Fostex RPmk3 AMS-T50RPMK3
Fostex
31 Overall Score
vs
Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R
Sony
50 Overall Score
What Buyers Say
Fostex RPmk3 AMS-T50RPMK3
No customer feedback yet
Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R
92 out of 100 low confidence 9 reviews
The Sony MDR-Z1R is widely praised as a flagship closed-back headphone with exceptional build quality, comfort, and a unique sound signature that combines wide soundstage, controlled bass, and airy layering. Reviewers emphasize the need for a high-quality DAC/amp and balanced connection to unlock its full potential, and note that while expensive, it offers reference-level performance that rivals or exceeds competitors. A few mention a tight fit initially, but overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, with many considering it a masterpiece in headphone history.
Pros
- Exceptional build quality
- Wide soundstage for closed-back
- Controlled, deep bass
- High comfort with deep earpads
- Reference-level sound quality
Cons
- Very expensive
- Requires high-quality DAC/amp
- Tight fit initially for some
- Needs balanced cable for full potential
- Heavier than some open-back models
Build quality 5
Soundstage 4
Bass performance 4
Comfort 4
Value for money 3
Amplifier requirement 3
Scores
Studio
Music
Budget
Commute
Gaming
Work
Calls
Specifications
| Fostex RPmk3 AMS-T50RPMK3 | Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R | |
|---|---|---|
| Design | ||
| Form Factor | over-ear | over-ear |
| Open/Closed | semi-open | closed |
| Weight | 0.32 kg★ | 1.35 kg |
| Ear Cushion | Neu entwickelte Ohr- und Kopfpolster mit geringer Abstoßung | genuine sheepskin |
| Headband | — | genuine leather |
| Audio | ||
| Driver Type | planar magnetic | dynamic |
| Driver Size | — | 70 mm★ |
| Freq Min | 15 Hz | 4 Hz★ |
| Freq Max | 35 kHz | 120 kHz★ |
| Impedance | 50 Ω | 64 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 92 dB★ | — |
| Hi-Res Audio | — | ✓★ |
| Codecs | — | Sony MDRZ1R Signature, Hi-Res Headphone, Black |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wireless | — | ✗ |
| Wired Connector | 3.5mm | 3.5mm |
| Detachable Cable | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cable Length | 3 m | 3 m |
Pros & Cons
Fostex RPmk3 AMS-T50RPMK3
- Strong build (75th percentile)
- Below average comfort (10th percentile)10th %ile
- Below average mic (15th percentile)15th %ile
- Below average anc (32nd percentile)
Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R
- Strong user sentiment (96th percentile)96th %ile
- Strong sound (94th percentile)94th %ile
- Strong social proof (84th percentile)84th %ile
- Strong build (75th percentile)
- Below average comfort (2nd percentile)2nd %ile
- Below average mic (15th percentile)15th %ile
- Below average anc (32nd percentile)
Pricing
Fostex RPmk3 AMS-T50RPMK30.182score per dollar
vs
Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R0.220score per dollar
Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R offers 1.2x better value for money
Verdict
Winner: Sony Signature Series MDRZ1R
Scores 50 overall, wins 7 of 7 usage categories and 4 of 17 specs.
