Denon D2000

The Denon D2000 was the “lower-end” model of the D2000-5000-7000 line of bio-cellulose drivers OEMed by Foster and branded by Denon.

It’s the first entry in the big family of Foster 443742 driver based headphones : D2000, D5000, D7000 between 2008 and 2012, then TH600/TH900, followed by the TH610 in 2015 and finally the Massdrop editions (TH-X00, E-mu Teak). Among these, the D2000 is the only one without wood cups.

They are quite comfortable, with plush pleather pads but would still benefit from more padding on the headband. The build is decent, except for the fragile hinges that can break easily, and it’s a known build issue since years in all the Fostex/Denon models.

○ Release : 2008
○ Current status : Discontinued
○ Type : Over-ear / Closed-back
○ Measured weight : 370g
○ Impedance : 25 Ohms
○ Sensitivity : ~97.5 dB/mW
○ Average used price : $140-200

 

Sound Impression
The D2000 is the second Foster biodyna I’ve owned, after the TH-X00 Mahogany. They sound definitely different. While the TH-X00 has a slightly V-shaped balance with good amount of thickness and warmth, the D2000 is V-shaped but towards a leaner / brighter tone.

Bass is still elevated with solid impact, but lacks the thunderous bass-head rumble of the TH-X00. Probably lacking impact below 30hz, and sounding a bit too loose. Midrange is a recessed with lack of bite in the upper-midrange, which is the usual response with the Foster biodynas headphones. The treble is a bit aggressive and hot around 7-10 khz, quite more than the X00 or E-mu Teak.

Another big difference with the TH-X00 is clarity and soundstage. The D2000 is much more “open” sounding than the X00, mostly because of the bigger ear pads openings. Wider stage and, combined with the elevated treble, better clarity perception (but brighter and more fatiguing). No difference in resolution and dynamics.

The D2000 is a very good buy, used around $200, as long as you like slightly V-shaped / bright tonality. It has very good technicalities for that price, nearly identical to the D5000 or TH-X00. 

Measurements & Resources

Bass extends well down to 30 Hz, with a flat midrange until 1 kHz and a moderate recession from 1 to 4-5 kHz. Treble is isn’t above midrange level but still sounded quite harsh and agressive.