Our top recs for seriously impressive headphone amplifiers.
Stick a pin in it, summer’s just about done for.
Now we’re staring down the barrel of the big chill, and we’re gonna have to get serious about our indoor entertainment if we want to get through it without either losing our marbles or freezing them off. What else are you supposed to do, take in the beautiful changing foliage? Get really into trick-or-treating? As if.
It doesn’t have to be all gloom and doom, though! Whether you’re looking for something to complement your perfect gaming rig or a punch of power for your juice-hungry headphones, we’d be willing to bet we’ve got something for you to get excited about.
Settle in for a long winter’s night with this awesome, customisable amplifier from Burson. This is one of the most powerful headphone amps around, and it’s perfect for anybody looking to upgrade their gaming setup to include a serious sonic boost.
No high end soundcards in gaming feature the DAC chip found in the Play, which means PC gamers have to settle for distortion, poor sound quality, and noisy power supplies. Who wants subpar audio dragging you out of the moment when you’re trying to keep an ear out for raiders lurking in the capital wasteland?
The Play is perfect for users wanting to roll their opamps, which means you can tweak that sound to your exact specifications and lose yourself completely in whatever world you’d like to substitute for the cold, wet one outside.
You’ve gotta show your face in the real world eventually, but why resign yourself to a less-than-stellar listening experience while you’re making moves?
The Micro iDSD Black Label is a perfect portable companion for those wanting to maintain a high standard both at home and on the way to your friend’s ill-advised homemade fireworks display. Drown out the sounds of his self-inflicted injuries with three power output modes to make it the perfect match for the most sensitive headphones all the way to the most power-hungry. What’s that? You need more options? It’s got you covered- the 3D+ option allows you to focus the stereo image, and the XBass+ gives you control over deepening and tightening bass frequencies.
This amp is a real ride-or-die. You’ll get 6-12 hours of power out of it depending on use and settings, and the USB port means you can charge your phone or other electronic devices as well! Do your other friends put in this kind of effort for you? Ricky won’t even lend you £5 for lunch. Serves him right about the fireworks mishap.
Treat yourself to a slice of simplicity in the form of The Element, a deceptively powerful unit from JDS Labs. You don’t need anything too showy- not like your neighbours already throwing their Christmas lights up. The Element’s gentle copper-coloured ring of light beneath the volume control will inspire plenty of warm cozy feelings.
The Element’s minimalist design houses absolute reference quality perfection in a body that doesn’t fight for attention, but will probably get it, because- let’s face it, it looks good.
And it’s more multifaceted than it appears- just turn the amplifier off and use the analog jack inputs to turn The Element into a standalone DAC. The gift that keeps on giving!
So whether you’re dreading the change of the seasons or welcoming it with open arms, it’s more fun to do things with a buddy. Or three.
Not content with the splash it’s made with its updated ER4 designs of late, Etymotic is back with more! Or is it less? The ER3 models cost a good chunk less than their ER4 counterparts, so what does this mean in terms of value?
Pros:
Classic Etys for the price
Removable cable
Crystal clarity
Carry case
Cons:
Basic selection of tips
Etymotic deep fit not for everyone
Design and appearance
The ER3 versions are slightly more sensitive than the ER4 versions, with half the impedance too. This may have been done with an eye on the portable market, where some handsets may have struggled to get up to a good volume with the ER4 type.
Accessories are minimal with the ER3-SE and ER3-XR; along with the earphones themselves, we get a case and three pairs of tips. The two sizes of Etymotic triple flange, and a pair of ER38-14F type foam eartips.
Durability & build quality
The capsules are the most obvious change, with plastic-coated aluminium being used instead of the glossy metal look of the ER4. The cable has a good strong, but pliable feel to it, but it is a bit thinner and is not braided at the top. Apart from the slightly lighter weight and less glossy look of the ER3-version capsules, things are much as we’d expect from the ER4-XR and ER4-SR.
Comfort
No change here; Etymotics need to be inserted deeply to be at their best, and people either love the isolation they bring or hate the deep insertion of the eartips. Fortunately we love the isolation enough to ignore any initial discomfort, and the eartips seem to settle into place after a few seconds.
Sound characteristics:
Like the ER4 designs, there are two flavours of ER3. The Etymotic ER3-SE is the more strait-laced and neutral of the two, with the ER3-XR giving a little more bass warmth. Both however sound a little more gentle in terms of the midrange than their ER4 brethren. Where we sometimes get the feeling of jeopardy with the ER4 models, with an errant xylophone or female vocalist threatening to poke us in the ear, the ER3 versions are a little more laid back. Etymotic’s clarity has not been sacrificed though; the midrange presence is just a little more humane.
Bass
Sub bass on the ER3-SE gives a nice bit of wobble which is low in the mix, but there alright. The rest of the bass is as well controlled as expected, but understated; bass junkies need not apply. There’s some great control here though. Meanwhile, the ER3-XR has more of that skull-rattling sub bass and more slam generally. We’re still not in basshead territory, but if you like your sound a little warmer with more weight given to cellos and drums then the ER3-XR may be for you.
Mids
Mids are always a treat as far as Etymotic’s offerings are concerned, and the ER3-SE does not disappoint. While the midrange level is slightly lowered when compared to the ER4-SR, all the other attractive features are there along with a wonderful sense of spaciousness. Details are well rendered, though not with the sharp relief of the ER4-SR. Many will feel the ER3-SE has more comfortable sound when compared to the ER4-SR in terms of the sound, but with all its harmonic and spatial treats largely intact.
With the ER3-XR the extra bass presence vies for attention along with the midrange, so the midrange seems to lose its power slightly. The spaciousness of the ER3-SE is tempered, and the extra bass warmth takes its place. The ER3-XR is still excellent when it comes to midrange action and detail, but is arguably the better all-rounder of the two as the tuning works well with genres such as modern dance music.
Treble
The ER3-SE does not sound treble-heavy but there is some nice extension up top. If your recordings were made on analogue tape, you’ll probably know about it from the tape hiss coming through. Treble is at around the same level as the midrange after a smooth transition, and consequently does its job well whilst keeping the midrange in the spotlight.
The ER3-XR has the same treble presence as the ER3-SE, but the fatter low end gives the tuning a warmer feel.
Soundstage & Separation
With the detail and midrange clarity on offer from both these models, we can say that both soundstage and separation are a treat. The sound has a nice ‘out of the head’ feel without seeming unnatural and with good depth too. Separation and imaging are near perfect, if a bit toned down when compared to the dazzling ER4 designs.
Music genres good for and why
The ER3-SE is a great choice for acoustic music, classical and opera. With modern pop and dance genres, it can depend on your sensitivity to the upper midrange frequencies as to whether they work or not, along with your taste for bass. The ER3-XR is good for any genre you can throw at it, and we went through many!
Summary
Etymotic’s ER4 models are now available for cheap (albeit under the ER3 moniker), but their character is largely intact. Those who like to hear the smallest thing within their music needn’t study the fine print of credit card agreements in order to afford the ER3-SE and ER3-XR.
The Whizzer A15 are well worth considering for their £69.99 price; detailed and fun sounding, with great build quality make them a winner.
