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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.

Manufacturer details

  • Frequency Response : 20~20KHz
  • Sensitivity : 108dB
  • Impedance : 16 Ohms
  • Plug : 3.5mm
  • Driver Diameter : 8.5mm
HIFIMAN brand is synonymous with high performance. Following in that tradition, the company's new RE300a in-ear phone is affordable with remarkable sound quality. Ergonomically designed for comfort and light weight so you can enjoy our earphone for hours on end.
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.
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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.

Look inside the brand

Brand Page

Our interview with the brand

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From our interview with
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HIFIMAN

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What if you spend more?

Product image
HIFIMAN
Arya Stealth Magnets
599
599
/
10
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

  • 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
Product image
HIFIMAN
Ananda-BT
799
799
/
10
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

  • 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
Product image
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.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

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

  • 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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
HE400se
109
/
Released
2022
HE400se — Affordable open-back planar magnetic headphones enhanced with Stealth Magnet design for reduced distortion.
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

  • 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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
Deva Pro-wired
199
/
Released
DEVA Pro-Wired — Affordable Planar Magnetic Open-Back Headphones Featuring Stealth Magnet Design.
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

  • 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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
HIFIMAN
Svanar Wireless
499
/
Released
2023
SVANAR Wireless — Ultimate Personal Audio in True Wireless Form.
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

  • Excellent sound quality, potentially challenging cabled IEMs, with a dynamic and holographic rendering and beautiful mids and airy treble.
  • Effective ANC, making it suitable for reducing ambient noise, even in noisy environments, with up to 35dB of noise attenuation.
  • Good build quality, with the IEMs made of lightweight metal and Kevlar, and a sturdy charging case.
  • Good bass performance, with texture and extension, punchy, without overpowering, and a powerful but tight impact.
  • Wide soundstage, creating a spacious and immersive listening experience.

Product Considerations

  • Connectivity issues with LDAC, especially outdoors or in areas with interference, leading to intermittent signal drops.
  • Transparency mode might generate turbulence in windy conditions due to microphone placement.
  • Limited codecs available, with no aptX support.
  • Physical size of the charging case is large and might not be pocket-friendly.
  • Included eartips may not be suitable for all ear sizes, with a shorter nozzle affecting fit for some users.

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Final ZE8000: Svanar Wireless offers a more W-shaped and punchy signature, greater upper mids gain, more precise imaging, and a vaster sound layering capability, while the ZE8000 sound more neutral to L shape, warmer, and have more sub bass boost and warmth.
  • Vs Noble FoKus Mystique: Svanar Wireless has some emphasis in the bass, but not as much, has stronger overall imaging performance—providing a wider soundstage and the best balance between the separation and cohesion in the imaging.
  • Vs HIFIMAN Svanar (wired): Svanar Wireless soundstage is taller and wider but not as deep, since clarity isn’t as sharp and clean, silence being more ”noisy”.
  • Vs Sony WF-1000XM4: The Svanar Wireless presents a much more detailed, natural and sophisticated kind of sound, while Sony has bloated bass, that overwhelms everything else.
  • Vs Apple AirPods Pro: The Svanar Wireless generally outperforms the AirPods Pro in sound quality.

Takeaway: The Svanar Wireless is a solid choice for TWS lovers, with a top-tier sound quality, effective ANC, and its convenience and comfort. It is innovative, less bass-heavy tuning, and overall a solid proposal.

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
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.
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

  • 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.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

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