Add to your order
- Coverage for accidental damage including drops, spills, and broken parts, as well as breakdowns (plans vary)
- 24/7 support when you need it.
- Quick, easy, and frustration-free claims.
- No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included.
- Coverage: Plan starts on the date of purchase. Drops, spills and cracked screens due to normal use are covered from day one. Malfunctions are covered after the manufacturer's warranty. Real experts are available 24/7 to help with set-up, connectivity issues, troubleshooting and much more.
- Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. We will send you an e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product. In some instances, we will replace or repair it.
- Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
- Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.
- No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included.
- Coverage: Plan starts on the date of purchase. Drops, spills and cracked screens due to normal use are covered from day one. Malfunctions are covered after the manufacturer's warranty. Real experts are available 24/7 to help with set-up, connectivity issues, troubleshooting and much more.
- Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. We will send you an e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product. In some instances, we will replace or repair it.
- Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
- Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.
- Buy a lot of stuff on Amazon? Tons of items eligible for coverage, from the latest tech like laptops, game consoles, and TVs, to major appliances, sporting goods, tools, toys, mattresses, personal care, furniture, and more.
- Accidents happen. That’s why for your portable products we cover accidental damage from handling such as drops, spills and cracked screens. We also cover electrical and mechanical malfunctions, power surges, and wear and tear.
- Past and future purchases covered. 30 days after you are enrolled, all eligible past purchases (up to 1 year prior to enrollment) and future eligible purchases made on Amazon will be covered by your plan as long as you are enrolled.
- Fast, easy claims. Frustration-free claims, with most filed in minutes. We will fix it, replace it, or reimburse you with an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your product (excluding tax). File at Asurion.com/amazon.
- No hidden fees. For just $16.99 a month + tax you’re covered for up to $5,000 in claims per 12-month period. *THIS PROGRAM IS MONTH-TO-MONTH AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL CANCELED* Coverage for all products ends 30 days after the plan is canceled. Cancel any time.
Add to your order
- Coverage for accidental damage including drops, spills, and broken parts, as well as breakdowns (plans vary)
- 24/7 support when you need it.
- Quick, easy, and frustration-free claims.
Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime
Try Prime
and start saving today with fast, free delivery
Amazon Prime includes:
Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.
Amazon Prime members enjoy:- Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
- Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
- Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
- A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
- Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
- Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access
Important: Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.
- 2 VIDEOS
Image Unavailable
Color:
-
-
-
- To view this video download Flash Player
PHILIPS Fidelio X3 Professional Studio Monitor Headphones for Recording & Mixing Wired Over The Ear Open-Back Headphones, Multi-Layer 50mm Diaphragms, Hi-Res Music Studio Headset, Premium Finishing
Learn more
Return this item for free
Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges
Learn more about free returns.- Go to your orders and start the return
- Select the return method
- Ship it!
Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | PHILIPS |
Model Name | Overhead Headphones |
Color | Black |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Connectivity Technology | Wired |
About this item
- All new Philips Fidelio X3 with wide, natural soundstage and uncolored sound
- Exquisitely tuned 50 mm multi-layer polymer (with dampening gel) diaphragms - delivers exquisitely detailed highs, full and smooth midrange, and impactful (without overpowering) bass
- Hi-Res Audio certified. Hear the full impact of every note when wired to a high-resolution source for a lifelike performance.
- Open-back design. Wide, natural soundstage with acoustically transparent Kvadrat speaker fabric. By eliminating the air pressure build-up behind the diaphragms, an immersive and spacious sound is born.
- Premium finishing also means responsibly sourced materials. The sumptuous black Muirhead Scottish leather covering the headband is sustainably and ethically sourced.
- Balanced and unbalanced inputs means it is ready for your favorite headphone amp or your everyday phone and mobile devices.
