Reviews by Sajid Amit
Background and Disclaimer:
I am an ardent audiophile and audio reviewer. My YouTube channel, Amplify, is here. My favorite headphone is the HIFIMAN Susvara. When Lavricables wanted to send in the Grand Line Silver Cable for review, I did not hesitate to say yes, because I wanted to test whether the cable would hold up to its reputation.
I was already aware that the cable could make sonic differences, as several Empyrean users have testified on Head-Fi and other platforms. I had read up on this cable, and was already aware that this cable could have the impact of clarifying the Empyrean's (relative) muddiness. Therefore, in order to compensate for this bias, I tested this cable both with my eyes wide open as well as through a blind test. In this review, I summarize impressions I gleaned through both blind-testing and open-eyed testing.
In any case, I would like to thank Konstantin of Lavricables for providing me with this review unit. I am not affiliated with Lavricables beyond this review, which reflects my true and unaltered opinions about the product.
Another important disclaimer is that I am a cable-believer. Yes, I believe there is a ton of snake oil in audio, whether it is overpriced headphones, speakers, amplifiers, DACs, and of course, cables. I also think that cables are the last thing you should upgrade in your audio chain. But if you have a revealing enough system, and you know what to listen for, a good cable should yield perceptible sonic differences that do not even require a blind test.
About Lavricables:
The brand Lavricables was created in 2012 by hobbyists. The founders operated from the standpoint that cable manufacturers were over-charging for cables. While keeping prices relatively reasonable, to ensure quality, they use silver, known for its neutrality, tonal balance, sound stage openness; while using braided solid core cable geometry to eliminate radio frequencies and electromagnetic interference. Lavricables makes cables for most of the headphones and IEMs available on the market and open to customizations on request. Their website is here and blog here.
Price:
The price is EUR 399 for 1.2 meters with 2x Aeco 3.5mm plugs and Aeco 4-Pin XLR. The unit I reviewed was 1 meter, upon request (priced the same as for 1.2 meters). Purchase link here.
Technical Specifications:
Holo Audio May DAC > Accuphase e380 integrated amplifier > Stock Cables > HIFIMAN Susvara
Holo Audio May DAC > Accuphase e380 integrated amplifier > Lavricables Grand Line Silver > HIFIMAN Susvara
Build, Ergonomics, and Customer Service:
In my opinion, the cable is an absolute stunner. Cables I have seen look this good are usually available in much higher price brackets. It is robust, nice to the touch, and does not coil easily, unless you want to coil it into a circle, which is easy to do. The AECO XLR feels absolutely premium and adds to the feeling you are dealing with a high-end cable. The splitter is a transparent piece which keeps the design minimalistic. The cable comes in a nice little black cloth bag with Lavricables logo.
Overall, my experience dealing with Konstantin of Lavricables was an absolute pleasure. I am usually the sort who responds to emails within minutes and I was glad to see a kindred soul in Konstantin. The entire process of ordering, specifying cable particularities, and shipping was handled with timely and clear communication, which is laudable, given many cable manufacturers are so difficult to pin down, even if their craft is great.
Sound Impressions:
When I first plugged the new cable in and fired the Susvaras up, I knew immediately a certain change was afoot.
Compared the stock Susvara cable, the change was very evident. If I were to summarize the contributions of the Lavricables cable, they would be as follows: an opening up of sound stage; a greater sense of upper mid-range clarity and lower treble clarity; more air; and a tighter bass. There were also faster transients compared to the stock cable as well as more "punch" and dynamics.
To dive into particularities:
Bass: The bass is perceptibly tighter and faster on the Lavricables cable. Playing Daft Punk's contact, drum beat attacks are faster, which of course, is not just a function of bass, there is certainly a clarity with which bass notes come through. Overall, I would not say that there is "more" or "less" bass because of the cable, but a certain cleanliness to the bass presentation, which is noticeable. This was also evident playing rock tracks like Bruce Dickinson's Darkside of Aquarius.
Midrange: The HIFIMAN Susvaras are already the master of Midrange, but the Lavricables do appear to add more clarity to the upper midrange, which renders the presentation of tracks even more crystal clear. In fact, the clarity of presentation of the Susvaras on the Lavricables is stunning. There is no longer a window through which you perceive the music. The window is broken and you have the mix itself.
In that sense, the cables do appear to have the effect of bringing you closer to the music, not in terms of sound stage intimacy, mind you, but in terms of pushing you "closer to the mix" which is why I personally prefer headphone listening to speaker listening. Combos like the Lavricable with the Susvara are reasons why my Sonus Faber Electa Amator III's don't get as much listening time!
Treble: In terms of treble frequencies, both the lower-to-mid treble as well as the air region comes through more clearly on the Lavricable + Susvara combo. So that translates to more clearer rendition of piano notes, and a more acute representation of air frequencies, which means vocals will sound as breathy as they are intended to, cymbals as shimmery as they are meant to, and so forth.
Technical Performance:
There is an overall improvement in technical performance. I do perceive more details on the Lavricables cable. My attention is drawn to trailing edges of tones, spacial cues, and such things. I also perceive an improvement in sound stage width, faster transients, attack of notes, etc. Transitions from louder to quieter passages are handled more delicately.
These differences in technical performance are not night-and-day, but given that I am already in the business of paying for nuance, I would say they are small but remarkable. Of course, what is remarkable to me, may not be remarkable to you. In the TOTL space, every little change tends to be greeted with enthusiasm, and why not.
Conclusion:
At 400 Euros, the Lavricables Grand Line Awg20 Silver Cable is a solid investment, and I dare say, a value-for-money one. Let's not forget that high-end cables people buy for headphones like the Susvara and the Abyss 1266 Phi TC are frequently in the $1000-2000 range.
Yes, it's about nuances, and the differences are not night and day, but to me, it's certainly not placebo in play or pyscho-acoustics. The changes are immediate when switching back-and-forth between cables. They are also evident in blind-tests, especially when playing tracks that can reveal the aforementioned differences.
In the case of the Susvara, the changes are very welcome, if you are looking to upgrade from the stock cables.
I should add that I imagine the changes may be even more welcome, if you are looking to pair with a headphone with "muddier" upper-mids and treble. I can think of several flagship headphones that fall into this category, much more than the HIFIMAN Susvara, so that's there.
Overall, this cable gets my highest recommendation for its price.
I am an ardent audiophile and audio reviewer. My YouTube channel, Amplify, is here. My favorite headphone is the HIFIMAN Susvara. When Lavricables wanted to send in the Grand Line Silver Cable for review, I did not hesitate to say yes, because I wanted to test whether the cable would hold up to its reputation.
