In-ear headphones sony xba a3. Review xba-a3: new generation of hybrid headphones from sony. Appearance and ease of use

The rating presents headphones from one of the best series presented by Sony– XBA. detailed information about sound quality, size, configuration and features of use - everything you need to make a purchasing decision.

Models presented:

Sony XBA-A3

Sony XBA-A3 headphones are an improved version of the popular XBA-H3 model. The device pleases with its compact size, the practical matte body does not leave marks,

Hybrid headphones Sony XBA-A3 delight with excellent sound. Rich bass complements high and mid frequencies well, excellent detail, deep and clear vocals - you can make out every detail of the sound.

Moreover, the model is optimized for working with high-definition compositions.

• Markings on headphones and cable. A convenient solution that allows you to avoid confusing your headphones;
• Memory foam material for earhooks. Provides reliable fixation of the device;
• 7 types of attachments - the owner of the headset can easily choose the best option, taking into account personal characteristics.

• Despite the compactness of the model, the headphones protrude slightly from the ears, which causes discomfort when worn under a hat;
• A non-standard fit may become an advantage in the future, but initially you will have to get used to it.

Sony XBA-A1

Sony XBA-A1 hybrid headphones traditionally, like all products of this brand, delight with their original design. They are quite simple, but this is where the true chic lies. Small in size and comfortable fit, which is noticeable in comparison with previous models presented in the XBA line.

The dynamic driver provides rich bass, as well as excellent transmission of high frequencies, while the mids are consistently smooth. The armature driver is responsible for excellent sound detail, ensuring sound clarity. This model is optimal for all musical genres, from classical to electronic music. You can feel each instrument – ​​and the higher the quality of the selected track, the better the level of detail.

• Noise insulation. This feature is implemented very well high level– you can enjoy exclusively tracks played through headphones;
• Ear pads with memory effect, which ensures a complete fit to the ears, increasing the comfort of using the device;
• Practical matte surface that looks stylish and expensive.

• Hard cable. In part, this is an advantage of the device, because it is distinguished by excellent durability, but on the other hand, friction on clothing, the resulting microphone effect, and constantly tangled wires cause inconvenience.

Sony XBA-2

Sony XBA-A2 headphones, like other models in this series, are distinguished by excellent build quality and pleasant colors.

The direct fit of the headphones allows you to fully enjoy the sound. In addition, it is worth noting excellent noise insulation performance, as well as ear pads made of memory foam material. The combination of emitters provided excellent sound - the bass is rich in saturation, but there is no hum. The sound is spacious, the middle is well defined. The high frequencies are not so bright, but there are no wheezing or sharp changes even when listening at maximum volume.

• Excellent package. Case, 7 options of attachments, wire frame;
• The durable noodle cable does not tangle.

• Weak HF. This model will appeal to lovers of good bass, but the manufacturer should still work on the upper frequencies.

Sony XBA-Z5

In appearance, the Sony XBA-Z5 headphones have much in common with the model that was released earlier (XBA-A3): the same rectangular groove, original fit, comfortable and reliable fit. A significant advantage is the metal housing.

The combination of reinforcement and dynamic drivers ensures excellent transmission of low and high frequencies, as well as excellent tonal balance.

If you want to choose headphones with bright sound, pleasing not only with surround sound, but also powerful bass, as well as an excellent balance of frequencies. The sound is soft and stunningly clear - no extraneous noise and synthetic sound. This model is rightfully considered one of the best options ultimatum hybrid headphones.

• Light weight and excellent strength - this was achieved through the use of magnesium alloy;
• Excellent equipment is a significant plus of this series. The kit includes a case, replacement tips and detachable cables;
• Good sound even with a standard connection to a smartphone.

• Large body, shallow fit - the device does not cause discomfort during operation, but it is not very comfortable to wear under a hat, and the product may not be suitable for those who wear glasses.

Sony XBA-100

Small, comfortable Sony XBA-100 headphones are durable and reliable, thanks to the brass housing. The build quality does not cause the slightest criticism - the cord is a convenient length, everything is carefully thought out down to the smallest detail.

