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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: NS101GHP
  • JAN: 4967736079839
  • Driver: 40mm
  • Impedance: 46Ω
  • Frequency Response: 15-55000Hz
  • Sound Pressure Sensitivity: 100dB
  • Weight: 235g
  • Cable Length: 2.7m
  • Accessories: 3.5mm-6.3mm conversion adapter, cord organizing clip, warranty card
  • Release Date: December 26, 2017
  • Reference Price: ¥3,980 (excluding tax)
The NS101GHP is tuned for high-resolution guitar playing, delivering clear individual notes. Supporting hi-res audio sources across a wide frequency range, it reproduces fine sound details without loss. It 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.
The NS101GHP is tuned specifically for guitar playing with high resolution capability, delivering each note with clarity. Supporting hi-res audio sources across a wide frequency range, it reproduces fine details without loss. It 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.
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.

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What if you spend more?

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Dali
Dali IO-8
900
900
/
13
Reviews

Premium DALI IO-8 wireless Hi-Fi headphones with custom DALI driver technology bring you genuine Hi-Fi performance, while advanced audiophile active noise cancellation technology lets you enjoy the same genuine sound, wherever your are.True Hi-Fi PerformanceDALI IO-8 headphones are designed and engineered using the same sound principles as our full-size loudspeakers – they're true Hi-Fi speakers for your head.Audiophile Active Noise CancellationSilence the outside world with unique active noise cancellation technology tuned carefully by DALI to strip away the distractions without impairing the sound.35-Hour Battery LifeEnjoy up to 35 hours of peerless noise-cancelling playback.Dual Sound ModesTailor the performance to your own style with 'Hi-Fi' and 'Bass' sound modes.

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Positive, detailed, and convincing sound makes music enjoyable, rather than academic
  • Exceptional build quality with premium materials, including brushed metal and tactile fabric, gives them an understatedly good look and feel
  • Can function as hard-wired passive headphones without battery power, offering flexibility and continuous use
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC) effectively reduces external noise without significantly impacting the sonic characteristics of the headphones
  • Balanced frequency response with smooth transitions and ample detail throughout the range

Product Considerations

  • The lack of a control app limits user customization options
  • The use of real leather in the earpads may not appeal to vegan customers
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC) is decent, but not class-leading compared to brands like Bose
  • The midrange can be a bit too relaxed for some users

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Bowers & Wilkins PX8, the Dali IO-8 offers distinct sound
  • Compared to Sennheiser Momentum 4, the Dali IO-8 is heavier
  • Compared to Focal Bathys, the Dali IO-8 is lighter

Takeaway: The Dali IO-8 is a premium headphone that delivers high-quality sound with a focus on musicality and build quality. It's a great choice for listeners who value a balanced sound signature, comfortable design, and the flexibility of wired and wireless use.

Video review

Our take on the brand

DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Focal
Bathys
699
699
/
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

  • Excellent sound quality delivers a rich, full, detailed, and clear experience, rivaling higher-end wired headphones
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions due to soft earpads and good weight distribution
  • High-quality build with premium materials like magnesium yokes, aluminum band, and leather padding
  • Effective noise canceling is comparable to leading brands like Bose and Sony, and offers a transparency mode
  • Versatile connectivity with Bluetooth (aptX Adaptive), USB-DAC mode (up to 24/192), and analog 3.5mm

Product Considerations

  • Active noise canceling (ANC) isn't the absolute best on the market
  • Stock cables are considered basic and somewhat short
  • The app, while offering EQ and other adjustments, can be clunky and difficult to connect initially, and some users have reported firmware update issues
  • The headphones always need battery power to function, even when using a wired connection
  • Some reviewers found the bass a little too elevated in the lower mids

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Bathys has a more natural fit, a better mic, more connectivity options, and a companion app that allows for better sound adjustments, while the AirPods Max excels in noise canceling
  • The Bathys has more consistent audio delivery, a more robust EQ, and better overall noise isolation, while the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 is more comfortable and better built
  • The Bathys has similar noise isolation performance and similar USB-C and analog capabilities, but the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless has a more accurate treble response and better battery life
  • The Bathys has better sound, is more comfortable, and is better built than the Sony WH-1000XM5, while the XM5 has better battery and better noise isolation
  • The Focal Celestee is better built, more comfortable, and wired, while the Bathys has a USB-DAC mode for higher-quality audio and a companion app to adjust it

Takeaway: The Focal Bathys are a solid pick for wireless headphones that sound great and feel luxurious. Excellent sound quality with convenient features like active noise canceling make them perfect for enjoying music on the go.