I was already aware that the cable could make sonic differences, as several Empyrean users have testified on Head-Fi and other platforms. I had read up on this cable, and was already aware that this cable could have the impact of clarifying the Empyrean's (relative) muddiness. Therefore, in order to compensate for this bias, I tested this cable both with my eyes wide open as well as through a blind test. In this review, I summarize impressions I gleaned through both blind-testing and open-eyed testing.
In any case, I would like to thank Konstantin of Lavricables for providing me with this review unit. I am not affiliated with Lavricables beyond this review, which reflects my true and unaltered opinions about the product.
Another important disclaimer is that I am a cable-believer. Yes, I believe there is a ton of snake oil in audio, whether it is overpriced headphones, speakers, amplifiers, DACs, and of course, cables. I also think that cables are the last thing you should upgrade in your audio chain. But if you have a revealing enough system, and you know what to listen for, a good cable should yield perceptible sonic differences that do not even require a blind test.
About Lavricables:
The brand Lavricables was created in 2012 by hobbyists. The founders operated from the standpoint that cable manufacturers were over-charging for cables. While keeping prices relatively reasonable, to ensure quality, they use silver, known for its neutrality, tonal balance, sound stage openness; while using braided solid core cable geometry to eliminate radio frequencies and electromagnetic interference. Lavricables makes cables for most of the headphones and IEMs available on the market and open to customizations on request. Their website is here and blog here.
Price:
The price is EUR 399 for 1.2 meters with 2x Aeco 3.5mm plugs and Aeco 4-Pin XLR. The unit I reviewed was 1 meter, upon request (priced the same as for 1.2 meters). Purchase link here.
Technical Specifications:
- Model: Grand Line
- Structure: Multi-strand Litz
- Wire Diameter: Awg20 per each wire
- Material: 6N purity Cryo-treated Silver (49 enamelled cores in soft PVC)
- Connectors: Pure Copper AECO
- Cable: Handmade 4-Core Braided
- Cable Length: 1 meter for review
Holo Audio May DAC > Accuphase e380 integrated amplifier > Stock Cables > HIFIMAN Susvara
Holo Audio May DAC > Accuphase e380 integrated amplifier > Lavricables Grand Line Silver > HIFIMAN Susvara
Build, Ergonomics, and Customer Service:
In my opinion, the cable is an absolute stunner. Cables I have seen look this good are usually available in much higher price brackets. It is robust, nice to the touch, and does not coil easily, unless you want to coil it into a circle, which is easy to do. The AECO XLR feels absolutely premium and adds to the feeling you are dealing with a high-end cable. The splitter is a transparent piece which keeps the design minimalistic. The cable comes in a nice little black cloth bag with Lavricables logo.
Overall, my experience dealing with Konstantin of Lavricables was an absolute pleasure. I am usually the sort who responds to emails within minutes and I was glad to see a kindred soul in Konstantin. The entire process of ordering, specifying cable particularities, and shipping was handled with timely and clear communication, which is laudable, given many cable manufacturers are so difficult to pin down, even if their craft is great.
Sound Impressions:
When I first plugged the new cable in and fired the Susvaras up, I knew immediately a certain change was afoot.
Compared the stock Susvara cable, the change was very evident. If I were to summarize the contributions of the Lavricables cable, they would be as follows: an opening up of sound stage; a greater sense of upper mid-range clarity and lower treble clarity; more air; and a tighter bass. There were also faster transients compared to the stock cable as well as more "punch" and dynamics.
To dive into particularities:
Bass: The bass is perceptibly tighter and faster on the Lavricables cable. Playing Daft Punk's contact, drum beat attacks are faster, which of course, is not just a function of bass, there is certainly a clarity with which bass notes come through. Overall, I would not say that there is "more" or "less" bass because of the cable, but a certain cleanliness to the bass presentation, which is noticeable. This was also evident playing rock tracks like Bruce Dickinson's Darkside of Aquarius.
Midrange: The HIFIMAN Susvaras are already the master of Midrange, but the Lavricables do appear to add more clarity to the upper midrange, which renders the presentation of tracks even more crystal clear. In fact, the clarity of presentation of the Susvaras on the Lavricables is stunning. There is no longer a window through which you perceive the music. The window is broken and you have the mix itself.
In that sense, the cables do appear to have the effect of bringing you closer to the music, not in terms of sound stage intimacy, mind you, but in terms of pushing you "closer to the mix" which is why I personally prefer headphone listening to speaker listening. Combos like the Lavricable with the Susvara are reasons why my Sonus Faber Electa Amator III's don't get as much listening time!
Treble: In terms of treble frequencies, both the lower-to-mid treble as well as the air region comes through more clearly on the Lavricable + Susvara combo. So that translates to more clearer rendition of piano notes, and a more acute representation of air frequencies, which means vocals will sound as breathy as they are intended to, cymbals as shimmery as they are meant to, and so forth.
Technical Performance:
There is an overall improvement in technical performance. I do perceive more details on the Lavricables cable. My attention is drawn to trailing edges of tones, spacial cues, and such things. I also perceive an improvement in sound stage width, faster transients, attack of notes, etc. Transitions from louder to quieter passages are handled more delicately.
These differences in technical performance are not night-and-day, but given that I am already in the business of paying for nuance, I would say they are small but remarkable. Of course, what is remarkable to me, may not be remarkable to you. In the TOTL space, every little change tends to be greeted with enthusiasm, and why not.
Conclusion:
At 400 Euros, the Lavricables Grand Line Awg20 Silver Cable is a solid investment, and I dare say, a value-for-money one. Let's not forget that high-end cables people buy for headphones like the Susvara and the Abyss 1266 Phi TC are frequently in the $1000-2000 range.
Yes, it's about nuances, and the differences are not night and day, but to me, it's certainly not placebo in play or pyscho-acoustics. The changes are immediate when switching back-and-forth between cables. They are also evident in blind-tests, especially when playing tracks that can reveal the aforementioned differences.
In the case of the Susvara, the changes are very welcome, if you are looking to upgrade from the stock cables.
I should add that I imagine the changes may be even more welcome, if you are looking to pair with a headphone with "muddier" upper-mids and treble. I can think of several flagship headphones that fall into this category, much more than the HIFIMAN Susvara, so that's there.
Overall, this cable gets my highest recommendation for its price.
Mini Review:
Using a Burr-Brown DAC Chip, the iFi Hip DAC offers surprisingly good sound quality for its price. I managed to get a review unit from Gears for Ears, a leading audiophile store in Bangladesh, and was very impressed. For reference, I am used to large desktop amps and dacs. My current setup is a Holo Audio May DAC and an Accuphase e380 Integrated Amplifier which I use to drive both headphones and speakers.
