STAX SR-X1

STAX SR-X1 Open-Back Electrostatic Headphones

The SR-X1 is an open-back hi-fi headphone from the renowned Japanese brand STAX, a specialist in electrostatic headphones. This model serves as an affordable entry point into the world of STAX electrostatic headphones.

Electrostatic Technology

The SR-X1 utilizes STAX’s exclusive medium-sized circular push-pull electrostatic transducers with a rear opening. In an electrostatic speaker, a very thin and lightweight diaphragm is suspended between two static electrodes. When an audio signal is applied to the electrodes, a variable electrostatic field is created, causing the diaphragm to vibrate and produce sound. This principle allows for an extended frequency response with extremely low distortion and high speed.

Innovative Sound Production

At the heart of the SR-X1 is its revolutionary sound production unit, housed directly within the circular structure of the ear cups. This innovative placement minimizes interference, ensuring precise and focused sound output. The unit features open slots at the back, with variable thickness and smooth curved shapes, allowing sound waves to flow outward smoothly and reducing distortion.

STAX has also implemented a newly designed rack system in the SR-X1, ensuring a better fit and stability during use. The integration of metallic materials in the construction of the ear cups helps to dampen unnecessary resonances, further enhancing the clarity and purity of the audio experience.

Technical Specifications

The SR-X1 boasts impressive technical capabilities, solidifying its position as a top-tier electrostatic headphone. With a wide frequency response range of 7 to 41,000 Hz, these headphones can reproduce a broad spectrum of audible frequencies, from deep, rich bass to crystal-clear highs.

The SR-X1’s acoustic pressure sensitivity is rated at 101 dB/100 Vr.m.s at 1 kHz, ensuring that the headphones can deliver ample volume and dynamic range without requiring excessive amplification. The SR-X1’s bias voltage is set at DC 580 V, which is the optimal level for achieving the desired electrostatic performance.

Sound Signature

Drawing inspiration from the legendary SR-1 and SR-X headphones, the SR-X1 aims to deliver a flat and neutral sound reproduction, a hallmark of STAX electrostatic headphones. This uncolored and precise representation of the original audio signal allows listeners to experience music as the artists and engineers intended, without any artificial enhancement or coloration.

The SR-X1’s ability to reproduce a wide range of frequencies with exceptional clarity and detail makes it an ideal choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts who appreciate a transparent and immersive listening experience. Whether you’re listening to classical symphonies, jazz ensembles, or contemporary pop music, the SR-X1 offers a faithful and captivating interpretation of the source material.

Amplification and Connectivity

To fully appreciate the capabilities of the SR-X1, STAX recommends pairing the headphones with a dedicated electrostatic amplifier, such as the SRM-270S. This combination, known as the SRS-X1000 system, ensures optimal performance and synergy between the headphones and the amplifier.

The SR-X1 is equipped with a 2.5-meter parallel cable with 6 conductors, designed to minimize capacitance and ensure clean and unobstructed signal transmission. The cable features high-quality OFC (oxygen-free copper) conductors, further enhancing audio fidelity and reducing the risk of signal degradation.

Key Benefits

• Neutral sound signature, offering an accurate representation of the original audio
• Frequency response (7-41 kHz) for detailed and immersive sound reproduction
• Innovative placement of the sound production unit for precise and targeted output
• Lightweight design with metal construction for comfort and durability
• Soft sheepskin ear pads with memory foam
• Newly designed rack system for better stability and fit
• High-quality 2.5-meter parallel cable with 6 conductors and OFC conductors

Technical Specifications

Design

• Headphone type: open electrostatic
• Transducer: circular double-action (push-pull)
• Fixed electrode: precision-etched electrode

Audio Performance

• Frequency response: 7 Hz - 41 kHz
• Capacity: 110 pF (including cable)
• Impedance: 145 kΩ (at 10 kHz with 2.5 m cable)
• Sensitivity: 101 dB / 100 V RMS at 1 kHz
• Polarization voltage: 580 V DC

Physical Characteristics

• Weight: 234 g
• Conductor: oxygen-free copper (OFC)
• Cable: 6 parallel conductors, large cross-section with low capacitance, length 2.5 m
• Earpads:
  • Genuine lambskin leather (contact surface)
  • Synthetic leather (attachment part)