Wired IEMs
AKG N5005
84Great
$285
Full review dataAKG N5005 vs Etymotic ER3XR Earphones: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the AKG N5005 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: AKG N5005 - Great overall at around $285.
Wired IEMs
Etymotic ER3XR Earphones
78Great
$179
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
AKG N5005
Sound9.0
Battery6.0
Value6.5
Etymotic ER3XR Earphones
Sound8.5
Value7.5
Specifications
| Spec | AKG N5005 | Etymotic ER3XR Earphones |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $285 | $179 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 78 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2018 | 2018 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 1 dynamic + 4 balanced armature | Balanced Armature (BA) |
| Driver size | 9.2 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 5 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 10Hz-40kHz | 20Hz-16kHz |
| Impedance | 18 Ω | 22 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 116 dB/mW | 102 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | 4.1 | - |
| Codecs | AptX, SBC | - |
| Multipoint pairing | No | No |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 8 h | - |
| Full charge time | 120 min | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| Controls | - | none |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 11.4 g | 18 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
What reviewers said
AKG N5005
The AKG N5005 is a premium hybrid in-ear monitor that pairs a dynamic driver with four balanced armatures for detailed, reference-grade sound. It offers versatile tuning options and a strong accessory set, though its wired-only connection and lack of noise cancellation may limit its appeal for some listeners. Priced around $199, it delivers high-end performance that rivals far more expensive models.
- Pro:Excellent clarity and detail retrieval
- Pro:Multiple tuning filters for sound customization
- Pro:Solid build quality with detachable cable
- Con:No wireless or noise-canceling support
- Con:Lacks aptX HD codec
- Con:Price may still feel steep for some
Etymotic ER3XR Earphones
The Etymotic ER3XR is a single balanced-armature in-ear monitor that offers a slightly enhanced low-end while retaining the brand's signature accurate and detailed sound. Its deep-fit design provides exceptional noise isolation, making it a strong choice for critical listening in noisy environments. With a detachable cable and lightweight build, it prioritizes pure audio performance over convenience features.
- Pro:Excellent passive noise isolation
- Pro:Accurate and detailed sound with a touch of extra bass
- Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for extended wear
- Con:Deep insertion fit may not suit all ears
- Con:No inline controls or microphone
- Con:Limited frequency response at the top end
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
Compare something else
Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.