V-Moda Crossfade LP headphones (Gunmetal Black)

Editors' note: This review has been updated to reflect improved performance results after extended testing of the headphones.

V-Moda has gained quite a reputation for its stylish, low-profile earbuds, so it's not terribly surprising that the company has decided to dip its toes into the full-size headphone waters. As would be expected, V-Moda's entry into the space is every bit as stylish as its ultraportable siblings. The Crossfade LP headphones run about $250 and feature top-notch construction, plenty of features, and a comfy fit. Unfortunately, sound quality is not consistent across all genres of music, so if you have eclectic taste, these aren't the best option. However, this set does offer great, encompassing audio for club and dance tracks, as well as provide decent response for some midtempo electronica and big pop, which makes them a suitable option for some.

To say that the Crossfade LP headphones are different than the rest of V-Moda's earphones is a bit of an understatement. The Remix line includes only supertiny in-ear models, whereas the Crossfades are monsters by comparison. These are true full-size cans with large, ultracushy padded earcups and a nice, thick padded headband. The result is a comfy fit for nearly every head size and shape, though the 'phones did tend to make our ears slightly sweaty and itchy after extended wear; it wasn't excessive, though.

The style of the Crossfade LP is definitely eye-catching, to the point where one tester didn't feel "hard core" enough to pull them off, where as another was smitten with the urban-industrial design. The headphones come in a choice of three colors--gunmetal black, phantom chrome, or white pearl--and each version features shiny metallic plates fastened on the earcups and headband with mini bolts. The cups are in turn attached to the headband via skeletal metal arms that click satisfyingly when you're adjusting the size of the headphones.