Introduction

Hello, I'm Zoltan, the lead behind MX RAY, and I'm joined by Thomas in our pursuit of redefining premium headphones. Our journey began with the MF-1, borne out of frustration with the lackluster offerings in the premium headphone market. After countless disappointments with various brands, we decided to take matters into our own hands.

During the development of the MF-1, we delved deeply into the intricacies of what truly makes a pair of headphones exceptional. Now, taking the insights we've gained through our research, we have applied them to improve on as many elements as possible, and bring yet another truly unique product to the market.

The Evolution to CF-1

Building on the success and insights gained from the MF-1, we continued our journey to create an even better product—the CF-1. Our meticulous attention to detail again extends to every aspect of the design. The CF-1 features the same beryllium membrane driver used in the MF-1, known for its exceptional rigidity, wide frequency response, and unmatched dynamics.

The most significant difference with the CF-1 is the carbon fiber plate attached to and surrounding the driver, which significantly enhances clarity and detail in the sound.  Individual instruments are much easier to discern, without compromising on the energy and bass performance.

Beyond the drivers, the CF-1's construction still reflects our commitment to excellence. We carefully consider airflow and pressure, incorporating specifically chosen vent hole sizes with built-in adjustment. Our choice of building materials is curated to control vibration and resonance, while the interior chamber is precisely tuned to optimize reflection, refraction, and absorption, ensuring the best sound signature possible. Unlike our competition, who often end up with excessively large resonating cavities and materials that detract from sound quality, we refuse to compromise.

We're not just making headphones; we strive to further understand why headphones sound the way they do, and by extension, make the most awesome headphones out there. Our design philosophies also prioritize the right to repair, ensuring ease of manufacturing and maintenance. All parts will be available on our website, ensuring that no listener will go without the optimal experience due to a broken screw or missing piece.  

Why CF-1?

Aside from the stellar audio quality, the CF-1 also includes a number of features which are worth considering:

Alongside the standard 3.5mm input ports, the CF-1 also features QDC style input ports. These are commonly used on IEMs, allowing you unfettered access to the multitude of accessories available for those, including wireless Bluetooth options.  Not only is the cable replaceable for sustainability, but also upgradeable and customizable to your exact preferences.

Specifications:

• MXB 50mm beryllium-coated dynamic driver
• 4Hz-23KHz frequency response
• 24Ω impedance
• 320g total weight

Included with the CF-1 is the FiiO KA13 DAC.  With USB connectivity, and 550mW of output power, this is the ideal DAC for driving your CF-1 (or any other headphones). We stand by this DAC for driving all but the highest impedance headphones.

Also included are a myriad of other accessories, including:

• Carrying case

• 16-core 4.4mm -> 2x3.5mm audio cable

• 4.4mm to 3.5mm adapter

   

• 3.5mm to 6.5mm adapter

• FiiO KA13 USB-C DAC/amp

• USB-C to USB-C cable

• USB-C to Lightning cable

• USB-C to USB-A adapter

• Repair kit (contains all tools needed to disassemble and reassemble)

• Driver tuning kit (instructions provided)

The CF-1's easily interchangeable pads allow for a highly varied audio experience, no matter your preferences.  Different sizes and materials will be available to purchase, so that you can fine tune your experience however you see fit.  Additionally, our unique vent hole adjustment system can further fine-tune your listening experience, even with the standard ear pads.

Timeline

What We Need

We successfully reached our $30,000 goal on Kickstarter! But, we still need your help to grow. With your support, we'll be able to grow our company further, get headphones in people's hands, and revolutionize the premium headphone market.

With your purchase on Indiegogo, you'll be enjoying a hefty discount, while also furthering our goals. Thank you!

Contributing to our project goes beyond just supporting a product; it's about being a part of something truly special.

The CF-1 represents a culmination of our dedication to redefining premium audio. With Thomas's keen ear and invaluable contributions, we've pushed the boundaries of what's possible, continuously striving for perfection. Our commitment to excellence means that every backer will receive a product that has been meticulously crafted and fine-tuned to deliver an unparalleled audio experience. Our attention to detail and unwavering dedication have been instrumental in refining the CF-1 to its current state.

Your contribution isn't just a financial investment; it's a vote of confidence in our vision and a testament to your belief in the power of innovation. Together, we can make a difference in the world of audio technology and create something truly extraordinary.

