The Aune SR7000 closed-back headphones offer a premium listening experience, exceeding expectations in both build quality and comfort. This in-depth review delves into every aspect of the SR7000, from its luxurious packaging and meticulously crafted design to its detailed sonic performance. We'll examine the headphone's impressive construction, comfortable fit, and the unique sound signature that sets it apart from competitors. Expect a detailed exploration of its frequency response, soundstage characteristics, and overall listening experience, comparing it to other notable models in its class.This review will cover the SR7000's strengths and weaknesses, providing a balanced perspective for potential buyers. We'll analyze its comfort for extended use, assess the quality of its included cables, and examine its performance in various scenarios, including music listening and gaming. Ultimately, we aim to determine if the Aune SR7000's premium price tag is justified by its performance and overall value proposition compared to alternatives like the Aune AR5000 and other leading headphones in the market.
Pros And Cons
- Excellent build quality
- High-quality case and accessories included
- Very comfortable, lightweight, and fits a wide variety of head sizes
- Low microphonic noise
- Good sound isolation comparable to FiiO FH7
- Excellent treble extension
- Excellent channel matching
- Wide and immersive soundstage
- Relaxed sound signature, not offensive
- Good for gaming, especially open-world games, due to wide soundstage
- Double the price of the open-back AR5000
- Clamp force is light; may feel like it could fall off
- Bass performance may sound lacking in dynamics and punch, slightly thick
- Mid-range vocals may step back a bit for some users; less detailed than other headphones
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Unboxing and Accessories
The Aune SR7000 comes in a premium, high-quality case, exceeding expectations in terms of packaging and presentation. The case is well-designed, featuring a molded interior to securely hold the headphones and accessories. A small, velour-lined pocket is included for storing the cables.
Two cables are provided: a standard unbalanced cable with a 1/4-inch (6.3mm) adapter and a balanced 4.4mm pentaconn cable. Both cables are surprisingly long and exhibit minimal microphonics, a testament to Aune's attention to detail. The inclusion of both balanced and unbalanced options caters to a wider range of audio setups.
Build Quality and Comfort
The SR7000 boasts an exceptional build. Its robust chassis mirrors the quality of the Aune AR5000, with a solid hinge and minimal flex. The design provides excellent articulation, ensuring a comfortable fit for a wide range of head sizes.
The headband’s adjustable sizing system allows for a personalized fit. Despite the light clamp force, the headphones remain secure during movement. While the clamp force is lighter than many closed-back headphones, it’s still comfortable and doesn't feel too loose.
Sound Quality: Objective Measurements
Measurements were taken using a GRAS 43AG KEMAR. The SR7000's frequency response shows a well-balanced profile with a slight bass shelf. Compared to the AR5000, the SR7000 exhibits more emphasis below 200Hz and a slight boost around 1500Hz.
The mid-range is excellent on both headphones. The SR7000 has a more controlled low treble presence compared to the AR5000, resulting in a safer and less divisive sound signature. This is a significant difference and is the main audio distinction between these two models.
Sound Quality: Subjective Impressions
The SR7000 delivers a safe, enjoyable sound. It lacks harshness or sibilance and has a pleasing, wide soundstage. The bass response is clean but less punchy or dynamic than expected in a closed-back design.
The mid-range is remarkably clean and natural. However, the recessed pinna gain region (3-5kHz) may result in less detailed and less forward vocals compared to competitors. A subtle EQ boost in this region can significantly improve the perceived detail.
Comparisons and Gaming Performance
Compared to the FIIO FH3, Aune AR5000 and Beyerdynamic DT 770, the SR7000 excels in soundstage width and immersive qualities. The AR5000 offers exceptional value at a much lower price point.
In gaming, the SR7000 shines with its wide soundstage. While not necessarily providing a competitive edge in FPS gaming, the immersive sound improves the overall enjoyment of gameplay. The comfort factor also significantly contributes to prolonged gaming sessions.
Conclusion
The Aune SR7000 is a high-quality closed-back headphone with excellent comfort and build quality. Its wide soundstage and immersive sound are its major selling points, making it ideal for gaming and listening to music with a large soundscape.
While the bass response is clean, it lacks the punch and impact of some competitors. The price is double that of the open-back Aune AR5000, making the value proposition somewhat less compelling. However, the SR7000 excels in areas where others fall short, making it a worthwhile option for those prioritizing comfort and an immersive listening experience.