The SIVGA SV021 Pro is a daring successor to the revered headphone that came before. It’s always interesting when a company attempts a follow-up to an established legend, but sometimes lightning does strike twice. Curiously, SIVGA goes in an unexpected direction with this “Pro” variant, something that I was initially surprised by, but ultimately came to appreciate. Here is my review.
A different direction
The biggest change in the SV021 Pro is the introduction of a 50mm aluminum diaphragm dynamic driver, instead of the coated diaphragm used in the original. This is intended as an upgrade to help deliver greater clarity, especially when it comes to mids and the high-end.
On the outside, the SV021 Pro still rocks that classic SIVGA style. The earcups are handmade using natural wood, with beechwood or zebrawood finishes available. Both variants look outstanding and, I think, highly fashionable.
Good lookin’, but how’s comfort?
Comfort-wise, the SV021 Pro impresses with wide velour ear pads and a comfortable, yet sturdy, metal headband. After wearing them for three hours straight, I’m happy to confirm that these can go the distance and remain comfortable.
When it comes to compatibility, the SV021 Pro’s 45-ohm impedance means that it’s easy to drive. I had no issues across my collection of portable devices and the high-quality included cable is a nice bonus.
The sound
Focusing on the sound then, here’s what I like about the SV021 Pro. Midrange clarity is clearly a priority for this headphone, with vocals coming through clearly. For me, this is preferred, given the genres I listen to, but it could well be too much for some.
When gaming, I was impressed by the width of the soundstage. This might be a closed-back, but it has similar width to my trusty DT770s. It’s perhaps not quite as wide, but it is surprisingly close!
Bass is where this headphone will spark a little controversy. Unlike the original, the SV021 Pro reduces bass emphasis in an effort to highlight the overall clarity of the mids and, to a lesser extent, treble.
It’s an interesting choice, but looking at it, it does sort of make sense as a “Pro” headphone built for more analytical listening. It just might surprise those expecting the Pro variant to be more of the same, but slightly better.
Disclosure: Review sample provided by SIVGA.
Final Verdict
At $179, the SIVGA SV021 Pro takes the series in a noticeably different direction. Instead of simply building on the original’s tuning, it prioritizes midrange clarity and a more analytical presentation. While the reduced bass emphasis may divide opinion, the result is a sound that feels deliberate and focused.
Combined with SIVGA’s trademark wooden design, strong comfort, and easy drivability, the SV021 Pro stands as a distinctive follow-up that won’t appeal to everyone, but offers a clear alternative for those who value clarity and detail.
Positives and Negatives
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Clear, detailed midrange presentation
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Wide soundstage for closed-back
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Very attractive handmade wooden earcups
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Comfortable velour pads and headband
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Easy to drive (45-ohm impedance)
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Tuning may divide listeners
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Less bass impact for some genres