Pros:
Well balanced
Detailed
Separation
Soundstage
Cons
Highs are not the most refined
Cable is a little thin (replaceable)
Aesthetics, Build Quality and Accessories
The Whizzer A15 is an interesting IEM, with a brushed metal outer shell and the company logo stamped in black on it. They look and feel excellent for the price and have a nice slim profile.
Build quality is very good, especially considering the price. The outer housing is metal, the cable has a soft and flexible section of memory wire and is sheathed in fabric below the y-split. The cable is detachable and uses the popular MMCX connection, so you can use aftermarket cables should you wish. The cable has good strain relief, my only concern is it is a little on the thin side where it enters the section of memory wire.
Accessory wise you get plenty of added extras, first off you get a nice faux leather carry pouch which is small and perfect for storing the IEM’s in. Next you get a metal tip holder with a variety of ear-tips. You get S, M and L in 2 different types of single flange tips, and also a pair of S and L foam tips. The A15 have removable dust filters, and come with a pair of tweezers to remove the old foam, and 5 pairs of new foam filters. Overall everything you need is included, along with some bonus extras.
Comfort, Isolation, Cable noise and Driver flex
The A15 are really comfy, the housing has no sharp edges and the memory wire is supple and easy to shape. Once in they are secure and comfortable for all round usage. I do find the angle of the cable does slightly push them out of your ear and foam tips offer a more secure fit.
Isolation is quite average on the A15, due to the large vent on the inside of the housing. They would be fine for most general usage, but if you are looking to block out loud noises, a fully sealed IEM would be better.
Cable noise is not an issue due to the behind the ear cable routing.
Driver flex is not an issue, I believe this is due to the venting of the housing.
Sound
Bass
The A15 are tuned for fun listening, with a strong and punchy low end but without excess or bloat. The bass will satisfy most people and lends its hand to all genres well. The bass is well controlled; during rock tracks bass guitars are easy to follow, and kick drums hit with authority and good body. Acoustic has excellent body and warmth with good tonality, and EDM is just fun and energetic. The bass does not bleed into the midrange, and extends right down to the sub-bass regions with ease.
Midrange
The midrange has excellent bite and clarity, as stated the bass does not cause excessive warmth to the midrange adding only a hint of warmth to the lower midrange. The midrange is also not pushed back in the mix which can happen with some of the more fun sounding headphones out there. A highlight of the midrange is the air and separation, allowing everything to shine through with delicacy and detail. Luckily there isn’t an upper midrange peak, allowing them to be fatigue free with no sibilance.
Treble
The treble is well presented in the mix, not being subdued or left behind. There is a slight peak which gives greater presence to the lower treble region and they don’t quite extend as effortlessly as some more expensive models. But putting them up against similarly priced models, you will find these sound more complete than the usual warm bassy sound of others. Initial cymbal hits have excellent energy but are not sharp, and do not become too bright and fatiguing.
Instrument separation is excellent, the A15 never becomes congested through faster more complex tracks, and the soundstage is above average with great width. Imaging is convincing with good spatial cues and directionality.
Conclusion
The Whizzer A15 lends its hand to all music, and does a great job at being a good all rounder. Stick on some rock and they are energetic and fun, well recorded acoutstic and you can hear subtle detail and warmth. Presenting a well balanced sound across the frequency range, the A15 is a well built IEM for the price with excellent sound to boot.
Sennheiser is a company which seems to have painted itself into a corner in recent years; how do they improve on the models they’ve had on sale for the past few years? It’s either a testament to their design teams of years past, or a damning indictment of the design team they have now. They’re recycling old designs, and adding an ‘S’ so we can’t pluralise without causing confusion. What trickery is this?
Pros:
Nice warm sound
Good assortment of tips and accessories
Carry case
Cons:
Could have more midrange clarity
Straight jack on cable
Design and appearance
A new version of an old classic is simple enough to achieve; round off the corners a bit more and you’re done! There’s probably more to it than that, but this new IE80S bears more than a passing resemblance to the original IE80. However it’s a good look, and Sennheiser obviously knows that it’s not necessary to have flashy designs or gimmicks to impress their fans.
The supplied case is sturdy and sleek, with a non-removeable foam insert which houses the earphones when not in use. Also there are plenty of eartips and accessories, such as a pair of earhooks if your cable keeps popping over your ears.
Durability & build quality
There’s nothing bad to write here, the Sennheiser IE80S is as expected with excellent build quality. The jack on the cable is a straight one which may be a problem for some; if you want a right-angle jack then spare cables for the IE80 will fit just as well.
Sound characteristics:
The tuning is what we expect from Sennheiser; there’s no drastic departure from the typical Sennheiser sound which is warm, with a smattering of treble to keep things interesting but staying comfortable.
Bass
Bass is fairly plentiful and should please lightweight bassheads; however the dials on the sides of the capsules can be adjusted to give a bit more grunt. Control is pretty good, but where it’s loose it feels as if that’s the way it should be. It’s loose with a touch of panache! Subbass is quite powerful if it’s in the music, and you’ll be in no doubt
Mids
The level of the midrange is lower than the bass, but pretty clear and enjoyable nonetheless. Harmonics are clear enough and there is no congestion here, but there is the feeling that the IE80S could do better; at least with the supplied eartips. Aftermarket eartips (such as Blackbird) seem to improve things in this regard.
Treble
Treble is gentle; we’re fond of a warmer sound but the IE80S still takes some getting used to. If you’re a fan of an airy, shimmery sort of presentation then the IE80S is not for you. If however you’re a fan of laid-back music then the IE80S is a contender. Plenty of detail is present though; it comes across as an extension of the midrange with a smooth transition.
Soundstage & Separation
Soundstage on the IE80S is pretty good for an IEM but there’s a lack of depth to the sound, apart from the bass which appears to spread out in front of the listener. Separation is good, but limited with the supplied tips. If you’re splashing out on the IE80S, then try some tips such as Blackbird or Spinfit.
Music genres good for and why
Due to the bass presence, the IE80S is best suited to dance music, pop and rap. Fans of classical, jazz and opera may still enjoy those genres with the IE80S but they will likely miss the airiness and the reverb ‘feel’ of the space the recording was made in.
Summary
Sennheiser’s souped-up IE80 design is here, and it’s an enjoyable listen for many modern genres but some may find the sound lacking air and space for genres such as classical.
We’ve have some of the best full size hi-fi headphones from under £100 to over £1000 from 2017. The reviews are designed to help you choose from the massive selection of hi-fi and audiophile headphones available with open back and closed back designs. From established brands like Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser, to new creative brands like MrSpeakers and Audeze.
Scroll down for in depth reviews of our favourite full size open back and closed back headphones.
The closed-back Edifier H840 has audio quality which belies its entry-level price. Low-cost headphones can emphasise the bass a little too much but the Edifier H840 has a good balance throughout the frequency range, with midrange and treble coming through with impressive clarity. Bass is there too, and prominent enough to give a bit of weight to those basslines without stealing the show.
Build quality is also impressive for headphones at this price; they are quite rugged, but light and comfortable as well.
