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You are looking for the best HIFIMAN noise cancelling headphones, but this guide focuses on their open and closed-back planar magnetic models. These products are over-ear, wired, and designed for audiophiles or studio use. We compared 7 options ranked by their published specifications. The top pick is the HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones. It leads because it offers accurate, low-distortion sound for critical listening at home.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones Best overall | Audiophiles using portable players | |
| 2 | HIFIMAN Edition XV Open-Back Headphones Also great | audiophiles seeking open-back planar detail | |
| 3 | HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Open-Back Headphones Best premium | audiophiles seeking accurate planar magnetic sound | |
| 4 | HIFIMAN Ananda Planar Magnetic Headphones Best budget | Detailed planar magnetic listening with portable devices | |
| 5 | HIFIMAN Ananda Unveiled Open-Back Headphones Also great | listeners seeking reduced grille interference | |
| 6 | HIFIMAN Ananda Nano Open-Back Headphones Also great | Audiophiles seeking detailed open-back sound staging | |
| 7 | HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones Best closed-back | closed-back planar magnetic listening |
HIFIMAN Headphones Compared by Specs
Most models here feature open-back planar magnetic drivers. The HE400SE and Edition XV prioritize wide soundstages for critical listening. The Ananda and Arya Stealth Magnet offer studio-grade accuracy with detachable cables or stealth magnet technology. These wired, over-ear designs suit audiophiles who value detail over portability. The Ananda Nano and Ananda Unveiled reduce grille interference for clearer imaging.
If you need isolation, the Sundara Closed-Back Planar provides wired fidelity in a closed design. It fits mixing and focused environments. All options are over-ear and wired. You should choose based on whether you prefer open or closed-back construction. Planar magnetic drivers deliver low distortion across the lineup. Select the model that matches your listening space and need for soundstage width.
HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles using portable players
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5 mm, 6.35 mm adapter
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Driver
- Planar Magnetic
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio
- Ear Style
- Stereo
The HIFIMAN HE400SE is an open-back, over-ear planar magnetic headphone designed for wired listening. It features stealth magnets that reduce wave diffraction for lower distortion. The high sensitivity matches well with low-voltage portable sources. Weighing 13.8 ounces, it includes a dual-sided 3.5mm cable with a 6.35mm adapter. This model suits audiophiles and studio users seeking accurate, full-range sound.
- Planar magnetic driver design for significantly lower distortion than conventional dynamic headphones
- Acoustically invisible stealth magnets reduce wave diffraction turbulence
- High sensitivity makes it a good match for low-voltage portable audio players
- Dual-sided 3.5mm cable included with 6.35mm adapter for wide device compatibility
- Open-back design does not provide passive noise isolation
- Wired connection requires a direct cable link to the audio source
- Weight of 13.8 ounces is substantial for long-term wear
- You want open-back planar magnetic sound for critical listening
- You use low-voltage portable hi-res audio players
- You prefer wired connections for studio or home use
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You require closed-back isolation for noisy environments
- You want a lightweight headphone under 10 ounces
Verdict: HIFIMAN HE400SE Planar Magnetic Headphones deliver accurate, low-distortion sound for audiophiles using portable players. The open-back design and wired connection suit critical listening at home.
HIFIMAN Edition XV Open-Back Headphones
Best for: audiophiles seeking open-back planar detail
- Form Factor
- Open-Back, Over-Ear
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Color
- Silver
- Weight
- 15.9 ounces
The HIFIMAN Edition XV are open-back, over-ear headphones designed for audiophiles. They use a Neo Supernano Diaphragm Gen.2, which is only 60% of the first-generation thickness. The design features an enhanced magnet structure using rare-earth-free materials to maintain sensitivity. Weighing 15.9 ounces, they include a new composite headband with rotatable hinges to reduce weight by 20-30g. These specs target listeners seeking detailed planar magnetic sound with improved comfort.
- Neo Supernano Diaphragm Gen.2 is 60% thinner than the previous generation.
- Enhanced magnet design uses rare-earth-free materials for comparable sensitivity.
- New composite headband reduces weight by 20-30g with rotatable hinges.
- Open-back over-ear fit suits audiophile listening environments.
- The 15.9-ounce weight is higher than typical lightweight alternatives.
- Open-back design offers less noise isolation than closed-back models.
- You want planar magnetic drivers with a thin diaphragm for detail.
- You prefer open-back headphones for a spacious soundstage.
- You value a lighter headband design with rotatable hinges.
- You need closed-back isolation for noisy environments.
- You prefer wireless Bluetooth connectivity for portability.
- You want a significantly lighter build under 12 ounces.
