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
- Very easy to drive, even from smartphones and portable devices
- Considered lightweight for a planar magnetic headphone, enhancing comfort
- Sound is smooth and musical with good clarity for long listening sessions without fatigue
- Good price for a planar magnetic headphone
- Comfortable due to plush velour cushions, with lots of room around the ears
Product Considerations
- Bass extension is not very good, with a roll-off starting around 100Hz, so it is not ideal for 'bass heads'
- Comfort requires some initial fiddling with the fit to prevent sliding
- Accessories are fairly slim, lacking extras like a carrying case
- Build quality can feel more 'plastic-y' compared to some alternatives
- Open-back design leaks sound and offers little isolation, making unsuitable for noisy environments
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the HiFiMan HE400i, the HE400S is brighter and more sibilant, while the HE400i is warmer and glossier
- Compared to the Sennheiser HD600, the HE400S might be a little better, and at a lower price
Takeaway: The HiFiMan HE400S is a comfortable and easy-to-drive planar headphone that offers a balanced sound at a good price, making it a great entry into audiophile listening. With its smooth sound and lightweight design, music can be enjoyed for hours.
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
HE400S
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
- Frequency Response: 20Hz - 35KHz
- Sensitivity: 98dB
- Impedance: 22 Ohms
- Weight: 350g
- Cable Length: 1.5m (4.9 feet)
- Plug: 3.5mm/6.35mm
Description
One of the highest efficiency planar phones in the world! HIFIMAN's newest HE400S sounds terrific on your smartphone or most any portable audio device.
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
$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
What are two key technological innovations or strong opinions that differ you from other brands?
What's your approach to customer support?
What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?
What other products pair best with yours?
From our interview with
.
Brand Page
What if you spend more?
HIFIMAN
Arya Organic
859
859
/
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.
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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
799
/
1
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
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
754
/
13
Reviews
Focal is a French hifi brand that makes their own drivers in-house, including their highly-regarded beryllium tweeters and unique slatefiber mid/bass drivers made from recycled carbon fiber. Their speakers and headphones feature distinctive technologies like their "W" sandwich cone design for optimal driver performance and Mimi Sound Personalization that adapts audio to individual hearing profiles.
Expand Details
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.
Product Page
Product Page
FIIO
FT7
699
699
/
11
Reviews
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.
Product Page
Product Page
What competes at this price?
HIFIMAN
Ananda Nano
369
/
Released
2023
Ananda Nano now brings the acclaimed Ananda sound in a more compact, lightweight package while delivering high-resolution planar-magnetic performance.
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
- Excellent resolution and imaging capabilities
- Features a nanometer thickness diaphragm and Stealth Magnet design that improves transient response and lowers harmonic distortion
- Easy to drive, it is among the most efficient open-back planar magnetic headphones on the market right now
- Features a tight, textured, and clean bass response
- Good detail retrieval and vocal clarity
Product Considerations
- Treble might be too much for some listeners
- May not be the most lively in macro-dynamics
- Reviewers note a slightly dry timbre
- Lean, slightly cold mid-range
- The included 3-meter cable is not useful for desktop use
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Similar to the Meze 109, but a planar
- Sounded a little bit more hifi than the Austrian Audio Hi-X 65
- Has a more warm, natural feel than the original Ananda
- Easiest to drive when compared to the Edition XS
- Superior in technical performance when compared to the Hifiman Sundara
Takeaway: The Ananda Nano is a well-tuned headphone with superior resolution and marvelous timbre, particularly good for electronic music and those who care about vocal clarity. It's a planar alternative that’s incredibly fast and detailed, with excellent imaging and soundstage.
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
HE400se
109
/
Released
2022
HE400se — Affordable open-back planar magnetic headphones enhanced with Stealth Magnet design for reduced distortion.
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
- Good build quality for the price
- Comfortable, especially with the updated headband design
- Decent detail retrieval and resolution throughout the frequency range
- A good entry point for trying planar drivers
- Good imaging and instrument separation
Product Considerations
- Stock cable is of very low quality and microphonic, replacement is recommended
- Sub-bass is lacking, and the bass response may not satisfy bass enthusiasts
- Treble can get fatiguing with potential peaks
- Pads flatten out quickly
- An amplifier is needed to shine
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN Sundara: HE400se has a brighter sound, while the Sundara is smoother with a warmer quality, and the Sundara is significantly better overall and worth the upgrade
- Vs HIFIMAN HD560S: HE400se has a smoother treble presentation
Takeaway: The HE400se provides a taste of planar sound at an affordable price and is great for those wanting to experiment with modifications. The HE400se is definitely worth it for anyone looking for open back headphones with great sound.
