Not to be mistaken with the Swedish home appliance manufacturer, Superlux is a Taiwanese company specializing in microphones, speakers, and headphones catering to a wide variety of customers, from casual music listeners to professional artists. However, despite their professional-oriented market, Superlux managed to sell their products at very competitive prices. One fine example would be the Superlux HD 668B studio monitoring headphones, which costs only $30.
Studio monitoring headphones. For $30. Did I just say $30?
Styled like an Audio Technica-AKG hybrid, the HD668B is very well-made. Its plastic body is finished in matte black, solid and smooth, with no jagged edges or uneven seams. Synthetic leather is found on the headband pads and big earpads, which feels very supple, and excellently stitched. Clamping force is just enough to keep the whole thing from moving around, but not so hard to induce dizziness and/or fatigue usually associated with over-clamping headphones. Isolation is quite good, although being a semi-open headphone, it won’t give an isolation that’s as good as a closed-back headphone. Also, the Superlux HD 668B comes with a detachable straight cable, which is slightly thicker than a Logitech computer mice’s cable, and terminated with a gold-plated plug. Just by looking at and holding it, you wouldn’t believe it is priced at $30.
RayZLight
wow! $30 and beats ms1i????gotta try it soon 🙂
creativegeek
this headphone give me great detail of my music. It makes me realize that my music collection (mp3 format) has some defects in its recording and ripping :))
Anonymous
Nice! May I ask where you get the HD668B from? Some people on some countries have been having difficulties obtaining Superlux headphones.
Richard Jacobs
I’m shopping for new headphones, and these (HD668B) look like a good starting point. I live in Vancouver, Canada, and was wondering if there are any distributors/suppliers that i can purchase from in Canada? If not where and how much to purchase in the US?
Paw Music
Richard, we are stocking Superlux products here in Vancouver. Check the online store website.
Valters
Hey, thanks for this nice review, couldnt find any other real review@intrawebz so wanted to ask – how good or bad would these be as monitoring headphones? Im in search for budget production headphones, cant afford monitor speakers yet. I was looking@ Audio Technica ATH-M50 before i found these. Comparable?
AC power
@ Richard Jacobs,
You can contact http://www.avlex.com for the purchase info in USA
Richard Jacobs
cheers AC Power.
wijiadi
just can't wait for your review of Superlux HD669.
Mike
HD669 huh? 😀 Let's see what we can do about that. 🙂
alx notown
Any news about the HD669 ? :p
Anonymous
I’ve tried it, and within some difference with the HD668B, I think it’s
generally a similar sound. What you should try is the HD440:
http://cdn-u.kaskus.us/21/j0rpxmt4.jpg
The sound signature is significantly warmer with more mid body. I
listened to it and thought the sound is very good for the price.
boredpig
wow nice!any idea if its possible to be bought in Singapore?
thuantran
Mike, how is this compare to higher price headphones like AD700 and my HD595? From your praises, I can't help but think this thing even easily beat those.
Mike
Hey, actually Dhani wrote that one. HD668B is really good sounding. Detail, clarity, punchy bass. Typical monitoring sound.
In terms of refinement, the AD700 and HD595 is still better. But the HD668B does some things better than those two. It really is a great buy for the price (~$30).
Roth
Thanks so much for bringing headphone users information about the Superlux HD668B. I still can't believe these are not talked about more often elsewhere.
I have tried Sennheiser HD600, Koss ESP/950, Denon AH-D5000, and AKG K701. (All fully broken in!) I am not embarrassed to say that I believe my 668B sounds more natural, accurate, as detailed and most of all the most enjoyable of all these. Truly astonishing headphones, regardless of price.
A word about breaking in the 668B: I have found they do need about 200 – 300 hours before the bass/midrange transition balances out and what fine grain there is, dissipates.
Thanks again, Mike!
Mike
Hi Roth, yea the HD668B are truly great.
Although I don't think it has the class and refinement to compete with the HD600, Koss ESP950, K701, but perhaps the 668B strikes a wonderful synergy with your music and amplifier.
Glad you enjoy it. I think one of the main reason that we don't see more people with HD668Bs is the limited distribution. They're not a very common headphone.
Roth
Mike,
I'm running them with an Oppo universal player and SACD's/DVD-A's through a Purity Audio K.I.C.A.S. headphone amp (all-discrete, no op amps).
