Alessandro Music Series Two headphones
The MS-2 is 'cloned' from the Grado SR-325i, and is distinguished from the lower (and higher) models in the Grado / Alessandro range by the metal backing (outer) of the earcups. To quote from the Alessandro website:
All Music Series headphones have a vented diaphragm design that incorporates a large air chamber. This design lowers the frequency resonance (distortion) of the diaphragm and extends bass response. A unique process to de-stress the diaphragm results in enhanced inner detail. The diaphragm is made of a low mass polymer, carefully formed to broaden resonant modes to reduce their amplitude. The diaphragm's total mass is calculated to provide a full 20 KHZ bandwidth while avoiding breakup at lower frequencies.
Whilst feeling 'weighty' in the hand, once on the head, they feel nicely balanced and comfortable for longer listening sessions. Along with the aluminium accents, they are neatly finished with a leather headband and a 1/4" connecting plug.
So how do they sound? With an iPod, Wadia iTransport and HeadRoom Cosmic portable SS headphone amp, the MS-2 was a bit boomy on the bottom and somewhat unrefined up top. These listening traits were probably more representative of the upstream combo than the Alessandro however, as when they were hooked up to the Wadia 861SE playing little silver discs and the Yamamoto tube headphone amp, the MS-2 delivered a very dynamic presentation. Strong bass, vibrant highs and a solid mid range were evident and just slightly bright would be my estimation of their overall tonal balance. You wouldn't call these 'phones delicate and they don't have the air, space & delicacy of the GS-1000 for example. Albeit at a very different price point.
With the right expectations and upstream equipment, I believe the MS-2 is a great value rock & roll headphone and a positive addition to my headphone 'collection'.