Size matters. Review of Sony XBA-H3 hybrid headphones. Sony XBA headphones: stylish, comfortable, high-quality - choose the best models

Only a year has passed since the launch of Sony's line of hybrid in-ear headphones, but the company has already managed to rethink the technology and update the entire series. Before that, two models were available to Russians - XBA-H1 and XBA-H3. The new family has changed the letter 'H' to 'A' and consists of 3 models - A1, A2, A3, plus: Sony introduces the flagship model XBA-Z5. We will definitely review the entire new lineup, but today we will focus on the XBA-A3, which replaced the XBA-H3.

Design and construction

If you remember the XBA-H3 model, then you can imagine that these were quite massive - by the standards of the in-ear class - headphones. Which is not surprising if you take into account the hybrid design of the model. Inside each earphone there are three sound emitters at once: two reinforcing ones and a large dynamic one with a membrane with a diameter of 16 mm. XBA-A3 are created according to a similar 3-driver scheme, but thanks to the efforts of Sony engineers and designers, the headphones have “lost” a little and overall look less bulky. The plastic case is no longer glossy, but matte and looks more like metal, fingerprints on it are now almost invisible. A straight groove runs along the center of the front panel - this tricky solution visually makes the model more compact and neat. The left and right earphones are marked with colored circles located on the back panel - white 'L' and red 'R' respectively. The detachable cable also has a color marking at the junction with the headphones - you won't be able to mix up the channels.

The fit has not changed much, due to the design it is quite specific and slightly reminiscent of the UltimateEars TripleFi 10. Unlike, for example, Shure or Westone, whose body is placed in the auricle parallel to the head, the XBA-A3 are perpendicular and protrude from the ears. For additional fixation, memory rubber earhooks are used - about 10 centimeters of cable are wrapped in it. Despite the large size of the case, the landing of the model is not very deep, so the owners of small ears should not be scared ahead of time.

Of course, the landing of the XBA-A3 is not the most common, but new does not mean bad. If you take the time to select suitable tips (of which there are as many as 7 types in the kit), you quickly get used to the headphones, from the side you can see more of them than others, but you can completely forget about them. The only point worth noting is that due to the part of the case protruding from the ear, the headphones may not “make friends” with some winter hats (but even here everything is not so simple, the author of the review, on the contrary, received additional fixation due to the hat).

Before moving on to the most interesting, let's pay attention to the configuration of the XBA-A3. In the box, in addition to the headphones themselves, there is a convenient leather case with a zipper; in addition to the main department, it has a pair of pockets for attachments, accessories, and a replaceable cable. There are 2 cables in the kit - standard and headset. Both are 1.2 m long, flat shape with fine longitudinal ribs to resist tangles and suppress microphonic effects, angled jacks. The headset cable is single-button and compatible with smartphones on any platform (iPhone, Android, Windows Phone). As mentioned above, the set includes 7 pairs of interchangeable tips: 4 sizes of regular silicone tips and 3 sizes of special combo tips from Sony - the same silicone on the outside, but inside it is sealed with foam material. These earbuds combine the benefits of foam eartips (closer fit and noise isolation) with the durability of silicone eartips. Additional accessories include a 'coil' for adjusting the length of the cable and a clip for fixing it on clothing.

Sound

The idea of hybrid headphones is to combine the advantages of different types of drivers - the warm and powerful bass of dynamic drivers, plus the precise and detailed mids and highs characteristic of drivers with a balanced armature.

In terms of sound, Sony have made quite a lot of progress with the previous model. The XBA-H3 headphones had a very rich and lively sound with a chic stereo panorama for the class of in-ear headphones - the model could compete even with full-size headphones. What has changed in the new version of XBA-A3?

Sony has developed armature drivers with a new design that differs from competitors: the armature in them is T-shaped and connects directly to the diaphragm. According to the company, this design provides higher driver linearity and reduces distortion. Indeed, the detail and quality of medium and high frequencies have increased markedly. The XBA-H3's mids were pushed back a little, which, together with the rise in the midbass area, made vocals or, for example, guitars sound somewhat detached, plunging them into the depth of the mix. Here, the tonal balance has become smoother, voices sound clearer and more pleasant. At the same time, the basses retained their depth and volume, also adding a little detail. The sound stage and space transfer in the new product is even better, no isolation of the usual 'plugs', the sound goes beyond the head, the instruments are well separated from each other. The sound of the hybrids is multi-genre - hip-hop and dance genres are “rocking”, metal pleases with dynamics and a clear rhythm section, and symphonic music with airiness and space transfer.