Going back and forth between the 668B and K701, I can more easily discern backing vocals in the mix with the 668B, as well as a much better-balanced bass than K701. Also, the 668B sounds more natural in soundstaging and truer to the original recording, to these ears.
I hear an artificial "cavernous" quality to the K701 that overlays all recordings. The 668B is more chameleon-like in that it doesn't seem to add as much of its own signature. I think a strike against the 668B is its plastic housing does color the bass/lower mids to a small degree. This headphone will definitely lend itself to user modifications.
Thanks again for the opportunity to spread the word on the Superlux HD668B, Mike.
As an aside, I am beginning to see more outlets for the 668B, so rarity is less of an issue today.
Mike
Roth,
That’s a very detailed observation! I don’t have the K701 to compare with the HD668B at the moment, but I can relate to the differences you pointed.
I think what you said are valid, but I do think that the HD668B still lacks treble refinement compared to the K701, and that the frequency curve is a bit V-shaped. It depends on the recordings that you’re playing as well. Some Chesky recordings, for instance, are very good and also very smooth sounding. On such recordings you’ll find the HD668B to be marvelous. But try playing a regular mainstream recording, and you should hear the difference in refinement level.
The HD668B is a great headphone for the price, and I’m glad if more people are discovering it. But I still think that it’s not yet at the level to compete with the K701 (though the K701 do have many weaknesses of its own).
Bogart
Why compare these to the K701? I’m more interested in how they stack up against headphones in the $100-$150 range. If they are honestly in the same league as the AD700, K240, MS-1 etc, then they really are a steal.
Mike
I always feel that the AKG K240 is quite flat and boring, even the Sextett version which I had for a while. I definitely prefer the HD668B to the K240.
The AD700 is quite special with its entry level Audio Technica signature, and although it's not my favorite phone, I think the AD700 is still superior to the HD668B.
The MS1 (especially the MS1i), is quite special, and again, though not that far ahead the HD668B, I would still rank it above the HD668B.
Maybe we can plan a $100-$150 open headphone comparison to discuss this in more detail. 🙂
Roth
Mike,
Any luck rounding up those competitors in the $100 – $150 price bracket for a comparison?
Now that I have spent more time with the 668B and agree with your assessment they are not in the same class as AKG K701, Denon AH-D500, et al. I will say that they spend more time on my head than those others though, because they are more musically engaging.
I have done several things to modify the 668B and feel I have raised their performance level quite a bit. Now I listen to only two headphones – my HifiMan HE-5LE and Superlux HD 668B.
KK
At US$30 HD668B is a steal for a pair of headphones. For this price you surely can't be complaining because the value (price/performance ratio) is far greater than most headphones. However, please note that after this Headfonia review the prices have been climbing for Superlux products.
The HD668B has a very clear, transparent sound signature, which may tend (a little) to the analytical. Pairing it up with a warmer amp should create better synergy. Personally in my setup it has a tendency towards brightness which is quite different from, say, a Sennheiser, but it's nothing that matching cannot resolve.
I can see the HD668B gracing the house of many audiophiles. Clarity is quite amazing for its price. I'm sorry I have to sell this as the clamp is too strong for my (relatively large) head.
Mike
Thanks for the input! Haven't been following Superlux prices lately. They are very good and still be worth the price even if they raised it.
I also agree with what you said in sound, price-performance ratio, and yes the clamp can be a little too strong.
Chips
Great phones. Bought them on business trip to Taiwan for NT2400 = US$70. Cannot fathom why it costs more to buy it here than in the US. Its made by a company based here …??
Anyhow, used it with my ipod nano 5th gen, and it sounds more professional than my Grado MS1s. Tighter, better defined bass, more air, more space, and more detail. Goes well with classical music (good rips) and has great dynamics.
Tried it amped once I got back home, sounds even better. The bass is great and the level of transparency and detail trumps the MS1s.
For US$30, its a no brainer – a total steal. It will give you better music on an amped system with none of the edge of a Grado SR60/80/MS1. For 70 dollars, its still good value.
Warning – it is a very transparent and neutral-ish cans, as a monitor should be. It adds a little more bass than the best ones, and do not give you a huge soundstage, but its pretty unbeatable once again at the sub US$100 market. Also, if your source material is bad – these cans will not disguise it like a Grado or cheaper Senns, your ears will bleed from over trebley or badly recorded material.
