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

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • 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.

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

Thalia

reviews

[{"title":"Erzetich Thalia Headphones: Unconventional, but remarkable","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=leQC_MkW3x4","source":"Passion for Sound","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Erzetich Audio Thalia - Best Sounding Headphone I Won't Listen To! - Honest Audiophile Impressions","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UhfcVTxE7Vk","source":"Passion for Sound","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Erzetich Thalia Headphone Review - It sounds great, but the ergonomics...","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pMKR-Cv2mCA","source":"the Honest Audiophile","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"Erzetich Thalia | Handcrafted On-Ear Headphones Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HhtlOJWjijc","source":"the Honest Audiophile","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"ERZETICH THALIA (FULL REVIEW).","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P5UQ7hgvSiI","source":"Reviews By WaveTheory","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Erzetich Thalia Review - World’s First Handcrafted Portable Headphones","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WiJyUzreHcI","source":"Andy's Tech Tone","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"Erzetich Thalia Review • Ear Fidelity A Portable Rarity","link":"https://www.ear-fidelity.com/erzetich-thalia-review","source":"ear-fidelity.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Erzetich Thalia v2024 Review – Better Than Ever","link":"https://everydaylistening.net/2024/07/06/erzetich-thalia-v2024-review","source":"everydaylistening.net","datePublished":""},{"title":"Erzetich Thalia Review","link":"https://www.headfonia.com/erzetich-thalia-review","source":"headfonia.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Erzetich Thalia Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/erzetich-thalia-review","source":"majorhifi.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Erzetich Thalia Review – World's First Handcrafted ...","link":"https://soundnews.net/headphones/portable/erzetich-thalia-review-world-s-first-handcrafted-portable-headphones","source":"soundnews.net","datePublished":""},{"title":"Erzetich Thalia Review","link":"https://www.headphonedungeon.com/erzetich-thalia-review","source":"headphonedungeon.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Thalia v2024 Edition","link":"https://6moons.com/audioreview_articles/erzetich-thalia-v2024-edition","source":"6moons.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Impedance: 32 ohm
  • Driver: Dynamic 40 mm, titanium
  • Cup system: Open
  • Weight: 280 g
  • Character: Controlled bass, velvety mids and detailed highs
  • Cable: 8-core silver-plated oxygen-free braided copper wire with gold-plated connectors
Thalia is the goddess of sound, versatility and fun. These are the portable on-ear headphones which enable you to get up and go. You can take your favourite music with you, complete with the high-end sound quality you want. Resin cup and carbon fiber headband make an unique aesthetic statement. They are tuned specifically for portable devices, whether it's a DAP, phone, portable DAC or tablet. What's more, they weigh just 280 g meaning you can always have them to hand.
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:

Bacillus Tilia

  • Positioning: A wooden desktop amplifier aimed at buyers seeking affordable style and reliable performance.
  • Description: Offers a hand-carved, aged wooden chassis with top-grade input capacitors and quality op-amps that deliver a silky neutral tone with a slightly warm character. Compared to models like Perfidus or Bacillus II Plus, its design focuses on aesthetic heritage and versatility for small rooms at a budget-friendly price while still meeting basic connectivity needs.

Perfidus

  • Positioning: A compact class-A amplifier designed for users who need detailed and balanced performance in a small chassis.
  • Description: Delivers a flat frequency response with precise detail reproduction thanks to its streamlined design and quality components such as a blue velvet Alps potentiometer. In contrast to products like Bacillus Tilia or Bacillus II Plus, its compact build prioritizes clarity over raw power.

Bacillus II Plus

  • Positioning: A dual-mono amplifier that builds on earlier models to offer enhanced clarity and speed for mid-range applications.
  • Description: Features a triple-reinforced power supply and fully balanced design to provide fast, detailed performance with flexible input/output options. Compared to the lower-priced Bacillus Tilia and Perfidus, it offers an intermediate step up in build quality and power.

Deimos

  • Positioning: A premium dual-mono amplifier crafted for serious listeners requiring balanced sound and high dynamic performance.
  • Description: Incorporates digital volume control, a sleek aluminum chassis, and silver-plated wiring to ensure a natural and wide sound while maintaining precise detail. Relative to the entry-level models like Bacillus II Plus and Perfidus, it delivers a higher level of build quality and performance for larger setups.

