Every audiophile has an ultimate goal: headphones. A pair that they aim for and absolutely need. Getting that pair of headphones will finally put an end to their quest. Some people get such headphones, while others look enviously at the price tags that only the very rich can afford.

My ultimate goal for headphones has just shifted: the D8000 DC and DC Pro are both really attractive. And thanks to the audio wizards in Final's native Japan, they sound great.

But I wish it were so.

There are two models of headphones available from Final, each in a different price range. Both are expensive, the D8000 DC at $4,299/€4,299/£3,999 and the C8000 DC Pro at $4,799/€4,799/£4,499.

That's a lot of money by any measure, but there is a good reason for these high prices. Both headphones use Planar Magnetic driver technology. This technology is currently all the rage in audiophile circles, thanks to its ability to produce (in part) much better bass, wider mids, and crisper highs.

However, Final has added something new. It is called AFDS (Air Film Damping System), which “uses the natural properties of air to adjust the movement of the diaphragm for richer, distortion-free bass reproduction.”

By overcoming the limitations of typical planar magnetism, AFDS enables a deep, balanced soundstage and captures audio with amazing accuracy across the entire spectrum”

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The difference between the two headphones is, for the most part, tuning: the D8000 DC is tuned for consumers, whereas the DC Pro is tuned for mixers, producers, and other music professionals.

Of course, these are not headphones to be bussed around in. They are designed to be used in a dedicated listening room, connected to a great headphone amplifier. It is an intentional listening choice, and I am excited to make it.

DC stands for “Da Capo,” or “The Beginning,” which means that Final is going back to its roots to create spectacular headphones and audio equipment. They are made at Final's home in Kawasaki, Japan, using premium materials. Please also join my go fund me “Tammy wants to buy a pair of her end game headphones.”

The D8000 DC and DC Pro are currently available for pre-order in the US and will ship at the end of the year.