They can be used either in the home or as a portable model, since the closed-back design offers good isolation from exterior sounds and the H840 can be powered sufficiently by a phone, or a portable music player.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
If you’re on a budget, there is no need to compromise on sound quality. For the asking price, the Edifier H840 represents amazing value.
Sennheiser’s HD461 models come in two flavours, depending on whether you have an Apple handset (with a headphone socket!) or an Android handset. Designed primarily for portable use, the HD461 models can also be used with home equipment as they will still work in standard 3.5mm stereo sockets.
Also, the cables are available separately as spares, so if you change your phone from one type to the other, you only need to get the appropriate cable for full functionality with your new handset.
The design is light and comfortable with a sound akin to what Sennheiser generally prefers; a warm comfortable sound with enough sparkle at the treble end to keep things interesting and vibrant, but without any danger of listener fatigue. The HD461 design hsa a little bit of extra bass than usual however, so if you’re a bass fan then these are worth a try.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
For a bassy accompaniment at home or on the move, the HD461i (or HD461G) will give full functionality with your handset, whether Apple of Android. With spare cables available too, there is no need to change your headphones if you change your phone (iPhone 7 notwithstanding!).
The new HP151 from SoundMAGIC is perfect for those who want to treat themselves to some excellent sound and build quality, but without breaking the bank. The HP151 comes with a sturdy carry case and an extension cable for more options if listening at home, but is otherwise suitable for portable use, being of a closed-back design. Be aware however that whilst the HP151 will work well with commercial genres, classical or similar may require more amplification than a phone/handset can provide on its own, as those music types generally have quieter recordings, with less dynamic compression applied during production.
The HP151 sound has a good amount of well controlled bass from its 53mm drivers, and midrange/treble are clear and present. It’s a comfortable sound, and it is not likely that listener fatigue will set in.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
The HP151 is a fantastic all-rounder, with a bassy yet crisp sound. It has a spacious and wide presentation considering the closed back design, and it looks really good too!
Final makes some excellent-sounding headphones with great build quality too. Their closed-back Sonorous range encompasses many models, but the Sonorous III is a point of interest as it gives some amazing sound quality for the price. With slightly boosted bass and treble, the Sonorous III gives a little added shine to your tracks without going overboard. The low impedance of this design makes it suitable for using with a portable device or phone, for enjoying your collection in the home, or out and about.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
The Sonorous III is a favourite here for its relaxed, natural sound. However the Sonorous II is also noteworthy as a more neutral version, giving a more faithful rendition of your recordings and particularly suitable for classical and acoustic performances.
Best Full Size Headphones Under £800
Now we start to enter the price range of diminishing returns; for instance, headphones costing £800 will not sound twice as good as those costing £400, but if you are intent on raising your headphones game, these smaller improvements are still worthwhile to make your music collection come alive again.
Beyerdynamic has impressed us for many years and continues to do so with new models such as the Amiron Home. With sterling build quality and sound quality alike, the open-back Amiron Home does everything well. All frequencies are very well balanced with each other, with treble a little gentler than quite a few of Beyerdynamic’s previous models.
So the sound is natural and smooth; ideal for relaxing at home (where else?), and quite suitable for any music genres that can be thrown at it.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
The Beyerdynamic Amiron Home is a real treat to use, and is as comfortable to wear as it is to listen to.
A relatively new maker, MrSpeakers has certainly caused a stir with their line of planar-magnetic models recently. Not least with the Aeon, a lightweight design which hits heavy with some excellent sound quality. The design lends itself well to portable uses, although additional amplification may be required if using with a phone.
The sound is fairly well balanced with a little extra bass and lovely clear midrange and treble. The Aeon is well suited for all genres, but a real treat with anything likely to get you moving!
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
If your portable audio game needs updating, the MrSpeakers Aeon is one to look at, although the Aeon is equally enjoyable if you like to stay put.
Focal’s recent additions to their lineup show a slight move away from the generally brighter sound of their previous models, to a gentler more laid-back sound which nevertheless gives detail in spades. The Elear is an exquisitely comfortable model to wear also, and gives the impression of the venerable HD650 but with a little bit of extra treble presence.
The Elear is not a light model at 434g, so this may be worth bearing in mind but the sound is very pleasing indeed.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
French company Focal has produced a real hit with the Elear, and it is easy to understand how; they’re great fun!
Pioneer’s new SE-Monitor5 is where headphones start to get sumptuous and luxurious! Build quality is like an executive car, and the plush padding is much the same. The SE-Monitor5 may be a little heavy for some at 480g but they are made for relaxing at home and swallow up the sides of the head with their huge earcups.
The sound is as you would expect from Pioneer at this price, with well-controlled bass doing just what it needs to according to the music genre being enjoyed. Higher frequencies follow suit and remain faithful to the music, only to add a little bit of extra excitement and glamour to proceedings, whilst staying very relaxing.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
The SE-Monitor5 is incredibly comfortable and bound to please anyone who gives them a listen.
If you have got bored of circling Switzerland in your yacht then you’re probably lost, but you may be wealthy enough to consider the following models for your floating games room! These higher priced models may seem as steep as a black route ski slope, but those who accept no compromise will find the following offerings very interesting.
Sennheiser is no stranger to premium headphones, and has followed up on the excellent HD800, released a few years ago. Some felt that the HD800 is incredibly detailed but at the cost of a certain amount of musicality, so Sennheiser now has the HD800S which offers a little more in the way of ‘soul’. Bass is very responsive to what different music genres need without overdoing things, and midrange/treble give some excellent soundstage and imaging with a slightly gentler presentation when compared to the older HD800.
The HD800S is however just as comfortable as its older brother the HD800; these models can be worn for hours on end with no trouble.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
The HD800S is a very popular model and with good reason; it’s as enjoyable as it is comfortable and has a fair amount of visual impact as well.
Audeze has plenty of models, but at the top of the range we have the planar-magnetic LCD-4. Top notch build quality is to be expected at this price, including unique drivers which feature NASA technology in their nano-scale diaphragms. These light, thin diaphragms can move very quickly with no inertia, making transient response times very fast, and bass precise with nice extension and very good control.
Made from 30 year old Macassar wood, the earcups are set off by bright silver grilles making the LCD-4 a treat to look at as well as to listen to. As well as the excellent bass, midrange and treble follow in good order with a smooth transition between, but with perhaps a slightly recessed midrange, putting bass and treble at the forefront of the presentation.
HiFi Headphones Verdict:
For the last word in headphones, this may need to be your first stop!
Looking for a new pair of on-ear headphones? We’ve collected the best on ear, open back, closed back and portable headphones to buy in 2017 and reviewed them to help you choose.
SoundMAGIC takes a lot of beating in this price category – the brand is a natural at making low cost headphones which sound much pricier.
The P22C model is a lightweight portable with a flat tangle-free cable and good isolation. Ideal for travel and holidays, these will fit right in to any bag or backpack when stored in their low profile travel case. The P22C included a microphone for phone usage and the remote is compatible with both Android and Apple devices.
Sound is impressive for this price point, with plenty of detail and a good kick to the bass without overpowering the mid range.
Engaging and fun-sounding, the P22C will make the absolute most of the output from any portable player.
