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
- Well-balanced headphone, described as fabulous.
- Good bass response that is textured, extended, and tight.
- Midrange presentation is considered excellent, with vocals that have focus, realism, and presence.
- Wide and open soundstage.
- The HE-500 is easier to drive compared to the HE6, requiring less power.
Product Considerations
- Stock earcups may be of low quality and prone to splitting.
- The HE-500 is a heavy headphone, which may cause discomfort after extended use.
- Braided cable has microphonics, which is better for listening while sitting still.
- Treble may initially be grating and harsh.
- Can lack some sense of airiness/sparkle on certain genres.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sennheiser HD800: The HE500 is preferred for its weight and balance, as the HD800 sounds analytical.
- Vs Audeze LCD2: The HE500 sounds a little quicker and brighter, but the LCD2 bass is better.
- Vs HiFiMan HE6: The HE500 is warmer and less bright, and the bass is looser.
- Vs Sennheiser HD700: The HE500 offers better bass tightness/extension, midrange purity/balance, and treble smoothness/cleanliness, but the HD700 has a more realistic soundstage.
- Vs beyerdynamic T1 and Sennheiser HD800: Preferred when amped with the Leben CS300XS.
- Vs HiFiMan HE400i: The HE-500 is warmer, has stronger bass, fuller mids, and reduced highs.
Takeaway: The HiFiMan HE-500 is an exciting headphone known for its soundstage and balance, making it a solid option for audiophiles. Despite its weight, the HE-500 offers a great listening experience when paired with the right amplifier.
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
HE-500
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
Description
HE-500 headphones are much higher efficiency than HE-6. Customers can use regular headphone amplifiers to drive HE-500.
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
$501-$1,000
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 are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
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Used
HIFIMAN
All of the Brand's Used Products
What if you spend more?
HIFIMAN
Arya Unveiled
1449
1449
/
9
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
- 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
1399
/
8
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.
Expand Details
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.
Product Page
Product Page
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.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Stunning aesthetics and high-quality craftsmanship with various wood options and grill designs available
- Creates a wonderful sense of space with a great spherical soundstage and natural depth
- Has an amazing ability to be both smooth and detailed at the same time
- Provides a deep reaching and encompassing bass sound with a punchy and impactful profile
- Natural and lifelike tonal quality with vibrant midrange and textured vocals
Product Considerations
- Not ideal for those seeking maximum detail retrieval or a reference-level sound
- May not be the best choice for music that relies heavily on aggressive, distorted electric guitars due to potential mid-range harshness
- Bass extension may not reach as deep as some planar headphones
- The stock cable has shape memory, and some may prefer aftermarket options
- It's a heavier headphone, so comfort may be a concern for some users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs ZMF Verite: The Atrium sits alongside it, and is a significant step above the Auteur, in the sense that it is competing absolutely with the Verite, whereas the Auteur doesn't quite reach the heights of the Verite
- Vs Sennheiser HD650: The Atrium overall tuning is very reminiscent of the Sennheiser HD 650, where it is still fairly neutral, but it tends towards a little bit of warmth
- Vs HIFIMAN HE1000 V2: The HE1000 V2 has a bigger soundstage, but the imaging and the separation handle spatial reproduction much better than the Atrium does
Takeaway: The ZMF Atrium offers a beautiful design and a unique sound signature that combines smoothness and detail, making it a very enjoyable listening experience across many genres. Its ability to create a lifelike and engaging soundstage makes it a worthwhile option for those looking for something special.
Video review
Our take on the brand
ZMF is a boutique hifi headphone brand that crafts one-of-a-kind wooden headphones from stabilized resin-wood billets, each harvested, processed, and assembled in the USA. Their patented acoustic systems include the Atrium Damping System (ADS) and the Caldera's trapezoidal magnet structure. The brand offers lifetime driver warranties and maintains measurement transparency using professional B&K equipment. They have created a distinct enthusiast culture around their annual "ZMF November" limited-edition sales.
Product Page
Product Page
Mod House Audio
Tungsten
1699
1699
/
11
Reviews
Mod House Audio builds high-impedance planar headphones (≈155 Ω) with sound quality rivalling summit-tier options at far more reasonable prices, though have a reputation for being among the most difficult headphones to power properly, attracting enthusiasts who prioritize performance over efficiency. Offering user-selectable single or double-sided magnet drivers with 24k gold conductors and extensive Cerakote ceramic customization options.
