Get ready for a sonic adventure with Sendy Audio's Egret headphones, where ancient craftsmanship meets futuristic technology! These headphones are a game-changer for audiophiles and studio pros, but at a premium price.
Sendy Audio introduces the Egret, an open-back planar magnetic headphone masterpiece. While the $799/£799 price tag may raise some eyebrows, the Egret offers a unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and cutting-edge engineering. It's not your average budget buy, but it's a serious contender for audio enthusiasts seeking something special.
The heart of the Egret is a custom-designed planar magnetic driver, measuring 98 x 84mm. But here's where it gets fascinating: the diaphragm is crafted from a nano-scale composite, thinner than a bacterium! This extreme precision allows for lightning-fast transient response and crystal-clear sound across the frequency range.
I had the pleasure of testing the Egret for a week, and the bass performance blew me away. It rivals the Denon D5200s, a closed-back headphone renowned for its powerful bass. From the punchy upper bass in Donald Fagen's Morph the Cat to the well-represented sub-bass in Hans Zimmer's Why So Serious?, the Egret delivers an immersive experience.
And when it comes to the treble, the Egret shines. It passes the Billie Jean treble test with flying colors, taming the bright mix while maintaining a balanced and non-fatiguing sound. There's a hint of recess in the airy treble, creating a unique sonic signature.
The midrange is where things get interesting. Some frequencies in the mids seem slightly recessed compared to reference headphones like the HEDDphones D1. This can make backing vocals sound boxy at times, but the overall instrument separation is impressive. The sound is warm and inviting, but it's not as neutral or realistic as the D1.
The Egret's handcrafted housings are a work of art, made from natural solid wood with unique grain patterns. This attention to detail extends to the manufacturing process, where a proprietary technique deposits ultra-fine aluminum circuitry onto the diaphragm, minimizing distortion and maximizing resolution. The result is an 'effortlessly open soundstage' that audiophiles crave.
With a frequency response of 8Hz to 40kHz, the Egret goes beyond human hearing limits. Its 38Ω impedance and 103dB sensitivity make it easy to drive from various audio sources. The ergonomic headband and soft leather earpads ensure comfort, although the 420g weight is heavier than some dynamic driver models.
Sendy Audio describes the Egret's sound as full-bodied, balanced, and organic, with deep bass, transparent mids, and refined treble. This tuning is a dream come true for creatives and audiophiles alike, offering accuracy and musicality.
One standout feature is the premium cable. Unlike basic cables found in similar products, the Egret includes a detachable 1.8m cable with a triple-composite design. It combines Furukawa Oxygen-Free Copper, silver-plated copper, and gold-plated copper strands for optimal signal transmission. The graphene-reinforced PVC jacket adds flexibility and durability.
The cable's 2.5mm balanced connectors, along with the included 4.4mm and 3.5mm adapters, ensure compatibility with a wide range of audio gear.
Sendy Audio's Egret is a compelling choice for those who appreciate both sonic excellence and unique design. However, it enters a competitive market with established brands like Audeze, HiFiMan, and Dan Clark Audio. The Egret's price point positions it against respected models like the Audeze LCD-2 Classic, sparking debates among audio enthusiasts.
So, is the Egret worth the investment? For those who value both technical prowess and artistic craftsmanship, it's a tempting proposition. But in a crowded market, how does it truly stand out? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