- Detachable Balanced and Unbalanced 3 m oxygen-free cables included
- 3.5 – 6.3 mm adapter + cable clip are also included
- Technical specifications: 5 - 40,000 Hz frequency response | Open acoustic system | 500mW maximum power input | 30 Ohm impedance | 100 db @ 1 mW sensitivity | 13.4 Oz weight
Save on Quality Tripod by AmazonBasics |
AmazonBasics 60-Inch Lightweight Tripod with Bag, 2-Pack | AmazonBasics Lightweight Mini Tripod, 4-Pack | AmazonBasics 50-Inch Lightweight Tripod with Bag, 4-Pack |
Consider a similar item
Frequently bought together
Similar items that may ship from close to you
From the brand
-
The Fidelio Difference
-
-
-
Superior sound
Meticulously fine-tuned and crafted, our premium Fidelio line caters to the most discerning music aficionados. Precise audio engineering brings out the best in your music, at home or on the go.
Absolute comfort
Form follows function. Philips Fidelio designs are always mindful of listeners, environment and preference to ensure the delivery of superior sound in absolute comfort.
Natural sound reproduction
True innovation arises from challenges and dilemmas, such as combining new noise canceling technology with superior audio. Staying true to natural sound reproduction, anywhere remains at the heart of all of Philips Fidelio’s audio innovation.
-
From the manufacturer
Specifications:
Distortion: <0.1% THD
Diaphragm: LMC
Speaker diameter: 50 mm
Sensitivity: 100 dB @ 1 mW
Maximum power input: 500 mW
Impedance: 30 Ohm
Frequency response: 5 - 40 000 Hz
Magnet type: Neodymium
Acoustic system: Open
Type: dynamic
Included accessories: Balanced and Unbalanced detachable Oxygen free cable (3 m), 3.5 - 6.3 mm adapter, cable clip
Fidelio X3 Hi-Res | SHP9600 Hi-Fi | L2BO Hi-Fi | PH805 Noise Cancelling | ST702 UV-Sanitizing | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Customer Reviews |
4.4 out of 5 stars
725
|
4.5 out of 5 stars
10,707
|
4.1 out of 5 stars
243
|
4.1 out of 5 stars
2,784
|
3.1 out of 5 stars
45
|
Price | $149.99$149.99 | $69.99$69.99 | — | $69.99$69.99 | $59.99$59.99 |
Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm) Balanced/Unbalanced | Wired (3.5 mm) | Wired (3.5 mm) with in-line mic | Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 | True Wireless Bluetooth 5.0 |
Acoustic system | Open | Open-back | Semi-open | Closed | Closed |
Frequency response | 5 – 40,000 Hz | 12 - 35,000 Hz | 6 - 40,000 Hz | 7 – 40,000 Hz | 20 – 20,000 Hz |
Driver size | 50 mm | 50 mm | 40 mm | 40 mm | 6 mm |
Impedance | 30 Ohm | 32 Ohm | 16 Ohm | 16 Ohm | 16 Ohm |
Maximum power input | 500 mW | 200 mW | 200 mW | 30 mW | N/A |
Sensitivity | 100 db @ 1 mW | 101 dB | 105 dB | 90 dB | 94 dB |
Distortion | <0.1% THD | <0.1% THD | <0.1% THD | N/A | N/A |
Cable length | Detachable 3.0 m cables (balanced and unbalanced cables included) | Detachable 3.0 m cable included | Detachable 3.0 m cable with in-line microphone and pick-up button | Detachable cable and airplane adapter + USB charging cable included | USB charging cable |
Compare with similar items
This Item PHILIPS Fidelio X3 Professional Studio Monitor Headphones for Recording & Mixing Wired Over The Ear Open-Back Headphones, Multi-Layer 50mm Diaphragms, Hi-Res Music Studio Headset, Premium Finishing | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | Try again! Added to Cart | |
Price | -57% $149.99$149.99 List: $349.00 | -14% $198.00$198.00 List: $229.25 | $149.00$149.00 | -27% $109.00$109.00 List: $149.00 | $74.99$74.99 | $269.00$269.00 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 | Get it as soon as Friday, May 17 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Quality of material | 4.5 | 3.8 | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.4 | — |
Comfort | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.4 | — |
Sound quality | 4.3 | 4.6 | 4.0 | 4.4 | 4.5 | — |
Noise cancellation | 3.0 | 2.7 | 3.4 | — | 2.4 | — |
Bass quality | 3.8 | — | 3.6 | — | 4.0 | — |
Sold By | JISCO CORP | ARF Tech | HIFIMAN | HIFIMAN | JISCO CORP | Beach Camera Same Day Shipping |
connectivity tech | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired |
headphones form factor | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear | — | Over Ear | Over Ear |
connector type | 3.5mm Jack, 1/4-inch | 1/4-inch, 3.5mm Jack | 6.35mm Jack, 3.5mm Jack | 6.35mm Jack | 3 5mm Jack | 3.5mm Jack |
headphones jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
cable feature | Detachable | Detachable | Detachable | Detachable | Retractable, Detachable | Detachable |
control type | Media Control | control | — | Media Control | — | — |
What's in the box
Looking for specific info?