As for a suitable source for headphones, the XBA-A3 shows its character and sound quality even with a smartphone. Due to the high sensitivity, there is no lack of volume. If you are not spoiled by Hi-End, perhaps this bundle will seem more than enough. And yet, this is far from the limit of the capabilities of this model, which is additionally hinted at by the Hi-Res Audio label placed on the box - Sony has optimized the headphones to play high-definition audio formats (with quality from 96 kHz / 24 bits and higher) and work with high-quality sources . For example, in conjunction with Sony Walknam ZX1 and Hi-Res recordings, the sound of the XBA-A3 really blossoms - if not with new, then with brighter colors and their combinations, and the musical canvas is drawn with more precise and fine strokes. The sound stage becomes wider, as if someone opened the windows, transparency and detail reach new heights, there is no trace of the remnants of the tightness characteristic of in-ear headphones.

We also tested the model with Sony's new flagship PHA-3 portable DAC/Amplifier (PCM support up to 384kHz/32bit, DSD 2.8MHz/5.6MHz). This device, in addition to the standard 3.5 mm jack, has a Sony balanced jack (2 x 3.5 mm). A balanced headphone cable is not included in the kit, you need to purchase it separately (for testing, we used the balanced cable from the flagship XBA-Z5 model, which will be reviewed in early December). Using a standard connection, the XBA-A3 sounds great with the PHA-3, even more subtle than the ZX1, plus more headroom. But uncompromising perfectionists, of course, should try a balanced connection with this amplifier. In this way, excellent channel separation and detail can be achieved, especially a well-balanced cable affects the return in the low frequencies, the bass becomes even more collected and articulated.

Only a year has passed since the launch of Sony's line of hybrid in-ear headphones, but the company has already managed to rethink the technology and update the entire series. Before that, two models were available to Russians - XBA-H1 and XBA-H3. The new family has changed the letter 'H' to 'A' and consists of 3 models - A1, A2, A3, plus Sony introduces the flagship model XBA-Z5. We will definitely review the entire new lineup, but today we will focus on the XBA-A3, which replaced the XBA-H3.

Design and construction

Sound

As for a suitable source for headphones, the XBA-A3 shows its character and sound quality even with a smartphone. Due to the high sensitivity, there is no lack of volume. If you are not spoiled by Hi-End, perhaps this bundle will seem more than enough. And yet, this is far from the limit of the capabilities of this model, which is additionally hinted at by the Hi-Res Audio label placed on the box - Sony has optimized the headphones for playing high-definition audio formats (with quality from 96 kHz / 24 bits and higher) and working with high-quality sources . For example, in conjunction with Sony Walknam ZX1 and Hi-Res recordings, the sound of the XBA-A3 really blossoms - if not with new, then with brighter colors and their combinations, and the musical canvas is drawn with more precise and fine strokes. The sound stage becomes wider, as if someone opened the windows, transparency and detail reach new heights, there is no trace of the remnants of the tightness characteristic of in-ear headphones.

Verdict

Everything in this model is made at a very high level, but due to its original and non-standard features, it is unlikely to become “popular”. Someone will be scared away by the dimensions, someone by landing, many - of course - by the price. But those who are not afraid of experiments are likely to fall in love with the XBA-A3 and join the camp of fans of hybrid headphones. The XBA-H3s weren't perfect in-ear headphones, and neither were the XBA-A3s. But the XBA-A3 is certainly a very successful update to the progressive line of hybrid headphones, and with this new product, Sony has come one step closer to the ideal.

The XBA-A3 differs from its competitors by the presence of three different emitters at once. And each works out a separate frequency range. This is the reason for the high sound quality of the device. The headphones use reinforcing emitters; in such a small case, a number of unique technical solutions are assembled.

Equipment

The packaging of the device makes a strong impression. At 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. What makes the model a full-fledged headset, which can be used with the phone as comfortably as possible. In addition, the headphones are equipped with a fairly comfortable case. This makes it easy to carry, use the Sony XBA-A3. You can carry it without much difficulty, the cable will not tangle.

Another point that sometimes greatly surprises all users is the presence of a large number of overlays. Today, you can count on the fingers the models of in-ear headphones, which include such a choice. Which, of course, is a serious advantage.

In total, there are as many as 6 pairs of different overlays. All of them have different sizes. That will allow any user to pick up an overlay for their own ears without any difficulty. Three sets are made of special rubber. The rest are supplied with a special filler. That allows you to choose the lining of suitable softness. It is the equipment of the Sony XBA-A3 model that significantly distinguishes it from the background of analogues.

Design, model construction

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

The body of the headphones is made of plastic. However, 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 decision makes the model somewhat more compact - but only visually.

Most users rate the Sony XBA-A3 positively in 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 the Master&Dynamic ME05BL. But the given model differs in the material of manufacture. The body is made of metal, while the XBA-A3 is an entirely plastic product.

