Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

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

  • Effective noise reduction for its price range, suitable for office or travel use.
  • The design looks more expensive than its actual price.
  • Operation is simple, using buttons instead of touch controls for accurate and safe operation.
  • Comes with a hard transport case, AUX cable, and USB Type-C cable

Product Considerations

  • With ANC switched on, the sound is heavy and dark with exaggerated bass.
  • Without ANC, the sound is thin.
  • There is no control app for adjusting the tonal balance.
  • Only supports AAC.

Takeaway: The Argon Audio Quiet Storm offers effective noise cancellation and a stylish design at an accessible price, making it a decent option if simplicity and noise reduction on a budget are a priority. It is easy to use and comes with helpful accessories.

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

Quiet Storm

reviews

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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Wireless connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Bluetooth version: Bluetooth 5.0
  • Audio formats: AAC
  • Headphone type: Over-Ear
  • Headphone connection: Wireless
  • Driver: 40 mm
  • Battery life (h): 30
  • Active noise cancelling: ANC type Hybrid
  • Charge time (h): 2
  • Quick charge: 5 min quick charges gives 2 hours
  • Acoustic construction: Closed
  • Standby-Time: up to 300 hours
  • Dimensions (H x W x L): 19.5 x 18 x 4.6 cm
  • Dimensions incl. packaging (H x W x L): 23 x 18 x 10 cm
  • Net weight: 0.29 kg
  • Gross weight: 0.76 kg
Enjoy the quiet in the middle of the storm with these active noise-canceling wireless headphones. Sporting high-quality 40 mm dynamic drivers and a rock-solid Bluetooth 5.0 connection, Quiet Storm is sure to bring you hours and hours of great listening experiences – all while providing best-in-class comfort and battery capacity.
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:

  • Argon Audio delivers a wide array of connectivity options, including turntable inputs, HDMI ARC, and both digital and analog inputs.
  • They implement true active speaker designs with dedicated amplifiers for each driver (bi-amplification), along with DSP correction, to deliver a balanced sound signature.
  • Argon Audio delivers sound quality that belies their price point, often being compared favorably to more expensive competitors and exceeding expectations for the budget category.

Fenris A4  

  • Positioning: Entry-level active speaker designed for approachable quality and simplicity.  
  • Description: Offers solid digital amplification with driver tuning aimed at clear sound in smaller rooms. Compared to other models in the lineup, it lacks some advanced connectivity and premium driver enhancements, making it ideal for buyers with basic functionality needs and a tighter budget.

Forte A55 WiFi  

  • Positioning: Mid-range active speaker with built-in WiFi streaming for modern connectivity.  
  • Description: Integrates wireless connectivity with reliable digital amplification to deliver clear audio while enabling smart-device streaming. When compared to the standard Forte and Fenris models, its added WiFi feature sets it apart, though it offers fewer high-end driver refinements than the flagship option.

Forte A55 MK2  

  • Positioning: Mid-tier active speaker blending robust performance with multiple connectivity options.  
  • Description: Features fully digital amplification with separate channels for tweeters and woofers to provide crisp, detailed sound. Relative to the Fenris series and the WiFi variant, it offers greater wired connectivity and refined driver technology, while still positioning below the flagship in overall technical sophistication.

Fenris A55  

  • Positioning: Upper mid-range active speaker focused on acoustic clarity and refined sound performance.  
  • Description: Delivers enhanced digital amplification with carefully tuned drivers to create a richer sound stage. In contrast to the Forte series, it emphasizes pure sound quality over extensive connectivity options.

Forte A5 MK2  

  • Positioning: Flagship bookshelf active speaker offering premium technology and high-end audio performance.  
  • Description: Provides exceptional digital amplification paired with advanced custom drivers for a superior dynamic range and sound fidelity. Compared to the lower-tier models, it delivers the most refined acoustic performance and connectivity features.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
24
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
172
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
29
Founding Year
2003

Our take on the brand

Argon Audio is a Scandinavian hifi brand that combines elegant aesthetics with advanced acoustic technologies, including their unique Anisotropic Torsion Stabiliser system for turntables and powerful compact speakers that deliver deep bass. Their products, from the versatile TT-4 turntable to the SOLO streaming box, stand out for delivering performance that exceeds expectations at their price points, particularly in terms of precision and dynamic range.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

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From our interview with
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What if you spend more?

