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
- Lightweight and comfortable for long periods of gaming at around 265g
- Good sound quality with clear and detailed audio, with an impressive frequency response of 12Hz-24kHz
- Sturdy build quality with a metal headband strap and metal earcup hinges
- Microphone quality is considered very good or excellent, with crystal clear sound
Product Considerations
- No physical controls are present on the headset itself, like a volume wheel
- The non-removable microphone may not be ideal for commuting or general use
- Spatial sound software can be fiddly to set up and CPU intensive, with high CPU usage
- Some reviewers found the headband uncomfortable for long periods of use
- No active noise cancellation (ANC)
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Austrian Audio HI-X15, the PG-16 is identical except for the addition of a microphone
- Compared to the Austrian Audio PB-17, the PG16 is similar in looks and performance, but the PB17 is a better all-rounder for music and conferencing
Takeaway: The PG16 is a lightweight and comfortable gaming headset with good sound and microphone quality that is worth considering for gamers looking for a wired solution, and appreciate clear, detailed audio for both gaming and music.
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
PG16
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
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Driver: 44 mm High-Excursion (Hi-X) Dynamic Driver
- Frequency Range: 12 Hz – 24 kHz
- Impedance: 25 Ω
- Sensitivity: 113 dB SPL/V
- Input Power: 150 mW
- Type: Omnidirectional boom mic
- Function: Lift-to-mute
- Cable: Detachable, 1.4 m (4.59 ft)
- Connector: 3.5 mm (⅛″) TRRS
- Adapter (Included): 3.5 mm TRRS → 2 × 3.5 mm TRS (for PC)
- Dimensions: 205 × 180 × 80 mm (8.07 × 7.09 × 3.15 in)
- Weight (without cable): 265 g (0.58 lb / 9.35 oz)
Description
The Austrian Audio PG16 gaming headset helps you get into the zone—and stay there. Hear every footstep and rustle from all sides thanks to our especially designed High Excursion Drivers. The advanced headset mic will ensure that your team hears you loud and clear. Lightweight, comfortable and durable, PG16 combines a premium fit with pristine audio to elevate your gaming experience.
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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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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Used
Austrian Audio
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What if you spend more?
Dan Clark Audio
Noire X
999
999
/
13
Reviews
Dan Clark Audio sets itself apart with its patented Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System, which uses waveguides and resonators to shape frequency response to uniquely close adherence to various targets, and a unique tensioning system that ensures consistent performance across their headphone units. Their summit-tier headphones feature an uncommon folding design for portability, and their self-adjusting headbands offer extended comfort during long listening sessions.
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Product Strengths
- Excellent, well-balanced tuning, especially for a closed-back headphone
- Good bass response, being tight, punchy, and hard-hitting with quality and fidelity, but not overly bassy
- Comfortable to wear, using the self-adjusting headband and comfortable pads from the E3 model
- Shares a lot of similarities with the E3, but at a lower price point
- Good soundstaging, with decent width and depth for a closed-back headphone
Product Considerations
- The Piano Gloss Black finish is prone to fingerprints, smudges, and scratches, making it difficult to keep clean
- Soundstage could be wider compared to some competitors
- Detail retrieval is good but not a standout feature and may not be at the level expected for the price, particularly when compared to higher-end headphones
- Highs can be a little spicy, and the treble can be a bit more exciting, but less refined than E3
- Pads are glued on, which may make pad replacement more difficult, while being an upside for better seal to the baffle
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Dan Clark Audio E3: Is 90% of the headphone that the E3 is at half the cost
- Vs. Sennheiser HD6XX: The low-end is miles better, mids are almost equally delicious, but the highs are where the HD6XX seems a tad cleaner
- Vs. ZMF Auteur Classic: The Dan Clark Audio Noire X is the more technical and more neutral ride
Takeaway: The Noire X is a comfortable, well-tuned, and versatile closed-back headphone that is a great choice for those wanting a smooth and enjoyable listening experience. It offers a lot of value and is a strong contender in its price range.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Dan Clark Audio sets itself apart with its patented Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System, which uses waveguides and resonators to shape frequency response to uniquely close adherence to various targets, and a unique tensioning system that ensures consistent performance across their headphone units. Their summit-tier headphones feature an uncommon folding design for portability, and their self-adjusting headbands offer extended comfort during long listening sessions.
