Compared to major brands like Sennheiser or Bose, V-Moda is a relative new company – having only been on the market for around 10 years - but is undoubtedly one of the top headphone brands. Even so, the company is making waves in the audio equipment scene, with headphones that are much sought after by casual listeners and audio professionals alike. The Crossfade LP is one of the company’s best sellers, counting world-renowned DJ Aviici amongst its users.
<<Latest customer reviews and prices of V-MODA Crossfade LP Headphones>>
Audio Performance
Whether you’re using them on the stage or on the streets, the Crossfade is a pair of headphones made for listening to music across all genres – thanks to their unique LP-Class ‘Live Play ‘sound signature. Boasting large 50mm dual-diaphragm drivers, they deliver with deep, vibrant bass, an organic mid-range and crystal clear trebles.
Inspired by DJs and the club scene, the headphones carry powerful bass that work well with electronic dance, techno and other bass-heavy tracks. They have a wider frequency response than most headphones on the market. While the human ear can usually detect sound between 20Hz to 20,000 Hz, the Crossfade LP’s range goes from as low as 5Hz to as high as 30,000 Hz – so even if you’re not hearing the notes, you’ll definitely feel them. Lows and highs certainly perform better than the mids, but the overall sound is well-balanced, although slightly lacking in detail.
With a sensitivity rating of 105dBs and 32Ohm impedance, users can play them with portable music devices, such as MP3s and smartphones, as well as home hi-fi systems. The volume goes up high with minimal distortion on the audio.
Although they have a closed back design, the soundstage on the Crossfade LP is surprisingly good, with accurate sound imaging. Users can even wear them for gaming purposes to accurately pinpoint locations such as direction of gunfire or enemy footfalls.
While they sound good enough on their own, the Crossfade LP does require some time to ‘break in’, in order for the headphones to get a flatter, more natural sound. Audio performance may vary depending on source, as they seem to perform to their maximum potential with very high quality audio formats such as FLAC, as well as when paired with an amplifier.
Design and Build
The Crossfade LP headphones are as sleek and stylish as they can get, sporting a metallic finish with a steampunk/cyberpunk feel.
They are circumaural (around-the-ear), which means that the pads cover the ears completely. This, coupled with a closed-back design, ensures better noise isolation so that users can enjoy their music in private. They also do a decent job at reducing ambient noise.
Their unique design is easy to spot from afar. Some distinguishing features include the material and the shape. Unlike many headphones on the market which are made from plastic, the Crossfade LP uses a heavy duty but lightweight metal frame, for a total weight of 9 ounces (excluding cables). Apart from being comfortable to wear for hours on end, the headphones are also very durable and can take a beating, thanks to the steel body. They also feature bold, hexagonal ear pads with rounded edges, which are covered in a soft, pleather material.
While the headband does not come with an adjustable mechanism for a customized fit, it is flexible enough for most head shapes and sizes. It is padded with the same material as the ear pads for maximum comfort.
Users are spoilt for choice when it comes to the colors, as they are equally futuristic. Choose from Black and Chrome, Gunmetal Black, Phantom Chrome, Pearl White or Rouge.
Additional Features
The Crossfade LP comes with two audio cables – one for basic stereo audio, and the other which includes in-line controls and a mic. The latter works with smartphones and tablets, allowing users to make and answer calls, control their music and adjust volume without having to fiddle with their gadgets. Both are detachable and braided with Kevlar-reinforced fabric, which will not snag or tangle easily. The cords end with gold-plated plugs with a standard 3.5mm jack.
When it comes to accessories, V-MODA is certainly generous. The hard-shell Exoskeleton case looks cool and edgy, with a flat shape that looks almost like an alien pod. Users will never need to worry about damaging their headphones when they keep them in this sturdy case. Zippered for safe storage, it also has a carabiner at the top and comes with a cleaning cloth. If users feel like switching up the look, there is an extra pair of gunmetal shields that can be swapped out from the originals on the sides of the headphones. Last but not least, the bundle includes a ¼ inch adapter for audio sources with larger sockets, making the headphones compatible with virtually any kind of device.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- High quality audio, heavy on bass but overall well-balanced
- Wide sound stage with accurate sound imaging
- Stylish and unique look
- Tough, solid construction
- Comfortable
- In-line controls with mic
- Portable
- Loads of accessories, such as cool carrying case
Cons
- Requires high quality audio source and amplifiers to truly shine
- Expensive
Verdict
There’s a reason why V-Moda is loved by the pros – they deliver exceptional audio performance, superb durability and toughness, as well as long-lasting comfort. Not to mention their unique and edgy look that will definitely get you some admiring stares on the subway. While they aren’t exactly cheap, these are a great investment for those looking to truly enjoy their music.
