Forza Metallo Wireless

Sources: iPhone7-plus, iPod Touch, iPad Pro Mini, Macbook 12-inch. I love technology. Hardly a year (scratch that, month) goes by without a new milestone reached or barrier breached. Well, this isn't Earth-shattering, but when I finally find an IEM (ear-canal earphone) that sounds as good as the Sennheiser IE800 I had, but costs a fraction of what it did - that's reason enough for celebration. Note that reviews of this V-MODA Forza Metallo Wireless (ForzaMW from here on) IEM will vary a lot in how the reviewers perceive them, and I already know the deal - eartips, eartips, eartips. V-MODA supplies 8 pairs, and I decided on the next-to-largest set, the orange (underneath the white exterior) set. The bass is strong and tight - not the easiest thing to find in a good headphone or earphone. While treble varies a lot among IEM users because of the vagaries of ear canals, the bass you hear should be very much the same as what I hear, if you get the proper eartip fit. Final word on the bass (read more in the music samples below): The ForzaMW bass does not seem to have the overall power of the V-MODA Wireless2 bass, at least with the eartips I selected, and while I've heard IEM's that approach that level of bass, they don't do it cleanly unless they use multiple drivers (more on that below). That said, if there are any doubts about the ForzaMW's ability to play deep bass convincingly with a clean weighty impact, have a listen to the track by Hecq that I listed below - it will dispel all doubt. Midrange: I make EQ test curves as I go when doing a review, and I didn't change anything for the ForzaMW, in other words, uncolored and crystal clear. Treble: All of the in-ears (IEM's) I've reviewed have sounded slightly bright to me, and the ForzaMW sounds like the best of those, examples being the Dita Answer/Truth, Final Audio FI-BA-SS, RHA T20i, Sennheiser IE800, and V-MODA's Forza Metallo wired edition. My best guess is that the ForzaMW will sound right to most users, with the correct treble balance, and even though this is a Bluetooth IEM, the sound quality with the Qualcomm aptX codec is as good as it gets. I don't want to get into anything controversial here, but it's worth mentioning that multi-driver IEM's generally sound different from single-driver types. The rule, based on what I hear, is the multi-driver IEM's sound "bigger", probably due to phase anomalies between the various drivers in those earphones. Single driver IEM's sound "purer", with no acoustic interference from other drivers, and even if they don't sound as "big", the soundstage is still likely to be spectacular if they're tuned correctly. This ForzaMW sounds just right. Another area of possible controversy is whether or how much a Bluetooth codec (in the ForzaMW's electronics) would reduce the resolution compared to a wired earphone such as the Forza Metallo original wired version. In my opinion this wireless version is superior because 1) The tuning is better, and correct tuning (for accurate tonality) outweighs a minor reduction in absolute resolution, and 2) The Bluetooth codec here is Qualcomm aptX - the latest and best hi-fi codec. If you listen to very well recorded and refined music in a very quiet relaxed situation, you can hear a difference between a wired connection and the aptX Bluetooth connection, if you're a critical listener, audiophile, etc. If your music isn't that level of quality, if you're listening in a non-ideal setting (noisy, not relaxed, etc.), or if you don't have experience in detecting those kinds of differences, then the point is moot. When I need critically perfect sound, I use a wired headphone, but that's only for at-home listening. Isolation with the ForzaMW is good, but not a high isolation. That is, good enough for most outdoor use, but it may or may not be enough for the bus or the tube, depending on the ear-canal seal you get. Leakage is so low that even when playing the ForzaMW in a very quiet office or library at audiophile volume levels, people sitting next to you won't hear anything, unless they press right up to your ears. The ForzaMW is extremely light - less than one ounce total, and the wires going to the earpieces are thin, but V-MODA says these are very strong and they have strain-reliefs, so not a worry thing. This is my first Bluetooth IEM, so the configuration is all new to me. Basically, the very small strip containing the electronics goes behind the neck, the thicker cables going down to the control boxes sit on the sides of the neck, and then the thinner wires go from the control boxes to the earpieces. Remember that the entire weight is less than an ounce. Standard issue with the ForzaMW are 8 sets of eartips in 4 sizes, 3 sets of in-ear stabilizers ("Sport Fins") in 3 sizes, a cloth bag, some small O-rings that work with the optional 3D-printed customization earpiece caps, and the usual literature and warranty. I've had quite a bit of experience with earphone users on audio forums who purchased cloned or fake (fugazi) earphones, and it rarely has a good outcome. Be sure to get the genuine Forza Metallo Wireless. In previous reviews I've included music examples with comments about how the headphones sound with each track. My suggestion is instead of reading each one as an absolute unto itself, you could compare my notes here to other reviews and see how the ForzaMW compares to other headphones with each track. Note that the ForzaMW was evaluated above and below without tone controls or equalization. Above & Beyond - We're All We Need (feat. Zoe Johnston): A very nice tight but impactful bass with crystal clear vocals - the ForzaMW plays this with great ambiance. Anamanaguchi - Planet: A complex mix of percussion sounds and hummed vocals. The bells and other high-frequency percussion are highly detailed, the bass line has a moderate impact, and the bass detail is surprisingly good. Armin van Buuren - J'ai Envie de Toi (Orig Mix feat Gaia): Decent bass impacts, breathy vocals, lots of fun noise - the ForzaMW makes this sound real. Avicii - Feeling Good: Classic female vocal in movie-theme style - the ForzaMW brings this to life like few other earphones I've heard. Carl Kennedy-Tommy Trash ft Rosie Henshaw - Blackwater (Original Master): Nice strong tight bass impacts, female vocal, rendered delectably by the ForzaMW. Crystal Castles - Wrath of God: Atmospheric tune with vocal sound effects and strong bass line, plus some interesting treble percussion sounds. The ForzaMW brings these unique sounds to life. Digitalism - Pogo: A driving beat with a detailed bass synth and great vocals ("There's something in the air...") - the ForzaMW makes this very enjoyable. Dino Lenny-Lino Di Meglio - We Will Make It: Atmospheric tune with mixed vocals and a good beat - the female vocal is a special treat with the ForzaMW. DJ Shadow - Building Steam With A Grain Of Salt: High-pitched tones and strong deep piano chords with a hummed female vocal - ultra-cool with the ForzaMW. Fairmont - Poble Sec: Awesome detailed bass impacts with some nifty pingy guitar/synth effects. I discovered this tune at the time I purchased my 3rd M100 - the ForzaMW renders this perfectly. Giuseppe Ottaviani - Lost for Words (On Air Mix feat Amba Shepherd): Strong bass impacts behind a female voice - a large-scale sweeping sonic image reminiscent of epic adventures in an exotic land. The ForzaMW is playing on a whole new level here. Hecq - Enceladus (With Skyence): Prodigious deep bass and clean at that. This tune's melody is more abstract than most of the others here, but the ForzaMW makes it a real adventure. Katy B - Crying For No Reason (Tom Shorterz Remix): Oh myyyyy, I love Katy B. The vocal mix here is awesome and the bass is solid. This is the ForzaMW at its best. Ladytron - Destroy Everything You Touch: I first heard this in The September Issue film and soundtrack, as the backdrop for the opening catwalk (watch Andre grinning at 1:51 - all you need to know) - the ForzaMW plays this amazing tune perfectly. Lee and Malinda - Truth Will Set You Free (V-Moda Mix): Lee Kalt is the master, this is the masterpiece. The drum (or tom-tom) hits here have a very realistic skin-tone, the female vocal is seamlessly integrated into the driving beat, and the synth effects also blend well - the ForzaMW just owns this. Markus Schulz - Mainstage: The granddaddy of bass is in this track, and the ForzaMW plays it smooth and clean.