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
Product image
Dan Clark Audio
Noire X
999
999
/
13
Reviews
Dan Clark Audio sets itself apart with its patented Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System, which uses waveguides and resonators to shape frequency response to uniquely close adherence to various targets, and a unique tensioning system that ensures consistent performance across their headphone units. Their summit-tier headphones feature an uncommon folding design for portability, and their self-adjusting headbands offer extended comfort during long listening sessions.
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Product Strengths

  • Excellent, well-balanced tuning, especially for a closed-back headphone
  • Good bass response, being tight, punchy, and hard-hitting with quality and fidelity, but not overly bassy
  • Comfortable to wear, using the self-adjusting headband and comfortable pads from the E3 model
  • Shares a lot of similarities with the E3, but at a lower price point
  • Good soundstaging, with decent width and depth for a closed-back headphone

Product Considerations

  • The Piano Gloss Black finish is prone to fingerprints, smudges, and scratches, making it difficult to keep clean
  • Soundstage could be wider compared to some competitors
  • Detail retrieval is good but not a standout feature and may not be at the level expected for the price, particularly when compared to higher-end headphones
  • Highs can be a little spicy, and the treble can be a bit more exciting, but less refined than E3
  • Pads are glued on, which may make pad replacement more difficult, while being an upside for better seal to the baffle

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs. Dan Clark Audio E3: Is 90% of the headphone that the E3 is at half the cost
  • Vs. Sennheiser HD6XX: The low-end is miles better, mids are almost equally delicious, but the highs are where the HD6XX seems a tad cleaner
  • Vs. ZMF Auteur Classic: The Dan Clark Audio Noire X is the more technical and more neutral ride

Takeaway: The Noire X is a comfortable, well-tuned, and versatile closed-back headphone that is a great choice for those wanting a smooth and enjoyable listening experience. It offers a lot of value and is a strong contender in its price range.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Dan Clark Audio sets itself apart with its patented Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System, which uses waveguides and resonators to shape frequency response to uniquely close adherence to various targets, and a unique tensioning system that ensures consistent performance across their headphone units. Their summit-tier headphones feature an uncommon folding design for portability, and their self-adjusting headbands offer extended comfort during long listening sessions.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Softears
RSV Reference
729
729
/
10
Reviews
Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent fit and comfortable for many users, even for extended listening periods
  • Very well-balanced and tuned sound signature, often described as a warm, mature, or safe Harman-ish tuning
  • Smooth treble presentation, avoiding sibilance, sharpness, or fatigue, while still retaining detail
  • Good bass performance for an all-balanced armature set, with nice punch and attack, though primarily focused on sub-bass
  • Very good natural tonality and timbre, avoiding a metallic or unnatural sound often associated with balanced armatures

Product Considerations

  • Soundstage and imaging could be better for the price, described as average and not particularly wide or holographic
  • May lack a 'hook' or standout factor in its sound quality, some find it to be a more laid-back and less engaging sound
  • The shells are quite big, which may be problematic for users with small ears
  • The recessed 2-pin sockets could be designed better with a deeper fit
  • May sound 'boring' at mid-to-low volumes, according to one reviewer

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Moondrop S8: RSV offers a warmer and fuller sound with a more even midrange, while the S8 is leaner and more forward, with the S8 being more engaging overall
  • Vs Dunu SA6: RSV has better bass quality, while the SA6 has a slightly more pronounced treble

