
STAX SR-009D vs Ultrasone Edition 8 EX: which should you buy?
Specs, scores and condensed review verdicts for the STAX SR-009D vs Ultrasone Edition 8 EX, side by side. Where a product has no HearWiki score yet, not enough reviews have been aggregated to rate it.
Score breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
No sub-scores yet - not enough rated reviews.
Specifications
| Spec | STAX SR-009D | Ultrasone Edition 8 EX |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $2640 | $1799 |
| HearWiki score | 88 / 100 · Outstanding | Not scored |
| Released | 2024 | 2018 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | push-pull electrostatic circular sound element | 40mm Titanium-plated Mylar transducers |
| Driver size | - | 40 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz-42kHz | 5Hz-46kHz |
| Impedance | 145000 Ω | 38 Ω |
| Sensitivity | - | 96 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 | 594 g | 330 g |
| Detachable cable | - | Yes |
| USB-C | No | No |
What reviewers said
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
Ultrasone Edition 8 EX
The Ultrasone Edition 8 EX is a premium closed-back over-ear headphone that uses S-Logic EX spatial processing and ULE shielding to minimize electromagnetic emissions. Its build combines a chrome-plated PVD finish, Ethiopian sheep leather pads, and an aluminum headband for a sturdy, luxurious feel. The 40mm titanium-coated Mylar drivers deliver a wide frequency range with a relatively low 38-ohm impedance, making it easy to drive from portable sources.
- Pro:Unique S-Logic EX technology creates a spacious, immersive soundstage for a closed-back design
- Pro:Premium materials and robust construction with detachable cable
- Pro:Lightweight at 330g for long listening comfort
- Con:Very high price point limits accessibility
- Con:Closed-back design may not suit those preferring open-back airiness
- Con:Frequency response extends beyond typical hearing range, which is more marketing than practical benefit
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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