Edifier’s Stax Spirit S3 planar headphones provide exceptional sound by doing things differently than more traditional ones. Instead of using cone-shaped speakers in each earcup, these planar headphones use magnets on either side of a thin diaphragm to produce sound. The result is crisp, even sounds across a wider frequency range with more distinct separation. The clarity is remarkable.
While music and audio sound exceptional, there are some trade-offs. This technology isn’t new, but it is more expensive compared to using traditional dynamic drivers. Plus some people don’t like the enhanced clarity that is offered. It’s a little like the debate between whether a vinyl record or CD playing the same song sounds better.
Edifier Stax Spirit S3 retail for approximately $399, and they are priced affordably for planar headphones. While the audio is excellent, some of the design choices and the lack of certain features won’t make these headphones a slam dunk for everyone. Still, anyone wanting to sink into their music and considering splurging on premium headphones should have these on their list.