The Edifier P650 is a smartphone friendly, easy to carry portable headphone that punch above their weight and price.
Offering a well balanced sound with a little added kick down low, the midrange is clean and detailed and the treble isn’t far behind. The bass does not have the most sub-bass rumble but for a quick and easy to use, on the go headphone they offer great sound.
What impresses most is their ability to portray the whole frequency range in a well controlled and balanced manner, too many budget headphones overload you with muddy bass, yet these offer plenty of detail but are also easy to listen to; a no brainer at this price point.
The simple design and great sound keeps them viable while the open-back design, whilst not being the best for isolation of course, is perfect for those who wish to be aware of what’s going on around them such as joggers, and muggers.
The sound is generally well balanced between bass and treble, although the midrange can seem a bit distant and mushy. Bass is perhaps a bit on the heavy side, but it will definitely satisfy those who want a bassy sound. The Koss Porta Pro Classics offer a warmish sound overall.
Be aware though that their open-back nature means that they will be of limited use in noisy environments.
B&W have a long history of making excellent hifi products, and this has trickled down into their headphones.
The P3 are superbly built with an elegant and sophisticated look, the P3 really do impress. Lucikly they are not all about the look either, as the P3 offer a smooth and effortless sound that is akin to their house speaker sound. Offering excellent full bodied bass response with a non fatiguing and slightly sweet midrange and treble.
Comfortable, well built with a smooth and pleasing sound signature, the P3 are perfect for on-the-go use.
The HD25-1 II are one of the most well known on-ear headphones, this is partly due to their popularity as a DJ headphone. Used by DJ’s and sound engineers globally the HD25-1 II are a rugged portable headphone that will last for years.
Offering an immediate and aggressive sound they won’t give you a wide soundstage but will give you an engaging and detailed signature. The bass is tight and digs deep with excellent control and presence, the midrange is smooth yet very detailed and the treble has good extension and is very well placed in the mix.
If you are looking for a smooth laid back sound, the B&W are probably a better choice, but if you want a fun, upfront and engaging listen the HD25-1 II is for you. All parts are easily replaceable too, should anything ever break.
The Grado SR80e are a definite improvement over the SR80i, with a slightly warmer, more balanced sound. Their retro styling may not appeal to all, but underneath the looks is a fine sounding open-back headphone. The undisputed king of headphones for rock music, these are sure to get you toe tapping and head banging in no time.
These will not appeal to bass heads, they fair better with music that is played on real instruments. They have long been favourites for people that enjoy rock music due to the speed and control of the sound.
At the price point I still think Grado hold their own with a well balanced, aggressive and detailed sound, there is nothing quite like them.
The Momentum series are hugely popular with on the go commuters, and for good reason. Offering stylish looks, a comfortable fit and a smooth easy to listen to sound.
Built to last with replaceable parts, the Momentum has slightly retro looks and comes in an array of colours. With playback controls on the cable you no longer have to take your phone out of your pocket. The sound is dynamic and punchy, offrering a slightly bass driven sound without sacrificing the midrange and treble. Engaging and fun are the best word to sum up the Momentum 2.0i.
Good looks and great sound, it is easy to see why the Momentum 2.0i is so popular with commuters. For Android users there is also the Sennheiser Momentum 2.0G.
The T51i have been around for a while now and are still excellent on-the-go headphones. They have a sturdy and sophisticated look, and offer a well balanced and detailed sound.
The T51i again tilts towards an easier to listen to sound, with a slight bass boost that gives the whole sound a little added body. There is sufficient detail across the range to keep them from sounding boring and what comes to mind when you put the T51i on is refinement.
With excellent build, comfy fit and refined sound the T51i has a lot to offer.
Leather earpads and a metal headband, the P5 Series 2 screams quality and luxury. The earpads are soft lambskin leather with memory foam inside, like cushions against your ears.
Like the P3 the P5 Series 2 has the typical B&W house sound, which is smooth and effortless. Offering a well balanced but slightly rich sound with superb separation and articulation, from highs to lows these sound very refined and grown up.
The P5 Series 1 look stunning, have replaceable cables and a smooth effortless sound, what is not to like?
Built from leather and metal, the Audeze Sine are built to last and also come with detachable cables. Using planar magnetic drivers they take a little more power than most phones can output, so they are best used with a high quality music player.
Give them a good source and the Sine in return give you excellent audio with snappy dynamics that can keep up with the most demanding of music. The bass is full yet superbly controlled, the midrange is where these excel not allowing the lows to affect them. Guitars have excellent power, and vocals come across with plenty of detail. The highs are present and well defined, but never become too hot and harsh.
The Sine are a mighty fine sounding on-ear headphone when driven well, and give you a full and detailed sound all
Sleek sporty look with a perfect fit, the P281 Sport are some new budget kings on the block. Coming in at £24.99 they are a huge step up to any headphones that come with a phone.
Offering a well balanced sound with good kick down low, they offer an engaging and fun listening experience when out and about, yet still allow plenty of detail to be heard. From top to bottom there are not real peaks or dips, they have a smooth and easy to listen to sound. What is also great is the inclusion of a microphone and button for taking calls or skipping tracks.
What can be better than the award winning SoundMAGIC E10 for under £50? The E10C has the same superb build quality and sound signature as the E10 but with the added function of a universal smartphone in-line microphone – need we say more?
The E10C has tight bass with plenty of weight – the mids are well defined and the top end sparkles. These earphones are perfect for listening on the go as the sound is fun and they will sound great with whatever you throw at them.
If you have £40 to spend on some new earphones then go for the SoundMAGIC E10 – if you need an in-line microphone then go for the E10C. Easy.
If you are looking for a more detailed and neutral sound than the E10C, take a look at the MEE Audio M6 Pro. With it’s monitor like sound and styling, detachable cable and great looks, it is a steal for under £50.
Well the M6 Pro with Blackbird S20 foam tips may have become a new favourite for under £50. These really managed to have everything and sound very engaging, the highs do not disappoint with their presence and tone, the midrange is slightly up front and the mid bass has a mild boost, as a stage monitor I can see these being good and the sound would be easily tuneable with EQ.
For under £50 you won’t find this level of detail, clarity or separation from another in-ear headphone. Add to that brilliant build quality and you have a winner.
Looking for a more bass oriented in-ear headphone with an upfront and engaging sound, yet without losing out on the finer details and comfort, you need the Oriveti Basic.
A 10mm titanium coated driver supplies an impressive amount of bass. Now I am not much of a bass head but after listening to these for a while I found myself really enjoying them.
They’re not audiophile and they won’t give you a reference sound but if you like your earphones to be fun and enjoyable with plenty of punch then these could be for you. The isolation and comfort is also really impressive and along with replaceable cables they are a great buy!
Oriveti are new on the scene and they certainly know how to make an entrance. The new Oriveti Basic earphone packs a punch and gives you plenty of features for its modest price tag.
Looking for a in-ear headphone with quick snappy transients, whilst retaining a well balanced sound signature? Take a look at the New Westone UM Pro10, revised in 2017 to be even better and more comfortable.
Predictably, the balanced armature makes short work of replicating higher frequencies accurately, but the real interest is at the low end where single BA IEMs are concerned. Provided a decent seal can be achieved, the bass is in good balance with the rest of the presentation, although bassheads will be wanting more.