Product information
Wireless Communication Technology | Bluetooth |
---|---|
Special Feature | Tangle-Free Cord, Lightweight |
Included Components | 3.5mm to 1/4 inch jack adapter, 3.5mm 3m cable (balanced), cable clip, 3.5mm 3m cable (unbalanced) |
Age Range (Description) | Adult |
Material | Kvadrat fabric, Stainless Steel, Leather |
Specific Uses For Product | Music |
Headphones Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
Noise Control | None |
Ear Placement | Over Ear |
Compatible Devices | Cellphones |
Impedance | 30 Ohm |
Control Type | Media Control |
Cable Feature | Detachable |
Item Weight | 13.4 Ounces |
Frequency Response | 40000 Hz |
Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
Frequency Range | 5 Hz - 40 kHz |
Package Type | Standard Packaging |
Unit Count | 1.0 Count |
Style | Fidelio | Wired Hi-Res Audio |
Control Method | Touch |
Number of Items | 1 |
Is Autographed | No |
Is Electric | No |
Manufacturer | Philips Audio |
Product Dimensions | 4.72 x 9.45 x 12.6 inches |
Item Weight | 13.4 ounces |
ASIN | B0884XTXS8 |
Item model number | X3/00 |
Batteries | 1 Lithium Ion batteries required. |
Customer Reviews |
4.4 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #22,679 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #879 in Over-Ear Headphones |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | August 13, 2020 |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Videos
Videos for this product
1:33
Click to play video
PHILIPS Fidelio X3 Open-Back Music Studio Headset
Amazon Videos
Videos for this product
1:03
Click to play video
Philip Fidelio X3 - the legend continues
Envision Peripherals
Product Description
Like a concert hall for your ears. From the singer’s breath to fingers squeaking on a fretboard, these Philips Fidelio X3 audiophile-grade open-back headphones match feather-light comfort with pristine tuning. Discover new layers of transparency and detail every time you slip them on.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the comfort, quality and appearance of the headphones. For example, they mention it's incredibly comfortable, great looking and understated. They're also happy with detail, and value. That said, opinions are mixed on sound quality and sturdiness.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the comfort of the headphones. They mention that they are incredibly comfortable, and can be worn with glasses for a long period of time. They also say that the build is ok, and the headphones feel like a dream on their head.
"...Comfort, resolution, presentation, its like going from a Charger to an E Class; I loved my Charger but everything is just smoother in this E Class...." Read more
"...MIDRANGE:Liquid and Smooth! It's very comparable to the rich midrange of the X2. The layering on the X3 is very well done...." Read more
"...The bass is pronounced but very tight and kept well in check...." Read more
"...Comfort: These headphones feel like a dream on my head. I have a larger than average noggin and these do not feel tight or heavy...." Read more
Customers like the quality of the headphones. They mention that it's an impressive set, great entry-level audiophile headphones, and has stunning build quality and sound.
