Steven Slate Audio VSX Platinum Edition: detailed listening test

Customer Review Summary

Introduction to the VSX Platinum Edition

The Steven Slate Audio VSX Platinum Edition is a closed-back, over-ear headphone system released in November 2023. Priced at £349, it targets music producers and audio engineers needing accurate mixing tools in untreated rooms or limited spaces. The package pairs physically precise headphones with a sophisticated modelling plug-in to simulate various listening environments and stereo systems.

Technical Specifications

• Design: Closed-back, over-ear headphones in black with a lightweight build of 250 grams
• Driver System: Hybrid beryllium driver tuned for linear impulse response
• Impedance: 37 Ohms, suitable for various audio interfaces
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz
• Maximum SPL: 98 dB
• Cables and Connectors: Replaceable 2 m straight cable with 3.5 mm mini-jack and 6.3 mm adapter included
• Software: Integrated binaural modelling plug-in operating via the DAW mix bus or as standalone, offering multiple professional listening environments

Unique Features and Software Integration

What distinguishes the VSX Platinum Edition is the combination of headphones with a bespoke modeling plug-in. This plug-in simulates renowned studios and sound systems binaurally, creating the impression of mixing in high-end control rooms or listening on various consumer or professional playback systems. Switchable presets include:

• Private Mix-Room by Steven Slate
• NRG Studio, Zuma Studio, Archon Studio, Sonoma Studio
• Mastering rooms such as Mike Deans and Howie Weinberg’s studios
• Various consumer environments like luxury SUVs, electric car sound systems, and nightclub setups
• Replication of various well-known studio and consumer headphones

This level of environment simulation aims to remove room acoustics as a variable, particularly useful for producers who lack a well-treated monitoring space.

Build Quality and Comfort

The VSX headphones exhibit solid build quality with practical design choices. While not featuring cable-lock protection mechanisms like some competitors, the construction is robust and the cable is replaceable for longevity. Users report the headphones as comfortable to wear for extended sessions, with minimal ear fatigue or sweating thanks to the breathability of the earpads despite their closed-back design. However, some users may find the fit tighter compared to open-back models, which is necessary for accurate sound isolation integral to the technology.

Sound Quality and Mixing Accuracy

Out of the box, the VSX delivers a tonally neutral, dynamic performance that outperforms many traditional closed-back headphones. The beryllium hybrid drivers ensure a linear impulse response, providing clarity especially in the low end and midrange critical for mixing tasks. Without the plug-in active, the headphones still present an excellent flat response suited for tracking vocals or general listening.

Upon engaging the modelling software, the spatial characteristics of the sound shift dramatically. Users report a striking sensation similar to mixing in a professional studio. The simulation enables precise placement and balance decisions by exposing frequency clashes and providing reliable stereo imaging. Several users noted significant improvements in their ability to balance low end and identify problem frequencies otherwise masked by their untreated rooms or neighbour noise constraints.

System Requirements and User Experience

The headphones operate seamlessly with any device capable of driving 37 Ohms impedance cans. Integration within a DAW involves placing the VSX plug-in on the master output bus. The setup is straightforward once completed, though first-time users may require patience to master the software’s full potential. The calibration process includes inputting serial number data for precise headphone tuning. The plug-in can also run in standalone mode for listening outside a DAW environment, delivering consistent spatial effects.

Limitations and Considerations

A few users cite minor comfort issues for very long sessions compared to open-back alternatives, which is due to the closed-back design necessary for accurate binaural simulation. Additionally, some report difficulty with voice chorus artefacts in certain presets, which may improve over time via software updates. Material quality and perceived plastic thinness compared to some premium headphones is another point of critique, recommending careful handling. The complexity of software login and updates has been frustrating for a minority.

Summary and Verdict

The Steven Slate Audio VSX Platinum Edition offers a unique, highly effective solution for mixing in rooms with poor acoustic treatment or limited space. By combining a quality headphone driver system with advanced binaural modelling of multiple listening environments, it empowers producers to make decisions that translate well across different playback systems. The sound quality is excellent both with and without the plug-in, and the added spatial dimension is a genuine asset for detailed mix work.

Comfort and build are solid though not exceptional for all-day use, and some getting used to the software is expected. The price point of £349 reflects the specialised nature of the product and the technology it incorporates. For bedroom producers, mixing engineers, and mastering professionals without access to ideal monitoring environments, the VSX Platinum Edition represents a significant advancement in headphone mixing tools and is highly recommended.

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