Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Yamaha HPH-100B
An in-depth technical take on Yamaha’s on-ear closed-back headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Dynamic
- Supra-aural
- Closed back
- Impedance: 46 Ohm
- Frequency range: 20 – 20000 Hz
- Maximum input power: 1000 mW
- SPL: 103 dB
- 40 mm drivers
- Single-cable configuration
- Earcups have joints that rotate 90 degrees
- 2 m cable with 3.5 mm jack and 6.3 mm adapter
- Weight with cable: 148 g
- Colour: Black
Studio Log
| Available since | July 2015 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 361767 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | On-Ear |
| System | CLosed Back |
| Impedance | 46 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 20 Hz – 20000 Hz |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Replacable Cable | No |
| Marrone/Argento | Black |
| Sensitivity | 103 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Weight | 148 g |
Demo Footage
Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction
The Yamaha HPH-100B has been available since July 2015 as an affordable on-ear headphone with a closed-back design. Priced at £48, it aims to serve musicians and casual listeners seeking a functional, portable solution rather than high-end audiophile performance. This review focusses on its build, sound quality, and suitability for various uses based on detailed specifications and user feedback.
Design and Build Quality
The HPH-100B features an on-ear, supra-aural design weighing 148 grams including its cable, making it relatively lightweight. Its closed-back system utilises 40mm dynamic drivers to deliver sound. One practical aspect is the single-cable connection on the left earcup, which allows quick detachment and less cable tangling, beneficial for studio or field use.
The earcups rotate 90 degrees for compact, fold-flat storage, a useful feature for musicians transporting their gear. The cable is 2 metres long with a 3.5mm jack and a 6.3mm adapter for compatibility with a variety of devices.
However, the construction leans heavily on plastic, particularly the headband, which lacks padding and may feel uncomfortable during prolonged wear. The supple leather-like ear pads do not fully surround the ears, which some users have found uncomfortable over extended sessions. The thin cable has raised durability concerns, especially for outdoor and frequent use.
Practicality for Musicians
- Single-sided cable simplifies quick setups and pack-downs
- Rotating earcups enable easy storage in instrument cases
- Included adapter expands device compatibility
- Lightweight form reduces fatigue on the head and neck
Overall, while the build quality is modest and plastic-heavy, the design choices prioritise portability and ease of use for musicians on the go.
Sound Performance
With a frequency response spanning 20 Hz to 20 kHz and impedance of 46 ohms, the headphones perform well with typical consumer devices and light amplification. The sensitivity of 103 dB ensures sufficient loudness without taxing sources.
User feedback consistently notes that the sound signature is balanced but leans towards bass richness. This bass emphasis adds warmth but may not suit critical mixing where neutrality is preferred. Midrange and treble clarity remain adequate for monitoring instruments such as keyboards, guitars, and bass.
The closed-back design offers reasonable ambient noise isolation, allowing focused listening even in noisy environments. This isolation combined with the sound character makes the HPH-100B suitable for casual monitoring, composing, and general music enjoyment rather than professional studio mastering.
Listening Experience Highlights
- Warm, slightly bass-forward sound signature
- Clear midrange appropriate for instrument monitoring
- Good ambient noise rejection despite on-ear format
- Comfortable for short to medium sessions, less so for extended wear
Users report the sound quality surpasses expectations for the price, delivering enjoyable listening with a touch of colour and warmth rather than a clinical neutrality.
Limitations and Considerations
The lack of headband padding and the on-ear design can cause discomfort on the ears with long use. The attached cable’s thin gauge raises concerns about long-term durability, especially in demanding environments. Additionally, the overall plastic construction might not endure rough handling well.
The earcups’ compact size and on-ear fit may not suit all head shapes and ear sizes, occasionally causing pressure points.
For critical studio mixing or professional applications where detail and flat response are essential, these headphones might fall short compared to costly alternatives. Nonetheless, they serve well as budget-friendly backup or utility headphones, especially when connected to Yamaha instruments or mixers.
Conclusion
The Yamaha HPH-100B represents a practical, affordable choice from a reputable manufacturer for musicians needing reliable on-ear headphones with closed-back isolation. Its modest build and warm, slightly bass-forward sound make it suited to casual listening, instrument practice, and field monitoring. The rotating earcups and single-sided cable enhance portability, while the lightweight design reduces fatigue.
Though not designed for prolonged sessions or demanding professional use, this model provides strong value for under £50. For musicians requiring a dependable companion for quick setups and instrument monitoring, the HPH-100B achieves just that with a sound and comfort level appropriate to its price point.
