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The STAX SR-009S is a premium open-back electrostatic headphone that delivers exceptional transparency, speed, and detail, making it a top-tier choice for discerning listeners. Its refined, slightly warmer tuning than the original SR-009, combined with a spacious soundstage and precise imaging, offers a highly immersive experience, though it demands high-quality source material and dedicated amplification. It stands among the best in its class, with only a few newer models potentially edging it out.
Paraphrased from published reviews & specs - not an original hands-on test. Our AI disclosure.
| Driver | electrostatic |
|---|---|
| Driver type | electrostatic |
| Drivers per side | 1 |
| Frequency response | 5 Hz - 42 kHz |
| Impedance | 145000 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 101 dB/mW |
| Driver | electrostatic |
|---|---|
| Driver type | electrostatic |
| Drivers per side | 1 |
| Frequency response | 5 Hz - 42 kHz |
| Impedance | 145000 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 101 dB/mW |
| Active noise cancelling | No |
|---|
| Weight | 441 g |
|---|
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5 source(s) feeding this product's score.
Video reviews we found, each condensed to its verdict. They do feed the HearWiki score, at a measured weight below what a published written review carries.
Reviewers agree the STAX SR-009S delivers exceptional clarity, detail, and resolution, with most praising its neutral tuning and slight warmth that makes it sound more natural than its predecessor.
10:21The reviewer finds the SR-009S to be a subtle but worthwhile refinement of the already excellent SR-009, offering slightly more present bass, smoother treble, and a touch more resolution without sacrificing the original's strengths. He recommends it unequivocally for new buyers, but suggests current SR-009 owners may not find the upgrade worth the cost unless budget is not a concern.
28:32The reviewer unboxes and tests the STAX SR-009S electrostatic headphones paired with a Blue Hawaii amplifier, praising the exceptional clarity and detail of the sound but criticizing the cheap plastic build quality and uncomfortable ear pads, especially given the high price. Overall, the sonic performance is impressive, but the physical construction and ergonomics are disappointing for a flagship product.
24:18The reviewer compares the STAX SR-009 and SR-009S electrostatic headphones, focusing on the newer SR-009S. He finds both to be neutral, highly resolving, and comfortable, with the SR-009S adding a slight warmth and improving on the SR-009's strengths, making it sound more natural and realistic. He concludes that the SR-009S is a worthy current model, while the SR-009 remains a good option on the used market.
Summaries are AI condensations of each video's own conclusion, not transcripts. Titles, thumbnails and view counts belong to their channels.
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Where the STAX SR-009S comes up in our guides and explainers.
Other over-ear models at a comparable price, ordered by HearWiki score.
Other STAX models in the database, same category first.
The data-driven guides this model qualifies for.
