Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.
What reviewers think
Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.
Product Strengths
- Amazing sound quality, delivering each layer of sound with complete clarity.
- Good quality and fully customizable noise cancellation.
- Comfortable for long periods of wear.
- Include a Wi-Fi dongle for Hi-Res streaming, transmitting higher quality tracks at a lower latency.
- Long battery life, up to 100 hours of playtime with ANC switched off.
Product Considerations
- Some users might want a little more robustness and density from the headband.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sony WH-1000XM5: AKG N9 Hybrid performs exceptionally in noise cancelation, long battery life, and sound.
Takeaway: The AKG N9 Hybrid are great headphones for detailed listening, with excellent noise cancellation and a comfortable design. They are a good option if you want high-quality wireless listening.
What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.
All
N9 Hybrid
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
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Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Driver Size: 40 mm Dynamic Driver
- Frequency Response (Passive): 10 Hz – 40 kHz
- Frequency Response (Active): 10 Hz – 40 kHz
- Microphone Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 16 kHz
- Impedance: 32 Ω
- Sensitivity: 98 dB SPL @ 1 kHz
- Maximum SPL: 95 dB
- Microphone Sensitivity: –38 dBV/Pa @ 1 kHz
- Maximum Input Power: 30 mW
- Power Supply: 5 V / 1 A
- Bluetooth Version: 5.3
- Bluetooth Profiles: A2DP V1.4, AVRCP V1.6.2, HFP V1.8
- Bluetooth Transmitter Power: < 11 dBm
- Bluetooth Transmitter Frequency Range: 2.4 – 2.4835 GHz
- Bluetooth Modulation: GFSK, π/4-DQPSK, 8DPSK
- 2.4 GHz Transmitter Power (EIRP): < 9 dBm
- 2.4 GHz Modulation: GFSK
- Weight: 281 g (0.62 lbs)
- Battery Type: Lithium-Ion, 1050 mAh / 3.8 V
- Charging Time: ~3 h (from empty)
Description
The AKG N9 Hybrid are wireless over-ear headphones delivering high-resolution AKG sound, immersive spatial audio and adaptive noise cancelling. They support seamless multi-mode connectivity (Bluetooth 5.3, 2.4 GHz dongle, AUX), customizable call settings via the AKG app, Smart Talk auto pause feature, ultra-lightweight comfort, and extremely long battery life—up to 100 h in Bluetooth mode with ANC off.
Release Timeline
Manufacturer Site
Brand highlights
Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:
- AKG studio headphones are frequently recognized for their wide and immersive soundstage, creating a great sense of depth and accurate placement .
- The brand delivers a near-neutral sound profiles in its headphones, catering to the needs of audio professionals and critical listeners.
- They often utilize a distinctive "hammock-style" self-adjusting headband that equally distributes weight, enhancing comfort for extended listening sessions.
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AKG N5 HYBRID
- Positioning: The entry-level true wireless earbuds designed for everyday portability and effective noise cancellation.
- Description: Features 10mm dynamic drivers with DLC-coated diaphragms, True Adaptive Noise Cancelling controlled by the AKG Headphones app, and immersive spatial audio that delivers clear call quality. Compared to higher-end models like the N9 Hybrid, these earbuds focus on affordability and ease of use while still offering Hi-Res sound for casual listening and light communication.
AKG K371-BT
- Positioning: The mid-range wireless headphone that combines Bluetooth and wired connectivity for studio-style performance on the go.
- Description: Offers a closed-back, foldable design with a built-in microphone and dual connectivity options that cater to both mobile and desktop use. Compared to the N5 Hybrid earbuds, they provide a traditional headphone form factor with enhanced durability and sound isolation, though they deliver fewer advanced audio features than the immersive N9 Hybrid.
AKG N9 HYBRID
- Positioning: The mid-tier over-ear headphone that integrates advanced noise cancelling and Hi-Res audio for extended listening.
- Description: With 40mm dynamic drivers using Liquid Crystal Polymer diaphragms and customizable True Adaptive Noise Cancelling, these headphones offer detailed spatial audio and superior call quality. In contrast to the more compact N5 Hybrid earbuds, the N9 Hybrid is suited for longer sessions in noisy environments while still being more portable than the high-end reference models.
AKG K872
- Positioning: The high-end reference closed-back headphone engineered for critical studio monitoring and mastering.