Verdict: HIFIMAN Edition XV Open-Back Planar headphones deliver a specialized planar magnetic experience with a thinner diaphragm and lighter headband. They are ideal for audiophiles who prioritize soundstage and detail over isolation and portability.
HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Open-Back Headphones
Best for: audiophiles seeking accurate planar magnetic sound
- Connectivity
- 3.5mm, 6.35mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Driver
- Planar Magnetic
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 4.69 × 4.09 × 2.83 inches
The HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Version is an over-ear planar magnetic headphone designed for audiophiles and studio use. It features a nanometer-thickness diaphragm and acoustically invisible stealth magnets to reduce distortion. The build uses metal and high-grade plastic for durability. Weighing 15.2 ounces, it offers a full-size fit. This model suits listeners seeking accurate, full-range sonic output with a classic aesthetic.
- Planar magnetic driver for accurate sound
- Stealth magnets reduce wave diffraction
- Nanometer thickness diaphragm core technology
- Metal and high-grade plastic construction
- User-replaceable 3.5mm connector design
- Weight of 15.2 ounces is substantial for all-day wear
- Open-back design limits sound isolation in noisy environments
- Fixed crystalline copper cable limits wireless convenience
- You prioritize driver technology and magnet design for studio accuracy
- You want a durable build with user-replaceable connectors
- You prefer an open-back fit for spacious sound staging
- You need wireless connectivity for mobile use
- You require heavy sound isolation for noisy commutes
- You prefer lightweight headphones under 10 ounces
Verdict: HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Over-Ear headphones deliver precise audio through advanced planar magnetic technology and stealth magnets. They fit audiophiles who value studio-grade accuracy and durable, open-back construction over portability.
HIFIMAN Ananda Planar Magnetic Headphones
Best for: Detailed planar magnetic listening with portable devices
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Driver
- Planar Magnetic
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Studio
- Color
- Black
The HIFIMAN Ananda is an open-back over-ear headphone featuring planar magnetic drivers with Stealth Magnet technology. It uses an ultra-thin 1 to 2 micron diaphragm for fast, detailed response. With high sensitivity, it works well with portable devices. Weighing 14.1 ounces, it offers a comfortable fit for studio use or critical listening sessions where accuracy matters.
- Planar magnetic drivers with Stealth Magnet design reduce wave diffraction turbulence.
- NEO supernano diaphragm is 80% thinner for faster, more detailed response.
- High sensitivity allows connection to virtually any smartphone or portable device.
- Window shade grill design reduces sonic reflections for clearer sound.
- Open-back design provides less noise isolation than closed-back models.
- 14.1 ounce weight is heavier than typical lightweight portable headphones.
- You want detailed, accurate sound from planar magnetic drivers.
- You use portable audio devices with high sensitivity requirements.
- You prefer open-back designs for spacious soundstages.
- You need closed-back isolation for noisy environments.
- You prefer lightweight headphones under 10 ounces.
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity.
Verdict: HIFIMAN Ananda Planar Magnetic Headphones suit listeners who prioritize detailed, accurate sound from planar magnetic drivers and high sensitivity for portable use. They are ideal for studio work or critical listening where open-back spaciousness is valued over isolation.
HIFIMAN Ananda Unveiled Open-Back Headphones
Best for: listeners seeking reduced grille interference
- Form Factor
- Open-Back, Over-Ear
- Color
- Silver
- Weight
- 15.9 ounces
The HIFIMAN Ananda Unveiled are open-back over-ear headphones featuring a window shade grille design to reduce acoustic interference. They use a Neo Supernano Diaphragm Gen.2 that is 60% of the first-generation thickness. The build includes a new composite headband that reduces weight by 20 to 30 grams. These specs aim for pure sound delivery and enhanced wearing comfort for critical listening.
- Window shade grille design reduces sound wave reflection
- Neo Supernano Diaphragm Gen.2 is 60% of the first-gen thickness
- New composite headband reduces weight by 20-30g
- Rare-Earth-Free permanent magnetic materials
- Weight of 15.9 ounces is heavier than the 12.3-ounce SUNDARA
- Open-back design offers less isolation than closed-back models
- Window shade design cannot completely avoid reflection and refraction
- You want reduced acoustic interference from the grille
- You prefer a lighter composite headband for comfort
- You listen in quiet environments suitable for open-back drivers
- You need noise isolation from external sounds
- You prefer a lighter build under 15 ounces
- You want a closed-back design for privacy
Verdict: HIFIMAN Ananda Unveiled Open-Back headphones suit listeners who prioritize reduced grille interference and a lighter headband. They are ideal for quiet spaces where open-back sound staging is preferred.
