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

  • Clear, detailed, and lively sound with a focus on vocals and spaciousness
  • Lightweight and comfortable, allowing for long listening sessions
  • Hand-assembled with beautiful materials like maple, hemp, and cocobolo wood
  • Impressive soundstage, a step up from previous Grado headphones
  • Good separation and definition of instruments

Product Considerations

  • Bass response has noticeable roll-off, not suited for bass-heavy genres
  • Mids can be a little forward, and upper mids on the RS1X were slightly reedy
  • The on-ear fit may not be comfortable for everyone
  • The cable is a bit short for some users
  • Open-back design leaks sound, not practical in all environments

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs GS3000X: RS1X emphasizes upper frequencies, while GS3000X focuses on a big, strong sound
  • Vs original RS1: RS1x is significantly more transparent, alive, and dynamic, with tighter and faster bass
  • Vs Audeze LCD2: RS1x has forward momentum and excitement, while LCD2 has a softer presentation
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600: RS1x is more vivid, while HD600 is more laid back and relaxed
  • Vs beyerdynamic T1 (3rd Generation): RS1x is comparable in fleet-footedness, though T1 has greater solidity and refinement

Takeaway: The RS1x is a great choice for those who appreciate clarity, detail, and a vibrant sound signature with a focus on vocals, and they are very light. For open headphones that look as good as they sound, these are worth checking out.

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

RS1x

reviews

[{"title":"Glorious Grados: RS-1X headphone and Platinum3 cartridge","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uoLKRsp1Ei4","source":"Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac","datePublished":"2022"},{"title":"GRADO HEADPHONES: TOP-OF-THE-RANGE STATEMENT (GS3000x) AND REFERENCE (RS1x) MODELS REVIEWED!","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iMdVVuooy9g","source":"Steve Guttenberg Audiophiliac","datePublished":"2023"},{"title":"GRADO RS1X - Review, Recensione, Sound Demo, Sound Test","link":"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ULKYSHW5EQE","source":"Headphone PH","datePublished":"2024"},{"title":"Grado RS-1x Review – Fortified - Everyday Listening","link":"https://everydaylistening.net/2022/02/11/grado-rs-1x-review-fortified/2","source":"everydaylistening.net","datePublished":""},{"title":"Grado RS1x review","link":"https://www.whathifi.com/reviews/grado-rs1x","source":"whathifi.com","datePublished":""},{"title":"Grado RS1x Reference Series Headphone","link":"https://headphone.guru/grado-rs1x-reference-series-headphone","source":"headphone.guru","datePublished":""}]
An excellent review of a great product
/
Publisher
/
3/1/2022
An excellent review of a great product
Publisher
/
3/1/2022

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:

  • The brand's headphones are known for their open-back design which trades noise isolation for an expansive and airy soundstage favored by audiophiles.
  • Grado largely retains a characteristically "vintage" or "retro" design, despite ongoing component upgrades, making them visually distinct and instantly recognizable.
  • They are designed for easy amplification, working well even with smartphones without requiring dedicated headphone amplifiers.

GW100X

  • Positioning: The entry-level wireless model that removes the wires without compromising Grado's signature sound.
  • Description: Features Bluetooth 5.2, a 44mm reengineered X Series driver, and a long battery life designed for on-the-go listening. Compared to the wired SR325x and RS1x, it offers the convenience of wireless connectivity while sacrificing some of the refined acoustics and build complexity found in higher-tier models.

SR325X

  • Positioning: A Prestige Series option focused on delivering clear, precise imaging through a metal housing design.
  • Description: Uses a metal chassis with redesigned wiring and an 8-conductor super annealed cable to enhance sound transparency and instrument separation. When compared to the wireless GW100X and the more detailed RS1x, it provides a practical, wired solution that balances clarity with a straightforward build.

RS1X

  • Positioning: A Reference Series model aimed at achieving natural, balanced sound through a tri-wood design.
  • Description: Uses 50mm X Series drivers matched with maple, hemp, and cocobolo woods to provide a spacious and natural tonal character. In contrast to the simpler SR325X and the larger, more driver-intensive GS3000x, it offers a balance between sophistication and approachable performance.

