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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
- Very easy to drive, performing well even with simple sources
- Comfortable and lightweight design makes it suitable for long listening sessions or gaming
- Sound quality is well-balanced, fairly neutral with a slight warmth, and safe treble presentation
- Good soundstage is capable of presenting both intimate and expansive soundscapes, and is immersive
Product Considerations
- Stock cable is considered 'fine' but unremarkable, and some reviewers recommended third-party cables
- Build utilizes plastic components which concern some reviewers regarding long-term durability, specifically the plastic around the metal screws that connect the cups to the headband
- Bass is linear but can be 'soft' or lacking in impact, which may not satisfy bass enthusiasts
- The angled driver and fit might need adjustments to get the right presentation
- Upper treble tuning can be unrefined and sound splashy with some recordings, causing imbalance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Sennheiser HD6XX: The AR5000 has a bit more bass emphasis
- Vs. Sennheiser HD600: The AR5000 has more bass extension, and the HD600 is more intimate and forward in the mids
- Vs. HIFIMAN Edition XS: The AR5000 blends the mid-range and treble performance of both the HD6xx and the Edition XS
- Vs. beyerdynamic DT900 Pro X: The AR5000's bass feels more diffuse and 'effortless', while the DT900 proX provides a bit more body
Takeaway: The AR5000 is a comfortable and versatile headphone that offers a balanced sound signature suitable for various genres, and is easy to drive. It's a good option for those seeking a pleasant listening experience without harshness, and can be used for music and gaming.
All
AR5000
reviews
Manufacturer details
- Driver: 50 mm innovative driver MLD diaphragm
- Impedance: 28 Ohm
- Weight: 1.5 kg (3.3069 lb / 52.9109 oz)
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:
- Aune distinguishes itself by implementing fully discrete Class A amplification in many of its products, resulting in a warm, smooth, and natural sound signature valued by audiophiles seeking an alternative to clinical-sounding amplifiers.
- They prioritize high-quality components, such as toroidal transformers, audiophile-grade capacitors, and hand-picked transistors, to achieve exceptional sonic performance in their price range.
- AUNE's unique design language, often characterized by an "arc" shape and visible internal components, sets its products apart aesthetically from more generic-looking audio gear.
- The brand offers a range of products that feature swappable op-amps, enabling users to customize the sound signature according to their preferences.
Select products
BU1-Portable-DAC-with-Headphone-Amplifier
- Positioning: Entry-level design focused on portability and affordability.
- Description: Offers a compact DAC and headphone amplifier suited for on-the-go audio setups and small room use, with a straightforward design that meets basic connectivity needs. Compared to other models, it has fewer advanced controls and processing options, making it ideal for users with a limited budget and simple functionality requirements.
Yuki-USB-DAC-with-Headphone-Amp
- Positioning: Budget-friendly desktop solution designed for streamlined USB audio performance.
- Description: Features a clear USB input interface and precise DAC circuitry that provide improved sound clarity for desktop listening. Compared to the portable BU1 and more feature-rich models, it addresses basic needs at a modest cost while offering reliable performance for everyday use.
X1s-GT-X1s-GT-BT-DAC-with-Headphone-Amp
- Positioning: Mid-range option offering a blend of wired and wireless connectivity for versatile setups.
- Description: Integrates both Bluetooth and digital inputs in a robust DAC/amp package that supports varied audio sources, making it adaptable for home or portable applications. Compared to the entry-level designs, it provides better build quality and added connectivity without reaching premium price levels.
X8-XVIII-X8-XVIII-BT-Magic-DAC
- Positioning: Advanced model featuring a unique Bluetooth transmission system for enhanced digital audio.
- Description: Introduces a proprietary BT Magic feature that improves wireless connectivity and digital conversion quality, making it a notable upgrade in performance for modern audio setups. Compared to lower-priced models, it delivers superior digital-to-analog conversion and connectivity features while still being positioned below the top-tier S9c Pro.
S9c-Pro-DAC-with-Headphone-Amp-with-AL3-XLR-Balanced-Male-to-Female-3-Pin-Audio-Cable-1-Pair
- Positioning: Premium high-end solution optimized for balanced outputs and precise audio reproduction.
- Description: Uses advanced DAC circuits and balanced amplifier outputs that provide superior audio detail and technical refinement. Compared to every other model in the lineup, it offers more versatile connectivity options and a higher standard of build quality.
