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
- Comfort is good and fit feels like the original Sundara.
- Very easy to drive with high sensitivity and low impedance.
- Build quality is good, and the beechwood earcups give a touch of quality and substance.
- Good bass extension and punch.
- Mid-range is relaxed, lush, airy, and offers a good level of details.
Product Considerations
- The sound signature is not equivalent or familiar to that of the open-back Sundara.
- Treble response is dark.
- Soundstage is average in size, and not very open sounding.
- Stock cable is not great, and a replacement may be desired.
- Some reviewers found the mid-range to be too mid-forward.
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to the HiFiMan Sundara (Open-Back), the Closed-Back has different drivers, is tuned differently, and is not just a variation of the original open-back Sundara.
- Compared to the AKG K361, the AKG has better soundstaging and imaging.
- The Sundara Closed-Back is superior to the Hifiman HE400SE in terms of bass performance.
Takeaway: The Sundara Closed-Back headphones are comfortable and easy to power, and have a unique sound signature that some may find enjoyable. They are a good option to consider if one wants to try a closed-back planar headphone.
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
Sundara Closed-Back
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: : 6Hz-50kHz
- Impedance: : 20Ω
- Sensitivity: : 98dB
- Weight: : 432g
Description
Sundara Closed-Back — The beloved open-back Sundara reimagined with deep isolation and wood-enhanced planar sound.
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.
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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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Our interview with the brand
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What if you spend more?
Dan Clark Audio
Noire X
999
999
/
13
Reviews
Dan Clark Audio sets itself apart with its patented Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System, which uses waveguides and resonators to shape frequency response to uniquely close adherence to various targets, and a unique tensioning system that ensures consistent performance across their headphone units. Their summit-tier headphones feature an uncommon folding design for portability, and their self-adjusting headbands offer extended comfort during long listening sessions.
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Product Strengths
- Excellent, well-balanced tuning, especially for a closed-back headphone
- Good bass response, being tight, punchy, and hard-hitting with quality and fidelity, but not overly bassy
- Comfortable to wear, using the self-adjusting headband and comfortable pads from the E3 model
- Shares a lot of similarities with the E3, but at a lower price point
- Good soundstaging, with decent width and depth for a closed-back headphone
Product Considerations
- The Piano Gloss Black finish is prone to fingerprints, smudges, and scratches, making it difficult to keep clean
- Soundstage could be wider compared to some competitors
- Detail retrieval is good but not a standout feature and may not be at the level expected for the price, particularly when compared to higher-end headphones
- Highs can be a little spicy, and the treble can be a bit more exciting, but less refined than E3
- Pads are glued on, which may make pad replacement more difficult, while being an upside for better seal to the baffle
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Dan Clark Audio E3: Is 90% of the headphone that the E3 is at half the cost
- Vs. Sennheiser HD6XX: The low-end is miles better, mids are almost equally delicious, but the highs are where the HD6XX seems a tad cleaner
- Vs. ZMF Auteur Classic: The Dan Clark Audio Noire X is the more technical and more neutral ride
Takeaway: The Noire X is a comfortable, well-tuned, and versatile closed-back headphone that is a great choice for those wanting a smooth and enjoyable listening experience. It offers a lot of value and is a strong contender in its price range.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Dan Clark Audio sets itself apart with its patented Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System, which uses waveguides and resonators to shape frequency response to uniquely close adherence to various targets, and a unique tensioning system that ensures consistent performance across their headphone units. Their summit-tier headphones feature an uncommon folding design for portability, and their self-adjusting headbands offer extended comfort during long listening sessions.
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Dali
Dali IO-8
900
900
/
13
Reviews
Premium DALI IO-8 wireless Hi-Fi headphones with custom DALI driver technology bring you genuine Hi-Fi performance, while advanced audiophile active noise cancellation technology lets you enjoy the same genuine sound, wherever your are.True Hi-Fi PerformanceDALI IO-8 headphones are designed and engineered using the same sound principles as our full-size loudspeakers – they're true Hi-Fi speakers for your head.Audiophile Active Noise CancellationSilence the outside world with unique active noise cancellation technology tuned carefully by DALI to strip away the distractions without impairing the sound.35-Hour Battery LifeEnjoy up to 35 hours of peerless noise-cancelling playback.Dual Sound ModesTailor the performance to your own style with 'Hi-Fi' and 'Bass' sound modes.