But use it with a decent CD player (Modified KI signiture) and put it thru a good amp (Modified Accuphase E207) and this thing will make the US$30-50 dollar tag seem ridiculous.
Finally, if there is one critique, these are not boogey cans. They wont make flat sounding music more bearable. It doesn't give energy to sound. So its prob not the rockers choice. But with jazz, classics, acoustics and vocals, its great.
Mike
Thanks for the comments. I do agree with a lot of the things that you said, and in some areas you described the HD668B better than what Dhani (the author) did. This is why it's good to have informative comments such as yours, because sometimes our writing can be fairly limited, and another point of view will give a better description.
On a side note, it is quite surprising to hear that the Superlux costs more in Taiwan. Yes it is a Taiwanese brand, and it should be cheaper there. Perhaps you didn't find a good store?
Eric
Mike, how did you get Superlux in Singapore? Amazon dealers don’t seem to ship internationally except at exorbitant rates, and Superlux’s website lists no local distributors.
Mike
Eric, I’m based in Indonesia and we have an agent for Superlux here. That’s a pity to hear that there is no Superlux distributor in Singapore. There isn’t much that I can do about that.
Bert
Hi Eric,
This comes a tad late but I bought my pair in Singapore from http://woodworkz.com.sg/. They have a few items from the Superlux range in the store when I was last there. Not sure if they still have stock though.
andrewinukm
KK, Mike,
You can stretch the steel cable to reduce the clamping force to suit your preference. I did that to mine and they rest nicely over my ears.
No reason to complain about it's clamping force when a little elbow grease is all it takes. 😉
Eric,
You might want to enquire about it in JB. KL definitely has them (Instraco stocks them).
Mike
Andrew, thanks for adding in the information. 🙂
Doyen Keaton
Man … Don't know who selling them for 30. $ I have to buy them by the case to get them just in the mid 20's and now can't get them at all due the wholesale almost doubling…. I do have in stock and fell in love with the the Superlux HD-681 they are mind-blowing and retail 10$ less then the 668B… and we use them in the studio and for critical listening. Doyen AudioHIpster
mike_headfonia
Seems like the prices have went up quite considerably for these HD668Bs. Either that, or we got them for a very very cheap price.
Quantum
These headphones are amazing. I haven't heard any of the other headphones you compared them to but they are way better than any I owned so far. Anyone who says they are too neutral, "boring", or what not… stop listening to boring music 😉 So much detail.
Thanks again Doyen for these headphones, great purchase 🙂
Mike
Sounds good, Quantum.
They have a neutral monitoring sound, so that may sound boring to some people who prefers colorations. 🙂
nders
hey mike, i currently own the K702, and crave a bit more for bass (K702 users' common disease XD), is this 'phones a worthy side purchase along with my K702? i mean, for rock/pop/low freq orchestra/movies etc, will it plays better than my K702?
Thanks!
Mike
Hi nders,
The 668B isn't exactly a bass specialist. Why not get a closed headphone for that duty?
nders
but headstage is still my first priority, just that sometimes the serious handicap on bass on K702 is making me wanting it more. is HD600 a better choice than 650 if i wanted more LF and still able to listen to orchestra music?
Thanks!
Mike
Hi nders,
Headstage and good bass seem to be two characters that is difficult to get in one package. The K701, the K501, the AD700, for instance all suffer from so-so bass.
If you want to listen to Orchestra, the HD650 is actually the better choice than the HD600. Of course both the HD600 and HD650 will give better bass performance than the K701. But I don't think you're going to get the K701's headstage with those phones unless you have some serious amplifier at hand.
