V-MODA over-the-ear headphones are very popular brand in the EDM world. Avicii, Martin Garrix, Pete Tong, Cosmic Gate, Funkagenda, and MAKJ are just a few of the big names sporting this brand in the studio as well as in the DJ booth; but are they as good as they say they are?
We set to find out if the V-MODA XS and the V-MODA Crossfade M-100 headphones were everything they were cracked up to be for professionals and for the EDM enthusiast. Can the average every day music listener find a V-MODA headphone that fits their lifestyle? Is it really a top-tier headphone for producers who demand excellent sound quality in the studio? Would they hold up for the on-the-go DJ who’s playing loud clubs every night? Let’s take a look… 
The $310 Crossfade M-100 Specs
- Type: Over-Ear Circumaural
Frequency Response: 5 – 30,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 103 dB @ 1kHz 1mW
Microphone Sensitivity: -42dB @ 1kHz
Impedance: 32 Ω
Weight: 280g
The $212 XS Specs
- Type: On-Ear Supra-aural
Drivers: 40mm Dual-Diaphragm High Fidelity (patent pending)
Frequency Response: 5 – 30,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 105dB @ 1kHz 1mW
Microphone Sensitivity: -42dB @ 1kHz
Impedance: 28.5Ω
Weight: 195g
The Facts
The M-100 was the 2013 DJ Mag Tech Award winner for best headphone
2-Year Premier Warranty: more than double industry average
Immortal Life Program: have no fear to use your headphones anywhere, with the V-MODA Immortal Life Program you get 50% off a replacement even if they are run over by a tank
60 Day Test Drive: V-MODA is so confident in the M-100 and XS as superior headphones, you have an unrivaled 60 day test drive guarantee
Pros of M-100
- Sound is excellent. Even turned up to 100 the bass never distorts the other levels. Sound remains crisp, clear and balanced even when pushed past normal listening levels.
- SteelFlex headband is comfortable on head and ears, yet sturdy to resist warping and damage. They’re not too heavy to wear for an extended period of time, and being a female sometimes I find headphones heavy that males do not.
- CLIQFOLD folding hinge allows headphones to be stored in a much safer, compact position. Much harder for earpieces to get broken.
- The steel and metal is used amazingly. Doesn’t add too much weight and is in all of the correct places that see the most wear and tear.
- You can customize the metal shields on the earpieces with your own design or logo and the laser engraving is very professional looking.
- Comes with 2 detachable, Kevlar-reinforced cables. One has a built-in adapter so you and friend can listen together easily, the other contains a SpeakEasy microphone cord that allows for great compatibility with your iPhone, Android or Windows phone.
- Tough exoskeleton case is perfect for travel.
“The only headphone I’ve seen that look good and still have amazing sound.”
[Avicii, GQ Magazine]
Cons of M-100
It’s hard for me to find a complaint with these headphones. Their design and construction was the culmination of expertise of music lovers, producers, DJs and musicians working together. People who know exactly how important sound is and who have also used enough bad headphones in their day to know how to make a good one. For females and those of you with small heads, you might find the memory foam ear cushion to be a little large and sound might leak in and out–but honestly, it’s barely noticeable and I’m stretching to find that critique.
Pros of XS
They share a similar build, modern design, and laser engraving of the M-100, but have some noticeable differences…
- The sound quality is great and very similar to the M-100.
- The smaller memory foam earpieces are perfect for me as a female with small ears.
- The gap between my head and the headband is greatly minimized compared to other headphones. They offer a very comfortable, snug fit.
- Great size for a every day listening or traveling headphone. The very streamlined build is less bulky than many pairs on the market today.
“You can wear cookie cutter headphones and look like everyone else, or you can wear V-MODA” [Morgan Page]
Cons of XS
The earpieces are small and may prove difficult for people with bigger ears. DJs/Producers may prefer the size of the M-100 for noise cancellation purposes in loud clubs.
Are They Worth It?
Yes!
V-MODA lists the Crossfade M-100 on their website for $310. If you’re a casual music enthusiast, these might be too expensive for your lifestyle. For less out-of-pocket expense I would recommend the V-MODA XS; however, if you can afford them, the M-100s are amazing quality headphones that are going to last through the normal wear and tear of life. There are other big name brand headphones on the market in this price range that are made out of plastic and they have broken on me during normal use–this won’t happen with V-MODA products. When you’re traveling from gig to gig and being the conductor of the wildest parties, you need a sturdy case and a sturdy headphone. DJs and producers, if you’re looking for a new pair of headphones look no further than the M-100. These were made for you and are worth every penny.
Girls and for those of you with smaller heads and ears, The XS are amazing headphones. I can’t wait to plug these into my iPhone and have them with me on the train. I will have amazing sound quality coming from a lightweight headphone that doesn’t feel bulky or restrictive in a crowded place.
Both the XS and the M-100 are top-tier headphones who deserve the recognition they’ve earned among EDM’s best producers, DJs and respected electronics critics. When I need a pair of headphones to scrutinize a song in detail in my home studio I’ll reach for the M-100s. When I need a pair of headphones to use on my train ride into work I’ll reach for the XS; and I’ll have some of the best quality headphones money can buy in both places.
Win A Pair Of V-MODA XS Headphones In Our Free Contest Here.