Scylla

  • Positioning: A high-end balanced class-A amplifier engineered for an expansive and immersive listening experience with premium headphones.
  • Description: Uses a dual-mono fully balanced design with an upgraded power supply and advanced capacitor stabilization to ensure a relaxed yet expansive soundstage. Compared to the other products in the lineup, it targets users who demand top-tier performance.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
827
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
11
Founding Year
2012

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.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

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From our interview with
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Brand Page

Used

Erzetich

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What if you spend more?

Product image
HIFIMAN
Arya
1299
1299
/
14
Reviews
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent resolution and detail retrieval, making it a clear step up from mid-fi headphones
  • Wide and open soundstage with nuanced imaging, as well as excellent instrument separation
  • Comfortable design, with well-distributed weight, large earcups, and comfortable earpads
  • The Arya Organic is easier to drive than previous Arya versions and sounds better with various equipment, responding well to a decent system
  • Balanced and neutral sound signature, though some find the treble slightly bright

Product Considerations

  • Noted to lack dynamic weight and bass slam, which might disappoint bass enthusiasts
  • Treble response can be fatiguing depending on the music and is somewhat peaky
  • The 5kHz hump stretches vocals and make them timbrally thin at times
  • Some reviewers express concern about the delicacy of the headphones and caution against dropping them
  • The open-back design makes them unsuitable for noisy environments or situations where sound leakage is a concern

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Arya is sharper, clearer, and better resolved than the HiFiMan Ananda, with a more open soundstage, but the Ananda has more bass grunt
  • Both have large soundstages and effortless resolution, but the Arya has a more excited tuning while the Sennheiser HD800S is smoother
  • The Arya has a larger soundstage, but the Focal Clear has better punch and slam

Takeaway: The HiFiMan Arya is a technically impressive headphone that provides excellent sound clarity, a wide soundstage, and a comfortable listening experience. If you appreciate a neutral sound with great detail and aren't looking for heavy bass, the Arya could be a good choice.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
ZMF
Atrium
2499
2499
/
13
Reviews
ZMF is a boutique hifi headphone brand that crafts one-of-a-kind wooden headphones from stabilized resin-wood billets, each harvested, processed, and assembled in the USA. Their patented acoustic systems include the Atrium Damping System (ADS) and the Caldera's trapezoidal magnet structure. The brand offers lifetime driver warranties and maintains measurement transparency using professional B&K equipment. They have created a distinct enthusiast culture around their annual "ZMF November" limited-edition sales.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Stunning aesthetics and high-quality craftsmanship with various wood options and grill designs available
  • Creates a wonderful sense of space with a great spherical soundstage and natural depth
  • Has an amazing ability to be both smooth and detailed at the same time
  • Provides a deep reaching and encompassing bass sound with a punchy and impactful profile
  • Natural and lifelike tonal quality with vibrant midrange and textured vocals

Product Considerations

  • Not ideal for those seeking maximum detail retrieval or a reference-level sound
  • May not be the best choice for music that relies heavily on aggressive, distorted electric guitars due to potential mid-range harshness
  • Bass extension may not reach as deep as some planar headphones
  • The stock cable has shape memory, and some may prefer aftermarket options
  • It's a heavier headphone, so comfort may be a concern for some users

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs ZMF Verite: The Atrium sits alongside it, and is a significant step above the Auteur, in the sense that it is competing absolutely with the Verite, whereas the Auteur doesn't quite reach the heights of the Verite
  • Vs Sennheiser HD650: The Atrium overall tuning is very reminiscent of the Sennheiser HD 650, where it is still fairly neutral, but it tends towards a little bit of warmth
  • Vs HIFIMAN HE1000 V2: The HE1000 V2 has a bigger soundstage, but the imaging and the separation handle spatial reproduction much better than the Atrium does

Takeaway: The ZMF Atrium offers a beautiful design and a unique sound signature that combines smoothness and detail, making it a very enjoyable listening experience across many genres. Its ability to create a lifelike and engaging soundstage makes it a worthwhile option for those looking for something special.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ZMF is a boutique hifi headphone brand that crafts one-of-a-kind wooden headphones from stabilized resin-wood billets, each harvested, processed, and assembled in the USA. Their patented acoustic systems include the Atrium Damping System (ADS) and the Caldera's trapezoidal magnet structure. The brand offers lifetime driver warranties and maintains measurement transparency using professional B&K equipment. They have created a distinct enthusiast culture around their annual "ZMF November" limited-edition sales.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Mod House Audio
Tungsten
1699
1699
/
11
Reviews
Mod House Audio builds high-impedance planar headphones (≈155 Ω) with sound quality rivalling summit-tier options at far more reasonable prices, though have a reputation for being among the most difficult headphones to power properly, attracting enthusiasts who prioritize performance over efficiency. Offering user-selectable single or double-sided magnet drivers with 24k gold conductors and extensive Cerakote ceramic customization options.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Nice cable made in partnership with Viking Wave
  • Attractive design with some components being 3D printed
  • Comfortable to wear with well-distributed weight and ZMF earpads
  • Stands out with its 'warm yet balanced' sound signature, described as having flat bass extension and an emphasized lower mid-range
  • Delivers instrument separation, and sounds reasonably spacious