I think something like the Ultrasone Pro900 will give you the headstage and the bass that you want. As you know, they do come with the S-Logic feature which is a love/hate thing, but I do think that the Pro900 is one of the best among Ultrasone's line. It should also work well with Orchestra.
nders
wow. it just so happens that the ONLY highend headphones I saw here in Kuching is the Pro900. guess i'll go audition it some time soon! thanks for the detailed explanations. filled in a big gap of my hollow 🙂
nders
wow. it just so happens that the ONLY highend headphones I saw here in Kuching is the Pro900. guess i'll go audition it some time soon! thanks for the detailed explanations. filled in a big gap of my hollow 🙂
ah yeah, another question: the black silk 650 and silver, do they sounded ALOT different? from what i read the older driver black version has a rolled off highs that sounded veiled. is it very apparent? coz I saw someone selling a black ver. kinda tempted. good price too 🙂
Mike
HD650 black and silver: you can say the difference is a lot, you can say the difference is minimal, depending on your point of view The problem is that with a HD650 you need to get some heavy duty amplification. Not so with the Pro900. 🙂
nders
oh right. guess i'll have to visit the pro900 shop tonight then 🙂 no more juice for amp atm.
Thanks alot mike, your site and replies are a great inspiration and information resource 😀
Mike
Glad I can help out, nders. 🙂 Hopefully you strike a match with the Pro900.
Angela Bonifield
Wonderful web page. Great on the internet affiliate program. Thank you.
KK
Well, I said I'd sell it…but I didn't. The other day I went for an audio show featuring the HD600 and HD800 with their house amp. Either this is the Sennheiser "sound" or the headphones aren't broken in…I was surprised by how I disliked the Sennheisers, even the HD800. There's little clarity – a warmish kind of sound. Just like how I wasn't impressed by the HD650 at a meet. They sound like hi-fi no doubt, but their balance doesn't compare as well as the Superlux.
At this price, this is a no-brainer. People are preferring it above the K701. The more I listen to it the more it sounds like I'm listening to the music and not to a headphone.
Mike
Interesting insight. Thanks, KK. 🙂
KK
Just like to add that all dynamic headphones tend to compress sound a little. There are people who say that a high ohm dynamic headphones tend to compress dynamics a little too much, you need to get the most out it from a high end amp. The Superlux doesn't fall into that category.
Planar magnetics maybe not so much. Audez'e LCD-2 may my next (and last) ticket. 🙂
harirahardjo
Nice review, mike. Can i get the address for the distributor/retailer in indonesia?
Mike
Try hanhan at 0856 2482 8496 or kantongkresek at 08151077018
harirahardjo
Thank you 🙂
George Vichev
Nice review, I might consider these as my next headphones. Thanks.
Mike
Thanks, George.
Though I didn't write this review (Dhani did), I agree that the HD668B is very good for the price it's selling for. I do think that the tonal balance lacks midrange body for music listening, and is more tuned for monitoring purposes.
50an6xy06r6n
So any thoughts on the HD681's in comparison? They're available on Amazon for ~$35… http://www.amazon.com/Superlux-681-Dynamic-Semi-O…
also, where can you get the 668B's in the US?
Mike
Interesting. I haven't had the chance to listen to the 681s. I'll try to find them and perhaps write an impression.
As for the 668Bs, try to talk to Ray at Superlux.us: http://www.superlux.us/
geoff
where exactly would I be able to get these in new york? All I can find online are the 681s…
Mike
Unfortunately, it's been really hard to find the HD668B in the US. You can try to contact this guy, but I don't know if he can get them for you: http://superlux.us
Bryan Moog-Phitts
I am in the Hudson Valley, also in NY, and would appreciate some places to buy.
🙂
~Bryan M.
Mike
It's been pretty difficult to get them in the US, Bryan, unfortunately.
Dan
How's the leakage on these ? I'm looking for a work pair and was all hyped up their analytical clarity before reading the semi-open part. Also can you comment on the 661(red) and 662F in comparison if you have them for reference?
Dan
I meant 681(red)
Mike
Let me check on the leakage and get back to you, Dan.
Anonymous
Dan,
The leakage is very low. I mean, it does leak sound, but if I listen at moderate to low volume, I can be using them in a quiet office and nobody would be bothered by it.
Dan
guy behind me at work is wearing Senn HD555 and I never hear him. We’re probably talking along the sames lines then I guess. Also from looking at these are they fairly large?
Anonymous
Yes, should be similar to the HD555s. The HD668Bs are a bit larger
though, very close to the size of AKG K240s.
Kevin Lake
Hi Everybody,
I am the tech support manager for Avlex Corp. We are the United States distributor for Superlux. I would like to thank everyone for the kind words about the HD668B headphones. I have received numerous requests for these and I thought I’d post here since this seems to be the source of much of the buzz on these cans.
