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

  • Comfort is spectacular, enhanced by a suspension strap and ZMF lambskin pads that evenly distribute weight
  • Soundstage is described as very wide, large, and impressive, especially for a closed-back headphone, offering a great listening experience
  • Bass is present, punchy, and well-defined without being overwhelming, offering an engaging and fun sound signature, often described as 'warm'
  • Mids are good, with natural vocals and an overall pleasant tonality that draws the listener into the music
  • Fun sound signature that works for personal listening

Product Considerations

  • Requires a lot of power to drive, recommending a dedicated amplifier for optimal performance
  • Treble might be a bit forward or have peaks for some listeners, potentially requiring EQ adjustment
  • Detail retrieval is not as strong as other headphones in its price range, so sound can get a bit lost when there's a lot going on in a song
  • Stock build quality is decent, but not exceptional, due to being based on a T50RP mod
  • Isolation isn't great for a closed-back headphone, potentially bothering others in quiet environments

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • It has significantly more sound stage than Sennheiser's 600s and 650s

Takeaway: The Argon Mk3 is a fun, comfortable headphone that brings a wide soundstage and punchy bass to music. It's a great choice for anyone looking for a uniquely enjoyable listening experience.

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

Argon Mk3

reviews

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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Impedance: 50 ohms
  • Power Recommendation: 1W or more at 50 ohms
Our new Argon Mk3 are an evolution of the original's sound. We have developed a driver modification that brings the best qualities of the Mk2 driver to the Mk3 platform. The Mk3 baffle has also been modified to allow for greater flexibility in tuning preference based on pads and how you mount them. The stock baffle foam has been replaced by a combination of felt and foam that blocks the Mk3 baffle vents about 95%.
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:

T50RP MK3  

  • Positioning: The entry-level Fostex stock headphone conversion designed for affordability and practical use in smaller rooms or portable settings.  
  • Description: Features a refined RP diaphragm driver that uses copper-foil etched polyimide film for clear and semi-open sound, making it a simple yet effective choice for users on a tight budget compared to the more advanced conversion models. In contrast to the higher-priced Argon and Tungsten lines, it provides basic functionality with detachable cables suited for everyday listening without extensive amplifier demands.

Argon MK3  

  • Positioning: A mid-range conversion option offering balanced sound and enhanced tuning flexibility for users seeking improved performance from discontinued Fostex Mk3 units.  
  • Description: Incorporates a modified driver and reworked baffle that provide a balanced sound with tastefully elevated bass and the option for a custom balanced cable, setting it apart from the simpler T50RP models.

Fostex Stock Headphones T60RP  

  • Positioning: A budget-conscious Fostex stock headphone upgrade aimed at delivering improved transient characteristics and wider frequency reproduction.  
  • Description: Uses an RP diaphragm with copper foil etching and a distinctive wooden African mahogany housing to enhance sound depth and clarity, offering both unbalanced and balanced connection options. Relative to the conversion models like the Argon MK3 and T60RP Argon, it gives a straightforward, natural presentation without the extra tuning flexibility.

T60RP – Argon  

  • Positioning: A conversion variant that refines the Fostex T60RP design with subtle tuning adjustments for a more neutral sound profile.  
  • Description: Delivers a slightly reduced bass emphasis with enhanced upper mids and treble through modified cups and pad options, enabling a more neutral sound compared to the V-shaped tuning of the T50RP models.

Tungsten  

  • Positioning: A high-end, flagship headphone built from a custom planar driver design and years of research for enthusiasts with premium sonic and build quality demands.  
  • Description: Uses innovative dual-sided drivers with custom thin 24k gold magnets and acoustic pad technologies that elevate performance for both tube and solid-state amplifier setups, offering a much broader soundstage and uniformity than any stock models.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
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0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
775
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
5
Founding Year
2018

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.

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What if you spend more?

Product image
Edifier
Stax Spirit S5
569
569
/
11
Reviews
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.
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Expand Details

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
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.
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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
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.
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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
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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
FT1
164
/
Released
2024
The FiiO FT1 offers North American walnut / beech wood ear shells with natural solid wood construction, effectively reducing cavity resonance and minimizing standing waves. Each wooden ear shell features unique grain patterns.
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

  • Shockingly good for the money, a very well-tuned headphone for the price category
  • Good bass response that is fun, with lots of thumpiness and impact in the lower sub-bass regions, while maintaining a clean mid-bass region
  • Trouble response is fairly target-adherent with a chill character and not overly fatiguing
  • Comes with a banger accessories package providing two cables, a carry case, more than a lot of companies are coming out with
  • Delivers impressive sound quality across the board, backed by excellent build quality and a generous set of accessories