Update: I must reduce my ratings for these headphones a few months after my initial review. They have issues where for no apparent reason, the volume will either fade to zero, or rise to max. Incredibly annoying and makes them unusable. I have seen other reviewers with the issue so clearly not an isolated case. Disappointing for less than a year of use. ------------------------------ The comfort and design of these headphones is exceptional. The earbuds and wires are incredibly small and light. When I first unboxed them I was a bit shocked at how small they were, but I can see why now. They can just sit in your ears all day with no fatigue or discomfort at all. Even the most comfortable headphones I have used before these started feeling uncomfortable after a few hours, but that is not the case with these. The wires are very long. This can be a little annoying and get in the way sometimes, and I imagine they would be inconvenient for using in the gym (not something I have ever used them for). But the long wires do serve a purpose. You can move and turn your head and never feel a single tug from the wires. The design is sleek, and I feel like I can wear them anywhere without them feeling out of place or over the top. The neckband fits perfectly under a shirt collar, so they are fairly subtle for all day wear at work. Battery life is good. I have seen some criticism of the battery life, but for a low profile neckband pair of earbuds like this, 10 hours is really good. Bluetooth connectivity is fairly good. Not quite as much range as others (especially over ear headphones) but still able to wear them around most of the house while keeping good signal. Pretty much no interruption when I have my phone in my pocket. Sound- I am not an audiophile by any means so not really going to dwell on sound. There is a bit of bass but not overkill like some others. They sound really good to me. Overall these are just really comfortable, sleek headphones. The V Moda marketing suggests they designed these headphones for all day wear and use, and they have certainly achieved that. I would probably look for other options if you want a pair of headphones for the gym / running, due to the long wires. But for everything else (listening at work / around the hours / when walking) these are superb.

I have owned 3 pairs of these and none have lasted longer than a year. These cost nearly £200. The sound quality is excellent, they're very comfortable and they last a long time. However, after only a very short period (in one case as short as 3 months), they break. I therefore cannot recommend them. Much too unreliable which is not what I would expect from V Moda. I've owned their M100 over-ear headphones which have lasted me 8 years. Build quality badly needs to be improved, otherwise these are a waste.

