The Abyss Diana DZ is an intriguing headphone for several reasons. On one hand, it’s the most expensive and arguably the best iteration of the Diana series, but on the other hand, it raises questions about whether it stands as the best Abyss headphone overall. This headphone occupies what could be described as a “superposition” of characteristics being both luxurious and industrial, slim yet robust, comfortable for some while uncomfortable for others, and sounding extraordinary for certain users, but not for everyone. It is, in many ways, a paradox a combination of multiple traits existing simultaneously.
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Build Quality: Slim, Overbuilt, and Unmatched
When it comes to build quality, few manufacturers can rival Abyss. The Diana DZ stands out not just because of its premium materials but also due to its exceptionally slim design. Despite being as slender as a modern iPhone, this headphone maintains one of the toughest builds in the industry. The slimness of the design remains a feature that other manufacturers have struggled to replicate. Abyss backs this impressive craftsmanship with a 10-year warranty, an industry leading commitment that further reinforces the quality of the build.
For those with a particular taste in aesthetics, the Diana DZ offers various inlays, such as the abalone blue, which appears striking in person, and a Damascus gold variant. While these designs may be polarizing, they add a touch of luxury to the headphone’s industrial appeal. Some users may love the intricate inlays, while others may find them less appealing again, a reflection of the “superposition” nature of the Diana DZ.
Comfort: A User-Dependent Experience
Comfort, however, is a subjective experience with the Diana DZ. Some users find this headphone to be the most comfortable high end model available, while others may consider it the least comfortable they’ve ever encountered. For the reviewer, the Diana DZ fits comfortably with little need for adjustment, feeling lightweight and secure on the head. It’s important to remember that comfort with this headphone is entirely user dependent, and it may vary based on individual head shape and preferences.
Sound Quality: Resolution and Detail at the Forefront
Moving on to the most crucial aspect of any headphone sound quality. The Diana DZ excels in resolution, offering extraordinary clarity across all frequency ranges. Regardless of the pads you pair it with suede, leather, or hybrid the headphone remains one of the most detailed in the industry. However, some pads will affect the tonal balance, with the suede pads offering a warmer, more balanced sound, while leather and hybrid pads tend to brighten the sound.
Given the steep price tag of around $4,000, it’s highly recommended to invest in multiple sets of pads to explore various sound signatures and find the one that best suits your preference. This flexibility ensures you’re not locked into just one sound profile.
Mid-Range: A Strength for Vocal Clarity
The Diana DZ stands out for its ability to deliver exceptional clarity in the mid-range. Vocals, especially female vocals, are rendered with incredible precision, with clear separation between the vocalist and the rest of the mix. The frequency response is particularly tuned to enhance the presence of female vocalists, making the Diana DZ one of the best headphones for this purpose. Male vocals, on the other hand, are handled well but may not have the same level of depth compared to other Abyss models, like the Abyss 1266 or the Diana Phi.
Despite this, the DZ’s ability to reproduce clear, concise vocals is one of its defining characteristics. If you’re a fan of vocal heavy genres, especially those featuring female singers, the Diana DZ excels in delivering the nuances of their performance.
Comparison to Other Abyss Models and Competitors
While the Diana DZ offers impressive resolution and clarity, it’s important to note that other headphones, even within the Abyss lineup, may suit different preferences better. For instance, the Abyss 1266 may offer more dynamic bass impact and a warmer, more relaxed sound signature, which some listeners may prefer. The Diana DZ, however, surpasses the 1266 in terms of detail retrieval and resolution, making it the ideal choice for those who prioritize ultimate clarity.
Headphones like the Hifiman Susvara or the Audeze LCD-4 may offer comparable or better bass dynamics, but their detail and frequency response fall short when compared to the Diana DZ. The DZ’s ability to retrieve fine details in the soundscape and deliver an exceptional level of clarity is unmatched, making it a top contender in the ultra high end headphone category.
Bass: Not as Dynamic as Some Competitors
While the Diana DZ excels in resolution, its bass response leaves room for improvement. The bass lacks the dynamic slam found in other headphones, such as the Audeze LCD-4, which deliver a more powerful low end punch. That said, the bass on the Diana DZ remains detailed and clear, with texture that can be appreciated by those who prefer accuracy over sheer power. However, if deep, rumbling bass is a key factor in your headphone preference, the DZ may not meet your expectations.
Soundstage and Imaging: Precision Over Width
The Diana DZ’s soundstage is another area where opinions may vary. While the headphone delivers excellent imaging precision, the overall width of its soundstage is somewhat limited. The spatial characteristics of the sound are well defined, but they do not extend as wide as other headphones in the same price range. However, the precision with which the soundstage is defined within its boundaries is remarkable. For those who prioritize precise imaging over wide, expansive soundstage, the Diana DZ excels in delivering a focused listening experience.
Amplification Requirements: Push the Limits
To truly get the most out of the Diana DZ, you’ll need a powerful amplifier that can fully exploit its resolution and dynamic range. The WA24 amplifier, for example, provides an exceptional pairing with the Diana DZ, delivering clear, detailed sound. However, it’s an expensive option costing more than three times the price of the headphones themselves.
For a more budget friendly solution, a solid state amplifier like the Topping DX9 could also offer excellent performance, providing the clean, powerful output needed to make the most of the Diana DZ. While a lower end amp can still produce good sound, it will undoubtedly limit the headphone’s capabilities, resulting in a bottleneck that prevents it from performing at its best.
Article Summary
The Abyss Diana DZ is a headphone that caters to the audiophile who values resolution, detail, and clarity above all else. Its build quality, comfort, and sound quality are top notch, and while it may not excel in bass dynamics or soundstage width, its ability to extract and deliver information from your music is unparalleled. For those seeking a luxury headphone with industry leading resolution and impressive detail retrieval, the Diana DZ is an excellent choice. However, with its polarizing design and high price tag, it’s important to audition it before purchasing to ensure it aligns with your preferences. If you’re someone who craves ultimate detail and clarity in your music, the Abyss Diana DZ will undoubtedly impress.
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