Fostex T50RP MK3 Professional Studio Headphones User Manual

Introduction

The Fostex T50RP MK3 Professional Studio Headphones are designed for accurate monitoring in professional recording studios. These semi-open headphones feature a planar-magnetic driver with Fostex's proprietary Regular Phase (RP) Technology diaphragm, providing clear and flat sound reproduction. This manual will guide you through the setup, usage, and troubleshooting of your new headphones.

Package Contents

• Fostex T50RP MK3 Professional Studio Headphones
• 3m 1/4-inch plug detachable cable
• 1.2m mini plug cable for portable audio use
• User manual

Setting Up Your Headphones

1. Choose the appropriate cable for your audio source. The 3m 1/4-inch plug detachable cable is suitable for professional audio equipment, while the 1.2m mini plug cable is designed for portable audio devices.
2. Connect one end of the chosen cable to the headphones by inserting the plug into the jack on the left earcup.
3. Connect the other end of the cable to your audio source (e.g., audio interface, mixer, or portable audio player).
4. Adjust the headband to fit comfortably on your head. The ear pads should fully cover your ears, and the head pad should rest gently on the top of your head.

Using Your Headphones

With the headphones properly connected and adjusted, you can now begin monitoring audio. The Fostex T50RP MK3 headphones are designed for accurate audio reproduction, making them ideal for critical listening and monitoring tasks. Keep in mind that these headphones have a semi-open design, which allows some sound to leak out and ambient noise to enter. This can be beneficial for maintaining a sense of space and natural sound, but may not be suitable for all listening environments.

Troubleshooting Tips

No Sound or Low Volume

• Ensure that the cable is properly connected to both the headphones and the audio source.
• Check the volume level on your audio source and increase it if necessary.
• Try using a different audio source to rule out issues with the original device.

Distorted or Poor Audio Quality

• Ensure that the cable is properly connected to both the headphones and the audio source.
• Check the audio source for any issues with the audio file or signal.
• Try using a different audio source to rule out issues with the original device.

Discomfort or Poor Fit

• Adjust the headband to ensure a proper fit. The ear pads should fully cover your ears, and the head pad should rest gently on the top of your head.
• Give yourself some time to adjust to the headphones. It may take a few days of use to find the most comfortable fit.

FAQ

Are the ear pads and head pad replaceable?

Yes, the ear pads and head pad on the Fostex T50RP MK3 headphones can be replaced. This allows for easy maintenance and customization of the headphones for maximum comfort.

Can I use these headphones with my smartphone or portable audio player?

Yes, the Fostex T50RP MK3 headphones come with a 1.2m mini plug cable that is compatible with most smartphones and portable audio devices. However, due to their 50 ohm impedance, some portable devices may not provide enough power to drive the headphones to their full potential.

What is the difference between open, closed, and semi-open headphones?

Open headphones have a perforated or mesh exterior that allows sound to escape and ambient noise to enter. This can create a more natural and spacious sound, but may not be suitable for all environments. Closed headphones have a solid exterior that isolates sound, providing better noise isolation for the listener. Semi-open headphones, like the Fostex T50RP MK3, strike a balance between open and closed designs, offering some of the benefits of both.

What is the warranty period for the Fostex T50RP MK3 headphones?

Please refer to the manufacturer's warranty information for details on the warranty period and coverage for the Fostex T50RP MK3 headphones.

Product: Fostex T50RP MK3 Professional Studio Headphones, Semi-Open - Musical Instruments

Manufacturer provided details:
- Refined Fostex proprietary Regular Phase (RP) diaphragm driver using copper foil etched polyimide film and powerful neodymium magnet
- Maximum input level of 3000mW to comply with various professional uses
- Semi-open for flat and clear sound
- Low repulsion ear pad and head pad for maximum comfort
- Comes with 3m 1/4-inch plug detachable cable for best serviceability and 1.2m mini plug cable for portable audio use

Specifications:
- Brand: Fostex USA
- Model Number: AMS-T50RPMK3
- Item Weight: 11.4 ounces
- Product Dimensions: 7.68 x 4.13 x 7.09 inches
- Country of Origin: China
- ASIN: B0167XM092
- Item model number: AMS-T50RPMK3
- Customer Reviews: 4.5 out of 5 stars382 ratings4.5 out of 5 stars
- Best Sellers Rank: #2,850 in Over-Ear Headphones
- Is Discontinued By Manufacturer: No
- Date First Available: October 6, 2015
- Color Name: Black
- Size: T50RP
- Color Screen: No
- Color: Black
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Model Name: T50RP MK3
- Form Factor: Over Ear
- Weight: 11.4 ounces
- Dimensions: 7.68 x 4.13 x 7.09 inches
- First Available: October 6, 2015

FAQ:
Q: How is the sound isolation?
A: Not good. If you want isolation, try T40RP MK3. They are closed and should provide better isolation and they use the same driver as the T50RP.

Q: Can you compare sound quality to Sennheiser Momentum 1.0? I am looking for my first open-back headphones.
A: The T50RP is the semi-open model and considered the most neutral sounding. The T20RP is the open-back model and considered to have the most bass. The T40RP are the closed-back model. As others have said, an AMP is recommended; these require a little power to drive. Probably the most power-hungry headphone I've owned.

Q: How hard are they to power? Will Fiio X3 (first gen) handle it?
A: I have a Hiby r3, Hiby r6 Pro, and a FIIO X3 II. The FIIO has significantly more power and drives the T50RP rather well. I am modding the T50RP to balanced to see if the Hiby's can provide more juice that way. I don't like running 100% volume for not enough drive strength. FIIO is a strong little bugger!

Q: Can the SMSL SD793-II DAC/amp combo power these to a modest level (not painfully high)?
A: I'm not sure this helps, but I use a Fiio A3 Amp w/ my Fostex... it gives nice even highs/lows amplification. I use it w/ an iPod nano, Samsung phone, and Nexus tablet... my computer and laptop drive the headphones fine w/o the amp.

Q: Where are they made?
A: The box says, "Made in China".

Q: I just got these and they sound bad. Do they need burn-in?
A: I'd say they need amplification more than burn-in. Mine sound bad without an amp or with a really weak amp/DAC combo I've got on-hand, but they sound great when I use a quality amp.

Q: Can I power these using the Schiit Fulla? We are talking 230mw rms.
A: Yes, you can, but will you get the most out of them "no".....I currently use Teac HA-501-S Dual Monaural Headphone Amplifier 1,400mW + 1,400mW Output Power (at 32 ohms). If it were me, I'd get something with more nuts....My portable amp specs: Technical Parameters: Rated output power: 800mW + 800mW (32Ω load) SNR: ≥101dB (A-weighted) Life time: about 12 hours (32Ω load) Frequency response: 20Hz-100kHz (± 1dB) Sensitivity: ≤500mV (gain H) and this does really well with it.

Q: Can it be driven by a Sound Blaster G5 amp/DAC?
A: Most likely not... The closed-back ones probably but the semi-open need a lot of power to drive from.