If you fancy the idea of a single balanced armature earphone, but don’t fancy the protruding capsules of the Etymotic designs then the UM Pro 10 is worth a close look. Sometimes the best designs are the simplest and I really think there is something to be said for single-driver IEMs. Makers may be able to tune the sound signature a little more with multiple drivers, but this risks muddying the sound with possible phase/imaging issues as the audio from these different drivers reaches our ears at different times.
In short – choose the simple life and get the UM Pro 10!
One of our best sellers, the New Primacy has a well balanced sound signature with class leading separation and clarity.
The Oriveti New Primacy has a bit of a mid forward sound signature, with excellent clarity and air throughout the range, the bass digs deep and is very articulate, the mids have a habit of bringing out all the detail in recordings but not in an unpleasant way. The highs are airy and well extended, without fatiguing properties, overall a very comfortable and enjoyable listen. The New primacy manages to be a very coherent sounding hybrid design, with a very well textured and layered sound.
Our top pick for under £500 is the Dunu DK-3001, with impressive technical capabilities that are really enjoyable to listen to as well. Punchy and clear sound with a wide soundstage, these are truly excellent.
The Dunu DK-3001 is a very well done hybrid IEM, the bass is dynamic and punchy, with excellent and realistic body. The midrange is well layered and very detailed, with a hint of smoothness to it. The highs are always present, yet not fatiguing. These work well with all genres, the bass is fun and energetic in EDM, and rock comes across with detail and layering. Jazz has a very natural tone, and they just take all genres in their stride, however their ability to control heavy metal is truly impressive.
If you don’t mind the open back design, the Audeze iSine20 will offer a listening experience more like a full size headphone than an in-ear model.
Offering an open sound with excellent punch the iSine20 offers a relaxing listening experience with slightly polite treble. Keeping in tone with their house sound the iSine20 offers good bass quantity with non-fatiguing treble and a natural tone. This is a very unique IEM that is well worth looking into if you want a more traditional headphone sound. The sound is slightly v-shaped; it’s a warmish, ‘fun’ tuning yet still retains excellent detail retrieval.
The W80 are an incredible performer, with a very detailed, spacious yet smooth sound plus an added Alo Audio cable you are sure to be impressed. Fitting 8 BA drivers into this tiny housing is no easy task, yet Westone have done it without sacrificing anything at all.
Some of the most comfortable IEM’s available; the Westone W80 is a pleasure to use for long periods of time, especially with their non fatiguing sound. The bass has body and impact adding a little warmth to the overall sound, the midrange is smooth and non fatiguing, yet the finer details still shine thought. The treble is slightly relaxed but still retains a certain level of sparkle and extension; they are not analytical but still extract the finer details with ease. A very well balanced IEM, that is comfortable and easy to listen to.
The FI-BA-SST35 is one for the detail lovers, being very unforgiving of the source material you will want to listen to well recorded music to get the most out of these.
Final are kings at squeezing the most out of one single BA driver, and the FI-BA-SST35 is no different. Using their proprietary BAM design they move more air, and dig deeper than most conventional single BA driver designs. The bass is always well controlled but offers good impact and articulation without becoming overwhelming or adding much body to the overall sound. The midrange changes depending on the track you are listening to, yet is always very detailed and very transparent. The treble is not fatiguing yet offers incredible insight into the recording, again play well recorded tracks and you will be rewarded with great sound. The soundstage and separation are both excellent, and the timbre is very good for a single BA driver.
Hifiheadphones are pleased to announce that we will soon have stock of the new Aurisonics Bravo series of 3D printed in-ear monitor headphones – the Kicker, Forte and Harmony. Each model has their own sound signature – the series has something for every taste. We have covered each of these models in detail for you.
Aurisonics Kicker – RRP £249
As the name suggests, the accent with the Kicker is on bass with midrange delivering some nice textures too. Perfect for those wanting to live the low life without compromising bass quality. The 9.25mm dynamic driver in the Kicker can also deliver a nice amount of detail at the treble end of things but it is smooth enough to give the low and midrange frequencies centre stage. There is a good amount of space on that stage too, with separation enhanced by some very nice harmonics.
Aurisonics Forte – RRP £379
Moving through the range, the Forte features both a 9.25mm dynamic driver and a balanced armature which has been designed especially for use with within a hybrid IEM. Bass is every bit as present as with the Kicker, but with enhanced midrange for greater presence with vocals, transients on drums and decays for a clear sense of space. Treble is gentle and sits very well with the rest of the presentation; it works seamlessly with midrange frequencies to complement and not overshadow them.
Aurisonics Harmony – RRP £489
Sitting on top of the Bravo Series is the Harmony model. The addition of a second balanced armature to work with the 9.25mm dynamic driver creates more presence near the top of the frequency range, but it still has a smooth edge. As with the previous models, the Harmony gives a warm, bassy presentation with good control. The overall sound is a little more neutral from midrange up, with no peaks or bumps in the frequency response and no danger of fatigue. Perfect for professionals and end-users alike.
All models are available to Pre-Order from us at Hifiheadphones
Bloc & Roc are relatively new arrivals in the headphones world; hailing from London, they may have just been delayed in traffic – but they’re here now with models such as the Galvanize S2. Aerospace-grade aluminium and 40mm drivers promise a well-built and impactful experience; so does the Bloc and Roc Galvanize S2 soar like a bird, or blow up during launch?
Pros:
Solid, yet light construction
Fabric cable
Decent quality jack
Sturdy carry case
Cons:
Cable is not detachable
Some may prefer more brightness
Design and appearance
Like those planes and rockets, the Galvanize S2 is designed to be light and functional with a no-nonsense approach and spartan design ethic. Everything within its payload has been justified and the design whittled down, making an incredibly light and comfortable pair of headphones. However for those not intent on staying within their baggage limit, a 24 carat version is available – we have the ‘plane’ black version here for this review.
Durability & build quality
Despite the lightweight construction and materials, the Galvanize S2 gives a strong impression of ruggedness. The fabric cable again gives a nod towards hardiness and the jack has a strong metal construction, much like the best jack plugs out there.
Comfort
A lot of portables either suffer from poor isolation or too much in terms of clamping force, but the Galvanize S2 gets it just right. These headphones can be worn for extended periods without any problem. Those with glasses may have issues much like with any on-ear model, but glasses can be readjusted once the headphones are in position, to avoid any discomfort.
Sound isolation
Very good for an on-ear model – the Galvanize S2 attenuates rather than blocking everything out; but particularly with music playing, the outside world is effectively sealed off. People nearby will not be disturbed by your music. There’s not much sound escaping the earcups even at higher volumes.
Portability
The Galvanize S2 can go wherever you go – Hifiheadphones will stock the version with a strong outer case included, so the headphones are very well protected in a bag or case.
Sound characteristics:
The Bloc and Roc Galvanize S2 is a warm-sounding headphone, but mid-range detail is definitely present with a decent amount of control.
Bass
Bass is plentiful but tight and well textured; it doesn’t get on the wrong side of the music and puts in more of an appearance when the music calls for it. It can go down very low too; dance music and similar bass-driven genres will be well enhanced.