Product image
Dali
Dali IO-8
900
900
/
13
Reviews

Premium DALI IO-8 wireless Hi-Fi headphones with custom DALI driver technology bring you genuine Hi-Fi performance, while advanced audiophile active noise cancellation technology lets you enjoy the same genuine sound, wherever your are.True Hi-Fi PerformanceDALI IO-8 headphones are designed and engineered using the same sound principles as our full-size loudspeakers – they're true Hi-Fi speakers for your head.Audiophile Active Noise CancellationSilence the outside world with unique active noise cancellation technology tuned carefully by DALI to strip away the distractions without impairing the sound.35-Hour Battery LifeEnjoy up to 35 hours of peerless noise-cancelling playback.Dual Sound ModesTailor the performance to your own style with 'Hi-Fi' and 'Bass' sound modes.

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Positive, detailed, and convincing sound makes music enjoyable, rather than academic
  • Exceptional build quality with premium materials, including brushed metal and tactile fabric, gives them an understatedly good look and feel
  • Can function as hard-wired passive headphones without battery power, offering flexibility and continuous use
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC) effectively reduces external noise without significantly impacting the sonic characteristics of the headphones
  • Balanced frequency response with smooth transitions and ample detail throughout the range

Product Considerations

  • The lack of a control app limits user customization options
  • The use of real leather in the earpads may not appeal to vegan customers
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC) is decent, but not class-leading compared to brands like Bose
  • The midrange can be a bit too relaxed for some users

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Bowers & Wilkins PX8, the Dali IO-8 offers distinct sound
  • Compared to Sennheiser Momentum 4, the Dali IO-8 is heavier
  • Compared to Focal Bathys, the Dali IO-8 is lighter

Takeaway: The Dali IO-8 is a premium headphone that delivers high-quality sound with a focus on musicality and build quality. It's a great choice for listeners who value a balanced sound signature, comfortable design, and the flexibility of wired and wireless use.

Video review

Our take on the brand

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Focal
Bathys
699
699
/
13
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality delivers a rich, full, detailed, and clear experience, rivaling higher-end wired headphones
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions due to soft earpads and good weight distribution
  • High-quality build with premium materials like magnesium yokes, aluminum band, and leather padding
  • Effective noise canceling is comparable to leading brands like Bose and Sony, and offers a transparency mode
  • Versatile connectivity with Bluetooth (aptX Adaptive), USB-DAC mode (up to 24/192), and analog 3.5mm

Product Considerations

  • Active noise canceling (ANC) isn't the absolute best on the market
  • Stock cables are considered basic and somewhat short
  • The app, while offering EQ and other adjustments, can be clunky and difficult to connect initially, and some users have reported firmware update issues
  • The headphones always need battery power to function, even when using a wired connection
  • Some reviewers found the bass a little too elevated in the lower mids

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Bathys has a more natural fit, a better mic, more connectivity options, and a companion app that allows for better sound adjustments, while the AirPods Max excels in noise canceling
  • The Bathys has more consistent audio delivery, a more robust EQ, and better overall noise isolation, while the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 is more comfortable and better built
  • The Bathys has similar noise isolation performance and similar USB-C and analog capabilities, but the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless has a more accurate treble response and better battery life
  • The Bathys has better sound, is more comfortable, and is better built than the Sony WH-1000XM5, while the XM5 has better battery and better noise isolation
  • The Focal Celestee is better built, more comfortable, and wired, while the Bathys has a USB-DAC mode for higher-quality audio and a companion app to adjust it

