If you're thinking of purchasing a headphone today or in the near future, what would be your preference and why?

[Jasonovich]

I have been mulling over for some time about upgrading my Hifiman Edition XS to a newer better model.

I am ashamedly a Hifiman's fanbois but once you've listened to a good Planar Magnets headphone, everything else kind of, pales into insignificance.

I'm not saying Dynamic headphones aren't good, I love my Beyers and FiiO's. The Sennheiser 6's are amazing V-shaped sounding headphones but if you're looking for bass that feels like a punch to the stomach, clear crispy vocals and detail extraction, nothing comes close to planars.

Here's my shortlist

1. Must have but can't afford it!

Hifiman He1000 V2 not the newer Unveiled version, way too expensive but the original He's.

Why?
Sweet sounding but honest, micro detail and excellent throughout. USA imports are selling new £800+ (MRP is approx. £1,250)


2. Still expensive but looking for prices to come down.

Hifiman Arya Organic

Why?
Not as wide sound stage as the He1000 V2's but has some of it's characteristics and is cheaper. Looking for a deal or refurbished.


3. Thinking of my dream girl but end up with the bridesmaid

Hifiman He600 the newest version with the lighter planars.

Why?
Spiritual successor to the legendary He6's. Recent reviews suggests it has all the qualities of the old master but much improved, possibly down to the new planar design Prices currently hovering around £550, give it 6 months and it will be much cheaper.

View: https://youtu.be/O-oTyOwZIv8?si=OZmj5gUKFZbKkK15

View: https://youtu.be/LJO5Ydny5a8?si=Xay_XFdcK3frGrnT

 

[Jasonovich]

Sorted out my bucket list, ordered my Hifiman He1000V2 from Audio Affairs. These have been discontinued and if you look around they're going for a bargain if you consider £850 cheap! The same price on eBay as well.
The He1000se (special edition) are still selling normal retail price £1.5K, the V2's are not so prounced in the treble but vocals are more forward, the se's tend to be more recessed but have a wider soundstage.

The He1000V2 really need good amplification to get the best out of them, your dongle attached to your mobile isn't going to cut it. My SingXer's should be up to the task 🙂

Really delighted, as soon as they arrive, I'll package up my Edition XS and sell them on eBay.

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