GS3000X

  • Positioning: A Statement Series headphone positioned to deliver an expansive soundstage with detailed imaging.
  • Description: Uses a new 52mm X driver with a cocobolo wood housing and hybrid metal chamber to reduce distortion and boost dynamic range. Compared to the RS1x's balanced approach and the HP100-SE's flagship engineering, it offers a refined build with robust cable design for enhanced sonic clarity.

HP100-SE

  • Positioning: The flagship Signature Series model that pays homage to Grado's heritage with advanced driver technology and modern design.
  • Description: Introduces a completely redesigned 52mm driver featuring a paper composite cone, high flux magnetic circuit, and detachable cables for improved transient response and precise tonal accuracy. Relative to the GS3000x's detailed imaging, it represents the most premium option with superior build quality and innovative performance enhancements.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
6
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
447
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
13
Founding Year
1953

Our take on the brand

Grado, a Brooklyn-based hifi brand, was founded by Joseph Grado, who invented the stereo moving-coil phono cartridge in 1959 and earned induction into the Audio Hall of Fame. The company continues to hand-assemble products in the same Brooklyn building their family purchased in 1918. Known for unique engineering approaches, the brand created the world's first open-back Bluetooth headphone (GW100), and uses unusual materials like hemp/maple composite cups.

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?

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From our interview with
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Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
Grado
GS3000x
1995
1995
/
4
Reviews
Grado, a Brooklyn-based hifi brand, was founded by Joseph Grado, who invented the stereo moving-coil phono cartridge in 1959 and earned induction into the Audio Hall of Fame. The company continues to hand-assemble products in the same Brooklyn building their family purchased in 1918. Known for unique engineering approaches, the brand created the world's first open-back Bluetooth headphone (GW100), and uses unusual materials like hemp/maple composite cups.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Effortlessly detailed and fluid sound is delivered, as well as impressively articulate midrange.
  • High efficiency allows it to be easily driven by a variety of sources, from smartphones to high-end amplifiers.
  • The use of cocobolo wood paired with a metal chamber is praised for its aesthetic and sonic properties, creating a unique and attractive design for each unit.
  • Extremely comfortable and lightweight, making it suitable for long listening sessions.
  • Has a vast and engaging sound that embodies the classic open and energetic Grado headphone sound.

Product Considerations

  • Open-back design offers next to no isolation, causing sound leakage.
  • Some reviewers felt lacked the luxurious feel expected at its price point.
  • The cable is bulky, doesn't straighten easily, and can drag the lightweight headphones off a desktop if not careful.
  • Stock foam earpads look plain and cheap.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sennheiser HD800S and Focal Clear Mg, it lacks some of the low-frequency weight and punch.
  • Vs Focal Utopia (2022), the GS3000x has a left/right soundstage space, while Utopia has a clearer 360-degree picture, despite its more intimate 'around head' soundstage; GS3000x bass is more assertive and punchy, but the Focal reaches deeper, with greater control and refinement.
  • Vs Grado RS1x, bass is more accurate and tactile, and feels faster and more surefooted; it offers a more natural and balanced overall listening experience.

Takeaway: The Grado GS3000x is a wonderfully musical and entertaining headphone that makes music come alive, especially for listeners who appreciate a bright, vivid, and detailed sound. Its comfortable design and high efficiency make it enjoyable for long listening sessions at home or on the go.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Grado, a Brooklyn-based hifi brand, was founded by Joseph Grado, who invented the stereo moving-coil phono cartridge in 1959 and earned induction into the Audio Hall of Fame. The company continues to hand-assemble products in the same Brooklyn building their family purchased in 1918. Known for unique engineering approaches, the brand created the world's first open-back Bluetooth headphone (GW100), and uses unusual materials like hemp/maple composite cups.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Grado
GS1000x
1195
1195
/
3
Reviews
Grado, a Brooklyn-based hifi brand, was founded by Joseph Grado, who invented the stereo moving-coil phono cartridge in 1959 and earned induction into the Audio Hall of Fame. The company continues to hand-assemble products in the same Brooklyn building their family purchased in 1918. Known for unique engineering approaches, the brand created the world's first open-back Bluetooth headphone (GW100), and uses unusual materials like hemp/maple composite cups.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Lightweight design and large ear cups distribute pressure, making them comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Excellent instrumental separation, allowing listeners to easily follow individual musical lines and appreciate production nuances
  • Reproduces midrange and treble detail beautifully and purely
  • Delivers a vivid and almost forensically detailed sound that is almost endlessly absorbing
  • Even, naturalistic tonality

