LOAK2-TX03 is one of the new flagship models introduced in the LOAK2 lineup renewal. In this blog, I’d like to delve into the details of LOAK2-TX03, compare its sound with other models, and provide explanations about the wood choices for the rear housing. For orders and basic information, please refer to the product page below.
Housing)
Front : Titanium.
Body : Titanium (3D printing).
Rear : Various types of wood.(SIlver stainless steel mesh)
The body housing of LOAK2-TX03 is crafted from titanium using 3D printing technology. Unlike the 3D-printed housings of the old PROTOTYPE series, production has shifted to Japan, resulting in housings that are higher in performance and quality. Issues such as distortions and uneven layering present in the old PROTOTYPE housings have been addressed and improved upon.
Right : LOAK-TX
Right : LOAK-TX
The front housing of the LOAK2 is nearly identical in shape to the previous LOAK, but the internal structure is slightly different, incorporating thin stainless steel in the area where the drivers are secured. While titanium and aluminum are excellent materials for transmitting sound from the drivers to the nozzle tip due to their low vibration damping, they are not as effective at dampening the vibrations of dynamic drivers. Therefore, by incorporating stainless steel into the contact surface of the drivers, we are able to effectively suppress the vibrations of the dynamic drivers and achieve powerful bass and stable sound without distortion.
For the open portion of the backplate, we have slightly increased the inner diameter compared to previous OPEN types. This is to slightly reduce the rebound of air inside the rear housing, making the movement of the diaphragm softer and clearly distinguishing it from CLOSED types.
Left : TX02、Right : TX03
The characteristics of sound and comparison with other models)
LOAK2-TX03 is based on the LOAK2-TS(OP). The stainless steel body of the LOAK2-TS(OP) has been replaced with a titanium 3D-printed housing, and the sound has been optimized accordingly. Like the LOAK2-TS(OP), the LOAK-TX03 features a delicate and refined sound, but the TX03 has an overall milder and softer tone, with a gentle warmth and subdued attack or sharp peaks. It’s perhaps the gentlest and softest sound among all LOAK2 models.
Comparison of sound with LOAK2-TS(OP):
LOAK2-TX03 shares a similar frequency range with LOAK2-TS(OP), but their sonic characteristics are quite different. While the TS(OP) tends to have a relatively sharp and edgy sound, the TX03 has a milder and softer tone. The TX03 offers smoother and more cohesive sound, making it easier to listen to. Additionally, both models have subdued bass, but the TX03 tends to have more bass, resulting in a better balance across the low, mid, and high frequencies.
Comparison of sound with LOAK2-TX02:
LOAK2-TX02 and LOAK2-TX03, both being flagship models with an OPEN configuration, exhibit significantly different sonic characteristics when compared. While TX02 boasts a bold and powerful sound, TX03 offers a more delicate and refined sonic profile. Additionally, TX02 delivers an energetic sound with dynamic contrasts, whereas TX03 prioritizes a smoother and more even listening experience. The only similarity between them may lie in their slightly warm tonal character, but otherwise, they represent nearly opposite ends of the sonic spectrum.
Regarding the choice of backplate)
Since this model is of the open-back (OP) type, the difference in sound due to the choice of wood and metal for the rear enclosure is relatively small compared to the closed-back (CL) type. Regardless of the chosen material, there is no difference in the sound of LOAK2-TX03, and there is not a significant change that would make it sound like other models. However, upon careful listening, there are subtle differences discernible in the sound.
For those who prefer a tight and well-defined sound, I recommend using hard and dense woods. Ebony or even harder materials would be suitable for this purpose.
If you prefer a slightly mellower sound, it is advisable to choose woods that are not overly hard. Woods softer than rosewood would be preferable.
If you are seeking a lighter and gentler sound, woods with moderate density would be preferable.
I chose Granadillo. Among the woods handled by 634EARS, Granadillo falls in the medium range in terms of hardness and density. Its sound contours are not overly pronounced, which contributes to a sense of unity in the overall sound. Additionally, it produces a relatively soft, mild, and gentle tone. It can be said that this choice of wood aligns with the gentle and serene tonal direction of the TX03. As a result, the contours of the sound aren’t very sharp. However, since this model itself doesn’t emphasize clarity and crispness, I opted for a wood choice that aligns with the TX03’s direction. If you prefer a clearer sound, choosing a harder or denser wood might be preferable.
