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Huxleigh
84
May 31, 2018
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@CEE_TEE Is this detachable cable interchangeable with any other headphones? Given the two-pin connector, I wonder if it’s swappable with Sennheiser HD 6X0 cables.
May 31, 2018
CEE_TEE
3480
May 31, 2018
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HuxleighBoth Sennheiser and Fostex have two pins of different sizes on each connector. Sennheiser:
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The Fostex pins have a bigger size differential:
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Also: + and - polarity are reversed on Fostex cables compared to Sennheiser based on community reports.
May 31, 2018
Vipu
7
Jun 1, 2018
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CEE_TEEDoes 3rd party cables have those pins or are those unique to TR-X00?
Jun 1, 2018
Valensilius_Zephyrus
131
Jun 1, 2018
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VipuHopefully not unique.
Jun 1, 2018
badheinz1985
34
Jun 2, 2018
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CEE_TEEActually, the red Sennheiser connector in the picture above is not exactly the stock connector. If you look at the stock Sennheiser cables that come with the headphones, you'll see that the pins there are identical to Fostex connector.
Jun 2, 2018
abramstechno
3
Jun 5, 2018
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badheinz1985Thanks for the clarification.
Jun 5, 2018
Huxleigh
84
Jun 5, 2018
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badheinz1985Near as I can tell, the main problem with a third-party cable solution isn't going to be the pin diameter. It's that none of the 2-pin connectors available for DIY use are molded to fit properly with Fostex's proprietary inlet. Understandable, given that Sennheiser commands vastly larger marketshare among enthusiasts and Fostex only began incorporating detachable cables into their limited selection of full-size headphones relatively recently. To date, only the TH-900 mk2 and TH-610 sport the feature.
Plugs that do not fit securely (even if they are capable of making an electrical connection) are not something that I'm inclined to mess about with. And they'll look unsightly as compared to the stock cable. Neither of those issues are necessarily deal breakers to some, but, together, they are for me.
Unless Massdrop is able to convince Fostex to offer a selection of cables of varying lengths and terminations alongside this drop, there's no reason for me to join it. Others may reasonably disagree.
Jun 5, 2018
FrostyP
502
Jun 6, 2018
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HuxleighA whole scene of headphone modders exists just for the Denon/Fostex family of headphones, DIY solutions are inevitable and I'm sure some of them will look quite nice
Jun 6, 2018
Congofather
3
Jun 7, 2018
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CEE_TEEI have been using a custom cable with my TH900MK2 for a while. But the pins in my custom cable are like the red ones. It works but not they do not fit as good as its original connector . How can I obtain these connectors?
Jun 7, 2018
jaydunndiddit
3262
Jun 8, 2018
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CongofatherI just saw these popup on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/NewFantasia-Replacement-Premium-Headphone-1-5meters/dp/B07C5TLNYR/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1528489775&sr=8-1&pi=AC_SX236_SY340_FMwebp_QL65&keywords=th610+cable&dpPl=1&dpID=41W--Jh0yFL&ref=plSrch.
The connectors look more similar to the Fostex style vs the Senn. For the cost, I'm tempted to try them when mine ship.
Jun 8, 2018
rslatara
287
Jun 22, 2018
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CEE_TEEEDIT: this cheap cable is not optimal!
Jun 22, 2018
abramstechno
3
Jun 23, 2018
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rslataralink us.
Jun 23, 2018
Manbear
237
Aug 4, 2018
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jaydunndidditDid you end up figuring out if those cables work on TR-X00? I can’t seem to find anything else at a reasonable cost and I’m one of the ultra premium cable non-believers. I may pull the trigger for $25 to find out.
Aug 4, 2018
gunnerx
4
Aug 6, 2018
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ManbearBased on the only comment: "Works great on the TR-X00 PH. Aesthetically it matches and is light, durable and matches the Purpleheart well with a slightly red/purple tinge to the inner cable. Fits the connector well and takes good force to remove so it will not easily disconnect. There is a small lip that occurs when not using the stock cable, but it is minor considering all the benefits. "
I decided to purchase a set.
Aug 6, 2018
jaydunndiddit
3262
Aug 7, 2018
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ManbearActually, yes, I have this cable (https://www.amazon.com/NewFantasia-Replacement-Premium-Headphone-adapter/dp/B07C5SP59Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1533644707&sr=8-1&keywords=th610+cable) and it fits better than I expected. The connectors have the 2-pins in varying size (it will only go in one way when connecting them) and they click into place nicely. They appear to sit flush and require a good amount of force to remove them.
Soundwise, it matches the stock cable. All I could ask for. I have mine at a length of about ~5 feet and it seems that length isn't offered any more. All in all, for under $25, I'm content with the quality of the cable.
Aug 7, 2018
Manbear
237
Aug 7, 2018
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jaydunndidditFantastic. Thankfully, I also picked them up before they sold out. Seems the Massdrop crew jumped all over them because the listing for the shorter (5ft?) doesn’t exist anymore. Here’s to not getting tangled up in 10ft of massive cable!! Now begins the shipping wait...
