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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.

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.

Manufacturer details

  • Model: NS101DHP
  • JAN: 4967736080026
  • Driver: 40mm
  • Impedance: 46Ω
  • Frequency Response: 15-55000Hz
  • Sound Pressure Sensitivity: 100dB
  • Weight: 235g
  • Cable Length: 3M
NS101DHP is a headphone specifically tuned for electronic drum performance with high resolution capability, delivering clear individual sounds. It covers a wide frequency range for high-resolution audio sources without losing detail. Features velour ear pads to reduce ear fatigue during long listening sessions and is a closed-back design with optimal sound isolation to prevent sound leakage.
A headphone specifically tuned for electronic drum performance with high resolution capability, delivering clear articulation of individual sounds. It covers a wide frequency range suitable for hi-res audio sources without losing detail. Features velour ear pads to reduce discomfort during long listening sessions and is a closed-back design with optimal sound isolation to prevent sound leakage.
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:

JT80BK

  • Positioning: Entry-level model designed for affordability and compactness.
  • Description: Uses a simple tube circuit that gives a warm sound ideal for small rooms and casual listening. Compared to the digital stages and dual-mono designs in other models, it offers basic functionality and lower build complexity, suiting buyers with a tight budget and minimal feature requirements.

DJ-03HD

  • Positioning: Entry-level digital disc player focused on high-resolution playback.
  • Description: Features a robust digital-to-analog conversion block that enhances detail for clear audio reproduction in desktop setups. When compared to the tube-based JT80BK and the more refined MP series, it introduces digital processing at a similar price point without the advanced circuitry found in higher-end units.

MP-100

  • Positioning: Mid-range model balancing performance and cost efficiency.
  • Description: Incorporates a refined power regulation system and improved signal path that yield clearer audio details suited for medium-sized rooms. Compared with the JT80BK and DJ-03HD, it brings better build quality and additional interface options.

MP-500

  • Positioning: Premium model designed for high-fidelity audio reproduction.
  • Description: Uses a dual-mono circuit design and advanced filtering to improve dynamic range and sound clarity. In comparison with the MP-100, it offers enhanced technical sophistication and a wider soundstage while still not reaching the advanced digital integration of the flagship model.

C-502MP

  • Positioning: Flagship model providing advanced digital integration and maximum functionality.
  • Description: Features a groundbreaking processing unit with full digital conversion and 8K HDMI support, addressing setups that demand high performance and extensive connectivity. Compared to the more analog JT80BK, the digital DJ-03HD, and the refined MP series, it stands out with cutting-edge features and superior build quality, making it best for users with high budget tolerance and robust functionality needs.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
25
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
268
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
2
Founding Year
1940

Our take on the brand

Nagaoka, originally a watch bearing manufacturer, applies their precision engineering expertise in hard-to-cut materials like diamonds and ceramics to create phono cartridges known for their distinctive "romantic" sound with warm, lush midrange. Their MP-series cartridges use samarium-cobalt magnets and boron cantilevers with superfine polished diamond styli, which are rare features in moving magnet cartridges and help deliver their signature sound that audiophiles appreciate for its musicality.

Look inside the brand

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What if you spend more?

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Bowers & Wilkins
Px8
699
699
/
64
Reviews
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Premium build quality and materials with luxurious Nappa leather detailing and a cast aluminum yoke
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions with soft earcups and a headband that provides even pressure distribution
  • Excellent sound quality with 40mm carbon cone drivers delivering ultra-fast response, low distortion, and a clean, smooth sound signature
  • Effective active noise cancellation (ANC) reduces low-frequency sounds and midrange chatter, with the Nappa leather providing a tighter seal
  • Realistic soundstage scale with tight, well-defined imaging, with the sound feeling more live and in front of the listener

Product Considerations

  • Multipoint pairing is not always seamless, and there might be occasional wind noise from the earcup due to software glitches, with wear detection being inconsistent and inaccurate
  • Limited app customization with only bass and treble adjustments, lacking a fully customizable EQ
  • Microphone pickup is good in quiet environments, but can be affected by heavy noise gating in noisy conditions, causing voice fade-in/out
  • Some emphasis on bass response, which may not appeal to everyone
  • There is concern about the Nappa leather being easily scratched

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the PX7 S2, the PX8 offers better sound quality with greater instrument separation and realism due to the carbon fiber drivers, and also features more premium materials
  • While the PX8 active noise cancelling does well, Sony still has better mic pickup
  • The PX8 provides a good alternative to the Airpods Max
  • The PX8 stacks up among some of the best wireless headphones along with the Focal Bathys

Takeaway: The Px8 is a premium wireless headphone with outstanding build quality and sound performance, which is perfect for audiophiles seeking a luxurious listening experience. It combines comfort, effective noise cancellation, and detailed audio reproduction, making it a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing sound quality and high-end materials.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Mark Levinson
№ 5909
999
999
/
36
Reviews

Lose yourself in your music with the first-ever headphones from Mark Levinson, a pioneer in high-fidelity audio for the past 50 years. Reference-quality sound meets luxurious comfort in a lightweight and durable set of headphones featuring Adaptive Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) that’s perfect for travel. Reveal the hidden details in your music – at home, on the go, or anywhere you find a moment to listen.

