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

  • Beautiful design and build quality with premium materials, like a magnesium yoke and genuine leather headband
  • Good comfort with memory foam earpads and breathable cloth, though some find the pads shallow
  • Well-rounded tonal balance with surprisingly strong bass for an open-back headphone
  • Easy to drive and forgiving with different audio sources
  • Clear and spacious sound presentation, with accurate imaging

Product Considerations

  • The price point may be higher than some consumers want to pay
  • The relatively small size might not fit all head shapes comfortably
  • Stock cable is reported to have memory and be unwieldy
  • Sound staging isn't the widest

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Focal Azurys: Some prefer the sound of the Azurys for some songs and use cases
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600: Hadenys has improvements in the bass and treble response, and there's more oomph and weight in the bass
  • Vs Focal Clear MG: Hadenys manages to provide a remarkable amount of Clear MG for a lower price
  • Vs Focal Elex: dynamics are not on par with the Focal Elex
  • Vs Sennheiser HD 660S2: The Focal manages to feel as solid, while looking better, wearing better and sounding better

Takeaway: The Hadenys offers a stylish design, comfortable fit, and well-rounded sound, making it a versatile headphone for enjoying music at home. Its solid construction and easy-to-drive nature make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a premium listening experience.

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

Hadenys

reviews

[{"title":"Focal Azurys and Hadenys Dual Review: The Focal Evolution","link":"https://headphones.com/blogs/reviews/focal-azurys-and-hadenys-dual-review-the-focal-evolution","source":"Headphones.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Focal Hadenys Headphone Review","link":"https://www.avforums.com/reviews/focal-hadenys-headphone-review.22181","source":"AV Forums","datePublished":""},{"title":"Focal Hadenys Review","link":"https://headfonics.com/focal-hadenys-review","source":"Headfonics","datePublished":""},{"title":"Focal Hadenys review","link":"https://www.soundguys.com/focal-hadenys-review-117165","source":"SoundGuys","datePublished":""},{"title":"Hands on: Focal Hadenys review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/hands-on-focal-hadenys-review","source":"What Hi-Fi","datePublished":""},{"title":"Focal Hadenys Review","link":"https://majorhifi.com/focal-hadenys-review","source":"MajorHiFi","datePublished":""},{"title":"The Focal Hadenys Review - Does it replace Elex?","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24RDrmaCojU","source":"Joshua Valour","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Focal Hadenys & Azurys | Reviewing the Differences","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O465F8gR4U8","source":"Skeeb23","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Best Headphones: Focal Hadenys Open-Back Headphones","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UIfh74Cy2d8","source":"THE ABSOLUTE SOUND","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"New Focal headphones for 2024! Azurys & Hadenys Review","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3-XPOHbd7g","source":"The Headphone Show","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"First Look 29 Focal Hadenys: One of the best Sub $1k headphone","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LUboiCDcVyI","source":"ZP Productions","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Hi-Fi For Bri | Azurys v Hadenys Headphone Edition pt3!!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kRqD4x-IOl0","source":"Skeeb23","datePublished":"2025"},{"title":"Focal Bathys | Hadenys | Azurys Review - Only ONE Winner","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c_-6lBW-Yzs","source":"Scarz","datePublished":"2025"}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

Manufacturer details

  • Product type: Open-back headphones
  • Loudspeakers: 15/8'' (40mm) Aluminium/ Magnesium 'M'-shaped dome
  • Frequency response (+/- 3dB): 25 Hz - 22 kHz
  • Harmonic distortion rate: <0,2 % @ 1 kHz / 100 dB SPL
  • Impedance: 26 Ω
  • Maximum SPL (peak@1m): 105 dB SPL
  • Weight: 294 g / 0.65 lb
  • Connector: Jack 3.5 mm, Jack 6.35 mm
  • Carrying case depth: 7 cm
  • Carrying case height: 24 cm
  • Carrying case width: 21 cm
  • Cables provided: • 1X 6ft (1.8m)Jack 1/8" (3,5mm) • 1 x adapter 1/4" (6.35mm)
Open-back headphones for the home, Hadenys combines contemporary design with hi-fi quality. Fitted with exclusive Focal speaker drivers, they deliver warm sound with remarkable depth and precision. In addition to its acoustic performance, Hadenys stands out for its comfort and elegant aesthetics.
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:

  • Focal monitors are noted for their "mid-forward" sound, guiding users toward balanced mixes, particularly in the midrange frequencies, which aids in crucial EQ and dynamics decisions.
  • They integrate an inverted dome tweeter crafted from Aluminum/Magnesium or Beryllium, optimizing high-frequency dispersion and minimizing distortion through back wave absorption.
  • Focal frequently employs flax or "W" composite sandwich cones in their mid-bass drivers, providing a lightweight yet rigid diaphragm construction that delivers exceptional definition and controlled bass.

