Wired IEMs
Hisenior Mega5EST
84Outstanding
$650
Full review dataHisenior Mega5EST vs STAX SR-003 MKII: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Hisenior Mega5EST comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Hisenior Mega5EST - Outstanding overall at around $649.
Wired IEMs
STAX SR-003 MKII
61Average
$350
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Hisenior Mega5EST leads on 3 of 4 measures.
- Hisenior Mega5EST
- STAX SR-003 MKII
HearWiki score
84
61
Sound
9.1
7.8
Value
8.3
5.8
Price (USD)
$650
$350
Generation & platform
The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?
Same generation
The Hisenior Mega5EST is 11 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price. For 11 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.
- Mega5EST202311 yr newer
- SR-003 MKII2012
Specifications
Mega5ESTSR-003 MKII
- Type
- Wired IEMs
- Wired IEMs
- Price (USD)
- $650
- $350
- HearWiki score
- 84
- 61
- Released
- 2023
- 2012
- Availability
- Still sold new
- Discontinued
- Driver
- 1DD + 2BA + 2EST tribrid
- 28 mm electrostatic
- Driver type
- tribrid
- electrostatic
- Driver configuration
- 1DD + 2BA + 2EST
- -
- Driver size
- 10 mm
- 28 mm
- Drivers per side
- 5
- 1
- Frequency response
- -
- 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Impedance
- 25 Ω
- -
- Sensitivity
- -
- 110 dB/mW
- Active noise cancelling
- -
- No
- Weight
- 6 g
- 12 g
- USB-C
- -
- No
- Connector
- 2-pin 0.78 mm
- -
- Model code
- -
- SR-003MK2
What reviewers said
Hisenior Mega5EST
The Hisenior Mega5EST is a premium wired tribrid IEM that pairs a dynamic driver, dual balanced armatures, and dual electrostatic drivers for a cohesive, engaging sound. Its tuning leans toward musical enjoyment rather than clinical analysis, wrapped in a lightweight, well-built shell with a generous accessory set. The overall presentation is balanced and easy to listen to, making it a versatile choice for those seeking high-end performance without fatigue.
- Pro:Engaging, pleasure-oriented tuning that remains balanced and cohesive
- Pro:Premium build quality with a lightweight, comfortable fit
- Pro:Includes a robust accessory set and quality cable
- Con:Shell color may not perfectly match the faceplates aesthetically
- Con:Tuning favors broad appeal over extreme technical precision
- Con:No active noise cancellation, limiting isolation to passive means
STAX SR-003 MKII
The STAX SR-003 MKII is a compact electrostatic ear speaker designed for portable high-end listening, but it requires a dedicated amplifier to function. It delivers the signature electrostatic strengths of exceptional speed and detail, though its fit and stock accessories may not suit everyone. This is a niche, serious audiophile product rather than a conventional in-ear monitor.
- Pro:Characteristic electrostatic speed and detail
- Pro:Very lightweight at only 12 grams
- Pro:Open, specialized sound presentation
- Con:Requires a separate electrostatic amplifier
- Con:Stock fit and accessories may be uncomfortable for some
- Con:Niche appeal with a high overall system cost
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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