Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Austrian Audio Hi-X60
Technical insights into Austrian Audio’s Hi-X60 closed-back over-ear headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Closed-back design
- Circumaural
- Metal hinges and earpieces for maximum durability
- Foldable for easy transport
- Frequency range: 5 Hz to 28,000 Hz
- Sensitivity: 110 dB SPL/V
- Distortion factor (@1kHz): < 0.1%
- Impedance: 25 Ohm
- Rated power: 150 mW
- Connector: 3.5 mm including adapter to 6.3 mm
- Dimensions: 200 x 170 x 85 mm
- Weight (without cable): 0.320 kg
- Includes detachable cables in 3 m and 1.2 m lengths
Studio Log
| Available since | December 2021 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 532731 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Closed Back |
| Impedance | 25 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 5 Hz – 28000 Hz |
| Adaptor | Yes |
| Replaceable Cable | Yes |
| Colour | Black |
| Max. SPL | 96 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Jack, mini-jack |
| Weight | 320 g |
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Field Photography
QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction
The Austrian Audio Hi-X60 offers a closed-back, over-ear design aimed at professional studio monitoring, tracking and mixing. Launched in December 2021 at £249, it targets users seeking a neutral yet detailed listening experience without the sound leakage associated with open-back designs. Austrian Audio, founded by ex-AKG engineers, brings legacy expertise to the construction and tuning of these headphones.
Design and Build Quality
Constructed largely from aluminium and metal, the Hi-X60 boasts a solid build that feels premium in hand and on head. Metal hinges and earpieces promise durability, supporting daily studio rigours. At 320 grams, the headphones are somewhat weighty but manage comfort well through well-padded, circumaural earcups lined with memory foam wrapped in faux leather. The headband’s design slightly leans forward, ensuring a secure fit without excess pressure.
Both 3 metre and 1.2 metre detachable cables are included, with a 3.5 mm jack plus a 6.3 mm adapter, enhancing flexibility across devices. Cable noise transmission is minimal, aiding unvaried performance during movement. The foldable structure facilitates portability, though some users note the assembly’s plastic components near the metal hinges as points of weakness prone to damage under strain. Overall, the build quality exceeds expectations at this price, though the lack of a carrying case is a minor omission.
Comfort
Comfort is a highlight of the Hi-X60. The earcups snugly envelop the ears without causing heat build-up or discomfort during extended sessions, even with glasses. Despite its weight, users report the headphones become nearly forgettable after a short period. Adjustability suits medium to large head sizes, but those with larger head circumferences should test fit as the headband’s maximum extension might be limiting.
Sound Performance
The headphones deliver a frequency range extending from 5 Hz to 28,000 Hz. Rated sensitivity at 110 dB SPL/V paired with 25 Ohm impedance ensures easy driving from mobile devices or audio interfaces without requiring amplification.
The Hi-X60 sound signature is notably neutral and balanced for a closed-back model. Bass reproduction is tight and controlled without excessive emphasis, suitable for monitoring rather than bass-heavy enjoyment. Midrange is detailed and lucid, facilitating critical mixing decisions. Some listeners observe a slight dip around 2 kHz, which can render vocals somewhat thin but contributes to an expansive stereo image and reduced fatigue during long listening periods.
The treble is crisp and clear, though listeners accustomed to warmer headphones might find it initially sharp. Instrument separation is excellent with spatial positioning that straddles the line between traditional closed and open-back cues, delivering a surprisingly wide soundstage. Distortion remains below 0.1% at 1 kHz, confirming precise reproduction.
Comparative Notes
- Beyerdynamic DT700 Pro X: Less neutral with a brighter treble and slightly enhanced bass, the DT700 Pro X offers a different signature that may appeal to casual listeners but lacks the Hi-X60’s analytical clarity.
- Hi-X55: The preceding model tends to overemphasise mids, making distorted guitar tones overly nasal compared to the Hi-X60’s improved tuning.
- Sennheiser HD650: More bass-rich and warmer; the Hi-X60 leans toward precision with less colouration, preferred for studio monitoring rather than leisure listening.
Isolation and Practical Use
The closed-back design provides strong passive noise isolation in both directions. This proves essential during recording to prevent bleed from monitors or instruments affecting microphone pickups. The earcup seals contribute to a well-contained listening environment, supporting focused work. Users find the Hi-X60 particularly effective for instrument tracking, mixing electronic and acoustic content, and even live front-of-house monitoring.
Limitations
Despite its strengths, a few drawbacks surface from user feedback. The plastic components within the adjustment mechanism have caused failures in some cases, detracting from long-term reliability. The ear pads’ faux leather material may deteriorate over time under heavy use, with replacement parts not always cost-effective. While the headphones fold for transport, some users find this feature less necessary in fixed studio settings. Additionally, the jack connector’s screw-in mechanism, while secure, is prone to loosening during unexpected movement, risking momentary signal loss.
Conclusion
The Austrian Audio Hi-X60 is a well-executed closed-back headphone, tailor-made for professional and home studio environments seeking neutral, detailed sound with excellent build quality. Its precise frequency response, comfort during hours-long sessions, and effective isolation make it particularly attractive to musicians, engineers and audiophiles requiring dependable monitoring solutions. Although there are minor concerns regarding certain plastic parts and accessories, its performance-to-price ratio remains excellent.
Austrians Audio’s combination of AKG heritage and contemporary design principles produces a headphone that holds its own against established rivals and sets a new benchmark for sub-£300 closed-back studio headphones.