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
Deva Pro-wired
199
/
Released
DEVA Pro-Wired — Affordable Planar Magnetic Open-Back Headphones Featuring Stealth Magnet Design.
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
- Stylish and cool silver and black color scheme.
- Impressive build quality, with an aluminum and faux leather construction.
- Comfortable to wear, with deep-set, wide-opening hybrid earpads.
- The design provides a multi-entry cable system to use cables with left and right 3.5mm TRS stereo connectors.
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers found that the headband barely has any clamp force, leading to a less secure fit.
- Standard 3.5, dual 3.5 millimeter headphone cables that have TS connections, or even most TRS connections on it, are not recommended, as it can short something out.
- It is not recommended to take this product outdoors, as wind can damage the thin planar magnetic membrane.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Deva Pro is a clear step up for resolution compared to HE400SE, and does not add sibilance in the treble.
- Sennheiser HD58X bass response is comparable to that of the Deva Pro.
Takeaway: The Deva Pro is a stylish and well-built headphone with good sound quality. It is comfortable to wear, making it a solid option for wireless and wired use.
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
Edition XS
269
/
Released
2021
The Edition XS is a full-size, open-back planar-magnetic headphone that introduces Stealth Magnet technology and a NEO ‘super-nano’ diaphragm for highly detailed, distortion-free sound.
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
- Excellent soundstage and imaging, creating a spacious listening experience
- Detailed and clear sound reproduction, especially for a headphone in its price range
- Good bass presence and depth
- Comfortable design with improved headband compared to older HiFiMan models, though this is disputed
- Generally easy to drive, though it may benefit from a dedicated amp
Product Considerations
- Headband comfort can be subjective; some find the padding insufficient or experience pressure points
- Build quality, specifically the plastic parts, may feel cheap or less premium
- Upper treble can be bright, potentially causing fatigue or sibilance for some listeners, though others dispute this
- Open-back design is not suitable for all listening situations due to sound leakage
- Some find the midrange to be recessed or lacking warmth, this may depend on the source and amp pairing
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HiFiMan Sundara: Edition XS has better bass and soundstaging
- Vs HiFiMan Ananda: Edition XS offers similar performance for a lower price, but Ananda has better balanced upper mids and treble
- Vs Audeze LCD-X: Edition XS is cooler in the midrange, while LCD-X is warmer
- Vs Sennheiser HD660S2: Edition XS has a far superior soundstage, imaging, and detail level
- Vs FiiO FT3: The Edition XS is more precise and detailed, with a more neutral sound signature
- Vs Focal Elex/Elear: Edition XS excels at soundstage and imaging, but Elex excels in dynamics
Takeaway: The HiFiMan Edition XS offers great sound quality, particularly its spacious soundstage and imaging, at an attractive price. It is a solid choice for audiophiles seeking a detailed and open 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
Ananda Stealth Magnet
359
/
Released
2022
ANANDA now with Stealth Magnet technology delivers ultra-fine planar drivers with unmatched agility, power sensitivity, and reduced distortion for pure, full-range audio.
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
- Easy to drive, working well with various amps and even portable devices, making it versatile for different setups
- Detail and resolution are exceptional, holding its own against headphones at higher price points
- Wide and tall soundstage
Product Considerations
- The egg-shaped ear cups can sit low and put pressure on the jaw for some users
- Treble can be a little too intense and aggressive for some listeners, potentially causing fatigue during longer listening sessions
- Some reviewers find the mids to be slightly thin compared to the original Ananda
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HiFiMan Edition XS, the Ananda Stealth is superior in almost every way, with tighter and better-controlled bass, more dynamics, and better detail retrieval
- Vs HiFiMan Ananda (non-stealth), the Stealth version has deeper and punchier bass, a warmer midrange, and more liquid vocals
- Vs HiFiMan Arya Stealth, the Ananda Stealth sounds a lot like the Arya Stealth, but not quite as good, with the Arya having slightly better detail
- Vs LSA HP2 Ultra, the Ananda Stealth is preferred on solid-state amps, with more warmth and better treble extension
Takeaway: The Ananda Stealth is a solid all-rounder that can be used across different sources. It offers a step up in great sound quality for the price.
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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