Ultrasone HFI 580

Ultrasone has made some recent moves to kick their headphone line into high gear and, judging by the HFI-580, their efforts are beginning to deliver results. Although never an easy feat within the closed-earcup headphone category, the HFI-580 model manages a clean, highly dynamic, brightly textured presentation that seems both decently accurate and musically involving. The soundstage imaging 'depth' compares favorably with similarly-priced open-backed headphones, albeit the overall room-sound expansiveness is not quite there versus reference-grade open cans despite Ultrasone's "natural surround sound" S-Logic technology -- which some listeners feel imparts a bit of hollow sound in certain spots. The solid isolation factor from the well-padded, full-size closed/sealed HFI-580 earcups should help to attenuate a respectable amount of ambient noise. For the DJ, recordist, musician, or music afficionado seeking a well-performing closed-earcup headphone with outstanding ergonomics & cosmetics, these are a definite step-up in every respect above the previous HFI-550 model.

The updated cosmetics of the HFI-580 are quite striking with a black-on-brushed-chrome-polymer color scheme that could be one of the hottest looks in the biz. These full-sized, sealed-back cans utilize a solid sliding headband construction for easy fit adjustments with plenty of padding in the right areas. The design also allows the earcups to fold up into the headband for storage in a narrow space (like inside your LP case or carry-on bag) and make a tidy lump for transit. The folding/swiveling earpads remain a favorite among professional DJs for mono mixing with one ear while on the fly. The earpads are cushioned with a comfortable foam padding covered in a quality soft black pleather. The single-sided headphone cord exits from the left earpiece and is terminated approximately 3 meters later with a stereo 1/8" (3.5mm) mini-plug attached to a screw-on 1/8" to 1/4" inch adaptor. A travel/storage pouch is also included in the HFI-580 packaging along with an Ultrasone demo instructional CD.