Product Considerations

  • The actual earpad area for the ear is not super great, and it will be felt a little bit on the ear, might be more on-ear than fully over-ear if you have really large ears
  • Sound staging is one area that could improve the most, because there is almost none, can sound almost claustrophobic, because everything is happening right here all the time
  • Mid-range is not all that exciting to listen to, vocals can be shouty or honk-type sound to certain vocalists
  • Build quality feels good for $150, but it would not pass the sniff test for $500, definitely feels like it's a budget device

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The AKG K361 has advantages over the FiiO FT1, like sound staging
  • The FT1’s level of midrange fidelity is impressive, rivaling the best mid-fi headphones such as the Sennheiser HD6XX and the Sundara
  • It outshines most closed-back classics, including the Sony MDR-7506, AKG K361, and beyerdynamic DT700 Pro X
  • The smaller FiiO FT1 was enjoyed even more than the FiiO FT5, since it strikes the right balance between fun, warmth, and technicality, handling tough tracks with much more ease than anticipated

Takeaway: The FiiO FT1 is a surprisingly good closed-back headphone for the money and offers a well-tuned sound signature with good bass response. This headphone is priced at $150 and is surprisingly nice with some great terminations.

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.
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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
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.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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SIVGA
Anser
199
/
Released
2024
High-quality wooden HiFi dynamic driver headphones with open-back design. Features self-developed 50mm dynamic drivers delivering full bass, wide soundstage, and clean natural sound.
Check Amazon
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

  • The Anser is wonderfully comfortable.
  • Exceptional build quality, with premium materials rarely seen at this price point.
  • It delivers a sound that's well-balanced across all frequencies.
  • The Anser is easy to drive from absolutely anything.
  • It has a nice sense of weight and presence in its sound, particularly in vocals and solo instrumentals.

Product Considerations

  • The soundstage is somewhat restricted in width.
  • The midrange is not great.
  • The stock cable is a little stiff.
  • Treble enthusiasts may occasionally find the presentation less energetic.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser HD 560s: The Anser is significantly more comfortable and feels better built than the HD 560s, but the HD 560s is a little brighter and sharper in the treble.
  • Vs Drop and Sennheiser HD 6XX: The Anser would win for most people on build quality and possibly comfort too, and is going to win for bass because extends down deep, and it's solid and full.
  • Vs Philips Fidelio X2HR: The X2HR has a wider, more open soundstage, and a little more nuance in the midrange.
  • Vs Sivga Oriole: The Anser has slight advantages, such as soundstage, which is still limited but nevertheless better than the Oriole.
  • Vs FiiO FT1 Pro: The Anser has a slightly warmer sound signature, with a more pronounced bass response.

Takeaway: The Sivga Anser offers great build quality and is very comfortable, making it a great choice for people who want a fun and engaging listening experience. This is a headphone that prioritizes musicality over technical prowess, offering an inviting sound.

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
SIVGA
Luan
299
/
Released
2023
The Luan is a high-fidelity wired headphone featuring wooden ear cups and dynamic drivers. It delivers high-resolution sound with deep bass, soft and full midrange, clear detail separation, and refined, non-fatiguing treble.
Check Amazon
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

  • Excellent build quality, using premium materials like metal headbands and yokes, wood cups, and soft leather or velvet for comfort
  • Comfortable, with plush ear pads and a lightweight design, making it suitable for long listening sessions
  • Easy to drive and scales well with better gear
  • The sound signature has a good balance of detail, musicality, and accurate tonality, making it a versatile option
  • Clarity and separation of instruments with a good soundstage and decent imaging

Product Considerations

  • The included cable is of lesser quality compared to the build, noting its stiffness and memory effect
  • The bass response may not satisfy bassheads as it rolls off slightly in the sub-bass region
  • The treble and upper mids can be a bit forward or 'shouty', potentially causing listening fatigue for treble-sensitive individuals
  • The symmetrical design can make it difficult to quickly discern the left and right sides
  • The included case is not aesthetically pleasing to all reviewers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser HD 600: The Luan has better bass and a larger soundstage, but the HD 600 is slightly better in tone and timbre
  • Vs Sivga Robin: The Luan has a different sound and build quality than the Robin, which is more aggressive
  • Vs beyerdynamic DT900 Pro X: The mids have better details on the DT900 Pro X

Takeaway: The Sivga Luan is a well-built and comfortable headphone with a balanced sound, making it a great choice for extended listening and versatile across different sources. It is a stylish, easy-to-drive headphone with enough punch and clarity to appeal to a wide range of listeners.

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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