In this review, I’ll be listening to, whether it was pop, rock, classical, or electronic music, these headphones delivered an incredible sound quality that made me feel like I could enjoy any genre of music I listened to sounded good. However, the Hi-X20 was intended them to hear. The clarity and accuracy were as enjoyable as the Austrian Audio Hi-X20.
I’m thrilled about Austrian Audio’s latest venture! Instead of a new premium headphone model, they’ve crafted the Hi-X20, promising the exceptional sound quality that Austrian Audio is renowned for, all at a price point making high-end audio more attainable. The Hi-X20 is essentially an upgraded version of the Hi-X15, and comparing them side by side makes the difference quite apparent. However, what sets the Hi-X20 apart is its enhanced tuning for an even better value for your money.
Over the past three weeks, I’ve had ample opportunity to evaluate these headphones, using them for gaming, music, and professional audio mixing. Frankly, they surpassed my expectations remarkably.
Compared to its larger counterpart, the Hi-X65, which I previously tested, I initially had my doubts due to its lower cost. However, upon listening to a single track using these headphones, all my reservations were dispelled.
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 Design and First Impressions
The Hi-X20 from Austrian Audio sports a streamlined, understated appearance, setting it apart amidst the multitude of black, over-ear headphones with their more ostentatious designs. Yet, its minimalistic style doesn’t diminish its unique charm and individuality.
At only $149, you might think these headphones could feel budget-grade. However, despite not being in the same league as the pricey Hi-X65, they exude an impressive sense of premium quality when held and worn. I wouldn’t advise treating them roughly, but given their robust construction, if you’re okay with a wired connection, I would confidently suggest them for daily use, particularly because they can be folded down into a compact size that fits snugly in your backpack.
When considering high-end headphones like the Hi-X20, the main obstacle many people face is not just the cost, but also the ample power required to operate them effectively. However, the Hi-X20 addresses the price issue quite well, but what truly sets it apart is its low impedance of only 25Ω. This makes these headphones exceptionally easy to power and get optimal performance from. For reference, Apple Earpods, which were included with all Apple devices, have an impedance of 23Ω. Even a device like the Nintendo Switch, known for its modest power output, can handle them effortlessly.
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 Comfort
In my assessment of the Hi-X65, I was genuinely amazed by their comfort level. Given that the Hi-X20 shares a similar earcup design, it’s reasonable to assume that these headphones will offer the same level of comfort. Throughout the testing phase, I found myself wearing them for extended periods without any discomfort or ear strain whatsoever.
Unlike the Hi-X65, the Hi-X20 lacks an internal mechanism for size adjustment, leaving the notches exposed. This could potentially snag your hair when making size adjustments while wearing the headphones. However, during my testing phase, I didn’t encounter this issue, but if you have curly or long hair, you might want to be more cautious about this.
I’ve grown fond of the velour earpad style on over-ear headphones generally, but I don’t mind if they’re made of leatherette instead. Surprisingly comfortable, these earcups keep my ears cool and comfy even with the closed-back design.
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 Audio Performance
In my opinion, top-tier headphones generally belong to two main groups: one is where they are extremely precise, yet lack distinct personality, such as the Sennheiser HD600. The other group consists of headphones that offer precision while also adding a unique flavor to their sound, setting them apart from others. The Hi-X20 leans more towards the latter category, but I can confidently use it for professional work knowing it provides an accurate sound profile.
Gaming Audio Performance
I strongly advocate for enhancing the sound quality during your gaming sessions, and the Hi-X20 is an excellent choice if you’re looking to elevate your audio without overspending. The low impedance means it’s compatible with a variety of platforms, be it a PC or a console, making it a versatile option for all your gaming needs. Thanks for considering this upgrade!
During my trial phase, I revisited the game titled “Sable” once more. Although it’s not a brand-new release, its sound design is something I hold dear, and these headphones did an exceptional job of recreating it. The blend of background sounds and the game’s music never clashed, and the clarity was impressive. Wearing these headphones completely drew me into the game.
