Final D8000 DC Pro-Reference-over-ear headphones

• Planar magnetic headphones
• AFDS air damping system for perfect control
• Aluminum-magnesium housing for absolute resonance freedom
• Bass-enhanced tuning
• Two symmetrical cables
• Aluminum safety case
  
  

Reviews

The Final Audio D8000 DC Pro Edition Headphones exemplify a perfect blend of advanced technology, luxurious design, and exceptional auditory performance. With a focus on comfort, an expansive soundstage, and a balanced sonic signature, these headphones elevate the listening experience to new heights.

Whether you’re diving into the depths of an orchestral symphony or enjoying the latest album by your favorite artist, the D8000 DC ensures every sound resonates with clarity and richness.

For those seeking a top-tier audio experience, investing in the D8000 DC is a decision that promises to deliver hours of immersive enjoyment. Explore the nuances of sound with the D8000 DC and discover a fidelity level that transforms how you listen to music.

Final Audio D8000 DC Review - Major HiFi

Final D8000 DC & D8000 DC Pro – Highest-End for your ears

With the new D8000 DC and D8000 DC Pro, the Japanese manufacturer Final Audio further refines its best high-end headphones. "DC" stands for "Da Capo" – back to the beginning. That is exactly Final's approach: back to the roots to redefine sound.

The most important points in brief

• Both models rely on planar magnetic technology combined with the in-house Air Film Damping System (AFDS). This technology provides deeper, clearer bass and a balanced soundstage – with minimal distortion.
• The heart: an ultra-light aluminum diaphragm, developed for maximum precision and fast response – the key to an impressively detailed sound.

Although the technology is similar in both models, they differ in sound character:

• The D8000 DC is absolutely neutrally tuned and aimed at professional listeners who place the highest value on uncompromising balance.
• The D8000 DC Pro delivers a bit more bass without losing clarity. This makes it ideal for listeners who love powerful sound.

The scope of delivery includes high-quality cables with 4.4 mm and 4-pin XLR connectors. The Pro comes with a robust, silver-braided cable for best performance and durability. The Standard DC relies on a lightweight, functional cable made of optical fiber.

The details

Over seven years after the launch of the first D8000 – and after more than 2,000 units delivered – every central component has been reconsidered and newly designed. The core remains the planar magnetic driver technology with Final's further developed "AFDS" – the Air Film Damping System – which is now used in a revised form.

The hole diameter, division ratio, and pattern of the punched metal have been optimized, as well as the diaphragm structure itself, which is made from etched aluminum foil. This delicate, ultra-light construction allows extremely precise reproduction, reduces the moving mass by about one third, and completely dispenses with the otherwise usual glued coil wires.

Another significant change is the removal of the front magnet, which increases the sound guide's opening ratio by about 70% compared to the previous model. Combined with newly developed, breathable ear pads, this results in a more open sound image with noticeably extended treble range and at the same time fuller bass reproduction.

The ear pads themselves are now about 1.5 times thicker than the original D8000 and are made from a special fabric based on Washi – a Japanese paper material known for its dry feel, breathability, and durability.

The enlarged acoustic volume creates a deeper, more even room illumination in the midrange, which especially benefits voices and acoustic instruments. The headband is also made of the same durable materials and has been optimized for resistance to moisture and long-lasting comfort.

The housing of the D8000 DC consists of a highly precisely milled aluminum-magnesium alloy, which not only provides high structural rigidity – necessary to stabilize the sensitive driver system – but also protects against scratches with a leather-like surface coating. This finish is usually only used in high-quality camera housings.

The complete manufacturing takes place at Final's Japanese headquarters in Kawasaki. There, not only are the individual parts assembled, but the production equipment – including diaphragm molding machines and tension measuring devices – is also developed and manufactured in-house. This in-house production allows Final to precisely control every aspect of sound tuning and ensure the highest manufacturing quality. Additionally, the D8000 DC is designed for long-term use: almost all components are screwed in and can be easily replaced in case of repair – a rare feature in the high-end audio world.

Included are two high-quality, detachable cables: a 1.5-meter-long, black-sheathed OFC cable with a 4.4 mm 5-pin connector and a 3-meter-long XLR cable with a 4-pin connector – both with lockable 3.5 mm 2-pin outputs. The Pro's XLR cable comes in a silver braided version, the standard DC's in black. The cables are compatible with several Final models, including older D8000 and SONOROUS versions. The headphones are delivered in a robust security case that can be securely locked with a special key – ideal for transport and storage.

The sonic differences between the D8000 DC and the D8000 DC Pro Edition lie in the targeted adaptation to the human ear. While the standard DC offers a linear, balanced playback with fine resolution, the Pro version boosts the bass more at higher volumes – without losing detail fidelity in the treble range. Both models are clearly positioned in the high-end segment but differ subtly in their character. Which model fits better ultimately depends on personal listening preference.

Features and highlights

• Housing: Aluminum-magnesium alloy
• Driver: AFDS Planar Magnetic
• Cable: OFC cable
• Cable length: 4.4 mm/1.5 m, XLR/3 m (Pro: silver braided)
• Aluminum carrying case
  
  

Technical data

• Sensitivity: 90 dB/mW
• Impedance: 50 Ω
• Weight: 431 g