Other Ways You Can Help

We understand that not everyone is in a position to contribute financially, but that doesn't mean you can't still make a difference. Spread the word! Tell your friends, family, and colleagues about MX RAY. Share it on social media, post it in online communities, and spread the word far and wide. Your enthusiasm and support can go a long way in helping us reach our funding goal. Whether it's through email, social media platforms, or other channels, every share helps us reach a wider audience and brings us one step closer to our goal.

About Us

Since 1989 in Ontario, DNR Tech Group has evolved from an electronics and manufacturing powerhouse to a diversified online entity, developing and showcasing products like Pro Photo Accessories and Pro Optics. Zoltan leads ZN Design, emphasizing minimalism in form, function, and graphics. DNR's journey is marked by CNC, EDM, and CAM integration since 1993, growth in automotive and aerospace sectors, and a robust R&D emphasis since the early 2000's.  DNR envisions a future of sustained growth, innovation, and collaboration. We actively welcome partnerships, leveraging our vast experience and knowledge, promoting scientific experimental development.

MX RAY Audio, committed to enhancing music reproduction, introduced the MF-1 headphones, a project long envisioned by Zoltan. Now, with the CF-1, we are pushing the boundaries even further. Backed by MX RAY Studios, pioneers in PC-based music systems and DAWs, we are at the audio industry's forefront. We've revolutionized sound with 3 and 6-way amplifications, using THX. Key undertakings include mods on Sony's XB700, Bluedio's Victory & V2, and partnerships with brands like KZ and Edifier. Zoltan Beregszaszi, a mechanical and sound engineer, is the driving force behind MX RAY, and Thomas Sebestyen, an audio engineer with Grade 10 Conservatory level graduation, have both contributed significantly, bolstered by their individual musical projects MX Ray and Beathoven. They are early adopters of MAGIX and FL Studio and featured under the Darkfield label.

Review Video

Below is a video review of our current headphones, the MF-1.  Nearly all of the parts and construction are shared between the MF-1 and the CF-1, except that the CF-1 is even more detailed and accurate than the MF-1, without sacrificing anything.

MX RAY Processes & Philosophies

It’s easy to get lost in metrics like target curves and treat them as gospel. But, as we have discovered time and time again, no single graph or number can tell the whole story of what you’ll actually hear.

Traditional headphone measurement lumps everything together, including any noise and distortion, despite the fact that our ears perceive these elements of sound differently.  

A frequency response curve almost never reflects what you actually hear. Differences in measurement processes create significant deviations.  A “perfect measurement” doesn’t translate into a “perfect sound.”  Your brain performs intricate processing, invisible to our perception but affecting the results all the same.

Like others, we use advanced testing procedures, and take many measurements, but we also listen with our ears, to be sure the tuning aligns with the immersive experience we expect. This step is crucial in our philosophy.

At MX RAY Audio, we conduct both objective and subjective testing, making sure our headphones are for real listeners, not just idealized graphs. We take feedback very seriously, and continue tweaking our design until it meets expectations.  We pride ourselves in adapting to everyone's perception, and not just the shape of a graph.

Our custom drivers are engineered to maximize precision without sacrificing enjoyment. Our proprietary system of airflow, pressure, and dampening breathes life into each track with rich dynamic range.  We obsess over every detail about how sound waves interact with your ears, striving for a sound signature that is immersive, but also accurate.

Technical Details

Audio Development Procedures

We begin tuning with uncompensated frequency response measurements, benchmarking against reference headphones like the HD800 and HD600. Self-developed tests refine the sound for clarity, low-end energy, and emotional resonance, aiming to emulate setups of much higher cost and sophistication. Our advanced techniques such as airflow, pressure, and acoustic manipulation ensure immersive and realistic sound reproduction.

Technology and Innovation

Our custom MXB drivers are engineered for precision and dynamic range, while TTS Technology integrates materials and design for accurate sound modulation. Final tuning involves consensus-driven listening tests and equal loudness principles to balance bass, treble, and mid-tones across all volumes. Perception-focused tests align the auditory experience with natural human hearing, going beyond raw data.

Testing and Measurement

Our custom rigs and adapters ensure precise measurements for over-ear and in-ear headphones, providing a baseline for designs that prioritize human auditory perception. Benchmark comparisons and real-world listening tests refine sound quality, leveraging the brain's natural filtering abilities. From measurements to subjective tests, every step focuses on delivering a seamless, immersive experience while pushing the boundaries of headphone design.

Progress Photos