Takeaway: The Focal Bathys are a solid pick for wireless headphones that sound great and feel luxurious. Excellent sound quality with convenient features like active noise canceling make them perfect for enjoying music on the go.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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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Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

beyerdynamic
Aventho 300
399
/
Released
2024
Did you ever want to hear what your favourite artists heard while producing their music – no matter where you are? With the AVENTHO 300 headphones, you can. These wireless over-ear headphones use the same German-made drivers that provide the excellent sound quality found in our studio headphones. Thanks to Dolby Atmos with Dolby Head Tracking™ technology and the latest codecs, you can experience unparalleled 3D sound. Powerful ANC eliminates distracting background noise, while high-quality materials and superb comfort round out these top-tier headphones.
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Beyerdynamic is known for their Tesla driver technology, producing designs which are easy to drive with various sources and are commonplace in professional environments. The brand caters to both professional users and home listeners, with products ranging from analytical studio headphones to gaming headsets designed for precise sound localization.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Polished, almost studio-like audio quality with big bass
  • Has multipoint connectivity and lossless codecs
  • Very long battery life, up to 50 hours with ANC on
  • Exciting listen along with on-the-go features

Product Considerations

  • Ear pads are hard to remove
  • Touchpad for controls is a bit finicky and has inconsistent sensitivity
  • Clamping force is a bit strong, so stretching may be needed
  • The high end is also a little hyped, adding to the clarity
  • Although the bass bloats into the lower-mids, the rest of the midrange is nicely tuned

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e: The Aventho 300 brings studio sensibilities to its soundstage, while the Px7 aims for accurate linearity
  • Vs Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X headphones: Using the same drivers as the company's studio-oriented DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X, the sound quality will make one feel like they have taken a blanket off their music, especially when upgrading from a cheaper model
  • Vs Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: They are only beaten by the Sennheiser Momentum 4 and the Marshall Monitor III

Takeaway: The Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 sound polished and are meant for the studio, but they still have a large bass response. For those seeking something different without sacrificing quality, these headphones offer a compelling combination of sound quality and features.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Beyerdynamic is known for their Tesla driver technology, producing designs which are easy to drive with various sources and are commonplace in professional environments. The brand caters to both professional users and home listeners, with products ranging from analytical studio headphones to gaming headsets designed for precise sound localization.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay EX
399
/
Released
2022
As versatile as they are beautiful, these wireless earbuds with active noise cancellation bring deep sound and snug comfort in one sleek package.
Check Amazon
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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Premium design and build quality, using materials like aluminum and glass for a luxurious feel
  • Sound quality is generally praised as excellent, detailed, and balanced, especially after equalization
  • Comfortable and secure fit, particularly for those with smaller ear canals
  • App provides an intuitive EQ interface with customizable presets

Product Considerations

  • Active noise cancellation (ANC), while solid, is not considered the best on the market compared to brands like Sony or Bose
  • Some reviewers experienced connectivity issues, including problems with multipoint pairing and occasional signal dropouts
  • Battery life is respectable but not outstanding, with some reviewers noting shorter-than-advertised playback times
  • Responsiveness of the touch controls is sometimes too sensitive, leading to accidental pausing or track skipping
  • Some users have found the default sound profile (Optimal) to be somewhat flat or boring, requiring EQ adjustments

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Apple AirPods Pro, the EX has more clarity, better soundstage and separation, but tonal balance may be preferable on the Airpods Pro
  • Compared to the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3, the Beoplay EX offers a more balanced and detailed presentation with a more luxurious build
  • Compared to the Devialet Gemini II, the Gemini II offers a more neutral sound signature with advanced ANC capabilities, but Beoplay EX offers a more balanced and detailed presentation with a more luxurious build

Takeaway: The Beoplay EX offers a luxurious experience with refined sound and a stylish design. It's a good choice for those who prioritize sound quality and aesthetics, and value a premium feel.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
Svanar Wireless
499
/
Released
2023
SVANAR Wireless — Ultimate Personal Audio in True Wireless Form.
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HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality, potentially challenging cabled IEMs, with a dynamic and holographic rendering and beautiful mids and airy treble.
  • Effective ANC, making it suitable for reducing ambient noise, even in noisy environments, with up to 35dB of noise attenuation.
  • Good build quality, with the IEMs made of lightweight metal and Kevlar, and a sturdy charging case.
  • Good bass performance, with texture and extension, punchy, without overpowering, and a powerful but tight impact.
  • Wide soundstage, creating a spacious and immersive listening experience.

