Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Fostex TH1100RPmk2
Detailed examination of Fostex’s TH1100RPmk2 open-back headphones design and features
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Spec Sheet
- Wired
- Circumaural
- Open-back design
- Magnetostatic
- Frequency response: 10 Hz – 40,000 Hz
- Impedance: 32 ohm
- Sensitivity: 100 dB (@ 1kHz, 1mW)
- Driver: RP planar magnetic
- Maple wood housing with Tade indigo blue colour treatment
- Ear pads made of silk protein artificial leather
- Headband made of sheepskin
- Detachable cable
- Two-sided cable configuration
- Low-oxygen copper cable (7N OFC)
- Cable length: 2 m
- Connection: Gold-plated 6.3 mm stereo jack
- Weight (without cable): 420 g
- Colour: Wood / blue
- Includes artificial leather bag and manual
Studio Log
| Available since | December 2025 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 633148 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Open |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 10 Hz – 40000 Hz |
| Adapter | No |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Wood / Blue |
| Max. SPL | 100 dB |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Jack(stereo) |
| Weight | 420 g |
| Replaceable Cable | Yes |
| Colour | Wood / Blue |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction to the Fostex TH1100RPmk2
Released in December 2025, the Fostex TH1100RPmk2 is a premium planar magnetic headphone distinguished by its unique blend of materials and design innovations. Positioned at a price point of £2,769, these headphones target discerning listeners seeking precision and craftsmanship. This analysis focuses purely on the technical specifications and design elements without subjective user impressions.
Design and Build Quality
The TH1100RPmk2 adopts an over-ear, open-back configuration, a format preferred in audiophile and studio environments for its natural soundstage characteristics. The housing features maple wood with a Tade indigo blue colour treatment, providing potentially influencing resonance and tonal qualities subtly due to wood’s acoustic properties.
The ear pads use silk protein artificial leather, designed to offer a balance between comfort and durability. The headband incorporates sheepskin, which typically provides softness and breathability, contributing to prolonged wear comfort during extended listening sessions. The overall construction weighs 420 grams excluding the cable, positioning the headphones as lightweight for their category.
Audio Specifications
- Driver Type: RP planar magnetic driver
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz to 40,000 Hz
- Impedance: 32 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 100 dB at 1 kHz, 1mW
- Maximum Sound Pressure Level (SPL): 100 dB
The planar magnetic driver technology utilises a thin diaphragm swept by magnetic fields to produce sound. This mechanism typically offers faster transient response, lower distortion, and detailed midrange reproduction. The extended frequency range of 10 Hz to 40 kHz exceeds the human audible spectrum, suggesting the capacity to reproduce subtle overtones and harmonics essential in high-resolution audio.
An impedance of 32 Ohms aligns the TH1100RPmk2 with compatibility to a broad range of sources, including portable and desktop digital audio players, without requiring an additional headphone amplifier. The sensitivity rating of 100 dB ensures efficient sound output with moderate input power.
Cable and Connectivity
The headphones feature a detachable two-sided cable made from low-oxygen copper (7N OFC), known for its high conductivity and resistance to corrosion. This detail is significant for preserving audio signal integrity over the 2-metre length cable. Connectivity utilises a gold-plated 6.3 mm stereo jack, standard for high-fidelity equipment, maximising contact quality and reducing signal loss.
Practical Considerations and Accessories
- Replaceable cable design offers the advantage of maintenance and potential upgrades, extending the product’s lifespan.
- Inclusion of an artificial leather carrying bag assists in protection and portability.
- The absence of adapters means flexibility for various equipment depends on the user’s existing setup or additional purchases.
Conclusion
The Fostex TH1100RPmk2 presents a technically robust headphone set aimed at enthusiasts and professionals valuing sound fidelity and refined build materials. Its planar magnetic drivers combined with a wide frequency response and efficient impedance provide a foundation for detailed and dynamic audio reproduction. The wooden housing and high-quality padding materials contribute to both acoustic properties and user comfort.
While the price reflects a premium positioning, the technical specifications justify its appeal for those prioritising sound precision, natural timbre, and durable construction. Absence of bundled adapters may necessitate additional investment depending on intended usage scenarios. Overall, the TH1100RPmk2 stands as a finely crafted option within the open-back headphone category for audiophiles equipped to leverage its capabilities.
