Austrian Audio has introduced a high-end open-back headphone in the form of The Arranger—and at a price that is considered very competitive in this category.
Let’s be clear: in the upper echelons of full-size open-back headphones, prices are generally high. In that respect, the new wired Austrian Audio The Arranger is (probably) not a purchase you make without thinking twice. At the same time, within the class it competes in, its price is exceptionally sharp.
As mentioned, the design is fully open-back and features a newly developed 44 mm dynamic driver. This driver is equipped with a diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating, intended to provide greater stiffness and control. The driver assembly, including the voice coil, is housed in a patented ring-magnet system, which should ensure fast transient response, low distortion, and deep, extended bass.
When wearing The Arranger, your ears rest on two suede ear pads made from synthetic leather. The headphone can be folded and weighs just 310 grams, making long listening sessions comfortable. Both the headband and ear pads are easily user-replaceable. As standard, the headphone uses a 3.5 mm 4-pin balanced connector, with a 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm adapter included.
That leaves the price of the Austrian Audio The Arranger: €999.