Audio Chi W4 review

This is the first pair of Audio Chi headphones we've heard, and while they're aesthetically pleasing, sonically there's not much there Tested at £70.00

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

There’s plenty of competition in this market and these Audio Chi’s don’t quite cut the mustard

Pros

  • +

    Comfortable, stylish

  • +

    solid build

  • +

    decent bass and insight

Cons

  • -

    Lack clarity and solidity

  • -

    a little bright

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These, the first Audio Chi headphones we've seen, are nicely designed, with a padded quilt effect.

They're comfortable thanks to that headband and equally cushioned earpieces.

A detachable cable is supplied with a 3.5mm connection, with a woven cable that Audio Chi confidently claims won't tangle.

A lack of midrange clarity
Down to business and the sound is interesting. While it's spacious and fairly detailed, with left and right pans moving from ear to ear as they ought, there's a lack of clarity and solidity to the midrange that causes vocals to lose impact, especially when there's plenty else to think about.

While rivals have punch and solidity, the Audio Chi earphones sound vague. Bass depth is okay, but notes need to be tighter and there's brightness to the treble.

If you want a comfortable closed-back design, this ticks the boxes – but for pure sonic performance there are cheaper and better options.

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What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

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