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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
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
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.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
Compared to their other products
We think it's helpful to understand how this product fits into the brand's full lineup (below). To learn more about these products, visit the brand's page.
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.
See all the brand's products
Read the 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
AR5000
images
No items found.
Manufacturer's notes
Manufacturer Specs
- Weight: 1.5 kg (3.3069 lb / 52.9109 oz)
- Impedance: 28 Ohm
- Driver Size: 50 mm
Visit Manufacturer Site
Average Price
$500
Used Products
1
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
112
of 600+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products
11
Founded
2011
Our take on the brand
Aune Audio is a hifi brand known for its unique approach to DAC design, using custom-built clock generators and dual DAC chips to achieve exceptional transparency and natural sound. Their products, from the Yuki DAC to the S17 PRO headphone amplifier with its symmetrical Class A design and Twin JFET, deliver a tube-like sound signature that's easy to drive without high-end amplification.
Brand Page
Most data on ExtremeHiFi is proprietary—researched and reviewed after thousands of hours of loving labor. We archive our site's data and its pages on Archive.org and take legal action against those repurposing the data. We also fingerprint data to know when text and numbers came from us first.
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What if you spend a bit more?
Px8
699
699
/
64
Reviews
Bowers & Wilkins
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Premium build quality and materials with luxurious Nappa leather detailing and a cast aluminum yoke
- Comfortable for long listening sessions with soft earcups and a headband that provides even pressure distribution
- Excellent sound quality with 40mm carbon cone drivers delivering ultra-fast response, low distortion, and a clean, smooth sound signature
- Effective active noise cancellation (ANC) reduces low-frequency sounds and midrange chatter, with the Nappa leather providing a tighter seal
- Realistic soundstage scale with tight, well-defined imaging, with the sound feeling more live and in front of the listener
Product Considerations
- Multipoint pairing is not always seamless, and there might be occasional wind noise from the earcup due to software glitches, with wear detection being inconsistent and inaccurate
- Limited app customization with only bass and treble adjustments, lacking a fully customizable EQ
- Microphone pickup is good in quiet environments, but can be affected by heavy noise gating in noisy conditions, causing voice fade-in/out
- Some emphasis on bass response, which may not appeal to everyone
- There is concern about the Nappa leather being easily scratched
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the PX7 S2, the PX8 offers better sound quality with greater instrument separation and realism due to the carbon fiber drivers, and also features more premium materials
- While the PX8 active noise cancelling does well, Sony still has better mic pickup
- The PX8 provides a good alternative to the Airpods Max
- The PX8 stacks up among some of the best wireless headphones along with the Focal Bathys
Takeaway: The Px8 is a premium wireless headphone with outstanding build quality and sound performance, which is perfect for audiophiles seeking a luxurious listening experience. It combines comfort, effective noise cancellation, and detailed audio reproduction, making it a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing sound quality and high-end materials.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Visit our
Px8
page
Product Page
№ 5909
999
999
/
36
Reviews
Mark Levinson
Lose yourself in your music with the first-ever headphones from Mark Levinson, a pioneer in high-fidelity audio for the past 50 years. Reference-quality sound meets luxurious comfort in a lightweight and durable set of headphones featuring Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that’s perfect for travel. Reveal the hidden details in your music – at home, on the go, or anywhere you find a moment to listen.
Well-known in hifi for decades, Mark Levinson produces high-end solid-state amplifiers that rank among the best. They pioneered high-end audio with their LNP-2 preamplifier, proving that solid-state circuits could outperform tube electronics, and their ML-2 monaural power amplifier became a reference standard for its unparalleled sound quality.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent sound quality with a balanced and refined signature, detailed mids, and smooth treble
- Effective active noise cancellation (ANC) and ambient aware mode
- Premium build quality with high-quality materials such as leather, anodized aluminum, and metallic paint
- Comfortable for long listening sessions due to soft leather ear cushions and a well-designed headband
- Comprehensive codec support (LDAC, aptX Adaptive, AAC) for high-resolution wireless audio
Product Considerations
- High price point, making them inaccessible for many consumers
- App is lacking in some features, such as fully customizable EQ and customizable ANC modes
- On-cup controls are described as basic and not very intuitive to use
- Some reviewers feel the design does not fully convey a sense of luxury for the price
- Occasional reports of issues with the 'on-head detection' feature—causing connection problems
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Bathys: The Mark Levinson 5909 offers a cleaner and more natural tonality with a smoother, more consistent, and detailed treble response than the Focal Bathys
- Vs Apple AirPods Max: The Mark Levinson 5909 offers better sound quality, particularly in the bass frequencies, and is more comfortable than the AirPods Max
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins PX8: The Mark Levinson 5909 measures better in audio quality
Takeaway: The Mark Levinson № 5909 headphones offer excellent sound, comfort, and noise cancellation, making them a top-tier choice for those seeking a premium listening experience. With their high-end sound quality and comprehensive feature set, these headphones are a great option for audiophiles wanting the best wireless experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Well-known in hifi for decades, Mark Levinson produces high-end solid-state amplifiers that rank among the best. They pioneered high-end audio with their LNP-2 preamplifier, proving that solid-state circuits could outperform tube electronics, and their ML-2 monaural power amplifier became a reference standard for its unparalleled sound quality.