Expand Details
Product Strengths
- Nice cable made in partnership with Viking Wave
- Attractive design with some components being 3D printed
- Comfortable to wear with well-distributed weight and ZMF earpads
- Stands out with its 'warm yet balanced' sound signature, described as having flat bass extension and an emphasized lower mid-range
- Delivers instrument separation, and sounds reasonably spacious
Product Considerations
- Build quality can feel a little rough around the edges, which may be noticeable
- Requires a dedicated headphone amplifier
- The dual-sided version is more expensive, while the single-sided version is affected by pressure changes inside the pad
- Sound can come across a little bit crunchy and trebly
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Against Audeze MM500, the MM500 has better build quality
- Against Meze Empyrean 2, the Empyrean 2 is more comfortable
- Against Dan Clark Audio E3, the E3s overall sound more competent
Takeaway: The Modhaus Tungsten is a unique headphone built with care. It's enjoyable to listen to, has good bass extension, and the sound can be customized by swapping earpads.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Mod House Audio builds high-impedance planar headphones (≈155 Ω) with sound quality rivalling summit-tier options at far more reasonable prices, though have a reputation for being among the most difficult headphones to power properly, attracting enthusiasts who prioritize performance over efficiency. Offering user-selectable single or double-sided magnet drivers with 24k gold conductors and extensive Cerakote ceramic customization options.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
HIFIMAN
Arya Organic
859
/
Released
2023
Building on the legacy of the acclaimed Arya series, the Arya Organic introduces a refined design with natural wood earcups, delivering a fuller and more engaging sound signature while preserving the wide soundstage and neutral response that made its predecessors legendary. This next-generation model answers the call from Arya fans for greater detail, richer tonality, and expanded frequency response—crafted to meet the expectations of the most discerning audiophiles.
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
- Improved sensitivity compared to previous Arya models, making it easier to drive with portable devices
- Well-built and comfortable for long listening sessions due to intelligent weight distribution and plush earpads
- Outstanding sound quality with superb resolution, dynamics, and an expertly balanced tuning
- More natural and cohesive sound presentation than previous Arya versions, with improvements in bass weight and midrange
- Addresses the bright treble issues of previous iterations, offering a more relaxed listening experience without sacrificing detail
Product Considerations
- May be prone to nicks and scratches
- May still sound fatiguing for some listeners over extended listening sessions due to brighter treble around 8kHz
- The product comes in a basic cardboard case, with minimal accessories
- System matching could be a consideration, due to a slight treble elevation
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the Arya Stealth, the Arya Organic offers more energy, improved dynamics, a wider soundstage, and better resolution
- The Arya Organic features better tuning and resolution than the Arya Stealth, making the Stealth sound boxed-in, claustrophobic, and too dark in comparison
- The Arya Organic provides a more dynamic midrange, better texture, and overall outperforms the Sennheiser HD8XX, elevating the listening experience
Takeaway: The Arya Organic offers a refined and balanced sound with improved comfort and build, making it a worthwhile upgrade for many listeners. It is an excellent choice for those seeking high resolution and a natural presentation in a comfortable, easy-to-drive package.
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
HE600
799
/
Released
2025
HE600 is HiFiMAN’s reinvention of the classic HE6 headphone, incorporating advanced technologies while maintaining high performance. It is designed to offer the performance of the HE6 while being easier to drive with standard headphone amplifiers, lighter in weight, more comfortable over long sessions, and more reliable overall. It utilizes a second-generation NEO Supernano Diaphragm (about 60% the thickness of the original HE6) for improved responsiveness, enhanced magnet technology with rare-earth-free materials for strong sensitivity, and a new Gen 2 headband that is 20 g lighter with a softer strap and integrated rotation for better fit and comfort
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
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
Focal
Hadenys
754
/
Released
2024
Open-back headphones for the home, Hadenys combines contemporary design with hi-fi quality. Fitted with exclusive Focal speaker drivers, they deliver warm sound with remarkable depth and precision. In addition to its acoustic performance, Hadenys stands out for its comfort and elegant aesthetics.
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Expand Details
Our Summary
Product Strengths
- Beautiful design and build quality with premium materials, like a magnesium yoke and genuine leather headband
- Good comfort with memory foam earpads and breathable cloth, though some find the pads shallow
- Well-rounded tonal balance with surprisingly strong bass for an open-back headphone
- Easy to drive and forgiving with different audio sources
- Clear and spacious sound presentation, with accurate imaging
Product Considerations
- The price point may be higher than some consumers want to pay
- The relatively small size might not fit all head shapes comfortably
- Stock cable is reported to have memory and be unwieldy
- Sound staging isn't the widest
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Focal Azurys: Some prefer the sound of the Azurys for some songs and use cases
- Vs Sennheiser HD600: Hadenys has improvements in the bass and treble response, and there's more oomph and weight in the bass
- Vs Focal Clear MG: Hadenys manages to provide a remarkable amount of Clear MG for a lower price
- Vs Focal Elex: dynamics are not on par with the Focal Elex
- Vs Sennheiser HD 660S2: The Focal manages to feel as solid, while looking better, wearing better and sounding better
Takeaway: The Hadenys offers a stylish design, comfortable fit, and well-rounded sound, making it a versatile headphone for enjoying music at home. Its solid construction and easy-to-drive nature make it a worthwhile choice for those seeking a premium listening experience.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
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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.
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.
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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.
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.
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