Ovidius TX-901 Review – Beta Test

Comparisons –

Grado SR325X ($295): Never thought I’d see the day when I’d be describing a Grado headphone as the more balanced option. However, with the new X-series, the company has made large strides in this direction. The SR325x is a more balanced headphone altogether, especially in the midrange. It has a warmer, slightly fuller mid-bass and less extension with the TX-901 sounding considerably deeper-extending, tighter and more defined overall. The SR325X has a bit more mid-bass impact but falls behind technically.

The midrange, however, is more honest and present on the SR325X. It has large, forward vocals with a natural voicing and timbre. The TX-901 sounds laid-back and veiled, especially by comparison to the clearly expressed Grado model. Above, the SR325x has a bit more brightness and crispness in the lower-treble crispness and a similar amount of air. However, it lacks the same note definition and extension and sparkle as the Ovidius which is quite noticeably more resolving overall. Both have similar soundstage width but the Grado has a more authentic sense of depth and centre image.

Hifiman Sundara ($299): Once similarly priced, the Sundara can now be had for vastly less and represents the headphone to beat around this price range. The Sundara sounds considerably more balanced and has a slightly more comfortable fit unless you have especially wide ears. The TX-901 has a slightly more dynamic sub-bass and a slightly more defined impact. It sounds slightly bassier as its midrange is more laid-back by comparison. Meanwhile, the Sundara sounds slightly cleaner tonally with better separation and similar control.

The Sundara has much more midrange presence and a far more natural voicing. Overall, this gives its presentation is more separated, less veiled voicing. The Ovidius has a slightly more focused lower-treble with a bit more bite to the leading edge of notes. The Sundara has a bit more note body and texture but a smoother note presentation altogether. The Hifiman strikes as being a little brighter and airier but with less sparkle at the very top. Despite this, it has a far more open and well-proportioned soundstage with better imaging.

Sendy Apollo ($499): The Apollo is likely the closest competitor on the market. Though arguably even more coloured, it sounds better adjusted to my ears, giving it a more clear cut identity and set of strengths. It’s also more comfortable with a lighter chassis and bigger, plusher pads but lacks the same heft and build quality. The Apollo has a bigger mid-bass giving it a fuller, punchier sound. The Ovidius sounds a bit more even-handed with a more natural bass timbre and a slightly more prominent sub-bass slam at the very bottom. Both are well-controlled and highly textured headphones.

Both also have a laid-back midrange with the Apollo sounding slightly more natural to my ears due to its greater treble presence that lifts clarity, articulation and presence. The Ovidius is not only roomier but lacks presence above, possessing greater veil in turn. The Apollo has more brightness around the middle-treble giving it greater clarity but also a splashier character. The Ovidius is a bit more even here with a more defined leading edge and greater sparkle with slightly better extension. However, the Apollo has a larger and more evenly proportioned soundstage which makes it a better all-rounder.  

Verdict –

I do enjoy reviewing headphones like these as you never know what to expect. Often these hidden gems punch above their weight and, without marketing expenditure, at a lower price than competitors. While the TX-901 has some unique properties and an interesting sound altogether, it is a very niche proposition in the same way as Grado’s headphones or the recently reviewed Sendy Audio Apollo. Those wanting a specific genre specialist will no doubt find much to love in their controlled, impactful low-end and sparkly, high-energy treble. However, general listeners won’t find much enjoyment in their congested, recessed midrange and unconventional imaging. I do laud Ovidius for the build quality of this headphone, it’s a lovely design and showcases impressive metalwork. Though a little wobbly, it fits comfortably and feels built to last. All of this adds up to a headphone that feels well-intentioned but not quite fully formed. The TX-901 is an honest first try for the new brand that feels specifically designed for genres with minimal focus on vocals and I think this will be a deal breaker for many.

The TX-901 is available from Linsoul (International) for $499 USD at the time of writing. I am not affiliated with Ovidius or Linsoul and receive no earnings from purchases made through these links.

Track List – 

Billie Eilish – dont smile at me

Bob Seger – Night Moves

Courtney Barnett – Rae Street

Cream – Wheels of Fire

Dire Straits – Communique

Dirty Loops – Next To You

Eagles – Hotel California

Elton John – Honky Chateau

Fleetwood Mac – Rumours

H.E.R – I Used To Know Her

Jasen – BYE

John Mayer – Continuum

Kanye West – Ye

Missy Higgins – The Sound of White

Radiohead – OK Computer

TALA – ain’t leavin` without you

The Beatles – Abbey Road

The weeknd – After Hours

Vampire Weekend – Father of the Bride