Theva

  • Positioning: The entry-level series in Focal's high-fidelity lineup.
  • Description: Features Focal's signature technologies like the TNF tweeter for clear treble. Compared to the Aria Evo X, offers a more budget-friendly option with simpler cabinet designs. While it lacks the advanced materials found in the Kanta series, still provides a solid performance for its price range, suitable for basic home audio setups.

Aria Evo X

  • Positioning: Sits in the mid-range of Focal's lineup, offering a balance between performance and affordability.
  • Description: Features flax cone technology, providing natural sound and excellent dynamics. More refined than Theva, offering better build quality and soundstage.

Kanta

  • Positioning: A premium series, offering advanced technology and design.
  • Description: Known for their innovative design and use of materials like the Flax sandwich cone and Beryllium tweeter, delivering precise and detailed sound. They offer a more sophisticated sound profile than Aria Evo X, with enhanced clarity and warmth.

Sopra

  • Positioning: A high-end series, just below the flagship Utopia line, focusing on compactness and performance.
  • Description: Excels in sound transparency and precision, featuring technologies like the Infinite Horn Loading system for improved treble. They offer a richer harmonic experience than Kanta.

Utopia III Evo

  • Positioning: Focal's flagship series, representing the pinnacle of their speaker technology.
  • Description: Renowned for their exceptional sound quality and luxurious design, incorporating technologies like the Beryllium tweeter and W composite sandwich cone. They surpass Sopra in every aspect, offering groundbreaking soundstage and detail, ideal for large dedicated listening rooms and those with no budget constraints.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
239
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
10
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
79
Founding Year
1979

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.

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
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Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Focal
Clear MG
1499
1499
/
9
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent build quality with premium materials, creating a premium feel
  • Wide and spacious soundstage
  • High-level transparency and detailed technical performance when paired with a proper source
  • Comfortable design, suitable for long listening sessions
  • Good bass quality, articulate and well-controlled

Product Considerations

  • Cannot reach its full potential with low-powered portable sources
  • Bass performance is less impactful compared to closed-back headphones
  • Tuning may seem too colored or far-from-neutral for some listeners
  • Strong clamp force—can be a little tight
  • Upper treble might be fatiguing

Takeaway: The Focal Clear MG offers a spacious and detailed listening experience with a comfortable design, making it enjoyable across various music genres when paired with the right equipment. It strikes a good balance between technical performance and musical enjoyment for those seeking a premium open-back headphone.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Focal
Clear Mg Professional
1499
1499
/
5
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Extreme precision and remarkable tonal balance between bass, mids, and highs due to the magnesium driver
  • Comfortable to wear for extended periods due to the memory foam ear pads and lightweight aluminum frame
  • Detailed and focused soundstage, which is described in terms of depth for easy placement of elements in a mix
  • The open-back design creates a listening experience where it feels like not wearing headphones at all—lending a sense of spaciousness
  • Remarkable detail in the high end without harshness or fatigue

Product Considerations

  • Requires a run-in period to stabilize the drivers and achieve optimal sound
  • Open-back design is not ideal for recording or isolated listening environments
  • Differences in bass response are noticeable if the fit is not adjusted properly
  • Positional variation accounts for discrepancies in measurement of the Clear MG Pro, due to the angled driver design, small pad openings and the spring-loaded headband
  • Some might find the sound a bit stark for casual listening, especially those who prefer thumping bass or a warm top end

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Compared to Audeze LCD-MX4 and HEDD Audio HEDDphones, the Clear MG Professionals come surprisingly close to matching the dynamic impact and thump of the Audeze

Takeaway: The Clear MG Professional headphones are a great choice for mixing and mastering because they deliver a balanced and detailed sound. They are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, making them useful for studio work or critical listening at home.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
ZMF
Atrium
2499
2499
/
13
Reviews
ZMF is a boutique hifi headphone brand that crafts one-of-a-kind wooden headphones from stabilized resin-wood billets, each harvested, processed, and assembled in the USA. Their patented acoustic systems include the Atrium Damping System (ADS) and the Caldera's trapezoidal magnet structure. The brand offers lifetime driver warranties and maintains measurement transparency using professional B&K equipment. They have created a distinct enthusiast culture around their annual "ZMF November" limited-edition sales.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Stunning aesthetics and high-quality craftsmanship with various wood options and grill designs available
  • Creates a wonderful sense of space with a great spherical soundstage and natural depth
  • Has an amazing ability to be both smooth and detailed at the same time
  • Provides a deep reaching and encompassing bass sound with a punchy and impactful profile
  • Natural and lifelike tonal quality with vibrant midrange and textured vocals