Our take on the brand
Look inside the brand
Our interview with the brand
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
DACs are relatively straightforward in concept, but creating a truly outstanding one takes a lot of effort. We do have some unique design philosophies for our DAC products.In the past, our DAC lineup has included many technical highlights—for example, our proprietary PLL (Phase-Locked Loop) technology. This ensures adaptive compatibility across different input sample rates while maintaining synchronization between the DAC and clock signal.Another key feature is that our DACs are designed with independent clock input interfaces from the outset. They can accept external clock signals and even allow seamless switching between internal and external clock sources without interrupting operation. While external clock input is typically reserved for high-end DACs, we insist on supporting it even in entry-level models. Our emphasis on clock signal handling is a major differentiator from our competitors.So if we were to expand on this topic, we’d certainly mention more than just two technical innovations.
What's your approach to customer support?
Generally speaking, our after-sales service policy recommends that users contact the dealer from whom they purchased the product. This is the most direct and convenient way to resolve issues—whether it’s for repairs or replacement due to product faults—allowing for the quickest resolution. This same policy applies to our official online stores. In most cases, we don’t recommend customers contact us directly, because it’s difficult to accurately demonstrate and identify issues without in-person evaluation. Direct communication with us may also lead to unnecessary delays or extra logistics costs and taxes. Working through the dealer allows for more efficient repairs or exchanges.That said, if users have questions about product usage, we’re absolutely happy for them to contact us directly for timely answers and technical support.
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
This is definitely a sensitive question, but we’re not surprised that it comes up. We respect how different brand designers interpret music reproduction, and we fully recognize that mixing and matching different brands is one of the biggest joys for audio enthusiasts. In fact, we often do this ourselves.
Aside from it being fun, it also helps us discover potential compatibility issues with our own products. For example, I think Violectric headphone amps pair quite well with our DACs. But we don’t recommend that people simply copy our choices. To achieve the sound we prefer, we often modify other brands’ gear to best match our products. Through this process, we also gain completely new design inspiration.
Just like others discover their own pairing experiences, we believe there’s no such thing as the “correct” sound—only the sound that aligns with your own preferences.
Used
aune
What if you spend more?
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Product Strengths
- Beautiful design and build quality with premium materials, like a magnesium yoke and genuine leather headband
- Good comfort with memory foam earpads and breathable cloth, though some find the pads shallow
- Well-rounded tonal balance with surprisingly strong bass for an open-back headphone
- Easy to drive and forgiving with different audio sources
- Clear and spacious sound presentation, with accurate imaging
Product Considerations
- The price point may be higher than some consumers want to pay
- The relatively small size might not fit all head shapes comfortably
- Stock cable is reported to have memory and be unwieldy
- Sound staging isn't the widest
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Azurys: Some prefer the sound of the Azurys for some songs and use cases
- Vs Sennheiser HD600: Hadenys has improvements in the bass and treble response, and there's more oomph and weight in the bass
- Vs Focal Clear MG: Hadenys manages to provide a remarkable amount of Clear MG for a lower price
- Vs Focal Elex: dynamics are not on par with the Focal Elex
- Vs Sennheiser HD 660S2: The Focal manages to feel as solid, while looking better, wearing better and sounding better
Takeaway: The Hadenys offers a stylish design, comfortable fit, and well-rounded sound, making it a versatile headphone for enjoying music at home. Its solid construction and easy-to-drive nature make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a premium listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our summary
Product Strengths
- Uses premium materials like carbon fiber, metal, sheep lambskin earpads, and zebra wood faceplates for a luxurious feel, with excellent build quality
- Has a mostly neutral sound signature, with lambskin pads bass response is very good with a tasteful emphasis placed on the sub-bass region, and a decent midrange
- Provides good detail retrieval, resolution, and transparency of sound, the drivers can show plenty of information and micro detail
- A pad swapping system allows changes to sound characteristics, with lambskin pads and breathable fabric pads included
- Comes with a quarter-inch adapter and a 4-pin XLR adapter for use with portable or desktop devices
Product Considerations
- The stock cable is 3 meters long, which is too long for desktop use
- Headband adjustment can be a little stiff to move
- With leather pads, the highs can get slightly sharp
- There is a slight sharpness in the upper treble that might pose a problem for some listeners, using fabric pads can mitigate this
- Weight distribution could be better, there's not enough padding on the headband, and the clamp force is low, this distributes all the weight across the top of the head, which can be bothersome after 40-50 minutes
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HiFiMan Susvara: Has a similar driver structure
- Vs HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: Is close in terms of technical performance like resolution, transient response, soundstage, depth, and openness
- Vs HiFiMan Arya Stealth: Has a better build quality and bass response