Mids (e.g. vocals, acoustic instruments):
The relatively smooth top end opens up the midrange for harmonics and vocals; acoustic tracks are a treat along with those featuring wind instruments and strings.
Treble (e.g. high hats):
Although the treble end of things is toned down a little, details are not sacrificed. Bells still jingle, and cymbal crashes still smash, but without impinging on the excellent midrange and lower frequencies.
Soundstage & Separation
As well as the clear midrange on the Galvanize S2, there’s a tremendous sense of space which goes along with it; reverbs make us almost agoraphobic. Soundstage is very good for a closed-back headphone, and separation is excellent.
Music genres good for and why
As mentioned above, the Bloc & Roc Galvanize S2 is well suited to many genres; dance and rap music both benefit from the midrange and bass emphesis, while acoustic tracks are enhanced by the excellent sense of space and harmonics reproduction within the midrange. Rock music too. Right now I’m trying the Galvanize S2 with some classic Italian cinema music – Armando Trovaioli’s theme to L’Arcidiavolo – and there’s woodwind jumping right out at me. It’s as good as I’ve heard.
Summary
The Bloc and Roc Galvanize S2 is one of those headphones which gets better the longer it’s worn. The way it brings instruments and performances to life is quite something for an on ear portable – quite uplifting! With this sort of power and finesse, the Galvanize S2 can certainly rocket.
It appears that the relative price of wireless gadgets such as Bluetooth headphones is coming down and quality is going ever up, now that manufacturers have spotted the potential of this technology and are implementing it so well. Among them is SoundMAGIC, who have experience making wireless headphones with the full-size WP10, but now have the BT20 Bluetooth on-ear headphone in their repertoire. Now we can block out the world and make calls just as if we were talking to ourselves too.
Design and appearance (e.g. attractiveness, feel)
The SoundMAGIC BT20 is a light and very portable headphone; not a million miles away from previous wired on-ears this company made, but given the technology and battery required to sit in this model and work its magic, there’s no noticeable increase in weight. Also, if your battery is getting a little low then you can use the supplied cable and carry enjoying your music, bypassing the Bluetooth features.
Build quality is what we’d expect for a portable headphone. Just as robust as it needs to be, without going overweight and giving us neck ache. Materials are typical for a decent quality headphone of this type; plastic with a slightly rubberised feel, metal elements in the headband, and a leatherette covering on the headband cushion and earpads.
Comfort
The lightness of the SoundMAGIC BT20 combined with freedom from cable worries makes these headphones particularly fun to wear; there’s a bit of pressure on the ears but no more than is required to keep them in place.
Suitability for intended application
The BT20 boasts Bluetooth version 4.0 for greater battery life, there’s NFC for easy pairing, CVC for clearer calls. Also, the apt-x standard is present, so you’re all set should your handset have this. If not, then the headphones can still use the SBC standard, so will still work.
The mic-equipped arm pokes out along the cheekbone for clearer calls; in fact there are two mics which enable a noise cancelling process which gets rid of a lot of extraneous noise. Perfect – those personal words to your nearest and dearest need not be shouted!
Being wireless, these headphones are perfect for many activities and sporting pursuits; their light yet strong construction means they’ll avoid any loneliness for the long distance runner.
Sound isolation
Isolation is fair; the SoundMAGIC BT20 is not the most isolating of headphones with nothing playing but most of the outside world is very well masked by any music playing. The relative lack of isolation is more than made up for by the comfort aspect; the clamping force applied by most portable headphones can lead to a little discomfort during longer sessions. For others around you however, any music you’re enjoying is reduced to a faint murmur so you needn’t feel self conscious about your more questionable favourites.
Portability (if applicable)
As hinted at above, they offer no trouble when worn on the head and also around the neck. They can be packed away in the semi-circular case they come with, along with a stereo audio cable for those longer trips. It won’t be possible to use the headphones for calls without battery power so the handset’s mic will have to come into play. The Bluetooth 4.0 standard ensures the battery will last longer but it won’t last indefinitely of course!
Sound characteristics:
(Used with a Huawei Ascend handset)
The BT20 has a sound signature which SoundMAGIC is perhaps best known for. They are certainly tuned for a fun sound.
Bass (e.g. punch, low extension):
Bass reaches low and is voluminous when required; it stays put and provides a good solid foundation. It’s well controlled and fairly tight. With sub bass or with a double bass on older tracks it can certainly make its presence felt; quite surprising considering the BT20 is an on-ear model with 40mm drivers.
Mids (e.g. vocals, acoustic instruments):
There’s a great sense of space and despite the elevated levels of bass and treble, the mid-range stands up to be counted. Harmonics are enjoyable and there’s a good sense of balance with the bass level. The two complement each other very well.
Treble (e.g. high hats):
The top end is smooth but there’s plenty of detail to be enjoyed. The SoundMAGIC BT20 is a good time headphone and gives a nice level of representation here without getting fatiguing.
Soundstage & Separation
Soundstage is excellent for a little closed back such as this, and is very well enhanced by the separation of instruments and voices. It’s a very immersive experience.
Music genres good for and why
First of course, the BT20 is great with dance genres, hip-hop, R&B and pop; but that’s not all – older music types are not lost on these headphones. 60s pop, jazz and classical come across very nicely too.
Pros:
Worry-free wireless connection
Cable to conserve power or for when battery is flat
Good no-nonsense styling
Track/Call answer controls on headphones
Good Bluetooth range
Noise cancelling microphone
As we head into the holiday season, hearts yearn for the sun, sea and surf of far-flung destinations and ears twitch for suitable sounds. But brains and pockets chime in and mention the likelihood of things getting lost during those carefree moments. With the SoundMAGIC P30 headphones however, excellent quality can be taken along with you which will not cost arms and legs.
Design and appearance
The P30 is built for travel so can fold neatly when not in use and be stored in a rather handsome pouch which is included. When worn, it blends very well and is discreet in terms of looks and sound leakage.
Durability & build quality
For a headphone at this price, the SoundMAGIC P30 is very well put together and will last for many a voyage. The right-angled jack will certainly help when your player/phone is in a pocket or bag as the cable will not undergo much stress or jut out.
Comfort
The P30 is very light and can be nestled on the head with little danger of discomfort. They grip well to the head and don’t cause discomfort with glasses or sunglasses, also they can be worn around the neck without much danger of getting in the way of the candy floss or latte.
Suitability for intended application
Portability and versatility are the watchwords here – so when back from galavanting on foreign shores the P30 is perfect for general use at home and commuting.
Sound isolation
Isolation is good but with music playing, any exterior sounds are banished. The well upholstered earpads prove a good barrier against the droning of jet engines, the whirring of train wheels or the crashing of bumper cars.
Sound characteristics:
Bass (e.g. punch, low extension):
Bass is present in buckets and spades; not to the extent that all other parts are overshadowed but everything has a very solid foundation. There is a little bit of a looseness about it but the mid-range can hold its own.
Mids (e.g. vocals, acoustic instruments):
The mid-range is full and rich, bringing out harmonics and vocals nicely.