"...Don't get me wrong, they are very good but the sub bass roll off is so severe, I just can't get the sound I like out of them...." Read more
"...At about $200 with it's stunning build quality and sound, this headphone is a STEAL! Remember, only for those who can listen at an optimal level...." Read more
"...like you get on commercial headphones or with gaming headsets, but it's rich, punchy, and has a massively-wide sound stage that sounds WONDERFUL for..." Read more
"First, let me say that these are the absolute best over-the-ear headphones I have ever owned! I do own In-ear headphones (Westone 3s)...." Read more
Customers like the appearance of the headphones. They say it has a great looking and understated design. They also appreciate the suede covering that takes the shine off the top end. Overall, customers say the headphones are well-tuned to fit the concert hall theme.
"...does darken the headphone a little for sure but suede also takes the shine of the top end, something headphones like the K371s and 99 classics need..." Read more
"...Vocal & instrumental timbre is realistically uncolored.TREBLE:Perfect! Perfect! Perfect! It never gets offensive...." Read more
"...The only real benefit the Beyers have is that they look better on my head. Otherwise there’s really no comparison...." Read more
"...In my opinion these are the best looking studio monitors on the market in 2022.Sound: This is honestly where I was the most shocked...." Read more
Customers like the detail of the headphones. They say it has great resolution throughout the range, and incredible imaging. They also say the details are extremely crisp without being too harsh.
"...The 177x are also superb for imaging but can get a little clampy after a while, and the bass, so much bass...." Read more
"...Detail Retrieval is simply outstanding. I don't say this lightly...." Read more
"...The kids and highs are very pronounced and are extremely crisp without being too harsh.Highly recommend this headphone! Easy recommend." Read more
"...for listening to electronic music, as they give me a very good resolution throughout the range and allow me to hear all different nuances of various..." Read more
Customers appreciate the value of the headphones. They say it's excellent value for the money and the design is impressive, paying off every dollar invested.
"...Especially with the discounted prices you can find, it's excellent value for the (little) money." Read more
"...This is a very good buy at its current price. I am glad I did!" Read more
"...It's little bit expansive but still affordable consider the specification with this one. Good bass and has very high frequency response as well...." Read more
"...And all things considered the price is pretty good at around $150.So why the one star review...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the sound quality of the headphones. Some mention that the sound is amazing, exquisitely detailed, and has a nice wide soundstage. They say the headphones have a flat response over the audio spectrum, neither heavy bass nor piercing, and the vocals are distinct. They are fun to listen to and sound similar to the X2s but with more. However, some say that the subtle sounds are at higher volume and the instruments are a little more lively.
"...The most important thing: No bass roll off if you change the pads. The Beyers and ATs and Meze have moss bass, but none sound this good...." Read more
"...or with gaming headsets, but it's rich, punchy, and has a massively-wide sound stage that sounds WONDERFUL for movies, gaming, and heavy music...." Read more
"...as bassy as the 9500 and not as wide as the X2HR but the better in overall sound quality and resolving that the other two...." Read more
"...footsteps are distinguishable and directional thanks to the incredible soundstage the X3's offer...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the sturdiness of the headphones. Some mention that the build quality is excellent, it's made like a tank, and will last much longer. However, others say that they are permanently attached and flimsy made.
"...Best looking headphones I have ever seen, period. Great construction and just a superb, understated design...." Read more
"...In addition, the construction and choice of materials used is remarkable; a metallic head band wrapped in fine Scottish leather...." Read more
"...that go into each earcup don't lock into place so they can get ripped out with enough force...." Read more
"...more comfortable to wear than my RH5MA, are much better made, much more sturdy and will probably last much longer, my family already broke one pair..." Read more
Customers are dissatisfied with the cables provided with the headphones. They mention that the stock cables are meh, long, and require specific cables. Some customers also say that the headphones sound great but the cables are too long.
