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
- 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.
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
Arya
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
- Impedance : 35Ω
- Sensitivity : 90db
- Frequency Response : 8Hz-65kHz
- Weight : 404g (14.3oz)
Description
HIFIMAN’s breakthrough ultra-thin diaphragm—at the nanometer scale—minimizes mass for lightning-fast response and extremely low distortion, delivering natural, highly detailed sound.
An optimized magnetic structure with asymmetrical placement reduces interference, enhancing clarity and overall sonic precision.
A precisely engineered grille design prevents reflections and refractions, expanding the soundstage while improving imaging and detail retrieval.
Angled, user-replaceable 3.5 mm connectors provide ergonomic cable routing and easy replacement.
Crafted from a combination of metal and high-grade plastics, the Arya achieves strength, low resonance, and a refined matte-black aesthetic.
An optimized magnetic structure with asymmetrical placement reduces interference, enhancing clarity and overall sonic precision.
A precisely engineered grille design prevents reflections and refractions, expanding the soundstage while improving imaging and detail retrieval.
Angled, user-replaceable 3.5 mm connectors provide ergonomic cable routing and easy replacement.
Crafted from a combination of metal and high-grade plastics, the Arya achieves strength, low resonance, and a refined matte-black aesthetic.
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:
- HIFIMAN offers a wide range of headphone models, varying in tonality from warm to neutral to balanced, allowing for different listening preferences and catering to various audiophile tastes.
- The brand is known for their "Stealth Magnet" design which reduces wave diffraction turbulence to lower distortion and improve transparency.
- They incorporate planar magnetic drivers in many of their headphones, known for their speed, detail, and impactful bass response.
Select products
Select product comparisons
EDITION XS:
- Positioning: An entry-level headphone offering compact design and affordability.
- Description: Features stealth magnets design with a frequency response from 8Hz to 50kHz and low impedance for basic home or portable use. Compared to the mid-range options like AUDIVINA and HE1000SE, it provides essential performance for smaller rooms.
AUDIVINA:
- Positioning: A mid-range headphone balancing clear audio performance with a reasonable price.
- Description: Uses refined driver technology to deliver a natural sound signature and balanced frequency response for typical home listening setups. Compared to the simple approach of Edition XS and the more precision-focused HE1000SE, it offers enhanced detail while keeping costs moderate.
HE1000SE:
- Positioning: A mid-range headphone engineered for improved clarity and dynamic range.
- Description: Offers an extended frequency response from 8Hz to 65kHz and higher sensitivity for clearer audio reproduction in critical listening. In contrast to AUDIVINA's balanced performance, HE1000SE emphasizes precise tuning and a robust build.
SUSVARA:
- Positioning: A high-end headphone crafted for immersive and detailed sound reproduction.
- Description: Incorporates advanced driver engineering that extends its frequency range from 6Hz to 75kHz, supporting a wider and more open soundstage. Compared to mid-range models like HE1000SE and AUDIVINA, it offers broader performance and refined tuning.
SUSVARA UNVEILED:
- Positioning: A premium headphone representing the pinnacle of the brand's lineup.
- Description: Features cutting-edge materials and driver technologies that produce exceptionally detailed sound across its wide frequency spectrum. When compared with SUSVARA and other models, it delivers superior engineering and an expansive performance.
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Avg. Product Price
$1,001-$2,500
Used For Sale
13
Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
286
of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
92
Founding Year
2007
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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Brand Page
Our interview with the brand
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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?
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Used
HIFIMAN
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
HIFIMAN
HE1000 Unveiled
2699
2699
/
7
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
- Improved vocal timbre and texture qualities of certain instrument tones come forward
- Very well-balanced, natural, and surprisingly smooth-sounding
- One of the most consistent headphones in terms of measurements
- Bass is fully extended, almost perfectly flat down to 20Hz, providing all the bass information
- Mid-range is better, with less of a dip around 2kHz compared to previous models
Product Considerations
- Removing the grill exposes the driver, exposing the membrane, which is not ideal, still requiring great care when handling to prevent damage
- There's an excess around 4kHz, which can focus the treble and compress it a little
- It is not as good as what you find with the best planar magnetic headphones for harmonic distortion
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs other HE1000 series: Vocals timbre is significantly improved
- Vs HIFIMAN Arya Stealth: Unveiled's treble response is not quite as peaky
- Vs HIFIMAN HE1000SE: The mid-range is no longer dry, the treble region is no longer peaking
- Vs HIFIMAN Sysvara OG: HE1000 Unveiled's soundstage is more open, more 3D, and deeper
- Vs T+A Solid Therapy: HE1000 Unveiled provides slightly more mid-range energy and a sweeter mid-range in general
Takeaway: The HE1000 Unveiled has great sound and build, and it's more natural and balanced than older models. It’s a great headphone for detail, soundstage, and imaging.
