Audeze vs. HIFIMan vs. ??


Hello all, I'm in the market for a set of open-back over the ear headphones. My current price range is $800-1200 or so. I have a set of Beyerdynamic DT770 PROs but while comfortable, leave a bit to be desired in sound quality. I think some of their deficiency has to with the fact that they are close-backed. It's not like they're horrible but as with most things audio, there's always better. <g>

I like the idea of planar magnetics vs. traditional drivers. They strike me as being "electrostatic-like" without the added complexity of having to energize stators.

I've been seeing the brands mentioned above and would be interested in hearing people's, preferably current owners, opinion of them.

Thank you in advance. Happy Listening.
128x128musicfan2349

Showing 1 response by arafiq

+1 for Focals. I had both the Hifiman Arya and Focal Clears for more than a year. Both are excellent headphones, but I found the Clears to be better all-rounders with all kinds of music. The Aryas were good but sometimes the music felt a bit 'plasticky', for lack of a better word. It had better soundstaging than the Clear, but not enough dynamics and bass punch. There was something about the Clear that just felt more satisfying and wholesome.

I ordered Audeze LDC-3 and returned them within the trial window. They're quite good in their own way, but man you feel the weight after about 30 minutes of listening.

All three have their fans and detractors. Each does something better than the other. The best approach is to buy all three from vendors with good return policy, and keep the one you like the best.