Quad Era 1

The Quad Era 1 is an open-back wired headphone with a planar magnetic diaphragm, the first headphone model from the British brand. It follows in the footsteps of the ESL electrostatic speakers that made Quad's reputation, with the ambition of transposing that same sonic realism to the headphone format.

Its ultra-thin, electrically active diaphragm, thinner than a human hair yet resistant and elastic, is paired with a magnetic system precisely arranged to maximise sensitivity and the consistency of force applied across the entire driver area. A non-linear vibration suppression technology allows for effortless reproduction of the extended frequency response, stated as 10 Hz to 40 kHz, with harmonic distortion below 0.2% at 1 kHz for 100 dB SPL. The metal cavity placed behind each driver is designed to optimise acoustic performance, and the transducers are precisely matched to build a three-dimensional and spacious stereo image.

With an impedance of 20 ohms and a sensitivity of 94 dB SPL, these headphones are aimed at listeners seeking an analytical and nuanced listening experience, in a quiet environment suited to the open-back format. Weighing 420 g, they make a fine companion for home listening, for music lovers attentive to detail and soundstage.