The first-generation V-Moda Crossfade Wireless were born out of a simple idea: to cut the cord, but keep all the elements that made them a success intact. The second iteration, the aptly named V-Moda Crossfade Wireless II, follow the same principle while also bringing a few interesting improvements to the table.
The new headphones sport redesigned headband and earpads, which should result in better comfort, but the general look remains untouched – so they appear as a somewhat aggressive, very modern pair of headphones. There’s new colours, too: Matte White and posh Rose Gold join the already available Matte Black. Much like the V-Moda Forza Metallo, the V-Moda Crossfade Wireless II can be customized with 3D printed shields in all sorts of shapes and materials – there’s even 14k gold and platinum available, if that’s your kind of thing (and if your wallet is capable enough). They seem to be 3D sculpted just half an hour of subway from my home, too, in Milan.
They’re also foldable for better portability and come with a hard case; the package also includes a cable with a 1-button remote and microphone and a micro-USB cable to charge them.
The V-Moda Crossfade Wireless II are Hi-Res Audio certified by the Japan Audio Society when used in wired mode. The company highlights their “lifelike vocals, crystal clear cymbals and crispy hi-hats with an ultra hi-res sparkle and velocity”. This is due to the new 50 mm dual-diaphragm driver: it should help separate bass, midrange and treble without them overlapping. They have a 5 – 40,000 Hz frequency response, 100 dB sensitivity (@ 1 kHz, 1 mW) and 32 Ω impedance.
Although they are wireless, they can be used with the cable, too, even when there’s no battery left. The company claims there is “virtually identical sound” in wireless and wired mode; I guess this is thanks to the apt-X codec (on the Rose Gold version), although I beg to differ anyway given the bandwidth limitations of Bluetooth. They do not feature any noise-cancelling feature as the ones found on the Sony MDR-1000X or Bose QuietComfort 35.
The battery has 430 mAh capacity which, the company claims, should make the headphones last up to 14 hours. This is a sizeable improvement over the previous generation, although it comes with a little drawback: the weigh increases by 17 g and sits at 309 g.
The V-Moda Crossfade Wireless II are already available for purchase for $330 on V-Moda’s website, with included free shipping in the US.