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User comfort

The XBA-A3 features an extremely peculiar fit. Moreover, it is much less convenient than that of analogues from this price category or more expensive. For example, Dunu DN-2000 Gold is an order of magnitude more comfortable in this sense. But their price is at least 2 times more. Nevertheless, with sufficient diligence, desire, you can easily find nozzles suitable for a particular ear. Moreover, due to ergonomics and shape, getting used to this model will not be difficult.

The compactness makes the use as convenient as possible. However, others will see a somewhat protruding headphone case. This affects the use in the winter. Due to its size, this model may simply not “make friends” with some headgear. The length of both included cables is 1.2 m, due to which you can use the headphones as comfortably as possible.

Sound

The model is initially positioned as a device for listening to music. And he does his job very well. Due to the T-shaped design of the diaphragm, maximum linearity of the drivers is created. This significantly reduces distortion. The sound quality is at the highest level. Which fully justifies the cost. Particularly increased detail at medium and low frequencies.

Users notice excellent tonal balance in the mids. There is no typical problem for tunnel headphones - the isolation of space. Sound easily goes out of your head even when playing low quality music. The bass is as juicy as possible, the volume is fully preserved. All this together makes it easy to compete with more modern counterparts. For example, with Philips Fidelio S2 White.

With proper equalizer settings, it will be possible to achieve the most noticeable channel separation. This will significantly focus on the lower frequencies. Bass articulation will make it easy to perceive the sound as clearly as possible.

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Operating characteristics

The main parameters of the device:

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

Separately, it should be noted the design of cables for connection. They are made of oxygen-free type copper. This type of metal allows you to maximize the quality of the transmitted sound. The model is distinguished by the smallest study of all details. This applies to both production and sound. Some users are scared off by the dimensions, as well as the price. But 95% of all reviews about this model are positive. But all lovers of high-quality sound, without a doubt, will love the Sony XBA-A3.

The rating includes headphones of one of the best series presented by Sony - XBA. Detailed information about sound quality, dimensions, packaging and features of use - all you need to make a buying decision.

Featured Models:

Sony XBA-A3

The Sony XBA-A3 headphones are an upgraded version of the popular XBA-H3. The device pleases with its compact dimensions, no traces remain on the practical matte case,

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

Moreover, the model is optimized to work with high-definition compositions.

Marking on headphones and cable. A convenient solution that allows you not to confuse the headphones;
Memory material for the earhooks. Provides secure fixation of the device;
7 types of nozzles - 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;
Non-standard landing - in the future it can become an advantage, but initially you will have to get used to it.

Sony XBA-A1

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

The dynamic driver delivers rich bass as well as excellent high-frequency transmission, while the mids are consistently flat. The armature driver is responsible for excellent sound detail, ensuring sound purity. This model is optimal for all musical genres, from classical to electronic music. It is possible to feel each instrument - and the higher the quality of the selected track, the better the level of detail.

Noise isolation. This feature is implemented at a very high level - you can only enjoy tracks that sound in headphones;
Memory foam ear cushions that provide a full fit to the ears, increasing the comfort of using the device;
A practical matte surface that looks stylish and expensive.

Rigid cable. This is partly an advantage of the device, because it is distinguished by excellent strength, but on the other hand, friction on clothes, the resulting microphone effect, and the constantly tangled wire cause inconvenience.

Sony XBA-2

Headphones Sony XBA-A2, 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 the excellent performance of noise isolation, as well as ear cushions made of material with a memory effect. The combination of emitters provided excellent sound - the bass pleases with richness, but there is no rumble. The sound is voluminous, the middle is well expressed. The upper frequencies are not so bright, but there are no wheezing and sharp drops even when listening at maximum volume.

Excellent delivery set. Case, 7 nozzle options, wire frame;
Durable noodle cable won't tangle.

Weak RF. This model will appeal to lovers of good bass, but the manufacturer needs to 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 secure fit. A significant advantage is the metal case.

The combination of reinforcing and dynamic radiators provides excellent transmission of low and high frequencies, as well as excellent tonal balance.

If you're looking for bright-sounding headphones that deliver not only surround sound, but also powerful bass and excellent frequency balance. The sound is soft and amazingly clear - no extraneous noise and synthetic sound. This model is rightfully considered one of the best options for the ultimate 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, interchangeable nozzles 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 convenient to wear it under a hat, and the product may not be suitable for those who wear glasses.

Sony XBA-100

The small, comfortable Sony XBA-100 earphones are durable and reliable thanks to the brass housing. The build quality does not cause the slightest criticism - a convenient cord length, everything is carefully thought out 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, while the frequency balance is perfectly observed. Good noise isolation provides clear and surround sound - while listening, you can enjoy the sound detail. An important role is played by the sound source - the better it is, the more pleasant it will be to enjoy listening.

