Aune AR5000 MK2
Aune fixed the hinge and gave its $339 open-back more bass, more air and a bigger stage — and in doing so split listeners on the treble.
31 sources2 divided topics
Read the overreview A wider view of audio gear
The reviews,
reviewed.
What reviewers agree on.
Where they disagree. What matters to you.
Latest reviews
Browse all reviews
HIFIMAN HE1000 Stealth
A former $2,999 flagship at $949 — agreed on its detail, imaging and bass, and described three different ways everywhere else.
42 sources4 divided topics
ZiiGaat x Fresh Reviews Arete
Built for footsteps: reviewers agree on the imaging, owners argue about the music — and about how long the drivers last.
48 sources6 divided topics
Kali Audio IN-5
A three-way coaxial monitor in a five-inch box — near-unanimous on imaging and value, split on its lower midrange.
30 sources2 divided topics
RME ADI-2 Pro FS R
A studio converter that doubles as a reference DAC and headphone amp — argued over not for how it measures, but for how hot it runs and whether you need half of it.
25 sources5 divided topics
Cre8audio Programm
A $350 twelve-track sequencer for small hybrid rigs — agreed on its value, size and generative tricks, split on whether its screenless, alt-key workflow ever stops being a puzzle, on how readable its white-on-white grid is, and on how rough its launch firmware was.
20 sources3 divided topics
The dictionary
Know what you’re hearing.
Warm
A boost in the bass and lower mids that gives music a rich, cozy, easy-on-the-ears character.
Soundstage
The perceived three-dimensional space of a recording — how wide, deep, and tall the sound appears.
Bright
An emphasis on the upper midrange and treble — vivid, clear, and sometimes sharp.
Neutral
An even-handed sound with no part of the spectrum pushed forward or held back — balanced and reference-like.