Fostex T50RP mk3 Review
Open-Back Studio Monitor Headphones
Introduction
In this article, we delve into a detailed analysis of 7,811 user reviews from various languages worldwide to examine the Fostex T50RP mk3. This analysis is performed by the RR artificial intelligence and updated daily with newly submitted reviews. The RR AI utilizes a complex algorithm to first scrutinize user reviews for credibility, filtering out unreliable ones. It then proceeds to dissect and evaluate the valuable insights within these reviews, providing users with ratings regarding the features of this product. Based on these assessments, users can make informed decisions about whether this product is suitable for them or not.
Ratings Based on Features
These results are a summary of user reviews of the Fostex T50RP mk3. For example, 91% of 1,354 users who have commented on the Sound quality of the Fostex T50RP mk3 have given positive feedback.
Highlighted Customer Reviews
Showing 1 to 20 of 28 Reviews
Phenomenal headphones at a ridiculously low price!
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
First, as others here have stated, you MUST have a good amp/DAC to properly power these very inefficient headphones! Don't buy them expecting to simply plug them into your phone, tablet, or any other portable device and be able to get a lot of volume. I'm driving mine with the Swiss Army knife of portable amps/DACs which is the awesome Creative E5. All I do is flip the switch to the 120-600 ohm side and I haave plenty of power to drive these beasts easily. Second, as some have stated in many others areas across the internet, you should definitely replace the stock ear pads. You want to try and keep your ears as close to the drivers as you can to not risk losing much sound. To achieve not losing much or any of the sound I highly recommend replacing the stock pads with a pair of the very comfortable Shure HPAEC1540 alcantara pads. Not only do they look great, they are very comfortable for all day listening. Third, as others have also stated, you may want to get a better 3.5mm audio cable. To me, there's nothing wrong with the supplied shorter orange cable because I only wear the T50RP mk3 at my desktop computer. My Creative E5 is only a couple feet away from where I sit. There's also a longer black cable that I didn't even need to try so I put it back in the box. Last, the sound you get from these is very true and clean. In other words, they are good for critical production work because you'll be able to hear imperfections in your mixes. This is the type of headphones I prefer because I don't like any boosted frequencies. I want to hear audio the way it is meant to sound. With a good amp/DAC and an ear pad replacement, I can't recommend these enough! ... More
Best headphones I've heard for less than $
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
Amazing sound, I believe this is the best sound you can find for less than $.I went to an audiophile show where you can listen to a large number of headphones, $ - $ range.This headphone offers fantastic high, mid, bass. It is mostly closed, so it is awesome for the office (very little sound leakage or interference). The downside is the sound stage is not as wide as an open construction.Nonetheless, out of all the headphones I auditioned, this one was heads and shoulders above the competition, easily until around the $ range.I am not comfortable spending that much on my own enjoyment, so I was ecstatic to hear the sound this headphone produces for $.I use an ifi Nano dac/amp combo and would recommend a headphone amp. I don't think you will enjoy this set without an amp. The ifi Nano drives this just fine and really delivers.I will be going through my whole music collection to hear bits I was missing. :)THANK YOU FOSTEX! ... More
Amazing... If you have an amp.
