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00:00:00 – 00:07:25
The video discusses the concept of the Harman curve, which is a target frequency response that optimizes sound quality for headphones. Harman International conducted research to determine this ideal response by testing various headphone models and using equalizer models based on loudspeaker responses. Results showed preferences for certain response curves like RR1G over RRG, especially for headphones like Odyssey LCD2. The importance of a neutral and well-balanced headphone response is emphasized, contrasting with less favorable responses that are too bright, dull, thin, or colored. The Harman curve sets a standard for headphone sound quality, aiming for a balance across bass, mids, and treble frequencies. Recommendations for improving headphone comfort and sound quality are provided in the video, which prompts viewers to consider the Harman curve as a benchmark for assessing headphone performance.
00:00:00
In this segment of the video, the speaker introduces the concept of the Harman curve, which refers to a specific target frequency response that produces the best sound for headphones. The Harman curve originated from research by Harman International, a renowned company in the audio electronics space. The research aimed to determine the optimal headphone frequency response through blind listening tests, as there was previously no consensus on what constituted the best sound quality for headphones. The ideal frequency range for headphones is typically from 20 Hz to 20 kHz, covering bass, mids, and treble. The Harman curve is a result of this research and represents an important standard for headphone sound quality.
00:03:00
In this part of the video, the researchers tested headphone frequency response curves using the Sennheiser HD518s and Odyssey LCD2 Rev 2 headphones. They created equalizer models based on loudspeaker frequency responses and conducted tests with a small group of employees using a rating system for preference. The music tested included tracks like Jennifer Ward’s “Birds on a Wire,” Steely Dan’s “Cousin Dupree,” and Tchaikovsky’s “Parade of Wooden Soldiers.” The results showed that the RR1G response curve was preferred over the RRG curve for the Odyssey LCD2 headphones, even after equalization.
00:06:00
In this segment of the video, the researchers compared hd-518 and r1g headphones, finding that hd-518 scored higher over the r1g in response curve. They highlight that stereo recordings mixed on a stereo monitor system sound best when headphones are equalized like a stereo loudspeaker system. Preferred headphone responses are neutral and well balanced, while less preferred ones are too bright, dull, thin, and colored. This provides insight into the Harman curve and how it determines headphone frequency response. The video encourages likes, subscriptions, and provides a link to a blog post for more information. Viewers are asked if they believe the Harman curve is a good benchmark. Additional resources for improving headphone comfort and sound are offered at dakoneaudio.com.