Pioneer DJ HDJ-X10

Testing a DJ headphone to US military standards may sound a little odd and somewhat extreme. After all, a premium DJ headphone model, such as the HDJ-X10, should be able to perform tasks more suited to everyday applications in the DJ booth or studio. You’ll find all the suitable spec for the latter here, with a robust design and solid metal construction, not to mention screw connections for added stability. The HDJ-X10 is not only a functional choice, but an eye-catching one thanks to its innovative swivel joints, with an overall timeless aesthetic many will appreciate. It’s even won a design award for its good looks. The Pioneer DJ holds up well, without exaggerated branding swamping its slick exterior. In fact, only the headband and two outlets are adorned with the understated Pioneer logo.

Black and chrome accents take the harsher edge of the metallic construction of these headphones, while a relief found on either earpiece ensures a secure grip. Below the left earpiece you can connect either the 1.2 metre spiral cable or 1.6 metre straight cable included with the headphones via Mini-XLR. With the 3.5mm to 6.3mm jack adapter, you can also hook these up to professional mixer and amplifier outputs, as well as connect to conventional mobile devices. On top of this, these Pioneer DJ headphones come with a hardshell carry case for safe transport of your new audio tech.

Soft-touch artificial leather padding stretches across the entire headband, taking the edge of any pressure when wearing these headphones. This is particularly welcome as these headphones are a much tighter fit than most. On top of this, the round earpieces always ensure a firm hold. The nano-coated synthetic leather of these is both sweat-proof and dirt-repellent, while the covers themselves are also replaceable, allowing them to be swapped out for alternatives if you fancy a change or need to clean the originals. These are suitable for most users, but may prove a little tight-fitting for those with much larger ears. The optimal height position of the earpieces is ensures by a clip extension that can be adjusted with nine increments, with snap-shut fastening to ensure it’s firmly in place. Positioning on the ears is adjusted by three joints. With the Y-joint, which springs back, the earpieces cannot be turned away from the ear itself for one-sided monitoring. However they can be turned away thanks to the flexible headband. The other two joints compensate for the horizontal position, locking into their starting position with ease. Thus, the HDJ-X10 always holds its position, even during rigorous head movements. What’s more, everything feels comfortable, despite a significant weight of 328 grams.

Sound

The HDJ-X10 shines with a frequency range from 5 Hz to 40 kHz. This is ensured by newly developed 50mm HD drivers, with special diaphragms and voice coils as standard. The headphone delivers concise, deep bass from a bass reflex chamber within the earpiece itself. Although they clearly define sound, they are not too intrusive and do not mask the midrange or treble. Only those who prefer a much more linear signal reproduction will be bothered in any way by the bass. Mids are evenly handled, with plenty of detail to enjoy. The high-frequency range reproduces in high-resolution, with natural output and precise delivery. Hi-hats sound razor sharp here, but never come across as exaggerated. Transients are transmitted clearly and without distortion, even at higher volume levels. This is thanks to its output of 106 dB and an impedance of 32 Ohm, which holds up well in its delivery, even when the headphone output is set to lower levels. Its high power output of 3,500 mW also pays off. Spatial depth radiates with a concert hall atmosphere, making these ideal for home cinema applications. The HDJ-X10 is perfect for audiophiles keen to enjoy long listening sessions beyond DJ and mobile use exclusively. Only for use in the studio do these headphones lack the required linearity levels.

Shielding

Shielding also benefits from the clasping and overall solid fit of these headphones. The headband itself ensures the ear pads press firmly against the ear, meaning there’s no scope for unwanted sound intrusion. In addition, the closed design quite literally encapsulates the ear, ensuring the driver signal has little chance to diffuse.