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.
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
Hi-X15
reviews
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Driver: 44 mm High-Excursion (Hi-X) Dynamic Driver
- Frequency Range: 12 Hz – 24 kHz
- Sensitivity: 113 dB SPL/V
- Impedance: 25 Ω
- Input Power: 150 mW
- Cable: 1.4 m (4.59 ft), Detachable
- Connector: 3.5 mm (⅛″)
- Dimensions: 250 × 170 × 80 mm (9.84 × 6.69 × 3.15 in)
- Weight (without cable): 225 g (0.496 lb / 7.94 oz)
Description
The Austrian Audio Hi-X15 headphones are a versatile and affordable option to equip your studio, rehearsal space or home setup with pristine and isolated sound quality. Like the rest of our Hi-X headphone line, the Hi-X15 is equipped with our proprietary High Excursion Drivers, delivering precise low end that never distorts.
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:
- Austrian Audio aims for neutral, insightful sound signatures that prioritize accuracy and transparency, revealing recording nuances.
- The brand offers True Transient Technology in its amplifier, enhancing the clarity and precision of transient response for a more detailed listening experience.
Select products
Select product comparisons
PG16
- Positioning: An entry-level gaming headset designed for affordability and optimal functionality in competitive play.
- Description: Offers clear, immersive sound with high-excursion drivers and noise-suppressing closed-back cups ideal for gaming and streaming. While it lacks the advanced audiophile refinements of other models, it is perfectly suited for gamers with tight budgets and everyday communication needs.
HI-X25BT
- Positioning: A professional wireless over‐ear headphone built for studio-quality sound on the move.
- Description: Delivers excellent clarity and dynamic response using proprietary Hi-Xcursion technology with versatile connectivity options such as Bluetooth, USB-C, and analog. Compared to the entry-level PG16 or the more premium open-back models, it strikes a balance between performance and portability.
HI-X55
- Positioning: A high-quality closed-back headphone designed for detailed monitoring and critical listening in a mid-range price segment.
- Description: Features precise sound reproduction powered by Hi-Xcursion drivers and extra comfort from memory foam earpads for long sessions. In contrast to the lower-priced HI-X25BT and the open-back HI-X65, it provides a balanced, accurate sound profile.
HI-X65
- Positioning: A premium open-back headphone intended for critical listening, mixing, and mastering in professional settings.
- Description: Uses advanced Hi-Xcursion technology to create a wide, airy soundstage with exceptional detail and neutrality. Compared to the closed-back HI-X55 and the gaming-focused PG16, its spacious acoustic design and refined performance provide precise audio reproduction.
The Composer
- Positioning: A flagship reference headphone engineered for audiophiles and high-end studio professionals.
- Description: Features a new 49mm driver with a diamond-like carbon coated diaphragm and multiple detachable cable options that allow for ultimate performance and serviceability. When compared to the more affordable PG16 and the Hi-X series models, it delivers unmatched resolution and versatility.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
810
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
9
Founding Year
2017
Our take on the brand
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
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Austrian Audio
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What if you spend more?
Bowers & Wilkins
Px8
699
699
/
64
Reviews
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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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.
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Mark Levinson
№ 5909
999
999
/
36
Reviews
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.
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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.
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Product Strengths
- Unique octagonal design made of quality materials, with a rugged, serviceable build quality featuring exposed nuts and bolts.
- Surprising amount of bass for an open-back, on-ear headphone, that is solid, tangible, present, well balanced and well tuned.
- The silver-plated OCC copper cable is lightweight, pliable, ergonomic and does not remain bent after staying still.
- Comfortable on-ear headphone, especially considering it's an on-ear design, with thick, soft pads and a comfortable headband.
- Easy to drive with portable devices like dongles or smartphones.
Product Considerations
- Being an on-ear design, the Thalia can become uncomfortable after extended listening sessions (45 minutes or longer) due to pressure on the ears.
- Not the most compact headphone, and does not fold up, limiting its portability somewhat.
- The open-back design results in sound leakage, making it less suitable for noisy environments or situations where discretion is required.
- The height adjustment mechanism, while providing fine control, is a bit fiddly and not easily adjustable on the fly.
- Its lower-midrange will be too full for some.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Thalia is far superior to the Koss Porta Pro and sets a new standard for portable on-ear headphones, but it is inspired by the Porta Pro.
- Compared to the Grado RS2x, the Thalia is more durable, comfortable, and more enjoyable overall, and is more bassy and thicker in the midrange.
- The Thalia has a faster pace and a better driver control, and offers a lot more in the top-octave than the Sennheiser Momentum 2/3.
Takeaway: The Thalia is a uniquely designed, portable on-ear headphone that delivers great sound and is built to last. It is a good option for those who want a distinctive headphone that is fun to listen to.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Erzetich is a Slovenian hifi brand known for amplifiers and headphones that incorporate aged linden wood (a national symbol), vegan construction, and fully serviceable designs with pro-style connectors. They also engineer amplifiers with dual-mono class-A topology.
