Yamaha PRO 400 Review

Japanese Euphony

Yamaha PRO 400 review

Yamaha has made headphones before. Though it was so long ago that most people probably have forgotten them. Therefore, it is little short of remarkable that Yamaha suddenly releases an entire range of new models in various sizes and price ranges. From earbuds for smart mobiles to the PRO Series three models.

Yamaha PRO 400
  • 82%
    Sound Quality - 82%
  • 82%
    Features - 82%
  • 72%
    Comfort/Usability - 72%
  • 82%
    Build Quality - 82%
79.5%

SUMMARY

Given Yamaha’s fine tradition of instruments and reputable hi-fi components, expectations are high for the PRO 400 headphones. We are pleased.

PLUS Large and spacious sound stage. Flat cable with mic. Cool design.
MINUS Could have been more transparent. Can be uncomfortable in the long run.

The top model is called PRO 500 but we start by testing the PRO 400 which is the same technically, but built of cheaper materials. There is also a smaller, lighter and cheaper PRO 300, but this is all about the middle model.

PRO 400 is a direct competitor to the Sony MDR-1R, Sennheiser Momentum and Philips Fidelio series. The Yamaha headphone comes in Ivory White or Piano Black and has sealed cups and detachable cable. It includes two different cables, a 4′ short with microphone and remote control for smart phones and a 10′ long for home use. The cords are flat like tagliatelle pasta and tangles less than most standard cords. The ear cups can be folded and can fit in a box which is included.

Yamaha PRO 400 white

​50 mm large drivers are driven by neodymium magnets. The sensitivity, efficiency and impedance is suited for portable use and a smart phone or tablet has no problem running them.

Yamaha PRO 400 carrying case and cords

Yamaha claims that PRO 400 is designed for a tonally rich, clear sound and I have to say that it is largely true. The sound is warmer and fuller than in Sennheiser Momentum, but not as tightly focused. In practice this means that the Yamaha headphones sound ingratiatingly agreeable. In other words, they are easy to like. The bass is very mellow but not as obtrusive with the Solo Dr Dre Beats, and the sound has a better balance. Strings ring charmingly and the sound of the piano is reproduced elegantly and deliciously, even if the sound is not completely neutral. The great warmth of the tone compliments most voices nicely. Since the treble is airy, but subdued, the sound will never sound hard or pushy.

​The diameter of the ear cups may be too small for some ears, which doesn´t cover all the way around without squeezing a little on top of the ears. It's a shame. The cups press a little too tight over the ears most of the time. PRO 400 sits, other in words, as molded to your head, but can feel somewhat uncomfortable when worn lengthy periods. If comfort is important, the Sony MDR-1R might be a better option. The sound quality is, however, nothing to complain about. As long as you do not prefer either bass heavy headphones or a completely neutral tone, Yamaha PRO 400 is an interesting alternative to the established headphone brands' models in this price range. Few of them have an equally nifty and becomingly mellow sound like these.

GET IT ON eBay!

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  • FEATURES
  • SPecIFICATIONS
  • Over-ear design for superior noise isolation
  • Premium, mobile-optimized drivers for maximum efficiency and performance
  • Yamaha tuned for exceptional clarity, power and tonal accuracy
  • Durable build
  • Adjustable headband and soft ear cushions for outstanding comfort
  • Compact folding design for easy storage
  • Semi-rigid case
  • Detachable tangle-resistant flat cable (4 ft/1.2 m) with in-line remote/mic optimized for Apple devices
  • Detachable tangle-resistant flat cable (10 ft/3 m)
  • Gold-plated ¼” adapter
  • Available in Piano Black and Ivory White

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