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

  • Considered an excellent deal for the price, challenging even more expensive headphones in terms of technical qualities like speed and instrument separation
  • Extremely comfortable, even for those wearing eyeglasses, the earpads are high-quality vinyl of a soft consistency
  • Offers a sense of clarity that hasn’t been observed in other models, the sound never seems colored or adjusted—just full of detail, on every track

Product Considerations

  • The build is plasticky and cheap, its build quality cannot compete with some dynamic headphones or entry level Stax headphones
  • The energizer's volume control has a dual knob that makes it difficult to balance the left and right channels
  • Can produce spurious sounds, like a real low-level squeal out of these headphones

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Grado RS1: The ESP-950 is far better than the Grado RS1 in terms of speed and instrument separation
  • Anyone who prefers more bass in their sound would do well to also consider the Audeze LCD-2, with a wider frequency range, the sound might seem more dynamic—at the cost of less detail

Takeaway: The Koss ESP/950 is a comfortable electrostatic headphone system that delivers excellent detail and clarity for its price. If you're looking to get into electrostatics without spending too much, this could be a great option.

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

ESP/950

reviews

[{"title":"Audio: Koss ESP 950 Electrostatic Headphone Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s1RQhYTnOEo","source":"Currawong","datePublished":"2015"},{"title":"Z Review - Koss ESP950 Electrostatic EarSpeakers that aren't STAX","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SspT-QN11Bw","source":"Wellness Tech Reviews","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"Koss ESP 950 Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/koss-esp-950-review","source":"majorhifi.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Koss ESP-950 Electrostatic System","link":"https://www.headfonia.com/koss-esp-950-electrostatic-system","source":"headfonia.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Koss ESP/950 electrostatic stereophones","link":"https://www.stereophile.com/content/koss-esp950-electrostatic-stereophones","source":"stereophile.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

  • Frequency Response: 8-35,000 Hz
  • Impedance: 100k ohms
  • Sensitivity: 98 dB SPL/1mW
  • Distortion: <0.01%
  • Cable: Straight, Dual Entry, 4ft
The pinnacle of audio reproduction, the acclaimed Koss ESP/950 Electrostatic headphone system sets the standard for electrostatic headphones.
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:

  • Koss is known for electrostatic headphones and complete systems, including dedicated energizer/amplifiers, at a comparatively affordable price.
  • The brand balances the retro aesthetic of classic designs with modern features such as wireless connectivity and detachable cables.
  • The brand fosters a community around its products, evident in collaborations with companies such as Drop, and is receptive to community feedback in design and development.

Porta Pro

  • Positioning: The entry-level design focused on portability and everyday use.
  • Description: Features updated aesthetics with inline controls and a comfortable build that suit small-room or on-the-go listening. Compared to the mid-range and electrostatic models, it offers a simpler sound signature and basic functionality without high-end tuning.

PRO/4AA

  • Positioning: A mid-range option aimed at users looking for robust, everyday performance.
  • Description: Delivers clear sound and reliable build quality that make it suitable for studio work and extended listening sessions. When compared to the entry-level Porta Pro and more premium electrostatic products, it provides improved audio clarity and durability with a modest step up in cost.

QZ99

  • Positioning: A balanced mid-range model designed for everyday versatility.
  • Description: Introduces modern design elements and enhanced comfort to fit both home and travel use with stable sound performance. In comparison to the PRO/4AA and Porta Pro, it emphasizes design refinement and user experience, though it does not offer the advanced technology of the electrostatic series.

ESP950

  • Positioning: A high-end electrostatic system aimed at detailed and precise sound reproduction.
  • Description: Uses electrostatic driver technology to deliver clear, crisp audio with a spacious soundstage suitable for controlled listening environments. Compared to non-electrostatic models like the QZ99 and PRO/4AA, it stands out with higher sonic precision while remaining a step below the flagship model in overall refinement.

ESP95X-plus

  • Positioning: The flagship model featuring premium electrostatic technology and superior build quality.
  • Description: Refines electrostatic design with enhanced tuning and high-quality materials for exceptional clarity and performance. When contrasted with the ESP950 and other lower-tier models, it offers the most advanced features and detailed sound response.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
1
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Brand Popularity
595
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
8
Founding Year
1953

Our take on the brand

Koss invented the world's first stereo headphones in 1958 (the SP/3, now in the Smithsonian), effectively creating personal listening, and has continued pioneering firsts including the first self-energizing electrostatic headphone (ESP/6, 1968) and the first dynamic headphone to reproduce all 10 audible octaves (HV/1A, 1974). The brand offers unusually broad limited lifetime warranty coverage on many models and created the modular Utility Series (2021) with detachable cords that let the same headphones work with future devices through different cable connections.

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?

