Pricing and availability

We compare 600+ stores and found this item at 5 stores. Prices updated .

Amazon
4.5 (329)
$161.49 Used
Reverb
5.0 (3)
$189.99 New
$178.25 Used
B&H
5.0 (25)
$153.28
Thomann
4.6 (38)
$159.00

Average Price: $167

Standard/Professional

$100

$301+

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Description

Dive into the realm of professional audio with the Fostex T50rp Mk3 Studio Headphones, a semi-open treasure that marries precision and comfort in an unassuming package. Standing on the shoulders of its legendary predecessors, the T50rp Mk3 continues the legacy of excellence with enhancements that cater to the critical ears of today's music producers and audiophiles. Whether you're mixing down your latest track or soaking in the intricate layers of your favorite recordings, these headphones deliver a flat, clear sound that's as truthful as it is breathtaking.

Crafted with Fostex's proprietary Regular Phase (RP) Technology, the planar-magnetic drivers ensure an audio reproduction that's sharp and accurate. This technology, combined with a meticulously refined diaphragm, unveils nuances in the music that conventional headphones may gloss over. To complement the exceptional sound, the T50rp Mk3 features redesigned ear pads and head pad, promoting unparalleled comfort for those marathon listening sessions. Equipped with detachable cables of varying lengths, these headphones adapt seamlessly to studio environments and mobile listening alike, ensuring your music is always within reach.

Key Features:

  • Semi-open design for a balance of isolation and natural sound
  • Proprietary Regular Phase (RP) diaphragm for accurate monitoring
  • Orthodynamic drivers deliver flat and clear sound
  • Comfortable, redesigned ear pads and head pad
  • Impedance: 50 Ohm, Sensitivity: 92 dB
  • Frequency range: 15 - 35000 Hz
  • Maximum input level: 3000 mW
  • Includes 3m detachable cable with 1/4" plug and 1.2m mini plug cable

Product specs

Brand Fostex
Model T50RP mk3 Semi-Open Studio Headphones
Finish Black
Year 2010s
Categories Over-ear Headphones

FAQs

Are the Fostex T50RP mk3 headphones suitable for mixing and mastering?

Yes, the Fostex T50RP mk3 headphones are designed for studio use, offering a balanced and detailed sound profile that is ideal for mixing and mastering applications.

What type of design do the Fostex T50RP mk3 headphones have?

The Fostex T50RP mk3 headphones feature a semi-open design, providing a balance between sound isolation and an open, natural soundstage.

Can the Fostex T50RP mk3 headphones be driven by portable devices?

While the Fostex T50RP mk3 headphones can be connected to portable devices, they have a higher impedance and may require a headphone amplifier for optimal performance.

Are the ear pads on the Fostex T50RP mk3 headphones replaceable?

Yes, the ear pads on the Fostex T50RP mk3 headphones are replaceable, allowing for extended use and customization with different pad materials.

What makes the Fostex T50RP mk3 headphones unique compared to other models?

The Fostex T50RP mk3 headphones utilize planar magnetic drivers, offering precise audio reproduction and a wide dynamic range, distinguishing them from conventional dynamic driver headphones.

Z Reviews

Z Reviews

Z Review - Fostex T50rp MkIII (My New Babies)

Video thumbnail for Z Review - Fostex T50rp MkIII (My New Babies) by Z Reviews

Z Review - Fostex T50rp MkIII (My New Babies)

Z Reviews

Z Reviews

Video thumbnail for Fostex T50Rp MK3 - REVIEW by DMS

Fostex T50Rp MK3 - REVIEW

DMS

DMS

Video thumbnail for Fostex T50rp mk3 (stock) - review by the Honest Audiophile

Fostex T50rp mk3 (stock) - review

the Honest Audiophile

the Honest Audiophile

Video thumbnail for Fostex T50rp mk3 - Mod update by the Honest Audiophile

Fostex T50rp mk3 - Mod update

the Honest Audiophile

the Honest Audiophile

Video thumbnail for Fostex T50rp mk3 Mayflower - review by the Honest Audiophile

Fostex T50rp mk3 Mayflower - review

the Honest Audiophile

the Honest Audiophile

Reviews

PROS

  • Excellent sound quality with high resolution and clarity

  • Planar magnetic drivers offer fast and clean response

  • Versatile for various music genres with detailed sound signature

  • Mod-friendly design with standard Philips screws and 3.5mm jack

  • Sturdy professional design with great value for the price

  • Semi-open design provides natural soundstage

  • Compatible with different ear pads for sound customization

  • Comfortable for extended use, even for glasses wearers

  • Understated style with a touch of flair from orange cables

CONS

  • Requires a powerful amplifier for optimal performance

  • Stock ear pads are thin and may be uncomfortable

  • Slightly recessed midrange with stock pads

  • Highs can be a bit too prominent for some preferences

  • Some may find comfort could be improved

Owner Insights

We analyzed real musician discussions from forums and Reddit to find what players love, question, and tweak about Fostex T50rp Mk3 Studio Headphones (Semi-Open).

Mods and upgrades

  • Shure HPAEC1540 Replacement Alcantara Ear Pads are recommended for improved comfort over stock pads, with no reported adverse effects on sound signature.

