I’ve tested some V-MODA headphones but none of them really satisfied me. The V-MODA Crossfade Wireless over-ear headphones were released in late 2015 and it’s just received an upgrade lately. However, the first generation is not discontinued, it even becomes an attractive option since the price is lower now. Let’s check it out.
Unboxing
Design & Features
I was quite surprised when unboxing the product. The box is much bigger than the ones of other V-MODA headphones. There are the headphones, an Exoskeleton carrying case, a carabiner clip, an audio cable, a 1/4″ adapter, and a USB cable.
Similar to other V-MODA headphones, the Crossfade Wireless retains a beautiful design and an amazing build quality. We still have replaceable shields on the outside of the 2 earcups, you can 3D print your own shields with a unique design and materials.
The headphones feature dual-diaphragm 50mm drivers, similar to the Crossfade M-100, however, their footprint is a lot larger since the earcups are unfoldable. They are not equipped with the Cliq-Fold function as seen on the M-100 or the new Crossfade 2 Wireless. Therefore, the carrying case is quite bulky and not ideal for portable usages.
Since these are Bluetooth headphones, there are a few changes here. We can see the volume up/down, and a multi-function button on the right earcup, along with a hidden microphone and a power switch.
Although the drivers have the same size and earpads use the same materials as my previous V-MODA headphones, somehow I feel more comfortable wearing these ones during extended listening sessions. The battery life is also impressive at over 10 hours, so I don’t need to recharge them in a whole week.
Audio Quality
I’ve never had a doubt about the design of V-MODA headphones but their sonic characteristics couldn’t satisfy my ears. It was always a boomy sound with the lack of details and soundstage. When I heard that the Crossfade Wireless headphones tune their drivers based on the Crossfade M-100 signature sound, I was quite disappointed.
Fortunately, they don’t sound the same. Obviously, M-MODA made some changes to refine the sound. Now, it is not just a boomy bass with muddy mids. Instead, the bass is still boosted significantly but not that overstated and it is no longer dominating the other pitches. Now I can feel more power in the mids and the treble is also more extended over the M-100. Therefore, my ears are no longer fatigued after wearing the headphones continuously in an hour. Overall, this could be the most neutral sounding headphones by V-MODA, most people will enjoy the strong bass, the clear mids, and a more present treble. Besides, the soundstage is improved and you totally can enjoy your music with the closed-back headphones.
The Crossfade Wireless is truly among the best V-MODA headphones on the market; they are among the best options for DJs or bass lovers. However, this is still not a good option for audiophiles and there are actually better sounding headphones for lower prices.
Conclusion
Pros
- Sleek design
- Good battery life
- Sound quality is improved dramatically
Cons
- Bulky
- Expensive
Although the Crossfade Wireless has received a price discount after a new version is released, they are still out of budget of most average consumers. If you’re not a die-hard V-MODA fan, you totally can find a good alternative for less than $200. They might not have the same gorgeous design but the sound quality is quite similar.
Buy V-MODA Crossfade Wireless Headphones on Amazon
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