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
Product Page
Meze
Empyrean II
2999
2999
/
13
Reviews
Meze Audio is a hifi brand known for their unique Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array driver technology, which provides an immersive sound experience with a frequency range of 3 Hz to 112 kHz. Their headphones feature distinctive design elements like black walnut wood ear cups and detachable magnetic ear pads, setting them apart from typical plastic or metal designs in the premium headphone market.
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Product Strengths
- Top-notch build quality, with premium materials and a comfortable design
- Excellent sound quality with a balanced presentation—no outstanding weaknesses across the frequency spectrum
- Two sets of earpads are included (Duo and Alcantara) for sound customization
- The design has a strong aesthetic, and the magnetic pad swapping system is easy to use
- Wider soundstage and more three-dimensional imaging
Product Considerations
- Sensitivity has dropped compared to the original Empyrean and Elites, requiring slightly more power to drive
- There might be a little bit of extra emphasis around the three to four kilohertz mark, which can make them a little bit fatiguing—a little bit bitey in the treble
- Not the largest soundstage that can be experienced at this price point
- The open design leaks sound and doesn't offer much in the way of isolation
- Those particularly sensitive might hear some spikiness in the lower treble region
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Original Meze Empyrean: Empyrean II has a more neutral tuning, is more defined, and has better detail separation
- Vs Meze Elite: Empyrean II offers stronger bass extension and more of the engaging emotional delivery
- Vs Meze Elite: The Elite seems more expansive than Empyrean 2, though not by a lot
- Vs HIFIMAN HE1000SE: The HE1000SE sound is more spacious, the bass is snappier, and the amount of detail is slightly above the Elite and Empyrean
Takeaway: The Empyrean II is an enjoyable headphone, improving on the original with a more accurate and versatile sound that maintains the core Empyrean identity. The comfort, build quality, and well-balanced sound make it a great choice for a high-end listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Meze Audio is a hifi brand known for their unique Rinaro Isodynamic Hybrid Array driver technology, which provides an immersive sound experience with a frequency range of 3 Hz to 112 kHz. Their headphones feature distinctive design elements like black walnut wood ear cups and detachable magnetic ear pads, setting them apart from typical plastic or metal designs in the premium headphone market.
Product Page
Product Page
Austrian Audio
The Composer
2699
2699
/
10
Reviews
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
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Product Strengths
- Built with premium, high-quality, sturdy materials with a solid feel
- Very comfortable and relatively lightweight, suitable for long listening sessions
- Easy to drive with low impedance and reasonable sensitivity
- Delivers a reference-grade sense of clarity, balance, and vast soundstage
- Excellent instrument separation and imaging
- Easy to drive with low impedance and reasonable sensitivity
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers found the range of headband adjustment limited, making it potentially unsuitable for those with smaller heads
- The banana plug cable connectors are proprietary, limiting third-party cable options
- The stock cable is acceptable, but not particularly premium feeling
- The bass is a little lightweight and might require EQ adjustment for some listeners
- A dip at 2kHz was noted by some reviewers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD800S: The Composer has better bass extension, but the HD800S has better resolution and detail
- Vs HIFIMAN Arya/HE1000 series: The Composer sounds more natural than some HIFIMAN planars, and it may have greater bass depth
- Vs Meze Audio Empyrean II: The Composer goes deeper in the soundstage, with better layering and more sub-bass presence, but the Empyrean II is softer and more relaxed
- Vs ZMF Outure Classic: The Composer has better bass response but is smoother and more tame in the treble
Takeaway: The Austrian Audio Composer is a well-built, comfortable, and easy-to-drive headphone with a balanced, clear, and detailed sound signature. It offers a reference quality that can be great for critical listening and casual enjoyment.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Austrian Audio, founded by the former AKG Vienna core team, manufactures its own ceramic CKR12 capsules and Hi-X headphone drivers in-house in Vienna. Their capsule consistency is so precise that any two microphones can be used as a stereo pair without matching. The brand's microphones feature unique tech, including dual-output mode for reshaping polar patterns in post-production, and real-time wireless polar pattern control via Bluetooth.