These headphones are chosen by those who prefer bright and rich sound. The bass is not as pronounced as in most other models in this series, but the frequency balance is perfectly maintained. Good sound insulation ensures clean and surround sound– while listening, you can enjoy the detailed sound. Important role the sound source is playing - the better it is, the more pleasant it will be to enjoy listening.

• The headphones are practically not felt in the ears, thanks to the comfortable fit and light weight;
• Original design - the model looks interesting and stylish, but at the same time the design is well thought out and does not cause discomfort to the owner.

• The wire gets tangled easily, which causes some inconvenience during operation of the device.

Sony XBA-C10

The variety of shades will appeal to those who choose Sony XBA-C10 headphones - you can easily choose the desired color. The design is very simple and laconic - a neat model without unnecessary details, excellent quality.

The headphones are great for all musical genres, the volume reserve is amazing - and it will definitely be more than enough. Soft surround sound, no noise or dull notes in the high frequencies, emphasis is placed on the mid and high frequencies. Considering the affordable price, this option is optimal - the sound is more than decent.

• Comfortable fit thanks to the use of a special loop and tight fixation in the ear;
• Miniature size and light weight - in this model you can play sports, travel, go to public transport. You don't feel the slightest discomfort even after wearing it for a long time.

• The wire is quite strong, but gets tangled very easily; its length is increased and is 1.2 meters.

Sony XBA-4

Sony XBA-A4 headphones, despite their rather large size, are lightweight. The design is made of durable plastic.

The sound is quite bright - this is not a choice for those who prefer a smooth sound. The bass, like the high frequencies, is very saturated - not everyone will like it. But we managed to get remarkable detail, and the sound was quite voluminous. This option is optimal for lovers of the classics, but there is no clear solution to this issue - some are looking for just such a sound option, but for others it will seem excessive.

• The noodle cable is strong enough, does not get tangled, and does not rub when using the device;
• Excellent sound insulation - even when traveling on the subway and public transport, no extraneous noise distracts you.

• Due to the rather large size of the device, headphones are not suitable for everyone - it all depends on the structure of the auricle.

When purchasing Sony XBA headphones, you will not be disappointed with the choice. What to choose: stunning monitor sound Sony XBA-A1, stylish design and the variety of colors of the Sony XBA-2, or the miniature and compact Sony XBA-100 headphones? The variety of options presented in the XBA series will satisfy even the most demanding buyer.

The XBA-A3 differs from its competitors by the presence of three different emitters at once. Moreover, each one works on a separate frequency range. This is the reason High Quality device sound. The headphones use reinforcement drivers; a number of unique technical solutions are collected in such a small package.

Equipment

The complete package of the device makes a strong impression. At the very least, this justifies the relatively high cost.

Separately, it should be noted that the headphones are supplied with two sets of cables at once:

• for the player;
• for smartphone.

The difference lies precisely in the presence of a call answer button, as well as a microphone. This makes the model a full-fledged headset that can be used with your phone as comfortably as possible. In addition, the headphones come with a fairly convenient case. This makes it easy to carry and use the Sony XBA-A3. You can carry it without much difficulty, the cable will not get tangled.

Another point that sometimes greatly surprises all users is the presence large quantity overlays Today, you can count on one hand the models of in-ear headphones that come with such a choice. Which is undoubtedly a serious advantage.

In total there are as many as 6 pairs of different linings. They all have different sizes. This will allow any user to choose an ear pad for their own ears without any difficulty. Three sets are made of special rubber. The rest are supplied with a special filler. This allows you to choose pads of suitable softness. Exactly the equipment Sony models XBA-A3 significantly distinguishes it from its analogues.

Design, model construction

Despite the positioning of the model as compact for its class, the XBA-A3 are quite massive headphones, taking into account their in-ear type. Such a decision is forced, since significant dimensions are a consequence of the use of as many as three sound emitters in each earbud.

The headphone body is made of plastic. But at the same time its surface is rough. Therefore, even with frequent use, the presence of fingerprints will not be noticeable. There is a border in the center of the front panel. This design solution makes the model somewhat more compact – but only visually.

Most users rate the Sony XBA-A3 positively in terms of appearance. Moreover, despite the year of manufacture, some analogues from other manufacturers in this price range are significantly inferior in this sense. An example would be Master&Dynamic ME05BL. But the given model differs in the material of manufacture. The body is made of metal, while the XBA-A3 is entirely plastic.

