I recently had the pleasure of testing Warwick Acoustics’ Bravura electrostatic system, which includes the Bravura headphones and the Sonoma M1 Energizer/DAC. This high-end audio setup intrigued me as an audiophile, especially given the promise of an exceptional listening experience through its electrostatic design. After extensive exploration, I’m happy to share my insights and impressions.
Look and build
Warwick Acoustics’ Bravura system immediately impresses with its high-quality construction and thoughtful design. The Sonoma M1 Energizer/DAC’s aluminium housing and components feel incredibly durable and premium. The dimmer knob and switches are robust and easy to use, reflecting the meticulous craftsmanship that defines this system.
Available in silver and black, the aesthetic is sleek and understated, embracing simplicity with limited controls that avoid the feeling of operating a spaceship. This minimalist design reduces potential points of failure, which improves reliability. I did notice the black color option comes with a higher price tag, though, though the reason for this is unclear other than its limited availability.
I personally tested the silver edition and it matched the Bravura headphones perfectly. The design, from the vent to the driver housing, is seamless and cohesive, contributing to a visually pleasing setup. Both the headphones and the amp are durable and have excellent heat management that prevents the amp from getting excessively hot despite its power.
Comfort
Comfort is key in any headphone design, especially for extended use. The Bravura headphones feature soft ear cushions and a thick magnesium headband that, over time, conforms to the user's head. However, the clamping force is noticeably strong (the strongest I've ever experienced), making them less comfortable for those who wear glasses or hats. While the headband does conform to the shape of the head over time, the intensity of the clamping force hinders overall comfort.
The amplifier, although bulky, justifies its weight with its powerful specifications. Its size is a necessary trade-off for the high performance it offers.
Design and features
The Bravura system displays a seamless integration of design and functionality. The ESS Sabre Reference DAC built into the amplifier is both practical and high-performance, ensuring excellent sound quality. However, the absence of a DAC bypass mode means that even when using an external DAC, the dual 32-bit chips remain active.
The Class A amplifier features ultra-low distortion and operates at a high bias level to perfectly power electrostatic headphones. Additionally, it utilizes a premium AKM ADC and a custom 64-bit dual-precision fixed-point DSP, contributing to a high-precision, ultra-low noise, and low-distortion system.
A minor design consideration is the Ultra-phonic cable, which, while high quality, is stiff and unique to the amplifier. This stiffness can transmit noise, but the headphones' high clamping force ensures stability, minimizing movement-induced noise.
Auditory impressions
Sound scene
The Bravura system delivers an expansive and immersive soundstage. When listening to My Bloody Valentine’s “Cigarette in your bed,” the reverberation of the pads and guitars created a wide, enveloping soundscape, while vocals and drums felt more intimate and defined. Accurate imaging, aided by a slight roll-off in the low frequencies, makes these headphones ideal for professionals who require precise audio fidelity.
On Yosi Horikawa’s “Bump,” subtle panning shifts were incredibly clear, showcasing the headphones’ ability to reproduce both detail and expansive moisture. The soundstage height and width rival some of the best flagship headphones, making the Bravura a competitive option in its price range.
Low
The Bravura headphones deliver unobtrusive yet accurate bass, with a flat, reference-quality response. On Clique's “Rack Everything That You Need,” the kick drums are tight and punchy, with transients accurately captured. While the low end may not be as impactful as bass-heavy headphones, the overall balance and timbre were satisfying.
For those who enjoy a neutral sound, the bass is ample and not fatiguing. However, tracks like Failure's “Pillowhead” revealed a slight lack of boomy bass quality that some listeners might prefer on headphones like the Fostex TH-808. The Bravura system prioritizes clarity and balance, which may not satisfy bass enthusiasts, but it offers an honest representation of the music.
Media
The Bravura system's midrange performance stands out as its signature feature. Vocals, guitars, and drums all have a fantastic timbre, providing a rich listening experience. On Ichika Nito's “Late Night Walk,” the bright guitar tones were clear and full-bodied, and blended seamlessly with the static noise effects due to the headphones' flat tuning.
The slight boost around 1kHz adds punch and character, allowing these electrostatics to excel in a variety of musical genres. Similar to the Sennheiser HD600 but with improved clarity and balance, the Bravura system shines in the mids, making it perfect for both casual listening and professional use.
Maximums
Warwick Acoustics has done an exceptional job of tuning the Bravura headphones. Unlike some electrostatic models that can be overly bright, these headphones follow the Harman curve, achieving a balanced high-frequency response. On Stan Getz's “Litha,” the cymbals exhibited fantastic clarity without sounding harsh or overwrought.
I appreciated the harmonic details in “Liebestraum No. 3,” performed by Daniel Barenboim. The headphones picked up the dynamic and timbral changes beautifully, providing an analytical but not fragile listening experience. For those sensitive to treble, the Bravura system delivers smooth, detailed highs without overwhelming the listener.
Verdict
Warwick Acoustics’ Bravura electrostatic system delivers an exceptional audio experience, characterised by its precise and expansive soundstage, high-quality construction and impeccable attention to detail. Although the headphone’s clamping force may be too strong for some and the bass may not satisfy all listeners, the system excels in clarity, balance and detail across the entire frequency spectrum.
For audiophiles and professionals looking for a high-end reference system, the Bravura offers a compelling option that combines cutting-edge technology with exceptional sound quality. Whether analyzing complex mixes or simply enjoying your favorite tracks, the Bravura system from Warwick Acoustics delivers a captivating and immersive listening experience that sets a new standard in the world of electrostatic headphones.
