Our Verdict

I liked the Aful Performer 8S from the moment I plugged them in, no doubt influenced by its glitter-lined, slightly high school-art-project face plates (inspired by the rings of Jupiter, of course), which I absolutely love. It was also influenced by the incredibly comfortable fit, and the excellent cable that shines a pleasing, earthy brown and grey. But mainly it’s because the Performer 8S sounds smooth and addictive... Though it’s not all gravy. For $389 you don’t get swappable terminations, and I have some questions about this passive radiator 'driver'.

For

Smooth/detail balance

Good imaging

Thoughtful bass

Exciting & immersive

Against

Recessed vocals

Not ultra detailed

Why you can trust Creative Bloq

Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you.…