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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Product Strengths
- Positive, detailed, and convincing sound makes music enjoyable, rather than academic
- Exceptional build quality with premium materials, including brushed metal and tactile fabric, gives them an understatedly good look and feel
- Can function as hard-wired passive headphones without battery power, offering flexibility and continuous use
- Active noise cancellation (ANC) effectively reduces external noise without significantly impacting the sonic characteristics of the headphones
- Balanced frequency response with smooth transitions and ample detail throughout the range
Product Considerations
- The lack of a control app limits user customization options
- The use of real leather in the earpads may not appeal to vegan customers
- Active noise cancellation (ANC) is decent, but not class-leading compared to brands like Bose
- The midrange can be a bit too relaxed for some users
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Compared to Bowers & Wilkins PX8, the Dali IO-8 offers distinct sound
- Compared to Sennheiser Momentum 4, the Dali IO-8 is heavier
- Compared to Focal Bathys, the Dali IO-8 is lighter
Takeaway: The Dali IO-8 is a premium headphone that delivers high-quality sound with a focus on musicality and build quality. It's a great choice for listeners who value a balanced sound signature, comfortable design, and the flexibility of wired and wireless use.
Video review
Our take on the brand
DALI is a speaker brand known for its unique hybrid tweeter module that combines a soft dome and planar ribbon tweeter, along with proprietary Soft Magnetic Compound technology that reduces distortion. Their speakers feature distinctive wood fiber cones and are designed to be used without toe-in, which creates a broader, more even spread of sound across the listening area.
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Focal
Bathys
699
699
/
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.
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Product Strengths
- Excellent sound quality delivers a rich, full, detailed, and clear experience, rivaling higher-end wired headphones
- Comfortable for long listening sessions due to soft earpads and good weight distribution
- High-quality build with premium materials like magnesium yokes, aluminum band, and leather padding
- Effective noise canceling is comparable to leading brands like Bose and Sony, and offers a transparency mode
- Versatile connectivity with Bluetooth (aptX Adaptive), USB-DAC mode (up to 24/192), and analog 3.5mm
Product Considerations
- Active noise canceling (ANC) isn't the absolute best on the market
- Stock cables are considered basic and somewhat short
- The app, while offering EQ and other adjustments, can be clunky and difficult to connect initially, and some users have reported firmware update issues
- The headphones always need battery power to function, even when using a wired connection
- Some reviewers found the bass a little too elevated in the lower mids
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- The Bathys has a more natural fit, a better mic, more connectivity options, and a companion app that allows for better sound adjustments, while the AirPods Max excels in noise canceling
- The Bathys has more consistent audio delivery, a more robust EQ, and better overall noise isolation, while the Bowers & Wilkins Px8 is more comfortable and better built
- The Bathys has similar noise isolation performance and similar USB-C and analog capabilities, but the Sennheiser Momentum 4 Wireless has a more accurate treble response and better battery life
- The Bathys has better sound, is more comfortable, and is better built than the Sony WH-1000XM5, while the XM5 has better battery and better noise isolation
- The Focal Celestee is better built, more comfortable, and wired, while the Bathys has a USB-DAC mode for higher-quality audio and a companion app to adjust it
Takeaway: The Focal Bathys are a solid pick for wireless headphones that sound great and feel luxurious. Excellent sound quality with convenient features like active noise canceling make them perfect for enjoying music on the go.
