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

  • Delivers natural sound with good resolution, nice mids, and a good three-dimensional stage
  • Comes with a great accessory set, including different types of foam tips to tweak the sound
  • Has a very nice, high-quality cable
  • Comfortable to wear for extended periods, especially compared to IEMs
  • Soundstage is wide, open, and larger compared to IEMs

Product Considerations

  • Not ideal for noisy environments, due to the lack of noise isolation
  • Bass might not be as impactful as in-ear monitors
  • Cable is not detachable, damage to the cable means damage to the EM5

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Astrotec Lyra Nature, the EM5 has better bass extension and a bigger, warmer mid-bass

Takeaway: The FiiO EM5 is a high-quality earbud for those wanting a natural and comfortable listening experience with an impressive soundstage. Its unique design and included accessories make it stand out from other earbuds.

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

EM5

reviews

[{"title":"FiiO EM5 Earbuds Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4xCXH_mow2s","source":"Soundnews","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"FiiO EM5 earbuds review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=psMRKLOnGJ4","source":"Soundnews","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"FiiO EM5 Earbuds - Warm, Detailed & Open","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ck4lBE5uSHc","source":"Porta.Fi","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"🟥IEM Analysis #32764 _(Z Reviews)_ FiiO EM5 // Astrotec Lura Nature // Hiby Beans // Tin T1+","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZnNpDsMUl9E","source":"Porta.Fi","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"FiiO EM5 Review – A Trip Down The Memory Lane","link":"https://soundnews.net/headphones/iems/fiio-em5-review-a-trip-down-the-memory-lane","source":"soundnews.net","datePublished":""},{"title":"FiiO EM5 Review","link":"https://www.headfonia.com/fiio-em5-review","source":"headfonia.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"FiiO EM5 Review","link":"https://headfonics.com/fiio-em5-review","source":"headfonics.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Fiio EM5 Review – Reincarnation - Everyday Listening","link":"https://everydaylistening.net/2020/10/09/fiio-em5-review-reincarnation/2","source":"everydaylistening.net","datePublished":""},{"title":"FiiO EM5 TOTL Earbud Review","link":"https://moonstarreviews.net/fiio-em5-earbud-review","source":"moonstarreviews.net","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

  • Sensitivity: 109dB@1mW
  • Cord Length: About 120cm
  • Frequency Response: 10Hz ~ 20kHz
  • Headphone Type: Straight-down open earbuds
  • Impedance: 32Ω@1KHz
  • Dynamic Driver: 14.2mm beryllium-coated diaphragm
  • Max Power Input: 100mW
  • Weight: 23.9g (including cable)
With its carefully engineered acoustics and excellent materials, the EM5 reaches a new height in earbud sound quality. The well-extended yet controlled bass, lush vocals, and clear yet unfatiguing treble will give you an unforgettable musical experience.
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:

  • FIIO combines Bluetooth capability, high power output, and a desktop mode in their portable DAC/amp designs.
  • They offer a high degree of user customization through their control app, allowing for adjustments such as parametric EQ and device behaviors.

K7  

  • Positioning: An all-in-one balanced desktop DAC and headphone amplifier designed for affordability and compact convenience.  
  • Description: Uses THX AAA 788+ amplifier technology and a six-stage audio circuit to provide clean, balanced sound suitable for everyday listening in small room setups. Compared to the other models, its feature set is streamlined without some of the advanced digital processing and power management found in the higher-end products.

K9AKM  

  • Positioning: A desktop DAC and headphone amplifier built around AKM DAC chips to offer enhanced audio clarity at a moderate price point.  
  • Description: Focuses on a refined AKM-based design that delivers lower distortion and improved detail over the entry-level K7 while keeping the design compact and easy to use. In comparison with more premium models, it strikes a balance between performance and cost, offering better resolution.

K19  

  • Positioning: A high-power DAC and headphone amplifier aimed at users who need robust output for driving demanding headphones.  
  • Description: Incorporates advanced circuitry and a design optimized for high-current performance to maintain clear and natural sound even at louder volumes. Relative to the K7 and K9AKM, the K19 adds more power and precise output control while being less digitally complex than the top-tier models.

K11R2R  

  • Positioning: A desktop DAC and headphone amplifier that employs a fully differential 24-bit R2R resistor ladder for superior resolution and detail.  
  • Description: Offers dual NOS and OS modes along with a high-quality electronic volume control to enhance dynamic range and clarity. Compared to the more basic K7 and K9AKM, its advanced resistor architecture and multi-stage power supply deliver lower noise and customizable gain settings.

