STAX SR-L700 MK2 Electrostatic Headphones

Stax SR-L700 Mk2 – The Lambda Legacy Continues!

This is my third Stax earspeaker. Like my two companion Stax earspeakers (1982 SR-Lambda Pro, 2015 SR-507), the SR-L700 Mk2 puts a smile on my face to hear the familial Stax electrostatic sound. I am pleased to note they continue their “Made in Japan” quality workmanship. Significant improvements are in the ES driver unit design, detachable cable, non-adhesive snap-on earpads, better earcup swivel/clamping force, symmetric uniform thickness earpads, and metal earcup yokes. The most significant change is the greater earcup swivel that produces a more uniform clamping force around the ears for better comfort and seal. Likewise, the uniform thickness earpads are more comfortable compared to the previous designs with tapered padding/least padding at the front edge. No surprises, the SR-L700 Mk2 sound is electrostatic quick and detailed with no discernible distortion. Driven by the Stax SRM-400S, I have compared the Stax SR-L700 Mk2 to the SR-Lambda Pro, SR-507, Hifiman Jade II, and with its own energizer amp the Drop/Koss ESP95X. I liked the tuning of the SR-507 the most, followed by the SR-L700 Mk2, Jade II, SR-Lambda Pro, and lastly the ESP95X. The SR-507 has a V-shaped frequency response giving it a fun to listen character. The L700 Mk2 is the most comfortable, neutral and least fatiguing for extended listening. The Jade II has an airier brighter sound, with a softer presentation reminiscent of Hifiman’s planar magnetics. The SR-Lambda Pro is treble-centric but does have some low bass extension. It is not as fast and transparent sounding as the current generation thin-diaphragm electrostatic drivers. However, the Lambda Pro remains a working testament of Stax’s legacy. The ESP95X is too flawed in quality in comparison to Stax and Hifiman products. The ESP95X are mid-centric and thin sounding. They are an inexpensive listen, but need EQ. Some nitpicks: The attachment ends of the L700 Mk2 leather headstrap lack reinforcements/stiffeners to prevent the strap from flopping around and turning an annoying concave down direction after use. The asymmetric mesh dust cover is not well secured inside the earcup and its plastic frame may become a resonant source. Mine were not installed properly; I had to re-orient the frame so the wide edge was facing the front and not obstructing sound from the ES driver. Another big smile on my face as I enjoy the SR-L700 Mk2. It is yet another refinement in the Lambda legacy. Well done again Stax!

I have a lot of headphones including planars, ribbons, dynamic and everything in between but I’ve always had a soft spot for e-stats. The L700 MK2 is super comfortable (after a break-in period to loosen the head clamping force) and combined with the D-10, is an amazing “portable” system. Perfect for late-night listening sessions in bed and especially with classics or jazz music.

International Purchase

Great product! Astonishing resolution. Besides all the accurate reviews and praise what impressed me the most is that you get to listen the characteristics from the source gear used in the recordings such as compressors. Paired with a borrowed 353, I'm definetely investing in a new solid state from their newest line. I extremely recommend it for somebody who's looking for analytical listening. Great service from Headamp. Package was really well protected and arrived after two days of purchase.