Signeo Design International is bringing a piece of classic Japanese hi-fi nostalgia back into the spotlight with the Nakamichi Elite Pro P800JP, a new set of open-back planar magnetic headphones aimed at listeners who miss the brand’s audio heyday. Nakamichi’s roots go back to 1948 in Japan, where it built a reputation for premium cassette tape decks and serious sound quality. While the original company went bankrupt in 2002, the name lives on under Hong Kong-based Signeo Design, which is now steering the brand into modern high-fidelity territory again.
At the heart of the Elite Pro P800JP is a large 80 mm planar magnetic driver setup, built to deliver a flat and smooth tuning that prioritizes clarity and balance over exaggerated bass or sharp treble. Nakamichi is positioning these as headphones for pure music enjoyment, with a very wide stated frequency response of 10 Hz to 60 kHz—an attention-grabbing spec for anyone shopping the audiophile planar headphone category.
The technical ratings point to a design meant to pair well with quality sources. The headphones come in at 32 ohms impedance with 100 dB sensitivity, alongside a rated power of 10 mW and a maximum of 30 mW. For many listeners, that signals an easy enough load for capable portable players and desktop gear, while still being a product that will reward a clean, strong amplifier—especially considering the open-back planar format and its potential for expansive staging.
One of the standout choices here is the included detachable 4.4 mm balanced cable, a connection type favored by many audiophiles using balanced headphone amps and higher-end digital audio players. The cable uses 4N oxygen-free copper and connects to the earcups via mini-XLR terminals for a secure, premium feel. Nakamichi also emphasizes a three-core shielding structure designed to reduce interference from common modern noise sources like electromagnetic interference, RF signals, and even nearby Wi‑Fi—an increasingly relevant feature as listening setups often sit close to routers, PCs, and wireless devices.
Build-wise, the Elite Pro P800JP leans into a premium presentation with an aluminum body. The headphones measure 160 × 201 × 111 mm and weigh 710 g (about 25 oz.), making them a substantial, desk-focused option rather than a lightweight portable pair. As with many open-back headphones, the design is intended to create a wider stereo soundstage and a more spacious, natural presentation—ideal for detailed recordings, live performances, and listeners who want that “in the room” feeling.
Pricing is set by dealers, and in Japan the Elite Pro P800JP has been listed at 127,998 yen (around $820) through select retailers, including Fujiya Camera. For buyers considering a high-end planar magnetic headphone with a balanced connection and open-back soundstage, the Nakamichi Elite Pro P800JP is positioned as a fresh premium option—one that also taps into a brand legacy many audio fans still remember.