    Source
  • Sealing baffle ports can enhance low-end punch, addressing perceived light bass in stock form.

    Source
  • Craft felt from hobby stores is used for modding, costing about $2, and all modifications are reversible.

    Source
  • ZMF suede pads significantly enhance comfort for the T60RP, making them the most comfortable headphones for some users.

    Source
  • Mayflower mod kit includes clay, felt, and cotton wool for tuning, offering improved bass and dampened highs, but makes headphones heavier.

    Source
  • Users report that 3.5mm jack inputs and Meze 2.5 balanced cables can be soldered for easier drivability with portable amps like Fiio Btr5.

    Source
  • Accessory House pads, especially sheepskin knockoffs of ZMF ovals, are recommended for comfort and improved sound, costing about half of genuine ZMF pads.

    Source

Features and functionality

  • The Fostex T50RP Mk3s have a semi-open design, but actual sound leakage is minimal, making them suitable for office use.

    Source
  • The T50RP Mk3 is considered bright and requires substantial modding to mitigate its V-shaped sound profile.

    Source

Comparisons

  • Compared to the T20RP, the T50RP Mk3s leak significantly less sound, making them more suitable for environments requiring quiet.

    Source
  • The T50RP Mk3 stock form is often not favored for recreational listening compared to models like the HE400i.

    Source
  • The T50RP Mk3s need extensive modding to outperform the Sennheiser HD 650 in terms of detailed highs and bass.

    Source

User experience

  • Users report good bass that doesn’t interfere with mids and highs, with a soundstage described as club-like, providing an immersive listening experience.

    Source
  • Stock pads and sound profile are often criticized as too bright, with multiple users emphasizing the need for aftermarket pads and mods.

    Source

Use cases and applications

  • The T50RP Mk3s are frequently used in studio monitoring, reflecting their intended design purpose.

    Source

Setup and maintenance

  • Headphones require high gain from amps like ZenDac or Fiio Btr5 for optimal performance, indicating sensitivity issues.

    Source

Critic Reviews

Fostex T50RP MKIII headphones review - VI-CONTROL

vi-control.net

The Fostex T50RP Mk3 headphones deliver exceptional sound quality with deep bass and detailed planar drivers, making them a stellar choice for mixing and critical listening. Build quality is robust, though the cables could be better. While comfortable for some, others might find the ear pads lacking. A significant downside is the necessity of EQ adjustments, particularly to tame a harsh peak at 10kHz. These headphones excel in soundstage and precision, but their bright treble might not suit everyone. Overall, a remarkable value at $150, especially for those open to modding and EQ tweaks.

positive

A DIYers Delight: The Fostex T50RP Mk3 | Stereophile.com

stereophile.com

The Fostex T50RP Mk3 headphones offer a solid foundation for DIY modification enthusiasts. With improved sound over its predecessor, the Mk3 delivers a balanced tonal experience, though it lacks sub-bass and requires a dedicated amp due to inefficiency. Its rugged design appeals to studios but may not attract casual listeners due to its utilitarian aesthetics. The unreliable locking jack remains a concern. For those not interested in modifications, alternatives like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x or HiFiMAN HE400S may offer better out-of-the-box performance. Overall, the T50RP Mk3 shines for tinkerers but falls short for the mainstream audiophile.

Add

5.0 out of 5

Based on 2 Reviews and 2 Ratings

5 star
4 star
3 star
2 star
1 star
wanya7

Great Headphone when used on a Good Loud HP Amp

Great for Lead Vocals Tracking - Deep Bass, Nice Depth, Natural Classic Sound Modern version of Michael Jackson's Favorite Headphones in the 80s for Tracking Vocals on

perceptronic

The best headphones I've ever had

Best value for money. Great Sound (need an amplifier) It is advisable to replace the ear pads (Shure HPAEC1540 fit perfectly)

From Gear Setup

Genre Usage

Based on how artists on Equipboard use this gear, it is most commonly found in the following genres.

Used With

Based on how musicians on Equipboard use Fostex T50rp Mk3 Studio Headphones (Semi-Open), it is most commonly used with the following gear.

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Razer Basilisk Ultimate Computers & Peripherals
1
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1
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JBL LSR305 Active & Passive Monitors
1
Focusrite Scarlett 2i4
Focusrite Scarlett 2i4 Audio Interfaces
1
Shure SM7B
Shure SM7B Dynamic Microphones
1

Community setups

Show yours
perceptronic

perceptronic

Gear IQ 172

perceptronic

perceptronic

Gear IQ 172

1 alternative for Fostex T50rp Mk3 Studio Headphones (Semi-Open), curated by the Equipboard community.

Fostex T60RP Studio Headphones

$261.74 - $338.00

similar sound

You can choose any version of Fostex according to your needs. There are open, semi-open and closed. It all depends on what they are for. T50RP is one of the most affordable and customizable models. T60 according to reviews sound about the same, but they already have a wooden case.

More Fostex Headphones & In-Ear Monitors

Artist usage

Gear Guides

  • Added to Equipboard on by

    michael
    michael

    Gear IQ 42641