Takeaway: The Soft Ears RSV is a comfortable and well-tuned IEM that delivers a balanced and enjoyable listening experience. It is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a smooth, natural sound with excellent vocal reproduction.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
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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.
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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

  • 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
beyerdynamic
Aventho 300
399
/
Released
2024
Did you ever want to hear what your favourite artists heard while producing their music – no matter where you are? With the AVENTHO 300 headphones, you can. These wireless over-ear headphones use the same German-made drivers that provide the excellent sound quality found in our studio headphones. Thanks to Dolby Atmos with Dolby Head Tracking™ technology and the latest codecs, you can experience unparalleled 3D sound. Powerful ANC eliminates distracting background noise, while high-quality materials and superb comfort round out these top-tier headphones.
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Beyerdynamic is known for their Tesla driver technology, producing designs which are easy to drive with various sources and are commonplace in professional environments. The brand caters to both professional users and home listeners, with products ranging from analytical studio headphones to gaming headsets designed for precise sound localization.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Polished, almost studio-like audio quality with big bass
  • Has multipoint connectivity and lossless codecs
  • Very long battery life, up to 50 hours with ANC on
  • Exciting listen along with on-the-go features

Product Considerations

  • Ear pads are hard to remove
  • Touchpad for controls is a bit finicky and has inconsistent sensitivity
  • Clamping force is a bit strong, so stretching may be needed
  • The high end is also a little hyped, adding to the clarity
  • Although the bass bloats into the lower-mids, the rest of the midrange is nicely tuned

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2e: The Aventho 300 brings studio sensibilities to its soundstage, while the Px7 aims for accurate linearity
  • Vs Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X headphones: Using the same drivers as the company's studio-oriented DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X, the sound quality will make one feel like they have taken a blanket off their music, especially when upgrading from a cheaper model
  • Vs Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless: They are only beaten by the Sennheiser Momentum 4 and the Marshall Monitor III

Takeaway: The Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 sound polished and are meant for the studio, but they still have a large bass response. For those seeking something different without sacrificing quality, these headphones offer a compelling combination of sound quality and features.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Beyerdynamic is known for their Tesla driver technology, producing designs which are easy to drive with various sources and are commonplace in professional environments. The brand caters to both professional users and home listeners, with products ranging from analytical studio headphones to gaming headsets designed for precise sound localization.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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Thieaudio
Legacy 2
99
/
Released
2021
The Legacy series capitalizes on Thieaudio’s engineering capabilities to merge the latest driver innovations, creating a lineup of the ultimate high-performance hybrid in-ear monitors. Geared towards the discerning audiophile and music enthusiast, the Legacy series re-imagines the qualities that make up high-fidelity audio to present a unique combination of enjoyable tuning that also excels in technical performance. With each model of our Legacy Series, we hope to reveal a refreshing new perspective on your daily listening experience, immersing you deeper into the music. The Legacy 2 features a proprietary closed-back 10 mm Beryllium dynamic driver and a Knowles ED29689 balanced armature driver, aiming for powerful sub-bass, neutral mids, accurate mid-treble transition, and resolving treble, for both stage and audiophile use.
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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

  • Comfortable fit, especially for longer listening sessions.
  • Visually appealing and unique design.
  • Good accessory set for the price, including a useful carrying case.
  • Fairly balanced and smooth sound signature, non-fatiguing to listen to.
  • Good noise isolation

Product Considerations

  • Mids can sound veiled or muddy, lacking clarity and detail.
  • Bass impact can be soft and lacking definition, sometimes sounding "one-noted".
  • Treble lacks airiness and sparkle, with limited extension.
  • Technical performance is average compared to competitors in the same price range.
  • Some reviewers note BA timbre, affecting the naturalness of instruments and vocals.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Moondrop Aria is considered more complete sounding and vivid.
  • The SeeAudio Yume perfects the Thieaudio Legacy 2’s tuning with a cleaner midbass, more upper mids clarity, and a more realistic treble experience.
  • The Thieaudio Legacy 3 outperforms the Legacy 2, doing everything better.
  • The TRI Starsea has better soundstage, clarity, and microdetails

Takeaway: The Thieaudio Legacy 2 offers a smooth listening experience and a comfortable design at an affordable price. It could be a good choice for those who want something nice looking and easy to listen to, especially for acoustic music.