Unfortunately, due to a major price increase from the factory, we have no plans to bring in any more of these headphones. Things may change, but at this time we are out and I have no dealers left in the US that seem to have any. I was informed that a Canadian company, Paw music, is selling these on line. I called them and they have a small shipment due in February, 2011 but most of that order has already been spoken for.
It may be worthwhile to get on their back-order list if you are serious about getting these headphones.
Thanks,
Kevin Lake
Avlex Corp.
[email protected]
Anonymous
Thanks for the post and the info, Kevin.
GFMS
Hi Mike, that was then but things changed and these are in the US again, have been for a while.
Volumus Maximus
I bought these yesterday from supermusic57 on ebay.. based in UK.. $74 includes shipping..
Anonymous
That’s quite expensive. I guess prices have gone up, and perhaps they’re
more expensive in the UK as well.
Yoga
is it right that it takes time for this headphone to reach the highest peformance????
i’ve just bought this headphone, and i’ve kind dissappointed in the first..it feel so flat..and its gets better when you listen in 2 hours..
Anonymous
Too high of an expectation perhaps?
aXm
Hi, I got mine from the same eBay seller as mentioned, a few months after this review was posted; purely on the strength of this review (Mike sounds like he’s a fully-fledged audiophile, so must know what he’s talking about)! I bought them for £35 with free shipping. The price hasn’t changed either, so what a great deal!
Yoga
and now this headphone produce sound just like what its hype about..i don’t know why, but maybe i will leave my hp on with the music till morning..hopes it will gets a better peformance..time to sleep..sbelum plng ke desa..
Donunus
Hi Mike, Just starting with the bass how does it fare against the sennheiser hd558. I just want a basis of comparison that I am using with me here
Anonymous
Briefly, the two headphones are like comparing a Beyer DT880 to the Senn
HD650. If you’ve heard both, then you know what I’m talking about. The
Senn would have a looser, smoother, fuller bass. Where the Superlux has
a dryier, more articulate bass. You’ll also find the Superlux slightly
thin in the mids, where the Senn is very full on that region. Likewise
the treble stands out more in the Superlux, where the Senn is more relaxed.
Donunus
hmm i might not like these so much but if i find them at a low price i might not be able to resist just to try out what all the fuss is about hehehe. I might sneak in one of those yellow 651 basshead cans. Where did you get those? email me some sources please LOL
Anonymous
Have you checked on the HD651 article? I think someone posted about
getting it in Hong Kong.
Donunus
yup, i saw that. I replied to that thread hoping someone would post a link or something 🙂
Anonymous
Donunus, are you in the US? If yes, then you can try this seller at
ebay, though they don’t list the HD668B:
http://bit.ly/hQrTmb
Donunus
We’re neighbors bro 🙂 I am at the Philippines. Its $18 shipping for that one to me. That model might be too peaky sounding for me in the highs too. I’m not much into a grado type signature when we are talking about frequencies above the midrange but am open minded with bright headphones as long as the highs are balanced with no peaks. Basically a lean overall sound is fine with me which is why i am willing to try the 668b. I was fine with the k701s bass for example but the peakiness in parts of the upper mids and lower highs bothered me
Anonymous
True.. it seems it’s getting harder to find the HD668B!
Anonymous
BTW, I am writing about another cheap but good headphone. It’s the
Sennheiser HD202. Wait for that one before you pull the plug on the HD668B.
Psilo
Hi guys, I heard the Samson SR850’s have the same, or similar drivers to the HD668b’s. Is that true? They definitely look like Superluxes, and there’s talk that they’re rebranded ‘Luxes? Anyone have experience?
Anonymous
That definitely looks like a 668B. I wouldn’t be surprised if it sounds the same with the HD668B (or more or less similar). I don’t think Samson as a company manufactures their own headphone line up, so Superlux probably OEMs for them.
Anonymous
Will look into the Samson, but I have had no experience with them.
Psilo
That would be awesome if you could do a comparison!
Anonymous
Yes, Psilo. I will look into it, but please the Samson has an extremely limted presence here, so it won’t be easy to get a unit.
Anonymous
Will look into the Samson, but I have had no experience with them.
jrko
Just sold my HD650’s because of these. I feel they present a much more ‘complete’ picture of the music being played. Bass is as weighty as the Sennheisers but mid/high is more direct which is to my liking.
