Austrian Audio Hi-X15 vs SHURE SRH1540: Which Over-Ear Headphones is Better

Austrian Audio produces Hi-X15 full-size closed-back headphones that deliver high sound quality with High Excursion technology for the studio, stage, rehearsal, or touring environment.

With the SRH1540, the manufacturer Shure has headphones in its range that, according to its statements, should be the right choice both in the studio and for “passionate audio lovers.” A closed design, a frequency range that goes all the way down, and hopefully the usual good Shure quality. All good reasons to take a closer look at the Shure SRH1540. 

Pros and Cons

Specification

Design & Features

Austrian Audio Hi-X15 – closed-back headphones. The structure is foldable, the arch and the hinge are metal. The model uses 44mm Hi-X (High Excursion) series, drivers. By reducing the moving mass, the drivers are distinguished by impressive dynamic performance and fast response.

The ear cushions are made of soft memory foam, so they are comfortable to wear for any user. The declared frequency range is 12 Hz – 24 kHz. The model is suitable for household listening and monitoring. Hi-X15 comes with a detachable 1.4m cable, a 3.5mm plug, and a 6.3mm adapter.

The design of the Austrian Audio Hi-X15 also left me no criticism. The headphones look stylish, obviously more expensive than their price. The design is made of matte plastic and metal; the design beautifully combines several shades: black, red, and silver. The build is good, which is important given the foldable form factor. The headband adjustment has a clear click; the cups rotate freely, the model is comfortable to wear around the neck.

Thanks to the large ear cushions covered with soft leatherette and filled with memory foam, the novelty can provide quite serious passive noise isolation. However, I will note that the sound can be slightly audible outside.

As for the comfort of the fit – the Hi-X15 are held firmly on the head, their grip is firm, the arc is a little firm, but the headphones still feel incredibly light, so they do not get tired at all. Indeed, their weight is only 255 g.

SHURE SRH1540- The headphones come in a striking design, but they don’t need to hide. The materials used all look very robust; the headphones are mostly made of aluminum and carbon. This ultimately leads to a low weight of 292 grams, which is pleasantly light even for longer sessions.

The first impression after opening is very good. The headphones are pleasantly light, but the contact pressure could be slightly higher for my taste. The Alcantara ear cushions pleasantly surround my ears, overall very good wearing comfort.

The construction of the SRH1540 is solid, so you should enjoy it for a long time. The bracket that sits on the head is covered with synthetic leather; plastic is only used in places in ​​the auricles. The inside of the ear cups are lined with soft Alcantara, and there is even a second pair of ear pads in the headphones’ packaging.

The generously proportioned scope of delivery also includes a storage and transport box, two 180 cm long Y-cables, and a gold-plated 6.3 mm jack adapter. The cables can be removed accordingly. The transport box alone would be considered an optional extra by other manufacturers, and a second cable is not included with all headphones. 

Conclusion!

The two headphones Hi-X15, Austrian Audio, also addresses beginners and budget-conscious people in the recording studio. The entry into this price range is very successful.

The headphone convinced with an overall good sound and quality. The supplied accessories offer everything a musician needs: cables, adapters, soft case, and instructions.

The Shure SRH1540 likes to play imposing and clearly shows what a good, prominent bass range looks like. That doesn’t necessarily have to be bad because that’s perfectly fine for certain recording applications.

The quality is very good, especially high-quality materials such as aluminum and carbon are used. This ensures a pleasantly lightweight and a high level of comfort. In terms of sound, the SRH1540 convinces with its very clear highs and accurate bass range.