Visit our
№ 5909
page
Product Page
Hadenys
754
754
/
13
Reviews
Focal
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.
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Our Summary
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
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.
Visit our
Hadenys
page
Product Page
Dali IO-8
900
900
/
13
Reviews
Dali
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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Our Summary
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.
Visit our
Dali IO-8
page
Product Page
What else competes at this price?
Px7 S2
399
/
Released
2022
Bowers & Wilkins
Px7 S2's custom-designed 40mm drive units and 24-bit-capable wireless platform combine for a truly immersive listening experience that allows you to hear more of what the artist wants you to hear.
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details
Our Summary
No items found.
Product Strengths
- High-end design with premium materials (cloth and aluminum construction, aluminum accent rings, soft faux leather, stitch-free Nappa leather) gives a luxury vehicle feel and understated style
- Comfortable for longer periods thanks to the redesigned form and shape, upgraded pressure-relieving memory foam, oblong earcups for better pressure distribution, and ample room inside the earcups
- Superior sound quality is due to the revised custom 40mm Bowers & Wilkins driver with lower distortion biocellulose diaphragm and 20mm voice coil, carefully positioned and angled inside the earcups
- Integration with the Bowers & Wilkins Music app allows customization of noise canceling levels, ambient pass-through, and EQ tone control
- Improved clarity of voice on phone calls is due to the redesigned microphone pattern
- USB-C socket is the sole input option, though adapters are included
Product Considerations
- Some users may find the wear detection feature too sensitive
- The app offers fewer features than some other headphone apps
- The included cables are somewhat short
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the previous PX7, the S2 has a completely different design, is smaller and easier to carry, and has significant technical improvements
- The PX7 S2 offers a more balanced sound than mainstream offerings by Sony or Bose, which tend to exaggerate mid-bass
- The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 stood out with a more distinguished appearance, a next-level build with nicer tactility, and sound quality is a toss-up—dependent on listening preference
Takeaway: The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 headphones offer a great listening experience with excellent sound quality, beautiful design, and a comfortable fit. They are a solid choice for anyone who wants an upgrade over basic headphones and cares about both style and sound.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Visit
Px7 S2
Page
Product Page
Pi7 S2
259
/
Released
2023
Bowers & Wilkins
What does it take to create category-defining True Wireless earbuds? High-resolution sound and crystal-clear voice calls, an industry-first wireless audio retransmission case, plus a choice of three elegant colors.
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details
Our Summary
No items found.
Product Strengths
- Excellent sound quality with clarity and detail
- The charging case doubles as a wireless transmitter, connecting to non-Bluetooth devices via USB or 3.5mm jack
- Improved Bluetooth connectivity and an extended range of up to 25 meters compared to the original PI7
- Premium design and comfortable to wear for longer durations
- Excellent bass response
Product Considerations
- The B&W app lacks EQ customization options
- Transparency mode has noticeable hiss and is not easily accessible via the earbuds, requiring the app to activate
- Noise cancellation is good, but not class-leading compared to some competitors
- Some reviewers find them bulky and not very comfortable for prolonged use
- No multi-point pairing
Takeaway: The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 is a great choice for those who prioritize exceptional sound quality and appreciate the unique wireless transmitter feature. It provides an immersive and detailed listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Visit
Pi7 S2
Page
Product Page
Px7 S2e
399
/
Released
2023
Bowers & Wilkins
Px7 S2e is the latest iteration of our highly successful entry-level wireless headphones. The 'e' stands for 'evolved', as the Px7 S2e takes inspiration and learnings from our flagship Px8 wireless headphones, together with a re-tuned acoustic performance, to deliver the very best sound in its class.
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details
Our Summary
No items found.
