1. Fostex announces the TH810 (closed-back) and TH818 (open-back) premium headphones, using acacia wood housings and identical components to higher-end models.
2. Both models feature a 50mm BioDyna driver with advanced design for refined bass performance, a frequency response of 12.5 Hz to 40 kHz, and are suitable for high-power amplification.
3. The headphones are lightweight (13.6 oz.), utilizing magnesium alloy, natural sheepskin padding, and silk protein synthetic leather for comfort and durability.
4. Shipping begins in late April 2026, with pricing expected to start around $1,000.
Introducing the New Fostex Headphones
The company Fostex has revealed a fresh take on their premium headphone lineup. They are launching two new models: the TH810, which is a closed-back design, and the TH818, an open-back version. What makes these significant is they share the same internal components as the higher-end TH910 and TH919, but for the housing, they switch to a more affordable material—acacia wood—rather than the traditional Japanese-lacquered maple decorated with silver foil patterns, making it more accessible yet maintaining quality.
Technical Specs and Audio Quality
The core of these headphones is the 50mm BioDyna driver. It has been thoughtfully redesigned to include a new voice coil and driver surround, aiming to give cleaner bass sounds with fewer artifacts and muddiness, as Fostex claims. They boast an impressive frequency response from 12.5 Hz to a whopping 40,000 Hz, which covers almost all audible spectrum. The impedance is set at 25 ohms, with a high sensitivity rating of 100 dB/mW. These headphones are mount for high-power amplifiers and can be driven with inputs as high as 1,800 mW through a 3.5 mm oxygen-free copper cable, which is included with the purchase.
Design and Comfort
To reduce weight without sacrificing durability, Fostex opted for a magnesium alloy frame, making the headphones about 20% lighter than their predecessors. Now weighing only 13.6 ounces or approximately 385 grams, they are easier to wear for extended periods. The headband is padded with natural sheepskin for a soft feel, and the ear cushions use silk protein synthetic leather combined with dual-density urethane foam — a comfort layer designed to prevent fatigue and enhance the listening experience.
Availability and Pricing
Expect to see the Fostex TH810 and TH818 at authorized distributors across the globe along with their official store. These models are set to start shipping towards the end of April 2026. Price details haven’t been officially announced yet but are speculated to fall around the $1,000 mark. This price point aims to reflect their premium feature set and audio profile, appealing to serious audiophiles and professional users alike.
