Nestled among the myriad of wired headphones that are somehow resisting the surge of true wireless, Final’s E500s have good press, despite their low price. Their reputation is not usurped, however, all is not rosy.
More library interiors than all-terrain companions, the E500s are clearly cut out for static use, indoors, in transport or at home. A lack of “versatility” which will also have repercussions on their sound signature, certainly absolutely stunningly clean, but whose excess of liveliness and cutting edge is a bit divisive. The heist of the century therefore does not take place, which does not prevent the E500s from being an interesting option if you are looking for simple intras, very affordable and above all with a very sound sound base, before — why not — investing to go upmarket and in performance.
Strong points
- Great sonic precision.
- Clear sound, very defined, good restitution of timbres.
- Very nice stereophonic width.
- Ultra lightweight design, five pairs of different sized eartips.
Weak points
- Sound reproduction a little too sharp, “frontal”.
- Extreme bass too timid.
- Particularly sensitive to structure-borne transmissions (contact noise, cable friction).
- Comfort and support of the headphones a bit too basic.
- No carry pouch, no foam tips/multi-flanges.
NB: The reported price drop is calculated by comparing the lowest price of the day with the average of the lowest prices charged by all merchants for the product last month, with security rules to exclude prices from shops whose the VAT policy is not clear (known as “grey” shops, typically in the case of imports from China).