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
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Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay EX
399
/
Released
2022
As versatile as they are beautiful, these wireless earbuds with active noise cancellation bring deep sound and snug comfort in one sleek package.
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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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Premium design and build quality, using materials like aluminum and glass for a luxurious feel
  • Sound quality is generally praised as excellent, detailed, and balanced, especially after equalization
  • Comfortable and secure fit, particularly for those with smaller ear canals
  • App provides an intuitive EQ interface with customizable presets

Product Considerations

  • Active noise cancellation (ANC), while solid, is not considered the best on the market compared to brands like Sony or Bose
  • Some reviewers experienced connectivity issues, including problems with multipoint pairing and occasional signal dropouts
  • Battery life is respectable but not outstanding, with some reviewers noting shorter-than-advertised playback times
  • Responsiveness of the touch controls is sometimes too sensitive, leading to accidental pausing or track skipping
  • Some users have found the default sound profile (Optimal) to be somewhat flat or boring, requiring EQ adjustments

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to the Apple AirPods Pro, the EX has more clarity, better soundstage and separation, but tonal balance may be preferable on the Airpods Pro
  • Compared to the Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3, the Beoplay EX offers a more balanced and detailed presentation with a more luxurious build
  • Compared to the Devialet Gemini II, the Gemini II offers a more neutral sound signature with advanced ANC capabilities, but Beoplay EX offers a more balanced and detailed presentation with a more luxurious build

Takeaway: The Beoplay EX offers a luxurious experience with refined sound and a stylish design. It's a good choice for those who prioritize sound quality and aesthetics, and value a premium feel.

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
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HIFIMAN
Svanar Wireless
499
/
Released
2023
SVANAR Wireless — Ultimate Personal Audio in True Wireless Form.
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HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent sound quality, potentially challenging cabled IEMs, with a dynamic and holographic rendering and beautiful mids and airy treble.
  • Effective ANC, making it suitable for reducing ambient noise, even in noisy environments, with up to 35dB of noise attenuation.
  • Good build quality, with the IEMs made of lightweight metal and Kevlar, and a sturdy charging case.
  • Good bass performance, with texture and extension, punchy, without overpowering, and a powerful but tight impact.
  • Wide soundstage, creating a spacious and immersive listening experience.

Product Considerations

  • Connectivity issues with LDAC, especially outdoors or in areas with interference, leading to intermittent signal drops.
  • Transparency mode might generate turbulence in windy conditions due to microphone placement.
  • Limited codecs available, with no aptX support.
  • Physical size of the charging case is large and might not be pocket-friendly.
  • Included eartips may not be suitable for all ear sizes, with a shorter nozzle affecting fit for some users.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Final ZE8000: Svanar Wireless offers a more W-shaped and punchy signature, greater upper mids gain, more precise imaging, and a vaster sound layering capability, while the ZE8000 sound more neutral to L shape, warmer, and have more sub bass boost and warmth.
  • Vs Noble FoKus Mystique: Svanar Wireless has some emphasis in the bass, but not as much, has stronger overall imaging performance—providing a wider soundstage and the best balance between the separation and cohesion in the imaging.
  • Vs HIFIMAN Svanar (wired): Svanar Wireless soundstage is taller and wider but not as deep, since clarity isn’t as sharp and clean, silence being more ”noisy”.
  • Vs Sony WF-1000XM4: The Svanar Wireless presents a much more detailed, natural and sophisticated kind of sound, while Sony has bloated bass, that overwhelms everything else.
  • Vs Apple AirPods Pro: The Svanar Wireless generally outperforms the AirPods Pro in sound quality.

Takeaway: The Svanar Wireless is a solid choice for TWS lovers, with a top-tier sound quality, effective ANC, and its convenience and comfort. It is innovative, less bass-heavy tuning, and overall a solid proposal.

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
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