Final Audio D8000 DC Pro Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones

A higher-level listening-volume tuning of Final's redesigned AFDS platform with silver-coated cables, expanded driver opening, and thicker washi-fabric ear pads

The Final Audio D8000 DC Pro applies Final's Pro tuning to the completely redesigned D8000 DC platform. The initials DC stand for Da Capo, or "from the beginning," reflecting the extent to which Final revisited the original D8000 architecture rather than simply modifying individual parts.

The driver manufacturing process, Air Film Damping System, magnet structure, housing, ear pads, and overall weight were all reconsidered. The DC Pro retains the detailed high-frequency reproduction and unusually open, substantial bass of Final's AFDS planar design while using a tonal balance intended for listeners who prefer higher playback levels.

Pro Tuning for Higher Listening Levels

The D8000 DC and D8000 DC Pro share the same fundamental mechanical platform, but they are not identically tuned. Final accounts for the way human hearing changes with playback level: as listening volume increases, low frequencies become perceptually easier to hear.

The DC Pro is adjusted around this behavior while retaining the fine-detail characteristics of the standard D8000 DC. Final therefore positions the two models according to listening level rather than describing the Pro as simply a universally upgraded version of the standard model.

Advanced Air Film Damping System

AFDS was originally developed to overcome a limitation of planar magnetic drivers at large low-frequency excursions. As the diaphragm moves farther, it can approach the surrounding magnet structure. Conventional designs must limit that motion or rely on acoustic loading to compensate for the resulting restriction in bass extension.

Final instead uses the viscosity of the air between the diaphragm and perforated metal structure to control diaphragm movement. For the D8000 DC generation, the diameter, spacing, and pattern of the perforations were redesigned, with different patterns used on the front and back of the diaphragm.

This allows substantial diaphragm excursion while retaining the ultra-light moving system of a planar magnetic driver. The conductor is formed from extremely thin etched aluminum foil on the diaphragm, avoiding the separate bobbin, concentrated voice-coil mass, and adhesive joints required by a conventional dynamic driver.

Approximately 70% Greater Front-Side Open Area

The original D8000 placed a magnet structure in front of the diaphragm. Final determined that this could contribute to small peaks and dips, so the DC-generation driver eliminates the front magnet.

The resulting opening in front of the driver is approximately 70% larger than on the previous generation. Reducing the amount of physical structure between the diaphragm and ear improves high-frequency reproduction and allows individual sounds to emerge with greater precision.

Thicker Washi-Fabric Ear Pads

AFDS gives the driver sufficient low-frequency extension to work with unusually breathable ear pads. Instead of creating bass primarily by sealing the volume around the listener's ear, Final allows the planar driver itself to provide the required low-frequency output.

The open-type pads combine breathable foam with a special fabric incorporating Japanese washi paper. In the DC generation, Final increased the pad thickness to 1.5 times that of the previous design, expanding the acoustic volume around the ear. Final associates the change with a larger sound field and smoother reproduction through the vocal range.

The headband uses the same washi-based material for a dry feel, resistance to moisture, and long-term durability.

Precision-Machined Aluminum-Magnesium Housing

The D8000 DC Pro's housing is machined from aluminum-magnesium alloy to provide the rigidity and dimensional accuracy required by AFDS. The Pro version receives a hard-anodized finish.

The redesign also reduces the headphone's weight by approximately 100 g compared with the previous-generation D8000 Pro Edition. At 431 g without cable, the DC Pro is substantially lighter while retaining a rigid metal chassis.

Production takes place at Final's headquarters in Kawasaki, Japan. Final designs and manufactures its own assembly jigs as well as specialized diaphragm-forming and diaphragm-tension measurement equipment.

Repairable Construction

Almost all of the major components are designed to be separated using screws. This gives Final access to individual assemblies for long-term service and avoids making the complete headphone dependent on permanently bonded structural parts.

Silver-Coated Cables

The D8000 DC Pro includes two detachable silver-coated OFC cables. The 1.5 m cable terminates in a balanced 4.4 mm connector, while the 3 m cable uses 4-pin XLR. Both connect to the headphones through locking 3.5 mm connectors.

A lockable dedicated protective case and security key are also included.

What's Included

D8000 DC Pro headphones

1.5 m detachable silver-coated OFC cable with 4.4 mm balanced connector

3 m detachable silver-coated OFC cable with 4-pin XLR connector

Dedicated protective case

Security key

Specifications

Model Number: FI-D8DPPAL

Type: Open-back planar magnetic headphones

Housing: Aluminum-magnesium alloy

Driver: AFDS planar magnetic

Sensitivity: 90 dB/mW

Impedance: 50 Ω

Headphone-Side Connectors: 3.5 mm, 2-pole with locking mechanism

Included Cable 1: Silver-coated OFC, 4.4 mm balanced, 1.5 m

Included Cable 2: Silver-coated OFC, 4-pin XLR, 3 m

Weight: 431 g