The new Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3 Headphones have launched with some impressive qualities and claim to deliver an “Audiophile-Grade Audio Experience”.

Yet, with a price tag putting them in direct competition with Sony & Bose, the S3’s will need to be exceptional!

Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3 headphones. {Tech} for Travel. https://techfortravel.co.uk
<em>New STAX SPIRIT S3 headphones Image Edifier<em>
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Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3 Headphones

STAX SPIRIT is a new range from Edifier, and the S3 headphones will be the launch product in what promises to be a series of high-end headphones targeting Audiophiles.

This range, it appears, has been years in the making, with Edifier acquiring STAX Ltd, a company focused on and renowned for Hi-Res audio, some ten years ago.

And while I wouldn’t doubt the audio quality of any Edifier product, having reviewed and tested many already, the $399 price tag and lack of ANC could be a hard stop for travellers.

Edifier stax spirit s3 headphones with lambskin earpads. {Tech} for Travel. https://techfortravel.co.uk
Cushioned lambskin replaceable earpads Image Tech for Travel | Edifier

Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3// Features

So, with a premium price and a lack of modes such as ANC and Ambient, will the STAX SPIRIT S3 headphones have enough for travellers?

After all, Active Noise Cancelling technology has been one of the biggest draws for audio on the go.

Thanks to the lack of modes, there’s more power, with Edifier quoting 80 hours of playback performance from a single charge, which is impressive. More so is the fast charge capability on the SPIRIT S3, as they can give 11 hours of playback from a 10 min charge.

Wearing the STAX SPIRIT S3 headphones for a prolonged period of time won’t be an issue either. The frame is made from carbon fibre materials, the headband is wrapped in lambskin leather, and the earcups are swappable between leather or a breathable mesh option.

Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3 headphones have been designed for travelling. {Tech} for Travel. https://techfortravel.co.uk
<em>Noise cancelling microphone for hands free calls Image Edifier<em>

There’s a single microphone for voice calls or using voice assistants and multi-point connection to enable the STAX SPIRIT S3’s to connect with two devices simultaneously.

Each earcup folds into the headband, and Edifier ships the STAX SPIRIT S3 headphones with a travel case.

Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3// Audio

The feature that sets the STAX SPIRIT S3 apart from other headphones, is the driver units.

Most headphones today have dynamic drivers, but Edifier has opted to use Advanced Planar Magnetic Drivers, which, Edifier says, ” gives a cleaner sound, greater resolution, and better imaging”.

// Media Qualcomm YouTube Channel.

To further improve this audio experience, Edifier suggests using a smartphone compatible with Qualcomm® Snapdragon Sound™, which will not be many of us based on the current list of supported smartphones.

Alternatively, the 3.5mm wired connection delivers the same experience, just not wirelessly!

The all-new Edifier EqualMass™ diaphragm technology combines trusted and iconic components, including the Audeze® Fluxor™ magnetic structure, Uniforce™ diaphragm, and Fazor™ phase management, accurately reproduce the original sound.

Edifier

There are physical buttons on the earcups of the S3 headphones, and additional controls can be found on the Edifier Connect app, which I covered in some detail during the NeoBuds Pro review.

Best non anc headphones for travelling. Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3 headphones. {Tech} for Travel. https://techfortravel.co.uk
<em>App control on the STAX SPIRIT S3 headphones Image Edifier<em>
Element Cases Under $40

Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3// Specifications

Dimensions208 x 110 x 255mm
Weight329g
Colour OptionsBlack
ConnectivityBluetooth 5.2
USB-C
3.5mm
Driver89 x 70mm Planar Magnetic Driver
CodecsaptX
aptX HD
aptX Adaptive
SBC
PlaybackUp to 80 hours
Charge Time2 hours
Quick Charge10 mins = 11 hours
Battery1,500mAh
Microphones1
In the boxSTAX SPIRIT S3 headphones
Travel case
USB-A to USB-C cable
3.5mm cable
3.5mm adapter
2x Earcups
Manuals
Websiteedifier.com

Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3// Pricing

The Edifier STAX SPIRIT S3 wireless headphones are $399 at edifier.com.

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VIATom Payne
SOURCEEdifier
Tom Payne
Tom, Editor. An online publication providing news & reviews on apps, gadgets and luggage for the connected traveller.

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