Takeaway: The FiiO FT7 is a well-built, comfortable headphone that offers a neutral-leaning-warm sound that can be tailored with different earpads. The FT7 competes with other headphones that cost significantly more, making it a great pick at its price point.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Product Strengths
- Excellent stereo separation for mixing and monitoring
- Built with aluminum, it has a durable feel
- Designed for reference listening
- Clean, linear, and very detailed mids
Product Considerations
- Sound can be considered somewhat restrained, lacking upper midrange and low to HF 'hype'
- Cloth ear pads may not feel as soft or luxurious as velour pads on some other headphones
- Lacks impact and bite
- Headband padding is uncomfortable
- Single-entry cable is on the right side, which is an unusual placement
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD650: Differences come down to something similar to a full-range studio monitor versus a full-range hifi speaker of equal build quality and similar design, Sennheisers are geared more towards enjoying the brain-pleasing sounds of music, while you probably want to mix with the Neumanns
- Vs Sennheiser HD600/650: The HD600 and HD650 are more comfortable, with a better industrial design than the NDH-30
Takeaway: The Neumann NDH 30 is a tool that can be very helpful for mixing sessions, especially for identifying details in the mid-range of a mix. Its design and build quality also make it a lasting product.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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Product Strengths
- The Wraith features an all-metal alloy body that feels sturdy and durable
- The earcups feature a rotating mechanism, making it convenient to rest the headphones around the neck
- The design is considered stylish, industrial, and unique
- The suspension headband design distributes weight evenly, making it comfortable to wear for long listening sessions
Product Considerations
- The Wraith's headband adjustment system is not very practical and requires a screwdriver to adjust
- Stock pads may not create the best seal, impacting sound isolation
- The soundstage is intimate, and the resolution is average
- The 2.5mm connectors on the earcups might limit replacement cable options
- Sub-bass can roll off with stock pads
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HiFiMan Edition XS: The Edition XS has better resolution, clarity, and sub-bass response out of the box, but the Wraith has superior build quality, materials, robustness, and comfort
- Vs Sendy Audio Aiva: The Wraith and Aiva share a similar bass roll-off
- Vs Moondrop Venus: The Moondrop Venus costs slightly more and provides a wider soundstage and more refined sound
Takeaway: The ThieAudio Wraith has excellent build quality and a unique design, making them durable and comfortable for many users. The sound is warm and laid-back, making them suitable for casual listening.
Video review
Our take on the brand
What competes at this price?
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Comfortable design, especially with velour ear pads, making them suitable for long listening sessions
- Solid and sturdy build quality, often using metal components
- Balanced and neutral sound with a decent soundstage, making them appropriate for mixing
- Good stereo reproduction and detailed tonal depth
- Wide frequency response allows for hearing details in mixes and spacious sound
Product Considerations
- Open-back design leads to sound leakage and poor noise isolation
- High impedance (250 ohms) may require an amplifier to achieve sufficient volume and optimal performance
- Non-detachable cable can be a point of failure and inconvenience for replacement
- Can sound harsh due to boosted treble frequencies
- Coiled cable can be heavy and pull on devices
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- DT 990 PRO has a more immersive soundstage but less bass emphasis and poor noise isolation, compared to the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO
- DT 990 PRO has a bit more low-end, while the Sennheiser HD 560S has a more even top-end
- DT 990 PRO has more balanced mid and treble, but the Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X has wider soundstage and can play loud sound without distortion
- DT 990 PRO is better built with a wider soundstage, while the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x provides passive noise isolation and emphasized bass
- DT 990 PRO offers better value with excellent build and better bass extension, while the Sennheiser HD 600 has a slightly more spacious soundstage
- Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO has better bass response but sharper treble, the DT 990 PRO is still a great option for professionals
Takeaway: The DT 990 PRO are comfortable headphones with great sound, suitable for studio use in quiet environments or for gamers who want to hear all the details. They may need an amp, but will allow users to work confidently on their music.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent resolution and imaging capabilities
- Features a nanometer thickness diaphragm and Stealth Magnet design that improves transient response and lowers harmonic distortion
- Easy to drive, it is among the most efficient open-back planar magnetic headphones on the market right now
- Features a tight, textured, and clean bass response
- Good detail retrieval and vocal clarity
Product Considerations
- Treble might be too much for some listeners
- May not be the most lively in macro-dynamics
- Reviewers note a slightly dry timbre
- Lean, slightly cold mid-range
- The included 3-meter cable is not useful for desktop use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Similar to the Meze 109, but a planar
- Sounded a little bit more hifi than the Austrian Audio Hi-X 65
- Has a more warm, natural feel than the original Ananda
- Easiest to drive when compared to the Edition XS
- Superior in technical performance when compared to the Hifiman Sundara
Takeaway: The Ananda Nano is a well-tuned headphone with superior resolution and marvelous timbre, particularly good for electronic music and those who care about vocal clarity. It's a planar alternative that’s incredibly fast and detailed, with excellent imaging and soundstage.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- The Anser is wonderfully comfortable.