K17  

  • Positioning: A high-end desktop DAC and headphone amplifier designed for uncompromising performance and extensive functionality.  
  • Description: Features a fully discrete amplifier circuit with advanced DSP, dual AK4499 DAC chips, and separate analog/digital circuitry to ensure smooth, natural sound with high output power. In contrast to other products in the lineup, the K17 provides top-tier build quality, multiple protection systems, and an extensive set of digital processing features.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
31
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
226
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
69
Founding Year
2007

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.

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?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
FIIO
FT7
699
699
/
11
Reviews
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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
Product image
Erzetich
Thalia
817
817
/
13
Reviews
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Neumann
NDH 30
649
649
/
11
Reviews
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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
Product image
Thieaudio
Wraith
549
549
/
10
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
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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

What competes at this price?

FIIO
FT3
169
/
Released
2023
The FT3 is a large dynamic high-res over-ear headphone featuring a 60mm dynamic driver with a beryllium-plated gasket and DLC diaphragm, 350Ω high impedance, and an asymmetric internal and external magnetic circuit system. It features an open-back design, Furukawa monocrystalline copper cable, and aluminum alloy construction with lightweight hollow design.
Check Amazon
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

  • Well-made build quality and premium materials provide an expensive feel
  • An impressive accessories package is included, featuring a hard carrying case, soft bag, interchangeable cable system with multiple terminations (3.5mm, 4.4mm, XLR, 6.35mm adapter), and two sets of earpads
  • The two included earpad sets (suede and pleather) offer different sound signatures, allowing users to tailor the sound to their preference
  • Reviewers found the FT3 comfortable to wear for extended periods, with a suspension headband and swiveling earcups that accommodate various head sizes

Product Considerations

  • The earpad openings might be a bit small for some users, potentially causing the headphones to sit slightly on-ear instead of fully over-ear
  • The FT3 (350 ohm version) requires a decent amplifier to sound its best, and may not be suitable for portable devices or low-power sources

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HIFIMAN Sundara: The Sundara offers more detail and better soundstaging, while the FT3 has a stronger bass response

Takeaway: The FiiO FT3 headphones have great build quality, a wide range of included accessories, and versatile sound options thanks to the included ear pads, and provide great value for the price. They may be a good fit for listeners looking for headphones that will work with different sound setups, and can be used for different styles of music or for work.

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
FIIO
FT5
499
/
Released
2023
The FT5 is FIIO's first set of planar magnetic headphones, providing intense energy to your sound like a thunderstorm.
Check Amazon
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

  • Comes with a nice leathery carry case and a soft bag.
  • The detachable cable comes with all sorts of adapters, including XLR, quarter inch, 3.5, and Pentagon.
  • Build is simple, sturdy, and functions really well.
  • Well-built and aesthetically pleasing, even surpassing the appearance depicted on FiiO’s website.
  • Overall construction exudes a sense of premium craftsmanship that is rare to find at this price point.

Product Considerations

  • Lacks clarity and detail.
  • FT5 needs lots of current from an amplifier, working better with desktop components.
  • The soundstage of the FT5 does not quite hit the mark, the lateral stage feels limited.
  • Proprietary cable system may limit the options for upgrading or using aftermarket cable alternatives.
  • It won’t fit smaller heads.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the FiiO FT3, the FT5 delivers more information in various places in the treble and provides a really nice balance between bass, mid range, and treble.
  • Think about a Sennheiser HD 650 but without the veil, with boosted transparency and resolution, with a faster sound, with a bigger sound as well, and with a nicer treble extension, and you will get the FiiO FT5.
  • Compared to the HIFIMAN Sundara, the HIFIMAN Sundara offers a more expansive and well-defined soundstage.
  • Compared to the Moondrop Para, the Moondrop Para stands out as a notable case, delivering superior clarity at a significantly lower price.
  • Compared to the Dan Clark Audio Aeon Open X, the FT5 edges out with a smoother and more balanced sound, making it suitable for a wider range of genres.

Takeaway: The FiiO FT5 has great build quality, multiple accessories, and connectivity options. For someone who does not want a fatiguing listening experience, the FT5 could be a worthy option.

