Final UX5000

The Final UX5000 is part of the Japanese brand’s UX series and presents itself as a wireless headset designed for on-the-go use. It draws inspiration from the development of the A10000, a model equipped with a diamond diaphragm, to deliver sound reproduction that aims to retain the precision of wired earphones while integrating modern features: hybrid noise cancellation, extended battery life, and compatibility with high-resolution codecs LDAC and aptX Adaptive HQ.

Acoustic design born from high-end expertise

The UX5000 directly benefits from the knowledge accumulated during the development of the A10000, Final’s flagship earphone that uses a genuine diamond diaphragm. This lineage is reflected in a meticulous approach to the headphone’s internal acoustic space. Final’s engineers made numerous adjustments to calibrate the response of the 40 mm dynamic driver, working on filter selection and the application of precise deadening—a technique that eliminates parasitic vibrations likely to color the sound.

The choice of System-on-Chip was not dictated solely by energy efficiency or features. Final selected Qualcomm’s QCC3095 primarily for its digital signal processing capabilities, prioritizing audio quality above all. This chip supports Sony’s LDAC codec, which allows wireless transmission up to 990 kbps, as well as Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive HQ, which dynamically adjusts the bitrate based on connection conditions.

The frequency response extends from 20 Hz to 40 kHz, broadly covering the audible spectrum and beyond, enabling the reproduction of the subtlest details in high-resolution recordings. This range exceeds that of many wireless headphones on the market, which generally top out at 20 kHz.

Noise cancellation designed to preserve faithful reproduction

The UX5000’s active noise cancellation system combines two approaches: a feed-forward microphone placed outside each earcup captures ambient noise, while a feedback microphone inside analyzes the acoustic signal actually emitted by the driver. This hybrid topology allows intervention across a wider range of unwanted frequencies.

Final’s algorithm stands out for limiting the use of heavy-handed equalization. On many ANC headphones, noise reduction is accompanied by significant low-frequency correction to compensate for perceived effects. Final chose instead to design a driver capable of withstanding the mechanical constraints induced by ANC without requiring excessive correction, better preserving the headphone’s natural sound signature.

Ambient mode lets you hear your surroundings without removing the headphones. Simply press the ANC button to switch between noise cancelling, ambient, and off modes. The mobile app also allows you to adjust these settings and control the intensity of each mode.

Wired connection with digital processing preserved

Unlike many wireless headphones that switch to pure analog mode when using a wired connection, the UX5000 continues to route the signal through its internal DSP (Digital Signal Processor). This ensures the sound signature remains consistent whether you’re listening over Bluetooth or via the included 3.5 mm cable.

This approach offers a practical advantage for certain uses: latency in wired mode drops to about one-tenth of Bluetooth’s, making the headset suitable for audio mixing, video editing, or gaming where perfect audio-video sync is essential. The DSP remains active, maintaining the acoustic corrections applied by Final.

Fit and comfort for extended wear

The Multi-Fit Housing system is another distinctive feature of the UX5000. The earcups can pivot in multiple directions—up, down, left, right—to precisely adapt to each user’s anatomy. This flexibility not only improves comfort but also reduces sound leakage and enhances bass perception by optimizing the seal between the ear pads and the contours of the ears.

The memory foam ear pads attach magnetically, making them easy to replace without tools. This modular design extends to the headband, which is also user-replaceable. The headband uses high-resilience foam that evenly distributes pressure across the top of the head, avoiding discomfort that can appear after several hours of listening. The headset weighs 310 grams, which remains reasonable for an over-ear model equipped with a 700 mAh battery.

The main control takes the form of a button stick, more intuitive than multiple buttons or sometimes finicky touch controls. A dedicated button lets you quickly switch between noise cancelling modes and ambient mode.

The UX series: evolution and positioning

The UX5000 succeeds the UX3000 and UX2000, launched in 2022 and 2023 respectively. The UX3000, Final’s first wireless noise-cancelling headphone, weighed 260 grams and already introduced the Shibo finish. It supported aptX Low Latency and offered 35 hours of battery life without ANC.

The UX2000, positioned as a more accessible alternative, dropped the Shibo finish in favor of a matte coating but retained 45 hours of battery life with ANC. This model only supported SBC and AAC codecs, limiting maximum audio quality.

The UX5000 stands out in several ways: support for Bluetooth 5.4 (versus 5.0 and 5.3 for previous models), compatibility with LDAC and aptX Adaptive HQ, battery life pushed to 65 hours without ANC, and above all, an acoustic design inspired by the work done on the A10000. The extended frequency range up to 40 kHz also reflects a stronger commitment to high-resolution reproduction.

Technical specifications

Audio performance

• Optimized 40 mm dynamic driver with precise damping to eliminate vibrations
• Qualcomm QCC3095 system-on-chip for high-precision digital processing
• LDAC codec compatible for high-quality wireless sound
• High-resolution sound quality
  • Crystal-clear highs and deep bass for faithful reproduction
  • Fine details and natural dynamics for all music genres: classical, jazz, rock, pop
  • High resolution comparable to that of high-end wired headphones

Noise cancellation and ambient mode

• Hybrid active noise cancellation combining feedforward and feedback
• Internal and external sensors to analyze ambient noise in real time
• Proprietary algorithm minimizing impact on sound quality
• Ambient mode to hear the outside environment when needed

Connectivity and compatibility

• Wireless connection with LDAC codec for high-fidelity audio transmission
• Multipoint connection to connect multiple devices simultaneously
• Option for wired use for ultra-low latency
  • Ideal for gaming, audio mixing, video editing, or connecting to a hi-fi player

Comfort and ergonomics

• Memory foam earpads for extended comfort
• High-resilience headband that evenly distributes pressure on the head
• Earpads and headband easily replaceable by the user
• Multi-Fit adjustment system
  • Flexible adjustment up, down, left, and right for a perfect fit
  • Reduced sound leakage and reinforced bass

Controls and app

• Directional button for intuitive navigation
• Noise-cancellation button to quickly activate noise-canceling and ambient modes
• final UX5000 app
  • Control of noise cancellation and ambient mode
  • 10-band equalizer for precise sound tuning
  • Advanced configuration and firmware updates

Design and durability

• Shibo coating resistant to scratches, dirt, and hydrolysis
• Premium, timeless appearance designed for extended daily use
• Battery replaceable via official service to extend the headphone’s lifespan

Included accessories

• USB Type-C cable for charging
• Semi-rigid case for transport and protection

Key benefits

• High-fidelity wireless audio with LDAC codec
• Effective active noise cancellation without loss of sound quality
• Extended comfort thanks to ergonomic earpads and headband
• Durable and aesthetically pleasing design
• Wired use possible for minimal latency
• Multipoint connection to easily switch between multiple devices