Product Considerations

  • Not ideal for those seeking maximum detail retrieval or a reference-level sound
  • May not be the best choice for music that relies heavily on aggressive, distorted electric guitars due to potential mid-range harshness
  • Bass extension may not reach as deep as some planar headphones
  • The stock cable has shape memory, and some may prefer aftermarket options
  • It's a heavier headphone, so comfort may be a concern for some users

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs ZMF Verite: The Atrium sits alongside it, and is a significant step above the Auteur, in the sense that it is competing absolutely with the Verite, whereas the Auteur doesn't quite reach the heights of the Verite
  • Vs Sennheiser HD650: The Atrium overall tuning is very reminiscent of the Sennheiser HD 650, where it is still fairly neutral, but it tends towards a little bit of warmth
  • Vs HIFIMAN HE1000 V2: The HE1000 V2 has a bigger soundstage, but the imaging and the separation handle spatial reproduction much better than the Atrium does

Takeaway: The ZMF Atrium offers a beautiful design and a unique sound signature that combines smoothness and detail, making it a very enjoyable listening experience across many genres. Its ability to create a lifelike and engaging soundstage makes it a worthwhile option for those looking for something special.

Video review

Our take on the brand

ZMF is a boutique hifi headphone brand that crafts one-of-a-kind wooden headphones from stabilized resin-wood billets, each harvested, processed, and assembled in the USA. Their patented acoustic systems include the Atrium Damping System (ADS) and the Caldera's trapezoidal magnet structure. The brand offers lifetime driver warranties and maintains measurement transparency using professional B&K equipment. They have created a distinct enthusiast culture around their annual "ZMF November" limited-edition sales.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Mod House Audio
Tungsten
1699
1699
/
11
Reviews
Mod House Audio builds high-impedance planar headphones (≈155 Ω) with sound quality rivalling summit-tier options at far more reasonable prices, though have a reputation for being among the most difficult headphones to power properly, attracting enthusiasts who prioritize performance over efficiency. Offering user-selectable single or double-sided magnet drivers with 24k gold conductors and extensive Cerakote ceramic customization options.
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Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Nice cable made in partnership with Viking Wave
  • Attractive design with some components being 3D printed
  • Comfortable to wear with well-distributed weight and ZMF earpads
  • Stands out with its 'warm yet balanced' sound signature, described as having flat bass extension and an emphasized lower mid-range
  • Delivers instrument separation, and sounds reasonably spacious

Product Considerations

  • Build quality can feel a little rough around the edges, which may be noticeable
  • Requires a dedicated headphone amplifier
  • The dual-sided version is more expensive, while the single-sided version is affected by pressure changes inside the pad
  • Sound can come across a little bit crunchy and trebly

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Against Audeze MM500, the MM500 has better build quality
  • Against Meze Empyrean 2, the Empyrean 2 is more comfortable
  • Against Dan Clark Audio E3, the E3s overall sound more competent

Takeaway: The Modhaus Tungsten is a unique headphone built with care. It's enjoyable to listen to, has good bass extension, and the sound can be customized by swapping earpads.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Mod House Audio builds high-impedance planar headphones (≈155 Ω) with sound quality rivalling summit-tier options at far more reasonable prices, though have a reputation for being among the most difficult headphones to power properly, attracting enthusiasts who prioritize performance over efficiency. Offering user-selectable single or double-sided magnet drivers with 24k gold conductors and extensive Cerakote ceramic customization options.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

FIIO
FT7
699
/
Released
2025
The FT7 features a 106mm large planar driver with a patented gold + silver multi-layer coating, 1μm thin special diaphragm, zebrawood grille, and uniform magnetic field. It employs a dual-sided neodymium magnet push-pull magnetic circuit system, weighs 427g with carbon fiber construction, includes lambskin/breathable fabric ear pads, and comes with a liquid nitrogen frozen monocrystalline copper cable and custom Yaoli linen storage bag.
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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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

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
Neumann
NDH 30
649
/
Released
2022
The NDH 30 is a circumaural, open-back headphone with outstanding detail resolution and high-precision stereo imaging with razor-sharp localization. Its linear soundstage and superior transient response recommend it for the most demanding applications such as mixing and mastering.
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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.
Expand Details

Our Summary

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
Thieaudio
Wraith
549
/
Released
2022
The original Phantom planar magnetic headphone from THIEAUDIO was an instant success when it launched three years ago. It was a revolutionary community-based product that set the standard for Hi-Fi audio at an affordable price range. From those baselines, the THIEAUDIO team has spent the last three years developing an upgraded planar magnetic driver that redefines technical performance and tonal balance.
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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
Expand Details

