Edifier Stax Spirit S5

Notably detailed, insightful and coherent sound ; Impressive specification (with one exception) ; Good standard of build and finish

A little hint of edginess to treble sounds ; Not suitable for vegetarians or vegans ; No active noise-cancellation

Remarkably acute and forthright sound quality, great quality of construction, and some cutting-edge specification carry the Edifier Stax Spirit S5 quite a long way – but those who crave isolation from the noise of the outside world won't be quite so...

Expansive, engaging sound that improves on Stax S3 ; Redesigned headband even more comfortable ; Heroic battery life

Overall build and accessories not up there with similarly-priced rivals ; Still no active noise cancellation ; Maximum volume a little low

These comfy planar magnetic on-ears don’t have price on their side like their predecessors. The Stax Spirit S5 is long-lasting, but lacks ANC and its build can’t match premium rivals.

Excellent audio quality ; Extensive codec support ; Staggering battery life ; Versatile connectivity

Limited noise isolation ; Uninspired design ; Expensive

Expansive, engaging sound that improves on Stax S3 ; Redesigned headband even more comfortable ; Heroic battery life

Overall build and accessories not up there with similarly-priced rivals ; Still no active noise cancellation ; Maximum volume a little low

These comfy planar magnetic on-ears don’t have price on their side like their predecessors. The Stax Spirit S5 is long-lasting, but lacks ANC and its build can’t match premium rivals.