Well-known in hifi for decades, Mark Levinson produces high-end solid-state amplifiers that rank among the best. They pioneered high-end audio with their LNP-2 preamplifier, proving that solid-state circuits could outperform tube electronics, and their ML-2 monaural power amplifier became a reference standard for its unparalleled sound quality.
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Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality with a balanced and refined signature, detailed mids, and smooth treble
  • Effective active noise cancellation (ANC) and ambient aware mode
  • Premium build quality with high-quality materials such as leather, anodized aluminum, and metallic paint
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions due to soft leather ear cushions and a well-designed headband
  • Comprehensive codec support (LDAC, aptX Adaptive, AAC) for high-resolution wireless audio

Product Considerations

  • High price point, making them inaccessible for many consumers
  • App is lacking in some features, such as fully customizable EQ and customizable ANC modes
  • On-cup controls are described as basic and not very intuitive to use
  • Some reviewers feel the design does not fully convey a sense of luxury for the price
  • Occasional reports of issues with the 'on-head detection' feature—causing connection problems

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Focal Bathys: The Mark Levinson 5909 offers a cleaner and more natural tonality with a smoother, more consistent, and detailed treble response than the Focal Bathys
  • Vs Apple AirPods Max: The Mark Levinson 5909 offers better sound quality, particularly in the bass frequencies, and is more comfortable than the AirPods Max
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins PX8: The Mark Levinson 5909 measures better in audio quality

Takeaway: The Mark Levinson № 5909 headphones offer excellent sound, comfort, and noise cancellation, making them a top-tier choice for those seeking a premium listening experience. With their high-end sound quality and comprehensive feature set, these headphones are a great option for audiophiles wanting the best wireless experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Well-known in hifi for decades, Mark Levinson produces high-end solid-state amplifiers that rank among the best. They pioneered high-end audio with their LNP-2 preamplifier, proving that solid-state circuits could outperform tube electronics, and their ML-2 monaural power amplifier became a reference standard for its unparalleled sound quality.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Thieaudio
Monarch MKIII
999
999
/
13
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

  • Offers excellent midrange resolution, highlighting subtle details in instruments
  • Features a safe yet exciting U-shaped tuning suitable for all genres
  • Presents a dynamic and exciting sound signature, clear vocal performances, and a resolving staging performance
  • The included cable is of high quality and features interchangeable plugs
  • Has great audio reproduction accuracy and consistent audio delivery

Product Considerations

  • The upper treble may be a little exaggerated for some listeners
  • The shell is larger than average for a universal IEM, which may cause fit issues for some
  • Stock ear tips are just okay
  • Bass resolution could be better
  • Does not have an integrated microphone, so a standalone mic is needed to take calls

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Monarch MKII: The MKIII has increased richness in its midrange and an upper treble exaggeration, offering a slightly U-shaped signature compared to the MkII's balanced profile
  • Vs. Symphonium Helios: MkIII's midbass body contrasts Helios' dipped lower mids, MkIII has better overall resolution, but a more exaggerated treble
  • Vs. 64 Audio U4s: The MkIII is better tuned compared to the U4s, with the U4s having a thicker midrange and weightier timbre
  • Vs. MOONDROP x Crinacle DUSK: The THIEAUDIO have a more detailed treble range
  • Vs. MOONDROP Blessing 3: The THIEAUDIO have a more elevated bass range
  • Vs. TRUTHEAR x Crinacle ZERO: RED: The THIEAUDIO do a better job blocking out external noise and leak less audio

Takeaway: The Monarch MKIII is a well-tuned IEM that is great for all kinds of music and has excellent technical performance. If one is looking for a high-end IEM with a versatile sound, this could be a great choice.