"...So no replacement or balanced cable for you, unless you count the laughably long 2.5mm (yes 2.5mm) balanced cable included...." Read more
"...The only claim are the balanced cables, I bought several adapters to connect to my ifi zen by 4,4 output and can't get that work...." Read more
"...However, these headphones ship with not one, but TWO cables, which are, the both of them, THREE. METERS. LONG.That is 10-foot cables...." Read more
"...Stock cables are meh and since they wired it weirdly on one side you can't use normal dual 3.5mm cables but there are aftermarket cables out there..." Read more
Reviews with images
-
Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
There was a problem filtering reviews right now. Please try again later.
Beyer DT880s (balanced)
Beyer/Drop 177x Go
Senn 660S
Meze 99 Classics
AKG K371
Audio technica 990z
Audio technica 500x
Blue Lola
X2HR
Source: Android runnin Viper 24bit/48khz through optical out to smsl m200 dac to smsl sp200 amp.
I know, i know, why so many headphones...Soooooo I felt compelled to write this review because i bought these when the ball and chain gave me a $100 gift card and the price had dropped. I liked the X2HR but didn't love them; wasn't in that bass canon great soundstage camp everyone else was in. Don't get me wrong, they are very good but the sub bass roll off is so severe, I just can't get the sound I like out of them. Reading the reviews of the X3 was a mixed bag, mostly because everyone was comparing them to the X2; it seemed if you loved the X2 then there was no need for the X3 to exist. A quick tangent on pads; to my ears suede is the best pad on almost any headphone. It does darken the headphone a little for sure but suede also takes the shine of the top end, something headphones like the K371s and 99 classics need in my opinion as they can be very bright (same for the X3, with the stock pads). Suede also takes away some of the mid bass, turning the 99 classics in into some real closed back monsters. Also, if you own a pair of DT880s and are not using suede pads I don't know what you are doing with your life; the sub bass roll off completely disappears (not so with X2) without hampering the soundstage. Sheepskin is good too and my 2nd fav but doesnt lower the mid bass.
Back to the X3s. My favorite headphones before these were the DT880s and 660s. The Senns were the king of fidelity; if you wanted to hear the track exactly as intended, you wanted the 660s. Great mids and the artist is right there, great for vocals. The DT880 soundstage and imaging are superb; the stage isnt as wide as the X2 or even the 500x but you could hear everything. The presentation is as much about the instruments as it is the artist. The 177x are also superb for imaging but can get a little clampy after a while, and the bass, so much bass. I got the X3s 10 days ago...and haven't taken them off. Quick observations:
Best looking headphones I have ever seen, period. Great construction and just a superb, understated design. They will meld into your desk as opposed to being an ornament.
Most comfortable headphones I have ever owned, period. My first full day with them i wore them for 11 hours. You know they're there but after putting them on, I don't have to make any adjustments, they just sit there. I wear glasses, btw.
Not sure why there are so many comparisons to the X2; while not a completely different sound there is a fullness to the X3 that I don't hear in the X2. The X3 can be driven off of anything to great affect; I also own a THX Onyx, HUD100 and ibasso DC03, all getting great volume and push right around 60% volume (sounds the best on optical, even at the lower bit depth).
The most important thing: No bass roll off if you change the pads. The Beyers and ATs and Meze have moss bass, but none sound this good. No bleed, the drivers are in complete control on even the most bass heavy tracks (the X2s would distort pretty easily).
Comparisons:
660s The whole mix and incredible imaging. The mids are king here but if you want bass you can eq it in (if you change the pads) without distortion. Truly great headphones. The X3s are as resolving in my opinion but with a much, much wider stage (by design I believe the 660s is meant to be intimate). Voices are more full as well on the X3 and i would say the mids are just a good as the 660s.