As I was left spellbound by the immersive experience of Sable through my headphones, I felt compelled to test the limits of my Hi-X20 headphones with a more action-packed game, RoboQuest. I was curious if they could handle the intense low-end without muddying the sound quality. To my delight, the Hi-X20 handled it flawlessly, delivering deep, impactful bass from explosions and gunshots, while maintaining exceptional clarity in the midrange and preserving the crisp high-end details.
In addition to evaluating the frequency response, I also enjoy assessing the ability to distinguish separate sounds and determine their origin for an enhanced spatial audio experience. This is crucial in competitive games as well as story-driven ones where immersion is key. Typically, I opt for open-back headphones due to their expansive soundstage, but the Hi-X20 performed exceptionally well in terms of separation and localization. I found it effortless to identify sounds coming from different directions, even those originating from behind or in front of me.
For an incredibly engaging surround sound environment while gaming, it’s recommended you explore headsets compatible with spatial audio technology, such as these.
Music Audio Performance
Over the past three weeks, gaming consumed the largest portion of my time. However, when I wasn’t engrossed in gaming or fine-tuning audio mixes, I was enjoying music using these headphones. These headphones may not be the most visually impressive or high-end models I’ve tested with Game Rant, but they have quickly become one of my top favorites.
Regardless of what I was listening to, I just wanted to keep listening to it through the Hi-X20. Headphone technology is getting to a point where, even at this price point, most headphones can offer an accurate listening experience that will deliver songs the way artists intended you to listen to them, but very few can offer a listening experience as fun as the Hi-X20.
Although these low frequencies may not be as potent compared to other alternatives, they nonetheless provide a bass sensation that you can feel more than hear. This could not be the perfect scenario for die-hard bass enthusiasts, but it ensures a fairly balanced bass response without making it dominant over the mid and high tones, resulting in an extremely pleasurable listening experience.
The Droid Invasion scene from Star Wars Episode I: The Phantom Menace serves as an apt illustration of what I’m discussing regarding these headphones. Initially, the drums may seem underpowered, but they are distinctly felt in your ears. Moreover, the cymbal crashes are remarkably clear and resonant. Even when the full orchestra joins in, there’s no sense of competing sounds. Instead, each element harmoniously occupies its designated space within the mix, allowing you to discern individual instruments with ease.
Is The Austrian Audio Hi-X20 Right For You?
The Hi-X20 is right for you
If you’re on the hunt for top-quality, durable headphones at a budget-friendly price, the Hi-X20 could be just what you need. Priced at only $149, it’s tough to find a better deal considering the value you receive. Whether you need them for gaming, music, professional audio work, or a mix of everything, these headphones are a fantastic entry point into premium audio without breaking the bank on the usual high costs associated with it.
The Hi-X20 is not right for you
If you are looking for a more premium pair of headphones or prefer an open-back design, the Hi-X20 might not be the best option for you. Luckily, Austrian Audio has the premium and open-back options covered by the Hi-X65. If you want a pair of open-back headphones for a similar price point, you may want to check out the OneOdio Monitor 80. However, it is worth mentioning that you won’t get the same audio quality that the Hi-X20 delivers.
| Austrian Audio Hi-X65 | More Premium Sound and Open-Back Design | Check It Out Here! |
| OneOdio Monitor 80 | Budget Open-Back Alternative | Check It Out Here! |
| Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO | Similar performance but Different Style Earcups | Check It Out Here! |
FAQ
Q: Where did the AKG engineers go?
Following AKG’s closure of its Austrian factory in 2017, a group of 22 former AKG staff members chose to establish Austrian Audio as a means to preserve the heritage of the original AKG brand and continue its operations within Austria.
Q: Where are Austrian audio headphones made?
Austrian Audio was established with a mission to uphold the tradition of ‘Crafted in Austria,’ hence, the majority of their headphones, along with many other products, continue to be produced within the country itself.
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2024-11-22 16:05