Aug 7, 2018
rslatara
287
Aug 8, 2018
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ManbearYea but it's still not totally right the large and smaller connector are reversed but it will do the job. (kinda) https://www.head-fi.org/threads/fostex-sennheiser-connectors.884458/ You can buy connectors in china. The Large and small pins are reversed physically but also reversed on polarity. You can plug it in and it will work but the large pin is going into the small hole.
Aug 8, 2018
rslatara
287
Aug 8, 2018
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CEE_TEEHere is a post I made https://www.head-fi.org/threads/fostex-sennheiser-connectors.884458/
The Large and small pins are reversed physically but also reversed on polarity. You can plug it in and it might work as some are more forgiving than others but the large pin is going into the small hole so it's never really right.
You can get connectors from China but it would be good if Fostex sold sets of connectors so custom cable makers could make cables or just for people who want to make their own .
Aug 8, 2018
jaydunndiddit
3262
Aug 8, 2018
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rslataraAre you referring to the TH-610/900 cables linked above? That's what we're talking about. The Senn connector is just as you said but the 610/900 connectors are just like the OEM TR-X00 (sans the housing shape). The pins are of the correct size and it's impossible to insert the cable incorrectly. I've been using this cable for a few days now and everything sounds exactly like the stock cable--which is what really matters. Unless someone else can confirm otherwise, cables for TH-610/900 seem to be compatible without issue.
Aug 8, 2018
rslatara
287
Aug 8, 2018
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jaydunndidditThe TH900 cable on amazon for $20-25 is not made for it. If you put the correct pins in the polarity is reversed. If you put it with the marker facing out as it should be the Large pin is not going into the correct hole. It manages to attach on and work but it is made for a HD600 not a Fostex. The cables will go in either way. I tested it with a multi meter. I have a TH-610 for a while now.
I ordered connectors from China for a custom cable.
Aug 8, 2018
jaydunndiddit
3262
Aug 8, 2018
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rslataraHave you tried this cable with the TR-X00? I have mine with the marking facing in, with the pins in the correct sized holes. I've been using them for the last couple of days without issue. I'll try and do a polarity test when I get home for my cable as maybe they were wired correctly for Fostex while using the 3rd party Sennheiser connector.
Aug 8, 2018
rslatara
287
Aug 8, 2018
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jaydunndidditYes it will fit and work but the reversed polarity results in crappy sound. Well it won't be as tight. https://www.head-fi.org/threads/inverting-the-polarity-on-headphones-dramatically-changes-soundstage.746957/ go to aliexpress and get the th900 connectors ans send them to a company like periapt and have them cook up a custom cable.
Aug 8, 2018
jaydunndiddit
3262
Aug 8, 2018
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rslataraOK, but do you own the TR-X00 and have you tried the cable mentioned above to still have the issue you are describing? I'm trying to state that I do, the one they advertised as a TH900 mk2 replacement, and it sounds identical to the OEM Fostex removeable cable. The connectors also fit tightly and snugly and require the same amount of force to remove as the OEM cable. The only difference is the markings for L/R on the aftermarket cable face inwards and the OEM cables faces outwards.
Aug 8, 2018
rslatara
287
Aug 8, 2018
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jaydunndidditThe TH-610 uses the same system, even the Massdrop rep said sennheiser are different. I tested these cables they are wired for sennheiser even if they are advertised for Fostex, I sent mine back.
If you want it to sound right have the L/R facing out but the large pin will be going into the smaller connection, it connects just not ideal. I bought connectors for $30 and will put it on my copper braided cable. It's a pity they are marketing this as a Fostex cable when it is not.
If you need anymore clarification then get a multi-meter and test them yourself. Here is a pic I made to try explain it.
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Aug 8, 2018
Manbear
237
Aug 8, 2018
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jaydunndiddit@rslatara There may be some confusion... I bought the cables from the Amazon link that @jaydunndiddit first posted. Unfortunately, this is now a dead link as the product is not available. When it was available, it was confirmed to work from other users in the question and review section, however the tapered rubberized housing is not present, thus creating a "lip." The second link (https://www.amazon.com/NewFantasia-Replacement-Premium-Headphone-adapter/dp/B07C5SP59Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1533644707&sr=8-1&keywords=th610+cable) appears to be the same description, but a flipped pin configuration. Compare the photo of my cable to the one in the Amazon link. Clearly, both do not seem to be Sennheiser connections (see photo comparison of my SH OEM cable vs 3rd party Amazon cable in other post).
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Aug 8, 2018
Manbear
237
Aug 8, 2018
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jaydunndiddit@rslatara Stock Sennheiser vs 3rd Party "New Fantasia" Fostex cable.
