Wired IEMs
AKG N5005
84Great
$285
Full review dataAKG N5005 vs Etymotic ER4SR 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 ER4SR Earphones
78Great
$349
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 ER4SR Earphones
Sound8.5
Value6.5
Specifications
| Spec | AKG N5005 | Etymotic ER4SR Earphones |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $285 | $349 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 78 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2018 | 2016 |
| 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 | 45 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 116 dB/mW | 98 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | 4.1 | - |
| Codecs | AptX, SBC | - |
| Multipoint pairing | No | No |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 8 h | - |
| Full charge time | 120 min | - |
| Wireless charging | - | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| ANC type | - | none |
| Transparency mode | - | No |
| Companion app | - | No |
| Custom EQ | - | No |
| Wear detection | - | No |
| Controls | - | none |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 11.4 g | 20 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C | - | No |
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 ER4SR Earphones
The Etymotic ER4SR is a wired, single balanced-armature in-ear monitor designed for critical listening and studio use, delivering an exceptionally flat and accurate sound signature with strong midrange detail. Its deep-insertion fit provides outstanding noise isolation, though this can feel intrusive, and its minimalist design omits conveniences like controls or app support. The detachable cable and broad tip selection add practical flexibility for those who prioritize fidelity over casual listening features.
- Pro:Highly neutral and accurate sound profile
- Pro:Excellent passive noise isolation
- Pro:Detachable cable for easy replacement
- Con:Deep fit may be uncomfortable for some
- Con:Limited bass impact
- Con:Lacks inline controls or remote
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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