HIFIMAN Ananda Nano Open-Back Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles seeking detailed open-back sound staging
- Connectivity
- 3.5 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Driver
- Planar Magnetic
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Color
- Silver
The HIFIMAN Ananda Nano uses a planar magnetic driver with stealth magnets and a nanometer-thickness diaphragm. It delivers a frequency range from 5Hz to 55kHz with low distortion. The open-back design creates a wide sound field. High sensitivity allows use with portable devices. Weighing 14.8 ounces, it suits audiophiles seeking detailed imaging and transient response.
- Planar magnetic driver with stealth magnets reduces wave diffraction
- Frequency range extends from 5Hz to 55kHz for high detail
- High sensitivity enables use with portable audio devices
- Window shade grill design reduces sonic reflections
- Open-back design does not isolate noise from the environment
- Weight of 14.8 ounces is substantial for long sessions
- Requires specific amplification for optimal performance despite high sensitivity
- You prioritize detailed imaging and wide sound staging
- You listen in a quiet environment where open-back design works
- You want high sensitivity for use with portable devices
- You need active noise cancellation for travel or noisy spaces
- You prefer a lighter weight for extended wearing comfort
- You require closed-back isolation for shared spaces
Verdict: HIFIMAN Ananda Nano Planar Headphones deliver precise imaging and wide sound staging for audiophiles who value detail. They fit listeners who prioritize sound quality over noise isolation.
HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones
Best for: closed-back planar magnetic listening
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5mm, 6.35mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Driver
- Planar Magnetic
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing
The HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back uses a planar magnetic driver with stealth magnets to reduce sound reflections. Its beechwood ear cups and detachable 3.5mm cable suit audiophiles and studio work. Weighing 15.2 ounces, it offers an over-ear fit. This model provides detailed imaging through its thin diaphragm design. You get a wired connection for reliable audio without battery concerns.
- Stealth magnet design reduces diffraction
- Beechwood ear cups for style and acoustics
- Detachable dual-sided 3.5mm cable included
- Planar magnetic driver with thin diaphragm
- Heavier at 15.2 ounces than open-back competitors
- Wired connection limits wireless convenience
- You need closed-back isolation for studio mixing
- You prefer wired connections for audiophile listening
- You want planar magnetic detail in a closed design
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You need lightweight headphones for long wear
- You prefer open-back soundstage
Verdict: HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar is a solid choice for listeners who need isolation without sacrificing planar magnetic detail. It fits those who value wired fidelity and closed-back design for focused listening environments.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones | HIFIMAN Edition XV Open-Back Headphones | HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Open-Back Headphones | HIFIMAN Ananda Planar Magnetic Headphones | HIFIMAN Ananda Unveiled Open-Back Headphones | HIFIMAN Ananda Nano Open-Back Headphones | HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wired, 3.5 mm, 6.35 mm adapter | – | 3.5mm, 6.35mm | – | – | 3.5 mm | Wired, 3.5mm, 6.35mm |
| Form Factor | Over-Ear | Open-Back, Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Open-Back, Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Back Design | Open-Back | Open-Back | – | Open-Back | Open-Back | Open-Back | Closed-Back |
| Connection | Wired | – | – | – | – | – | Wired |
| Driver | Planar Magnetic | – | Planar Magnetic | Planar Magnetic | – | Planar Magnetic | Planar Magnetic |
| Fit | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Features | – | – | – | Detachable Cable | – | – | Detachable Cable |
| Use | Audiophiles, Studio | Audiophiles | Audiophiles, Studio | Studio | – | Audiophiles | Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing |
| Color | Silver,Black | Silver | Black | Black | Silver | Silver | black&orange |
| Ear Style | Stereo | – | – | – | – | – | – |
| Dimensions | 12 × 10.5 × 7.09 inches | – | 4.69 × 4.09 × 2.83 inches | 16 × 14 × 10 inches | – | – | 12.4 × 10 × 7.05 inches |
| Weight | 13.8 ounces | 15.9 ounces | 15.2 ounces | 14.1 ounces | 15.9 ounces | 14.8 ounces | 15.2 ounces |
| Model | He400SE | Edition XV | Arya Stealth Magnet Version | Ananda | ANANDA UNVEILED | ANANDA NANO | SUNDARA Closed-Back |
| Size | – | Adjustable | Adjustable | Ananda | Adjustable | adjustable | adjustable |
Who HIFIMAN Headphones Suit
HIFIMAN caters to listeners who value detailed, open-back sound staging. The range centers on planar magnetic drivers, with the HE400SE and Ananda Nano offering accessible entry points. The Edition XV and Ananda Unveiled provide lighter builds and reduced grille interference for extended sessions. The Arya Stealth Magnet delivers precise accuracy, while the Sundara offers closed-back isolation for focused environments. All models are wired and over-ear, designed for stationary use. You will not find Bluetooth connectivity, active noise cancellation, or compact travel designs in this lineup. These headphones prioritize fidelity and soundstage over portability or wireless convenience. They suit critical listening in quiet spaces rather than mobile or noisy environments.