Treble (e.g. high hats):
Treble is sharp without being ‘in your face’, allowing the laid-back sound to have great definition. Percussion is not lost on the SoundMAGIC P30 and along with the bass they have, the P30 is well suited to pop and dance music as well as being great all-rounders.
Soundstage & Separation
There’s a good feel of space in the sound and individual instruments can be picked out with ease. At the same time it all hangs together to give an impressively powerful performance when called on to do so.
Pros:
Easy to fold and pack away
Good to keep around the neck
Light and strong 90 degree jack
Sound quality
Cons:
You may not hear that approaching seagull!
Summary
The perfect companion for the traveller or commuter who wants a cheap option but who will not compromise on sound quality. The SoundMAGIC P30 is of strong and light construction and will provide a great soundtrack to any journey.
Audeze EL-8 Open-Back – Land of Open Glory – Expert Review
Intro
Based in Sunny California, Audeze have endeavoured to spread a little spare sunshine around; even to the point of piercing the gloom here in the UK! We’re all aware of the effect The Golden State’s orange juice has on us in the mornings, and it appears that its headphones aren’t far behind in being able to part the clouds, if only in terms of dazzling audio resolution.
The planar magnetic EL-8 Open-Back is a bit of a departure from Audeze’s other designs; it’s smaller, lighter and and more travel friendly with an ability to be folded flat – not that the idea of stopping listening and packing these headphones away is particularly alluring.
Design and appearance (e.g. attractiveness, feel)
I say that the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back is lighter than the other models; and while that may be the case, they still have a fair bit of weight. When compared to the average portable out there they won’t win any Oscars unless there is a strong supporting cast. But if viewed as a headphone for any quiet scenario such as for home use too, the EL-8 Open-Back returns to the podium like something out of Ben-Hur.
They’re decorated with a wood-like veneer design around the edge of the earcups, which looks a little more understated when compared to the LCD range, but still follows the Audeze theme of natural wooden tones.
Despite the initial surprise at the headband which consists of a relatively thin band of steel with a sprung pad in the middle, plus the departure from other Audeze designs where the yokes are concerned (the pivoted parts holding the earspeakers), we were reassured of the solid build quality when handling the headphones. Nothing about the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back goes against Audeze’s pedigree where build quality is concerned.
Even taking the design of the headphones into account, the cable is perhaps the greatest departure from previous designs. It’s ribbon-style and the connectors are more reminiscent of those you might find on a memory card, with 4 separate contacts on each side. Being 2m/6.5 feet long, an extension cable may be required for home use with full-sized amplifiers as the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back was primarily designed for portable players.
Comfort
When nestled on the head the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back is quite comfortable and does not feel heavy, but we all have different opinions where weight is concerned. At 460g (or just over a pound) they are lighter than the LCD range by a fair margin. The headband cushion is comfortable too, but when adjusting the headband back or forward there may be a tendancy for the headband’s rubber coating to pull on the hair.
Suitability for intended application
Being an open-backed portable, this EL-8 version is obviously for those who want a low profile way of taking great quality music to the office or to enjoy in quiet spaces outdoors. These headphones may run into problems in noisy environments, or if the wearer wishes to not cause a nuisance to those nearby. There is a EL-8 Closed Back for such scenarios, so take your pick!
Portability
The earcups on the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back fold down flat and so can reduce the size of the headphones in a bag or case; however the travel case supplied with them could be more substantial, amounting to a soft cloth pouch which will protect the headphones from dust.
Sound characteristics
Bass (e.g. punch, low extension):
Being a planar magentic model, bass comes naturally to the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back! It’s all in proportion of course, there’s no bloat for the sake of it. It’s emphatic when called for and never steals the show. It is tight and detailed, enhanced by harmonics within the unfettered midrange and upper frequencies.
Mids (e.g. vocals, acoustic instruments):
The mid-range can be zoomed in on and enjoyed whether there’s a lot of action or not; it is all taken in the EL-8 Open-Back’s stride. This headphone can certainly keep its head.
Nuance is not lost and every tremelo and vibrato within a vocal performance is faithfully served up along with accompanying reverb trails, making for a very convincing and moving presentation.
Treble (e.g. high hats):
The upper frequencies are a perfect complement to the rest of the range, neither too bright or too dark. This is a personal opinion of course as we all have a differing amount of sensitivity to this region, but Audeze have obviously put some thought into this and hit a perfect balance between sharpness and dullness; they sparkle without glare, and massage auditory systems in a non-drowsy way.
Soundstage & Separation
Soundstage may suffer a little from the grill on each side; the larger earcups of the LCD range give audio a good chance to breath but this should have been scaled down for the EL-8 Open Back along with the earcup size itself, with a greater chance of any otherwise reflected audio escaping.
Separation is as good as any open backed headphone in the EL-8’s price range; even bringing out details I had never conciously noticed before such as that rhythm guitar low down in the mix, or that backing singer who was multi-tracked and not the subject of a delay effect.
Music genres good for and why
Genres from classical to slow and heavy EBM were tested with the EL-8 Open-Back; the headphones are sensitive and precise enough to convey the finer touches and emotion of the Brandenburg Concherto, as well as vibrating the skull with Rhesus Factor’s ‘Commando 242’, an unremitting heavy synth track of little subtlety! The relatively neutral tuning of the Audeze EL-8 makes it a perfect jack of all trades, and a master all of them as well.
Pros:
Removable/replaceable cable
Sounds amazing
Small and light (in comparison to Audeze LCD Series)
Ver comfortable to wear
Cons:
Some may still find them just a little heavy on the head
Carry pouch not as substantial as a hard case
6 foot / 2 metre cable only
Please take a look at our video review for the Audeze EL-8 Headphones below:
Even while being used to the excellent forerunner, the RS170, the Sennheiser RS175 impresses. Time marches on of course, and Sennheiser has marched along with some even more amazing wireless headphones which have left a right impression with everyone here. We feel that to parade around the house with these headphones would be an ideal use for them. We know the drill!
Intro
Following the popular RS170 closed-back model, Sennheiser have had their work cut out. However they’ve improved functionality and have added some useful features too.
Key Features
Flawless and lossless wireless transfer allows for uninterrupted and interference-free enjoyment of TV and music. Buttons on the headphones alter volume, enable bass boost and control virtual surround. Also, switching the headphones on or off will issue the same instruction to the transmitter, for convenient operation anywhere within the transmission range. The included AAA batteries can be recharged within the headphones while sitting on the transmitter which doubles as a stylish headphone stand.
Both analogue an optical cables can be connected; a switch on the back of the transmitter selects the input source. Working on a 2.4GHz frequency, they are free of interference; even when being used with Wi-Fi signals in close proximity, for instance wireless internet routers.
First Impressions
Once out of the box, the headphones feel lighter than they appear to be, and once on the head they are very comfortable – even when glasses are also worn. The ears are fully enclosed; there’s a generous amount of space within the earcups.
The positions of the buttons are intuitively placed; altering volume and enabling bass boost/virtual surround is a doddle. The Sennheiser RS175 promises to give hours of comfortable and trouble-free operation, allowing the user to concentate on the audio.
