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.

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

HE600

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

Manufacturer details

  • Impedance: 28 Ω
  • Sensitivity: 94 dB
  • Frequency Response: 8 Hz – 65 kHz
  • Weight: 389 g
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
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.

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.
See All Products
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.

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?

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What are your favorite tracks for showcasing the strength of your products?

What other products pair best with yours?

From our interview with
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Brand Page

What if you spend more?

Product image
HIFIMAN
Arya
1299
1299
/
14
Reviews
HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Excellent resolution and detail retrieval, making it a clear step up from mid-fi headphones
  • Wide and open soundstage with nuanced imaging, as well as excellent instrument separation
  • Comfortable design, with well-distributed weight, large earcups, and comfortable earpads
  • The Arya Organic is easier to drive than previous Arya versions and sounds better with various equipment, responding well to a decent system
  • Balanced and neutral sound signature, though some find the treble slightly bright

Product Considerations

  • Noted to lack dynamic weight and bass slam, which might disappoint bass enthusiasts
  • Treble response can be fatiguing depending on the music and is somewhat peaky
  • The 5kHz hump stretches vocals and make them timbrally thin at times
  • Some reviewers express concern about the delicacy of the headphones and caution against dropping them
  • The open-back design makes them unsuitable for noisy environments or situations where sound leakage is a concern

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • The Arya is sharper, clearer, and better resolved than the HiFiMan Ananda, with a more open soundstage, but the Ananda has more bass grunt
  • Both have large soundstages and effortless resolution, but the Arya has a more excited tuning while the Sennheiser HD800S is smoother
  • The Arya has a larger soundstage, but the Focal Clear has better punch and slam

Takeaway: The HiFiMan Arya is a technically impressive headphone that provides excellent sound clarity, a wide soundstage, and a comfortable listening experience. If you appreciate a neutral sound with great detail and aren't looking for heavy bass, the Arya could be a good choice.

Video review

Our take on the brand

HIFIMAN is a hifi brand known for its planar magnetic headphones that use extremely thin diaphragms and acoustically transparent "Stealth Magnets" to reduce sound distortion. The company pioneered high-resolution portable audio players and creates electrostatic headphones that bring high-end sound quality to more accessible price points, as well as widely renowned flagship models such as the Susvara.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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.
Check Amazon
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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
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.
Check Amazon
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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

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.
Check Amazon
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
HIFIMAN
Ananda-BT
799
/
Released
2019
ANANDA-BT — Wireless Planar Magnetic Headphones Featuring High-Res Bluetooth and R-2R DAC.
Check Amazon
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

  • Impressive, high-quality audio reproduction and detail that is comparable to wired headphones
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Bluetooth connectivity is stable with a long-distance range
  • High-quality codecs are supported, including LDAC and aptX HD
  • Can be used wired via USB-C

Product Considerations

  • Open-back design offers limited passive noise isolation and noticeable sound leakage
  • Clamping force of the earcups can cause hotspot around the temple area
  • Battery life is average, and battery is not easily replaceable
  • Limited on-device control options for volume or skipping tracks
  • USB-C connectivity may have volume and usability issues, depending on the source device

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Versus Focal Batis, the Ananda-BT is a direct competitor
  • Versus Sennheiser Momentum 4, the Sennheiser has slightly better call quality, but the audio quality is disappointing in resolution and clarity compared to Ananda-BT
  • The wired version has superior sound, but the Ananda-BT is more versatile due to its Bluetooth connectivity
  • Versus Bose QC35II, the QC35II is better for portability and noise isolation, but Ananda-BT has far superior sound quality

Takeaway: The Ananda-BT are great sounding wireless headphones that offer impressive technical capabilities. For audiophiles who value convenience without sacrificing too much sound quality, they could be worth considering.

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
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.
Check Amazon
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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
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

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