Wired IEMs
AKG N5005
84Great
$290
Full review dataAKG N5005 vs FiiO FA9: 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
FiiO FA9
72Good
$500
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
AKG N5005
Sound9.0
Value6.5
FiiO FA9
Sound7.5
Value6.5
Specifications
| Spec | AKG N5005 | FiiO FA9 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $290 | $500 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 72 / 100 · Good |
| Released | 2018 | 2020 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 1 dynamic + 4 balanced armature | 6 balanced armature drivers (Knowles) |
| Driver size | 9.2 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 5 | 6 |
| Frequency response | 10Hz-40kHz | 15Hz-40kHz |
| Impedance | 18 Ω | - |
| Sensitivity | 116 dB/mW | 110 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | 4.1 | - |
| Codecs | AptX, SBC | - |
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 8 h | - |
| Full charge time | 120 min | - |
| Wireless charging | - | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| ANC type | - | none |
| Transparency mode | - | No |
| Companion app | - | No |
| Custom EQ | - | No |
| Wear detection | - | No |
| Controls | - | none |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 11.4 g | 6.2 g |
| Water resistance | - | none |
| Foldable | - | No |
| 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
FiiO FA9
The FiiO FA9 is a flagship six-driver balanced-armature in-ear monitor that prioritizes tuning flexibility through its switchable sound profiles and a robust, 3D-printed shell. It delivers a warm, bass-rich signature with airy treble, and while it excels in build quality and source compatibility, its physical size and complex tuning options may not suit everyone. Overall, it's a well-engineered enthusiast tool that offers solid technical performance for its price, though it doesn't dominate every sonic category.
- Pro:Excellent build quality with a comfortable, lightweight fit for most ears
- Pro:Multiple tuning switches allow for significant sound signature adjustments
- Pro:Strong bass extension and smooth, non-fatiguing treble
- Con:Large shell may cause fit issues for smaller ears
- Con:Tuning options can be overwhelming or confusing to dial in
- Con:Instrument separation is only average for the price
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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