DT880 (250ohm) A lot more bass in the DT880 but the driver doesn't seem to be as fast; bass heavy tracks mask some parts of the mix when i listening to the DT880s while I still hear it all on the X3. You see a lot of headphones claim they go down to 5hz, i don't doubt it with the X3. The instruments are a little more lively on the DT880 but they are also closer to you; with the X3 those cymbals are waaaayyy over there (and I swear the bass is behind me), with the DT880, the cymbals are way over there. Not dissing the DT880s, those were my babies for a loooonngg time...but the reason I am writing this review is because they have been dethroned.
Comfort, resolution, presentation, its like going from a Charger to an E Class; I loved my Charger but everything is just smoother in this E Class. I didn't buy these before now because i couldn't justify the price (didn't buy my 660s) but if i could have test driven before purchase, I would have paid the $350. The X3 does everything every other headphone in my collection does, better. One word of caution: aftermarket cords will not work with these headphones unless special ordered.
4 stars is too few, the X2HR don't come close to these, not sure what people are hearing. I have the Dekoni choice leather and suede pads, both are more comfortable than the stock pads.
5:stars is not enough, I have never had a better, more musical experience than with the X3s. Every genre, every type of song sound great, sound musical.
Truly incredible headphones, buy them and don't look back.
Beyer DT880s (balanced)
Beyer/Drop 177x Go
Senn 660S
Meze 99 Classics
AKG K371
Audio technica 990z
Audio technica 500x
Blue Lola
X2HR
Source: Android runnin Viper 24bit/48khz through optical out to smsl m200 dac to smsl sp200 amp.
I know, i know, why so many headphones...Soooooo I felt compelled to write this review because i bought these when the ball and chain gave me a $100 gift card and the price had dropped. I liked the X2HR but didn't love them; wasn't in that bass canon great soundstage camp everyone else was in. Don't get me wrong, they are very good but the sub bass roll off is so severe, I just can't get the sound I like out of them. Reading the reviews of the X3 was a mixed bag, mostly because everyone was comparing them to the X2; it seemed if you loved the X2 then there was no need for the X3 to exist. A quick tangent on pads; to my ears suede is the best pad on almost any headphone. It does darken the headphone a little for sure but suede also takes the shine of the top end, something headphones like the K371s and 99 classics need in my opinion as they can be very bright (same for the X3, with the stock pads). Suede also takes away some of the mid bass, turning the 99 classics in into some real closed back monsters. Also, if you own a pair of DT880s and are not using suede pads I don't know what you are doing with your life; the sub bass roll off completely disappears (not so with X2) without hampering the soundstage. Sheepskin is good too and my 2nd fav but doesnt lower the mid bass.
Back to the X3s. My favorite headphones before these were the DT880s and 660s. The Senns were the king of fidelity; if you wanted to hear the track exactly as intended, you wanted the 660s. Great mids and the artist is right there, great for vocals. The DT880 soundstage and imaging are superb; the stage isnt as wide as the X2 or even the 500x but you could hear everything. The presentation is as much about the instruments as it is the artist. The 177x are also superb for imaging but can get a little clampy after a while, and the bass, so much bass. I got the X3s 10 days ago...and haven't taken them off. Quick observations:
Best looking headphones I have ever seen, period. Great construction and just a superb, understated design. They will meld into your desk as opposed to being an ornament.
Most comfortable headphones I have ever owned, period. My first full day with them i wore them for 11 hours. You know they're there but after putting them on, I don't have to make any adjustments, they just sit there. I wear glasses, btw.
Not sure why there are so many comparisons to the X2; while not a completely different sound there is a fullness to the X3 that I don't hear in the X2. The X3 can be driven off of anything to great affect; I also own a THX Onyx, HUD100 and ibasso DC03, all getting great volume and push right around 60% volume (sounds the best on optical, even at the lower bit depth).
The most important thing: No bass roll off if you change the pads. The Beyers and ATs and Meze have moss bass, but none sound this good. No bleed, the drivers are in complete control on even the most bass heavy tracks (the X2s would distort pretty easily).