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Aug 8, 2018
Manbear
237
Aug 8, 2018
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rslataraDoh! I see what you're saying now. I also tested the polarity on the "New Fantasia" cable and the smaller is (+), larger is (-). My cable connection looks like yours and has the same polarity. The one in this link (https://www.amazon.com/NewFantasia-Replacement-Premium-Headphone-adapter/dp/B07C5SP59Z/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1533644707&sr=8-1&keywords=th610+cable#customerReviews) has the pins flipped relative to the L/R labels, but this is the SAME exact photo as their HD600/650 replacement cable. The single reviewer states that they are wired as SH connections - that's not you, is it? ;) I don't have stock Fostex cables to confirm, but I assume that you and other posters are correct in that Fostex = Large (+), Small (-). I will try them when my Ebony TR-X00 arrives tomorrow, but will likely return the Amazon cables on principle alone. TLDR: New Fantasia brand Fostex replacement cables from Amazon probably have the wrong polarity.
Aug 8, 2018
rslatara
287
Aug 8, 2018
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ManbearYea that is me ;).
It will plug with the indicator facing out just the wrong pins are inserted so it's not as it should be but will work. I wish Newfantasia would just reverse it and make a proper one. I had a custom cable made in China which was for a Senn before i knew all this. You can get actual connectors from China and use them on a custom cable but they are pricey at about $30.
Aug 8, 2018
rslatara
287
Aug 9, 2018
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CEE_TEEI did a post here, I really think Fostex should knock a pair out of the park for custom cables. Currently on Aliexpress for $30 but if you could get them here for $20 you would sell a bunch. I bought a set for my TH-610.
https://www.head-fi.org/threads/fostex-tr-x00-th6-10-th-900-the-sennheiser-connection-ors.884458/
Aug 9, 2018
jaydunndiddit
3262
Aug 9, 2018
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Manbear@rslatara How did you both test for polarity? A simple multimeter would not work unless it has a built-in oscilloscope. I played a test tone using both the OEM and 3rd party cable and the sound matched the several times I did this. Actually, every test I performed they were at the same level without any differences. I used one channel of each cable into the earcups (then swapped sides) and plugged in both simultaneously to my amp. I also did this with both channels, and completely swapped cables and performed the same tests. It was identical both times for me.
Hearing wise, if they were out of phase you would know. It's pretty easy to hear it once you know what you;re looking for. This is essentially the same test I would perform on my loudspeakers which has worked for me in the past. Maybe I got lucky in what I purchased (or maybe it was the length that's sold out) but I am not experiencing any issues.
Aug 9, 2018
Manbear
237
Aug 9, 2018
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jaydunndidditI used a multimeter as I would with a DC circuit - admittedly without extensive knowledge of testing headphone cable polarity. Plugged cable into high output OTL amp, Red lead to one pin, black lead to the other then switched. I would get negative readings one way and positive the other. In this case both SH OEM and the New Fantasia cable tested the same (large pin pos, small pin neg). I’ve just heard multiple reports of Fostex TR-X00 having the opposite polarity. With limited knowledge of the subject this could be Wrong.
Aug 9, 2018
rslatara
287
Aug 9, 2018
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jaydunndidditYes, that's correct it is not a simple multi-meter I used, it was a uber special one I got from Santa. We have two people in the comments that tested the cable, you need to go research reverse polarity and how it affects sound, if your happy then good for you.
Aug 9, 2018
jaydunndiddit
3262
Aug 10, 2018
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rslataraNo need to have an attitude or be a smartass. Technically, you're not gaining much by placing the probes of the DMM over the headphone cables. Unless you're comparing the wave from each driver to determine the phase from an oscilloscope with AC, you're not getting the complete picture. It's why I asked if you owned this headphone and had actually tested the headphone's terminals as well as the cables. You weren't clear on how you came to your conclusion and my results were different than yours.
Aug 10, 2018
Manbear
237
Aug 10, 2018
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jaydunndiddit@rslatara I say that you're both right. At least the way that I tested (even if it may not be correct): Fostex TR-X00 stock cable: large pin (+), small pin (-) Sennheiser HD58X stock: large (-), small (+) New Fantasia Fostex replacement: large (-), small (+) So... I don't really know what to think because the Fostex cables do sound the same to me, at least in the 10 minutes that I've had to listen. I'll remain a neutral party because I don't know enough about this shit to be sure that it's 100% accurate and if it sounds good to my ears then I also don't give a shit ;) It's not like I don't have 6 pairs of cans each with multiple cables. Enjoy your gear!!
Aug 10, 2018
ttran946
91
May 31, 2020
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jaydunndidditAre you sure the polarity is not reversed on this aftermarket cable? I thought it is?
May 31, 2020
jaydunndiddit
3262
May 31, 2020
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ttran946It's hit or miss, apparently. So, I wouldn't trust the listing. The one I have works and measures correctly, while others on Amazon and here have reported otherwise. So, not worth the gamble. Don't waste your money.
May 31, 2020
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