This is a warm sounding DAC Amp combo with 400 mW of power, which is enough to drive headphones. Both my Focal Clear and Sennheiser HD 650 were driven well. I used the Final Audio A8000 which can be analytical, and while the Hip DAC represented the A8000's sound signature well, I did notice a slight dip in lower treble, compared to the upper treble.
The bass-boost function works exceedingly well, and it was rollicking good fun with the Sennheisher HD 650.
Video Review:
Using a Burr-Brown DAC Chip, the iFi Hip DAC offers surprisingly good sound quality for its price. I managed to get a review unit from Gears for Ears, a leading audiophile store in Bangladesh, and was very impressed. For reference, I am used to large desktop amps and dacs. My current setup is a Holo Audio May DAC and an Accuphase e380 Integrated Amplifier which I use to drive both headphones and speakers.
This is a warm sounding DAC Amp combo with 400 mW of power, which is enough to drive headphones. Both my Focal Clear and Sennheiser HD 650 were driven well. I used the Final Audio A8000 which can be analytical, and while the Hip DAC represented the A8000's sound signature well, I did notice a slight dip in lower treble, compared to the upper treble.
The bass-boost function works exceedingly well, and it was rollicking good fun with the Sennheisher HD 650.
Video Review:
Samin Zaman
Exilent Bhai 
Somatic
Do you think the Hip Dac is worth it for the A8000? How is the sound different than stock IPhone? I have a Chord TT2 that I can use in desktop mode but wondering what a good portable solution would be for the A8000. Thanks.
Hello Audiophiles! My name is Sajid Amit, and I review mostly for fun. I own the Hifiman HE-R10P and it was kindly brought to me from China by Gears for Ears, a leading audiophile store in Asia, based out of Bangladesh. If you would rather watch the video review, here goes.
Full written review as follows.
Background:
The HIFIMAN HE-R10P is Hifiman’s latest flagship closed-back planar magnetic headphone. The name and the design is intended to be an homage to the legendary Sony MDR-R10, discontinued about 20 years ago. Interestingly, the Sony’s R10 was priced at $2500 in 1989, which in today’s price, is roughly $5340, very close to the R10P price of $5500.
If you are looking for a TLDR, quick impressions as follows.
Quick Impressions:
The HIFIMAN HE-R10P is a very technically proficient headphone with a warm, mid-centric sound signature. In terms of technical attributes, it is a very dynamic and punchy headphone. It has class-leading imaging compared to any flagship headphone, open or closed. It also stages better than many flagship open-backs, and certainly better than any closed-back out there.
Is it the best closed-back in the market? I think so. Moreover, coupled with the Hifiman Bluemini adapter (sold separately), it is certainly the best Bluetooth headphone out there, bar none.
But is it worth $5500? Well, that is a decision only you can make for yourself, depending on how much you value a closed-back headphone that allows you to be portable with your DAP or using Hifiman's bluetooth adapter, while still getting incredible technical performance.
I have to say though that I was amazed at how well the HIFIMAN Bluemini drives this headphone. This headphone is engineered to sound close to its peak performance off the Bluemini.
Specs:
In terms of aesthetics, these headphones have generated some debate. To the question of whether Hifiman should have redone the Sony design, even as an homage, I say why not. I understand why an enthusiast like Dr. Fang Bian would want to experiment with a revered design to try to push the limits of audio experience in 2021.
In general, the ear cups are bright orange, and if you like wooden designs with grains and such niceties, and you don’t mind an unconventional design, you will like these cups.
Build quality wise, it is decent. I am not going to say that it feels as premium as Focal headphones; however, like other Hifiman headphones, it is supremely comfortable. I am able to wear this headphone for hours, and the leather finish on the headband is very comfortable, as are the cup insides. Clamp force is minimal, which translates to “okay” levels of isolation.
HIFIMAN includes three different cables in the box: a balanced XLR; single-ended quarter-inch; and a single-ended 3.5 mm.
Tonality
Tonality-wise, this is a warm-sounding headphone as indicated in the quick impressions. The bass is a strong point of the headphone. In fact, there is a good deal of bass on this headphone. Drum hits feel visceral, and although the bass is very fast, there is no reverberation you hear with other closed-backs.
Meanwhile, the mid-range has some energy in 500-3 kHz, which means that vocals sound forward, sweet, and rich, without becoming shouty or harsh. This headphone is particularly good for vocal-based tracks, especially female vocals, in my opinion. Guitars also sound great owing to the upper mid-range energy.
However, the one downside of the mid-range centric tuning is that the overall presentation can come off as bit polite and relaxed. It lacks the absolute sharpness and clarity of a Focal Utopia or if you are into IEMs, the Final A8000.
The politeness is also evident in the lower treble, although there is some sparkle when it is called for. Drum hits still have attack, cymbals have shimmer, but voices are not as breathy as on the Susvara. This is fine, as even the Harman 2018 target does not have as much air frequencies as I personally prefer.
This tuning is not a Harman tuning, which is fine, since Harman is simply meant to be an average for only 64% of consumers in a sample. This is a niche hobby after all, and you may well like a tuning that is unlike Harman’s.
Overall, this is a warm, bassy and mid-range centric headphone. I did not hear any treble peaks, but I am also not particularly treble sensitive.
Technical Performance
The HIFIMAN R10P is a technical performance beast.
Detail Retrieval: Micro-details abound, and this is by far the most detailed closed-back in the market. Many audiophiles agree that detail retrieval ability is a dimension of a headphone’s performance that is “easier to price” since it is relatively more obvious than other performance attributes. To that end, the R10P’s detail retrieval performance does not disappoint. It is far more detailed than the Focal Stellia.
Speed & Dynamics: This is both a fast and a dynamic headphone. Transient responses are class-leading, which worked well with Metallica’s S&M album. Meanwhile, on tracks such as “Trip like I Do” by Crystal Method, this headphone will punch and slam better than most headphones out there. This visceral excursive quality is a stand-out feature of this headphone.
Staging & Imaging: The R10P presents a very wide stage, aided by the angular and protruding cup design. It is certainly the best closed-back headphone for sound stage. The stage has width and depth, and often, you will hear sound from behind, giving the headphone a holographic stage presentation.
The imaging meanwhile is also excellent. Images are tall, and the center image is strong. You will be able to follow different instrument lines quite easily. In fact, I found myself doing this quite often with the R10P. In general, Hifiman’s headphones image really well, whether it is the Sundara, the Arya or the Susvara.
Timbre: The R10P has good timbre. Nothing sounds off. It’s not as shockingly natural sounding as the Susvara, but it has no major timbral flaws, which is what I would say for most headphones with decent timbre.
