Edifier's new Stax Spirit S5 wireless headphones aim to deliver audiophile-quality sound in a portable package, but come with some notable tradeoffs at their $499 price point.
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| The Edifier Stax Spirit S5 are some of the best wireless headphones you'll ever hear, designed for audiophiles in a modern package |
High-End Audio Technology
The Stax Spirit S5 utilize planar magnetic drivers, a technology typically found in high-end wired headphones. This allows them to produce a wide frequency response from 10Hz to 40kHz with exceptional detail and transient response. The headphones support a range of high-resolution Bluetooth codecs including aptX Lossless, LDAC, and LHDC.
Edifier has implemented some unique technologies to optimize the planar magnetic drivers:
- EqualMass wiring for uniform driving force across the diaphragm
- Automatic calibration during manufacturing to match prototype sound quality
- 94dB sensitivity and claimed near-zero harmonic distortion
Premium Build with Some Quirks
The headphones feature premium materials like lambskin earpads, top-grain leather, and a steel headband. However, some users may find the large earcups and plastic components detract from the overall aesthetic. At 347 grams, they're also on the heavier side for portable headphones.
Impressive Battery Life
With a rated 80 hours of playback time, the Stax Spirit S5 offer exceptional battery life that far surpasses most wireless headphones. Fast charging provides 11 hours of use from just a 10 minute charge.
Sound Quality Shines, But Environment Matters
In ideal listening conditions, the Stax Spirit S5 deliver outstanding audio quality with precise imaging, expansive soundstage, and the ability to handle complex tracks with ease. The default tuning emphasizes mids and treble, but bass response can be boosted via EQ.
However, the lack of active noise cancellation and mediocre passive isolation means external noise can easily intrude in louder environments. This may force users to raise the volume to potentially unsafe levels.
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| The Edifier Stax Spirit S5 headphones sit snuggly over the ears and are comfortable enough for long listening sessions, ideal for audiophiles |
Feature Set and App
The headphones offer Bluetooth multipoint connectivity, though not when using LDAC/LHDC codecs. Edifier's Connex app provides basic EQ adjustment, sound presets, and codec options. A low-latency game mode is available but may not fully eliminate audio lag.
Value Proposition
At $499, the Edifier Stax Spirit S5 face stiff competition from popular models like the Sony WH-1000XM5 ($399) and Sonos Ace ($449). While the Edifier may have a slight edge in pure audio quality, the lack of ANC and some refinement issues make them a tougher sell for general consumers.
Verdict
The Edifier Stax Spirit S5 deliver exceptional sound quality for discerning listeners who primarily use headphones in quiet environments. However, the high price tag and lack of noise cancellation limit their appeal compared to more versatile competitors. Audiophiles seeking wireless planar magnetic headphones will find a lot to love, but more casual users may be better served by other options.
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| The Edifier Stax Spirit S5 Wireless Planar Magnetic Headphones blend elegance with high-quality sound, catering to discerning listeners |