- Exceptional build quality, with premium materials rarely seen at this price point.
- It delivers a sound that's well-balanced across all frequencies.
- The Anser is easy to drive from absolutely anything.
- It has a nice sense of weight and presence in its sound, particularly in vocals and solo instrumentals.
Product Considerations
- The soundstage is somewhat restricted in width.
- The midrange is not great.
- The stock cable is a little stiff.
- Treble enthusiasts may occasionally find the presentation less energetic.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD 560s: The Anser is significantly more comfortable and feels better built than the HD 560s, but the HD 560s is a little brighter and sharper in the treble.
- Vs Drop and Sennheiser HD 6XX: The Anser would win for most people on build quality and possibly comfort too, and is going to win for bass because extends down deep, and it's solid and full.
- Vs Philips Fidelio X2HR: The X2HR has a wider, more open soundstage, and a little more nuance in the midrange.
- Vs Sivga Oriole: The Anser has slight advantages, such as soundstage, which is still limited but nevertheless better than the Oriole.
- Vs FiiO FT1 Pro: The Anser has a slightly warmer sound signature, with a more pronounced bass response.
Takeaway: The Sivga Anser offers great build quality and is very comfortable, making it a great choice for people who want a fun and engaging listening experience. This is a headphone that prioritizes musicality over technical prowess, offering an inviting sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality, using premium materials like metal headbands and yokes, wood cups, and soft leather or velvet for comfort
- Comfortable, with plush ear pads and a lightweight design, making it suitable for long listening sessions
- Easy to drive and scales well with better gear
- The sound signature has a good balance of detail, musicality, and accurate tonality, making it a versatile option
- Clarity and separation of instruments with a good soundstage and decent imaging
Product Considerations
- The included cable is of lesser quality compared to the build, noting its stiffness and memory effect
- The bass response may not satisfy bassheads as it rolls off slightly in the sub-bass region
- The treble and upper mids can be a bit forward or 'shouty', potentially causing listening fatigue for treble-sensitive individuals
- The symmetrical design can make it difficult to quickly discern the left and right sides
- The included case is not aesthetically pleasing to all reviewers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD 600: The Luan has better bass and a larger soundstage, but the HD 600 is slightly better in tone and timbre
- Vs Sivga Robin: The Luan has a different sound and build quality than the Robin, which is more aggressive
- Vs beyerdynamic DT900 Pro X: The mids have better details on the DT900 Pro X
Takeaway: The Sivga Luan is a well-built and comfortable headphone with a balanced sound, making it a great choice for extended listening and versatile across different sources. It is a stylish, easy-to-drive headphone with enough punch and clarity to appeal to a wide range of listeners.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good build quality for the price
- Comfortable, especially with the updated headband design
- Decent detail retrieval and resolution throughout the frequency range
- A good entry point for trying planar drivers
- Good imaging and instrument separation
Product Considerations
- Stock cable is of very low quality and microphonic, replacement is recommended
- Sub-bass is lacking, and the bass response may not satisfy bass enthusiasts
- Treble can get fatiguing with potential peaks
- Pads flatten out quickly
- An amplifier is needed to shine
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN Sundara: HE400se has a brighter sound, while the Sundara is smoother with a warmer quality, and the Sundara is significantly better overall and worth the upgrade
- Vs HIFIMAN HD560S: HE400se has a smoother treble presentation
Takeaway: The HE400se provides a taste of planar sound at an affordable price and is great for those wanting to experiment with modifications. The HE400se is definitely worth it for anyone looking for open back headphones with great sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
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