Product Considerations

  • Not ideal for listeners prioritizing heavy, chest-thumping bass, as the bass is somewhat rolled off in the mid to lower frequencies
  • May reveal defects in hot or poorly recorded treble
  • Leaks sound readily, making them best suited for solo listening
  • Headband adjustment mechanism is rudimentary and squeaky

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Audeze LCD-X: Both are single-minded, but the Audeze LCD-X offers a planar magnetic driver for a 'reference' sound ideal for detailed recording analysis

Takeaway: The Grado GS1000x headphones offer a comfortable listening experience and reveal a lot of musical detail. If listeners want to explore and appreciate the nuances in music, these could be the headphones for them.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Grado, a Brooklyn-based hifi brand, was founded by Joseph Grado, who invented the stereo moving-coil phono cartridge in 1959 and earned induction into the Audio Hall of Fame. The company continues to hand-assemble products in the same Brooklyn building their family purchased in 1918. Known for unique engineering approaches, the brand created the world's first open-back Bluetooth headphone (GW100), and uses unusual materials like hemp/maple composite cups.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Grado
Signature HP100 SE
2495
2495
/
3
Reviews
Grado, a Brooklyn-based hifi brand, was founded by Joseph Grado, who invented the stereo moving-coil phono cartridge in 1959 and earned induction into the Audio Hall of Fame. The company continues to hand-assemble products in the same Brooklyn building their family purchased in 1918. Known for unique engineering approaches, the brand created the world's first open-back Bluetooth headphone (GW100), and uses unusual materials like hemp/maple composite cups.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Neutral, uncolored, and music producer-tuned sound makes it the most neutral headphone ever produced by Grado Labs.
  • Improved components such as all-aluminum hand-machined housing, steel gimbaled ear cup supports, a 52mm paper and carbon fiber driver, and a powerful magnet assembly.
  • Comfort is superior due to 50% more leather in the headband, providing a stable fit.
  • Deep and well-rendered bass, maintaining extreme clarity through the mid-band and high-band.
  • Has detachable compatible 4-pin XLR balanced cables, a first for Grado headphones.

Product Considerations

  • The HP100 SE can reveal flaws in recordings, sounding etched or steely if the source material is poorly produced.
  • The included cable may be heavy and stiff.
  • Synergy with DAC and amp is crucial, as the headphone can lean bright with certain setups, with one reviewer finding the sound bright with their Schiit Modius and Midgard stack.
  • The alternative F pads are uncomfortable and dampen the sound.
  • One reviewer noted a rolling off nature in the low sub-bass region.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs GS3000x: The HP100 SE is more neutral, transparent, and dynamic, while the GS3000x has a warmer sound that some may prefer for casual listening.

Takeaway: The Signature HP100 SE headphones deliver detailed, neutral sound and are Grado's new flagship product. With a comfortable design and detachable cables, these headphones offer a top-tier listening experience and are made for the Grado fan.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Grado, a Brooklyn-based hifi brand, was founded by Joseph Grado, who invented the stereo moving-coil phono cartridge in 1959 and earned induction into the Audio Hall of Fame. The company continues to hand-assemble products in the same Brooklyn building their family purchased in 1918. Known for unique engineering approaches, the brand created the world's first open-back Bluetooth headphone (GW100), and uses unusual materials like hemp/maple composite cups.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Grado
Signature S950
2195
2195
/
2
Reviews
Grado, a Brooklyn-based hifi brand, was founded by Joseph Grado, who invented the stereo moving-coil phono cartridge in 1959 and earned induction into the Audio Hall of Fame. The company continues to hand-assemble products in the same Brooklyn building their family purchased in 1918. Known for unique engineering approaches, the brand created the world's first open-back Bluetooth headphone (GW100), and uses unusual materials like hemp/maple composite cups.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Video review

Our take on the brand

Grado, a Brooklyn-based hifi brand, was founded by Joseph Grado, who invented the stereo moving-coil phono cartridge in 1959 and earned induction into the Audio Hall of Fame. The company continues to hand-assemble products in the same Brooklyn building their family purchased in 1918. Known for unique engineering approaches, the brand created the world's first open-back Bluetooth headphone (GW100), and uses unusual materials like hemp/maple composite cups.
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
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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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.
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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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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