Technics RP-DH1200

The RP-DH1200 professional DJ headphones were manufactured by the Technics Corporation in Japan. Their stated frequency response is 5 Hz to 30 kHz and the neodymium magnet drivers are 50 mm in diameter. These headphones are closed-back dynamic type with foldable design and swing arm system to be carried in the supplied pouch. Some unusual features include the detachable cord system, foldable design, and swivel cups. Note that in this article, all the photographs are of my refurbished pair with replaced ear-pads and repaired headband cushion.

Review

These headphones have wonderful build quality, as one would expect from Technics hi-fi made in Japan. DJs will love the swivel mechanism allowing for single-side monitoring, as well as the folding design and detachable cord. These headphones usually come with a 3 m detachable coiled cord, which of course is very useful for DJs who are always moving around. There is also a 1 m detachable straight cord for normal use. For non DJs, the detachable cord facility is still a good idea as one can use the shorter cord when travelling, and a longer one when in the lounge watching television. The back of the cups have mirror finish, and they look very impressive and substantial when in use.

If you were a bass junkie, then these headphones would be ideal as the bass response is excellent. Things like explosions and low-frequency effects (LFE) will sound amazing, however on the high frequency end, which in the manual they state 30 kHz; I thought the treble response was better than average. With some types of music I noticed that the bass was drowning out the treble. Of course, if one were to use these with an amplifier, then one could reduce the bass, and boost the treble using a graphic equalizer, then they would be more to my taste. Overall, their legendary reputation is well earned as they do sound far better than most of the cheaper options on offer.

Price/eBay

These Professional DJ headphones are often for sale on eBay and if you are buying a pre-used pair, then make sure it comes with the cord as replacement cables are very expensive. If the pads are worn out, then it is not so much of a problem as I managed to get replacement ear pads for just a couple of pounds and it came from China. This is an expensive high-ticket product so make sure that it is genuine and not fake. There may be some genuine old stock out there, but I also anticipate fakes as well, therefore double check many times and ask questions before buying.

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