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Thieaudio
Monarch MKIII
999
999
/
13
Reviews
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- Offers excellent midrange resolution, highlighting subtle details in instruments
- Features a safe yet exciting U-shaped tuning suitable for all genres
- Presents a dynamic and exciting sound signature, clear vocal performances, and a resolving staging performance
- The included cable is of high quality and features interchangeable plugs
- Has great audio reproduction accuracy and consistent audio delivery
Product Considerations
- The upper treble may be a little exaggerated for some listeners
- The shell is larger than average for a universal IEM, which may cause fit issues for some
- Stock ear tips are just okay
- Bass resolution could be better
- Does not have an integrated microphone, so a standalone mic is needed to take calls
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Monarch MKII: The MKIII has increased richness in its midrange and an upper treble exaggeration, offering a slightly U-shaped signature compared to the MkII's balanced profile
- Vs. Symphonium Helios: MkIII's midbass body contrasts Helios' dipped lower mids, MkIII has better overall resolution, but a more exaggerated treble
- Vs. 64 Audio U4s: The MkIII is better tuned compared to the U4s, with the U4s having a thicker midrange and weightier timbre
- Vs. MOONDROP x Crinacle DUSK: The THIEAUDIO have a more detailed treble range
- Vs. MOONDROP Blessing 3: The THIEAUDIO have a more elevated bass range
- Vs. TRUTHEAR x Crinacle ZERO: RED: The THIEAUDIO do a better job blocking out external noise and leak less audio
Takeaway: The Monarch MKIII is a well-tuned IEM that is great for all kinds of music and has excellent technical performance. If one is looking for a high-end IEM with a versatile sound, this could be a great choice.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
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What competes at this price?
Austrian Audio
Hi-X60
399
/
Released
2021
The Austrian Audio Hi-X60 premium closed-back headphones utilize multiple innovations to give you the best possible listening experience. Our exclusive High Excursion Drivers enhance airflow, eliminate distortion and deliver a balanced frequency response, while the closed-back design ensures remarkable sonic detail and accuracy—even in noisy environments.
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Excellent build quality with durable metal parts, making them suitable for studio work and portable use
- Comfortable for long listening sessions with soft memory foam earpads and a headband designed to reduce pressure
- Delivers a clean, neutral, and detailed sound, with good instrument separation and clarity
- Good passive noise isolation, which is beneficial for recording and front-of-house applications
- Decent bass that is deep, clean, and controlled
Product Considerations
- Isolation is average for closed backs, not extremely isolating compared to some competitors
- Treble may be too bright and thin for some listeners
- Some reviewers find the midrange a little recessed
- Bass dynamics are considered a little soft by some
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs AKG K371: Hi-X60 is built better, more comfortable, and has better coupling consistency, but similar sonic compromises
- Vs Austrian Audio Hi-X55: Hi-X60 offers a more open sound and is a significant sonic upgrade
- Vs beyerdynamic DT770 Pro: Technical performance is considered better on the DT770 Pro
- Vs HIFIMAN Edition XS: Hi-X60 sounds more U-shaped and analytical, while the Edition XS is smoother and mid-centric
- Vs KLH Ultimate One: Hi-X60 sounds more resolute and has a better soundstage, whereas the Ultimate One is more bass-heavy
- Vs Audeze Maxwell: Maxwell is a better sounding product overall and has more features, but the Hi-X60 is more comfortable
Takeaway: The Austrian Audio Hi-X60 is a well-built and comfortable closed-back headphone that delivers a detailed and neutral sound, making it a good choice for studio monitoring and critical listening. They are also durable enough to be used on the go, making them a versatile option for music enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
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Austrian Audio
Hi-X55
349
/
Released
2020
The Hi-X55 is the skilled surgeon of the Austrian Audio headphone line—a mid-forward, closed-back headphone that uncovers every detail in your mix. Our handmade High Excursion Drivers reduce internal resonance and enhance membrane movement to give you a fully honest sonic image.
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Good build quality, with a combination of metal and plastic that feels reliable, rugged, and sturdy
- Comfortable for long listening sessions due to replaceable ear pads and a head pad with velcro
- Design allows the headphones to be rotated flat to carry on the neck, and folded inside of the headband for compact storage
- Sound is detailed, natural, and musical, especially in the mid frequencies
- They are clean and clear sounding from the bass frequencies to the mid-range, to the tops
- A shorter cable would be better than the 3m stock cable for desktop amplifier usage
Product Considerations
- The mid-range can be unforgiving
- Can reveal flaws in your source chain
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Versus Sennheiser HDJ-6s, the Hi-X55 offers much more space around the head for a more comfortable listening experience
- Versus Sony MDR-7506s, the Hi-X55 is a step up and is the superior technical performer
- Beyerdynamic has a bit better developed treble because they are less energetic, and because of that, sounds a bit more balanced, but this model delivers more engaging and more natural low frequencies
Takeaway: The Hi-X55 is a well-built and comfortable headphone with a detailed, natural, and musical sound signature, making them great for studio use and casual listening. They are a very interesting newcomer into the mics and headphones world.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
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Austrian Audio
Hi-X65
399
/
Released
2021
The Austrian Audio Hi-X65 premium open-back headphones utilize multiple innovations to give you the best possible listening experience. Our exclusive High Excursion Drivers enhance airflow, eliminate distortion and deliver a balanced frequency response, while the open-back design provides a spacious sonic image that's ideal for mixing, mastering and audiophile listening.
