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.

Product Strengths

  • The Wraith features an all-metal alloy body that feels sturdy and durable
  • The earcups feature a rotating mechanism, making it convenient to rest the headphones around the neck
  • The design is considered stylish, industrial, and unique
  • The suspension headband design distributes weight evenly, making it comfortable to wear for long listening sessions

Product Considerations

  • The Wraith's headband adjustment system is not very practical and requires a screwdriver to adjust
  • Stock pads may not create the best seal, impacting sound isolation
  • The soundstage is intimate, and the resolution is average
  • The 2.5mm connectors on the earcups might limit replacement cable options
  • Sub-bass can roll off with stock pads

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs HiFiMan Edition XS: The Edition XS has better resolution, clarity, and sub-bass response out of the box, but the Wraith has superior build quality, materials, robustness, and comfort
  • Vs Sendy Audio Aiva: The Wraith and Aiva share a similar bass roll-off
  • Vs Moondrop Venus: The Moondrop Venus costs slightly more and provides a wider soundstage and more refined sound

Takeaway: The ThieAudio Wraith has excellent build quality and a unique design, making them durable and comfortable for many users. The sound is warm and laid-back, making them suitable for casual listening.

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

Wraith

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

  • Drivers: 98mm*76mm ultra-large dynamic planar driver
  • Driver Impedance: 23Ω
  • Driver Sensitivity: 101dB SPL/mW
  • Cable Length: 1.25m
  • Cable Type: OFC coaxial shielded cable with 2.5mm connectors
  • Cable Plug Type: 4.4mm balanced plug
The original Phantom planar magnetic headphone from THIEAUDIO was an instant success when it launched three years ago. It was a revolutionary community-based product that set the standard for Hi-Fi audio at an affordable price range. From those baselines, the THIEAUDIO team has spent the last three years developing an upgraded planar magnetic driver that redefines technical performance and tonal balance.
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:

  • ThieAudio specializes in tribrid IEM designs, uniquely combining dynamic, balanced armature, and electrostatic drivers.
  • They are known for meticulously tuning their IEMs, often aiming for a balance between analytical precision and a musical, engaging listening experience.

THEAUDIO Prestige LTD  

  • Positioning: A balanced in-ear monitor designed for entry-level users seeking clear performance at a moderate price.  
  • Description: Features a mix of dynamic, balanced armature, and electrostatic drivers that keep the sound natural and neutral while maintaining a straightforward design. Compared to the V16 Divinity and flagship models, its simpler driver setup makes it a good choice for smaller spaces, tighter budgets, and essential functionality without extra tuning complexity.

THEAUDIO V16 Divinity  

  • Positioning: A mid-tier option offering warmer tonal quality and a wider soundstage.  
  • Description: Built with advanced tuning that delivers a warmer tone and an expanded soundstage, making it stand out from the more neutral Prestige LTD.

THEAUDIO Valhalla  

  • Positioning: A high-end model positioned as a flagship option with detailed driver architecture and refined performance.  
  • Description: Combines a high driver count and modern design to offer detailed, nuanced sound performance that appeals to critical listeners. Compared to the Divinity and Prestige LTD, its enhanced driver array and broader tuning are suited for larger listening spaces.

THEAUDIO Oracle MKII  

  • Positioning: A premium upgrade in the lineup that refines the flagship experience with improved neutrality and brightness.  
  • Description: Adds refined driver alignment and tuning refinements that yield a more balanced and detailed sound profile, catering to users with high functional needs. When compared with the Valhalla and V16 Divinity, its sharper resolution and technical upgrades make it a strong contender for precise, high-fidelity performance in demanding use cases.

THEAUDIO Oracle  

  • Positioning: A top-tier product aimed at enthusiasts who demand the utmost in technical sophistication and sound quality.  
  • Description: Pushes advanced driver design and innovative technology to deliver exceptional dynamic range and clarity that stand apart from other models in the series. In contrast with the Oracle MKII and other offerings like the Valhalla, its cutting-edge features and superior performance are intended for users with the highest budgets and demanding complete functionality.
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Avg. Product Price
$501-$1,000
Used For Sale
1
 Available (Scroll Down)
Brand Popularity
598
 of 900+
Badges
Top 50 Brand
Top 250 Brand
Products Listed
16
Founding Year
2019

Our take on the brand

Thieaudio is a hifi audio brand best known for headphones with IMPACT2 technology—an in-ear "subwoofer" using two dynamic drivers in an isobaric chamber to boost bass power while keeping frequency constant—and dedicated sound bores to achieve studio-monitor layering and separation. The brand has established a benchmark reputation among reviewers for top-tier tonality at its price tier

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?

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From our interview with
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Used

Thieaudio

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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
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.
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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
Product image
Sendy
Peacock
1499
1499
/
10
Reviews
Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • The Peacock uses long-lasting, high-quality materials in its construction, with minimal plastic, and has a handmade feel
  • Comfortable to wear for long listening sessions due to its soft leather headband, memory foam earpads, and suspension strap system
  • Good left-to-right soundstage and spatial qualities, with precise imaging
  • Natural sound, focusing on the bass and midrange regions
  • Easy to drive and has high sensitivity (103 dB per milliwatt), meaning it sounds good even with ordinary headphone jacks