A genuine giant killer
Donunus
Bass is as weighty as hd650s? wow
Alex_wu_1993
sorry guys if this is already posted, but apparently Samson SR850 uses the same driver as 668B, and is available on Amazon
Anonymous
Nice, Alex.
It does look very similar to the Superlux.
prast
hallo mike, curiously how it compare with HD330, another open series from superlux, actually the sound stage reproduction.
Anonymous
I have listened to the HD330 only briefly. I think it’s a good
headphone, but I’d either go to the direction of the HD440 for mids, or
the HD668B for a monitoring stance. The HD330 was sort of in-between,
with a slightly aggressive (ala Grado) upper mids and treble.
Wondering
Ordered the Samson yesterday on Amazon for $37 shipped. Today, that supplier no longer has them, but a different supplier has them for $59. A $22 price bump in one day. Thanks for the tip Alex Wu. I have a new M50 burning in, looking to compare.
Anonymous
Interesting. Would love to hear the impressions.
Zenmidy
Can you compare the 668B to Sony V6 or 7506?
Anonymous
Briefly,
The 668B is brighter, more clarity, more detail, more articulate bass than both Sonys.
Zenmidy
So which one do you think is better ?
Anonymous
I havent spend too much time with those Sonys so I should probably hold my comments this time. 🙂
Oliver Jeffrey Moore
are these the entertainment or pro monitoring headphones?
Anonymous
From the way they sound, Pro Monitoring.
K Lamba
By any chance have you compared them to ATH AD700? Particularly in terms of sound clarity and soundstage.
Anonymous
I am writing an AD300-700-900-1000-2000 article at the moment.
I think the HD668B has a better clarity and soundstage accuracy. Bass impact is also better on the HD668B.
However the AD700 is great with its open and spacious sound. The HD668B feels noticeably more closed than the AD-series.
mathu
I’ve been using SL668B with my Cowon J3 and thought they were great but a little too bright and too claustrophobic. But today I’ve connected them to my Lovely Cube and the result is simply astonishing, the soundstage improved dramatically and bass kicked in. This is the level of SQ I had when paired HD650 with Audinst MX1 (although HD650 with LC are still better in terms of realism and soundstage).
I would say that pairing the 668B with iPod or similar device will give you only 50% of their potential. The difference on a good amp is dramatic.
Anonymous
Yes it should improve very well on a good amp.
Thanks for sharing. Im interested in checking out the lovely cube.
mathu
Can you tell me which Fiio would be better to drive Superluxes from my DAP? E7 or E11? E11 is far more powerful but what about the sound signature?
Anonymous
I think the E11 with the fuller mids and bottom end would be a better pairing for the HD668B.
Bert
hi mathu, hope you don’t mind if i continue asking Mike a question related to this topic. apologies for the thread-jack.
hi Mike, to add on to mathu’s question, i would like to ask if the E11 or the JDSLabs CMOY amp would better suit the 668B for a portable amp? i’m currently running it without an amp from an iPod classic. understand that you have an “under $100 portable amp shootout” post in the works. =)
cheers,
Bert
Anonymous
I think the JDSLabs would be the better amp than the E11. Reason I recommended the E11 to mathu is that he was considering the E7 or the E11.
Anonymous
I just bought these cans online (In the US) yesterday, and I hope to receive them on Monday. I found them at greenflymusicsupply.com – where they had just been restocked (price = 39.99 USD).
I’ll post an update here when they arrive, and let you all know if it went smoothly (as I had never heard of the retailer before this), and my first impressions of the cans as well.
Anonymous
Thanks!
Anonymous
My pleasure – its the least I could do – your review helped me make the decision. I’ll do a full video unboxing (my first) and I’ll keep you guys updated.
For more info – here is the direct link where I made the purchase: http://www.greenflymusicsupply.com/store/Superlux-by-Avlex-HD668B-Enhanced-Bass-Stereo-Headphones-p4076.html
(PS im not related to these guys at all just trying to help some headfoners find what they want!)
Anonymous
Thanks, and also for the vodeo review!
LzaH
Hey, how do these compare to the Sennheiser HD555s?
Anonymous
Briefly,
HD668B: more detail, brighter, more articulate, overall better for
monitoring.
HD555: warmer, thicker mids, slower pace, clearly the tuning is for
music listening.
