In this article, I’m reviewing the HarmonicDyne Zeus Elite headphones. The Zeus Elite features 50mm long-stroke layered diaphragm dynamic drivers and zebra wood earcups. It’s priced at $379.
Disclaimer: This sample was provided by Linsoul for an honest review. All observations and opinions here are my own based on my experience with the product.
HarmonicDyne Zeus Elite
Specifications
| Acoustic architecture | Open Back |
| Drivers | Ф50mm Dynamic |
| THD | 0.25%@1KHz 100dB SPL |
| Sensitivity | 105dB/Vrms@1KHz |
| Impedance | 32Ω@1KHz |
| Freq. Response | 10-70KHz(Free Field) |
| Product Dimensions | 210*175*105(mm) |
| Product Weight | Approx.360g |
In the Box
- HarmonicDyne Zeus Elite headphones
- Detachable 4.4mm SPC cable
- Detachable XLR SPC cable
- Aluminium storage case
- User manual
Design
It’s easy to see Zeus Elite’s heritage from the original model. Compared to its predecessor, the Zeus Elite embraces a more subdued aesthetic, yet it loses none of its signature sophistication.
The build is made up of an assortment of metal, plastic and wood. The headband and yokes are plastic and the outer earcups have an aluminium cover with an intricate design. And while it doesn’t feel all that premium in the hand, the chosen materials keep the physical weight down and convey a premium look.
The earcups rotate around 120 degrees so the headphones can sit flat around your neck or on your desktop. The earpads are fairly plush and have a suede cover. There’s ample room for my reasonably large ears to fit inside comfortably.
In addition to rotating, the earcups pivot as well, allowing the headphones to conform naturally to the shape of your head. Speaking of comfort, I find the Zeus Elite to have excellent ergonomics and I can wear them for hours at a time with no negative effects.
The 2 included cables are of very high quality and consist of a 4-strand weave, with each individual strand composed of 182 cores (49 strands of 0.06mm single crystal copper + 133 strands of 0.06mm silver-plated copper). One has a balanced 4.4mm termination and the other has a balanced XLR termination. It should be noted there is no single-ended option in the box, so if you don’t have a balanced source, you’ll need an adapter. These cables have a very premium look and feel and are some of the nicest headphone cables in my entire collection.
Sound
Gear used for testing includes the SMSL DO300EX, HiBy R3 II and Earmen ST-Amp. Zeus Elite is easy to drive and can be used with just about any audio source (even straight out of a smartphone).
The HarmonicDyne Zeus Elite delivers a balanced sound signature. Its presentation is a tapestry of richness and organic warmth, seamlessly interwoven with clarity and a spacious feel. While it may not emphasize micro-details or offer an expansive soundstage, it captivates with its innate authenticity and inviting tonality.
Bass
While the lows aren’t aggressively boosted, they centre on a mid-bass foundation, imparting a comforting warmth that underpins the entire frequency spectrum. The sub-bass extends admirably, prioritizing tone over visceral rumble. It’s evident that these aren’t tailored for bass enthusiasts, but rather cater to listeners who appreciate a more balanced tuning.
Midrange
Zeus Elite showcases a midrange that steps confidently to the forefront, bestowing pronounced attention on vocals and midrange instruments. While it doesn’t boast the razor-sharp crispness or absolute transparency of some high-end monitors, its rendition is natural, imbuing the music with a lifelike presence.
Male vocals gain a unique depth, suffused with a comforting warmth. They resonate with a richness that evokes intimacy and emotion. On the other hand, female vocals are handled with clarity and composure, steering clear of any strident or overly assertive tendencies. The Zeus Elite lends them an air of graceful refinement, allowing their nuances to unfold in a manner that’s both engaging and soothing to the ear.
Treble
The highs on the HarmonicDyne Zeus Elite exhibit a gentle, refined character that provides a tasteful counterbalance to the assertive midrange. Treble notes, while possessing a commendable clarity and definition, exude a subdued radiance, foregoing the dazzling brilliance found in brighter headphones.
Yet, what they might lack in sparkle, they make up for in agility and tonal accuracy. The treble maintains an impressive pace, ensuring that details are delivered with precision. This is a treble that strikes a harmonious middle ground, steering clear of any sense of dullness or brittleness, offering a poised and articulate high-frequency presentation.
Soundstage and Technicalities
While the Zeus Elite’s soundstage may have moderate dimensions, it excels in both imaging and note density. The stage possesses noteworthy height and maintains a stable centre image. However, due to its subdued treble, it doesn’t extend beyond the headspace, nor does it reveal more subtle micro-details.
Instrument separation is commendable, if not outright exceptional, and even during intricate, multi-layered segments, the sound retains its clarity and avoids any sense of congestion.
Verdict
In conclusion, the HarmonicDyne Zeus Elite is another quality product from this relatively new brand. It’s a clear upgrade in terms of audio quality to the original Zeus, in my opinion, but whether or not people like the new aesthetic will come down to personal preference.
The build quality is good despite the use of plastic materials and the level of comfort is outstanding. With its audio quality, generous inclusion of 2 extremely high-quality cables and the aluminium storage case, it’s easy to see why the Zeus Elite gets my recommendation.