Bluemini:
What is the Bluemini? Hifiman’s Bluemini is a detachable Bluetooth module with a built-in DAC and amplifier. By using a detachable module, connected via a single-entry 3.5mm TRRS balanced input socket, the HE-R10P becomes a bluetooth headphone!
The sound of the R10P on the Bluemini shockingly good and I don’t think a conscientious audiophile will be able to tell apart the headphone’s cabled performance from Bluetooth performance, on most tracks.
The Bluemini is sold separately, but I highly encourage you get the Bluemini if you are getting the R10P.
BLUEMINI SPECIFICATIONS
Comparisons
No review is complete without comparisons. In this section, I compare the HE-R10P with headphones in a similar price range ($5000-$6000), as well as the Focal Stellia, which is generally considered the best closed-back in the market (pre-arrival of the HE-R10P).
Susvara vs HE-R10P:
Switching to the Susvara immediately gives you a large sound stage. The presentations are very different. The Susvara has clearly more air around instruments while the R10P has substantially better slam, punch, and more bass energy. The R10P has a darker presentation, overall. I would say the Susvara mids are relatively linear, while the R10P has more upper midrange energy, which gives it a more forward presentation. Technically, the Susvara has more micro details and a wider sound stage, but the R10P has a pretty impressive staging given it is a closed-back.
Stellia vs HE-R10P:
The Focal Stellia has a more premium build quality and a more conventional aesthetic. In terms of tonality, the R10P is warmer, and is more exciting in the bass. The HE-R10P also has noticeably stronger technical capabilities, particularly in punch and slam as well as imaging and staging. However, the Stellia has a more conventional and “safer” tuning, for whatever that is worth.
Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC vs HE-R10P:
In some ways, the HE-R10P feels like a child born out of wedlock between the Hifiman Susvara and the 1266 Phi TC. It is more bassy and slammy like the TC, compared to the Susvara. However, it does voices very well, which the Susvara does better than the TC. However, it does not have the Susvara’s air. The 1266 Phi TC is still more technically proficient than the R10P, at a similar, or slightly lower price. Of course, the R10P has the closed-back and bluetooth use cases going for it, so that's there.
Genre Matching
The Hifiman HE-R10P plays particularly well with rock, electronic music, pop music, as well as vocals-based music. In addition it plays well with strings, wood and wind instruments, although for more audiophile varieties such as classical and jazz, I would personally prefer the Susvaras which have more energy in the air frequencies. Metal heads, and lovers of EDM and other genres that call for punch and slam, will particularly enjoy this headphone.
Summary:
Every time you buy a summit-fi headphone like an Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC or a Hifiman Susvara, you are not only spending the $5000-$6000 on these headphones, but, likely several thousand dollars more, on an appropriate amp, DAC, and cables.
Many Susvara owners I know will buy a top-of-the line speaker amp and get an endgame DAC. Meanwhile, many TC owners I know will either go the speaker amp route or buy a kilobuck-level headphone amp and DAC. And then there are cables, where Susvara and Phi TC owners will spend hundreds if not thousands of dollars.
The end result is that a Susvara or an Abyss 1266 Phi TC owner will build a rig worth $8000-$10,000 around his/her favorite headphone.
If you want a taste of what that rig sounds like, but want to spend relatively less, and still be mobile within the house (or outside), then the Hifiman HE-R10P is worth a look. Ultimately, the R10P stands out to me because while being portable, it is technically more capable than other closed-backs in the market, with a lot of "excursive power." People’s preferences regarding tuning, may, of course, vary.
Well, that’s it, then.
If you like this review, please follow my YouTube page for the upcoming video review of the Hifiman HE-R10P on the Amplify Audiophile Show. You can email me at sh2367@caa.columbia.edu for any questions.
Full written review as follows.
Background:
The HIFIMAN HE-R10P is Hifiman’s latest flagship closed-back planar magnetic headphone. The name and the design is intended to be an homage to the legendary Sony MDR-R10, discontinued about 20 years ago. Interestingly, the Sony’s R10 was priced at $2500 in 1989, which in today’s price, is roughly $5340, very close to the R10P price of $5500.
If you are looking for a TLDR, quick impressions as follows.
Quick Impressions:
The HIFIMAN HE-R10P is a very technically proficient headphone with a warm, mid-centric sound signature. In terms of technical attributes, it is a very dynamic and punchy headphone. It has class-leading imaging compared to any flagship headphone, open or closed. It also stages better than many flagship open-backs, and certainly better than any closed-back out there.
Is it the best closed-back in the market? I think so. Moreover, coupled with the Hifiman Bluemini adapter (sold separately), it is certainly the best Bluetooth headphone out there, bar none.
But is it worth $5500? Well, that is a decision only you can make for yourself, depending on how much you value a closed-back headphone that allows you to be portable with your DAP or using Hifiman's bluetooth adapter, while still getting incredible technical performance.
I have to say though that I was amazed at how well the HIFIMAN Bluemini drives this headphone. This headphone is engineered to sound close to its peak performance off the Bluemini.
Specs:
- Frequency Response: 10Hz-60kHz
- Impedance: 30Ω
- Sensitivity: 100dB
- Weight: 460g
- Socket: 3.5mm Balanced
- Roon > Holo Audio May > Accuphase e380 > Hifiman R10P
- Roon > Holo Audio May > Topping A90 > Hifiman R10P
- Astell&Kern Kann Alpha > Hifiman R10P
In terms of aesthetics, these headphones have generated some debate. To the question of whether Hifiman should have redone the Sony design, even as an homage, I say why not. I understand why an enthusiast like Dr. Fang Bian would want to experiment with a revered design to try to push the limits of audio experience in 2021.
In general, the ear cups are bright orange, and if you like wooden designs with grains and such niceties, and you don’t mind an unconventional design, you will like these cups.
Build quality wise, it is decent. I am not going to say that it feels as premium as Focal headphones; however, like other Hifiman headphones, it is supremely comfortable. I am able to wear this headphone for hours, and the leather finish on the headband is very comfortable, as are the cup insides. Clamp force is minimal, which translates to “okay” levels of isolation.
HIFIMAN includes three different cables in the box: a balanced XLR; single-ended quarter-inch; and a single-ended 3.5 mm.
Tonality
Tonality-wise, this is a warm-sounding headphone as indicated in the quick impressions. The bass is a strong point of the headphone. In fact, there is a good deal of bass on this headphone. Drum hits feel visceral, and although the bass is very fast, there is no reverberation you hear with other closed-backs.
