XBA-A3 review: Sony's new generation of hybrid headphones. Size matters. Review of hybrid headphones Sony XBA-H3 In-ear headphones sony xba a3 review

Take your listening experience to the next level.
Bring powerful high-resolution audio to any music with the 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 of 3 Hz–40 kHz allows you to get optimal sound from 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 for 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 equipment

In fact, the box of the XBA-3 is the same as that of the younger model - the 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 fit 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 case 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. The test disk used was 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 do not press, they are well defined. 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 are not bright, 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 rapid volume changes 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

The XBA-3 played well with the Apple iPhone 4, 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 market price 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 own shortcomings.

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 ()

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 this, two models were available to Russians - XBA-H1 and XBA-H3. The new family has replaced the letter 'H' with 'A' and consists of 3 models - A1, A2, A3, plus: Sony introduces the flagship model XBA-Z5. We will definitely look at the entire new model range, 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 reinforcement ones and a large dynamic one with a membrane with a diameter of 16 mm. The XBA-A3 are created using a similar 3-driver design, but thanks to the efforts of Sony engineers and designers, the headphones have lost a little weight and generally look less bulky. The plastic case is no longer glossy, but matte and looks more like metal; fingerprints on it are now practically invisible. There is a straight groove running down the center of the front panel - this clever solution visually makes the model more compact and neat. The left and right earbuds are marked with colored circles located on the rear panel - white 'L' and red 'R', respectively. The detachable cable is also color-coded at the point where it connects to the headphones - you won’t be able to mix up the channels.

The fit has remained virtually unchanged; due to the design, it is quite specific and is a bit reminiscent of the UltimateEars TripleFi 10. Unlike, for example, Shure or Westone, the body of which is placed in the auricle parallel to the head, the XBA-A3 are positioned perpendicularly and protrude from the ears. For additional fixation, there are ear hooks made of rubber with a memory effect - about 10 centimeters of cable are wrapped in it. Despite the large size of the case, the fit of the model is not very deep, so owners of small ears should not be alarmed ahead of time.

Of course, the fit of the XBA-A3 is not the most common, but new does not mean bad. If you take the time to select suitable attachments (of which there are as many as 7 types in the set), you quickly get used to the headphones; from the outside you can see them more than others, but the feeling is that you can easily 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 part, let’s pay attention to the XBA-A3 configuration. In addition to the headphones themselves, the box contains a convenient leather case with a zipper; in addition to the main compartment, it has a couple of pockets for tips, accessories and a replacement cable. There are 2 cables included - standard and headset. Both are 1.2m long, flat with fine longitudinal grooves for tangle resistance and microphone suppression, 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 replaceable attachments: 4 sizes of regular silicone and 3 sizes of special combined attachments from Sony - the outside is the same silicone, but inside it is sealed with foam material. These tips combine the benefits of foam tips (tighter fit and sound insulation) with the durability of silicone tips. Additional accessories include a reel 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 made quite a lot of progress with the previous model. The XBA-H3 headphones had a very rich and lively sound with an excellent 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 have 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 mid and high frequencies have increased noticeably. With the XBA-H3, the 'middle' was pushed back a little, which, together with the rise in the midbass region, made the sound of vocals or, for example, a guitar somewhat distant, plunging them into the depths of the mix. Here the tonal balance has become smoother, voices sound clearer and more pleasant. The bass retained its depth and volume, while also adding a little detail. The sound stage and the transfer of space in the new product are even better, there is no isolation of conventional ‘plugs’, the sound extends beyond the head, the instruments are well separated from each other. The hybrids have a multi-genre sound - hip-hop and dance genres rock, metal pleases with dynamics and a clear rhythm section, and symphonic music with airiness and conveyance of space.

As for a source suitable for headphones, the XBA-A3 demonstrates its character and quality sound even with a smartphone. Thanks to high sensitivity, there is no lack of volume. If you are not spoiled by Hi-End, perhaps this bundle will seem more than sufficient. And yet, this is far from the limit of the capabilities of this model, which is further 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 the Sony Walknam ZX1 and Hi-Res recordings, the sound of the XBA-A3 truly blossoms - if not with new, then with brighter colors and their combinations, and the musical canvas is drawn with more precise and finer strokes. The sound stage becomes wider, as if someone had opened the windows, transparency and detail reach new heights, and there is no trace left of the remnants of tightness typical of in-ear headphones.

We also tested the model with Sony's new flagship portable DAC/amplifier PHA-3 (PCM support up to 384 kHz / 32 bit, DSD 2.8 MHz / 5.6 MHz). In addition to the standard 3.5 mm jack, this device has a Sony format balanced jack (2 x 3.5 mm). A balanced headphone cable is not included in the package; it must be purchased separately (for testing, we used the balanced cable included with the flagship XBA-Z5 model, a review of which is expected in early December). When using a standard connection, the sound of the XBA-A3 with the PHA-3 is excellent, even more delicate than with the ZX1, plus more power reserve. But uncompromising perfectionists should, of course, try a balanced connection with this amplifier. In this way, you can achieve excellent channel separation and detail; a balanced cable has a particularly good effect on the low-frequency response, and the bass becomes even more concentrated and articulate.

I'm looking forward to connecting the headphones to the player and checking whether all these experiments with sizes are justified.

Listening

Overall, the Sony XBA-H3 plays interestingly, noticeably different from the average in-ear headphones. At the same time, the sound has both obvious advantages and disappointments. For example, we did not hear the expressive bass due to the use of a separate driver. But the middle and top really turned out to be up to par. There is impressive detail that remains even as volume increases. And the frequency balance itself seems ideal to us. The headphones provide full drive, so many instruments (especially rock - electric guitar, bass guitar) sound like real ones. You often catch yourself thinking that the sound is simply not tied to the emitters themselves.

I was also pleased with the versatility of the model. Due to the standard impedance and high sensitivity, acceptable volume and “evenness” are achieved with almost any source. For example, we got excellent results when paired with the HiFiMan HM-601 player. When switching to a cheap smartphone with a mediocre output, only the detail dropped, but the volume remained sufficient.

Competitors

There are not so many hybrid headphones on the market, but there are still worthy competitors, albeit not yet widespread in Russia. For example, we can name the Korean T-PEOS H-200. They are very similar in design - also three-driver, but the body dimensions are more humane. The price turned out to be approximately comparable.

The rating includes headphones from one of the best series presented by Sony – XBA. Detailed information about sound quality, size, configuration and features of use is 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 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 at a very high level - you can only enjoy 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 the constantly tangled wire 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 upper 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 won't get tangled.

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. The metal body is a significant advantage.

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 with powerful bass, as well as an excellent frequency balance. The sound is soft and stunningly clear - there is no extraneous noise or 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, 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 noise insulation provides clear and spacious sound - while listening you can enjoy the detailed sound. The sound source plays an important role - 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, and travel on 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 wonderful detail, 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 exactly a similar 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 prefer: the stunning monitor sound of the Sony XBA-A1, the stylish design and 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.