Comparisons:
660s The whole mix and incredible imaging. The mids are king here but if you want bass you can eq it in (if you change the pads) without distortion. Truly great headphones. The X3s are as resolving in my opinion but with a much, much wider stage (by design I believe the 660s is meant to be intimate). Voices are more full as well on the X3 and i would say the mids are just a good as the 660s.
DT880 (250ohm) A lot more bass in the DT880 but the driver doesn't seem to be as fast; bass heavy tracks mask some parts of the mix when i listening to the DT880s while I still hear it all on the X3. You see a lot of headphones claim they go down to 5hz, i don't doubt it with the X3. The instruments are a little more lively on the DT880 but they are also closer to you; with the X3 those cymbals are waaaayyy over there (and I swear the bass is behind me), with the DT880, the cymbals are way over there. Not dissing the DT880s, those were my babies for a loooonngg time...but the reason I am writing this review is because they have been dethroned.
Comfort, resolution, presentation, its like going from a Charger to an E Class; I loved my Charger but everything is just smoother in this E Class. I didn't buy these before now because i couldn't justify the price (didn't buy my 660s) but if i could have test driven before purchase, I would have paid the $350. The X3 does everything every other headphone in my collection does, better. One word of caution: aftermarket cords will not work with these headphones unless special ordered.
4 stars is too few, the X2HR don't come close to these, not sure what people are hearing. I have the Dekoni choice leather and suede pads, both are more comfortable than the stock pads.
5:stars is not enough, I have never had a better, more musical experience than with the X3s. Every genre, every type of song sound great, sound musical.
Truly incredible headphones, buy them and don't look back.
Camp 1 - Fidelio X3 "Haters"
Those that say this headphone is overly bright and sibilant are definitely individuals who don't understand listening volume and sound engineering. Anyone with normal hearing that listens extremely loud isn't actually listening to the TRUE FIDELITY of their music. There is a science to it! Tyll from inner fidelity discussed this in full in a 3 page Headfi post titled, "Listening Loud Destroys Fidelity"
Camp 2 - Fidelio X3 Lovers
SIMPLY IMPRESSIVE!! The soundstage on display here is nothing like what most have experienced. Detail Retrieval is simply outstanding. I don't say this lightly. Once you've figured out how to listen to music at an optimal level, you shall know why these headphones should be worth around $600 in my opinion. At about $200 with it's stunning build quality and sound, this headphone is a STEAL! Remember, only for those who can listen at an optimal level. THESE HEADPHONES ARE DESIGNED FOR THE SOPHISTICATED LISTENER. If you love to listen extremely LOUD, don't bother with these headphones. You need something dark with tame treble. In addition, the construction and choice of materials used is remarkable; a metallic head band wrapped in fine Scottish leather. It's a great looking headphone. Now onto the sound structure.
BASS:
It's flat, present and extremely controlled. It's sufficient enough to be present & punchy. It's predecessor the X2 does offer a boosted bass performance that's quite addicting I have to admit. As a result of the X3's tuned down bass, all subtle details of the music can be heard very effortlessly.
MIDRANGE:
Liquid and Smooth! It's very comparable to the rich midrange of the X2. The layering on the X3 is very well done. Initially, the midrange might seem distant on the X3, give it time and you'll appreciate why. The distance paints the illusion of sound coming from speakers placed significantly in front of you. Vocal & instrumental timbre is realistically uncolored.
TREBLE:
Perfect! Perfect! Perfect! It never gets offensive. Well tuned to fit the concert hall theme. After listening for weeks, I'm still quite impressed at the realism of the cymbals produced. Note: If you love listening at extreme head banging levels, I'll highly suggest you steer clear and pick up a dark headphone. You'll be better served by a dark sound signature. Your hearing maybe still be at risk even with a dark headphone that's played very loud.
