Zildjian, a name synonymous with high-quality cymbals, is now making waves in the audio world with the introduction of their Alchem-e Perfect Tune headphones. These $400 noise-canceling cans offer a unique blend of audiophile features and a distinct percussionist-focused design, marking Zildjian’s first foray into the headphone market.
The Alchem-e Perfect Tune boasts a striking design that reflects Zildjian’s heritage. The headphones, available in three colors, feature the company’s iconic script logo, a design element that’s been synonymous with Zildjian for decades. The earcups house 40mm drivers capable of producing an impressive frequency response of 8Hz-40kHz, extending well beyond the range of human hearing and delivering powerful sub-bass effects.
The headphones are controlled via an oversized knob reminiscent of a guitar amp, offering a tactile and familiar experience for musicians. Zildjian claims the Alchem-e Perfect Tune provides up to 45 hours of battery life with noise cancellation enabled. They also feature Bluetooth 5.3 with SBC and AAC codecs, allowing for high-quality wireless audio streaming. For wired connections, a 3.5mm cable is included, with the port strategically placed on the left earcup to minimize cable noise.
However, the true essence of these headphones lies in their percussion-centric design. The Alchem-e Perfect Tune boasts several features specifically tailored for drummers. These include easily replaceable ear cushions and a headband liner, ensuring a comfortable and customizable fit. Furthermore, the headphones feature a special noise-canceling setting called ‘Play-along,’ which allows drummers to hear their instruments clearly while still blocking out distracting background noise.
Despite their emphasis on percussion, the Alchem-e Perfect Tune also delivers impressive audio performance. The headphones are equipped with a dedicated Zildjian app for sound personalization, EQ adjustments, and ANC customization. With a robust build and a weight of 12.5 ounces, they fall just shy of the Apple AirPods Max in terms of weight, making them relatively heavy among wireless headphones.
The Alchem-e Perfect Tune package includes the headphones, a soft silicone carry case, a USB-C charging cable, a 3.5mm cable, and a 1/4-inch adapter. While Zildjian hasn’t officially confirmed Bluetooth multipoint support, it would be surprising if this feature isn’t included.
Overall, the Zildjian Alchem-e Perfect Tune headphones represent a bold entry into the headphone market. With their unique combination of percussion-focused features, high-quality audio performance, and a distinctive Zildjian design, they offer a compelling option for musicians and audiophiles alike.
