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

  • Smooth, warm-leaning tonality that does not unnaturally emphasize bass or treble
  • Midrange is a highlight, described as smooth, gently weighted, and natural, making vocals and acoustic instruments sound honest and uncolored
  • Features a premium build with materials like African Zebrawood earcups, CNC-machined aluminum, and lambskin leather
  • The earcups rotate 180 degrees for easy storage and comfort when wearing around the neck
  • Comes with a high-quality hard-shell carrying case

Product Considerations

  • Sub-bass extension could be better, the bass tuning is more focused on mid-bass than sub-bass rumble
  • Can be power hungry
  • The earpads can get warm after 2-3 hours of use
  • Some reviewers express a preference for a 3.5mm cable instead of an adapter
  • The overall clarity is slightly on the soft side because of the relaxed treble

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs FiiO FT1: Similar technical performance but the PENG is thicker and darker, the FT1 has a larger soundstage and deeper bass
  • Vs Denon D5200: Similar performance and tonality but the D5200 has more midbass and subbass presence, the PENG wins on comfort and build quality
  • Vs Sivga Answer: Sounds slightly more refined, smoother, and with better resolution compared to the Sivga Answer
  • Vs Sennheiser HD 650s: Sennheisers have deeper bass and clearer highs, while the PENG is more flat and easygoing

Takeaway: The Sivga Peng offers a smooth, warm, and balanced listening experience, paired with a premium design. If comfort, craftsmanship, and relaxed sound are valued, the Peng could be a great option.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

Peng

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

  • High Impedance: Designed for clear, detailed, high-fidelity sound
  • Premium Build: African zebrawood housing with distinctive natural grain and solid construction
  • Copper Ring Diaphragm System: Ensures stable signal transmission with low distortion
  • Ergonomic Fit: Angled earpads provide comfort and an excellent seal
  • Detachable Cable: 6N OCC cable supports pure, high-resolution audio
High-impedance hi-fi headphones featuring clear, bright sound quality with distinct layering. Made with African zebra wood that's solid with unique grain patterns. The core diaphragm innovatively incorporates a copper ring stabilization system for stable transmission and reduced distortion.
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:

  • The brand deviates from a singular house sound, offering a variety of sonic profiles across its product line, catering to diverse listening preferences.

SIVGA

  • Positioning: A lightweight, open-back headphone designed for easy drivability and everyday use.  
  • Description: Features a 3mm thick high-performance magnet and a specially developed polycarbonate membrane that provide clarity and a simple sound signature. Compared to models like Robin and P-Ⅱ, its design is aimed at casual listeners in small spaces with a modest budget and basic functionality.

Robin - SV021

  • Positioning: A closed-back headphone that blends natural wood with metal for a refined yet straightforward design.  
  • Description: Combines handcrafted redwood with a 50mm dynamic driver to achieve balanced sound without complex tuning. Compared to the entry-level PHOENIX, it offers improved build quality and material choice.

SIVGA P-Ⅱ

  • Positioning: A sophisticated wooden headphone emphasizing meticulous craftsmanship for a balanced acoustic experience.  
  • Description: Uses premium natural solid wood and a dual-sided magnetic driver developed over years to deliver precise and natural sound. When compared to Robin and PHOENIX, its extensive handcrafting and detailed design reflect enhanced acoustic refinement.

SV023

  • Positioning: A high-fidelity over-ear headphone built with walnut wood and professional-grade components for detailed sound reproduction.  
  • Description: Uses a 50mm dynamic driver with imported LCP composite membranes and high-purity 6N OCC cables to ensure dynamic yet nuanced audio. Relative to P-Ⅱ and Robin, its higher impedance and advanced components provide superior performance and expanded functionality.

P2 PRO

  • Positioning: A flagship wired headphone that showcases high-end CNC-carved solid wood and metal accents for a modern, premium build.  
  • Description: Offers clear and bright sound through meticulous red oak construction, accented by CNC-engraved metal parts and imported 6N OCC cables. Compared to all other products in the lineup, its advanced build quality and innovative design provide the most refined option.
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Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
819
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
11
Founding Year
2016

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.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

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From our interview with
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Brand Page

Used

SIVGA

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What if you spend more?

