JM Audio XTC2 Carbon Megaverse Open Back Dynamic Headphone
Best open-back headphones for audiophiles seeking a customizable, natural soundstage.
Experience unparalleled audio with the JM Audio XTC Carbon Megaverse Open Back Dynamic Headphones. Crafted with beautiful cherry wood cups and a comfortable suspension headband, these headphones offer an audiophile-grade listening experience. They deliver a transparent sound signature with lush, euphoric qualities, excelling in detail retrieval and articulate vocal presentation. The manufacturer provides custom tuning options and includes five sets of interchangeable ear pads for personalized comfort and sound. These wired headphones are designed for discerning listeners seeking exceptional clarity and a natural soundstage.
$999.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
74
/ 6142
#74 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+70%
Above average
Driver
Dynamic
/ Dynamic
Who it's for
- Audiophiles seeking a spacious and holographic listening experience
- Listeners prioritizing long-term comfort during extended music sessions
- Critical listeners who value nuanced detail and fast transient response
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for entry-level or mid-range gear
- Commuters and office workers needing privacy and noise isolation
- Casual listeners without a dedicated high-power amplifier setup
Performance breakdown
Soundstage Transparency
Open-back architecture creates an expansive, airy, and remarkably natural listening environment.
Detail Retrieval
Micro-nuances in complex tracks are rendered with surgical, audiophile-grade precision.
Vocal Articulation
Mid-range performance delivers lush, intimate, and lifelike vocal presence.
Ergonomic Comfort
Suspension headband and multiple pad options ensure fatigue-free long-term listening sessions.
Customization Versatility
Extensive pad swapping and tuning options allow for a highly personalized signature.
Build Craftsmanship
Premium cherry wood cups offer a sophisticated aesthetic and robust structural integrity.
Key Specs
Driver
Dynamic
Impedance
32 ohms
Sensitivity
114 db
Weight
375 grams
Cable
2mm braided w/36 strand 26AWG high purity OFC, Litz structure
Connector Options
3.5mm or 4 pin XLR amp end
Earpad Compatibility
Fits 100mm pads, many up to 105mm
Style
Open-Back
Features
- Open-back design for natural soundstage
- Exceptional detail retrieval
- Articulate vocal presentation
- Comfortable suspension headband
- Includes five sets of ear pads
- Customizable sound tuning available
- High-purity Litz structure cable
- Transparent sound signature with lushness
What customers say
Owners consistently praise the JM Audio XTC2 Carbon Megaverse for its exceptional sound quality and premium construction. The audio tuning delivers an expansive soundstage, making music feel dynamic. Bass response is a standout, noted for being deep, textured, and impressively controlled across all genres. Midrange and treble maintain excellent clarity for a truly musical experience. Craftsmanship, highlighted by carbon fiber details, reinforces a high end feel and perceived durability. While this is a notable investment, users feel the distinctive sound signature and artisan quality offer substantial value for dedicated listeners seeking superior audio performance.
Know before you buy
The open-back design allows air to move through the cherry wood ear cups, which creates a wider, more natural soundstage compared to closed-back models. This design provides an airy, speaker-like presentation, though it does mean sound will leak out and ambient noise will be audible to you.
The five included sets of ear pads allow you to physically alter the sound signature and comfort level of the headphones. By changing the material and density of the pads, you can subtly shift the focus between bass response, vocal clarity, and overall soundstage width.
With an impedance of 32 ohms and a sensitivity of 114 dB, these headphones are relatively efficient and can reach high volumes with standard devices. However, using a dedicated DAC or amplifier will help you extract the full detail and dynamic range they are capable of producing.
Yes, JM Audio offers custom tuning options for these headphones. This allows you to work with the manufacturer to tailor the internal acoustic properties to better match your specific sound preferences.
At 375 grams, the XTC2 is designed with a suspension headband that effectively distributes weight across the top of your head. This design choice helps minimize pressure points, making them comfortable for extended listening sessions despite their solid wood construction.
The choice depends on your current amplifier setup. If you are using a standard portable device or a desktop headphone jack, the 3.5mm option is the standard choice, while the 4-pin XLR option is intended for balanced outputs on high-end desktop amplifiers.
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$999