Product Strengths
- Superior sound separation compared to older models, noticeable even to non-audiophiles
- The mobile app enhances usability by allowing users to adjust bass, treble, and noise reduction levels
- Comfortable fit with ample cushioning and a design that's comfortable to wear around the neck
- Premium build quality with attention to detail in design, materials, and hinge smoothness
- The sound is balanced, with distinct highs and bass that booms without overpowering the mix
Product Considerations
- Noise cancellation does not quite match up to Sony, with a small gap forming depending on head position
- Volume up and down buttons take time getting used to, with accidental pausing occurring
- The touch-sensitive earcup feature for pass-through audio from Sony is missed
- Lacks an adapter for airplane screens
- Some reviewers found the earcup size a bit awkward
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sony WH-1000XM3: Px7 S2e offers superior sound separation
- Vs Apple AirPods Max: PX7 S2e is closer to the sound quality of the AirPods Max than the Beats Studio Pro, but the AirPods Max is heavier and less comfortable for long-term use
- Vs Sony WH-1000XM5: Px7 S2e has better sound quality, though the Sony has better ANC
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8: Px7 S2e is very close in sound quality for a much better price
- Vs Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: Px7 S2e has better midrange magic for music
- Vs Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra: Px7 S2e balances ANC and music playback better
Takeaway: The Px7 S2e headphones are a premium product that balances sound quality, comfort, and build. Great sound and a luxurious feel could make these headphones a perfect fit.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Visit
Px7 S2e
Page
Product Page
Melomania P100
233
/
Released
2024
Cambridge Audio
Crafted in London by Hi-Fi engineers, P100 delivers immersive, high-fidelity musical audio with Class A/B amplification from 40mm drivers. With adaptive hybrid ANC and up to 100 hours of user-replaceable battery life, it's designed for boundless listening.
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Expand Details
Our Summary
No items found.
Product Strengths
- Outstanding battery life—offering up to 60 hours with ANC on and 100 hours with ANC off
- Clean, open, reasonably detailed, energetic, informative, and convincing sound quality, with a balanced and neutral tonality
- Classy design, with a pleasing, sturdy build with robust metal elements, and comfortable for long listening sessions
- Features a user-replaceable battery and earpads, promoting longevity
Product Considerations
- Active noise cancellation (ANC) isn't class-leading and can be bettered, and can have small glitches during use
- Noise-canceling can produce a faint static sound when no audio is playing, and a popping noise with movement
- Some reviews mention limited range in the EQ settings within the Melomania Connect app
- Some reviews mention occasional software bugs and connectivity issues with devices
- Do not fold away, and come with a travel case that may be too large for some users
Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 headphones are a solid choice for anyone wanting great sound and very long battery life at a good price. They have a nice design and are built to last, making them a good value overall.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Visit
Melomania P100
Page
Product Page
MMX 100
69
/
Released
2021
beyerdynamic
In gaming, every day is different. And yet, there is an easy way to choose the best champion – with the META PICK. With the MMX 100, it's the perfect combination of high-resolution sound and cross-platform compatibility that makes the MMX 100 the META PICK for every console lover.
Beyerdynamic is known for their Tesla driver technology, which delivers smooth, natural sound while being easy to drive with modest power requirements. 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
No items found.
Product Strengths
- Outstanding build quality with a sturdy metal headband and aluminum yokes, while remaining lightweight at around 296g
- The microphone provides great communication audio quality, outperforming more expensive headsets
- Good imaging capabilities easily delineate the location of various sound cues in a game mix
- A rich sound stage is produced that is surprisingly wide for a closed-back headset, and it fills the head with clean, detailed audio
Product Considerations
- Comfort may be an issue for some, particularly those with larger ears, due to the shallow earcups and small inner diameter of the pads
- Bass output is lacking compared to other gaming headsets, which may disappoint some users
- The volume dial is a point of criticism, with adjustments not being linear and causing static in the right ear cup
- No additional software or surround sound effects are available for this headset, meaning that it's a true plug & play solution
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Astro A40/Logitech G Pro X—the MMX100 has better microphone quality
- Vs Razer Blackshark V2 Pro/Logitech G Pro—the MMX100 conveys a better sense of distance and depth without THX-enhancements or 7.1 surround sound
- Vs DT990 Pro/DT770 Pro—the MMX100 has a more forward and intimate soundstage
- Vs DT 770 Pro or MMX 300—the MMX100 is not as easy on the ears
- Vs Sennheiser HD560S—the MMX100 is not as spacious or immersive
Takeaway: The MMX100 is a reliable headset that sets a new standard with its build and sound quality in its price range. The excellent microphone and imaging make it a solid choice for gamers and multimedia use.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Beyerdynamic is known for their Tesla driver technology, which delivers smooth, natural sound while being easy to drive with modest power requirements. 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.
Visit
MMX 100
Page
Product Page
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
Magazine reviewers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below.
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.
How useful are hifi reviews? We consider them useful for three things: (1) Surfacing new products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've ever heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's unique attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on everything—rarely being negative for fear of souring relationships with manufacturers. Further, they seldom have more than a couple products on-hand at once, relying on their imperfect memories to compare to past products.
Video Review
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