Headphones — T+A T+A Solitaire P-SE

The Solitaire P-SE is a planar magnetic open-backed headphone from T+A, built with an unusually high maximum sound pressure level rating for the format. T+A applies the same thorough, engineering-led approach it brings to loudspeakers and electronics into this headphone, offering a serious alternative to the more established planar magnetic specialists.

Position in line

It shares its acoustic platform with the Solitaire T in T+A's headphone range, positioned alongside the Solitaire P as a related variant. This close relationship to the Solitaire T suggests T+A has built a small family of headphones around a shared core driver platform, differentiated by specific tuning or connector configuration between variants.

Key specs that matter

Rated response is 8 Hz to 45 kHz, an exceptionally wide window typical of planar magnetic drivers. Maximum sound pressure level is specified at 130 dB at 5% THD, a high figure for a planar design, suggesting genuine headroom before audible strain. Impedance is 45 ohms. Both unbalanced 6.35mm and balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn or XLR-4-pin connections are supported, an unusually comprehensive cabling arrangement. Weight is 440 g.

Sound and use context

Expect the fast, detailed character associated with planar magnetic drivers, with the open-backed design favouring soundstage width over isolation - T+A's engineering reputation suggests this headphone should deliver competitive performance against more established planar magnetic rivals.

Pairing

The 45 ohm impedance works from a capable headphone amplifier; both balanced and unbalanced cable options are supported directly, giving flexibility regardless of what amplifier or source is already owned.

Alternatives

The Solitaire T and Solitaire P sit alongside this model in T+A's headphone range as closely related variants, worth clarifying the specific differences with a dealer before choosing between these closely named options. A dedicated headphone amplifier capable of driving planar magnetic loads properly is essential to unlock this model full dynamic potential. Overall this remains a serious alternative for a listener specifically open to lesser-known planar magnetic brands.