Product Page
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Softears
RSV Reference
729
729
/
10
Reviews
Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Excellent fit and comfortable for many users, even for extended listening periods
- Very well-balanced and tuned sound signature, often described as a warm, mature, or safe Harman-ish tuning
- Smooth treble presentation, avoiding sibilance, sharpness, or fatigue, while still retaining detail
- Good bass performance for an all-balanced armature set, with nice punch and attack, though primarily focused on sub-bass
- Very good natural tonality and timbre, avoiding a metallic or unnatural sound often associated with balanced armatures
Product Considerations
- Soundstage and imaging could be better for the price, described as average and not particularly wide or holographic
- May lack a 'hook' or standout factor in its sound quality, some find it to be a more laid-back and less engaging sound
- The shells are quite big, which may be problematic for users with small ears
- The recessed 2-pin sockets could be designed better with a deeper fit
- May sound 'boring' at mid-to-low volumes, according to one reviewer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Moondrop S8: RSV offers a warmer and fuller sound with a more even midrange, while the S8 is leaner and more forward, with the S8 being more engaging overall
- Vs Dunu SA6: RSV has better bass quality, while the SA6 has a slightly more pronounced treble
Takeaway: The Soft Ears RSV is a comfortable and well-tuned IEM that delivers a balanced and enjoyable listening experience. It is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a smooth, natural sound with excellent vocal reproduction.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
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Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay HX
749
749
/
10
Reviews
Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
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.
Product Page
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Softears
Twilight
930
930
/
9
Reviews
Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Balanced to warm sound signature with ample bass that is present without overpowering the sound
- Sublime vocals, clear with even minor voice modulations distinctly audible
- Exceptional build quality with premium materials like aircraft aluminum alloy, resulting in a durable yet lightweight design
- Comfortable fit for long listening sessions due to narrow vertical placement in the ear
Product Considerations
- Treble is slightly rolled off, which can sacrifice some airiness and detail in the highs
- Below average passive isolation, not suitable for noisy environments
- Soundstage is average to narrow
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Final A8000: The A8000 has a more natural tonality overall, more air, a wider soundstage, and better separation/layering, while Twilight has more bass with forward vocals and rolled off treble
- Vs 64 Audio Duo: Twilight offers warmth and engagement in its sound signature, especially noticeable in the midrange, while the Duo provides a sound that is rich in detail and expansive in soundstage
- Vs Meze Audio Advar: The Advar is better in critical listening and brass instruments, while the Twilight has better 3D imaging
Takeaway: The Softears Twilight is an excellent IEM that offers a very easy, likeable, and musical sound which can be enjoyed for hours. It offers a balanced to warm sound, sublime vocals, and comfortable fit, making it a solid choice for audiophiles looking for a single dynamic driver IEM.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
Product Page
Product Page
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.
Product Page
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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.
Product Page
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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.
Product Page
Product Page
Austrian Audio
Hi-X50
249
/
Released
2020
The Austrian Audio Hi-X50 on-ear headphones are designed specifically for commanding the room, whether you're performing a DJ set or mixing front of house. Our proprietary High Excursion Drivers work in tandem with the headphone's lightweight design to give you the perfect balance of impactful sonic signature, distortion-free low end and all-day comfort.
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 metal in the headband, folding hinges, and mounting brackets, giving it a robust feel
- Generally comfortable, especially for on-ear headphones, with memory foam earpads, although some users may experience pressure on the ears
- Brutally honest midrange, which is excellent for spotting masking issues and pinpointing resonance control
- Sleek, almost space-age design, and the earcups swivel on well-constructed pivots
- Detachable cable can easily be replaced
Product Considerations
- The standard 3m cable may not be convenient for casual listening
- Some testers found the on-ear design caused excessive pressure on the pinna, making it hard to use for long periods
- The sound out of the box has dips and peaks in the mid frequencies, coloring the sound in a unique and unnatural way
- Some reviewers note that the Hi-X50 makes a mess of many kinds of music and plays vocals poorly
- The Hi-X50s do not really improve over the 55s in terms of isolation
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Hi-X55: More intimate mids presence with more neutral sibilance, while the X55 has excellent clarity at the cost of some accentuated sibilance
- Vs Hi-X55: Altered tuning, with more sub-bass and mid-bass melding, and a blunted mid-bass impact
Takeaway: The Austrian Audio Hi-X50 is a well-built, comfortable, and good-looking headphone option for studio and casual use. Its brutally honest midrange is a great reference for pinpointing frequency issues.
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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