Website author headshot
Cameron Oatley
ExtremeHiFi
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi

Note that this is a discontinued product. You may want to visit the brand's page here to browse their newer products.

What reviewers think

Bloggers and YouTubers have tried this product—so we've summarized their strongest opinions below. Links to full reviews follow.

Product Strengths

  • Very comfortable and lightweight, making them suitable for long listening or gaming sessions
  • Wide and immersive soundstage, providing a good sense of an expanded environment and accurate instrument positioning
  • Excellent frequency response consistency
  • Excellent for mixing, mastering, and monitoring, flat, detailed bass, almost perfect mid-range, and the right amount of sparkle in the treble
  • Sound great for music, vocals, and spoken word

Product Considerations

  • Open-back design means sound leakage can be an issue in quiet environments
  • Bass frequencies are under-emphasized, which may require EQ adjustment
  • Relies heavily on plastic construction, which could impact long-term durability if not handled carefully
  • Some reviewers found them to be too bright
  • Can be power-hungry compared to other headphones, an amplifier may be beneficial

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Superlux HD668Bs, the K702s are a step up in a massive way, the HD668Bs were quite harsh on the treble and not the most comfortable for long-term use
  • Vs Shure SRH440s, the K702s are exceptionally comfortable compared to the SRH440s, which are a little heavy and kind of plasticky
  • Vs beyerdynamic DT 880 (600Ω), the K702 has more midrange and less bass; the DT 880 feels more durable and better built with more metal
  • Vs Audeze LCD-3, the K702 has more midrange and less bass

Takeaway: The K702 headphones are a comfortable and accurate choice for those needing a reliable studio reference or immersive listening experience, especially in quiet environments. Their open soundstage and balanced sound make them well-suited for critical listening and gaming, providing clarity and detail to audio.

What are hifi reviews useful for? (1) Identifying products you should demo in person at a dealer. (2) Learning which products reviewers unanimously praise as the best they've heard (this means they probably are legitimately great). (3) Identifying a product's attributes that satisfy your idiosyncratic needs and tastes. Beyond that, we often discount what reviewers say because they heap praise on most products—and are often apprehensive about publishing strong criticism or comparisons between products. Further, they seldom have more than a few products on-hand, often relying on their memories to compare past products. Always listen for yourself.

All

K702

reviews

[{"title":"AKG K702 Headphone Review | 6 Months Later","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uEMpt_B5hEA","source":"Marques Brownlee","datePublished":"2021"},{"title":"Should You Buy the AKG K702 Headphones? | Gear Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=toYwjZLwsTw","source":"FeralGinger","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"AKG K702 Reference Studio Headphone Review - Studio Reference Sound?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lcUlxMLqD9c","source":"Eric Ames","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"AKG K702 Headphone Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cPUyyK9G82g","source":"iiWi Reviews","datePublished":"2011"},{"title":"The AKG K702 Headphones - Honest Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l-vvbEfBJdg","source":"askdrtk","datePublished":"2019"},{"title":"Are the AKG K702 headphones worth buying?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-p6xpsBz3sM","source":"Clint the Audio Guy","datePublished":"2020"},{"title":"AKG K702 Reference Class HiFi Worthy Headphone Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZJxClRLMRwU","source":"Home Studio Basics","datePublished":"2018"},{"title":"AKG K702 - 1 Year Review","link":"https://fuzzywallz.com/akg-702-1-year-review","source":"fuzzywallz.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"AKG K702 review","link":"https://www.soundguys.com/akg-k702-review-73009","source":"soundguys.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"AKG K702 Review","link":"https://www.kenrockwell.com/audio/akg/k702.htm","source":"kenrockwell.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"AKG K702 Review: Still A Gold Standard In Mid-Fi?","link":"https://homestudiobasics.com/before-you-buy-an-akg-k702-read-this","source":"homestudiobasics.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"AKG K702 Headphones Review","link":"https://www.rtings.com/headphones/reviews/akg/k702","source":"rtings.com","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Frequency Range: 10 Hz – 39,800 Hz
  • Sensitivity: 105 dB SPL/V @ 1 kHz
  • Impedance: 62 Ω
  • Maximum Input Power: 200 mW
  • Cable Length: 3 m
  • Detachable Cable: Yes
  • Earpads Replaceable
  • Headphone Type: Open-Back, Over-Ear (Circumaural)
  • Headband: Genuine-Leather, Self-Adjusting
The AKG K702 are wired, open-back, over-ear reference headphones designed for critical studio work. They deliver precise, spacious audio via flat-wire voice coils and Varimotion diaphragm technology, and offer refined comfort—3 D-foam pads and leather headband. Specs include 62 Ω impedance, 105 dB SPL/V sensitivity, 10 Hz–39,800 Hz frequency bandwidth, 200 mW max input power, detachable 3 m cable, and serial-numbered QA.
Manufacturer Site

