HarmonicDyne Romantic test: headphones for music lovers

If you take a look around the world of headphones, you will quickly realize that there are countless models – from inexpensive entry-level devices to high-priced audiophile high-end models. The HarmonicDyne Romantic is positioned right in between: It is aimed at music lovers who value design, quality and character without having to spend a small fortune. HarmonicDyne is no longer an insider tip, at least since the popular Helios, and has made a name for itself for elegant designs and warm sound tuning. In the HarmonicDyne Romantic test, we took a look at the latest model, which aims to build on this and offer a musical, flowing sound.

Technical data

HarmonicDyne Romantic Test: Scope of delivery

• HarmonicDyne Romantic headphones
• Hybrid braided cable
• Headphone storage bag
• User manual
• Warranty card

HarmonicDyne Romantic Test: Design and workmanship

Visually, the HarmonicDyne Romantic definitely makes a statement, not least due to the generous use of metal. The eye-catching metal grilles on the outside of the ear cups in particular make them stand out from the crowd. If you’re looking for headphones with character, you definitely won’t get a one-size-fits-all look here. Metal is also used for the headband. You don’t have to worry about an uncomfortable fit.

Finally, HarmonicDyne uses artificial leather for the headband, which feels very comfortable on the head and can be individually adjusted to any head size. The use of metal elements in particular makes for a stable impression. Apart from that, I can only have positive things to say about the workmanship. Especially in direct comparison with other models in its price range, the Romantik is right at the top. The metal frame is stable and robust, but unfortunately not foldable.

The headband is softly padded and distributes the weight comfortably on your head. The ear pads themselves are made of breathable velour and do not feel uncomfortable even after several hours. This should pay off, especially in warm temperatures. Weighing around 370 grams, the headphones are not super light, but are still very comfortable to wear thanks to the well-balanced design – perfect for hours of music enjoyment.

As already mentioned, however, the HarmonicDyne Romantic is not suitable for mobile use. This is not only due to the lack of a foldable design. The open design also ensures that loud external noises penetrate unhindered through the outside of the ear cup. The music you listen to through the headphones is also audible to those around you. However, they are perfect for use at home or in a quiet study.

HarmonicDyne Romantic test: sound quality

Let’s move on to the most important point: the sound. And this is where the HarmonicDyne Romantic really lives up to its name.

General sound character

The Romantic is clearly designed for musical enjoyment and not for sober, analytical listening. Its sound character is warm and full, without becoming muddy or imprecise. The richness of detail in the sound must also be emphasized. This makes it easy to hear the different instruments in pieces of music.

It is particularly suitable for:

• Vocal-heavy music
• jazz
• classical music
• Acoustic
• Chillout / Ambient
• Indie and alternative genres

bass

Bass is one of the headphones’ greatest strengths – but not in the sense of exaggerated “boombox bass”, but rather in the audiophile style: deep, round and pleasant. This allows you to pick out bass guitar or double bass from tracks. You get a very natural bass tone here, which is noticeable but never pushes to the fore.

What’s particularly impressive is how controlled the bass remains, even with more complex tracks with lots of deep elements. However, if you like extremely punchy and aggressive bass (e.g. for EDM or hard electronic music), it might be a little too restrained for you. On the other hand, it is ideal for jazz, orchestral or relaxed electronic music.

Mids

This is where the Romantic’s real strength lies. The mids are warm, full and very present. Voices – especially female vocals – sound emotional, close and almost tangible. Acoustic instruments such as guitars, piano or strings also benefit greatly from this tuning. You get a very organic sound that quickly creates a feeling of closeness and intimacy when listening. So if you listen to a lot of singer-songwriters, ballads or live recordings, you’ll really like these headphones.

Treble

The trebles are rather gentle and restrained. They are clean and detailed enough without ever being aggressive or sharp. This makes the headphones extremely long-lasting. Especially if you are sensitive to sharp highs or often listen for long periods of time, this is a great advantage. However, if you are a fan of very analytical, brilliantly shimmering highs, you might miss a few percent of brilliance here.

Stage and spatiality

Thanks to its open design, the HarmonicDyne Romantic offers a wide and natural sound stage. Instruments are positioned cleanly in the room and you don’t have the feeling that everything is in your head. This is particularly noticeable with live recordings and classical music: You can locate which instrument is where pretty well – a real plus for anyone who values spatiality.

Conclusion

The HarmonicDyne Romantic are not headphones for everyone – but they are a real highlight for the right target group. If you are looking for headphones that offer a warm, relaxed and musical sound at a fair price, have an exceptional design, a very high-quality finish and are perfect for long listening sessions, then you will be very happy with the Romantic. They are less suitable if you are looking for neutral studio headphones rather than headphones for listening to music.

The Romantic are also not headphones for on the go. This is not only due to the open design. It is also not foldable. Music fans who prefer extremely crisp bass or strongly emphasized treble may also be a little disappointed by the Romantic. For everyone else, the HarmonicDyne Romantic offers a very convincing overall package in its price range. You don’t just get a pair of headphones, but an experience – for relaxed evenings, conscious listening to music and real moments of enjoyment.