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
Product image
Focal
Hadenys
754
754
/
13
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Beautiful design and build quality with premium materials, like a magnesium yoke and genuine leather headband
  • Good comfort with memory foam earpads and breathable cloth, though some find the pads shallow
  • Well-rounded tonal balance with surprisingly strong bass for an open-back headphone
  • Easy to drive and forgiving with different audio sources
  • Clear and spacious sound presentation, with accurate imaging

Product Considerations

  • The price point may be higher than some consumers want to pay
  • The relatively small size might not fit all head shapes comfortably
  • Stock cable is reported to have memory and be unwieldy
  • Sound staging isn't the widest

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Focal Azurys: Some prefer the sound of the Azurys for some songs and use cases
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600: Hadenys has improvements in the bass and treble response, and there's more oomph and weight in the bass
  • Vs Focal Clear MG: Hadenys manages to provide a remarkable amount of Clear MG for a lower price
  • Vs Focal Elex: dynamics are not on par with the Focal Elex
  • Vs Sennheiser HD 660S2: The Focal manages to feel as solid, while looking better, wearing better and sounding better

Takeaway: The Hadenys offers a stylish design, comfortable fit, and well-rounded sound, making it a versatile headphone for enjoying music at home. Its solid construction and easy-to-drive nature make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a premium listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Bowers & Wilkins
Px7 S2
399
/
Released
2022
Px7 S2's custom-designed 40mm drive units and 24-bit-capable wireless platform combine for a truly immersive listening experience that allows you to hear more of what the artist wants you to hear.
Check Amazon
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • High-end design with premium materials (cloth and aluminum construction, aluminum accent rings, soft faux leather, stitch-free Nappa leather) gives a luxury vehicle feel and understated style
  • Comfortable for longer periods thanks to the redesigned form and shape, upgraded pressure-relieving memory foam, oblong earcups for better pressure distribution, and ample room inside the earcups
  • Superior sound quality is due to the revised custom 40mm Bowers & Wilkins driver with lower distortion biocellulose diaphragm and 20mm voice coil, carefully positioned and angled inside the earcups
  • Integration with the Bowers & Wilkins Music app allows customization of noise canceling levels, ambient pass-through, and EQ tone control
  • Improved clarity of voice on phone calls is due to the redesigned microphone pattern
  • USB-C socket is the sole input option, though adapters are included

Product Considerations

  • Some users may find the wear detection feature too sensitive
  • The app offers fewer features than some other headphone apps
  • The included cables are somewhat short

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the previous PX7, the S2 has a completely different design, is smaller and easier to carry, and has significant technical improvements
  • The PX7 S2 offers a more balanced sound than mainstream offerings by Sony or Bose, which tend to exaggerate mid-bass
  • The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 stood out with a more distinguished appearance, a next-level build with nicer tactility, and sound quality is a toss-up—dependent on listening preference

Takeaway: The Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2 headphones offer a great listening experience with excellent sound quality, beautiful design, and a comfortable fit. They are a solid choice for anyone who wants an upgrade over basic headphones and cares about both style and sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Bowers & Wilkins
Pi7 S2
259
/
Released
2023
What does it take to create category-defining True Wireless earbuds? High-resolution sound and crystal-clear voice calls, an industry-first wireless audio retransmission case, plus a choice of three elegant colors.
Check Amazon
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality with clarity and detail
  • The charging case doubles as a wireless transmitter, connecting to non-Bluetooth devices via USB or 3.5mm jack
  • Improved Bluetooth connectivity and an extended range of up to 25 meters compared to the original PI7
  • Premium design and comfortable to wear for longer durations
  • Excellent bass response

Product Considerations

  • The B&W app lacks EQ customization options
  • Transparency mode has noticeable hiss and is not easily accessible via the earbuds, requiring the app to activate
  • Noise cancellation is good, but not class-leading compared to some competitors
  • Some reviewers find them bulky and not very comfortable for prolonged use
  • No multi-point pairing

Takeaway: The Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 is a great choice for those who prioritize exceptional sound quality and appreciate the unique wireless transmitter feature. It provides an immersive and detailed listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Bowers & Wilkins
Px7 S2e
399
/
Released
2023
Px7 S2e is the latest iteration of our highly successful entry-level wireless headphones. The 'e' stands for 'evolved', as the Px7 S2e takes inspiration and learnings from our flagship Px8 wireless headphones, together with a re-tuned acoustic performance, to deliver the very best sound in its class.
Check Amazon
Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Superior sound separation compared to older models, noticeable even to non-audiophiles
  • The mobile app enhances usability by allowing users to adjust bass, treble, and noise reduction levels
  • Comfortable fit with ample cushioning and a design that's comfortable to wear around the neck
  • Premium build quality with attention to detail in design, materials, and hinge smoothness
  • The sound is balanced, with distinct highs and bass that booms without overpowering the mix

Product Considerations

  • Noise cancellation does not quite match up to Sony, with a small gap forming depending on head position
  • Volume up and down buttons take time getting used to, with accidental pausing occurring
  • The touch-sensitive earcup feature for pass-through audio from Sony is missed
  • Lacks an adapter for airplane screens
  • Some reviewers found the earcup size a bit awkward