Brand highlights

Taking a step back to look at reviewers' thoughts of the brand's entire lineup—not just this product—what stands out most is the following:

  • AKG studio headphones are frequently recognized for their wide and immersive soundstage, creating a great sense of depth and accurate placement .
  • The brand delivers a near-neutral sound profiles in its headphones, catering to the needs of audio professionals and critical listeners.
  • They often utilize a distinctive "hammock-style" self-adjusting headband that equally distributes weight, enhancing comfort for extended listening sessions.

AKG N5 HYBRID

  • Positioning: The entry-level true wireless earbuds designed for everyday portability and effective noise cancellation.  
  • Description: Features 10mm dynamic drivers with DLC-coated diaphragms, True Adaptive Noise Cancelling controlled by the AKG Headphones app, and immersive spatial audio that delivers clear call quality. Compared to higher-end models like the N9 Hybrid, these earbuds focus on affordability and ease of use while still offering Hi-Res sound for casual listening and light communication.

AKG K371-BT

  • Positioning: The mid-range wireless headphone that combines Bluetooth and wired connectivity for studio-style performance on the go.  
  • Description: Offers a closed-back, foldable design with a built-in microphone and dual connectivity options that cater to both mobile and desktop use. Compared to the N5 Hybrid earbuds, they provide a traditional headphone form factor with enhanced durability and sound isolation, though they deliver fewer advanced audio features than the immersive N9 Hybrid.

AKG N9 HYBRID

  • Positioning: The mid-tier over-ear headphone that integrates advanced noise cancelling and Hi-Res audio for extended listening.  
  • Description: With 40mm dynamic drivers using Liquid Crystal Polymer diaphragms and customizable True Adaptive Noise Cancelling, these headphones offer detailed spatial audio and superior call quality. In contrast to the more compact N5 Hybrid earbuds, the N9 Hybrid is suited for longer sessions in noisy environments while still being more portable than the high-end reference models.

AKG K872

  • Positioning: The high-end reference closed-back headphone engineered for critical studio monitoring and mastering.  
  • Description: Uses 53mm transducers with a 1.5 Tesla magnet system and a two-layer voice coil within an optimized closed-back design to deliver authoritative low frequencies and accurate imaging. Compared to the N9 Hybrid, the K872 prioritizes maximum isolation and reference-grade fidelity for professional monitoring, while offering a robust, durable build for prolonged studio use.

AKG K812

  • Positioning: The flagship open-back reference headphone crafted for detailed mixing and high-end audio production.  
  • Description: Features the largest 53mm transducer ever built by AKG, a powerful 1.5 Tesla magnet system, and an ultra-lightweight two-layer voice coil, delivering pure, natural sound with exceptional spatial imaging. In contrast to the closed-back K872, the K812's open design provides an expansive soundstage and enhanced comfort.
See All Products
Avg. Product Price
$500
Used For Sale
0
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
809
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
23
Founding Year
1947

Our take on the brand

AKG pioneered several groundbreaking headphone technologies, including flat-wire voice coils and the Varimotion two-layer diaphragm. The brand also created the legendary C12 tube condenser microphone with its distinctive CK12 capsule and launched the first dynamic cardioid microphone in 1953, earning a Technical GRAMMY Award in 2010 for contributions to recording technology.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?

