ADAM Audio has unveiled the H715 Reference, its new flagship open-back headphones designed for critical listening, mixing, and mastering. Combining custom titanium-plated drivers, precision acoustic engineering, and dedicated software from Sonnox, the H715 Reference aims to deliver the accuracy of a professional monitoring system in a portable format. A dedicated Hi-Fi mode also makes these headphones an attractive option for audiophiles looking for reference-quality sound at home.
Reference Sound Beyond the Studio
The H715 Reference brings ADAM Audio's expertise in professional studio monitoring to a headphone designed for demanding audio applications. Its open-back architecture delivers a spacious, natural listening experience, while custom-designed 40 mm titanium-plated PEN drivers provide detailed sound reproduction with exceptionally low distortion.
Each driver features a powerful neodymium magnet, a carefully tuned suspension system, and a patent-pending ventilation design. The angled drivers sit behind a permeable woven steel mesh, with strategically positioned acoustic damping materials helping control unwanted resonances.
With a frequency response extending from 9 Hz to 40 kHz, a maximum sound pressure level of 113 dB, and total harmonic distortion below 0.05% at 1 kHz and 100 dB SPL, the H715 Reference is engineered to reveal the fine details that matter during mixing and mastering.
Professional Monitoring Powered by Sonnox
One of the H715 Reference's standout features is its included software suite developed in collaboration with audio processing specialists Sonnox.
The Headphone Utility plug-in provides precise headphone calibration alongside adjustable crossfeed, helping engineers achieve more natural stereo imaging and better translation between headphone and loudspeaker monitoring.
Also included is Sonnox ListenHub, a virtual monitoring application that simplifies referencing and critical listening. Users can compare tracks from streaming platforms, match loudness levels, and examine mono compatibility, stereo balance, and side information.
On macOS, the Headphone Utility plug-in can operate directly within ListenHub, providing system-wide calibration independent of the audio source. Together, these tools create a flexible monitoring environment for producers and engineers working in traditional studios, home setups, or on the road.
Dedicated Hi-Fi Mode for Balanced Listening
Although primarily developed for professional audio production, the H715 Reference also caters to dedicated music listeners.
A dedicated Hi-Fi mode enables true balanced audio playback when connected to a compatible differential headphone amplifier. Using the included 3-metre dual-entry cable with a 4.4 mm Pentaconn connector, the headphones can receive separate balanced signals for the left and right channels.
Switching modes is straightforward. A recessed button inside the left earcup, activated with the supplied metal pin, separates the common ground between channels. Pressing the button again restores standard operation for use with the conventional single-entry studio cable.
This flexibility allows the H715 Reference to serve as both a professional monitoring tool and a premium home listening solution.
Designed for Long Sessions and Everyday Durability
Comfort is essential when working through extended production sessions, and ADAM Audio has paid close attention to the H715 Reference's mechanical design.
A spring steel headband provides a secure fit, while its specially shaped padding features a central cutout that reduces pressure on the top of the head. CNC-machined aluminium yokes connect the headband to the earcups, providing a durable foundation without unnecessary weight.
The memory foam earpads are available in two included finishes, soft cloth and faux leather, allowing listeners to choose their preferred feel.
Weighing just 302 grams without the cable, the H715 Reference is designed for comfortable extended listening. Its earcups can also rotate to lie flat, making storage and transportation easier with the included hardshell carrying case.
ADAM Audio has also adopted a modular approach to construction. The cables, earpads, and headband padding are replaceable, helping extend the headphones' useful lifespan.
Flexible Connectivity for Studio and Home
The H715 Reference comes equipped with two cables to accommodate different listening environments.
The standard studio cable uses a single-entry connection and features a 1.3-metre coiled design that extends to approximately 3 metres. It terminates in a 3.5 mm TRS connector, with a 6.3 mm adapter included for professional audio equipment.
For balanced listening, the dedicated 3-metre Hi-Fi cable connects to both earcups and terminates in a 4.4 mm Pentaconn connector.
Combined with its interchangeable earpads, portable carrying case, and replaceable components, the H715 Reference offers the flexibility needed for a variety of monitoring and listening applications.