- Description: Uses 53mm transducers with a 1.5 Tesla magnet system and a two-layer voice coil within an optimized closed-back design to deliver authoritative low frequencies and accurate imaging. Compared to the N9 Hybrid, the K872 prioritizes maximum isolation and reference-grade fidelity for professional monitoring, while offering a robust, durable build for prolonged studio use.
AKG K812
- Positioning: The flagship open-back reference headphone crafted for detailed mixing and high-end audio production.
- Description: Features the largest 53mm transducer ever built by AKG, a powerful 1.5 Tesla magnet system, and an ultra-lightweight two-layer voice coil, delivering pure, natural sound with exceptional spatial imaging. In contrast to the closed-back K872, the K812's open design provides an expansive soundstage and enhanced comfort.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
809
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
23
Founding Year
1947
Our take on the brand
AKG pioneered several groundbreaking headphone technologies, including flat-wire voice coils and the Varimotion two-layer diaphragm. The brand also created the legendary C12 tube condenser microphone with its distinctive CK12 capsule and launched the first dynamic cardioid microphone in 1953, earning a Technical GRAMMY Award in 2010 for contributions to recording technology.
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What if you spend more?
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Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay HX
749
749
/
10
Reviews
Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
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Product Strengths
- Exquisite build quality with premium materials, like anodized aluminum, memory foam, lambskin leather, and high-quality polymer
- Very comfortable, generously padded with memory foam wrapped in lambskin, and the headband distributes pressure evenly
- Long battery life, up to 35 hours with ANC on and 40 hours with ANC off
- Sound quality is rich, refined, spacious, balanced, and impressively detailed
- Good voice pickup and decent noise suppression in moderately noisy environments
- Connectivity options are available
Product Considerations
- Round ear pads may pull down on ear cartilage and rest on ear lobes
- The HX can only be laid down flat, they are not fully collapsible
- ANC is good, but not quite at the level of industry leaders
- Touch panel is awkward to use, and touches are often not registered properly
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sony 1000XM4/XM5 and Bose 700, ANC on the HX is not quite at the level of these industry leaders
- Vs the H95, the HX are more sensible, and noticeably cheaper
- Vs the Sony XM3, the HX looks far more refined
- Vs the Apple AirPods Max, the HX has up to 15 hours of additional battery life, and are also 100g lighter
- Vs the Bowers & Wilkins PX7, the HX brings a slightly higher level of refinement, showcasing detail and nuances that are missed
Takeaway: The Beoplay HX are beautifully made headphones that deliver excellent sound quality and are highly comfortable. If the user values aesthetics as much as audio and is willing to pay a premium for quality, then the HX is worth consideration.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
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Master & Dynamic
MW75
599
599
/
7
Reviews
Master & Dynamic is a hifi audio brand that uses unconventional materials, including beryllium drivers across their entire lineup, tempered glass ear cups on headphones, and sapphire glass on earbuds, with handcrafted acetate shells reminiscent of luxury eyewear. They've also created unique products, such as a 35-pound wireless speaker with a concrete composite enclosure, and integrated EEG sensors into headphones to track focus and trigger brain-break prompts.
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Product Strengths
- Premium build quality with materials like lambskin leather, aluminum, and tempered glass, gives it a solid and luxurious feel
- Comfortable for extended wear, due to soft memory foam padding on earcups and headband, and a balanced headband
- Balanced sound signature with warm bass, clean mids, and well-defined treble, making it suitable for various music genres
- Effective active noise cancellation (ANC) significantly reduces low-frequency sounds
- Comprehensive package includes various adapters for different connections, and a hard-shell carrying case for protection
Product Considerations
- The earcup size might be too small for some users, potentially affecting comfort and seal
- Some reviewers found the clamping force to be loose, which could be an issue for active use
- Audible hiss can be noticeable when ANC is activated
- The app lacks a customizable graphic EQ
- Ambient mode is subtle and might not let in as much surrounding sound as competing models
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Sony WH-1000XM5, the Master & Dynamic MW75 delivers above-average ANC performance, but it is not class-leading
- Compared to the Bose QuietComfort 45, the Master & Dynamic MW75 has an audible ANC hiss
Takeaway: The Master & Dynamic MW75 are stylish and comfortable headphones that deliver excellent audio quality and decent noise cancellation. They are a great choice for those looking for a premium listening experience and appreciate high-quality materials.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Master & Dynamic is a hifi audio brand that uses unconventional materials, including beryllium drivers across their entire lineup, tempered glass ear cups on headphones, and sapphire glass on earbuds, with handcrafted acetate shells reminiscent of luxury eyewear. They've also created unique products, such as a 35-pound wireless speaker with a concrete composite enclosure, and integrated EEG sensors into headphones to track focus and trigger brain-break prompts.
