Fostex is expanding its high-end headphone lineup with two new premium over-ear models that blend flagship sound hardware with a fresh, more naturally styled finish. Meet the Fostex TH810 and TH818, a closed-back and open-back pair outfitted with striking acacia wood housings.
What makes these new headphones especially interesting for audiophiles is that Fostex isn’t positioning them as a “lite” version in performance. The TH810 and TH818 are built with the same core components found in the company’s previously introduced top-tier TH910 and TH919 headphones. The big difference comes down to materials and aesthetics: instead of the more costly Japanese-lacquered maple housings with decorative patterning, the TH810 and TH818 use acacia wood—still premium-looking, but more cost-conscious.
At the heart of both headphones is Fostex’s 50mm BioDyna driver. The company says the driver has been updated with a new voice coil and a revised driver surround, with the goal of delivering cleaner bass with fewer artifacts and less muddiness. For listeners who care about detail and extension, the specs are clearly aimed at high-resolution playback: a frequency response rated from 12.5 Hz to 40,000 Hz, 25-ohm impedance, and 100 dB/mW sensitivity.
These are also designed with serious amplification in mind. Fostex rates the TH810 and TH818 to handle inputs up to 1,800 mW, and they ship with a 3.5 mm oxygen-free copper cable (7N). In other words, they should pair well with higher-power headphone amps and desktop setups, while still being workable with some portable sources depending on your gear.
Comfort and long-session wear appear to be a major focus too. Fostex uses a lightweight magnesium alloy construction that reportedly reduces weight by about 20% compared to prior models, bringing each headphone to 13.6 oz. (385 g). The headband is padded with natural sheepskin, while the ear pads use silk protein synthetic leather over contoured, dual-density urethane foam—materials chosen to balance softness, support, and durability.
As for availability, Fostex says the TH810 and TH818 are expected to start shipping in late April 2026 through authorized distributors worldwide, as well as the brand’s Amazon store. Pricing hasn’t been officially announced yet, but expectations point to a starting price around the $1,000 mark—placing them firmly in the premium audiophile category, especially for listeners who want flagship-grade internals with a distinctive acacia wood finish.
If you want, share whether you prefer open-back or closed-back listening (and what gear you’re using), and I can help you decide which of the two models is more likely to fit your setup and music tastes.