Hi Folks- I don’t care what anyone says, $200 is a lot to spend for a wireless headset, so I was determined to get everything I wanted out of my purchase. I spent time looking at reviews and videos, and narrowed my search to 3 finalists. My priorities in this selection are 1. Sound Quality. 2. Connectivity. 3. Wearability. 4. Build Quality. 5. Battery Life. My finalists were: Sony WF1000X/BM1, RHA MA650, and the V-ModaForza Metallo. I have previous experience with V-Moda since I currently use a pair of their M-100 head phones and really like the sound profile and build quality of these. In fact, they are IMHO the best bang for the buck in headphones that I’ve heard, and the closed back design and Abrams Tank build quality make them perfect for road warriors. And for those who don’t already know. The ‘V’ in V-Moda is the shape of the sound profile where low and high frequencies are accentuated above the mids making a ‘V’... but I digress- Sonys: Cool idea, but not quite ready for prime time. I enjoyed the sound quality (especially the bass boost option on the Sony app), but volume was seriously lacking and the right ear piece cut out repeatedly during music listening. If your priority is taking calls, and music is something you listen to while stationary with your source taped to your forehead, maybe these will do. I like the compact design, the lack of a cord around my neck and the slick aluminum charging case, but these are not for music listeners or high activity. I think battery technology is the limiting factor here, and they just don’t have the power for reception or volume. RMA: Cool design, great build quality complete with military grade cord, stainless steel ear pieces and lovely British packaging. They remind me of that classic Rolls Royce, replete with Corinthian leather, sterling silver switchery, and maple wood trimming that has been finely buffed with fore$kin of llama, and sits in your driveway at the Hamptons because it won’t start (which is why, btw, Rolls now uses BMW engines). But back to the RMAs- classically British, and fundamentally dysfunctional. If you are going to design an activity device and claim it is for working out, don’t force me to loop the cord around my ear because the earpieces are too heavy. Furthermore, the batteries in the ends of the wire base beat a tempo against your collarbone while running... never mind the black eyes you get while jumping hurdles, if you’re into that. The sound is not to my liking either, but that’s subjective. I’m an incurable bass head, and I’m a sucker for that V profile we discussed earlier, especially when engaged in the type of activities typically done with this type of listening device. The RMAs are mid range and treble focused, and bass is repressed. Maybe it’s the stainless steel housing... V-Moda. High-speed, low drag. They are unimpressive to look at. The ear pieces are tiny. There are no emblazoned logos, fancy cables, or shiny bits. And the packaging is just plain silly. But THEY WORK. And the bass is awesome. Structurally, they disappear during use. By that I mean, the battery module is at the back, encased in plastic, and tucks into your collar if you happen to be jumping hurdles in an oxford. The earpieces fit into your ear, not on, above or around them. They are easily put in and taken out of your ears (ie pop out the right one while taking a call and then return it to continue on with the music listening experience). No Looping! Volume is not mind blowing on these either, but the sound isolation from the ear piece fit makes them much better than the other two sets. Battery life is 10 hours vs 12 for the RMAs and 2 for the Sonys (per charge). The V-Moda connects effortlessly to your device (I use an iPhone and a Sony WM), and phone calls are clear and uninterrupted. In fact, you get a nice massage from the vibrating battery module on the back of your neck when a call comes in. It’s ok if you call yourself, nobody will know... In summary, the clear pick for me is the V-Moda Forza Metallo. This is a good example (with the exception of the packaging) of function over form, and a listening experience that I can live with day to day while commuting, exercising, and writing reviews. Cheers, eh!

Je les adore. Confort, qualité de son, design et facilité d'utilisation et de prise en main. Qualité des appels et conversation. Seul petit bémol, c'est qu'ils ne s'aimante pas. Du coup, je les ai perdus 2 fois, sans doute en enlevant mon écharpe.

Cercavo delle cuffie bluetooth all'altezza delle OneMore e Shure con cavo che già avevo. Il prezzo è in linea con la qualità, davvero alta: suono nitido, perfettamente bilanciato con bassi non prevalenti e focus su medi e alti. Chiarimento: i bassi ci sono e si sentono, semplicemente non sono la parte prevalente delle canzoni ed è un bene visto il profilo spostato sui bassi di quasi tutte le cuffie bluetooth. Qualità costruttiva altrettanto buona, unica pecca i comandi che non sono particolarmente comodi in inverno quando si indossano Giacchetti e/o sciarpe. In sintesi, un ottimo sostituto delle Shure via cavo, con la comodità del bluetooth.

Pretty good product, with great sound quality. Very clear and distinct sound and even in high volume does not change or distorts. Although its supposed to be biased towards bass I still find it balanced. Supports Apt-x codec and works best with Android phones. But unfortunately does not support AAC so with iOS sound quality will not be as good as Android.

After months of online research to find the best pairing of a wireless headphone set for my new Pixel xl2, I finally decided on this, the V-Moda Forza Metallo Wireless. I am glad that I did. The set itself is well packaged, easy to set up and easier to install on my phone. It is fast to charge, so comfortable to wear, simple to operate, holds a charge like no other and the sound is second to none! I was expecting nothing less from V-Moda and I am not disappointed. The price point from Amazon.ca was crazy... less in Canadian dollars than the USD price direct from V-Moda.... and free shipping too. It was out of stock when I ordered it so had to wait a few weeks but the wait was well worth it. Get it while you can. I have tried others but based on comfort, sound and technical specs, the V-Moda Forza Metallo Wireless cannot be beat.