Product Page
Product Page
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Abyss
Diana MR
2995
2995
/
8
Reviews
Abyss is a hifi headphone brand that uses a patented single-sided planar-magnetic driver architecture and machines all-aluminum chassis with foamed-aluminum acoustics in their New York facility, targeting a "speakers-in-room" sound rather than typical headphone presentation. The brand offers granular fit adjustments through magnetic pad systems and interchangeable acoustic pads that allow owners to intentionally shift tonal balance, supported by a 10-year warranty and vertical integration from driver production to final assembly.
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Product Strengths
- Delivers a beautifully smooth and refreshingly beefy tuning compared to previous Diana headphones
- The most comfortable planar magnetic set of cans ever worn
- Build quality is very impressive
- Good mid-range
Product Considerations
- Needs additional padding for optimal scalp comfort
- Treble can become problematic
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Diana MR most remind reviewer of a super version of the HIFIMAN Edition XS
- Spatial presentation is better from the HIFIMAN HE1000SE, and the midrange is better balanced as well
Takeaway: The Diana MR is the most accessible set of high-end open-back planar headphones to date from Abyss. It is a fun and impressive listen.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Abyss is a hifi headphone brand that uses a patented single-sided planar-magnetic driver architecture and machines all-aluminum chassis with foamed-aluminum acoustics in their New York facility, targeting a "speakers-in-room" sound rather than typical headphone presentation. The brand offers granular fit adjustments through magnetic pad systems and interchangeable acoustic pads that allow owners to intentionally shift tonal balance, supported by a 10-year warranty and vertical integration from driver production to final assembly.
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What competes at this price?
HIFIMAN
Arya Unveiled
1449
/
Released
2024
ARYA UNVEILED — Grille-Free, Open-Back Planar Headphones with Stealth Magnet Clarity.
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
- Clarity with refined control of the highs, and more forward mids that jump out for vocals and live jazz recordings
- Retains the warm, rich bass, with some extra energy to how it punches
- Smooth character of sound, a sense of refinement
Product Considerations
- New models mean new prices
- Some might be fine with the cheap plastic covers that must be removed before each listening session, and the increased risk to the drivers themselves
- The new Unveiled designs remove any kind of protection from the backside of the drivers
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Aria Unveiled has a sense of refinement that the previous Arias did not have, it is improved in pretty much every way
- The Aria Unveiled cannot keep up with the technical performance of the HE1000SE, tonally, the Aria Unveiled might be preferable to some people over the slightly brighter sounding HE1000SE
Takeaway:
The Aria Unveiled offers a balanced and refined sound, making it a versatile choice for various music genres and preferences. Improved clarity and controlled highs create an enjoyable 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
Product Page
HIFIMAN
HE1000 Stealth
1399
/
Released
2022
Pioneering nanometer-thin, 3D-printed diaphragm combines ultra-lightweight construction with extreme rigidity, delivering exceptional clarity, speed, and transient response.
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
- Expansive and well-balanced sound, making it one of the best-tuned models in HIFIMAN’s egg-shaped series
- Smooth, more linear highs and a noticeable increase in warmth from the bass, lending an ‘organic’ feel to the sound
- Outstanding resolution, on par with the Arya Stealth
- Generally comfortable, with improvements to the headband compared to older models
- Features acoustically invisible stealth magnets, which enable sound waves to traverse the magnets without causing interference
Product Considerations
- Accessories (cables and stand) are basic for the price point
- Can be too large for individuals with smaller heads
- Maintains a bright character and can be quite revealing, it necessitates thoughtful pairing based on individual listening preferences, and then again it may not suit every listener
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Arya Stealth: Has a larger soundstage and is more resolving, with better treble presence, brilliance, and sparkle, the Arya Stealth has a more intimate sound with forward vocals and a slightly thickened midrange
- Vs HE1000 V2: Features smoother, more linear highs, more warmth from the bass—resulting in a more pleasant listen
- Vs Verite Camphor Burl: The Verite is heavier sounding and more musical, with better dynamics but is not as reference or liquid-sounding
- Vs Arya Organic: The HE1000 Stealth clearly outperforms in terms of tonal balance and technical capabilities
- Vs Susvara: The tuning, technical performance, resolution, and refinement closely resemble those of the Susvara
Takeaway: The HE1000 Stealth offers a balanced and detailed sound with a wide soundstage, making it suitable for critical listening and enjoying various music genres. It's a high-performing headphone that delivers excellent value.