Meanwhile, the mid-range has some energy in 500-3 kHz, which means that vocals sound forward, sweet, and rich, without becoming shouty or harsh. This headphone is particularly good for vocal-based tracks, especially female vocals, in my opinion. Guitars also sound great owing to the upper mid-range energy.
However, the one downside of the mid-range centric tuning is that the overall presentation can come off as bit polite and relaxed. It lacks the absolute sharpness and clarity of a Focal Utopia or if you are into IEMs, the Final A8000.
The politeness is also evident in the lower treble, although there is some sparkle when it is called for. Drum hits still have attack, cymbals have shimmer, but voices are not as breathy as on the Susvara. This is fine, as even the Harman 2018 target does not have as much air frequencies as I personally prefer.
This tuning is not a Harman tuning, which is fine, since Harman is simply meant to be an average for only 64% of consumers in a sample. This is a niche hobby after all, and you may well like a tuning that is unlike Harman’s.
Overall, this is a warm, bassy and mid-range centric headphone. I did not hear any treble peaks, but I am also not particularly treble sensitive.
Technical Performance
The HIFIMAN R10P is a technical performance beast.
Detail Retrieval: Micro-details abound, and this is by far the most detailed closed-back in the market. Many audiophiles agree that detail retrieval ability is a dimension of a headphone’s performance that is “easier to price” since it is relatively more obvious than other performance attributes. To that end, the R10P’s detail retrieval performance does not disappoint. It is far more detailed than the Focal Stellia.
Speed & Dynamics: This is both a fast and a dynamic headphone. Transient responses are class-leading, which worked well with Metallica’s S&M album. Meanwhile, on tracks such as “Trip like I Do” by Crystal Method, this headphone will punch and slam better than most headphones out there. This visceral excursive quality is a stand-out feature of this headphone.
Staging & Imaging: The R10P presents a very wide stage, aided by the angular and protruding cup design. It is certainly the best closed-back headphone for sound stage. The stage has width and depth, and often, you will hear sound from behind, giving the headphone a holographic stage presentation.
The imaging meanwhile is also excellent. Images are tall, and the center image is strong. You will be able to follow different instrument lines quite easily. In fact, I found myself doing this quite often with the R10P. In general, Hifiman’s headphones image really well, whether it is the Sundara, the Arya or the Susvara.
Timbre: The R10P has good timbre. Nothing sounds off. It’s not as shockingly natural sounding as the Susvara, but it has no major timbral flaws, which is what I would say for most headphones with decent timbre.
Bluemini:
What is the Bluemini? Hifiman’s Bluemini is a detachable Bluetooth module with a built-in DAC and amplifier. By using a detachable module, connected via a single-entry 3.5mm TRRS balanced input socket, the HE-R10P becomes a bluetooth headphone!
The sound of the R10P on the Bluemini shockingly good and I don’t think a conscientious audiophile will be able to tell apart the headphone’s cabled performance from Bluetooth performance, on most tracks.
The Bluemini is sold separately, but I highly encourage you get the Bluemini if you are getting the R10P.
BLUEMINI SPECIFICATIONS
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz-20kHz
- AMP Output in fact: 230mw
- AMP Output in theory: 1125mw
- TDH: <0.1% @ 1W/1KHz
- SNR: 95dB
- Battery Life: 7-10 Hours
- Weight: 25g
- Bluetooth Codecs: LDAC, aptx-HD, aptX, AAC, SBC
- Transmission: Bluetooth/USB Type C
Comparisons
No review is complete without comparisons. In this section, I compare the HE-R10P with headphones in a similar price range ($5000-$6000), as well as the Focal Stellia, which is generally considered the best closed-back in the market (pre-arrival of the HE-R10P).
Susvara vs HE-R10P:
Switching to the Susvara immediately gives you a large sound stage. The presentations are very different. The Susvara has clearly more air around instruments while the R10P has substantially better slam, punch, and more bass energy. The R10P has a darker presentation, overall. I would say the Susvara mids are relatively linear, while the R10P has more upper midrange energy, which gives it a more forward presentation. Technically, the Susvara has more micro details and a wider sound stage, but the R10P has a pretty impressive staging given it is a closed-back.
Stellia vs HE-R10P:
The Focal Stellia has a more premium build quality and a more conventional aesthetic. In terms of tonality, the R10P is warmer, and is more exciting in the bass. The HE-R10P also has noticeably stronger technical capabilities, particularly in punch and slam as well as imaging and staging. However, the Stellia has a more conventional and “safer” tuning, for whatever that is worth.
Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC vs HE-R10P:
In some ways, the HE-R10P feels like a child born out of wedlock between the Hifiman Susvara and the 1266 Phi TC. It is more bassy and slammy like the TC, compared to the Susvara. However, it does voices very well, which the Susvara does better than the TC. However, it does not have the Susvara’s air. The 1266 Phi TC is still more technically proficient than the R10P, at a similar, or slightly lower price. Of course, the R10P has the closed-back and bluetooth use cases going for it, so that's there.
Genre Matching
The Hifiman HE-R10P plays particularly well with rock, electronic music, pop music, as well as vocals-based music. In addition it plays well with strings, wood and wind instruments, although for more audiophile varieties such as classical and jazz, I would personally prefer the Susvaras which have more energy in the air frequencies. Metal heads, and lovers of EDM and other genres that call for punch and slam, will particularly enjoy this headphone.
Summary:
Every time you buy a summit-fi headphone like an Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC or a Hifiman Susvara, you are not only spending the $5000-$6000 on these headphones, but, likely several thousand dollars more, on an appropriate amp, DAC, and cables.
Many Susvara owners I know will buy a top-of-the line speaker amp and get an endgame DAC. Meanwhile, many TC owners I know will either go the speaker amp route or buy a kilobuck-level headphone amp and DAC. And then there are cables, where Susvara and Phi TC owners will spend hundreds if not thousands of dollars.
The end result is that a Susvara or an Abyss 1266 Phi TC owner will build a rig worth $8000-$10,000 around his/her favorite headphone.
If you want a taste of what that rig sounds like, but want to spend relatively less, and still be mobile within the house (or outside), then the Hifiman HE-R10P is worth a look. Ultimately, the R10P stands out to me because while being portable, it is technically more capable than other closed-backs in the market, with a lot of "excursive power." People’s preferences regarding tuning, may, of course, vary.
Well, that’s it, then.
If you like this review, please follow my YouTube page for the upcoming video review of the Hifiman HE-R10P on the Amplify Audiophile Show. You can email me at sh2367@caa.columbia.edu for any questions.
Attachments
Sajid Amit
@protoss, Oh I have to take a look at the video and correct for that then. I did get good dynamics!