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Comfort of use

The XBA-A3 is distinguished by its extremely unique fit. Moreover, it is much less convenient than its analogues from this price category or more expensive. For example, Dunu DN-2000 Gold is much more comfortable in this sense. But their price is at least 2 times higher. However, with enough diligence and desire, you can easily select the appropriate tips for a particular ear. Moreover, due to its ergonomics and shape, getting used to this model will not be difficult.

Compactness makes use as convenient as possible. However, others will be able to see the somewhat protruding body of the headphones. This affects use in winter. Due to size this model may simply not “make friends” with some hats. The length of both included cables is 1.2 m. Due to this, you can use the headphones as comfortably as possible.

Sound

The model is initially positioned as a device for listening to music. And it does its job perfectly. The T-shaped diaphragm design creates maximum driver linearity. This can significantly reduce distortion. The sound quality is at the highest possible level. Which completely justifies the cost. Detailing has especially increased at mid and low frequencies.

Users highlight excellent tonal balance in the midrange. There is no typical problem for tunnel headphones - closed space. The sound easily goes beyond your head even when playing low-quality music. The bass is as rich as possible, the volume is completely preserved. All this together makes it easy to compete with more modern counterparts. For example, with Philips Fidelio S2 White.

With proper equalizer settings, you can achieve the most noticeable channel separation. This will significantly emphasize the lower frequencies. The articulation of the bass will make it easy to perceive the sound as clearly as possible.

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Performance characteristics

Basic device parameters:

• full range of reproduced frequencies – 3 - 40,000 Hz;
• impedance value – 32 Ohm;
• sensitivity – 105 dB/mW;
• membrane diameter – 12 mm.

Separately, it is necessary to note the design of the connection cables. They are made of oxygen-free copper. This type metal allows you to maximize the quality of transmitted sound. The model is distinguished by the finest attention to detail. This applies to both production and sound. Some users are put off by the size and price. But 95% of all reviews about this model are positive. But everyone is amateur high-quality sound will no doubt love the Sony XBA-A3.

Sony XBA-1 long ago and Sony XBA-C10

The XBA-3 model is second in seniority only to one, the XBA-4, in the line of in-ear headphones manufactured by Sony. The names in the family are the most logical: if the name includes a three, this means that there are exactly three reinforcing emitters inside each earphone. We have already tested the Sony XBA-1 a long time ago and the Sony XBA-C10 recently. As you might guess, those devices are single-driver, “budget” by the standards of armature headphones. These cannot be called budget ones: purely psychologically, an audiophile is much more often ready to shell out 1,600 hryvnia (6,400 rubles) or so for monitor, stationary, large, in a word, headphones. But it’s quite difficult to pay such a sum for “plugs”. Let's see if they deserve it.

In the package, which is completely inconvenient and not representative, you can find the headphones themselves, 4 pairs of silicone tips and the same number with a foam-like noise insulator inside, a reel for winding the wire, a hard carrying case and a lot of all sorts of papers. The set is good, although, as for me, it lacks the “tree-shaped” nozzles that are beloved by many and traditional for reinforcing plugs. The 1.2-meter long wire is noodle-shaped, more reliable in appearance compared to the same XBA-C10, although a little thin, it seems reliable (it’s a shame if the wire in headphones for 1600 hryvnia quickly frays!) and does not get tangled as easily as a wire with a circle at the base. It bifurcates, and asymmetrically, which is convenient for wearing. The plug is “L”-shaped, standard.

The design is typical Sony, neat, nice, although personally I'm not a fan of the silver shine. However, if they were golden, it would be worse. The fit of the headphones is quite good in most ears tested, including mine, although initially you need to try to push them deep enough: the fit determines what you hear. Traditionally, the sound insulation of these reinforcement plugs is very good, you can listen to music in the subway, but on the street you need to be careful, because the surroundings fade into the background, ceasing to bother you with their annoying unnecessary sounds.