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by Steve on B&H Photo Video
These headphones have a long history for being amazing in vocal clarity. The MK3 version is a spectacular update to this line. They're bright, exciting, and give the sound a 3D feeling that wraps around you. Comparing them to much more expensive offerings from HiFiMAN and Audeze, you'll be blown away at how much more 'alive' the T50rp MK3 sound. There is also a wealth of information on the internet on how to modify and tune the sound beyond the stock configuration. It's certainly not necessary, but if you're the kind of person who likes to tinker with things, these are very easy to experiment with and mod. There is also currently a $50 rebate - making these a steal at $109. I suggest spending that money you save on better earpads from Shure like the 1540 or 1840. The fine print... These are for professional use, and as such, they are VERY hard to drive. If you don't already have a good amplifier, there other headphones that'll serve you better than the MK3s. They are not intended to plug into your phone or an un-amplified headphone port like typical headphones. On the go, the Fiio e17K Alpen barely pushes them loud enough. I recommend something more powerful than that for mobile use, as well as a good DAC+AMP for home use. I use a JDS Element to power these at home, but there are tons of more popular brands B&H offers that are plenty powerful enough to drive these, or any other power-hungry planar-magnetic headphones. ... More
Seriously Good Headphones, Seriously Good Deal
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by Emper0rKen on B&H Photo Video
When MrSpeakers said he wasn't going to continue making the Mad Dog headphones anymore b/c the Mk3's essentially fixed the issues I knew I had to try them out. The Mk3's are very comfortable w/ good clamp and relatively light weight. The stock pads can get a little awkward after long listening periods (the shure 1540 pads or brainwavs hybrids are supposed to be choice upgrades). Stock cables are kinda strange as well, there are better cables that will fit past the locking mechanism. Sound is great, not skull crushing bass but very quality, quick, tight bass. Mids and Highs are full and accurate. Sound stage is ok, not like full open headphones but imaging is nice. I use mine at work paired with a Micca Origen, they can be powered with mobile devices but there is a noticeable difference when used in an appropriate setup. As I've listened to mine I'm not sure if they are getting better if I'm just getting more used to them (its weird I've never had a headphone get better like these are). 10/10 would recommend ... More
Not worth the purchase unless you have an Amp
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by Omaru on B&H Photo Video
Purchased these semi open headphones because I wanted newer better headphones for mixing music. FAIR WARNING you need a headphone amp if you're gonna use these for professional use. For causal listening on music that's already mastered and limited then the volume goes up to a decent level even on an iPhone. Aside from the pro which is amazing audio quality, there are many cons. 1. Need a headphone amp! $100-150 for a decent amp. 2. The amp situation makes these headphones immobile. Unless you like carrying extra equipment with you. 3. Not foldable. 4. The wire gives some static sometimes and you have to readjust it where it connects. 5. AMP! Unless you already have an amp, I see very little reason to pay $300 for headphone and amp for a very small increase in sound quality which will usually not make a difference cause of MP3s. ATH-M50x are worth more for less. ... More
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Best headphones that I have heard for the money value.
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by One-Eyed Ghoul on B&H Photo Video
These headphones are by far the best sounding headphones that I have owned. The only other thing about them right out of the box that I wasn't pleased with was the ear pads which feel very uncomfortable after extended periods of time in use, as well as the cable personally for me the cable that it comes with not the 1/4 cable but the regular 3.5m one was too short, but I replaced it with the V-Moda Extended audio cable. The headphones that I came from before this was the Sennheiser HD598 and there was a big difference for me there, these headphones (Mk. III's) have the most amazing sounding sub-bass that I've never really heard out of headphones but I'm assuming that it's from being a orthodynamic pair of headphones. Also I love the way that these headphones look. TL;DR: You will not be disappointed with these headphones. ... More
Best Headphones
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by JoseRoehl d. on B&H Photo Video
The Best affordable planar magnetic headphones I have heard so far. Period. Great imaging, spectacular clarity, punchy low end. Really characterful! Very comfortable padded headband design that doesn't put pressure on your head, right amount of caliper pressure with stock ear pads that masks weight of headphones. Distinctive looks. Great that it comes with 2 detachable locking cables and a lot of aftermarket cables fit with T50RP Mk3.
Very Satisfied
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by Howard on B&H Photo Video
I mix as a hobby and wanted the best headphones I could afford. After reading reviews, I decided to go with the Fostex RP series and specifically the T50RP due to its flat frequency response characteristics. The $50 rebate easily made it the best value for my needs. After using it for a couple of weeks, I am very pleased with the quality of sound. The previous headphones I used where the Superlux HD662. The HD662s are overly bright, to say the least and the Fostex is a significant improvement, much more accurate. After I get to know the Fostex, I'll have a tool that will hopefully allow me to create improved mixes. Especially for the money, I don't think you could go wrong with these. Just choose the RP model that has the frequency characteristics you're looking for. ... More
Excellent value for entry level planar headphones!!!
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by Headphone Junkie on B&H Photo Video
Excellent entry into planar headphones for audiophiles and music lovers alike. Sound is relatively neutral with a bit of emphasis on treble. Benefits from a good amp to drive them properly. Build quality is on point for this price point. The stock pleather pads are pretty thin but not uncomfortable. The stock pads make these more of an on ear headphone. Luckily, they are swappable to increase comfort. The modding community for these headphones is immense. Would definitely recommend to anyone getting into audio.
Best Headphones Period !