2000 Dollar IEM Shoot-out:
64 Audio U12t VS Final Audio A8000
64 Audio U12t VS Final Audio A8000
In this “2000-dollar IEM Shoot-out”, I compare the much-loved 64 Audio U12t with the venerable Final Audio A8000, two flagship IEMs that I have had the pleasure of owning. I am more of a headphone user, so I decided to keep one and sell the other. Read till the end to find out which I kept, and which I sold off!
In this review/comparison, I will go through technical, timbral and tonal characteristics of each IEM, giving each a score of 1 or 0, depending on which performs better for each characteristic. In case of a tie, I will give 0.5 to each.
Let the games begin!
Source
FLAC Library & Tidal Master=> AK Kann Alpa => Final A8000 / 64 Audio U12t
Music
I test with multiple tracks across a range of genres: jazz, electronic, rock, metal, pop, and some orchestral thrown in, to test sound stage.
Cables/Tips, etc.:
- With the 64 Audio U12t, I use a 100-dollar Effect Audio Virtuoso cable instead of the stock cable. For tips, I use Spinfit CP-145 and Apex Module M20; this combo, I feel, gives it the most balanced presentation between higher and lower frequencies. But I do use the M20 when exploring this IEM’s bass.
- With the Final A8000, I use its stock SPC cable and stock Final e-tips.
A8000: The A8000’s shells are made of mirror-polished CNC-ed stainless steel. Despite the polygonal shape, the shape is ergonomic, with no chances of poking your ears. I find these IEMs comfortable, although wearing them requires a fraction of a second longer, to find the right fit. However, the shells pick up micro scratches and scuffs rather easily, so they need to be handled with higher-than-average levels of care. The supplied stock SPC cable is decent albeit slightly thin, and while not inflexible, certainly not the best cable out there.
U12t: The U12t design is straight forward. Each shell is a single machined piece of aluminum – without any obvious “wow” factor. The subtle design will attract many, but I found it a underwhelming. The supplied stock cable is poor, tangle-prone, and flimsy. The U12t also has swappable “Apex” modules: the m15 and m20 modules. The m20 add a slight sub-bass shelf, while the m15 enhances the stage slightly.
In aesthetics, build, and comfort, I give aesthetics to the A8000 and comfort to the U12t, while build is about equal; therefore, half a point for each.
Total Score: U12t: 0.5; A8000: 0.5.
Detail Retrieval:
A8000: The A8000 is a highly resolving IEM. Its detail retrieval abilities is further enhanced by its tuning. There is a near-magical clarity to the A8000’s presentation that reminds many people of the Focal Utopia. One way of looking at it is that if other IEMs give you a window to the music - the A8000 sort of breaks that window and gives you the music itself. Beyond the clarity, there is great reproduction of details across frequencies.
U12t: The U12t is slightly more detailed than the A8000, but this difference is not as significant as one might think. The U12t provides slightly better environmental cues. You hear echoes of voices and reverb of string instruments more clearly. That said, the U12t has an ever-so-slightly yet perceptibly “softer” presentation to the music. This reminds me of my Pass Labs XA25 amplifier’s presentation, or older R2R DAC’s presentation. This presentation allows U12t’s details to be presented in a more palatable way, and poor quality tracks perform significantly better on the U12t than on the A8000.
On detail retrieval, the U12t beats the A8000.
Total Score: U12t: 1.5; A8000: 0.5.
Speed and Dynamics:
A8000: To me, macro dynamics are integral to the enjoyment of music. On headphones/earphones with good macro dynamics, you feel the satisfying kick behind bass drums, a weighty snap to string instruments, and the attack of piano key strokes. The A8000 has outstanding macro dynamics. In fact, it is the best IEM that I have heard for dynamic slam and punch, bar none. This is a very visceral-sounding IEM, and very fast.
U12t: Meanwhile, the U12t has the best slam I have heard for a balanced armature IEM. But it is still some ways from the A8000. On electronic music with lots of slam, given the U12t’s bass energy and especially on the M20 module, you get quite close to the A8000’s level of slam. However, on tracks with simple drum lines, the U12t slam can appear soft and the texture less life-like. On the A8000, drums sound more lifelike, and the crunch of the wood hitting the leather will remind you of Focal headphones.
The A8000 easily takes this category.
Total Score: U12t: 1.5; A8000: 1.5
Soundstage and Imaging
Both IEMs have wonderful sound stage and imaging, considering limitations IEM's face with staging and imaging, owing to their positioning inside listener ears. I tested for staging and imaging with may tracks, among which was “Paper Moon” by Booka Shade, the German house duo. On this track, the music moves across the stage, and an IEM’s ability to keep up with the track’s playfulness is tested. Although both IEMs image and stage exceedingly well, the layering is better on the U12t. You can make out distinct layers and the U12t’s soundstage is also more holographic. Therefore, although the staging and imaging on the A8000 is very impressive, the U12t is one of the best IEMs out there, for this trait.
Overall, although the A8000 is strong performer in imaging and sound stage, the U12t wins this round.
Total Score: U12t: 2.5; A8000: 1.5
Timbre:
In audio, there are timbre-focused listeners, who tend to gravitate towards vocals, acoustic, jazz, classical, etc., and then you have listeners who have a higher tolerance for metallic or plasticky timbres. Then you have listeners who prefer a “softer” sound that they may call analog or “vintage.” I am personally a timbre-head, and I pay close attention to IEM and headphones’ timbral performance. When it comes to the two IEMs in question, each has a rather unique take on timbre.
The A8000 has superb timbre across the frequency range. The bass texture sounds more lifelike due to the high-performance beryllium drivers. The midrange sounds natural, weighty, and clear. Vocals sound phenomenal.
Meanwhile, the U12t has this interesting presentation where notes have softer edges which remind me of my Pass Labs XA25 speaker amp’s presentation or of older R2R DACs. Many listeners may opt for this “softer” timbre, and some call it an “analog” sound. However, this analog presentation can also give the U12t a muffled or a slightly hazy presentation, especially when A/B-ing with the A8000.
That sad, the A8000 also has its limits to timbral performance. I find that when it comes to synthesizers and reproducing them, particularly for industrial metal bands like Stabbing Westward, the U12t recreates them better.
However, for most tracks and genres, I find that the A8000 has more accurate timbral performance, owing to the U12t’s “softness”.
On timbre, the A8000 wins it for me.
Total Score: U12t: 2.5: A8000: 2.5
Tonal Performance:
For tonal performance, I will allocate a point for each of the three frequency ranges.
Bass: For bass, the U12t has outstanding bass extension and sub-bass energy. The bass impact is solid for an all-BA IEM. The A8000 has slightly less sub-bass, but its more natural sounding, and its bass texture and timbre are just wow.
