Edifier STAX SPIRIT S5 Review: Next-Level Audio for Music Lovers
As a long-time fan of Edifier, I’ve always been impressed with their commitment to sound quality and innovation. Their latest offering, the STAX SPIRIT S5, continues this tradition, delivering a high-fidelity audio experience that leverages advanced technology and meticulous craftsmanship.
Introduction to STAX SPIRIT S5
The STAX SPIRIT S5 headphones are part of Edifier’s high-end sub-brand, inspired by the venerable STAX Ltd., known for their electrostatic headphones. These headphones aim to deliver an audiophile-grade listening experience, incorporating advanced planar magnetic drivers and the latest in Bluetooth technology.
Planar Magnetic Drivers
Planar magnetic drivers are a key feature of the S5, known for their superior audio fidelity and detailed sound reproduction. These drivers use a flat, thin diaphragm with embedded wires, suspended in a magnetic field. This design allows for even, piston-like movement across the entire frequency spectrum, resulting in rich detail and an impressive transient response.
EqualMass™ Wiring Technology
The S5 utilizes the 2nd generation of Edifier’s EqualMass™ wiring technology. This technology ensures a uniform driving force across the diaphragm, minimizing harmonic distortion and enhancing the stability of sound reproduction. The thin 2μm film used in these drivers contributes to the performance, bringing it close to the legendary electrostatic headphones by STAX.
Advanced Bluetooth and Audio Codecs
Equipped with Qualcomm QCC5181 Bluetooth SoCs, the S5 supports a wide range of high-definition audio codecs under the Snapdragon Sound Technology Suite. This includes aptX HD, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless, among others, ensuring high-resolution audio transmission (up to 24-bit/96kHz) with low latency. This makes the S5 not only excellent for music but also ideal for gaming and video calls.
LDAC and High-Res Audio Codecs
One of the standout features of the STAX SPIRIT S5 is its support for LDAC and LHDC codecs. These codecs are essential for enjoying high-resolution audio, as they can transmit data at a much higher bit rate compared to standard Bluetooth codecs. To take full advantage of LDAC, you need an Android smartphone and a streaming service that offers high-res audio, such as Tidal or Amazon Music HD. While Apple devices currently don’t support high-res audio wireless yet, the sound quality with an iPhone is still excellent due to the robust implementation of other supported codecs like aptX and AAC.
Auto Calibrate and Sound Fidelity
To ensure consistency and precision, every S5 headphone set undergoes Production Phase Auto Calibrate. This process guarantees that each unit delivers sound fidelity identical to the designer’s original model. This meticulous calibration is a testament to Edifier's commitment to high-quality audio performance.
Comfort and Design
The STAX SPIRIT S5 are designed with both elegance and comfort in mind. The earpads are made of genuine lambskin, providing a soft, breathable experience suitable for long listening sessions. The earcups are adorned with top-grain cowhide, adding a touch of luxury and durability. Additionally, the headphones come with cooling-mesh earpads, making them versatile for different environments.
The adjustable steel headband and upgraded pivot hinge structure ensure a snug fit and reduce mechanical noise, making these headphones comfortable to wear for extended periods. The foldable design enhances portability, making them an excellent choice for on-the-go use.
Battery Life and Connectivity
With a powerful 1500mAh battery, the S5 offers up to 80 hours of playback time, ensuring long-lasting performance. The headphones also support simultaneous connection to two Bluetooth devices, allowing seamless switching between devices like your phone and laptop. This feature is particularly handy for multitaskers.
Additional Features
The Edifier ConneX app enhances the user experience by allowing customization of controls and EQ settings. Users can select from preset EQs or create their own, tailoring the sound profile to their preferences. The headphones also include dual-mic noise reduction with Qualcomm aptX Voice technology, ensuring clear and crisp call quality.
Conclusion
The Edifier STAX SPIRIT S5 headphones are a remarkable addition to the high-fidelity audio market. They combine the best of planar magnetic technology with modern Bluetooth capabilities, offering an exceptional listening experience. Whether you're an audiophile, gamer, or someone who appreciates high-quality audio, the S5 delivers on all fronts. Their comfort, battery life, and design make them a standout choice for anyone looking to invest in premium headphones. The sound quality is simply remarkable. The best you can get at this price range. Impressive!
Jerome