Headphones are practically not felt in the ears, thanks to a comfortable fit and low weight;
Original design - the model looks interesting and stylish, but the design is well thought out and does not cause discomfort to the owner.

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

Sony XBA-C10

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

Headphones are great for all musical genres, the volume margin is amazing - and it will definitely be more than enough. Soft surround sound, no noise and muffled notes on the high frequencies, the emphasis is on medium and high frequencies. Given the affordable price, this option is optimal - the sound is more than decent.

Comfortable fit, thanks to the use of a special eyelet and tight fixation in the ear;
Miniature size and light weight - in this model you can go in for sports, travel, travel in public transport. Not the slightest discomfort is felt even with prolonged wear.

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

Sony XBA-4

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

The sound is quite bright - this is not the choice for those who prefer a smooth sound. Bass, as well as high frequencies, is very saturated - this will not be to everyone's liking. But we managed to get a wonderful detail, the sound is quite volume. This option is optimal for lovers of the classics, but there is no unequivocal solution to this issue - someone is looking for just such a sound option, but for someone it will seem excessive.

The noodle cable is strong enough, does not get tangled, does not rub during the use of the device;
Excellent sound insulation - even during a trip to the subway and public transport, extraneous noise does not distract.

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

Buying Sony XBA headphones, you will not be disappointed with the choice. What do you prefer: the stunning monitor sound of the Sony XBA-A1, the stylish design and variety of colors of the Sony XBA-2, or the tiny and compact Sony XBA-100 headphones? The variety of options presented in the XBA series will satisfy even the most demanding customer.

Sony XBA-1 long and Sony XBA-C10

The XBA-3 model is second in seniority to only one, the XBA-4 line of reinforcing earplugs manufactured by Sony. The names in the family are the most logical: if a triple appears in the name, this means that there are exactly three reinforcing radiators inside each earphone. We 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 reinforcing headphones. You can’t call these budget ones: purely psychologically, an audiophile is more often ready to pay 1,600 hryvnias (6,400 rubles) or so for monitor, stationary, large, in a word, headphones. But to give such an amount for "gags" is quite difficult. Let's see if they deserve it.

In the package, which is completely uncomfortable and not representative, you can find the headphones themselves, 4 pairs of silicone tips and the same number with a foamy noise insulator inside, a wire reel, a hard carrying case and a lot of all sorts of papers. The kit is good, although, as for me, there are not enough “Christmas tree” nozzles, 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 it is thin, it seems reliable (it’s a shame if the wire frays quickly in headphones for 1600 hryvnia!) And it doesn’t get tangled as easily as a wire with a circle at the base. It bifurcates, and asymmetrically, which is comfortable to wear. Plug "L"-shaped, standard.

The design is typical for Sony, neat, pretty, although personally I'm not a fan of the silver sheen. However, if they were golden, it would be worse. Most of the ears we tested, including mine, fit the headphones quite well, although you should try to stuff them deep enough at first: what you hear depends on the fit. Traditionally, the sound insulation of these reinforcing plugs is very good, you can listen to music in the subway, and on the street you need to be careful, because the environment goes far into the background, ceasing to bother with its disgusting extra sounds.

Sound. Sources were iPhone 4s, jailbroken second generation iPod Mini, Cowon C2, iRiver T10. In principle, the headphones sounded very good on all players, clean, dynamic, although the sound is somewhat dry. You need to get used to the bass, after 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 be: elastic and clear, not pressing and not clogging other sounds. The middle is very good, transparent, the vocals sound great. The stereo panorama is wide, all the instruments are heard separately, there is volume. In general, the sound is very good - detailed and uncolored. Reinforcing. However, it should be recognized that headphones depend on the source and quality of the recording.

On MP3-compressed recordings, all the shortcomings stick out, and weak sources do not pump them enough. But when you connect headphones through a portable amplifier Fiio E17 and put on the player classical music in Flac format, the headphones delighted. For example, without an amplifier and with MP3, the XBA-1 headphones sounded no worse: they lacked high and low frequencies, but the shortcomings of the recordings and the weakness of the source did not stick out. Rock, including fast, sounded great, headphones processed even the most dynamic places without problems. Jazz - 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, I would not recommend them for an ordinary inexpensive player without an amplifier: the effect “from a cannon to sparrows” is obtained, you will very quickly understand the imperfection of the device, the sound loses concentration (especially “from above”). It's better to take the XBA-1 if you are aiming for "rebar". But paired with a hi-fi player or a smartphone/regular good player with an amplifier, you begin to understand why you have to pay so much money.

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