Review of Latest Phones for Music Lovers & Audiophiles
For music lovers and audiophiles, a smartphone is more than just a communication device—it's a portable music player that needs to deliver exceptional sound quality, support high-resolution audio, and offer features tailored to an immersive listening experience. In 2025, several flagship and mid-range phones stand out for their audio prowess. This review dives into the latest smartphones that cater specifically to music enthusiasts, evaluating their audio hardware, software, and unique features.
1. Sony Xperia 1 VII
Sony has long been a favorite among audiophiles, and the Xperia 1 VII continues this legacy with its focus on high-fidelity audio.
Key Audio Features:
- Hi-Res Audio Support: Certified for Hi-Res Audio and Hi-Res Audio Wireless, supporting formats like FLAC, DSD, and LDAC for Bluetooth streaming.
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack: A rarity in 2025, this allows audiophiles to use wired high-impedance headphones without a dongle.
- Dynamic Vibration System: Enhances music and video playback with subtle haptic feedback synced to audio.
- Stereo Speakers: Tuned with Sony’s 360 Reality Audio, delivering immersive soundscapes for compatible tracks.
- Audio Tuning: Dedicated audio settings with a customizable equalizer and DSEE Ultimate for upscaling compressed audio.
Pros:
- Exceptional wired and wireless audio quality.
- Robust music app with support for Sony’s 360 Reality Audio platform.
- Headphone jack is a major win for purists.
Cons:
- Premium price point.
- Battery life could be better during extended music playback.
Verdict:
The Sony Xperia 1 VII is a top choice for audiophiles who prioritize wired audio and high-resolution playback. Its 3.5mm jack and LDAC support make it a standout, though its price may deter casual listeners.
2. Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung’s flagship Galaxy S25 Ultra combines powerful hardware with audio features that appeal to music lovers looking for versatility.
Key Audio Features:
- Dolby Atmos Support: Provides immersive 3D audio for music, movies, and games.
- 32-bit Hi-Fi DAC: Ensures clean, high-fidelity sound output through USB-C wired connections.
- AKG-Tuned Stereo Speakers: Deliver crisp and balanced sound with strong bass response.
- Bluetooth 5.4 with aptX HD: Supports high-quality wireless audio streaming.
- Sound Assistant App: Offers granular control over audio output, including per-app volume settings and equalizer tweaks.
Pros:
- Rich, loud speakers with excellent clarity.
- Versatile audio customization options.
- Seamless integration with Samsung’s ecosystem for music streaming.
Cons:
- No 3.5mm headphone jack.
- aptX HD is great but lags behind Sony’s LDAC for wireless audio.
Verdict:
The Galaxy S25 Ultra is ideal for music lovers who want a premium all-rounder with strong audio performance, especially for those who rely on wireless headphones or streaming services like Tidal and Spotify.
3. Google Pixel 9 Pro
Google’s Pixel 9 Pro brings a clean, software-driven audio experience with a focus on integration with streaming platforms.
Key Audio Features:
- Spatial Audio with Head Tracking: Optimized for Google’s Pixel Buds Pro, creating a theater-like experience.
- Tensor G4 Audio Processing: Enhances real-time audio upscaling for compressed files.
- Stereo Speakers: Well-balanced with good mid-range clarity, though bass is less pronounced than competitors.
- Seamless Google Integration: Direct support for YouTube Music and Google Cast for multi-room audio setups.
Pros:
- Excellent software-driven audio enhancements.
- Smooth integration with Google’s ecosystem for streaming.
- Affordable compared to other flagships.
Cons:
- No dedicated DAC for wired audio.
- Lacks a headphone jack and advanced Bluetooth codecs like LDAC.
Verdict:
The Pixel 9 Pro is a great pick for music lovers who prioritize software simplicity and streaming integration over raw audio fidelity. It’s less suited for audiophiles with high-end wired setups.
4. ASUS ROG Phone 9
Designed for gamers but surprisingly adept for audio enthusiasts, the ASUS ROG Phone 9 offers unique audio features that make it a contender.
Key Audio Features:
- Dual Front-Facing Stereo Speakers: Powered by Dirac tuning, offering loud and clear sound.
- ESS Sabre DAC: A dedicated 32-bit DAC for superior wired audio quality.
- 3.5mm Headphone Jack: A welcome feature for audiophiles using high-end wired headphones.
- aptX Adaptive Support: Ensures low-latency, high-quality Bluetooth audio.
- GameFX Audio Software: Provides detailed audio profiles for music and gaming.
Pros:
- Powerful and clear front-facing speakers.
- Dedicated DAC and headphone jack for wired audio excellence.
- Highly customizable audio settings.
Cons:
- Bulky design may not appeal to non-gamers.
- Software interface can feel cluttered.
Verdict:
The ASUS ROG Phone 9 is a hidden gem for audiophiles who want both a headphone jack and top-tier audio hardware. Its gaming-focused design might not suit everyone, but its audio capabilities are undeniable.
5. Nothing Phone (3)
The Nothing Phone (3) offers a stylish, budget-friendly option with surprisingly good audio for its price range.
Key Audio Features:
- Dual Stereo Speakers: Tuned for clarity and balanced output.
- Hi-Res Audio via USB-C: Supports high-resolution audio with compatible DACs.
- Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX and AAC: Decent wireless audio quality for the price.
- Minimalist Music App: Clean interface with basic equalizer settings.
Pros:
- Affordable price for solid audio performance.
- Sleek, unique design appeals to younger music fans.
- Reliable battery life for long listening sessions.
Cons:
- No 3.5mm headphone jack.
- Audio quality lags behind flagship competitors.
Verdict:
The Nothing Phone (3) is perfect for casual music lovers on a budget who still want decent audio quality and a modern design. It’s not an audiophile’s dream but punches above its weight.
Comparison Table
| Phone | Headphone Jack | Hi-Res Audio | Bluetooth Codecs | DAC | Unique Feature |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony Xperia 1 VII | Yes | Yes | LDAC | Built-in | 360 Reality Audio |
| Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra | No | Yes | aptX HD | 32-bit | Dolby Atmos |
| Google Pixel 9 Pro | No | Partial | AAC, SBC | None | Spatial Audio with Head Tracking |
| ASUS ROG Phone 9 | Yes | Yes | aptX Adaptive | ESS Sabre | Dirac-Tuned Speakers |
| Nothing Phone (3) | No | Yes (USB-C) | aptX, AAC | None | Minimalist Design |
For audiophiles seeking the ultimate music experience, the Sony Xperia 1 VII and ASUS ROG Phone 9 stand out with their headphone jacks and dedicated audio hardware. The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is a versatile flagship with excellent wireless and speaker performance, while the Google Pixel 9 Pro excels for streaming enthusiasts. Budget-conscious music lovers will find the Nothing Phone (3) a compelling option.
When choosing a phone, consider your priorities: wired vs. wireless audio, streaming vs. local files, and whether you need a headphone jack. Each of these devices offers something unique for music lovers, ensuring there’s a perfect pick for every listener in 2025.
