Austrian Audio HI-X65

The Hi-X65 shares its core technology with the closed-back Hi-X60, but the driver is re-tuned for an open construction, with an open backplate letting the sound breathe freely. A 5 Hz–28 kHz frequency response, 110 dB SPL/V sensitivity, and low 25 Ω impedance give a detailed, low-distortion signal that drives without a dedicated headphone amp, though professional work benefits from one. The all-metal hinge and headband construction has been tested through 30,000 bend cycles on both the headband and cable, plus a roughly 2-meter drop test onto concrete.

An open design as a tool for judging space in a mix

A common problem when working with delays and reverbs: closed-back headphones make it hard to judge how subtle reflections and reverb tails sit in the mix, since a sealed earcup artificially narrows the soundstage. The Hi-X65's open backplate lets sound disperse freely, giving an airy, spacious stereo image where depth and width nuances become audible — which is why engineers working with layered spatial effects reach for it.

Neutrality instead of flattering EQ

Many consumer headphones boost bass or treble, making a mix sound appealing but hiding real problems before release. The Hi-X65 deliberately avoids that coloration — its raw response exposes weak points in a mix rather than masking them, letting an engineer make faster, more repeatable decisions whether working in the studio, at home, or on the road.

KEY FEATURES

• Open-back, circumaural reference design
• 44mm High Excursion driver with ring magnet system
• Copper-clad aluminum voice coil reducing diaphragm mass
• Low 25 Ω impedance, easy to drive from portable devices
• Metal hinges and headband tested through 30,000 bend cycles
• Foldable design for easy storage and transport
• Replaceable memory-foam earpads and headband padding
• Two detachable cables included: 3m and 1.2m, plus a 3.5/6.3mm adapter

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

• Type: open-back, circumaural
• Driver: 44mm High Excursion
• Frequency response: 5 Hz - 28 kHz
• Sensitivity: 110 dB SPL/V
• THD (@1kHz): <0.1%
• Impedance: 25 Ω
• Cables: 3m and 1.2m (detachable), 3.5/6.3mm adapter