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by Drew Cruz on B&H Photo Video
I purchased these headphones due to the fact that I've been one of those apple headphone users my whole life and my friends would brag about these to me non-stop saying how incredible they were, so i decided to order a pair and while I'm obviously no audiophile they sound incredible!!! They got here very fast, they weren't damaged in any way, they sound crazy amazing..... You cant lose going through with this purchase (:
Great bang for the buck
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by jj69rr on B&H Photo Video
These are a great introduction to Planar Magnetic headphones. They're good - if a little uncomfortable out of the box, but with a little modding - new pads, a bit of modelling clay on the baffle plates - they sound amazing. They are pretty no frills - stock earpads are super thin, and the cables they come with are..... unusual...., and they don;t come with any kind of case (which is fine, that would just make them more expensive) but the sound for $ is top notch. Not much info out there on modding the Mk3 compared to the Mk2, but adding modelling clay to the rear of the baffle plate really makes these sing. Tough to drive - recommend a headphone amp. Not really for portable use unless you have a portable amp. ... More
Amazing Sound at an Amazing Price!
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
After watching Zeos Pantera's incredibly positive review of these headphones on YouTube, I decided to try a pair myself. What an incredible bargain! These are the clearest sounding headphones I own, with very good bass, as well as excellent midrange and non fatiguing treble. Throw in the fact that they are planar magnetic, and you won't find a better value anywhere. Highly recommended!
I'm in love
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by M. Battistella on B&H Photo Video
Just can't take it from my ears. The Fostex T50RP Mk III offers an incredible sound that goes far beyond its price. It requires a good DAC and AMP to reach its best, but once you put its planar-magnetic drivers to work, the best of your favorite music will blast your eardrums with joy. For a sweet upgrade, buy it along with Shure Alcantara Replacement Ear Pads For The Srh1540, and your T50RP will be feeling soft like a baby's butt. That's it: certainly one of the best investments I've made in headphones so far.
Great sound but pads need to be replaced
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
The sound quality is amazing. However be prepared to swap out pads. The stock pads are super uncomfortable, they're like flap jacks. But once you swap them out, they're golden. It's very easy to swap out, you can just pull them off without blinking an eye. Personally, I use the Shure 1540 pads which are some of the most comfortable pads around. After the mod, I have trouble deciding between my HD600's and the MK3's. TL;DR Buy new pads and you'll have an awesome sound experience.
Very Nice
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by Jonathan on B&H Photo Video
Bought these when they were on sale & I'm very happy with them. If you like tinkering with things these are great, lots of different mods you can do to change the sound. AFAIK these are the cheapest Planar Magnetics so if you wanted to try them out you can't go wrong with these. Stock pads are subpar, I'd recommend new ones.
Sound Quality is awesome!
Fostex T50RP mk3 Semi-Open Studio Headphones
Reviewed by Markus A. on Reverb
Great out of the box! Comfortable to me! Sound quality is awesome! Will be mixing on these for a long time! I don't want anything else now! I suggest a headphone amp though, one with good quality. Besides that, i'm pleased! No need to mod in my opinion. Use it how its intended and sit back and enjoy the frequency
Amazing Clarity and Sound Detail
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
only negative is the sound is so detailed, some of your old favorites will sound like boo boo. you will hear all the flaws in the recording, amps buzzing, noise gates turning on and off, etc... also, go ahead and delete your entire mp3 collection as it is now worthless.
Simply amazing!
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by Swavo on B&H Photo Video
Pros: Tight low end, crisp highs and punchy mids! Best set of headphones I've ever had! Cons: The only con for some folks is, you'll need a headphone amp. A laptop, desktop or cell phone do NOT have enough power alone to drive these headphones. I use the MICCA Origen+ External USB DAC/Amp and it's a perfect fit!
Studio favorite
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed by Michael on B&H Photo Video
If your music sounds better through your headphones than anywhere else, you need new headphones. These have honest, uncolored sound and wide frequency response. Musicians love them for tracking live in the studio: bass players, drummers & guitarists alike. Even triangle players, who are very picky. When it sounds good in these, it it good. Also great for late-night editing & rough mixing.
Very satisfied
Fostex RPmk3 Series T50RPmk3 Stereo Headphones (Semi-Open Type)
Reviewed on B&H Photo Video
I had an ancient pair of Fostex T-20's that I used in my home studio that finally fell apart. The T50RP-mk3's I bought to replace them have the flat/transparent mid-range I prefer, and are significantly more comfortable than the old T-20's. No complaints so far.