The A8000 bass is the best and most accurate I have heard on an IEM, and yes, I have heard the Sony Z1R. On the track, “Busy Child” by the Crystal Method, the A8000 slams so hard, you would be forgiven for mistaking that you are wearing headphones. Bass performance goes to the A8000, for me, although the U12 is impressive.
Total Score: U12t: 2.5; A8000: 3.5
Midrange: Both IEMs are masters of the midrange although their presentations vary. Vocals are relatively recessed on the A8000 while being clearer. Meanwhile, the U12 has more forward vocals, while sounding “softer” and a tad thinner.
However, on the A8000, on tracks with complex vocal harmonics, background vocals can blend in with the foreground vocals. But I would never know this if I didn’t A/B with the U12t, which does vocal harmonics masterfully.
Midrange details are also more discernible on the U12t. Overall, both IEMs have outstanding midrange performance, but I give this to the U12t.
Total Score: U12t: 3.5; A8000: 3.5
Treble: Treble details are easier to make out on the A8000. However, in my opinion, the treble is both a strength and a relative weakness of the A8000, depending on your listening preferences. I personally love a sparkly treble as long as it glistens but does not bite.
The A8000 achieves this balance for the most part. However, on certain specific tracks with distortion from electric guitars or synths, especially if poorly recorded, the A8000 treble can come off as wonky. On these tracks, the U12t’s relatively softer treble presentation sounds better. The U12t’s tia driver is certainly a capable puveyor of treble frequencies, overall.
However, for all practical purposes, I personally bought the A8000 for its treble clarity and sparkle, and this clarity is not something I have found on any other IEM.
Therefore, for me, the A8000 wins it for treble.
Total Score: U12t: 3.5; A8000: 4.5
Conclusion:
If you have kept up with the tally of points, it should be clear which IEM I kept, and which I sold off. But in case it is not: I kept the Final A8000 and sold off the U12t.
That said, these are both surprisingly good IEMs, even for their price.Ultimately, if you want a “safer” and more laidback presentation, with great bass extension, decent slam, and a detailed but softer treble, get the 64 Audio U12t.
However, if you are a seeker of clarity without compromising timbre, and you will appreciate a winning combo of clarity, musicality, and best-in-class bass and slam, get the Final A8000.
The A8000 will push boundaries a bit with its treble energy, but I personally love this quality about these IEMs. And as always, your mileage may vary. Hope this was helpful.
Attachments
Sajid Amit
You are welcome @Samatar10
Vamp898
2000$ Earphone shootout without the IER-Z1R
Leto Dal
Still updating? 
Driver Type: Planar
Design: Over-Ear (Circumaural)
Earcup Style: Open-Back
Sensitivity: 94 dB
Impedance: 37 Ohms
DAC: Topping D90
Amplifier: Topping A90, Headamp GSX Mini, and Speaker Amps (Roksan K3 Integrated with Cayin SP30s as Pre-amp)
Disclaimer:
The pair of Hifiman Sundaras I am reviewing are a loaner unit from Gears for Ears, a top audiophile store and the authorized dealer of Hifiman in Bangladesh. I have owned the Sundaras prior, but sold it and subsequently purchased the Hifiman Arya and the Hifiman Susvaras. You could say it was my gateway to TOTL.
With all that out of the way, let's move on to the review. I will cover aesthetics, build quality, detail retrieval, speed, dynamic slam, sound stage and imaging, tonal balance, genre matching, and end with some thoughts on comparisons. In fact, throughout the review, I'll compare the Sundaras to its peers, the Sennheiser HD 600 and the HD 650, but still have a summary comparison section at the end.
Aesthetics: I find the design pretty. It's minimal and pleasing to the eye. If you have used higher-end headphones, you might not be blown away by the Sundara's design. However, if this is your first 350 dollar headphone, you are likely to be impressed.
Build Quality: The build quality is fine. I am aware of QC issues of Hifiman that people talk about, but other than their cables, I have been fine with their build quality.
Also, I get them from an authorized dealer called Gears for Ears (GFE). That gives me a lot of peace of mind.
Since I own multiple Hifiman headphones, and have been doing business with Hifiman through GFE for a while, I can say that Hifiman's customer service has been great!
Detail retrieval: The detail retrieval for the Sundara is best-in-class at its price range. It's better than the HD 600, 650 and 660s, although the 600 and 650 are among my favorites in this price range. I think the Sundara trades blows with headphones in higher price ranges, in terms of detail retrieval.
Speed: Oh, the speed. I love the Sundara's speed. I have thrown a lot of tracks that can test a headphone's speed, from speed metal to complex orchestras that start and stop, demand transient response capabilties, and the Sundaras do not disappoint. The speed scales better with more powerful amps (e.g., when I go from the A90 to the GSX Mini).
I have also played the Sundaras on my speaker amps, which I use to drive the Susvaras, and the Sundaras become even faster. Planars scale with better current supply, and speaker amps are not current limited, while headphone amps tend to be. However, I would not advocate using speaker amps with Sundaras. That's just me and my experiments.
Dynamic slam: The Sundaras have decent slam, when juiced properly. It's not a Hifiman Arya level slam, but it is a mini-Arya, really, especially when powered right. The slam improves considerably on my GSX-Mini compared to lower-end amps.
Sound stage and Imaging: This is where my raving of the Sundaras will be relatively muted, as the Sundaras have okay sound stage. It is nothing spectacular. But it's superior to the SS on the HD 650 and HD 600.
In terms of sound stage, I have been spoiled by my Hifiman Susvaras (and the Aryas), so I have high expectations.
However, this is a $350 headphone, so it stages okay for its price.
Tonal balance: The Sundaras have outstanding tonal balance. I just love its tuning. It's neutral yet highly engaging, and although each Hifiman headphone has a different take on "neutral yet highly engaging,"
In the higher frequencies, particularly, the air region, I think the Sundaras are a top-notch headphone, in any price category. The treble is magnificent on this headphone. In this category, it smokes headphones well, well above its price range.
Genre matching: The Sundaras are genre neutral. If you listen to modern music like rock or heavy metal, you will appreciate the speed, slam, and details, and the treble sparkle. If you listen to jazz or classical or acoustic-guitar-based music, you will appreciate its analytical yet musical sound signature.
However, as with anything else in audio, there are always compromises. These compromises are, of course, more evident when you compare them with peers. For instance, the higher price Focal Elegia will slam harder, and you will get more bass energy.
Comparisons with HD 600 and HD 650:
So if you had asked me 6 months ago to compare between the HD 600 or 650 with the Sundara, I would have picked the HD 650, then 600 and then the Sundara.
