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Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£390
Avg. price in US: ~$400
Form factor: over-ear
Connectivity: wireless
Battery life: 45 hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): yes

Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

7.6

Very good

7.7

Very good

7.3

Very good

5.4
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
3.9
Audio latency
25.0%
1.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
7.4
Battery life
7.9
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
10
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
7.4
Battery life
18.0%
1.8
Weight
16.0%
10
Multipoint support
14.0%
10
Ambient sound mode
9.6
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
10
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
10
Multipoint support
16.0%
7.4
Battery life
14.0%
10
Companion app
3.9
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
1.8
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
7.4
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

#153 in Best Wireless Headphones for TV for Seniors
#153 in Best Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
#154 in Best USB-C Headphones
#155 in Best Over Ear Headphones
#155 in Best Noise Cancelling Over Ear Headphones
#169 in Best Wireless Headphones
#176 in Best Noise Cancelling Headphones
#177 in Best Headphones with Mic

Verdict

The Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune is a premium closed-back wireless headphone featuring 40mm dynamic drivers that deliver an expansive frequency response of 8Hz to 40kHz with 4.7kΩ impedance. Its standout 'Perfect Tune' technology uses a dedicated app to map individual hearing nuances for each ear, complemented by two-level active noise cancellation—including a specialized 'Play-Along' mode that dampens drums by 50% for musicians. Main pros include a class-leading battery life of up to 45 hours with ANC enabled, robust Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity with multipoint support, and a high-quality build with replaceable pads. However, common cons include significant weight (approximately 357g to 454g depending on accessories) and a high clamping force that can lead to discomfort during long listening sessions, alongside the absence of high-resolution codecs like aptX.

Technical Specifications of Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune

Overall score

7.6

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

8.7

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

7.9

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

?

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

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Connectivity

5.6

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Features

6.9

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

8.4

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

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Design

5.4

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Zildjian

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

closed-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

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Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune vs the average headphone

Why is Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune better than the average headphone?

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Active noise cancellation
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.
Importance: HIGH
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Hi-Res Audio certification
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
What it is: Certified for high-resolution audio playback
When it matters: When official support for high-resolution playback matters to you.
Importance: LOW
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
EQ customization
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.
Importance: MEDIUM
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
10 Hz lower bass extension
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (8 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (8 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.8 Hz vs 18 Hz
More flexible connectivity
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
supports both wireless and wired connectivity.
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.
Importance: HIGH
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.wireless vs wired
20000 Hz higher treble extension
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (40000 Hz vs 20000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20000 Hz.
What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=24000 Hz
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (40000 Hz vs 20000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20000 Hz.40000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
Clear call microphone
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.
Importance: MEDIUM
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
On-device controls
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
What it is: Physical controls available directly on headphones
When it matters: When you need playback, volume, or call controls to be easy to reach without pulling out your phone.
Importance: MEDIUM
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
Foldable design
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a foldable design, the average headphone does not. 61% of headphones are foldable.
0.6 m more useful cable length
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.8 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
Active noise cancellation
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune supports active noise cancellation, the average headphone does not. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Hi-Res Audio certification
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
10 Hz lower bass extension
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (8 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
20000 Hz higher treble extension
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (40000 Hz vs 20000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20000 Hz.
15 hours longer ANC battery life
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher battery life with ANC than the average headphone (45 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life with ANC of 30 hours.
15 hours longer battery life
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher battery life than the average headphone (45 hours vs 30 hours). The average headphones offer battery life of 30 hours.
USB-C charging
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune uses USB-C charging, the average headphone does not. 29.4% of headphones use USB Type-C.
Rechargeable battery
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
More flexible connectivity
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune offers more flexible connectivity than the average headphone (wireless vs wired). The average headphones support wired connectivity.
5 m longer Bluetooth range
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher Bluetooth range than the average headphone (15 m vs 10 m). The average headphones offer a Bluetooth range of 10 m.
Clear call microphone
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune offers a clear call microphone, while the average headphone does not. 45.6% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
On-device controls
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune includes on-device controls, the average headphone does not. 46.8% of headphones support on-device controls.
Wind noise reduction
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune reduces wind noise, the average headphone does not. 34.1% of headphones support wind noise reduction.
EQ customization
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune supports EQ customization, the average headphone does not. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
7 years newer release date
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune was released more recently than the average headphone (2024 vs 2017). The average headphones were released in 2017.

Calls & Controls

Why is Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune worse than the average headphone?

