A relative newcomer on the audio scene, Austrian Audio was formed in 2017 when the AKG offices in Vienna closed. Starting with a core team of 22 former AKG personnel, they set out to create something new and respectful of the AKG heritage. In this short time, they have captured the attention of the audio industry making excellent professional microphones and headphones.
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 Headphones are the newest member of their headphone lineup. Snug in the middle of their range and delivering high-end sound, the Hi-X20 are Professional Closed-Back Over-Ear Headphones designed for audio professionals. The Hi-X20 are compact, lightweight at 255g, comfortable, and affordable. Made to be reliable and for everyday use, all the moving parts are metal. As headphones invariably endure a lot of rough treatment, this should help in the durability department.
The Hi-X20 offers a significant upgrade from the Hi-X15. Austrian Audio consciously set out to make a headphone with a smoother top end, more balanced midrange, and powerful extended bass response. They provide fast transients and minimal distortion, and most importantly, sound great. With a frequency response measuring 12Hz-24kHz, the Hi-X20 goes beyond the range of human hearing. Additionally, the 25ohm impedance ensures that these headphones can be driven efficiently from most any source.
One feature I particularly like for practical reasons is the large L and R printed on the inner area of the speakers. In general, headphones are made with the left speaker being the one that the cord is attached to, and as an engineer I often see people put headphones on backwards which can slow things down in the studio. Included is a 10-foot cable that detaches with a standard mini plug connection, and for most uses, 10-foot is a good length.
Equipped with Austrian Audio’s Hi-X Drivers, “Hi-Xcursion technology” indicates that the driver has the ability to move with a high excursion limit to deliver realistic bass. All Hi-X models feature a 44mm driver and an advanced ring magnet system, promising superior airflow, and the strongest magnetic field in its class. The ring magnet, paired with a copper-clad aluminum voice coil, reduces membrane weight for faster, more precise impulse response. The 44mm design ensures professional performance, enhanced air movement, and eliminates diaphragm wobble. The ultra-stiff membrane effectively dampens resonance for an ultra-clear and dynamic sound.
I really like the Hi-X20 for everyday use. They sound great and are very comfortable to wear for long mix sessions. For the price point they are hard to beat and swiftly have become one of my favorite headphones. $149