However, in the last 6 months, my tastes have been altered by listening to TOTL headphones such as the Hifiman Susvara, Abyss 1266 TC, Final D8000, Diana V2. I own several of these.
I think once you have listened to summit-fi, you start developing an appreciation for details, speed, and neutrality, combined with slam and sparkle. And in such ways, I think I prefer the Sundara over the HD 600 and HD 650.
The HD 600 and HD 650 are still magical headphones. I don’t think the Sundara does vocals the way HD 600 or even the HD 650 can. These Sennheiser cans do vocals better than the Focal Clears even which are 4X the price (the Clears may have slightly better vocal detail, but on timbre, the Sennheiser cans school the Clear). Moreover, the 650 sounds sweeter, warmer, thicker and lusher than the Sundara, which is great if that’s what you are looking for.
It really depends on what sound signature you are after. I think if you are starting out and can afford a couple of headphones, you could start out by owning the Hifiman Sundara and the HD 650.
They are good complements to each other.
In sum, I would strongly recommend the Hifiman Sundara at its price point!
Thanks to Gears for Ears for loaning me this unit. Their online store is here and their Facebook page here.
My video review comparing the HIFIMAN Sundara with the Sennheiser HD 600 and HD 650 below.
Design: Over-Ear (Circumaural)
Earcup Style: Open-Back
Sensitivity: 94 dB
Impedance: 37 Ohms
DAC: Topping D90
Amplifier: Topping A90, Headamp GSX Mini, and Speaker Amps (Roksan K3 Integrated with Cayin SP30s as Pre-amp)
Disclaimer:
The pair of Hifiman Sundaras I am reviewing are a loaner unit from Gears for Ears, a top audiophile store and the authorized dealer of Hifiman in Bangladesh. I have owned the Sundaras prior, but sold it and subsequently purchased the Hifiman Arya and the Hifiman Susvaras. You could say it was my gateway to TOTL.
With all that out of the way, let's move on to the review. I will cover aesthetics, build quality, detail retrieval, speed, dynamic slam, sound stage and imaging, tonal balance, genre matching, and end with some thoughts on comparisons. In fact, throughout the review, I'll compare the Sundaras to its peers, the Sennheiser HD 600 and the HD 650, but still have a summary comparison section at the end.
Aesthetics: I find the design pretty. It's minimal and pleasing to the eye. If you have used higher-end headphones, you might not be blown away by the Sundara's design. However, if this is your first 350 dollar headphone, you are likely to be impressed.
Build Quality: The build quality is fine. I am aware of QC issues of Hifiman that people talk about, but other than their cables, I have been fine with their build quality.
Also, I get them from an authorized dealer called Gears for Ears (GFE). That gives me a lot of peace of mind.
Since I own multiple Hifiman headphones, and have been doing business with Hifiman through GFE for a while, I can say that Hifiman's customer service has been great!
Detail retrieval: The detail retrieval for the Sundara is best-in-class at its price range. It's better than the HD 600, 650 and 660s, although the 600 and 650 are among my favorites in this price range. I think the Sundara trades blows with headphones in higher price ranges, in terms of detail retrieval.
Speed: Oh, the speed. I love the Sundara's speed. I have thrown a lot of tracks that can test a headphone's speed, from speed metal to complex orchestras that start and stop, demand transient response capabilties, and the Sundaras do not disappoint. The speed scales better with more powerful amps (e.g., when I go from the A90 to the GSX Mini).
I have also played the Sundaras on my speaker amps, which I use to drive the Susvaras, and the Sundaras become even faster. Planars scale with better current supply, and speaker amps are not current limited, while headphone amps tend to be. However, I would not advocate using speaker amps with Sundaras. That's just me and my experiments.
Dynamic slam: The Sundaras have decent slam, when juiced properly. It's not a Hifiman Arya level slam, but it is a mini-Arya, really, especially when powered right. The slam improves considerably on my GSX-Mini compared to lower-end amps.
Sound stage and Imaging: This is where my raving of the Sundaras will be relatively muted, as the Sundaras have okay sound stage. It is nothing spectacular. But it's superior to the SS on the HD 650 and HD 600.
In terms of sound stage, I have been spoiled by my Hifiman Susvaras (and the Aryas), so I have high expectations.
However, this is a $350 headphone, so it stages okay for its price.
Tonal balance: The Sundaras have outstanding tonal balance. I just love its tuning. It's neutral yet highly engaging, and although each Hifiman headphone has a different take on "neutral yet highly engaging,"
In the higher frequencies, particularly, the air region, I think the Sundaras are a top-notch headphone, in any price category. The treble is magnificent on this headphone. In this category, it smokes headphones well, well above its price range.
Genre matching: The Sundaras are genre neutral. If you listen to modern music like rock or heavy metal, you will appreciate the speed, slam, and details, and the treble sparkle. If you listen to jazz or classical or acoustic-guitar-based music, you will appreciate its analytical yet musical sound signature.
However, as with anything else in audio, there are always compromises. These compromises are, of course, more evident when you compare them with peers. For instance, the higher price Focal Elegia will slam harder, and you will get more bass energy.
Comparisons with HD 600 and HD 650:
So if you had asked me 6 months ago to compare between the HD 600 or 650 with the Sundara, I would have picked the HD 650, then 600 and then the Sundara.
However, in the last 6 months, my tastes have been altered by listening to TOTL headphones such as the Hifiman Susvara, Abyss 1266 TC, Final D8000, Diana V2. I own several of these.
I think once you have listened to summit-fi, you start developing an appreciation for details, speed, and neutrality, combined with slam and sparkle. And in such ways, I think I prefer the Sundara over the HD 600 and HD 650.
The HD 600 and HD 650 are still magical headphones. I don’t think the Sundara does vocals the way HD 600 or even the HD 650 can. These Sennheiser cans do vocals better than the Focal Clears even which are 4X the price (the Clears may have slightly better vocal detail, but on timbre, the Sennheiser cans school the Clear). Moreover, the 650 sounds sweeter, warmer, thicker and lusher than the Sundara, which is great if that’s what you are looking for.
It really depends on what sound signature you are after. I think if you are starting out and can afford a couple of headphones, you could start out by owning the Hifiman Sundara and the HD 650.
They are good complements to each other.
In sum, I would strongly recommend the Hifiman Sundara at its price point!
Thanks to Gears for Ears for loaning me this unit. Their online store is here and their Facebook page here.
My video review comparing the HIFIMAN Sundara with the Sennheiser HD 600 and HD 650 below.
Attachments
Balamani
Well written! it is the gateway and could be more too
Sajid Amit
Thanks @Balamani