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Solid build quality with a good amount of metal, making them sturdy and durable
- Comfortable for long listening sessions due to soft memory foam earpads and headband
- Balanced and detailed sound, allowing users to hear the music as intended by the sound engineer
- Decent soundstage with good width, depth, and separation
- Foldable design enhances portability
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers find the clamp force to be a bit tight
- Dynamics can be a little soft
- Limited extension on the ear cup sliders may not fit very large heads
- Open-back design offers little isolation from environmental noise, and sound leaks out
- One reviewer experienced occasional cable connection issues
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Austrian Audio Hi-X55: The Hi-X65 has more sub-bass and a more natural midrange compared to the Hi-X55
- Vs HIFIMAN Sundara: The Hi-X65 has more detail, resolution, separation and clarity
- Vs beyerdynamic DT1990: The Hi-X65 has greater detail, resolution, clarity, and object placement
- Vs Sennheiser HD600: The Hi-X65 has a brighter timbral shift, while the HD600 presents a warmer tilt
- Vs Grado Hemp: The Hi-X65 is more open and spacious, but the Grado Hemp has better dynamics
Takeaway: The Hi-X65 headphones are a well-built and comfortable choice for those seeking a balanced and detailed sound for mixing, mastering, or critical listening. They are portable and offer a quality listening experience with a wide soundstage.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
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Austrian Audio
Hi-X25BT
179
/
Released
2021
Whether you're mixing on the go or enjoying premium sound anywhere, the Austrian Audio Hi-X25BT wireless headphones go the distance. Our proprietary High Excursion Drivers give you an unmatched listening experience with impressive clarity and impactful low end, while the closed-back, over-ear design blocks outside noise to keep you fully focused on the music—not your surroundings. The Hi-X25BT features Bluetooth, USB-C, or standard analog connections.
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Wide range of connectivity options including analog via 3.5mm jack, digital via USB-C, and wireless via Bluetooth
- Long battery life of around 30 hours in wireless mode
- Good sound quality for the price, with clear highs and good speech intelligibility
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended listening sessions
- Extensive included accessories, including multiple cables and a carrying case
Product Considerations
- The SBC Bluetooth codec is a limitation, as APTX or AAC would have been preferred
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive and sometimes unresponsive
- There is no active noise cancelling (ANC)
- Bass may be leaner than some rivals, not satisfying bass-heads
- The battery is not replaceable
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Similar to the wired Hi-X15 in terms of sound balance in the mids, but sounds rounder overall with more present bass
- The Hi-X25BT provides a resplendently clean soundscape, like the budget Hi-X15
- Sound seems to be slightly more compressed in the bass, and the overall sound was a little warmer than the wired Hi-X15
- Versus the Sony WH-CH720N, the Austrian Audio Hi-X25BT offers insight and detail
Takeaway: The Hi-X25BT headphones offer numerous connectivity options, good sound, and comfort, making them a solid choice. They are a good pick for people who want wireless sound without spending too much.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
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Austrian Audio
Hi-X20
149
/
Released
2024
Introducing the Austrian Audio Hi-X20, the newest member of our professional headphone lineup. Designed with audio professionals, content creators, and music enthusiasts in mind, the Hi-X20 delivers high-precision sound in a compact, affordable form factor. Whether you're recording, mixing, or just enjoying your favorite music, the Hi-X20 is your reliable, day-to-day companion.
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Clean and revealing sound that's packed with detail
- Good with rhythms, and has a natural sense of rhythm
- Lightweight and good-looking in a modest kind of way
- Good standard of build and finish
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
Product Considerations
- Can be unforgiving of poor recordings and sources
- Slightly light in the bass, which may not satisfy bass enthusiasts
- A shorter cable option would be nice
- Midrange can push vocals too far to the fore, and seem piercing at louder volumes
- Acoustic isolation to the outside is rather unbalanced
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Røde NTH-100: The Røde NTH-100 provides a fuller, more ample lower-end signature, a generally more easygoing, undemanding appeal, and is more forgiving of poor-quality sources and recordings
- Vs Austrian Audio Hi-X15: The Hi-X20 fits seamlessly between the Hi-X15 and Hi-X25, but has a simpler color scheme
- Vs Grado SR80x: The Grado SR80x is a good alternative if you accept an open-back design
- Vs FiiO FT1 and SIVGA Oriole: The FiiO FT1 and SIVGA Oriole are worth considering at Hi-X20-adjacent money, and both feature wood quite prominently as a material
Takeaway: The Hi-X20 are well-made headphones with a sparklingly clear sound that delves deep into music's finer details, being an accomplished and thoroughly entertaining listen. They are a good option for those who enjoy direct, revealing sound and an understated look, also intending to listen for hours on end.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
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