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
- Crafted with premium black walnut wood, offering a unique and aesthetically pleasing design, and each headphone is unique due to the natural grain of the wood.
- A 50mm neodymium magnetic driver and a BIODYNA diaphragm made of biocellulose fiber contribute to detailed and accurate sound reproduction, wide dynamic range, and minimal distortion.
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended listening sessions, due to premium vegan leather pads and aluminum mechanical parts.
- Many different layers are revealed in the stereo field for great dimension, but the soundstage won’t extend too far outward, providing the listener a more intimate space for the tracks to operate in.
Product Considerations
- The stock cable is long, heavy, and stiff, and it uses Fostex's proprietary connectors, which some reviewers dislike and recommend replacing.
- Some reviewers found the high frequencies to be too bright, which could be fatiguing for some listeners over extended periods.
- The low end is considered moderate and may lack the visceral feeling or rumble desired by bass enthusiasts.
- The carrying pouch appears very bland and like an afterthought during development.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Fostex TH909, the TH616 features 50mm drivers with Fostex’s own Biodyna cones, as used in the high-end model.
- Compared to the beyerdynamic DT-990 Pro, the TH616 is V-shaped like the DT-990 Pro, a headphone infamous for its sonic faults.
Takeaway: The Fostex TH616 is a beautifully crafted headphone with great clarity and detail, offering an engaging listening experience. Pairing with a tube amplifier can enhance the sound by smoothing out the treble and expanding the soundstage.
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
TH616
reviews
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An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
Video Review
Manufacturer details
Features
Specifications
- Type: Open-back dynamic
- Driver: Φ50mm neodymium magnet / BioDyna diaphragm
- Impedance: 25Ω
- Sensitivity: 96dB/mW
- Maximum input: 1,800mW
- Frequency Response: 5 to 45,000Hz
- Weight: Approx. 370g (excluding cable)
- Cable: 3m Y-type (detachable connector terminal: 2-pin, rhodium plated)
- Plug: Φ6.3mm gold-plated stereo standard plug
Description
This product is a limited-quantity model released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Fostex. It is made of solid black walnut, a high-grade wood, carved in a design reminiscent of traditional Japanese woodwork, and finished in an open-type housing with solid acoustic performance. The headphones are carefully assembled one by one at a factory in Japan, combining a "Japanese" taste with excellent acoustic construction, and can be enjoyed as a new premium headphone.
Release Timeline
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:
- Fostex integrates traditional Japanese artistry, such as Urushi lacquering and Aizome dyeing, into the design of their headphone housings, amplified by the acoustic properties of materials like Japanese cherry birch and maple wood.
- They leverage their "Biodyna" driver technology, optimized with high magnetic flux densities (often using neodymium magnets), enabling detailed, dynamic, and low-distortion sound.
- Their headphones are designed to be easily driven by a wide range of devices, often featuring a low impedance (25-32 ohms) and high sensitivity, increasing versatility and convenience for users.
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Select product comparisons
TH616
- Position: The entry-level unit offering basic amplification and straightforward control.
- Description: Offers a simple design with clear controls suited for small room setups and limited connectivity, making it a budget-friendly option. Compared to the other models, it has a more basic feature set and lower output capabilities for users who do not require advanced performance or multiple functions.
TH808
- Position: A compact mid-range option focused on balanced performance.
- Description: Features a clean signal path and improved circuitry that supports better dynamic range and connectivity compared to entry-level models. Relative to the TH616, it delivers enhanced performance while maintaining a moderate price.
TH900MK2
- Position: A mid-range model with advanced digital control and refined tuning.
- Description: Incorporates digital tuning and smarter circuitry to boost clarity and responsiveness, making it well suited for varied room sizes and sonic goals. When compared with the TH616 and TH808, it provides a noticeable upgrade in audio detail and connectivity.
TH1100RP
- Position: A high-end integrated unit designed for higher resolution performance.
- Description: Offers robust processing and precise digital-to-analog conversion to deliver clean and powerful output for users with higher technical requirements. In contrast to the mid-range TH900MK2, it provides more detailed signal processing and expanded functionality.