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
/
Released
2022
The ZMF Atrium is our most open design, which features our patent-pending rear damping system that accentuates stage layering, depth, tactile "feel" with realistically natural timbre. The Atrium expands the range of spatial sound experience first incepted with the auteur (now the "auteur classic"), through its shared biocellulose driver heritage and linear ZMF tuning.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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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Mod House Audio
Tungsten
1699
/
Released
2023
Introducing Tungsten, Mod House Audio's first headphone designed from the ground up. Tungsten is the crowning achievement of over 3 years worth of work in research and development.
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.
Expand Details
Our Summary
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.
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HEDD
HEDDphone TWO
1999
/
Released
2023
HEDD Audio, founded by physicist Klaus Heinz, pioneered Air Motion Transformer (AMT) technology. Typically reserved for tweeters only due to difficulty achieving low frequency output, HEDD was the first to achieve full 20hz-20khz in a headphone design with the HEDDphone, later refined and improved with the HEDDphone 2 and 2 GT. The brand hand-builds their products in Berlin, with their headphones particularly noted for exceptional detail retrieval and natural soundstage, making them suitable for both professional and audiophile use.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Improved ergonomics and comfort compared to the original HEDDphone, largely due to a significant weight reduction and the innovative HEDDband system for adjustable fit
- Highly detailed and resolving sound, particularly in the midrange, with excellent timbral resolution and microdynamic control
- Unique and expansive soundstage that doesn't restrict the sonic image to inside the head, resembling a good pair of speakers in a well-tuned room
- High-quality build with premium materials and a 5-year warranty inspires confidence
- Excellent accessory package including a carrying case, spare earpads, and multiple cable options
Product Considerations
- Can be picky with recording quality, performing best with well-recorded tracks and less impressive with lower-quality productions
- Some reviewers find the clamping force of the headband to be too strong, even on the lowest setting
- Bass response may lack sub-bass extension or 'oomph' for some listeners, especially those craving a strong low-end rumble
- The treble might be perceived as bright or sibilant by some listeners, particularly due to an elevation in the upper treble region
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HEDDphone One: The Two is lighter, more comfortable, and has a more neutral and technical sound, while the original has more bass impact and a unique timbre
- Vs Audeze MM-500: Both are aimed at professionals with a neutral tuning, but the HEDDphone Two has greater technical performance, microdynamic control, and detail retrieval
- Vs Sennheiser HD800S: The HD800S has a greater sense of soundstage, openness, and instrument separation, while the HEDDphone Two has better low-level detail for individual instruments and microdynamics
- Vs HIFIMAN Arya: The Arya has more midbass punch and upper treble energy, while the HEDDphone Two offers greater technical performance
- Vs Meze Elite: The Elite offers a more rich and entertaining signature, where the HEDDphone Two is more neutral and reference-like
Takeaway: The HEDDphone Two is an innovative headphone with impressive sound and design, offering improvements over the original and it is worth buying if one is looking for excellent sound quality and detail. While its aesthetics may not be its strongest attribute, it delivers on technical sound and offers an enjoyable listening experience.
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Our take on the brand
HEDD Audio, founded by physicist Klaus Heinz, pioneered Air Motion Transformer (AMT) technology. Typically reserved for tweeters only due to difficulty achieving low frequency output, HEDD was the first to achieve full 20hz-20khz in a headphone design with the HEDDphone, later refined and improved with the HEDDphone 2 and 2 GT. The brand hand-builds their products in Berlin, with their headphones particularly noted for exceptional detail retrieval and natural soundstage, making them suitable for both professional and audiophile use.
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