Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Fostex T20RP-Mk3 Headphone
Technical evaluation of the Fostex T20RP-Mk3 open-back orthodynamic headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Ideal for home and hi-fi applications
- Open design
- Orthodynamic
- Circumaural
- Impedance: 50 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 92 dB
- Transmission range: 15 – 35000 Hz
- Max. Input level: 3000 mW
- Plug-in cable
- Weight: 315 g without cable
- Including 2 cables: 1 x 1.2 m length with 3.5 mm stereo cable and 1 x 3 m length with 6.3 mm stereo cable
Studio Log
| Available since | March 2016 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 382800 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Open |
| Impedance | 50 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 15 Hz – 35000 Hz |
| Adaptor | No |
| Replaceable Cable | Yes |
| Colour | Black |
| Max. SPL | 92 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Jack |
| Weight | 315 g |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
[META]In-depth test of the Fostex T20RP-Mk3 headphones covering sound quality, comfort, and build for home and hi-fi use.Introduction to the Fostex T20RP-Mk3
The Fostex T20RP-Mk3 is an open-back, over-ear headphone aimed at audiophiles and home studio users seeking detailed and accurate sound reproduction. Introduced in March 2016 and priced at £146, this model features orthodynamic transducers designed to cover an extensive frequency range from 15 Hz to 35 kHz. With an impedance of 50 ohms and a sensitivity of 92 dB, the T20RP-Mk3 requires a suitable amplifier to reach its full potential.
Design and Build Quality
Weighing in at 315 grams without cables, the headset strikes a balance between sturdiness and comfort. The all-black finish gives it a discreet appearance, while the circumaural earcups enclose the ears fully without excessive pressure. The open-back design allows sound to escape, reducing internal reflections and enhancing the sense of space.
The headphones come with two detachable cables: one 1.2-metre cable with a 3.5 mm stereo jack for computer connectivity, and a longer 3-metre cable featuring a 6.3 mm stereo jack suitable for hi-fi amplifiers. The plug-in cable system, however, employs a bayonet locking mechanism on the mini jack that some users find fiddly and prone to intermittent contact issues. Despite this, once secured, the connection is stable.
Sound Performance
The Fostex T20RP-Mk3 delivers a sound profile that favours accuracy over coloration. Bass response is punchy without being exaggerated, maintaining natural depth appropriate for home studio monitoring. The midrange is balanced and clear, while the treble extends crisply up to 35 kHz, providing ample detail without harshness.
This sonic character suits a variety of uses from music production to critical listening. Measurements confirm the wide frequency response and an input handling capability up to 3,000 mW supports transient dynamics well. For gaming, the spatial cues are precise, allowing effective localisation of in-game sounds without the need for software processing.
Comfort and Usage Considerations
The comfort level is generally good, although the thin ear pads may cause mild discomfort during extended listening sessions exceeding two hours. The pads can be replaced or upgraded, a factor welcomed by users looking to tailor the fit. The headphone’s open design prevents the vacuum effect common in closed headphones, making it suitable for those sensitive to pressure build-up.
Users report the necessity of powering the T20RP-Mk3 with more amplification than typical onboard sound cards can provide. An external sound interface or dedicated amplifier is recommended to extract the best audio quality and volume levels. This is crucial to achieve the resolution and detail the drivers offer.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Strengths
- Accurate and natural sound reproduction with good dynamic range
- Lightweight and secure circumaural design
- Detachable cables included for versatile connectivity
- Open-back design providing spacious sound staging
- Weaknesses
- Thin earpads potentially uncomfortable during long sessions
- Bayonet jack locking system can cause contact problems
- Requires external amplification beyond basic onboard sound cards
Conclusion
The Fostex T20RP-Mk3 is a well-engineered headphone for users prioritising precise and natural audio reproduction within home and hi-fi environments. Its strengths lie in the detailed sound, open design, and build quality, while comfort considerations and the cable system represent minor drawbacks. Given its price point, the T20RP-Mk3 stands out as a compelling option for audiophiles willing to provide sufficient amplification and consider accessory upgrades such as improved ear pads.