What's your approach to customer support?

What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
.
Brand Page

Used

AKG

No items found.
No items found.

What if you spend more?

Product image
FIIO
FT7
699
699
/
11
Reviews
FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Uses premium materials like carbon fiber, metal, sheep lambskin earpads, and zebra wood faceplates for a luxurious feel, with excellent build quality
  • Has a mostly neutral sound signature, with lambskin pads bass response is very good with a tasteful emphasis placed on the sub-bass region, and a decent midrange
  • Provides good detail retrieval, resolution, and transparency of sound, the drivers can show plenty of information and micro detail
  • A pad swapping system allows changes to sound characteristics, with lambskin pads and breathable fabric pads included
  • Comes with a quarter-inch adapter and a 4-pin XLR adapter for use with portable or desktop devices

Product Considerations

  • The stock cable is 3 meters long, which is too long for desktop use
  • Headband adjustment can be a little stiff to move
  • With leather pads, the highs can get slightly sharp
  • There is a slight sharpness in the upper treble that might pose a problem for some listeners, using fabric pads can mitigate this
  • Weight distribution could be better, there's not enough padding on the headband, and the clamp force is low, this distributes all the weight across the top of the head, which can be bothersome after 40-50 minutes

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HiFiMan Susvara: Has a similar driver structure
  • Vs HiFiMan HE1000 Unveiled: Is close in terms of technical performance like resolution, transient response, soundstage, depth, and openness
  • Vs HiFiMan Arya Stealth: Has a better build quality and bass response

Takeaway: The FiiO FT7 is a well-built, comfortable headphone that offers a neutral-leaning-warm sound that can be tailored with different earpads. The FT7 competes with other headphones that cost significantly more, making it a great pick at its price point.

Video review

Our take on the brand

FiiO stands out for integrating unique features into portable audio devices, such as their BTR7 DAC/amplifier with its screen and wireless charging, and their KB3 mechanical keyboard with a built-in DAC/amp. The brand caters to audiophiles seeking personalization through products like their pioneering X7 music player with interchangeable amp modules and their compact R7 desktop system that combines streaming, DAC, and headphone amplification capabilities.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Neumann
NDH 30
649
649
/
11
Reviews
Neumann pioneered studio recording technology by creating the first mass-produced condenser microphone in 1928 and introducing then-novel features like remotely switchable polar patterns. The company also manufactured the record-cutting lathes that defined vinyl mastering—a rare dual legacy. The brand offers faithful reissues of historic microphones built from original blueprints and studio monitors with phase linearization DSP, serving professional recording engineers and classical music producers who demand period-correct sonics and precise acoustic control.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent stereo separation for mixing and monitoring
  • Built with aluminum, it has a durable feel
  • Designed for reference listening
  • Clean, linear, and very detailed mids

Product Considerations

  • Sound can be considered somewhat restrained, lacking upper midrange and low to HF 'hype'
  • Cloth ear pads may not feel as soft or luxurious as velour pads on some other headphones
  • Lacks impact and bite
  • Headband padding is uncomfortable
  • Single-entry cable is on the right side, which is an unusual placement

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser HD650: Differences come down to something similar to a full-range studio monitor versus a full-range hifi speaker of equal build quality and similar design, Sennheisers are geared more towards enjoying the brain-pleasing sounds of music, while you probably want to mix with the Neumanns
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600/650: The HD600 and HD650 are more comfortable, with a better industrial design than the NDH-30

Takeaway: The Neumann NDH 30 is a tool that can be very helpful for mixing sessions, especially for identifying details in the mid-range of a mix. Its design and build quality also make it a lasting product.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Neumann pioneered studio recording technology by creating the first mass-produced condenser microphone in 1928 and introducing then-novel features like remotely switchable polar patterns. The company also manufactured the record-cutting lathes that defined vinyl mastering—a rare dual legacy. The brand offers faithful reissues of historic microphones built from original blueprints and studio monitors with phase linearization DSP, serving professional recording engineers and classical music producers who demand period-correct sonics and precise acoustic control.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Thieaudio
Wraith
549
549
/
10
Reviews
Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The Wraith features an all-metal alloy body that feels sturdy and durable
  • The earcups feature a rotating mechanism, making it convenient to rest the headphones around the neck
  • The design is considered stylish, industrial, and unique
  • The suspension headband design distributes weight evenly, making it comfortable to wear for long listening sessions

