Abyss has built a revered legacy within the audiophile community by consistently producing high-end headphones that marry cutting-edge innovation with uncompromising sound quality. Their latest release, the JOAL (Jack of All Listening), aspires to redefine planar magnetic headphone performance. Melding advanced engineering with Abyss’ signature design philosophy, the JOAL is crafted to deliver exceptional detail retrieval, impactful bass response, and an expansive soundstage. After thoroughly evaluating this flagship model, we present a comprehensive review covering the unboxing experience, build quality, technical specifications, and in-depth sound analysis.
Unboxing Experience
The Abyss JOAL arrives in packaging that immediately reflects its premium stature.
- Abyss JOAL High-Performance Headphone
- Pillow Top Ultrasuede Ear Pads (pre-installed)
- Black Protective Shell Case with Velvet Interior
- 2-meter (6.6 ft) Premium 16-Core Super Soft Cable with 4.4mm Balanced Termination
- Quick Start Instruction Card
Each component is impeccably designed, from the velvety ultrasuede ear pads to the supple, high-quality cable. The presentation underscores the level of care and craftsmanship Abyss invests in its products.
Design and Comfort
The JOAL seamlessly carries forward the design language seen in the Diana series, showcasing a sleek, industrial aesthetic. Its earcups feature a subtle wave pattern, finished in a sophisticated matte black that catches the light in understated elegance. Constructed with precision CNC-machined aluminum, the headphones weigh 327 grams without pads and 390 grams with them attached.
Ergonomics are equally impressive. The headband’s adjustable mechanism, combined with plush earpads and moderate clamping force, ensures a secure yet comfortable fit. Listeners can indulge in extended sessions without experiencing fatigue, a testament to Abyss’ meticulous attention to comfort.
Tech Specs
- Drivers: Custom Abyss JOAL 63mm Planar Magnetic
- Impedance: 30Ω
- Sensitivity: 93dB/mW
- Frequency Response: 5Hz – 55kHz
- Distortion: 0.03% THD (average)
- Weight: 327g (without pads), 390g (with pads)
Sound Performance
Soundstage & Imaging
The JOAL’s soundstage breaks free from conventional headphone boundaries, offering an impressively three-dimensional listening experience. Instrument separation is immaculate, with pinpoint imaging that allows every sound to be placed with surgical precision. The resulting presentation is wide, layered, and remarkably natural.
Bass
Bass reproduction is both powerful and controlled. Sub-bass reaches subterranean depths without overpowering the midrange, while mid-bass is clean and articulate. The texture and detail within the low end allow listeners to distinguish subtle differences between synthetic basslines and acoustic instruments.
Midrange
The midrange is a highlight, exuding warmth and lifelike realism. Vocal performances are rendered with breathtaking clarity, and instruments possess rich timbral accuracy. Even in densely arranged tracks, the JOAL maintains a pristine separation between individual elements.
Treble
Treble response is smooth yet highly detailed. While the highs may seem slightly reserved upon initial listening, proper amplification unveils their full potential. High-frequency nuances, such as cymbal decays and string overtones, are presented with finesse and airiness, contributing to the headphone’s overall sense of openness.
Amplification & Pairing
With an impedance of 30Ω and a sensitivity rating of 93dB/mW, the JOAL performs best when paired with a capable amplifier. While portable players with robust balanced outputs can drive the headphones, desktop setups reveal their full dynamic capabilities. Amplifiers known for current delivery, such as Class A designs or hybrid tube models, further enhance the JOAL’s sonic characteristics.
During testing, the Chord MOJO 2 provided adequate output but required near-maximum volume. In contrast, the Hifiman Goldenwave Serenade V2 effortlessly delivered ample power, highlighting the importance of pairing the JOAL with a high-quality source.
Summary
The Abyss JOAL exemplifies planar magnetic technology at its finest, catering to listeners seeking both analytical precision and musical immersion. Its adaptability across genres, coupled with a luxurious design and impeccable comfort, positions it as a flagship offering in the high-end headphone market. Though demanding in terms of amplification, the rewards are substantial once properly driven.
For those in pursuit of a true reference-level listening experience, the Abyss JOAL stands as a worthy investment, capable of uncovering the most intricate details in any recording.
The Abyss JOAL is available now at Audio46.
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