Product Considerations

  • Connectivity issues with LDAC, especially outdoors or in areas with interference, leading to intermittent signal drops.
  • Transparency mode might generate turbulence in windy conditions due to microphone placement.
  • Limited codecs available, with no aptX support.
  • Physical size of the charging case is large and might not be pocket-friendly.
  • Included eartips may not be suitable for all ear sizes, with a shorter nozzle affecting fit for some users.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Final ZE8000: Svanar Wireless offers a more W-shaped and punchy signature, greater upper mids gain, more precise imaging, and a vaster sound layering capability, while the ZE8000 sound more neutral to L shape, warmer, and have more sub bass boost and warmth.
  • Vs Noble FoKus Mystique: Svanar Wireless has some emphasis in the bass, but not as much, has stronger overall imaging performance—providing a wider soundstage and the best balance between the separation and cohesion in the imaging.
  • Vs HIFIMAN Svanar (wired): Svanar Wireless soundstage is taller and wider but not as deep, since clarity isn’t as sharp and clean, silence being more ”noisy”.
  • Vs Sony WF-1000XM4: The Svanar Wireless presents a much more detailed, natural and sophisticated kind of sound, while Sony has bloated bass, that overwhelms everything else.
  • Vs Apple AirPods Pro: The Svanar Wireless generally outperforms the AirPods Pro in sound quality.

Takeaway: The Svanar Wireless is a solid choice for TWS lovers, with a top-tier sound quality, effective ANC, and its convenience and comfort. It is innovative, less bass-heavy tuning, and overall a solid proposal.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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.
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Audio-Technica
ATH-M50xBT2
219
/
Released
2021
The ATH-M50xBT2 is the second generation of our critically acclaimed M-Series wireless over-ear headphones. These headphones feature 45 mm large aperture drivers in a wireless design, so listeners will enjoy the same sonic signature of the legendary ATH-M50x studio headphones.
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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

  • Neutral and balanced sound profile makes it suitable for studio monitoring and critical listening
  • Comfortable for extended use due to soft padding on the earcups and headband
  • Sturdy and robust build quality uses metal in key areas
  • Long battery life often exceeds the advertised 50 hours in tests
  • USB-C charging and a quick charge feature, providing multiple hours of playback with a short charge, are also highlighted
  • The Audio-Technica Connect app enables users to customize the sound profile using an equalizer and presets, adjust L/R balance, customize voice assistant preference, customize volume, and other settings
  • Flexibility of both Bluetooth wireless and wired connectivity via a 3.5mm audio jack
  • Multipoint pairing, allowing simultaneous connection to two devices, is also a valuable feature

Product Considerations

  • Absence of ANC is a common point of concern
  • While the headphones offer decent passive isolation due to their over-ear design, they do not block out noise as effectively as ANC-equipped alternatives
  • Heat can build up after longer listening sessions
  • The earcups can sometimes be backward when putting on the headphones
  • Tight fit may be uncomfortable for users who wear glasses or have larger heads
  • Inconsistent bass and treble delivery, and are sensitive to the fit, seal, and positioning of the headphones on the head

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bose QC35: The ATH-M50xBT2 has a slightly shorter battery life, but unlike the Bose, it lacks noise cancelling
  • Vs Sennheiser HD450BT: The ATH-M50xBT2 has a slightly shorter battery life than the Sennheiser HD450BT, but unlike the Sennheiser, it lacks noise cancelling
  • Vs Sony WH-1000XM4: The Sony WH-1000XM4 is more comfortable and well-built, and unlike the Audio-Technica, it features an ANC feature
  • Vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT: The ATH-M50xBT2 has a longer continuous battery life and better recording quality
  • Vs Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT: The ATH-M50xBT2 also features sound customization options and multi-device pairing
  • Vs Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless: The Anker Soundcore Life Q30 Wireless feature an ANC feature, unlike the Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Wireless

Takeaway: The ATH-M50xBT2 headphones are a solid choice for those seeking balanced sound, comfort, and versatility in both wireless and wired modes. These headphones are suitable for listening to music, working from home, or in the office.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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