How to choose HIFIMAN headphones
Check back design
Decide if you need isolation or a wide soundstage. Most models here use open-back designs, which let sound escape to create a spacious, natural image. This suits critical listening in quiet rooms. If you need to block outside noise, consider the Sundara Closed-Back Planar. It uses a sealed design to keep sound in. Choose open-back for home use and closed-back for noisy environments. The back design directly impacts your listening experience and privacy.
Confirm connection type
All listed HIFIMAN headphones are wired. They do not use Bluetooth or batteries. This ensures consistent, high-fidelity audio without latency or compression. You will need a dedicated amplifier or digital-to-analog converter for best results. Check your source device for the correct 3.5mm or 6.35mm jack. The detachable cable on the Ananda and Sundara allows for easy replacement if the wire wears out. Wired connections remain the standard for audiophile-grade planar magnetic performance.
Understand driver type
These headphones use planar magnetic drivers for accurate sound. The diaphragm is thin and supported by magnets across its entire surface. This reduces distortion and improves transient response. The HE400SE, Edition XV, and Ananda Nano all feature this technology. Planar drivers often require more power to drive than dynamic drivers. Ensure your portable player or desktop amp can provide sufficient current. This driver type delivers the detail and clarity audiophiles seek.
Evaluate fit and weight
All models are over-ear designs for full ear coverage. Weight varies from 13.8 ounces to 15.9 ounces. The HE400SE is the lightest option, which may improve comfort during long sessions. The Edition XV and Ananda Unveiled feature lighter headbands for reduced clamping force. Check the dimensions if you have a small head or wear glasses. The adjustable size ensures a secure fit for most users. Proper fit is essential for accurate sound staging and bass response.
Match use case
Select a model based on your primary activity. Studio professionals may prefer the Ananda or Arya for their accurate, neutral sound. Audiophiles seeking detail might choose the Edition XV or Ananda Nano. The HE400SE offers a balanced entry point for portable players. The Sundara is ideal for mixing where isolation matters. Consider your environment. Open-back models excel in quiet rooms. Closed-back suits noisy spaces. Align the headphone use with your listening habits.
Frequently asked questions
Are HIFIMAN headphones good for noise cancellation?
These models are not designed for active noise cancellation. They rely on physical isolation through closed-back designs or passive noise reduction. The Sundara offers a closed-back planar magnetic build for focused listening. Open-back models like the HE400SE allow sound to escape, making them unsuitable for noisy environments.
Do HIFIMAN headphones work with Bluetooth?
No, these models use wired connections only. They require a direct cable link to your audio source. This setup ensures low-distortion sound and stable fidelity. You will need a compatible 3.5mm or other wired output from your player or computer to use them effectively.
What driver type do HIFIMAN headphones use?
All listed models use planar magnetic drivers. This technology delivers accurate, low-distortion sound with detailed imaging. The drivers feature thin diaphragms for precise movement. This results in a wide soundstage and studio-grade accuracy, which audiophiles value for critical listening and studio work.
Which HIFIMAN headphones are best for portable use?
The HE400SE and Ananda are noted for portable players. They offer high sensitivity suitable for mobile devices. However, they remain wired and open-back. You must use them in quiet spaces. The Ananda Nano also provides detailed open-back staging for listeners prioritizing sound quality over isolation.
Are HIFIMAN headphones comfortable for long sessions?
Many models feature lighter headbands and adjustable sizes. The Edition XV and Ananda Unveiled have thinner, lighter headbands for extended comfort. The Ananda Unveiled also reduces grille interference. Weight varies from 13.8 to 15.9 ounces, with over-ear fits designed for prolonged critical listening sessions.
Do HIFIMAN headphones have detachable cables?
Some models include detachable cables for easy replacement. The Ananda and Sundara specifically feature this design. This allows you to swap cables if they wear out. It also lets you choose different cable types for your specific audio setup or portable device connection.
What is the difference between open and closed-back designs?
Open-back designs, like the HE400SE, let sound escape to create a spacious, natural image. They suit quiet rooms and critical listening. Closed-back models, like the Sundara, provide isolation without sacrificing planar magnetic detail. They are better for focused environments where you need to block external noise.