Product Considerations

  • Some reviewers describe the treble as metallic and unnatural, with an unwanted ringing or resonance that can be fatiguing
  • Soundstage depth and imaging are not as impressive as its width, creating a 'tunnel-like vision' or 'b-dimensional' sound
  • Detail retrieval and transparency are lacking compared to other headphones in its price range
  • Heavy (578-580g), which may be a challenge for some listeners
  • Aesthetics may not appeal to everyone due to mismatched design elements, resulting in a lack of cohesion in its appearance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Audeze LCD-X: Has a wider soundstage, but the LCD-X is more resolving, detailed, and technically proficient
  • Vs HIFIMAN Arya Stealth: Has more impactful bass and a fuller midrange, while the Arya has clearer treble and greater detail retrieval
  • Vs Audeze LCD-2: Vocals are more emphasized and engaging, but the LCD-2 is clearer and more detailed
  • Vs Focal Clear MG: The Clear MG's are warmer with more bass impact, more even and forward mids, and darker, less peaky treble
  • Vs Sendy Audio Aiva: Offers better looks, build quality, comfort, clarity, transparency and more details compared to the Aiva

Takeaway: The Peacock is a stylish and comfortable headphone that offers a warm, smooth, and enjoyable listening experience, especially for those who prioritize musicality over technical precision. Its easy-to-drive nature and wide soundstage make it a good option for relaxed listening sessions.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page
Product image
Warwick Acoustics
Bravura
2190
2190
/
10
Reviews
Warwick Acoustics specializes in electrostatic headphones featuring patented HPEL transducers that use a 15μm laminated film with no obstructive front grid, reducing diffraction and coloration. Unique also for their drastically higher bias voltage of 1800V compared to 230V or 580V in most other electrostatic headphones. Their BD-HPEL diaphragms use multilayer film with vapor-deposited 24-karat gold conductors and gold-plated stators. Each driver is built into rigid polycarbonate cassettes and software-tuned for precise resonances, delivering electrostatic speed with atypically physical bass and grounded imaging that departs from the usual airy electrostatic presentation.
Check Amazon
Expand Details

Product Strengths

  • Comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to plush, soft earpads and a generously padded headband, although some found the clamping force substantial
  • Delivers a natural, transparent, and detailed sound, a hallmark of electrostatic headphones
  • Good bass response, with impact that is noticeably improved compared to the Sonoma M1
  • Excellent instrument separation is highlighted, creating a sense of sounds floating around the listener's head
  • The mids are a standout feature, with vocals presented right up front

Product Considerations

  • The complete system (headphones and amplifier) is required because of the unique voltage requirements, it's not possible to mix-and-match components with other systems
  • Some reviewers found the cable to be stiff and microphonic, although its unique character and design are a result of the system's electrostatic nature
  • The volume control on the Sonoma M1 energizer/amp offers only stepped adjustments, making fine-tuning volume levels difficult for some users
  • The power switch is located on the back of the Sonoma M1 amplifier, which is considered less convenient than a front placement
  • The headphone still retains some excess clamping force

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sonoma M1: The Bravura offers enhanced SPL, more robust bass, and increased resolution compared to its predecessor, the Sonoma M1
  • Vs Dan Clark Audio VOCE: The Bravura offers more impactful bass
  • Vs HiFiMan Shangri-La Jr.: The Bravura offers a smoother sound

Takeaway: The Bravura headphone system is a great option for those who value detailed and natural sound, especially for genres like classical, jazz, and vocals. It offers a complete listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Warwick Acoustics specializes in electrostatic headphones featuring patented HPEL transducers that use a 15μm laminated film with no obstructive front grid, reducing diffraction and coloration. Unique also for their drastically higher bias voltage of 1800V compared to 230V or 580V in most other electrostatic headphones. Their BD-HPEL diaphragms use multilayer film with vapor-deposited 24-karat gold conductors and gold-plated stators. Each driver is built into rigid polycarbonate cassettes and software-tuned for precise resonances, delivering electrostatic speed with atypically physical bass and grounded imaging that departs from the usual airy electrostatic presentation.
Website author headshot
Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
Product Page
Product Page

What competes at this price?

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
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
Sendy
Aiva
599
/
Released
2019
After three and a half years of hard research and development, sound tuning, innovation and breakthrough, the black beauty planar magnetic series are finally formed. AIVA is a collection of countless efforts, from the overall industrial design, acoustic solutions to final production.
Check Amazon
Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
Expand Details

Our Summary

Product Strengths

  • Premium build quality and materials, including zebrawood earcups, leather, aluminum, and steel
  • Detailed and resolving sound signature, with an airy and extended high-end
  • Wide soundstage and precise imaging for an immersive listening experience
  • Comfortable for long listening sessions due to a well-designed comfort strap and plush earpads
  • High-quality stock cable made of 6N single crystal copper

Product Considerations

  • Can sound sharp or metallic if underpowered, requiring a powerful and warm source
  • Bass response is somewhat reserved, lacking significant impact for some listeners
  • Lower mids can lack presence and definition compared to the upper midsection
  • Treble can be bright and fatiguing for some, and may exhibit mild veiling in densely orchestrated tracks
  • Driver matching may not be perfect past 2kHz, potentially causing channel imbalance

Comparisons (according to reviewers)

  • Vs Sivga P2 Pro: Aiva 2 sounds more balanced and relaxed with a warmer tonality compared to P2 Pro, which has a slightly brighter tonality due to a more elevated upper midrange
  • Vs Sennheiser HD600: Aiva offers superior design, materials, cable, technicalities, and a wider frequency response

Takeaway: The Sendy Audio Aiva 2 is a beautifully crafted headphone that delivers a detailed and engaging sound, perfect for listeners who appreciate clarity and high-frequency sparkle. With its comfortable design and premium build, the Aiva 2 provides a luxurious listening experience.

Video review

Our take on the brand

Sendy is a hifi headphone brand known for its Quad-Former planar driver architecture that uses four coils to drive the diaphragm, reducing distortion and enhancing transient response across models like Apollo and Peacock.
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.
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Julian Shapiro
ExtremeHiFi Writer
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