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What competes at this price?
Edifier
WH950NB
179
/
Released
2023
The WH950NB headphones are equipped with intelligent, active noise cancellation algorithms that remove surrounding noise. There are two active noise cancellation mode selections that meet everyone's needs. Furthermore, users can choose between ambient sound or wind reduction in different scenarios to create their ideal environment.
Edifier, a hifi audio brand, horn-loaded ribbon tweeters to affordable active monitors through their Airpulse series. The brand achieved the first Hi-Res Audio certified true wireless earbuds with their NeoBuds Pro and in 2010 became China's first publicly listed audio speaker company.
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Our Summary
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- ANC does not compete with Sony or Bose, even in the same price category, let alone their higher-end stuff.
- The Sennheiser HD 450BT and the Urbanista Los Angeles offer better ANC or a unique solar charging design, respectively, for a small price increase.
- More comfortable than the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 and Apple AirPods Max thanks to plush padding.
- The Edifier WH950NB hybrid ANC is well implemented, making it a legitimate reason to consider, even outside of the big price savings, as the Stax SPIRIT S3 does not feature any noise cancellation.
Takeaway: The Edifier WH950NB is a comfortable and feature-rich headphone that offers good noise cancellation and balanced sound, making it a solid choice for commuters or anyone seeking an immersive listening experience. With its long battery life and customizable app, these headphones are a great value for the price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Edifier, a hifi audio brand, horn-loaded ribbon tweeters to affordable active monitors through their Airpulse series. The brand achieved the first Hi-Res Audio certified true wireless earbuds with their NeoBuds Pro and in 2010 became China's first publicly listed audio speaker company.
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Sennheiser
Momentum 4 Wireless
449
/
Released
2022
The MOMENTUM 4 Wireless combines audiophile-inspired sound, Adaptive Noise Cancellation, 60-hour battery life, and supreme comfort in a fold-flat wireless headphone.
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Sound quality is excellent; multiple reviewers describe sound quality as impressive right out of the box (no EQ)
- Good battery life, lasting over 55 hours with ANC on
- Connectivity options include wired listening over USB-C and the standard TRS jack
Product Considerations
- ANC performance is not as strong as competitors, reducing outside noise and loudness by about 76% across all the samples that were taken, while the Apple AirPods Max can achieve something like 88%
- Touch controls can be too sensitive and can be triggered by mistake
- There are some unexpected rough edges; sometimes the touch controls just do not work when first starting the headphones
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sony XM5: The Sennheiser Momentum 4 outperforms the Sony WH-1000XM5 in terms of sound quality
- Vs Apple AirPods Max: Transparency mode is not as good
- Vs Sennheiser Momentum 3: The Momentum 4 provides improvements in vocal clarity compared to the Momentum 3
- Vs Bose QC45: The Bose QuietComfort 45 have better ANC
Takeaway: The Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless headphones offer flagship sound, comfort, and long battery life. They could be a good choice for anyone who values sound quality and extended battery life.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
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Sony
INZONE H9
349
/
Released
2022
A lightweight (~260 g) premium wireless gaming headset with active noise cancelling, detachable boom mic, dual wireless connectivity (2.4 GHz and Bluetooth), 3.5 mm input, designed for long gaming sessions with comfort and clear audio.
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Very comfortable to wear for long gaming sessions due to good padding and flexibility
- Simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity
- Active Noise Cancellation is effective
Product Considerations
- Microphone quality is disappointing for the price, and can sound muffled
- The H9 can accumulate heat on the surface of the ear cups
- Battery life indication is lacking
- Sound quality depends on the device being used
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Corsair HS80 has better microphone quality
- SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless are better built
- The H9 has leatherette padding instead of cloth like the H7, and an ANC system
Takeaway: The INZONE H9 is a comfy headset with useful features like active noise cancelling and simultaneous device connectivity, making it enjoyable for both gaming and everyday use. It could be a good match if you want it to match your PlayStation 5.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sony developed the LDAC Bluetooth codec enabling wireless streaming at up to 990 kbps and 360 Reality Audio that personalizes playback by analyzing photos of your ears to tailor spatial imaging. They've given a lot to the hifi audio industry, and manufacture some of the most popular wireless headphone models available today.
