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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
erik_squires
15,627 posts
 
If you check out HiFiMan, they often run good prices on their clearance items directly from their online store.
soix
8,597 posts
 
It really depends what sound characteristics you’re looking for, but if neutral is on your radar I’d take a hard look at the Hifiman Arya that more than one reviewer uses as their reference.  Hifiman sometimes offers open-box specials that are priced right near the top of your range, but they’re worth a stretch IMO.  I own their HE400S that are pretty darn good in their own right, and I know the Arya is a big step up from mine sonically.  If you’re after a warmer sound then Audeze is probably a better option.  Best of luck. 
fuzztone's avatar
fuzztone
5,496 posts
 
All I know is I have Quad and Stax. I’ve never heard any A or H that sounded better.
deadhead1000's avatar
deadhead1000
704 posts
 
I own Audeze and almost never listen to them, they seem dark and ‘closed” in their sound even though they are open back. So I don’t think you’d like them better then what you have. Just my opinion. You should listen to them or get good return policy just in case. 
soix
8,597 posts
 
All I know is I have Quad and Stax. I’ve never heard any A or H that sounded better.
Begs the question, which Hifiman ‘phones have you heard?  Here’s a comparison of the Arya to the Quad planar model by Soundnews.net...

Hifiman Arya ($1600) VS Quad ERA-1 ($800)

I will skip the boring stuff like the build quality and package contents. Arya is double the price of Quads and once you listen to them you will understand why.

Arya is offering at least one or two additional layers of dynamic range; Arya is having more micro-detail information and even an additional layer of sub-bass. In terms of treble performance Arya is completely in another league since it will render even sub-sonic information and has a much better upper-treble performance. There is a drop in the lower treble on the ERA-1 that makes them really easy-going and somehow smooth sounding. ERA-1 will not punish you as much if you are listening to lower-quality material, Arya will show everything be it good or bad.

Arya is also sounding more open, wider, more holographic and really envelops your head, ERA-1 is a bit more up-front sounding.

There is just one single thing that Quad ERA-1 is doing better than Arya and that is the slam. ERA-1 hits harder, on rock and electronica it can be too much at times, it will tire you down in the long run. If Arya would have the same slam and kick it would be the perfect headphone for me.


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