Hint 1: Some YouTube reviewers have no clue on proper and optimal listening levels no wonder they never discuss it while they review & compare gear. The result, most of members of the community have been gravely misguided. Be sure to give Tyll Hertsen's article on Headfi a read. You'll be thankful you did. Here's Tyll Hertsen's 2 step guide on how to tell your listening volume is too loud:
1. A sense of fatigue with listening
2. A sense of pressure as you listen
Hint 2: Do some research on Aliasing, Over sampling and why 'high resolution audio' sounds better (SMOOTH with ZERO GRAIN). It's has to do with a gentle low pass Anti-aliasing filter and not necessarily "Resolution". A very intriguing topic indeed.
I highly recommend this Headphone, Great execution Philips!
Reviewed in the United States on January 9, 2022
Camp 1 - Fidelio X3 "Haters"
Those that say this headphone is overly bright and sibilant are definitely individuals who don't understand listening volume and sound engineering. Anyone with normal hearing that listens extremely loud isn't actually listening to the TRUE FIDELITY of their music. There is a science to it! Tyll from inner fidelity discussed this in full in a 3 page Headfi post titled, "Listening Loud Destroys Fidelity"
Camp 2 - Fidelio X3 Lovers
SIMPLY IMPRESSIVE!! The soundstage on display here is nothing like what most have experienced. Detail Retrieval is simply outstanding. I don't say this lightly. Once you've figured out how to listen to music at an optimal level, you shall know why these headphones should be worth around $600 in my opinion. At about $200 with it's stunning build quality and sound, this headphone is a STEAL! Remember, only for those who can listen at an optimal level. THESE HEADPHONES ARE DESIGNED FOR THE SOPHISTICATED LISTENER. If you love to listen extremely LOUD, don't bother with these headphones. You need something dark with tame treble. In addition, the construction and choice of materials used is remarkable; a metallic head band wrapped in fine Scottish leather. It's a great looking headphone. Now onto the sound structure.
BASS:
It's flat, present and extremely controlled. It's sufficient enough to be present & punchy. It's predecessor the X2 does offer a boosted bass performance that's quite addicting I have to admit. As a result of the X3's tuned down bass, all subtle details of the music can be heard very effortlessly.
MIDRANGE:
Liquid and Smooth! It's very comparable to the rich midrange of the X2. The layering on the X3 is very well done. Initially, the midrange might seem distant on the X3, give it time and you'll appreciate why. The distance paints the illusion of sound coming from speakers placed significantly in front of you. Vocal & instrumental timbre is realistically uncolored.
TREBLE:
Perfect! Perfect! Perfect! It never gets offensive. Well tuned to fit the concert hall theme. After listening for weeks, I'm still quite impressed at the realism of the cymbals produced. Note: If you love listening at extreme head banging levels, I'll highly suggest you steer clear and pick up a dark headphone. You'll be better served by a dark sound signature. Your hearing maybe still be at risk even with a dark headphone that's played very loud.
Hint 1: Some YouTube reviewers have no clue on proper and optimal listening levels no wonder they never discuss it while they review & compare gear. The result, most of members of the community have been gravely misguided. Be sure to give Tyll Hertsen's article on Headfi a read. You'll be thankful you did. Here's Tyll Hertsen's 2 step guide on how to tell your listening volume is too loud:
1. A sense of fatigue with listening
2. A sense of pressure as you listen
Hint 2: Do some research on Aliasing, Over sampling and why 'high resolution audio' sounds better (SMOOTH with ZERO GRAIN). It's has to do with a gentle low pass Anti-aliasing filter and not necessarily "Resolution". A very intriguing topic indeed.
I highly recommend this Headphone, Great execution Philips!
Top reviews from other countries
En cuanto al sonido, dan mucho detalle y una escena muy amplia, a este precio no he probado nada que se acerque. Los encuentro muy equilibrados.
Al tratarse de un auricular abierto, se oye el audio por fuera y no me parece adecuado para uso en exterior pues no aísla los ruidos ambientales.
Me parecen muy disfrutones.
No aptos para quien busque sonidos saturados.