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1 More
SonoFlow SE
49
/
Released
2023
Embrace remarkable sound clarity and enhanced bass with the 1MORE cutting-edge 40mm diamond-like-carbon DLC dynamic driver, delivering immersive audio that sets new standards for premium sound quality.
1MORE is a hifi audio brand known for headphones that achieved multiple industry firsts, including the first THX-certified headphones and true wireless earbuds. The brand offers distinctive features like QuietMax ANC technology, affordable head-tracked spatial audio, and multi-driver configurations, such as their five-driver hybrid with four planar drivers.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Active noise cancelling (ANC) performs as well as other sub-$100 headphones and better than most in its price range
- Outstanding battery life, providing up to 60 hours of playback with ANC on and up to 90 hours with ANC off
- Considered good value for money because of its features and audio quality at its price point
- Warm sound signature with a lifted upper midrange that pushes vocals forward
- The 1MORE Music app allows switching ANC modes, toggling spatial audio and gaming modes, updating firmware, accessing EQ settings, as well as enabling LDAC, for higher-resolution audio
Product Considerations
- Lacks an aux connection or 3.5 audio cable connection
- Made entirely of plastic, and the build quality may not be the strongest
- No continuous power light and no visual indication of device connection
- Not IP rated and not sweat resistant
- The upper midrange can be a little shouty on some EQ presets
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Soundcore Q20i has more presets, is thicker making it more durable, and has a 3.5 audio jack
Takeaway: The 1More Sonoflow SE is a solid choice for those wanting good sound, noise canceling, and great battery life without spending too much. This product provides good features at an affordable price.
Video review
Our take on the brand
1MORE is a hifi audio brand known for headphones that achieved multiple industry firsts, including the first THX-certified headphones and true wireless earbuds. The brand offers distinctive features like QuietMax ANC technology, affordable head-tracked spatial audio, and multi-driver configurations, such as their five-driver hybrid with four planar drivers.
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Audio-Technica
ATH-S300BT
149
/
Released
2024
Wireless audio innovation is here with the ATH-S300BT, where wireless technology meets comfort, style, and convenience. These wireless headphones deliver an unparalleled audio experience with the freedom of Bluetooth® connectivity. The ATH-S300BT offers advanced features, like digital hybrid noise-cancelling technology, to customize your sound space no matter where you are.
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Exceptional battery life, advertised at 90 hours without noise-canceling and 60 hours with ANC.
- Very comfortable for extended use, with soft pleather ear cushions and a well-padded headband that distributes weight evenly.
- Good audio fidelity for the price range, with a warm sound signature and clear mids suitable for various music genres.
- Multipoint pairing allows connection with two devices simultaneously.
- Call quality is good, voice transmission sounds clear and natural, and the microphone cancels wind noise.
Product Considerations
- The design is described as minimalist and generic, lacking the distinctive Audio-Technica branding, with plastic construction.
- Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) is average, not on par with industry leaders like Sony or Bose, and a background noise was noted in ANC and ambient mode.
- There is no smartphone app support, so there is no EQ, button remapping, noise cancellation adjustments, or firmware updates.
- The headphones cannot be folded for easier travel.
- The transparency mode can sound unnatural, with some digital distortion and excessive amplification.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Sony WH-1000XM5, the ATH-S300BT is a more affordable alternative.
Takeaway:
The ATH-S300BT headphones offer a great combination of long battery life, comfort, and decent sound quality at an attractive price, and it is useful for work, music listening, and making calls. It is a good pick for people who want wireless headphones without spending too much.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Audio-Technica is a Japanese hifi brand that stands out with their Direct Power System phono cartridges, which place coils directly above the stylus tip for faster transients; their Pure Digital Drive wireless headphones that bypass internal DACs; and their proprietary A2DC connector system for more secure connections. The brand maintains exceptional in-house manufacturing depth, with hand-assembled wooden headphones crafted from Japanese woods in Tokyo and phono cartridge production at their Fukui plant.
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