Aiaiai TMA-2 – Tonmeister Preset

The modular TMA-2 headphone system from Danish manufacturer Aiaiai is an innovative collection indeed. The customer can choose from a variety of individual components spread across four product categories, including drivers, headbands, ear cushions and cables. Once one of each has been chosen, a full system can be assembled. Alternatively, you can opt for a pre-assembled configuration, with this Tonmeister Preset being one of them.

Configuration

For the Tonmeister preset, Aiaiai have compiled the H04 padded headband, the S04 speakers (given the “Vibrant” attribute), the E04 ear cushions, plus the C04 connecting spiral cable (mini jack adapter included, 1.5 metres in length).

With its matt black finish, the assembled headphone model looks impressive and of a premium quality. Wearing comfort can also be applauded, thanks to plenty of padding. The microfibre cover alone, however, tends to attract fluff and dust, so you may be better off with the artificial leather version, although this can impede comfort levels due to overheating. The external noise reduction credentials are good, providing sufficient sound suppression for monitor mixes.

Sound

The soundstage of the S04 speakers combined with the ear cushions provided is remarkable across the entire frequency spectrum, with a confidence and power that doesn’t suffer from sharpness or overemphasis. In fact, few headphones have impressed me as much in this respect, with this preset offering a fine balance between general listening pleasure and analytical sound. In direct comparison to our reference model, the Beyerdynamic DT-1990 Pro, you notice that the Aiaiai model puts a little less effort into the higher frequencies, while the stereo location is a little less accurate. However, in the bass range, it triumphs, successfully conveying impact. With this in mind, the TMA-2 is particularly suitable for listening to and producing bass-heavy electronic material.

A Convincing Composition

It’s worth noting that the TMA-2 Tonmeister Preset matches up exactly to the arrangement of components I found most convincing when testing individual elements from the series. With the spiral cable (C04), the headphones are practical for everyday use, without the worry of tangling and plenty of freedom of movement. The S04 speaker modules deliver an assertive bass foundation, above which are a crisp midrange and subtle trebles.