The Diana line of ABYSS presents itself within the high-end audio environment with luxurious sound, build quality, and the latest technological innovations. Two different revisions to previous entries, the MRx and TC Signature, released this year with a very different take on their magnetic formula. Where does each jump? What should buyers know when deciding between them?
What You Get
| Mrx | TC signature |
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Look and Feel
Since they come from the same line, the main difference comes down to color and materials. The carbon and wood options of the MRx have concrete, solid patterns, making them a fun piece that fits almost any vibe. The contrasting teal graphics with neon yellow highlights on the TC Signature exude more confidence, giving the headphones a statement look worthy of a true luxury pairing. While I personally prefer the natural colored plate finish of the MRx, those who want a different personality in their gear will really like the TC Signature.
In terms of construction, they are almost identical. Both are made of aircraft-grade aluminum, a polymer-ceramic finish, a premium leather strap, and an Ultrasuede suspension strap. The only difference is the TC’s bass-infused ear pads, which further enhance the low end. However, these pads can be purchased independently through MRx. All these similarities meant that the difference in emotions was very small, which may have been caused by different technical aspects. I found the MRx to be light, and the TC Signature to be strong.
Design and performance
Being a reference headphone, the most important thing about the MRx is ensuring a flat frequency response. The Diana line of headphones is already known for its bass, especially with the TC Signature-pioneered Extended Bass Response, so there is a unique expectation of performance. Abyss meets the challenge with 63mm magnetic planar speakers designed with TC Signature’s EBR. The MRx driver setup aims to further tune the sound to further compress the low end, providing reference quality at all points of the range.
The TC signature uses its 63mm planar driver with EBR, but emphasizes its neodymium magnet and ultra fried diaphragm. Designed for standard reference quality, this driver is tuned to push clarity at all distances. More purpose is still given to the bass, with its integrated EBR and pad setup contributing to a range that moves 1 Hz below the MRx.
Switching between them, I noticed a big difference in the sound output. Even with the same low sensitivity, having twice the impedance of the MRx makes the TC signature a very quiet headphone. With this low sensitivity, both will still require an amplifier. For this review, I used the Questyle M18i, which duly gave both headphones the power they needed.
Sound stage
The soundstage of the MRx is incredibly diverse. Almost like a bell curve, perceived depth and shape appeared to correlate with proximity to the center of the sound. That doesn’t mean compromising on the polar edge; the farthest reaches of the stage are still given plenty of space, and the instruments feel carefully placed and layered accordingly. These qualities result in a more intimate listening experience, which helps the bass stand out better.
In contrast, the scale of the TC Signature feels proportionally larger. If music weren’t so important, they almost feel like they could go on forever. The precision in the placement of the metal was unique and detailed, giving this sense of infinite space a sense of dignity. Both of these models are incomparably larger class replacements, although their features are very different compared to your preferences.
The Low End
As a bass reference headphone, it should make sense that the low end is the MRx’s defining range. The MRx easily handles low notes with definition and grace made even more apparent by the close soundstage. While it doesn’t offer the range serious power, it does provide a dynamic low end with a sensible underbelly. All levels are given the right space to thrive, never feeling overwhelmed or trashed.
Abyss has also given the TC Signature a lot of attention to its bass range, but the priorities here are a little different. The headphones are a bit more powerful than the MRx, making for a powerful, if slightly smaller, range. Bass reproduction is still very good, unfortunately it falls short compared to a headphone that puts forward the range. Even with this very simple difference, the TC Signature’s big punch gives the headphones their ultimate statement.
Mids
The midranges in the MRx are certainly not overshadowed by the focus drop. Instruments and vocals are given the room and clarity they need to pop and shine, especially in the lower midrange. The vocals are especially powerful, made to surround the MRx’s intimate soundstage. Even with the best bass, the mids still hold up and are always a strong asset in the mix.
Less important to the bass, the TC Signature has more opportunity to push the mids. In addition, they are able to flourish, blessing the mix with a sharp and polished energy. The entire spectrum feels thoughtful and weighty. As was the case with the MRx, the TC Signature soundstage compliments the complexity offered by such a wide midrange.
They are high
Putting the focus elsewhere means the highs aren’t so bad. I’d say this point is more apparent on the MRx, which keeps the range relatively static. They are certainly not flexible, they are just reluctant to go anywhere that would cause light. All of this works to deepen the bass and lower the midrange, keeping much of the quality of the reference within the planned design.
The TC signature has a bit more to work with, but the pitch is still noticeably pushed. There is a sheen in the low end, but nothing that might feel uncomfortable inside such a large soundstage. Regardless, these are still great quality headphones for the price, so none of this is to say that any pair lacks purpose.
Summary
These Diana model programs both hold a competitive position within the sound of luxury. With its perfect bass approach, intimate sound stage, and comfortable construction, the MRx is a pure reference headphone that goes into supporting very low frequencies. In contrast, the TC Signature flexes an infinite range of sonic quality and stage presence, promoting the same appeal.
Deciding between headphones comes down to personal priorities. If you’re looking to add a bass headphone to your collection, the MRx makes a very strong case. However, those looking for a slightly less luxurious headphone can find more with the TC Signature.
MRx and TC Signature are available from Audio46.