T60RPMK2
- Position: A flagship model that brings premium control and complete feature integration.
- Description: Delivers groundbreaking performance with advanced components and a design focused on full connectivity and high-end sonic control. Compared to the lower-end models like the TH616 and TH808, it provides superior build quality and extensive functionality.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
0
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
780
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
16
Founding Year
1973
Our take on the brand
Fostex is a hifi headphone brand known for its proprietary 4th-generation RP planar-magnetic drivers, developed over 50+ years, BioDyna biocellulose diaphragms, and hand-finished Urushi lacquered housings on Japanese birch wood. With deep DIY speaker heritage, their T50RP platform has earned unique renown as a modding canvas, supported by extensive community documentation that treats it as a baseline for higher-end builds.
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What if you spend more?
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Fostex
TH808
1025
1025
/
8
Reviews
Fostex is a hifi headphone brand known for its proprietary 4th-generation RP planar-magnetic drivers, developed over 50+ years, BioDyna biocellulose diaphragms, and hand-finished Urushi lacquered housings on Japanese birch wood. With deep DIY speaker heritage, their T50RP platform has earned unique renown as a modding canvas, supported by extensive community documentation that treats it as a baseline for higher-end builds.
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Product Strengths
- Uses the same Tesla 1.5 driver as the TH-909
- Easy to drive with a 25 ohm impedance and high sensitivity rating
- Premium build includes black walnut wood on the ear cups
- Comfortable to wear for hours due to its relatively light weight (around 370-397 grams) and comfortable leather pads
- Nimble, fast, and punchy bass
Product Considerations
- Stock cable may not be high quality, and the braiding can crease quickly; the quarter-inch jack is not sturdy
- The swivel of the earcups is a little bit loose
- Stock pads may cause a sibilant sound
- Small soundstage
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Audeze LCD-X: The LCD-X has a safer mid-range tuning
- Vs Sennheiser HD 650: The TH808 sounds more impactful, and everything sounds sharper, clearer and cleaner
Takeaway: The Fostex TH808 is a beautifully designed headphone with premium materials that offers a unique sound signature with impressive detail and strong bass performance. With its comfortable design and ease of use, it could be a great option for those seeking an enjoyable listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Fostex is a hifi headphone brand known for its proprietary 4th-generation RP planar-magnetic drivers, developed over 50+ years, BioDyna biocellulose diaphragms, and hand-finished Urushi lacquered housings on Japanese birch wood. With deep DIY speaker heritage, their T50RP platform has earned unique renown as a modding canvas, supported by extensive community documentation that treats it as a baseline for higher-end builds.
Product Page
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HIFIMAN
Arya
1299
1299
/
14
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.
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Product Strengths
- Excellent resolution and detail retrieval, making it a clear step up from mid-fi headphones
- Wide and open soundstage with nuanced imaging, as well as excellent instrument separation
- Comfortable design, with well-distributed weight, large earcups, and comfortable earpads
- The Arya Organic is easier to drive than previous Arya versions and sounds better with various equipment, responding well to a decent system
- Balanced and neutral sound signature, though some find the treble slightly bright
Product Considerations
- Noted to lack dynamic weight and bass slam, which might disappoint bass enthusiasts
- Treble response can be fatiguing depending on the music and is somewhat peaky
- The 5kHz hump stretches vocals and make them timbrally thin at times
- Some reviewers express concern about the delicacy of the headphones and caution against dropping them
- The open-back design makes them unsuitable for noisy environments or situations where sound leakage is a concern
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Arya is sharper, clearer, and better resolved than the HiFiMan Ananda, with a more open soundstage, but the Ananda has more bass grunt
- Both have large soundstages and effortless resolution, but the Arya has a more excited tuning while the Sennheiser HD800S is smoother
- The Arya has a larger soundstage, but the Focal Clear has better punch and slam
Takeaway: The HiFiMan Arya is a technically impressive headphone that provides excellent sound clarity, a wide soundstage, and a comfortable listening experience. If you appreciate a neutral sound with great detail and aren't looking for heavy bass, the Arya could be a good choice.
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.
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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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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.