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
Sennheiser
HD 560S
279
/
Released
2020
With linear acoustics tailored to extended listening sessions and smooth, gratifying bass performance, the HD 560S was crafted for the analytical audio enthusiast.
Check Amazon
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The HD 560S delivers a flat sound profile that should suit most musical genres
  • Very comfortable, with a relatively lightweight design and plenty of plush padding
  • Soundstage is exemplary
  • Lightweight and provide a nimble feel
  • Excels in delivering both vocals and instruments with a remarkable level of clarity and precision

Product Considerations

  • Some users might find it a bit dull over time due to its conservative sound signature
  • Can be a bit intense at times in the lower treble
  • The plastic construction does not scream luxury
  • Some loss of texture in the mid-bass, with bass notes of different instruments often sounding the same

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs AKG K702: 560S' sound is going to feel a bit closer, but it may not always be a good thing when trying to hear what is farther off in the distance, for gaming
  • Vs Sennheiser HD58X: The 560S is cleaner and more accurate sounding than the HD58X
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600: The 560S is more intimate and livelier sounding than the darker HD600
  • Vs HIFIMAN Sundara: Compared to the more expensive Hifiman Sundara, the 560S sounds like it lacks detail across the frequency spectrum, except in the sub bass region where the Sundara does not seem to dig as deep

Takeaway: The Sennheiser HD560S is a comfortable headphone with a well-balanced sound, making it a solid choice for both gamers and music enthusiasts looking for neutrality and clarity. It is a versatile headphone for various genres and applications.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
Ananda Nano
369
/
Released
2023
Ananda Nano now brings the acclaimed Ananda sound in a more compact, lightweight package while delivering high-resolution planar-magnetic performance.
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

  • Excellent resolution and imaging capabilities
  • Features a nanometer thickness diaphragm and Stealth Magnet design that improves transient response and lowers harmonic distortion
  • Easy to drive, it is among the most efficient open-back planar magnetic headphones on the market right now
  • Features a tight, textured, and clean bass response
  • Good detail retrieval and vocal clarity

Product Considerations

  • Treble might be too much for some listeners
  • May not be the most lively in macro-dynamics
  • Reviewers note a slightly dry timbre
  • Lean, slightly cold mid-range
  • The included 3-meter cable is not useful for desktop use

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Similar to the Meze 109, but a planar
  • Sounded a little bit more hifi than the Austrian Audio Hi-X 65
  • Has a more warm, natural feel than the original Ananda
  • Easiest to drive when compared to the Edition XS
  • Superior in technical performance when compared to the Hifiman Sundara

Takeaway: The Ananda Nano is a well-tuned headphone with superior resolution and marvelous timbre, particularly good for electronic music and those who care about vocal clarity. It's a planar alternative that’s incredibly fast and detailed, with excellent imaging and soundstage.

Video review

Our take on the brand

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
SIVGA
Phoenix
299
/
Released
2020
32Ω low impedance, easy to drive. With just a good audio source paired with a regular phone and computer, you can fully unleash the sound quality effects. Using a professional player makes it even more complementary and adds icing on the cake.
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SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Beautifully made with real wooden cups, nice metallic flourishes, and a nice adjustment system
  • Very easy to drive from any device due to its 32 ohm impedance and 103 dB sensitivity
  • The included hard case is of good quality and protective
  • Comfortable to wear for extended sessions due to its light weight (296g) and well-designed headband
  • Good soundstage width and overall space, with well-defined instrument separation

Product Considerations

  • Some reviewers with larger ears may find the earcups to be too small, causing discomfort
  • Lack of extra treble detail and energy means that some percussion misses its snap and shimmer
  • The headband size is pretty small, so if your head is on the large side, it might not fit
  • Stock earpads are too shallow for some users, causing their ears to touch the inside of the cups
  • The midrange can sound stuffy and veiled, lacking clarity and detail compared to some competitors

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Monolith M1060 V2: The Phoenix has better quality treble, but the M1060 has a better quantity of treble and a more neutral sound
  • Vs Sennheiser HD560S: The HD560S is a reference headphone designed to be analytical and neutral, while the Phoenix is colored, engaging, rich, and warm
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600: The Phoenix is warmer, has deeper sub-bass extension, and a wider soundstage, but the HD600 is more intimate, clear, and detailed in the mids and vocals
  • Vs beyerdynamic DT880: The DT880 has a midbass bump and clearer mids, while the Phoenix has better treble extension
  • Vs HarmonicDyne Zeus: The Zeus is a warmer set, but the Phoenix is better implemented
  • Vs Austrian Audio Hi-X55: The Phoenix has a more environmental feel when it comes to its sub-bass response and a wider soundstage, but the Hi-X55 has a sweeter vocal presentation

Takeaway: The Phoenix offers a warm, rich, and punchy sound signature in a beautifully designed and comfortable package that is easy to drive. It could be a great option for those who enjoy a bass-emphasized sound and listen to genres where extra bass is beneficial.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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