I've got them both right here beside me, and while the 1 isn't broken in yet, early indications are that they're going to sound very similar if not the same when in passive mode.
The M4U2 in active mode without NC is still the best sound to my ears.
I've got them both right here beside me, and while the 1 isn't broken in yet, early indications are that they're going to sound very similar if not the same when in passive mode.
The M4U2 in active mode without NC is still the best sound to my ears.
Thank you for chiming in! If passive performance is, in fact, identical between the two models the M4U 1 could represent an excellent value. While they don't paint the complete picture, perhaps measurements could be produced in the (near) future...?
FWIW, I preferred the M4U 2 in passive and don't recall if I ever even felt compelled to engage the noise cancellation circuitry when I owned it.

Thank you for chiming in! If passive performance is, in fact, identical between the two models the M4U 1 could represent an excellent value. While they don't paint the complete picture, perhaps measurements could be produced in the (near) future...?
FWIW, I preferred the M4U 2 in passive and don't recall if I ever even felt compelled to engage the noise cancellation circuitry when I owned it.
Based on reviews, the M4U1 and MDR-IR would seem to have a similar signature. I am curious for a comparison.
Please don't take this as me being confrontational, but have there been any proper M4U 1 reviews? I'm extremely interested in reading them and, especially, direct comparisons to the M4U 2. I feel as though I'm hearing the 1 differently than the 2 on a technical level but, as I disclosed above, I can't be completely certain given the variables. (again, thank you PolkManiac for your input!)
In addition, based on the impressions from Anakchan and the recent quip from Jude I can't help but deduce that the M4U series performs quite a bit differently than the MDR-1R with the former boasting "boring" neutrality and the latter some "fun" coloring. Nothing beats a first-hand account in a user-controlled setting, however, so the particulars of the MDR-1R will most likely remain a mystery to me unless some contrasting opinions surface.
I haven't seen any. But then, nobody I know has got theirs yet.
I can snag a pair of these from a friend at $300. I do not need the amp but would use the ANC for planes, etc. I have a couple of questions.
1. Is $300 a relatively good deal for these in perfect condition?
2. I have a Fiio E11 and won't need the amp. I guess the amp functions when using ANC?
3. Do we know for sure if the newer versions of these have the headbands fixed? He got them from Crutchfield and they are relatively new, within 6 weeks.

I can snag a pair of these from a friend at $300. I do not need the amp but would use the ANC for planes, etc. I have a couple of questions.
1. Is $300 a relatively good deal for these in perfect condition?
2. I have a Fiio E11 and won't need the amp. I guess the amp functions when using ANC?
3. Do we know for sure if the newer versions of these have the headbands fixed? He got them from Crutchfield and they are relatively new, within 6 weeks.
1. I would say yes
2. There is also an amp option without NC
3. not sure
Yes, that helps indeed. Thank you.
Hello guys,
I'm very interested in these headphones but something bothers me : the remote. I plan to use them with my ipod/iphone 4.
What does it actually do? Does it have 3 buttons like every last gen remotes for iphone?
If I want to change the cable/remote, can I switch it to another brand (like the one sold by V-Moda)?
Thanks for your answers.

Hello guys,
I'm very interested in these headphones but something bothers me : the remote. I plan to use them with my ipod/iphone 4.
What does it actually do? Does it have 3 buttons like every last gen remotes for iphone?
If I want to change the cable/remote, can I switch it to another brand (like the one sold by V-Moda)?
Thanks for your answers.
It includes a cable with a one-button remote (and an audio-only cable). And, yes, a V-MODA cable's plug does fit in that narrow gap in the yoke, and works fine.
Because you asked, I'm using a V-MODA 3-button cable now with the M4U 1. Thanks for the idea! (I'm an iPhone user.)
I've had mine for a few days. I guess other people have the same issue, but when I'm near my laptop with them powered on I get a rapid wic-wic-wic sound just out of the right cup. usually goes away if i move away from the laptop, or once music plays. Interesting thing is if i start playing music and then stop, it doesnt come back unless I move my head right next to the monitor again. Anyways like the sound, but dont know if this is a defect or just a part of the headphone's active circuitry design.

I've had mine for a few days. I guess other people have the same issue, but when I'm near my laptop with them powered on I get a rapid wic-wic-wic sound just out of the right cup. usually goes away if i move away from the laptop, or once music plays. Interesting thing is if i start playing music and then stop, it doesnt come back unless I move my head right next to the monitor again. Anyways like the sound, but dont know if this is a defect or just a part of the headphone's active circuitry design.
Either way it doesn't sound good! It could be a problem with the shielding? Allowing the laptop to interfere? Though that is my inexperienced stab at it. I'd get in touch with them personally.
FYI my set has the cracks in the headband and the creaking left hinge. I called PSB and got a warranty replacement on the way. They should be here Monday so I will let everyone know on the new sets build quality. That's the only reservation on this headphone IMO.