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63.7% higher weight
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune is heavier than the average headphone (356.8 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
5.1 higher clamp force
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (9.4 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
2.7 % higher distortion
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (3% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.
8 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
No neodymium magnet
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
16 dB lower max SPL
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (94 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
9 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (94 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
54.5 ms higher audio latency
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (182 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
63.7% higher weight
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune is heavier than the average headphone (356.8 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune is heavier than the average headphone (356.8 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.356.8 g vs 218 g
2.7 % higher distortion
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (3% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.
What it is: Percentage of harmonic distortion in audio output
When it matters: When cleaner sound reproduction matters at louder volumes.
Importance: LOW
Good value: <=1%
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher total harmonic distortion than the average headphone (3% vs 0.3%). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3%.3 % vs 0.3 %
8 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
5.1 higher clamp force
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (9.4 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.
Importance: MEDIUM
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (9.4 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.9.4 vs 4.3
54.5 ms higher audio latency
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (182 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.
What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: <60 ms
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a higher audio latency than the average headphone (182 ms vs 127.5 ms). The average headphones have audio latency of 127.5 ms.182 ms vs 127.5 ms
4.33x more expensive
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune is more expensive than the average headphone (£390 vs £90).
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune is more expensive than the average headphone (£390 vs £90).£390 vs £90
No neodymium magnet
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
What it is: Uses neodymium magnets for stronger, clearer sound
When it matters: When driver construction details are part of how you compare sound hardware.
Importance: LOW
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
16 dB lower max SPL
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (94 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=116 dB
Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune has a lower max SPL than the average headphone (94 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.94 dB vs 110 dB

Graphic comparison of Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune and

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Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune?

Exceptional sound quality with clear high frequencies and punchy, tight lows
Customized 'Perfect Tune' app feature maps individual hearing to create a personalized EQ profile
Highly comfortable design with plush earpads and a padded headband suitable for long sessions
Long battery life of up to 45 hours with Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) engaged
Innovative 'Play-Along' mode allows drummers to hear their instrument while dampening outside noise
Premium build quality and stylish aesthetics inspired by classic Zildjian cymbals
Useful accessories including a high-quality carrying case, cables, and 1/4-inch adapter

What customers dislike about Zildjian Alchem E Perfect Tune?

High price point compared to other studio headphones with similar mechanical performance
Lack of high-quality aptX Bluetooth codec support
Relatively heavy at 356g, which may feel bulky to some users
Some users report the ear cups can get warm during extended use
Physical volume knob can sometimes be overly sensitive, leading to accidental track skipping
Potential issues with a 'clicking' or 'suction' noise in the ear cups when moving the head

Expert reviews

avforums.com

13/01/2025

Summary of the review

Zildjian ALCHEM-E Wireless Headphone Review

The AVForums review of the Zildjian ALCHEM-E wireless headphones, which earned a "Recommended" badge, highlights a spacious soundstage, superb build quality, and effective "Perfect Tune" software for hearing calibration and custom EQ. Specialized features, such as an intermediate noise-cancelling mode for drummers, are cited as major pros. Cons identified include a lack of aptX codec support for high-resolution audio, an divisive, unsubtle design, and a unique, awkward carrying case. AVForums

forbes.com

01/12/2024

Summary of the review

Zildjian's Wireless Headphones Move To A Different Beat

a little longer The Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune wireless headphonesGo to product viewer dialogue for this item., reviewed by Forbes, introduce the cymbal manufacturer to consumer audio, featuring a stylish design and a 45-hour battery life with ANC. A standout feature is the "Perfect Tune" system, which utilizes a 5-minute hearing test to create a customized sound profile for the user. However, the review notes drawbacks, including the lack of high-quality codecs like aptX for Android users and the omission of a smart pause feature. Additionally, the on-ear controls are described as difficult to navigate, and the device lacks a dedicated ambient awareness mode.

whathifi.com

09/11/2024

Summary of the review

Zildjian Alchem-E headphones review

The Zildjian Alchem-E wireless over-ear headphones are a unique offering from the legendary 400-year-old cymbal manufacturer, retail priced at £333 / $399 / AU$749. Designed primarily as a specialist tool for drummers, these closed-back cans boast a luxurious, gold-accented build with substantial ear padding and a standout battery life that exceeds 50 hours. Their most distinctive feature is a proprietary Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) system specifically tailored to acoustic drum kits to prevent audio clipping and evenly dampen frequencies. It features three ANC settings (Off, 50%, and 100%) and includes an "Audeara-powered" Perfect Tune personalization test to create a customized hearing profile that protects and corrects hearing damage. Tonally, the final production model delivers a lively, open, and well-balanced Bluetooth audio performance with deep, firm bass. The primary advantages of the Alchem-E headphones are their solid design, exceptional battery life, and highly effective hearing protection and correction features, including specialized ANC that evenly dampens live drums without frequency loss. However, they suffer from a few notable drawbacks. The review notes a premium price tag and a lack of common consumer...

performermag.com

04/09/2024

Summary of the review

REVIEW: Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect TuneGo to product viewer dialogue for this item. Over Ear Headphones Would you like me to find video-based field tes...