Product Considerations

  • Build quality can feel a little rough around the edges, which may be noticeable
  • Requires a dedicated headphone amplifier
  • The dual-sided version is more expensive, while the single-sided version is affected by pressure changes inside the pad
  • Sound can come across a little bit crunchy and trebly

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Against Audeze MM500, the MM500 has better build quality
  • Against Meze Empyrean 2, the Empyrean 2 is more comfortable
  • Against Dan Clark Audio E3, the E3s overall sound more competent

Takeaway: The Modhaus Tungsten is a unique headphone built with care. It's enjoyable to listen to, has good bass extension, and the sound can be customized by swapping earpads.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Mod House Audio builds high-impedance planar headphones (≈155 Ω) with sound quality rivalling summit-tier options at far more reasonable prices, though have a reputation for being among the most difficult headphones to power properly, attracting enthusiasts who prioritize performance over efficiency. Offering user-selectable single or double-sided magnet drivers with 24k gold conductors and extensive Cerakote ceramic customization options.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Sendy
Peacock
1499
1499
/
10
Reviews
Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The Peacock uses long-lasting, high-quality materials in its construction, with minimal plastic, and has a handmade feel
  • Comfortable to wear for long listening sessions due to its soft leather headband, memory foam earpads, and suspension strap system
  • Good left-to-right soundstage and spatial qualities, with precise imaging
  • Natural sound, focusing on the bass and midrange regions
  • Easy to drive and has high sensitivity (103 dB per milliwatt), meaning it sounds good even with ordinary headphone jacks

Product Considerations

  • Some reviewers describe the treble as metallic and unnatural, with an unwanted ringing or resonance that can be fatiguing
  • Soundstage depth and imaging are not as impressive as its width, creating a 'tunnel-like vision' or 'b-dimensional' sound
  • Detail retrieval and transparency are lacking compared to other headphones in its price range
  • Heavy (578-580g), which may be a challenge for some listeners
  • Aesthetics may not appeal to everyone due to mismatched design elements, resulting in a lack of cohesion in its appearance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Audeze LCD-X: Has a wider soundstage, but the LCD-X is more resolving, detailed, and technically proficient
  • Vs HIFIMAN Arya Stealth: Has more impactful bass and a fuller midrange, while the Arya has clearer treble and greater detail retrieval
  • Vs Audeze LCD-2: Vocals are more emphasized and engaging, but the LCD-2 is clearer and more detailed
  • Vs Focal Clear MG: The Clear MG's are warmer with more bass impact, more even and forward mids, and darker, less peaky treble
  • Vs Sendy Audio Aiva: Offers better looks, build quality, comfort, clarity, transparency and more details compared to the Aiva

Takeaway: The Peacock is a stylish and comfortable headphone that offers a warm, smooth, and enjoyable listening experience, especially for those who prioritize musicality over technical precision. Its easy-to-drive nature and wide soundstage make it a good option for relaxed listening sessions.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

FIIO
FT7
699
/
Released
2025
The FT7 features a 106mm large planar driver with a patented gold + silver multi-layer coating, 1μm thin special diaphragm, zebrawood grille, and uniform magnetic field. It employs a dual-sided neodymium magnet push-pull magnetic circuit system, weighs 427g with carbon fiber construction, includes lambskin/breathable fabric ear pads, and comes with a liquid nitrogen frozen monocrystalline copper cable and custom Yaoli linen storage bag.
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FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Uses premium materials like carbon fiber, metal, sheep lambskin earpads, and zebra wood faceplates for a luxurious feel, with excellent build quality
  • Has a mostly neutral sound signature, with lambskin pads bass response is very good with a tasteful emphasis placed on the sub-bass region, and a decent midrange
  • Provides good detail retrieval, resolution, and transparency of sound, the drivers can show plenty of information and micro detail
  • A pad swapping system allows changes to sound characteristics, with lambskin pads and breathable fabric pads included
  • Comes with a quarter-inch adapter and a 4-pin XLR adapter for use with portable or desktop devices