Our Summary

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
Sennheiser
HD 660S2
679
/
Released
2023
Enjoy your music on a completely new level. An intimate, relaxed sound signature combines with outstanding precision and exceptional comfort — and now, extended sub bass — for a deeply moving experience.
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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

  • Improved bass response compared to the original HD 660S and other HD 6XX series headphones adds warmth and a richer, fuller sound
  • Lightweight design (around 260g) and comfortable earpads make them suitable for extended listening periods
  • Detailed and nuanced sound, with a well-balanced midrange and smooth treble, provides a clear and crisp listening experience without being overly analytical
  • Precise imaging allows for accurate instrument placement and a good sense of sound direction
  • It comes with both 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm single-ended cables, providing connectivity options for various sources

Product Considerations

  • Some feel the price is high for the level of upgrade compared to the original HD 660S, especially with other competitive options available
  • While the bass is improved, it's not a bass-heavy headphone and might not satisfy those seeking a thunderous bass response
  • The clamping force can be a bit tight out of the box, which may cause discomfort for some users
  • The soundstage isn't exceptionally wide, which may not be ideal for those seeking a very spacious and out-of-head experience
  • The build quality, while durable, does not feel as premium as other headphones in the same price range due to the extensive use of plastic

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The HD 660S2 is generally considered an improvement over the HD 660S, primarily due to the enhanced bass response and slightly smoother sound
  • The Sivga SV023 offers a brighter, crisper sound for less money, while the HD 660S2 provides a fuller, more vocal-oriented sound
  • The Harmonic Dyne G200 is more exciting and energetic, but has a less natural tonality and may be less comfortable
  • The Meze 109 Pro is a better headphone in almost every way, but it is more expensive and may be a little sibilant for some listeners
  • HD 660 S2 offers better sub-bass reach and imaging, but the Sennheiser HD 650 still remains unmatched for male vocals
  • The HIFIMAN Edition XS sounds bigger, deeper, and wider, while HD 660S2 is more about the tonality

Takeaway: The HD 660S2 is a comfortable and well-rounded headphone with a more balanced and enjoyable sound signature than its predecessor, especially with its improved bass response. It's a great choice for those who appreciate a smooth, detailed, and easy-to-listen-to headphone for various genres.

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
MIRPH
MIRPH-1
749
/
Released
2024
Enter MIRPH-1. The first high-end headphone designed to last a lifetime. Due to its modular construction, every component can be replaced by you. Engineered and handcrafted in Munich, Germany. It is the perfect companion no matter if you use it for audio production, gaming, or simply to listen to your favorite tracks at home.
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MIRPH is a one-person boutique hifi headphone brand. Founder Homero designs, assembles, and hand-finishes every pair in Munich. The headphones feature truly modular construction where every component can be user-replaced. He aims to deliver exceptionally smooth, warm sound. The brand publishes raw frequency response measurements for transparency and focuses on a "relax-first" sonic identity that reviewers consistently describe as fatigue-free.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • The MIRPH-1 offers a modular design, making it easy to replace individual parts if they break or fail.
  • Reviewers praise the sound quality, describing it as well-balanced, smooth, gentle, and non-fatiguing.
  • The headphone is easy to drive, working well with a variety of sources, including smartphones and laptops, making it convenient for casual users.
  • The earpads are large and comfortable, providing ample space for the ears.
  • Build quality is solid, with a combination of 3D-printed cups, stainless steel, and aluminum components.

Product Considerations

  • The headband rods can slide too easily, requiring frequent readjustment.
  • The open-back design results in high sound leakage, which may disturb others nearby.
  • The stock cable feels a little cheap to some reviewers.
  • The soundstage isn't particularly huge.
  • Some electronic music tracks push transducers to their limits, those limits will become audibly evident on the MIRPH-1, especially at higher volumes.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HIFIMAN Ananda Nano: The MIRPH-1 is more resolving, slightly more holographic, and slightly more textured, but only apparent with a resolving signal chain.
  • Vs Sennheiser HD650: The MIRPH-1 is comparable to the HD-650 without the veil and also comparable to the Clears.
  • Vs Rosson RAD-0: MIRPH-1 reminds a bit of Rosson RAD-0, but Rosson was much smoother, much bassier, but also had less detail.

Takeaway: The MIRPH-1 is a well-built, comfortable headphone that delivers a smooth and relaxing listening experience. Its modular design and easy driveability make it a convenient option for audiophiles and casual listeners.

Video review

Our take on the brand

MIRPH is a one-person boutique hifi headphone brand. Founder Homero designs, assembles, and hand-finishes every pair in Munich. The headphones feature truly modular construction where every component can be user-replaced. He aims to deliver exceptionally smooth, warm sound. The brand publishes raw frequency response measurements for transparency and focuses on a "relax-first" sonic identity that reviewers consistently describe as fatigue-free.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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