Austrian Audio Hi-X55 Headphones - Over-Ear Headphones - High Comfort Slow Retention Earpads - Maximum Flexibility - 3.5mm Jack - Includes Adapter to 6.3mm - Black

Product Information

As a part of a review tour, I auditioned the Austrian Audio Hi-X55. Austrian Audio, as most will know, were a bunch of engineers that quit AKG when Harman took over the company. These two headphones use the exact same driver that deliver a flat response from 5Hz to 28kHz. Yes, flat... All the way down to 5Hz. These headphones are revolutionary and have become modern classics in their own right. Build Quality

Despite being a relative newcomer in the headphone space, Austrian Audio has been offering a wide range of products for quite a few years now. One key difference between the two headphones is their design. The Audio-Technica ATH-M60x features an on-ear design while the Austrian Audio Hi-X60 has an over-ear design. Both headphones have a bayonet system for their cables, found on the left cup. Since the Hi-X55 has a single entry system, the internal wiring from the left to the right side of the headphone is exposed. The wire is twisted in such a way that it would be difficult to accidentally snag on the wires. Materials At this price, there’s little to criticise when it comes to dynamic expression and low-frequency punch either. The Hi-X50 simply get on with the job with little fuss. They sound a little forward, and are more direct and less spacious compared with the over-ear Hi-X55, but beyond that the two share pretty much the same sonic signature, as would be expected by the similarity of design. Verdict The top end also delivers detail and clarity. With a frequency response of 5Hz-28kHz, they have extended reach in the top end beyond the natural limits of human hearing. Looking at response curves highlights a little imbalance in the upper regions, but this did not translate to any noticeable issues when listening.Items that are likely to wear out with use, such as the earpads and headband cushion, are easily replaceable, so these headphones should provide many years’ service. The cable, too, is detachable and replaceable, though we have a minor gripe here: at 3m, the cable supplied is for all practical purposes for home listening only. Austrian Audio microphones are calibrated to within one decibel of each other – add another OC18 or OC818 to record in perfect stereo harmony. This makes the pads much easier to replace than stitched-in ones. However, at the time of writing no spares are available online. Austrian Audio says it plans to offer spares in the future. The ring magnet, combined with a copper-clad aluminum coil reduces the weight of the driver and allows faster movement. This design results in a precise and fast impulse response which results in a very low THD, especially at low frequencies. For instance, listening to live recordings reveals the capabilities of the Hi-X60, living up to its name as a studio monitor. Bass guitar thumps and drum hits sound very natural as if watching live. Mids

The midrange of both monitors is also tuned similarly. However, the midrange of the ATH-M60X is lusher, revealing multiple instruments’ natural timbre. For instance, wind instruments have a bolder, rounder, and warmer sound. The same can be said with male and female vocals, although not as noticeable.

Hi-X65

That they are labelled ‘professional’ is another hint at their robust nature; like Austrian Audio’s microphones, these are designed for extended use in a working environment – and they certainly feel built to last. We would have no concerns about stashing them, in the supplied soft tote bag, in a briefcase or work bag. The ring magnet provides plenty of power and doesn’t impede airflow, while the copper-clad aluminium voice coil and lightweight but stiff membrane provide a fast response across a broad frequency range, with little unwanted resonance. Made in Austria’ with no off-the-shelf components. The hardware design and engineering are exceptional with all-metal hinges and headband bow for long-lasting stability and comfort without distraction. The luxury feel is assisted by the soft, memory-foam ear cushions. A fatigue-free experience even for long sessions. Now, we found the Hi-X15 sounded quite lively straight out of the box. This means you’ll need to be prepared to give them a decent running-in period (we’re talking a good couple of days at least) so they have a chance to calm down. Everything at once and all at the same time is simply not possible! With over 500 CDs, many of which are good for tests, it's not easy! In between, I just want to enjoy the music!