Product Considerations

  • The stock cable is 3 meters long, which is too long for desktop use
  • Headband adjustment can be a little stiff to move
  • With leather pads, the highs can get slightly sharp
  • There is a slight sharpness in the upper treble that might pose a problem for some listeners, using fabric pads can mitigate this
  • Weight distribution could be better, there's not enough padding on the headband, and the clamp force is low, this distributes all the weight across the top of the head, which can be bothersome after 40-50 minutes

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HiFiMan Susvara: Has a similar driver structure
  • Vs HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: Is close in terms of technical performance like resolution, transient response, soundstage, depth, and openness
  • Vs HiFiMan Arya Stealth: Has a better build quality and bass response

Takeaway: The FiiO FT7 is a well-built, comfortable headphone that offers a neutral-leaning-warm sound that can be tailored with different earpads. The FT7 competes with other headphones that cost significantly more, making it a great pick at its price point.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Neumann
NDH 30
649
/
Released
2022
The NDH 30 is a circumaural, open-back headphone with outstanding detail resolution and high-precision stereo imaging with razor-sharp localization. Its linear soundstage and superior transient response recommend it for the most demanding applications such as mixing and mastering.
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Neumann pioneered studio recording technology by creating the first mass-produced condenser microphone in 1928 and introducing then-novel features like remotely switchable polar patterns. The company also manufactured the record-cutting lathes that defined vinyl mastering—a rare dual legacy. The brand offers faithful reissues of historic microphones built from original blueprints and studio monitors with phase linearization DSP, serving professional recording engineers and classical music producers who demand period-correct sonics and precise acoustic control.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent stereo separation for mixing and monitoring
  • Built with aluminum, it has a durable feel
  • Designed for reference listening
  • Clean, linear, and very detailed mids

Product Considerations

  • Sound can be considered somewhat restrained, lacking upper midrange and low to HF 'hype'
  • Cloth ear pads may not feel as soft or luxurious as velour pads on some other headphones
  • Lacks impact and bite
  • Headband padding is uncomfortable
  • Single-entry cable is on the right side, which is an unusual placement

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser HD650: Differences come down to something similar to a full-range studio monitor versus a full-range hifi speaker of equal build quality and similar design, Sennheisers are geared more towards enjoying the brain-pleasing sounds of music, while you probably want to mix with the Neumanns
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600/650: The HD600 and HD650 are more comfortable, with a better industrial design than the NDH-30

Takeaway: The Neumann NDH 30 is a tool that can be very helpful for mixing sessions, especially for identifying details in the mid-range of a mix. Its design and build quality also make it a lasting product.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Neumann pioneered studio recording technology by creating the first mass-produced condenser microphone in 1928 and introducing then-novel features like remotely switchable polar patterns. The company also manufactured the record-cutting lathes that defined vinyl mastering—a rare dual legacy. The brand offers faithful reissues of historic microphones built from original blueprints and studio monitors with phase linearization DSP, serving professional recording engineers and classical music producers who demand period-correct sonics and precise acoustic control.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Thieaudio
Wraith
549
/
Released
2022
The original Phantom planar magnetic headphone from THIEAUDIO was an instant success when it launched three years ago. It was a revolutionary community-based product that set the standard for Hi-Fi audio at an affordable price range. From those baselines, the THIEAUDIO team has spent the last three years developing an upgraded planar magnetic driver that redefines technical performance and tonal balance.
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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
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The Wraith features an all-metal alloy body that feels sturdy and durable
  • The earcups feature a rotating mechanism, making it convenient to rest the headphones around the neck
  • The design is considered stylish, industrial, and unique
  • The suspension headband design distributes weight evenly, making it comfortable to wear for long listening sessions

Product Considerations

  • The Wraith's headband adjustment system is not very practical and requires a screwdriver to adjust
  • Stock pads may not create the best seal, impacting sound isolation
  • The soundstage is intimate, and the resolution is average
  • The 2.5mm connectors on the earcups might limit replacement cable options
  • Sub-bass can roll off with stock pads

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HiFiMan Edition XS: The Edition XS has better resolution, clarity, and sub-bass response out of the box, but the Wraith has superior build quality, materials, robustness, and comfort
  • Vs Sendy Audio Aiva: The Wraith and Aiva share a similar bass roll-off
  • Vs Moondrop Venus: The Moondrop Venus costs slightly more and provides a wider soundstage and more refined sound

Takeaway: The ThieAudio Wraith has excellent build quality and a unique design, making them durable and comfortable for many users. The sound is warm and laid-back, making them suitable for casual listening.