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Our summary
Product Strengths
- The Peacock uses long-lasting, high-quality materials in its construction, with minimal plastic, and has a handmade feel
- Comfortable to wear for long listening sessions due to its soft leather headband, memory foam earpads, and suspension strap system
- Good left-to-right soundstage and spatial qualities, with precise imaging
- Natural sound, focusing on the bass and midrange regions
- Easy to drive and has high sensitivity (103 dB per milliwatt), meaning it sounds good even with ordinary headphone jacks
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers describe the treble as metallic and unnatural, with an unwanted ringing or resonance that can be fatiguing
- Soundstage depth and imaging are not as impressive as its width, creating a 'tunnel-like vision' or 'b-dimensional' sound
- Detail retrieval and transparency are lacking compared to other headphones in its price range
- Heavy (578-580g), which may be a challenge for some listeners
- Aesthetics may not appeal to everyone due to mismatched design elements, resulting in a lack of cohesion in its appearance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Audeze LCD-X: Has a wider soundstage, but the LCD-X is more resolving, detailed, and technically proficient
- Vs HIFIMAN Arya Stealth: Has more impactful bass and a fuller midrange, while the Arya has clearer treble and greater detail retrieval
- Vs Audeze LCD-2: Vocals are more emphasized and engaging, but the LCD-2 is clearer and more detailed
- Vs Focal Clear MG: The Clear MG's are warmer with more bass impact, more even and forward mids, and darker, less peaky treble
- Vs Sendy Audio Aiva: Offers better looks, build quality, comfort, clarity, transparency and more details compared to the Aiva
Takeaway: The Peacock is a stylish and comfortable headphone that offers a warm, smooth, and enjoyable listening experience, especially for those who prioritize musicality over technical precision. Its easy-to-drive nature and wide soundstage make it a good option for relaxed listening sessions.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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.
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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.
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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.
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
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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
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HIFIMAN
Arya Stealth Magnets
599
/
Released
2020
An advanced diaphragm at the nanometer scale dramatically reduces mass, enabling lightning-fast response, lower distortion, and naturally detailed sound reproduction.
Specially shaped magnets allow sound waves to pass through without interference, minimizing diffraction and distortion for a cleaner, more accurate soundstage.
A precisely engineered grille reduces reflections and refractions, enhancing openness, imaging precision, and overall acoustic purity.
Specially shaped magnets allow sound waves to pass through without interference, minimizing diffraction and distortion for a cleaner, more accurate soundstage.
A precisely engineered grille reduces reflections and refractions, enhancing openness, imaging precision, and overall acoustic purity.
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
- 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.
Product Page
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Sendy
Aiva
599
/
Released
2019
After three and a half years of hard research and development, sound tuning, innovation and breakthrough, the black beauty planar magnetic series are finally formed. AIVA is a collection of countless efforts, from the overall industrial design, acoustic solutions to final production.
Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Premium build quality and materials, including zebrawood earcups, leather, aluminum, and steel
- Detailed and resolving sound signature, with an airy and extended high-end
- Wide soundstage and precise imaging for an immersive listening experience
- Comfortable for long listening sessions due to a well-designed comfort strap and plush earpads
- High-quality stock cable made of 6N single crystal copper
Product Considerations
- Can sound sharp or metallic if underpowered, requiring a powerful and warm source
- Bass response is somewhat reserved, lacking significant impact for some listeners
- Lower mids can lack presence and definition compared to the upper midsection
- Treble can be bright and fatiguing for some, and may exhibit mild veiling in densely orchestrated tracks
- Driver matching may not be perfect past 2kHz, potentially causing channel imbalance
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sivga P2 Pro: Aiva 2 sounds more balanced and relaxed with a warmer tonality compared to P2 Pro, which has a slightly brighter tonality due to a more elevated upper midrange
- Vs Sennheiser HD600: Aiva offers superior design, materials, cable, technicalities, and a wider frequency response
Takeaway: The Sendy Audio Aiva 2 is a beautifully crafted headphone that delivers a detailed and engaging sound, perfect for listeners who appreciate clarity and high-frequency sparkle. With its comfortable design and premium build, the Aiva 2 provides a luxurious listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
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