Zildjian ALCHEM-E Headphones Review Summary The Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune over-ear headphones mark a highly successful expansion into pro audio from a brand traditionally known for cymbals. Designed from scratch rather than re-badged, these $399 USD headphones cater to casual listeners, audiophiles, and studio engineers alike. The reviewer praised their exceptional luxury unboxing experience, aesthetic details like cymbal-inspired jog wheels, and extreme comfort during prolonged 4-to-6-hour sessions and outdoor hikes. Performance-wise, the headphones deliver a remarkable 7Hz to 22,000Hz frequency response through 40mm drivers, offering crystal-clear highs and punchy, mud-free bass even when handling demanding analog synth tracks and hip-hop sub-bass. A companion mobile app provides rapid, personalized EQ mapping through auditory testing alongside reliable Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), while the battery boasts an impressive lifespan of up to 45 hours with ANC active. In terms of distinct advantages and drawbacks, the review outlines the following: Pros: The headphones deliver pristine sound quality that rivals planar magnetic models triple their price, superb long-wear ergonomics, customizable app-driven sound profiling, reliable dual-setting noise cancellation, and fast USB-C charging. Cons: The reviewer officially...

kopfhoerer.de

11/12/2024

Summary of the review

Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune review on kopfhoerer.de

The Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune is a closed-back, dynamic over-ear headphone tailored specifically for drummers, combining an elegant black-and-gold design with a rich, expansive frequency range of 8 Hz to 40 kHz. It delivers an incredibly punchy and vivid sound, offering crisp transient responses, massive distortion-free sub-bass, and clear, non-fatiguing mid frequencies perfectly suited for rock and metal. A standout feature is its powerful two-stage Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) and phenomenal passive noise isolation, which seamlessly blocks external drum noise without altering the sound profile. Operating via Bluetooth 5.3 with a massive 45-hour battery life or an included 1.75-meter cable, it includes a premium high-quality silcone case and an intuitive smartphone app. The app lets users create highly personalized, independent sound profiles for the left and right ears via an integrated hearing test. Despite its premium performance, the review highlights a few notable design and hardware limitations. Its primary physical disadvantage is an exceptionally high headband clamping force; while this keeps the headphones perfectly secure during intense drumming, it pushes the ear cushions too thin and causes the hard inner...

bonedo.de

06/11/2024

Summary of the review

Zildjian Alchem-E Perfect Tune Headphones Review

The Zildjian Alchem-E Perfect Tune headphones provide a powerful, bass-heavy, and highly detailed sound profile designed to bridge the gap between dedicated drumming headphones and everyday lifestyle products. Weighing approximately 350 grams, these over-ear headphones feature customizable, 40mm dynamic drivers that excel at delivering an immersive listening experience, especially for contemporary genres. A standout feature is the companion app's "Perfect Tune" hearing test, which diagnoses the user’s specific hearing drops—frequently correcting the mid-range dip common in drummers—and generates a customized equalizer profile. Furthermore, they feature an impressive battery life of up to 45 hours via USB-C charging and a unique two-stage active noise-cancelling (ANC) system. This system includes a 50% "Playalong-Mode" that allows drummers to easily play along to backing tracks while retaining enough acoustic awareness of their live drum kit. Pros and Cons Powerful, detailed sound with punchy bass.High wearing comfort with easily replaceable headband and ear pads.Feature-rich app including tailored hearing profiles and genre EQ presets.Versatile use-cases spanning lifestyle listening, drum practice, and basic tracking.Expensive retail price (~€389 to €398).Mediocre microphone quality for voice calls.Initial Bluetooth pairing quirks...

jazzdrummerworld.com

13/01/2025

Summary of the review

Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune

Review Summary The Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune is a premium closed-back, over-ear Bluetooth headphone designed specifically for drummers and musicians, priced at approximately 364 CHF. Weighing roughly 356 grams, it features an attractive design with golden accents available in Black, Midnight, and Sandstorm finishes. Inside, it utilizes 40mm dynamic drivers that deliver a transparent, highly detailed sound with powerful bass across an 8Hz to 40kHz frequency spectrum. The headphone comes packaged with a rubber carrying case, a USB-C charging cable, replaceable ear pads, a mini-jack audio cable, and a 6.3mm adapter. It boasts an impressive battery life of around 45 hours with Bluetooth and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) turned on, which increases even further when ANC is disabled. For drummer-specific functionality, the two-stage ANC includes a specialized "Playalong-Mode," enabling it to act as excellent hearing protection while practicing along with tracks behind a drum kit.

fr.audiofanzine.com

08/01/2026

Summary of the review

Zildjian Alchem-E Headphones Review - The Perfect Alchemy

The Zildjian Alchem-E is a closed-back, circumaural headphone designed primarily as a studio monitoring and practice tool for drummers, achieving an overall score of 8/10. It features 40 mm dynamic transducers and delivers an exceptionally low total harmonic distortion (THD) in active mode—measured at under 0.5% in the lows and under 0.05% above 100 Hz. The audio review highlights that the headphones offer a highly distinct, work-oriented sound signature featuring a robust, well-controlled bass and emphasized upper-mids that keep vocals and rhythmic transients sharp and intelligible. Additionally, it provides highly effective acoustic isolation and secure, memory-foam comfort despite a tight clamping force, alongside thoughtful accessories like a clever cable-management pod and a dual-sided 3.5 mm jack entry system. Conversely, this heavily tailored sonic profile means the headphones lack a linear treble and a natural lower-midrange, making them poorly suited as a traditional reference tool for mixing or standard "pleasure" listening. The accompanying mobile application is a weak point; its "Perfect Tune" acoustic calibration lacks precision, and the interface is confusing due to inverted visual representations between user curves and musical...

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