Video review

Our take on the brand

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
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
Arya Stealth Magnets
599
/
Released
2020
An advanced diaphragm at the nanometer scale dramatically reduces mass, enabling lightning-fast response, lower distortion, and naturally detailed sound reproduction.
Specially shaped magnets allow sound waves to pass through without interference, minimizing diffraction and distortion for a cleaner, more accurate soundstage.
A precisely engineered grille reduces reflections and refractions, enhancing openness, imaging precision, and overall acoustic purity.
Check Amazon
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Very comfortable, even for extended listening sessions, due to a suspension strap design and large earcups.
  • Soundstage is large and open, creating a concert-like experience with sounds coming from a distance and feeling like a three-dimensional experience.
  • Deliver detailed and transparent sound, making it possible to hear all the nuances in music.
  • Easy to drive with high sensitivity, though still benefit from a dedicated amplifier.

Product Considerations

  • Some reviewers find the bass lacking in punch, preferring a more pronounced bass response.
  • Treble might sound a touch bright and fatiguing, depending on the music and amplification.
  • Build quality isn't mind-blowing for the price; made of plastic and metal, not always appropriate for long-term durability.
  • Stock cable isn't the most wonderful, a little bit stiff.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Audeze LCD-X 2020: Arya Stealth has better resolution and soundstage, but the LCD-X has a more visceral bass and organic sound.
  • Vs HiFiMan Ananda: Arya Stealth is better, with more bass, crisper resolution, and a bigger soundstage; everything is sharper, clearer, better resolved, and more refined.
  • Vs Sennheiser HD800S: Arya has a slightly V-shaped profile, while the HD800S is smoother with a more neutral tuning; both trade blows equally regarding soundstage, imaging, and resolution.
  • Vs HiFiMan Sundara: Arya Stealth has deeper bass response and cleaner sound, while Sundara is warmer and more mid-centric, with darker treble.
  • Vs Sendy Audio Peacock: Arya has clearer, more transparent, and more detailed treble, but Peacock's bass is heavier and more impactful, its midrange is fuller and smoother.
  • Vs HiFiMan Edition XS: Arya Stealth is more comfortable and feels better built, but both have a similar sound, with the Edition XS having a slightly punchier bass.

Takeaway: The Arya Stealth Magnets are great for listeners looking for exceptional imaging, transparency, and clarity in their music, offering a high-end sound experience with a spacious soundstage. These headphones are a good option for audiophiles who want a detailed and engaging listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Sendy
Aiva
599
/
Released
2019
After three and a half years of hard research and development, sound tuning, innovation and breakthrough, the black beauty planar magnetic series are finally formed. AIVA is a collection of countless efforts, from the overall industrial design, acoustic solutions to final production.
Check Amazon
Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Premium build quality and materials, including zebrawood earcups, leather, aluminum, and steel
  • Detailed and resolving sound signature, with an airy and extended high-end
  • Wide soundstage and precise imaging for an immersive listening experience
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions due to a well-designed comfort strap and plush earpads
  • High-quality stock cable made of 6N single crystal copper

Product Considerations

  • Can sound sharp or metallic if underpowered, requiring a powerful and warm source
  • Bass response is somewhat reserved, lacking significant impact for some listeners
  • Lower mids can lack presence and definition compared to the upper midsection
  • Treble can be bright and fatiguing for some, and may exhibit mild veiling in densely orchestrated tracks
  • Driver matching may not be perfect past 2kHz, potentially causing channel imbalance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sivga P2 Pro: Aiva 2 sounds more balanced and relaxed with a warmer tonality compared to P2 Pro, which has a slightly brighter tonality due to a more elevated upper midrange
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600: Aiva offers superior design, materials, cable, technicalities, and a wider frequency response

Takeaway: The Sendy Audio Aiva 2 is a beautifully crafted headphone that delivers a detailed and engaging sound, perfect for listeners who appreciate clarity and high-frequency sparkle. With its comfortable design and premium build, the Aiva 2 provides a luxurious listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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