Sound Quality
The audio quality itself is certainly comparable to many similarly priced wired headphones; with the standard unaltered settings, bass is well controlled and has plenty of impact. Midrange is more prominent than the older RS170 model, improving speech intelligability with video and harmonics with music. There is a slight danger of clutter here if a lot is going on within the audio however. Treble is crisp and clear, but without getting overbearing. Soundstage is fantastic and separation is as good as any closed back at this price level.
Bass boost is more subtle than the name of the feature implies; it gives a gentle lift to the lower end of the bass without causing any bloating or muddying. It is just as well controlled, allowing the midrange and treble space through without being overpowered.
Virtual surround is a big improvement over the older RS170 model; audio which belongs in the centre of the soundstage stays there, while instruments/voices panned towards the left/right move further out. There are two levels of virtual surround and on the higher setting the presentation is truly immersive! Perfect for TV and films.
Summary
The new Sennheiser RS175 is a far cry from the image of the crackly and noisy wireless headphones of years ago. Sennheiser have hit the right spot with the RS175, and the new range of wireless models, the RS165, RS175, RS185 and RS195 promises to dominate the high quality TV headphones market for some time to come.
The Hidizs AP100 is a great media player. I look forward to future firmware updates but in the meantime the UI is quite useable, and the unit gives a clean, uncluttered sound with a decent amount of power. This is an amazing first effort which begs the question; whatever next from Hidizs?
Pros
Built to last
Neat, useful carry case
Large clear display
Firmware can be updated
Sounds superb at this price point
Internal data/file storage
Cons
Button layout may need getting used to
Micro SD card could be easier to insert and remove
If you like your brand names to look like the first line of an optician’s eye chart, the Hidizs is certainly worth considering – the name might take some getting used to, but it’s plain to see that this player is getting some covetous glances! The Hidizs AP100 has some stiff competition in the low-cost DAP (Digital Audio Player) market, not least from FiiO’s ‘X’ range. The Hidizs AP100 appears to be a halfway house between the Fiio X3 and X5 in terms of size and cost.
Key Features
Inputs and outputs are well represented; both headphone and line-out sockets are present on the top and a separate 3.5mm coaxial in and coaxial out can be found at the base of the unit. Volume buttons are side by side on the front, and on the left side there are both the source/SRC and EQ buttons. Being capable of playback at up to 24bit/192KHz, the SRC button can select the bitrate the player works at. The EQ button scrolls through available presets, and the user can define their own preferred EQ settings.
The case is a really nice design; it is enough to protect the AP100 without bulking it out, and has an understated look much like the player itself. The case is made from a synthetic leather-like material which looks quite durable.
The battery lasts a good long while, and although no precise measurements were taken, there was a good amount of playing time between the ‘low battery’ warning and the player turning off – maybe an hour or two. My experience with the Fiio X3 gives little chance to enjoy music before the unit runs out of power – perhaps 20 minutes at most. Helpfully, the status of the battery is given as a percentage on the screen when charging the unit, so we can make an informed choice of whether to leave the unit charging or to take our chanced with what power is there.
First Impressions
The buttons on the Hidizs AP100 are lovely to press; there’s a great chunky feel to them and they are good solid buttons which will last. Someone said that they are reminiscent of Gameboy buttons – certainly the placement of the volume buttons on the AP100 give a flavour, but they are the kind of buttons that let you know they’ve been pressed – there’s no doubt involved as with touch screens and wheels. The only problem is that Hidizs saw fit to add separate buttons for ‘fast forward/rewind’ – usually the same buttons are used for track skip and forward/rewind, but not on the AP100. Also the ‘back’ button is on the right of the other navigation controls, which makes it feel like a forward/select button; this may lead to a few wrong turns for the uninitiated but it’s easy to get used to.
Sound Quality
Compared to the Fiio X3, the AP100 is a little more accurate and coolish but this is not to say that the AP100 is harsh. Listening to unyielding and brittle-sounding early 80s pop such as Duran Duran is fine on the AP100 but the X3 just gives it a bit more warmth and roundness to a presentation – the AP100 wins in terms of detail.
Compared to the Fiio X5, the sound is extremely similar; the X5 comes across as just a little smoother up top. Soundstage and imaging are similar, but with just a hint of edge to the sound on the AP100 which brings up harmonics a little more.
Added to that, the AP100 holds enough wherewithal to power some less than sprightly headphones such as the HifiMAN HE-400 very well, so the need for a separate amp is lessened.
Summary
An excellent player with a bulletproof design. Solid and reliable, the Hidizs AP100 gives a similarly solid sound and user experience. The sound quality and power gives amazing results, however less sensitive headphones may need a little help. The Beyerdynamic T1, at 600 ohms/102 dB gets up to a good level, but quieter recordings will be lacking in headroom. In our opinion, it bridges the gap between Fiio’s offerings and Astell and Kern’s AK100 but at a very favourable price.
What’s not to like about the Fidue A83? From the unassuming ‘try me’ design to the expansive sound, the A83 could take us down many rabbitholes!
Pros
Instantly engaging
Lovely cable
Cons
Case is a little ungainly
Fidue is another of those makers who are peppering the market with all sorts of models at various pricepoints, and the A83 occupies their top spot just now. Despite sharing its name with a minor road up in Scotland, the Fidue A83 is warm, fast and hardly ever congested. The Fidue A83 can however bring you to ‘The Mull of Kintyre’ if you really want to go that far.
Key Features
The left and right sides are denoted by the blue and red housings of the Fidue A83; they simply beg to be worn and seem to offer a fun experience just by looks alone. Supplied tips are what can be expected for a model in this price category; there’s a good range along with the nearly ubiquitous free Comply foam tips, but don’t differ that much from those given away with budget models. The case is of the chunky ‘Pelican’ style and along with the hard foam winder/storage insert will certainly protect the earphones. The case will not easily fit in the pocket however.
First Impressions
The clear translucent red/blue plastic of the housings is matched by the outer-facing housing part which although metallic-looking, is also plastic. However the overall impression is of a solid and well-built IEM along with the best of them. The cable is the most striking feature; it is braided and is coated to avoid too much friction. It’s nice and loose so tangles are unlikely.
Sound Quality
Far from a neutral sound, the Fidue A83 certainly packs a fun punch with deep and powerful bass when called for, adding weight beneath kick drums and basslines, but steering well clear of midrange bleed. There’s no more bass than dictated by the music. Midrange is clear with a lush hint; space is well preserved and harmonics make instruments shine. Up top, the Fidue A83 is not as rolled off as most universal IEMs but there is no hint of anything which might cause fatigue in the ear. Separation and imaging are very good for an in-ear too.
The A83 is amazingly faithful to your chosen genre; trying these with some 1970s production music, the dynamic compression used is beautifully rendered and makes the bass and midrange really work together. Conversley, with some clean and clear Level 42 from the 1980s, the presentation is as fresh and clean as a new pin. The A83 takes what’s good, and makes it even better.
Summary
The Fidue A83 really are as fun as they look; but don’t let this kid you into thinking they cannot be serious too. Think perhaps of looking in a mirror and actually seeing the person you imagine yourself to be – 10 years younger, spritely and in your best light – it’s the Fidue makeover!