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sony WH-1000XM3: Px7 S2e offers superior sound separation
  • Vs Apple AirPods Max: PX7 S2e is closer to the sound quality of the AirPods Max than the Beats Studio Pro, but the AirPods Max is heavier and less comfortable for long-term use
  • Vs Sony WH-1000XM5: Px7 S2e has better sound quality, though the Sony has better ANC
  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins Px8: Px7 S2e is very close in sound quality for a much better price
  • Vs Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: Px7 S2e has better midrange magic for music
  • Vs Bose Quiet Comfort Ultra: Px7 S2e balances ANC and music playback better

Takeaway: The Px7 S2e headphones are a premium product that balances sound quality, comfort, and build. Great sound and a luxurious feel could make these headphones a perfect fit.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bowers & Wilkins pioneered the use of Kevlar fibers in speaker cones and developed the Matrix cabinet design, which significantly reduces cabinet resonance and sound coloration. Their Nautilus speaker, introduced in 1993, features the distinctive Nautilus tube tweeter design that minimizes sound resonance, while their dedicated Steyning Research facility has produced breakthroughs like the Continuum cone for improved audio transparency.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Cambridge Audio
Melomania P100
233
/
Released
2024
Crafted in London by Hi-Fi engineers, P100 delivers immersive, high-fidelity musical audio with Class A/B amplification from 40mm drivers. With adaptive hybrid ANC and up to 100 hours of user-replaceable battery life, it's designed for boundless listening.
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Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Outstanding battery life—offering up to 60 hours with ANC on and 100 hours with ANC off
  • Clean, open, reasonably detailed, energetic, informative, and convincing sound quality, with a balanced and neutral tonality
  • Classy design, with a pleasing, sturdy build with robust metal elements, and comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Features a user-replaceable battery and earpads, promoting longevity

Product Considerations

  • Active noise cancellation (ANC) isn't class-leading and can be bettered, and can have small glitches during use
  • Noise-canceling can produce a faint static sound when no audio is playing, and a popping noise with movement
  • Some reviews mention limited range in the EQ settings within the Melomania Connect app
  • Some reviews mention occasional software bugs and connectivity issues with devices
  • Do not fold away, and come with a travel case that may be too large for some users

Takeaway: The Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 headphones are a solid choice for anyone wanting great sound and very long battery life at a good price. They have a nice design and are built to last, making them a good value overall.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Cambridge Audio pioneered the use of toroidal transformers in power amplifiers, a technology now widely adopted by high-end audio companies. The brand stands out for using premium amplification technology across their product range, from Class A/B amplifiers in their wireless earbuds to Hypex Ncore modules in their EVO series, while maintaining accessible price points between their CX and Edge product lines.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Truthear
Nova
169
/
Released
2023
NOVA is a 1DD+4BA in-ear headphone with 3-way crossover composite structure. Compared with HEXA, the original design intention is to further improve the high-frequency performance while maintaining a reasonable and efficient configuration, and also strive to bring users a mature earphone with a hybrid 3-way crossover structure at a reasonable price.
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Truthear is a brand that has continued to design products not just in response to but in collaboration with the audio community and influential figures such as Headphones.com's 'Listener' and The Hangout's 'Crinacle'. Delivering products that achieve excellent adherence to preferred targets at extremely accessible prices.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Sound signature is likely to be palatable for a wide range of people at its price point.
  • Good emphasis in the upper midrange, decent timbre, good resolution, the upper midrange is upfront with the vocals, nice details, and it works well with a smooth treble.
  • Very smooth treble and the absence of sibilance.
  • Good dynamic bass that's nicely textured and has a decent rumble.
  • Imaging is accurate.

Product Considerations

  • The Truth Ear Nova does not sound better or more balanced than the Hexa, since the reviewer prefers a more balanced sound signature.
  • Nova is not a thick-sounding IEM, it's quite thin.
  • The midrange is chiefly defined by a cavernous suckout in the low-midrange.
  • Soundstage is a little narrower than preferred.
  • Shell size may be slightly large for smaller ears.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Moondrop Variations: Nova is significantly cheaper and close enough in performance that one should save money and go for Nova.
  • Vs. Truthear Hexa: Nova easily has a smoother treble presentation, has more dynamic bass, and is more ergonomic, but Hexa has one of the best midranges in this price tier.
  • Vs. Truthear Zero: RED: Zero: RED beats Nova almost across the board in tuning and simply sounds more normal.

Takeaway: The Truth Ear Nova is commendable for achieving its tuning at its price point, especially for those looking for a V-shaped presentation or Harman-esque kind of sound signature. If the Harman IE target is to one's liking, Nova is probably as safe a choice as any of the other Harman options out there.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Truthear is a brand that has continued to design products not just in response to but in collaboration with the audio community and influential figures such as Headphones.com's 'Listener' and The Hangout's 'Crinacle'. Delivering products that achieve excellent adherence to preferred targets at extremely accessible prices.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Product Page

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