Product Considerations

  • The Wraith's headband adjustment system is not very practical and requires a screwdriver to adjust
  • Stock pads may not create the best seal, impacting sound isolation
  • The soundstage is intimate, and the resolution is average
  • The 2.5mm connectors on the earcups might limit replacement cable options
  • Sub-bass can roll off with stock pads

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HiFiMan Edition XS: The Edition XS has better resolution, clarity, and sub-bass response out of the box, but the Wraith has superior build quality, materials, robustness, and comfort
  • Vs Sendy Audio Aiva: The Wraith and Aiva share a similar bass roll-off
  • Vs Moondrop Venus: The Moondrop Venus costs slightly more and provides a wider soundstage and more refined sound

Takeaway: The ThieAudio Wraith has excellent build quality and a unique design, making them durable and comfortable for many users. The sound is warm and laid-back, making them suitable for casual listening.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
HIFIMAN
Arya Stealth Magnets
599
599
/
10
Reviews
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Very comfortable, even for extended listening sessions, due to a suspension strap design and large earcups.
  • Soundstage is large and open, creating a concert-like experience with sounds coming from a distance and feeling like a three-dimensional experience.
  • Deliver detailed and transparent sound, making it possible to hear all the nuances in music.
  • Easy to drive with high sensitivity, though still benefit from a dedicated amplifier.

Product Considerations

  • Some reviewers find the bass lacking in punch, preferring a more pronounced bass response.
  • Treble might sound a touch bright and fatiguing, depending on the music and amplification.
  • Build quality isn't mind-blowing for the price; made of plastic and metal, not always appropriate for long-term durability.
  • Stock cable isn't the most wonderful, a little bit stiff.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Audeze LCD-X 2020: Arya Stealth has better resolution and soundstage, but the LCD-X has a more visceral bass and organic sound.
  • Vs HiFiMan Ananda: Arya Stealth is better, with more bass, crisper resolution, and a bigger soundstage; everything is sharper, clearer, better resolved, and more refined.
  • Vs Sennheiser HD800S: Arya has a slightly V-shaped profile, while the HD800S is smoother with a more neutral tuning; both trade blows equally regarding soundstage, imaging, and resolution.
  • Vs HiFiMan Sundara: Arya Stealth has deeper bass response and cleaner sound, while Sundara is warmer and more mid-centric, with darker treble.
  • Vs Sendy Audio Peacock: Arya has clearer, more transparent, and more detailed treble, but Peacock's bass is heavier and more impactful, its midrange is fuller and smoother.
  • Vs HiFiMan Edition XS: Arya Stealth is more comfortable and feels better built, but both have a similar sound, with the Edition XS having a slightly punchier bass.

Takeaway: The Arya Stealth Magnets are great for listeners looking for exceptional imaging, transparency, and clarity in their music, offering a high-end sound experience with a spacious soundstage. These headphones are a good option for audiophiles who want a detailed and engaging listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

Sennheiser
HD 560S
279
/
Released
2020
With linear acoustics tailored to extended listening sessions and smooth, gratifying bass performance, the HD 560S was crafted for the analytical audio enthusiast.
Check Amazon
Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The HD 560S delivers a flat sound profile that should suit most musical genres
  • Very comfortable, with a relatively lightweight design and plenty of plush padding
  • Soundstage is exemplary
  • Lightweight and provide a nimble feel
  • Excels in delivering both vocals and instruments with a remarkable level of clarity and precision

Product Considerations

  • Some users might find it a bit dull over time due to its conservative sound signature
  • Can be a bit intense at times in the lower treble
  • The plastic construction does not scream luxury
  • Some loss of texture in the mid-bass, with bass notes of different instruments often sounding the same