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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Softears
RSV Reference
729
729
/
10
Reviews
Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
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Product Strengths
- Excellent fit and comfortable for many users, even for extended listening periods
- Very well-balanced and tuned sound signature, often described as a warm, mature, or safe Harman-ish tuning
- Smooth treble presentation, avoiding sibilance, sharpness, or fatigue, while still retaining detail
- Good bass performance for an all-balanced armature set, with nice punch and attack, though primarily focused on sub-bass
- Very good natural tonality and timbre, avoiding a metallic or unnatural sound often associated with balanced armatures
Product Considerations
- Soundstage and imaging could be better for the price, described as average and not particularly wide or holographic
- May lack a 'hook' or standout factor in its sound quality, some find it to be a more laid-back and less engaging sound
- The shells are quite big, which may be problematic for users with small ears
- The recessed 2-pin sockets could be designed better with a deeper fit
- May sound 'boring' at mid-to-low volumes, according to one reviewer
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Moondrop S8: RSV offers a warmer and fuller sound with a more even midrange, while the S8 is leaner and more forward, with the S8 being more engaging overall
- Vs Dunu SA6: RSV has better bass quality, while the SA6 has a slightly more pronounced treble
Takeaway: The Soft Ears RSV is a comfortable and well-tuned IEM that delivers a balanced and enjoyable listening experience. It is particularly well-suited for those who appreciate a smooth, natural sound with excellent vocal reproduction.
Video review
Our take on the brand
Softears creates reference-quality in-ear monitors for professional monitoring. The brand features passive driver modules that relieve ear pressure without compromising isolation, and complex 15-component crossover networks more akin to high-end loudspeakers. Known for extreme transparency that can even expose recording flaws, Softears delivers flat-impedance designs engineered for pro interface.
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What competes at this price?
HIFIMAN
Svanar Wireless
499
/
Released
2023
SVANAR Wireless — Ultimate Personal Audio in True Wireless Form.
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.
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HIFIMAN
HE-R9
109
/
Released
2022
HE-R9 — Closed-back dynamic headphones with a unique Topology Diaphragm and modular wired or wireless operation.
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
- Lightweight and comfortable for long listening sessions
- Warm, rich, and musical sound signature
- Easy to drive with a 32 ohm impedance and 100db sensitivity
- Versatile due to the option to use wired or wireless via the Arylic Blue Mini R2R dongle
Product Considerations
- Some reviewers feel that the build quality feels cheap, with thin plastic earcups
- The bass can be overwhelming and muddy the mids, leading to a less balanced sound
- Some find the treble response rolled-off or uneven/peaky, potentially affecting detail and soundstage
- The level of notifications from the Arylic R2R dongle is uncomfortably loud
- Isolation isn't the best for a closed-back headphone, ambient noise can still be heard
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs. Drop THX Pandas: The HE-R9 offers a more liquid sound, but the Pandas may be consistently better across a wider range of music
- Vs. HIFIMAN HE-R7DX + Moondrop Moonriver II: The HE-R7DX combo offers more clarity and neutrality, while the HE-R9 provides warmth, richness, and a better 3D soundstage
- Vs. Sony WH-1000XM3: The HE-R9 sounds noticeably better from the wired connection, but when switching to wireless mode there was very little difference
- Vs HIFIMAN HE400SE: The He400Se is slightly flatter, and the bass is much less full-bodied
- Vs. HIFIMAN Deva Pro: The Deva Pro is much more balanced, both via cable and Arylic Bluemini, where the cable was preferred, but the planar returns more details
Takeaway: If a warm, smooth, and rich sound is desired, the HE-R9 is a comfortable headphone that makes listening enjoyable. It's versatile enough to be used wired or wirelessly, but might not be the best choice if a neutral and super clear sound is desired.
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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HIFIMAN
Svanar Wireless Jr
179
/
Released
2023
SVANAR Wireless Jr — High-value true wireless earphones with audiophile-grade features at an entry-level price.
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
- Amazing sound quality with really good bass, highs, lows, and mids, providing an immersive experience.
- Delivers a different audio experience than other earbuds, aimed at audiophiles, and offers excellent sound for the price.
