Presonus HD9 Review

Are you searching for a pair of headphones that won’t break the bank but still deliver great sound?

Then look no further than the PreSonus HD9s. They’re like a breath of fresh air for your ears, enveloping you in their warm sound and comfortable memory foam earpads.

With their adjustable headband and excellent noise cancellation, they’re the perfect choice for recording in the studio.

Read on to find out if the HD9s are the right choice for you!

Key Takeaways

  • The PreSonus HD9 headphones offer an affordable price point and are comfortable to wear, making them a valid budget option for tracking.
  • The power and frequency response of the HD9 headphones are decent, with a frequency response of 10 Hz to 26 kHz and a warm sound signature. However, the sound can be inaccurate, with exaggerated low end and harsh treble, and a scooped midrange.
  • The build quality of the HD9 headphones is good, resembling the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x design. They feature memory foam earpads, roomy cups, and a 180-degree swivel for comfort. They are lightweight and adjustable for longer sessions.
  • The stability of the HD9 headphones is suitable for studio work, but they are not recommended for physical activities. The noise cancellation and isolation are good for tracking in the studio, but less effective for canceling low-end noise during a commute.

Power and Frequency Response

The PreSonus HD9 is a pair of headphones that offers an average power and frequency response of 3.0. It has a frequency range of 10Hz to 26kHz, allowing it to handle power of up to 100mW.

In terms of sound signature, the HD9 has a slightly V-shaped curve and is known for its warm sound. It has an exaggerated low end, which means that the bass frequencies are more pronounced, and a harsh treble. Some users may find that the midrange frequencies feel scooped, resulting in a less prominent sound in that range.

One limitation of the HD9 is that PreSonus has not released a frequency response graph for these headphones. This means that it is difficult to accurately judge the accuracy of the sound reproduction. However, despite this limitation, the HD9 is still considered a good choice for recording purposes.

Build Quality and Comfortability

The PreSonus HD9 headphones’ build quality and comfortability are impressive, given the price point. The design is reminiscent of the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x, featuring memory foam earpads and roomy cups that swivel 180 degrees. Comfort levels are high and they remain lightweight even for extended wear.

The comparison with other budget headphones is favorable, offering a good value for money. The Pros are a comfortable fit and build quality that can rival more expensive models, while the cons are the lack of detachable cable and sound leakage.

Stability and Noise Cancellation/Isolation

Continuing from the build quality and comfortability, the stability and noise cancellation/isolation of the PreSonus HD9 headphones are worth noting.

Noise cancellation effectiveness is good for recording purposes but less so for canceling low-end noise during commute.

Stability is acceptable for studio work, but not recommended for physical activities.

The non-detachable cable is also a factor that should be considered.

The HD9’s noise cancellation and isolation are decent for its price range, but there are better options available if you’re willing to spend more.

Accessories and Comparisons

When it comes to accessories, the PreSonus HD9 doesn’t include much, and it’s worth considering some alternatives before purchasing.

Pros and cons should be weighed when comparing the PreSonus HD9 to other headphones. The PreSonus HD9 comes with only the headphones, a 1/8 to 1/4-inch adapter, and warranty paperwork.

When comparing the PreSonus HD9 to Audio-Technica ATH-M40x, the ATH-M40x has exaggerated bass, but fuller midrange and smoother high end. Audio-Technicas offer superior sound quality, but can be more expensive.

Sony MDR-7506 offers better value for money and it’s more versatile for mixing and tracking.

The AKG K240 Studio headphones are more neutral and cheaper; they’re recommended over the PreSonus HD9.

Consider all the pros and cons before deciding on the value for money.

Sound Quality

Experiencing the sound quality of the PreSonus HD9 headphones can be a mixed bag.

When it comes to sound accuracy, they can be a bit hit-and-miss. While the bass and mids are present, they sometimes lack clarity and feel a bit muddy. The highs can be harsh and sibilant at times.

However, their soundstage performance is surprisingly good for a budget pair of headphones. The soundstage feels wide and open with a decent amount of depth and imaging.

While the sound quality isn’t perfect, it’s quite good for an inexpensive pair of headphones.

Target Audience

The PreSonus HD9 headphones are best suited for those who prioritize comfort over sound quality. Those seeking a budget-friendly option for recording quality should strongly consider the HD9.

Although the sound isn’t as accurate as alternative options, the comfort level of the headphones make up for it. The memory foam earpads provide a snug and comfortable fit, while the lightweight design is suitable for longer recording sessions.

Furthermore, the noise cancellation and isolation are sufficient enough for tracking in the studio. However, those looking for headphones to use in different settings may want to explore other options.

Final Verdict

Overall, the PreSonus HD9 headphones offer a comfortable fit at an affordable price, making them a valid budget option for tracking. They provide good noise cancellation but the sound is slightly inaccurate.

Comfortability is great, with memory foam earpads and adjustable headband, but the non-detachable cable limits its use for physical activities.

When compared to other headphones in the same price range, such as the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x and Sony MDR-7506, the PreSonus HD9 falls short in terms of sound quality and versatility.

However, if comfortability is a priority, the PreSonus HD9 is still a good option for tracking and recording.

Conclusion

The PreSonus HD9 headphones are a good budget-friendly option for recording in the studio. They’re comfortable, adjustable, and provide good noise cancellation.

The sound signature is warm with a slight V-shape curve, but the midrange is slightly scooped.

So if you’re looking for a good pair of headphones for tracking on a budget, the PreSonus HD9 are worth considering. They won’t break the bank and provide enough sound quality and comfortability for a great recording experience.

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