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs AKG K702: 560S' sound is going to feel a bit closer, but it may not always be a good thing when trying to hear what is farther off in the distance, for gaming
  • Vs Sennheiser HD58X: The 560S is cleaner and more accurate sounding than the HD58X
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600: The 560S is more intimate and livelier sounding than the darker HD600
  • Vs HIFIMAN Sundara: Compared to the more expensive Hifiman Sundara, the 560S sounds like it lacks detail across the frequency spectrum, except in the sub bass region where the Sundara does not seem to dig as deep

Takeaway: The Sennheiser HD560S is a comfortable headphone with a well-balanced sound, making it a solid choice for both gamers and music enthusiasts looking for neutrality and clarity. It is a versatile headphone for various genres and applications.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sennheiser pioneered the world's first open-back headphones with the HD 414 in 1968, which became the bestselling full-size headphone of all time, and later developed the HD 25, evolving from 1980s broadcast use to become the industry standard in DJ booths worldwide. The brand is known for unique engineering approaches, such as integrating high-voltage amplifiers directly into earcups with Carrara marble chassis in the HE 1, developing proprietary ring-radiator transducers and absorber technology to eliminate resonances, and creating the long-running MD 421 microphone that has remained in production since 1960.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
SIVGA
Phoenix
299
/
Released
2020
32Ω low impedance, easy to drive. With just a good audio source paired with a regular phone and computer, you can fully unleash the sound quality effects. Using a professional player makes it even more complementary and adds icing on the cake.
Check Amazon
SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Beautifully made with real wooden cups, nice metallic flourishes, and a nice adjustment system
  • Very easy to drive from any device due to its 32 ohm impedance and 103 dB sensitivity
  • The included hard case is of good quality and protective
  • Comfortable to wear for extended sessions due to its light weight (296g) and well-designed headband
  • Good soundstage width and overall space, with well-defined instrument separation

Product Considerations

  • Some reviewers with larger ears may find the earcups to be too small, causing discomfort
  • Lack of extra treble detail and energy means that some percussion misses its snap and shimmer
  • The headband size is pretty small, so if your head is on the large side, it might not fit
  • Stock earpads are too shallow for some users, causing their ears to touch the inside of the cups
  • The midrange can sound stuffy and veiled, lacking clarity and detail compared to some competitors

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Monolith M1060 V2: The Phoenix has better quality treble, but the M1060 has a better quantity of treble and a more neutral sound
  • Vs Sennheiser HD560S: The HD560S is a reference headphone designed to be analytical and neutral, while the Phoenix is colored, engaging, rich, and warm
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600: The Phoenix is warmer, has deeper sub-bass extension, and a wider soundstage, but the HD600 is more intimate, clear, and detailed in the mids and vocals
  • Vs beyerdynamic DT880: The DT880 has a midbass bump and clearer mids, while the Phoenix has better treble extension
  • Vs HarmonicDyne Zeus: The Zeus is a warmer set, but the Phoenix is better implemented
  • Vs Austrian Audio Hi-X55: The Phoenix has a more environmental feel when it comes to its sub-bass response and a wider soundstage, but the Hi-X55 has a sweeter vocal presentation

Takeaway: The Phoenix offers a warm, rich, and punchy sound signature in a beautifully designed and comfortable package that is easy to drive. It could be a great option for those who enjoy a bass-emphasized sound and listen to genres where extra bass is beneficial.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
SIVGA
Anser
199
/
Released
2024
High-quality wooden HiFi dynamic driver headphones with open-back design. Features self-developed 50mm dynamic drivers delivering full bass, wide soundstage, and clean natural sound.
Check Amazon
SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The Anser is wonderfully comfortable.
  • Exceptional build quality, with premium materials rarely seen at this price point.
  • It delivers a sound that's well-balanced across all frequencies.
  • The Anser is easy to drive from absolutely anything.
  • It has a nice sense of weight and presence in its sound, particularly in vocals and solo instrumentals.

