Tiny in-ear headphones boast a massive soundstage
The AKG K323 XS in-ear headphones (MSRP $59.95) are as portable and sleek as they come. Pop them in and treat yourself: The XS produces huge sound marked with prominent bass, supportive mids, and very healthy highs.
Moreover, these are some of the best passive isolators we've ever tested, and we didn't measure even a speck of audible distortion. High-five, AKG: These things are top-to-bottom winners.
THE DESIGN
These AKGs are tiny, good-looking, and comfortable enough for most. We tested the white version, but they also ship in blue, orange, yellow, green, and the list goes on. Aesthetics aside, if you're searching for the perfect travel companion, you'll want to give these a close look. In fact, the XS are a friend to commuters and athletes alike.
The form factor is just perfect for multitasking in general: The Android-ready version packs a one-button universal remote, and there's also a three-button variant for iOS. The XS's teeny form factor, featherweight frame, and small carry case are additional on-the-go perks.
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The cable is simple, but of decent quality. It's shorter than most cords — just 3.5-feet long — which makes it very manageable for busy listeners. There could be better reinforcements around the jack and earpieces, though, so definitely keep these AKGs wrapped up in their carrying case for safekeeping.
Users get four different ear pieces, too: extra small, small, medium, and large. Take note, Goldilocks.
THE AUDIO
Basically, the XS in-ears do everything right. The headphones' time in our lab painted a portrait of a straight-A student.
THE SCIENCE:See how these headphones performed in our lab tests
Thanks to moderate bass notes and very prominent middle and high notes, music sounds both full and balanced. From classical, to jazz, to hip hop, every genre benefits from this even-handed sound quality. Listeners will enjoy big, thumping bass that doesn't obscure subtler instruments like violin and piano.
These tiny in-ears aced distortion tests, balanced volume properly in the left and right speakers, and effectively isolated the soundstage. That last point is particularly notable: The amount of outside noise that these things block is comparable to some sets of active noise cancelers — extremely impressive.
THE BOTTOM LINE
The K323 XS shines, even in a crowded market. It's hard to pick which glowing attribute to praise first: The massive, well-balanced soundstage? The distortion-free listening experience? The very reasonable $59 price tag? The great isolation? The tiny, portable design? These AKGs are simply aces, and online sale prices of around $40 kick everything up another notch.
Users who are searching for ultimate durability, removable cables, or piles of flashy extras may want to keep shopping, but everyone else is likely to be wowed by 'phones that can produce a soundstage this big and balanced at such a low price.