Austrian Audio The Composer

Designed and manufactured in Austria, the Austrian Audio Composer is the result of advanced sound engineering, aiming to deliver audio reproduction with exceptional precision and transparency. It is intended for demanding audiophiles and sound professionals seeking a no-compromise listening tool, capable of revealing every nuance of a recording with remarkable fidelity.

Design and Manufacturing: The Austrian Heritage

Austrian Audio’s commitment to quality is fully evident in the design of the Composer. As the heir to a rich tradition of Austrian audio engineering, this headphone is meticulously assembled, reflecting an attention to detail that is the hallmark of exceptional products. The robustness of the materials used and the precision of the assembly ensure not only long-term durability but also consistent acoustic performance. The choice of an open-back architecture for The Composer allows for an airy and natural soundstage, a feature highly valued for critical and immersive listening. This design also promotes extended listening sessions without auditory fatigue, avoiding the acoustic pressure inherent to closed-back headphones.

Durability is a cornerstone of the Composer’s design philosophy. Every component is selected for its longevity and ability to withstand intensive use. Notably, the headphones are designed to be fully repairable, underscoring Austrian Audio’s commitment to offering a sustainable product, far from planned obsolescence. This responsible approach ensures your investment is protected and that the headphones can accompany you for many years, with the possibility of replacing parts if necessary.

At the Heart of Audio Performance: The Hi-X49DLC Transducer

The cornerstone of The Composer’s sonic capabilities lies in its 49 mm dynamic transducer, featuring advanced Hi-X49DLC technology. This innovation marks a significant evolution for Austrian Audio, which previously used 44 mm transducers in its models. “DLC” refers to an amorphous carbon (Diamond-Like Carbon) coating applied to the transducer diaphragm. This material gives the diaphragm increased rigidity while maintaining optimal weight.

The improved rigidity of the diaphragm is crucial for faithful sound reproduction. It allows the transducer to move with extreme precision, even during significant dynamic variations, thus minimizing signal distortion. This control over diaphragm movement results in a faster and sharper impulse response, essential for conveying the subtlest details and the texture of instruments. The result is high-fidelity sound reproduction, where every note and timbre are presented with remarkable clarity and authenticity.

Uncompromising Sound Clarity

The Composer stands out for its ability to deliver exceptional sound clarity and outstanding acoustic precision. Its linear frequency response allows the sound spectrum to be reproduced with fidelity that respects the original intent of artists and sound engineers. High frequencies are rendered with finesse and extension, giving music a sense of space and detail. The midrange is articulate and present, allowing voices and instruments to stand out naturally.

Bass reproduction is another strong point of The Composer. Unlike some headphones that artificially boost the bass, this model delivers it with impressive depth, texture, and control, without any excessive coloration. This bass precision is particularly appreciated for musical genres that rely on solid rhythmic foundations. Moreover, the total harmonic distortion (THD) remains remarkably low, ensuring signal purity even at high listening levels. This means the sound remains clean and unaltered, offering an immersive experience where every element is distinct and clear. The soundstage it creates is wide and intelligently structured, allowing for precise localization of instruments and voices in space.

Comfort and Ergonomics for Hours of Listening

Comfort is an essential criterion for headphones intended for long listening sessions, and The Composer excels in this area. With a moderate weight, it provides a pleasant fit that does not put excessive strain on the head or neck. The circumaural design, which fully encloses the ear, combined with memory foam ear pads, ensures a soft fit and balanced pressure distribution.

The innovative headband system is designed to optimize ergonomics. The ear cups are adjustable and tiltable, adapting to different head shapes for a perfect fit over the ears. The headband incorporates a mesh material that promotes ventilation, reducing heat buildup and perspiration even during extended listening. Additionally, the ear pads are easily replaceable thanks to a magnetic attachment system, simplifying maintenance and extending the life of the headphones. These combined features make The Composer an ideal listening companion for audiophiles and professionals who spend many hours in front of their audio system.

Extensive Connectivity and Adaptability

The versatility of The Composer is enhanced by its comprehensive connectivity options. Aware of the various existing audio setups, Austrian Audio has included no fewer than three detachable cables in the package, each featuring a banana connector on the headphone side, ensuring a reliable and robust connection. You’ll find a 3-meter cable with a 3.5 mm (TRS) jack for universal compatibility with most portable audio devices and computers. For more demanding systems and professional equipment, a 3-meter 4-pin XLR cable is provided, allowing for balanced connection and better noise immunity. Finally, a 1.4-meter cable with a 4.4 mm Pentaconn-style connector is included, specifically targeting digital audio players (DAPs) and portable headphone amplifiers equipped with balanced outputs.

Additionally, a 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm adapter is also provided, further increasing the possibilities for connecting to home hi-fi equipment or professional audio interfaces. This array of cables and adapters eliminates the need to purchase additional accessories and ensures that The Composer can integrate seamlessly into almost any audio setup, from portable configurations to high-end studio systems.

Technical Specifications

Audio Specifications

• Frequency response: 5 Hz – 44 kHz
• Sensitivity: 112 dB SPL / V
• Total harmonic distortion (at 1 kHz): < 0.1%
• Transducer size: 49 mm
• Impedance: 22 Ω
• Input power: 160 mW

Design

• Type: Open-back circumaural

Connectivity

• Detachable cables with banana connector (included)
  • 3 m with 3.5 mm jack (TRS)
  • 3 m with 4-pin XLR
  • 1.4 m with 4.4 mm Pentaconn-style connector
• Included adapter: 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm

Dimensions and Weight

• Dimensions: 215 × 200 × 90 mm
• Weight (without cable): 385 g