- Good passive noise isolation due to the ear-filling design; even on low volume, it is hard to hear surroundings
- Comfortable to wear for long periods.
- Bluetooth 5.2 provides stable connectivity and enhanced range
Product Considerations
- Found to be on the large side and awkward to fit in the ear; the size might not be for everyone
- There is no volume control directly on the earbuds
- There is no wireless charging
- Call quality is not good, as noises and wind can cause dips in the voice output
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Svanar Wireless LA: The Junior is warmer, thicker, and bassier
- Vs Svanar Wireless Original: The Original is richer in sound, has a rich treble, is balanced and super detailed, while the Junior has worse ANC integration
- Vs SoundPEATS Capsule3 Pro+: The SoundPEATS has a more open and clearer sound, and better call clarity
- Vs Samsung Galaxy Buds FE: The Samsung outperforms the HIFIMAN in call clarity, ANC, and gaming performance
- Vs Nothing Ear (a): The Nothing Ear (a) feels far ahead, with stronger active noise cancelling, multipoint connection, app support, and better call quality in crowded and outdoor circumstances
- Vs KZ Xtra: The KZ has more treble emphasis and sibilance (sss-emphasis), requiring more volume to gain its big sound sensation
Takeaway: The Svanar Wireless Jr earbuds provide really good sound quality with deep bass. If you enjoy that kind of sound, they may be a good fit for listening to music, watching movies, or gaming.
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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HIFIMAN
SVanar Wireless LE
299
/
Released
2023
SVANAR Wireless LE — ‘Light-Luxury’ True Wireless Earphones with Hymalaya R-2R DAC, ANC, and Hi-Res 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
- Lightweight and comfortable fit
- Wide soundstage that expands beyond the listener's shoulders
- Good balance between the kora and orchestra
Product Considerations
- The case is large and oddly shaped
- Voice prompts sound low quality
- Does not automatically shut off when placed in the charging case
- Midrange is lumpy, with boosted upper-midrange and attenuated lower-midrange sounds
- Bass does not go particularly deep
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs Sony WF-1000XM4: Svanar Wireless LE has better balance overall
- Vs Bowers & Wilkins Pi7 S2 earphones: The Pi7 S2s have fuller and deeper bass, more delicate and natural treble; the Svanar Wireless LE offers better balanced sound with the orchestra
Takeaway: The Svanar Wireless LE earphones offer a huge, exciting sound and comfortable fit. They are worth checking out for those seeking well-balanced 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.
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HIFIMAN
HE-R9
299
/
Released
2022
HE-R9 (W/ Bluetooth Dongle Package) — Closed-back dynamic headphones featuring HIFIMAN’s Topology Diaphragm and optional wireless streaming via the Bluemini R-2R dongle.
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
- Lightweight design, around 329 grams, makes it comfortable to wear
- Good sub-bass with rumble and punch
- Warm, rich, lush midrange with good female vocals
- Decent soundstage for a closed-back headphone, comparable to some open-back headphones
Product Considerations
- Plastic ear cups might feel cheap
- Bass can be overwhelming, especially mid-bass and upper-bass, and can bleed into the midrange
- Detail is lacking in the upper mid-range and lower treble
- Treble can be dark, with some reviewers stating a lack of air
- Some reviewers found the bass fatiguing
Comparisons (according to reviewers)
- Vs HIFIMAN R10D: The R9 sounds muffled and echoey compared to the R10D, which has better clarity throughout the frequency range
- Vs HIFIMAN Sundara/Sundara Closed Back: The R9 has significantly more bass than either Sundara, but the Sundara has more detail
- Vs Meze 99 Classic: The R9 has a similar sound signature to the 99 Classic, but with even more bass
- Vs HIFIMAN HE400SE: The HE400SE has more detail in the upper midrange and treble compared to the R9
Takeaway: The HE-R9 is a lightweight and comfortable headphone with a strong bass presence that some listeners may enjoy. It could be worth buying for listeners who like bassy headphones and want a closed-back 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.
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