Wired IEMs
AKG N5005
84Great
$285
Full review dataAKG N5005 vs Shanling ME500: which should you buy?
Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the AKG N5005 vs Shanling ME500, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.
Wired IEMs
Shanling ME500
Not yet scored
$269
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
Shanling ME500
No sub-scores yet - not enough rated reviews.
Specifications
| Spec | AKG N5005 | Shanling ME500 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $285 | $269 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | Not scored |
| Released | 2018 | 2019 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 1 dynamic + 4 balanced armature | hybrid |
| Driver size | 9.2 mm | 10 mm |
| Drivers per side | 5 | 3 |
| Frequency response | 10Hz-40kHz | 20Hz-40kHz |
| Impedance | 18 Ω | 18 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 116 dB/mW | 111 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 | - |
| ANC type | - | none |
| Transparency mode | - | No |
| Companion app | - | No |
| Custom EQ | - | No |
| Wear detection | - | No |
| Controls | - | none |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 11.4 g | - |
| Water resistance | - | none |
| 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
Shanling ME500
The Shanling ME500 is a universal in-ear monitor that combines three drivers in a hybrid setup to deliver a balanced, warm audio profile. It features a sturdy brass construction, comfortable fit, and detachable MMCX cables, making it a solid choice for listeners seeking a natural yet engaging sound at a mid-range price point. Its 18-ohm impedance and 111 dB sensitivity ensure easy driving from most sources.
- Pro:Warm, balanced sound with good detail
- Pro:Solid brass build offers durability
- Pro:Detachable MMCX cables for easy replacement
- Con:No inline controls or microphone
- Con:Lacks app support or EQ adjustments
- Con:No water resistance rating
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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