Wired IEMs
AKG N5005
84Great
$285
Full review dataAKG N5005 vs TRUTHEAR NOVA: 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
TRUTHEAR NOVA
76Great
$170
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
TRUTHEAR NOVA
Sound7.8
Value8.0
Specifications
| Spec | AKG N5005 | TRUTHEAR NOVA |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Wired IEMs | Wired IEMs |
| Price (USD) | $285 | $170 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 76 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2018 | 2023 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | 1 dynamic + 4 balanced armature | 1DD + 4BA |
| Driver size | 9.2 mm | 10 mm |
| Drivers per side | 5 | 5 |
| Frequency response | 10Hz-40kHz | 8Hz-40kHz |
| Impedance | 18 Ω | 14.8 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 116 dB/mW | 123 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 | 5.6 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
TRUTHEAR NOVA
The TRUTHEAR NOVA is a five-driver hybrid IEM that delivers a well-balanced, detailed sound with strong imaging and a smooth yet lively treble, making it a solid value in the mid-priced range. Its sub-bass is enjoyable and separation is impressive, but the lower mids can feel thin, and the stock cable is a weak point. The shell is also on the larger side, which may affect comfort for some listeners.
- Pro:Excellent detail retrieval and separation
- Pro:Well-balanced tuning with smooth treble
- Pro:Good sub-bass presence and imaging
- Con:Thin lower mids and occasional upper-mid glare
- Con:Stock cable is underwhelming
- Con:Large shell may cause fit issues
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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