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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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.
Check Amazon
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
Product Page
Product image
Bang & Olufsen
Beoplay HX
749
749
/
10
Reviews
Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Exquisite build quality with premium materials, like anodized aluminum, memory foam, lambskin leather, and high-quality polymer
  • Very comfortable, generously padded with memory foam wrapped in lambskin, and the headband distributes pressure evenly
  • Long battery life, up to 35 hours with ANC on and 40 hours with ANC off
  • Sound quality is rich, refined, spacious, balanced, and impressively detailed
  • Good voice pickup and decent noise suppression in moderately noisy environments
  • Connectivity options are available

Product Considerations

  • Round ear pads may pull down on ear cartilage and rest on ear lobes
  • The HX can only be laid down flat, they are not fully collapsible
  • ANC is good, but not quite at the level of industry leaders
  • Touch panel is awkward to use, and touches are often not registered properly

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sony 1000XM4/XM5 and Bose 700, ANC on the HX is not quite at the level of these industry leaders
  • Vs the H95, the HX are more sensible, and noticeably cheaper
  • Vs the Sony XM3, the HX looks far more refined
  • Vs the Apple AirPods Max, the HX has up to 15 hours of additional battery life, and are also 100g lighter
  • Vs the Bowers & Wilkins PX7, the HX brings a slightly higher level of refinement, showcasing detail and nuances that are missed

Takeaway: The Beoplay HX are beautifully made headphones that deliver excellent sound quality and are highly comfortable. If the user values aesthetics as much as audio and is willing to pay a premium for quality, then the HX is worth consideration.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Bang & Olufsen is a luxury hifi speaker brand known for its Acoustic Lens Technology, which delivers 180° horizontal sound dispersion—features like the BeoLab 90's 18 individually amplified drivers offer user-selectable beam patterns. The Danish company distinguishes itself through vertically integrated aluminum manufacturing in Struer, a factory-led program that restores and modernizes its classic products, and transparent engineering documentation led by in-house tonmeister Geoff Martin.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Softears
Twilight
930
930
/
9
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Balanced to warm sound signature with ample bass that is present without overpowering the sound
  • Sublime vocals, clear with even minor voice modulations distinctly audible
  • Exceptional build quality with premium materials like aircraft aluminum alloy, resulting in a durable yet lightweight design
  • Comfortable fit for long listening sessions due to narrow vertical placement in the ear

Product Considerations

  • Treble is slightly rolled off, which can sacrifice some airiness and detail in the highs
  • Below average passive isolation, not suitable for noisy environments
  • Soundstage is average to narrow

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Final A8000: The A8000 has a more natural tonality overall, more air, a wider soundstage, and better separation/layering, while Twilight has more bass with forward vocals and rolled off treble
  • Vs 64 Audio Duo: Twilight offers warmth and engagement in its sound signature, especially noticeable in the midrange, while the Duo provides a sound that is rich in detail and expansive in soundstage
  • Vs Meze Audio Advar: The Advar is better in critical listening and brass instruments, while the Twilight has better 3D imaging

Takeaway: The Softears Twilight is an excellent IEM that offers a very easy, likeable, and musical sound which can be enjoyed for hours. It offers a balanced to warm sound, sublime vocals, and comfortable fit, making it a solid choice for audiophiles looking for a single dynamic driver IEM.

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
Product Page

What competes at this price?

SIVGA
Robin
149
/
Released
2021
A closed-back wooden headphone combining wood and metal materials with a classic, fashionable appearance. It uses a self-developed 50mm dynamic driver that produces a soft, easy-listening 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

  • Solid build quality and premium aesthetics with wooden earcups and comfortable earpads
  • Generally comfortable and lightweight design
  • Easy to drive, suitable for use with smartphones or low-powered sources
  • Fun, musical sound signature, versatile and well-rounded, great for casual listening and gaming
  • Good imaging, soundstage, and detail retrieval for a closed-back headphone at its price point

Product Considerations

  • Midrange can be recessed and sometimes distant
  • V-shaped sound signature might not be ideal for those seeking a neutral reference sound
  • Can get warm or hot, especially in warmer climates
  • Loose fit for smaller heads may affect sound perception
  • Treble may get harsh or sibilant on poorly mixed tracks or at higher volumes

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro: SV021 has more bass quantity, while DT990 Pro has thicker leading edges on bass notes and a more forward treble
  • Vs Sivga Oriole: Oriole is an improvement over Robin in almost every way, with a better sound signature, forward mids, better detail, and a more satisfying bass impact
  • Vs Fostex TH610: TH610 sounds more correct and neutral, with more definition in its bass, while SV021 is bassier, warmer—and thicker
  • Vs Meze 99C: The Robin has deeper, wider soundstage and better imaging, it is also cleaner, with better sparkle in the treble and more air

Takeaway: The Sivga Robin SV021 is a stylish and comfortable pair of headphones that offers a fun and engaging listening experience. It is a good choice for anyone seeking an aesthetically pleasing and versatile closed-back headphone for casual use and gaming, especially if they enjoy a warmer, bass-forward 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
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
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
Product Page
Product Page
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.
Check Amazon
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
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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