V-MODA updated it’s Crossfade Wireless series with a new version. The first Crossfade Wireless was evolved from the wired Crossfade M-100, achieving impressive quality which I appreciate (read my review here).
The V-MODA Crossfade 2 Wireless looks identical to the other Crossfade headphones. You cannot tell them apart when you see someone wearing them. But the Crossfade 2 Wireless is foldable, just like Crossfade M-100. The Crossfade 2 also comes with the thicker ear cushions instead of the standard ear cushions, which is going to delight a lot of users who felt the original Crossfade ear cushions are too shallow and presses onto the ears.
Here are some features of the Crossfade 2 Wireless:
- Supports Hi-Res Audio up to 40kHz (with cable)
- Pairs 2 Bluetooth devices
- 14 hours battery life, 30-min quick charge for 3-hour
- Supports direct wired connection which cuts off power to save battery
- 50mm dual-diaphragm driver with inner and outer rings that separates bass from bleeding into the mids and highs
- Sleek design frame that makes the headphones firm and sturdy
- Steelflex headband that can survive bending 10+ times flat
- Durable cable and plug that can withstand bend over 1 million times
- Exoskeleton form-fitting case that is compact for storage yet protects the headphones
- Rose Gold version supports Qualcomm aptX codec
- Customise with shield kits with material selections and logos that can be laser-engraved or 3D printed
The V-MODA Crossfade series remain some of the most compact over-ear headphones I have come across. The construct is very dense and strong, without any plastic creaks or rattles. The earcups are slim which does not protrude out like many headphones.
Controls
The Crossfade 2 Wireless controls are all located at the right ear. There is a slide switch to turn on the headphones, slide further to activate Bluetooth pairing. Three buttons located at the tip of the earcups control volume and playback. To change tracks, double click the middle button.
Audio Quality
It is generally easy to assume that the new Crossfade 2 Wireless is better. It has to be, but interestingly, I tend to prefer the first Crossfade Wireless. Analytically-speaking, the Crossfade 2 has better instrumental separation, tighter bass, clearer highs. As a result, music sounds less in-your-face, more detailed, instruments less crowded, bass less overpowering. Vocals sound more recessed, sound staging a little more spacious.
The original Crossfade Wireless is more forward-sounding, more powerful. Sound staging is closer, vocals are clearer, bass appear louder, highs are less articulate.
I spent a fair bit of time deciding which sound I prefer. I like the improved highs of the new Crossfade 2, but I prefer the musical impact of the old Crossfade.
Verdict
There is no reason to buy the old Crossfade. The new Crossfade 2 Wireless is foldable, delivers clearer high frequencies, improved sound staging for a more analytical musical experience.
But if you own the old Crossfade, you might want to think hard whether you want to improve the highs and achieve a better-separated instrumentation at the expense of stronger vocals.
V-MODA Crossfade 2 Wireless (Rose Gold with aptX) retails for S$589, available at good audio electronic stores, at Lazada Singapore, or at the official Singapore distributor’s website, Semitse, with 1-year local warranty.




