
Abyss Diana V3 DZ (Carbon) vs Audeze CRBN2: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Audeze CRBN2 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Score breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Specifications
| Spec | Abyss Diana V3 DZ (Carbon) | Audeze CRBN2 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $3995 | $5995 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2024 | 2022 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | planar | push-pull electrostatic, ultra-thin polyimide film infused with carbon nanotubes |
| Driver size | 63 mm | 120 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz-65kHz | 10Hz-40kHz |
| Impedance | 50 Ω | - |
| Sensitivity | 92 dB/mW | 100 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 379 g | 480 g |
| Detachable cable | - | Yes |
| Model code | Diana DZ | - |
What reviewers said
Abyss Diana V3 DZ (Carbon)
The Abyss Diana V3 DZ is a premium planar headphone that delivers a wide, holographic soundstage with exceptional clarity and a neutral, refined tonal balance. Its lightweight frame and improved comfort make it a notable step forward from earlier Diana models, though it demands high-quality source gear to fully shine. It stands as a strong contender in the ultra-high-end category for those seeking technical precision over a vocal-forward signature.
- Pro:Spacious, holographic imaging with strong detail retrieval
- Pro:Neutral yet refined tuning that avoids listener fatigue
- Pro:Lightweight build with improved ergonomics and comfort
- Con:Performance heavily depends on premium source equipment
- Con:Not ideal for listeners who prioritize upfront, vocal-centric sound
- Con:High price point limits accessibility
Audeze CRBN2
The Audeze CRBN2 is a premium open-back electrostatic headphone that builds on its predecessor with a second-generation driver and SLAM bass enhancement for a richer low-end. It offers a smooth, refined tonal balance with improved headroom and comfort, though it demands a quality energizer to perform at its best. The treble is slightly subdued, making it a more relaxed listen than some rivals.
- Pro:Powerful, impactful bass for an electrostatic
- Pro:Smooth, refined tonal character
- Pro:Improved comfort and headroom over the original
- Con:Requires a strong, expensive energizer
- Con:Treble presence is somewhat relaxed
- Con:Heavy weight at 480 grams
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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