Наушники — Austrian Audio Hi-X15

The Hi-X15 is a closed-back, over-ear wired headphone from Austrian Audio, part of the company's Hi-X family of headphones. Released in December 2021 at a US price of USD 119, it was introduced alongside the Bluetooth Hi-X25BT, while the wider range also includes the Hi-X55 and the open-back Hi-X65.

Key specs that matter

Austrian Audio fits a 44 mm dynamic driver of its own High Excursion type in each cup, built around a ring magnet system and a copper-clad aluminium voice coil. The quoted frequency range runs from 12 Hz to 24 kHz. Sensitivity is 113 dB SPL per volt and impedance is 25 ohm. The maximum input power is 150 mW. The weight without cable is 225 g. Outer dimensions are 250 x 170 x 80 mm, a carry pouch comes in the box, and the 1.4 m detachable cable ends in a 3.5 mm plug.

Engineering and use context

Austrian Audio explains that its High Excursion driver uses a lighter membrane for a faster impulse response and a very stiff diaphragm that damps its own resonances. The headband is plastic over an internal spring steel band, wrapped in foam and leatherette, and it connects to red anodised metal yokes that swivel both horizontally and vertically. All hinges are metal to resist wear at the fold points, and the cups both fold and rotate so the set packs flat. The earcups carry a smooth silver metallic finish. Pads and headband cushion use slow-retention memory foam, and the pads are held by screws on the front baffle, so they can be removed and replaced. At the cup end the cable plugs into a locking 2.5 mm socket, so a damaged lead is replaced on its own without returning the headphone for repair. The input is analogue only, with no wireless link or onboard electronics.

Pairing

The low impedance and high voltage sensitivity mean a phone, a laptop, a portable player or an audio interface headphone jack can drive the Hi-X15 to high levels without a separate amplifier. As a closed-back design it keeps outside noise out and cue audio in, which suits commuting, shared rooms and recording sessions where a nearby microphone should not pick up the headphone feed.

Alternatives

The Austrian Audio Hi-X20 is a closed-back studio headphone that also uses a ring magnet driver, supplied with a longer 3 m cable and a 6.3 mm adapter.