Sound. Sources included iPhone 4s, jailbroken iPod Mini second generation, Cowon C2, iRiver T10. In principle, on all players the headphones sounded very good, clear, dynamic, although the sound was somewhat dry. You need to get used to the bass; after using membrane headphones, it is not immediately noticeable, but compared to the XBA-1 it is simply magnificent. Perhaps those who love protruding bass will not recognize these headphones, but it seemed to me as it should: elastic and clear, without pressing or clogging other sounds. The mids are very good, transparent, vocals sound great. The stereo panorama is wide, all instruments can be heard individually, and there is volume. Overall the sound is very good - detailed and uncolored. Reinforcement. However, it should be recognized that headphones depend on the source and quality of the recording.

On compressed MP3 recordings, all the shortcomings stick out, and weak sources do not pump them up enough. But when connecting headphones via portable amplifier Fiio E17 and put classical music on the player in Flac format, the headphones delighted me. Let's say, without an amplifier and with MP3, the XBA-1 headphones sounded no worse: there were not enough highs and lows, but the shortcomings of the recordings and the weakness of the source did not stick out. Rock, including fast rock, sounded great, the headphones handled even the most dynamic places without problems. Jazz is not bad, but it lacked...Warmth or something... However, these are personal preferences. Well, the metal was a little lacking in assertiveness. In a word, for an ordinary inexpensive player without an amplifier, I would not recommend them: the effect is “from a gun at sparrows”, you will very quickly understand the imperfection of the device, the sound loses its composure (especially “from above”). It’s better to take XBA-1 if you are targeting “reinforcement”. But paired with a hi-fi player or smartphone/regular good player With an amplifier, you begin to understand why you have to pay that kind of money.

Take your listening experience to the next level.
Powerful sound for any music in audio formats high resolution with XBA-A3 in-ear headphones. Featuring a hybrid 3-way speaker system, the headphones are perfectly compatible with the PHA-3 amplifier (not included), allowing for a balanced audio connection. This means no crosstalk and cleaner sound in any music composition.

All-encompassing sound.
Hybrid 3-way speaker system with 16mm cone and dual balanced armature drivers delivers accurate, rich sound across the entire frequency range.

A new range of impressions.
Experience deep bass and unparalleled highs with an extended audio range up to 40 kHz.

Wide compatibility.
With a high sensitivity of up to 105 dB/mW, the headphones are compatible with a variety of devices from MP3 players to stereo systems.

Full spectrum of sound.
Enjoy rich bass, crisp mids and crystal clear highs with the 3-way hybrid speaker system. Wide frequency range 3 Hz–40 kHz allows for optimal sounding of high-resolution audio. You can enjoy the music the way it was created.

Reliable design.
The driver features a 16mm aluminum-coated LCD resin cone designed for stable resonance even at high frequencies.

Rich sound.
Bring bright highs and rich mids with a full-range, balanced armature driver. Linear connection and T-shape reduce distortion and maintain crisp, clear sound.

Treble sound accuracy.
The ultra-tweeter with a balanced armature delivers crystal clear, crisp high notes. The aluminum diaphragm is designed for fast response and less resonance.

Impeccable sound.
The XBA-A3 headphones include a 1.2-meter dual-layer cable with a copper core for precise high-frequency reproduction and silver plating for detailed low-frequency reproduction.

Hands-free calls.
Simply connect the included dual-layer 1.2m cable to Android phones and make or receive calls from your smartphone using the built-in microphone and remote control.

Ideal for everyone.
The XBA-A3 headphones are designed for maximum wearing comfort and feature three sets of silicone foam earbuds in different sizes for comfortable listening and minimal sound leakage.

Reliability of fastening.
Made from memory rubber, the flexible earhooks securely hold your in-ear headphones in place and provide a comfortable fit to your ear.

• Headphones Sony XBA-3
• Set of 3 pairs of noise-isolating nozzles (silicone on the outside, foam on the inside)
• Set of 4 pairs of regular silicone tips
• Wire winding frame
• Carrying case
• Documentation set

Model XBA-3 is the penultimate model in the XBA line. It turns out that we will skip XBA-2 - but we will definitely return to it some other time. So, the XBA-3 is practically the “top” among Sony in-ear headphones in terms of price, equipment, and positioning.

Price – from 7 thousand rubles. Inside each earphone there are three “reinforcement” emitters, one for each frequency range. At the same time, it’s funny to see the numbers “4-28000 Hz” in the characteristics; these are extremely interesting fantasies of marketers. But let's not dwell on this and move on to unpacking.

