Aiaiai TMA-2 – Studio Preset Review

With the TMA-2 modular headphone system, Aiaiai offers an enticing option for users that’s all about individuality. Currently, customers can choose from a total of 22 individual components, with products split between four distinct categories. There’s four speaker drivers to choose from, along with a choice of four headbands, seven ear cushion variants, plus a selection of seven different cables. All you need to do is pick your preferred option from each to put together your desired system. Alternatively, you can opt for a pre-configured arrangement. This Studio Preset model is one such option.

Specifically for Studio Use

With this studio pre-configured system, Aiaiai have opted for the H03 padded headband, the S03 speaker (assigned the moniker ‘Warm’), the circumaural E04 ear cushions, as well as the C02 spiral cable (measuring 1.5 – 3.2 metres and including mini jack adapter). As with all models from the TMA-2 series, the four components can be assembled together in just a few easy steps. The assembled headphones look stylish and sophisticated, with a high-quality matt black finish, while there’s an impressive level of wearing comfort thanks to ample padding.

ADVERTISEMENT

Sound

Sound reproduction courtesy of the S03 speaker modules is definitely something deserving of praise. Across the entire frequency spectrum, the S03 performs confidently and with plenty of power, without suffering from any overemphasis. In fact, I’ve rarely encountered headphones that have delivered such a fine balance between fatigue-free playback and precision. In direct comparison to its predecessor, the TMA-1, these speakers deliver a similar frequency-related experience as when the curtain rises after the ads have played before the feature at the movies to make room for the super wide screen. It’s impressive, without doubt. However, if you turn to an extreme high-frequency tweeter such as the Phonon SMB-02 for reference, it’s clear that the manufacturer’s sound philosophy still leans a little closer to the bass than anything else.

ADVERTISEMENT

Successful Preset

The Studio Preset arrangement of components from the TMA-2 system is a complete success. Wearing comfort is very good, while the design and haptic credentials of the complete system are excellent. The relaxed-yet-wide-format sound of the S03 drivers is definitely convincing and confident, although it might not quite as agile in the high-frequency range as the S04 or S01. However, it certainly allows for hours of fatigue-free work in the studio.