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Koss

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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.
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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
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
Product image
Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay H95
1250
1250
/
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.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Gorgeous design and fantastic build quality with premium materials, like titanium, aluminum, lambskin leather, and cowhide leather
  • Extremely comfortable and lightweight (around 323-333 grams), with oval-shaped earcups suitable for larger ears for long listening periods
  • Intuitive controls, including a mix of touch and physical controls, like responsive touchpads and tactile dials for precise volume and ANC adjustments
  • Sound quality is well-balanced and versatile, making them suitable for various music genres, with particularly good performance for classical music, podcasts, and rock
  • Amazing noise cancellation performance, effectively blocking out mid- and treble-range noises

Product Considerations

  • Very high retail price
  • Earcups are not very deep
  • Not very portable due to a bulky design
  • A heavier side, which can develop a little bit of strain on the back of the neck
  • The Bang & Olufsen app does not work well, spending a long time trying to connect to the H95 most of the time

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Focal Bathys: The Focal Bathys is cheaper and better in sound quality
  • Vs Bose QC45s: The Bose QC45s are a little bit more effective in cancelling the high end of mid-range frequencies that you would get from a busy cafe
  • Vs AirPods Max: The H95 manages to separate all the layers very beautifully, the AirPods Max is not on par
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins PX8: The PX8 is more muffled
  • Vs Cambridge Audio P100: The P100 has more clarity and crisp sound to that treble without having that sibilance

Takeaway: If you want a luxurious pair of headphones with amazing build quality and very good noise cancellation, the Beoplay H95 could be a good option. The sound quality is great, and they are comfortable to wear for long listening sessions.

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Koss
ESP/95X Plus
799
/
Released
2023
Featuring the unmatched sound quality trademark of the original, the Koss ESP/95X Plus Electrostatic Stereo Headphone System comes in an exclusive midnight blue colorway and features all-new premium velour-wrapped ear cushions designed for optimal listening.
Check Amazon
Koss invented the world's first stereo headphones in 1958 (the SP/3, now in the Smithsonian), effectively creating personal listening, and has continued pioneering firsts including the first self-energizing electrostatic headphone (ESP/6, 1968) and the first dynamic headphone to reproduce all 10 audible octaves (HV/1A, 1974). The brand offers unusually broad limited lifetime warranty coverage on many models and created the modular Utility Series (2021) with detachable cords that let the same headphones work with future devices through different cable connections.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Relatively affordable entry point into electrostatic headphones
  • Clean, non-fatiguing sound, good treble resolution, and fast drivers for great instrument separation
  • Lightweight and comfortable for prolonged listening sessions
  • Comes with its own electrostatic amplifier, making it an all-in-one purchase

Product Considerations

  • Build quality is questionable, feels plasticky, and prone to creaking
  • Lacks impact, weight, and dynamics compared to dynamic headphones
  • Midrange tonality/timbre can be slightly off, with a slightly thin-sounding lower midrange
  • Proprietary connector limits amp rolling options
  • Soundstage can be narrow

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Stax Lambda Series: ESP/95X presents music in a convincing and realistic manner
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600/HD650/HD6XX: ESP/95X has better extension and speed in the bass, but the HD600 series offers more natural sound

Takeaway: The ESP/95X is a good way to try out electrostatic headphones because it comes with everything needed. It is a comfortable and non-fatiguing listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Koss invented the world's first stereo headphones in 1958 (the SP/3, now in the Smithsonian), effectively creating personal listening, and has continued pioneering firsts including the first self-energizing electrostatic headphone (ESP/6, 1968) and the first dynamic headphone to reproduce all 10 audible octaves (HV/1A, 1974). The brand offers unusually broad limited lifetime warranty coverage on many models and created the modular Utility Series (2021) with detachable cords that let the same headphones work with future devices through different cable connections.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Edifier
Stax Spirit S5
569
/
Released
2024
With solid innovation and advanced techniques, STAX SPIRIT S5 incorporates upgraded planar magnetic drivers and the latest Bluetooth technology into a compact and portable form factor. The 2μm thin film and 2nd gen EqualMass™ wiring technology endow the product with a performance comparable to legendary electrostatic headphones.
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Edifier, a hifi audio brand, horn-loaded ribbon tweeters to affordable active monitors through their Airpulse series. The brand achieved the first Hi-Res Audio certified true wireless earbuds with their NeoBuds Pro and in 2010 became China's first publicly listed audio speaker company.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent wireless sound quality with clarity, detail, and balanced, refined sound.
  • Good technical performance, particularly soundstage width.
  • Multiple hifi audio codecs are supported, including LDAC, aptX HD, and aptX Lossless.
  • The Edifier ConneX app provides a customizable EQ.
  • Long battery life is quoted at 80 hours.

Product Considerations

  • Active noise cancellation is lacking.
  • Some reviewers find the fit awkward, with inadequate clamping force.
  • Treble can sound a little metallic or plasticky.
  • The use of animal hide might deter some buyers.
  • The volume on wireless mode isn't always loud enough.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Sony WH-1000XM5 and Sennheiser Momentum 4, the Spirit S5 offers a more audiophile-like presentation with better soundstage and clarity.
  • The Spirit S5 destroys the Sony WH-1000XM5 and the Sennheiser Momentum 4s in terms of sound quality.
  • The S5 sounds better than the Stax Spirit S3, with improvements across the board and new features.

Takeaway: The Stax Spirit S5 is a great-sounding wireless headphone that is comfortable and offers modern convenience. It is an excellent choice for anyone wanting to enjoy music with detail and clarity.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Edifier, a hifi audio brand, horn-loaded ribbon tweeters to affordable active monitors through their Airpulse series. The brand achieved the first Hi-Res Audio certified true wireless earbuds with their NeoBuds Pro and in 2010 became China's first publicly listed audio speaker company.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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

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