Packaging and accessories

In fact, the box of the XBA-3 is the same as that of junior model– XBA-1. Unpacking the headphones is inconvenient, packing them even more so. Still, for 7 thousand I would like to get something more intelligible, but no, no.

Everything is fine inside. And a bunch of attachments (4 pairs of regular and 3 pairs of silicone attachments with foam inside), and a frame for winding the wire, and a full-fledged carrying case, and a huge pack of accompanying materials.

Nothing superfluous – but nothing particularly unnecessary either. Everything is in place. Of course, I would also like purely “foam” nozzles, but “hybrids” do a pretty good job – more on that below.

Appearance and ease of use

The cases are plastic, the design is common for the entire line - silver plus darker glossy plastic. The cases, by the way, are quite massive - but this is explained by three emitters in each of them. The sound guides come out of the housings at a slight angle, all this is necessary for the headphones to sit properly in the ears - and there are no problems with this either when fitting with the wire down or with the wire up.

The wire, by the way, is asymmetrical - like other models in the XBA line, it resembles noodles that are resistant to tangling. The plug is “L”-shaped, it is larger than that of the younger model, and is made of glossy plastic in the same color scheme, as the body itself.

On the right earphone there is a red R mark and a red ring on the rim of the cambric, on the left there is a white letter L and an embossed dot. Everything is fine here; it won’t be difficult to distinguish the left earphone from the right.

On the other hand, what bad things did I find in the XBA-3 in terms of design and ergonomics? Well, except for the massive cases that don’t fit into the ear. In order not to bother with photographing myself, I found a photo of the headphones on Google:

But this is not a serious problem, the headphones stay in the ears perfectly.

Everything is good with noise insulation, you can ride the metro without problems, not to mention less noisy transport.

Sound

The headphones were tested with the Hifiman HM-801 (with Game Card amplifier) ​​and iBasso DX100 players. Used test disc Prime Test CD1.

The sound of the XBA-3 can be described in one word – “smooth”. Well, or “almost smooth”. There are also low frequencies– they don’t put pressure, they are well written. Sometimes you even want to add them. Mid frequencies are natural, without whistles (they are present on only a few compositions), vocal parts are well separated. High frequencies They do not brighten, they are as transparent as the midrange.

But it must be said that the result is a typically “rebar” sound, quite “dry”, albeit very detailed. Here we cannot say that the problem is in several emitters - it seems to me that they are connected almost perfectly. It’s just the way the music is presented – that’s all.

The stereo panorama is quite wide, and the instruments are clearly positioned, plus there is volume, although not colossal. Both small details and quick changes in volume are perfectly reproduced - here the XBA-3 show their class and do not give in even to very complex compositions.

In my opinion, these are extremely versatile headphones; the main thing is not to be afraid of the “reinforcement” sound delivery.

Compatibility

WITH Apple iPhone 4 XBA-3s played well, but after a high-quality source, one feels that the presentation of musical compositions is more schematic, as well as a more “unnatural” sound.

Competitors

On the one hand, for 7 thousand rubles (and even for the maximum price on the market of 10 thousand) it is not easy to purchase a three-driver model, especially if we are not talking about “flavored” headphones, but about more or less universal ones.

For example, Audio-Technica ATH-CK70PRO for 5 thousand rubles - here the kit is simpler, and the sound is worse than that of the XBA-3.

Creative Aurvana In-Ear 3 – approximately 5 thousand rubles, the sound is balanced, but with its drawbacks.

The closest competitor, Westone UM3x, already costs 13-14 thousand rubles. Here's an interesting thing - Sony XBA-3.

Conclusion

What can I say - I was pleasantly pleased with the headphones, both in terms of packaging, ergonomics, sound, and impressions of the music.

The price range from 7 to 10 thousand rubles only works to your advantage, dear customers - you can buy excellent three-driver headphones at a very reasonable price. For example, Sennheiser is not shy about asking for as much as 10 thousand for its IE80 with a well-deserved, but far from ideal dynamic driver - and here, even though it is original, it has high-quality and clear sound for 7 thousand. I think we should take it.

The editors thank the online store Sotmarket for providing Sony XBA-3 headphones for testing.

Ilya Tarakanov ()