Wired IEMs
AKG N5005
84Great
$285
Full review dataAKG N5005 vs GoldPlanar GL12: 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
GoldPlanar GL12
58Average
$200
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
GoldPlanar GL12
Sound5.5
Value4.5
Specifications
| Spec | AKG N5005 | GoldPlanar GL12 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $285 | $200 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 58 / 100 · Average |
| Released | 2018 | 2021 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 1 dynamic + 4 balanced armature | 12.5mm planar |
| Driver size | 9.2 mm | 12.5 mm |
| Drivers per side | 5 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 10Hz-40kHz | 20Hz-50kHz |
| Impedance | 18 Ω | 20 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 116 dB/mW | 108 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | 4.1 | - |
| Codecs | AptX, SBC | - |
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 8 h | - |
| Full charge time | 120 min | - |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 11.4 g | 6.5 g |
| Detachable cable | 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
GoldPlanar GL12
The GoldPlanar GL12 is a lightweight, wired planar in-ear monitor that offers a warm, bass-forward sound signature with a smooth and relaxed character. While it is easy to drive and feels solidly built, its heavily recessed midrange and treble, along with soft dynamics, result in a dark and somewhat veiled presentation that limits detail and clarity. It is a competent but niche performer that struggles to justify its price point against more balanced competitors.
- Pro:Strong, impactful bass response
- Pro:Very easy to drive from any source
- Pro:Lightweight and sturdy construction
- Con:Mids and highs are noticeably recessed, giving a dark tone
- Con:Lacks detail retrieval and transient crispness
- Con:Imaging is weak and soundstage feels narrow
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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