Product Considerations

  • The soundstage is somewhat restricted in width.
  • The midrange is not great.
  • The stock cable is a little stiff.
  • Treble enthusiasts may occasionally find the presentation less energetic.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser HD 560s: The Anser is significantly more comfortable and feels better built than the HD 560s, but the HD 560s is a little brighter and sharper in the treble.
  • Vs Drop and Sennheiser HD 6XX: The Anser would win for most people on build quality and possibly comfort too, and is going to win for bass because extends down deep, and it's solid and full.
  • Vs Philips Fidelio X2HR: The X2HR has a wider, more open soundstage, and a little more nuance in the midrange.
  • Vs Sivga Oriole: The Anser has slight advantages, such as soundstage, which is still limited but nevertheless better than the Oriole.
  • Vs FiiO FT1 Pro: The Anser has a slightly warmer sound signature, with a more pronounced bass response.

Takeaway: The Sivga Anser offers great build quality and is very comfortable, making it a great choice for people who want a fun and engaging listening experience. This is a headphone that prioritizes musicality over technical prowess, offering an inviting sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
SIVGA
Luan
299
/
Released
2023
The Luan is a high-fidelity wired headphone featuring wooden ear cups and dynamic drivers. It delivers high-resolution sound with deep bass, soft and full midrange, clear detail separation, and refined, non-fatiguing treble.
Check Amazon
SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Excellent build quality, using premium materials like metal headbands and yokes, wood cups, and soft leather or velvet for comfort
  • Comfortable, with plush ear pads and a lightweight design, making it suitable for long listening sessions
  • Easy to drive and scales well with better gear
  • The sound signature has a good balance of detail, musicality, and accurate tonality, making it a versatile option
  • Clarity and separation of instruments with a good soundstage and decent imaging

Product Considerations

  • The included cable is of lesser quality compared to the build, noting its stiffness and memory effect
  • The bass response may not satisfy bassheads as it rolls off slightly in the sub-bass region
  • The treble and upper mids can be a bit forward or 'shouty', potentially causing listening fatigue for treble-sensitive individuals
  • The symmetrical design can make it difficult to quickly discern the left and right sides
  • The included case is not aesthetically pleasing to all reviewers

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser HD 600: The Luan has better bass and a larger soundstage, but the HD 600 is slightly better in tone and timbre
  • Vs Sivga Robin: The Luan has a different sound and build quality than the Robin, which is more aggressive
  • Vs beyerdynamic DT900 Pro X: The mids have better details on the DT900 Pro X

Takeaway: The Sivga Luan is a well-built and comfortable headphone with a balanced sound, making it a great choice for extended listening and versatile across different sources. It is a stylish, easy-to-drive headphone with enough punch and clarity to appeal to a wide range of listeners.

Video review

Our take on the brand

SIVGA is a hifi headphone brand recognized for its solid-wood cup finishing process that includes CNC carving, grinding, and polishing, with materials like walnut and zebrawood selected specifically for their acoustic properties. The brand focuses on desktop amplification users with high-impedance designs such as the 300Ω SV023.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
HE400se
109
/
Released
2022
HE400se — Affordable open-back planar magnetic headphones enhanced with Stealth Magnet design for reduced distortion.
Check Amazon
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Good build quality for the price
  • Comfortable, especially with the updated headband design
  • Decent detail retrieval and resolution throughout the frequency range
  • A good entry point for trying planar drivers
  • Good imaging and instrument separation

Product Considerations

  • Stock cable is of very low quality and microphonic, replacement is recommended
  • Sub-bass is lacking, and the bass response may not satisfy bass enthusiasts
  • Treble can get fatiguing with potential peaks
  • Pads flatten out quickly
  • An amplifier is needed to shine

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HIFIMAN Sundara: HE400se has a brighter sound, while the Sundara is smoother with a warmer quality, and the Sundara is significantly better overall and worth the upgrade
  • Vs HIFIMAN HD560S: HE400se has a smoother treble presentation

Takeaway: The HE400se provides a taste of planar sound at an affordable price and is great for those wanting to experiment with modifications. The HE400se is definitely worth it for anyone looking for open back headphones with great sound.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

How to buy

Headphones

Search all hifi products

Explore our database of 10,000+ new and 25,000+ used hifi products.