Over-Ear
Audio-Technica Narukami
78Great
$3452
Full review dataAudio-Technica Narukami vs STAX SR-009D: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the STAX SR-009D comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: STAX SR-009D - Outstanding overall at around $2640.
Over-Ear
STAX SR-009D
88Outstanding
$2640
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Audio-Technica Narukami
Sound8.5
Value5.0
STAX SR-009D
Sound9.5
Value5.5
Specifications
| Spec | Audio-Technica Narukami | STAX SR-009D |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $3452 | $2640 |
| HearWiki score | 78 / 100 · Great | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2024 | 2024 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | push-pull electrostatic circular sound element |
| Driver size | 53 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | - | 2 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz-45kHz | 5Hz-42kHz |
| Impedance | 60 Ω | 145000 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 102 dB/mW | - |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | - | none |
| Multipoint pairing | - | No |
| Battery | ||
| Wireless charging | - | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | - | No |
| ANC type | - | none |
| Transparency mode | - | No |
| Companion app | - | No |
| Custom EQ | - | No |
| Wear detection | - | No |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 395 g | 594 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| USB-C | - | No |
What reviewers said
Audio-Technica Narukami
The Audio-Technica Narukami over-ear headphones pair a robust 53mm dynamic driver with a lightweight 395g build, offering a wide 5Hz-45kHz frequency response and a 60-ohm impedance that suits high-end wired setups. Praised for their luxurious construction and consistently engaging sound, they deliver a refined, top-tier listening experience that prioritizes craftsmanship and musical enjoyment over conventional value. While the matching amplifier is often used with these headphones, the 600-ohm setting is frequently preferred for optimal performance, though the standalone headphones remain a compelling choice for discerning audiophiles.
- Pro:Exceptional build quality and premium materials
- Pro:Wide frequency response captures fine detail
- Pro:Comfortable weight for extended sessions
- Con:Very high price limits accessibility
- Con:Requires high-quality amplification to shine
- Con:Impedance may not suit all sources
STAX SR-009D
The STAX SR-009D is a premium electrostatic over-ear headphone that pushes the boundaries of high-fidelity audio with an exceptionally wide frequency response and transparent, detailed sound. Its open-back design and push-pull driver technology deliver a refined, airy presentation, but it demands a dedicated amplifier and a significant investment. This is a statement piece for audiophiles seeking the utmost in technical performance, not a casual listening device.
- Pro:Exceptional clarity and detail retrieval
- Pro:Very wide frequency range (5Hz-42kHz)
- Pro:Premium build quality with detachable cable
- Con:Requires specialized electrostatic amplifier
- Con:Very high price point
- Con:Open-back design leaks sound and offers no isolation
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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