LzaH
Okay, thanks for the help!
Endrizo
well I have a pair of HD 681 and a pair of HD 681 B (the red ones have more bass) they are really good.
Anonymous
Yes they are. I also have them. 🙂
Endrizo
now Superlux should make active studio monitor speakers to kill KRK ,M audio,Alesis and the likes.
tenimyuu
i’m currently debating between buying a pair of HD 681 or K 240
which one would you recommend?
Anonymous
Briefly the Superlux will be brighter, faster paced and more detailed. The AKG K240 will be warmer and thicker sounding.
Syakir Zainol
Hi Mike,
Maybe I’m asking an unfair question, but Im buying this to use in my office and I would like to say how different this is to ny Shure SRH840?
Thanks!
Anonymous
Syakir,
Briefly:
HD668: Less comfortable, brighter (may sound more detailed), dryer,
thinner mids, better bass articulation.
SRH-840: More linear, fuller mids, smoother, less bright but treble
extension is better. Looser bass.
pp
i’m planning to get these headphones but i’m a bit afraid after the Porta Pro’s colored sound i might find these a little flat.. *i love the PP’s, but they are extremely fragile and doesn’t last long. 🙁 can somebody tell me how these would sound compared to the PP’s?
Anonymous
The are not going to sound flat due to the detail level, but you may find them a bit bright and lacking midrange body compared to the PortaPros. The resolution, detail, soundstage, etc will be a big step up from the Portapros though. Another thing to keep in mind is that the HD668 is a full size with a stronger clamping force than the Portapro.
I don’t guarantee that you will be 100% happy with them, but it wouldn’t hurt to give it a try since they are relatively inexpensive.
Idida
Hello Mike,
I’ve read both of your articles on the 668B and the 660. In short, which one would you prefer between these 2? How is the sound leak on the 668B since it is semi-opened?
Anonymous
I do prefer the HD660. It’s much more musically engaging.
Idida
Sorry mike, since i am noob, how do u explain “musically engaging”? Can u please explain to me in terms of the bass, mids & treble?
Mushis
been reading alot about the Superlux’es, so nice to find these comments here!
maybe some of you may help me. im just a music listener, which ones would you recommend?
i won’t be using an amp, ill use them at home for music/movies/games.
Superflux HD660, HD668, HD681 ?…the B version or regular one?
or other, like Samson?…
thx for the help,
Mushis
i forgot to say, i own the koss porta pro, and I LOVE the sound!
Anonymous
Hi Mushis,
I think at the moment the HD660 earns my strongest recommendation for music. Here is the review of them: http://www.headfonia.com/the-new-superluxes-are-good-the-hd330-hd440-and-the-hd660/
Hampuras
Hi Mike,
I just bought the Samson SR850 which is the clone of HD668B. Do you think the Soundmagic A1o will provide a good synergy to this headphone? Or will any in the list of your portable amps shoot out except for the JDSLabs (i already have this, adding a new one)?
Thanks
Hampuras
Hi Mike,
I just bought the Samson SR850 which is the clone of HD668B. Do you think the Soundmagic A1o will provide a good synergy to this headphone? Or will any in the list of your portable amps shoot out except for the JDSLabs (i already have this, adding a new one)?
Thanks
Anonymous
I think the Fiio E11 is better. The Soundmagic has that volume control issues — I wrote about it in this article:
http://www.headfonia.com/music-on-a-budget-sub-100-portable-amps-shootout/
Hampuras
Interesting. Assuming that without the volume control issue, which one have the sound signature that can complement the headphone?
Anonymous
The A-10 and the E-11 are roughly similar, but the A-10 would be a better fit. It’s smoother and has a fuller midrange.
Hampuras
That is what i thought. Based on your detailed review that is. Thank you for your hard work!
Anonymous
Thanks, Hampuras.
gr8fr8
Based on mathu’s comments, what is a good priced and performance amp that you would recommend to be paired with 668B?
gr8fr8
On added note, when I say good priced and good performance, I meant something like this $30 dollars monster :P.
Anonymous
Sorry, where is mathu’s comments again?
gr8fr8
Nevermind regarding the Mathu’s comments. I am planning to get one of those FiiO amps. Is it a good choice, to be paired with 668B?
Anonymous
Yes, the E11 should be good.
MatusP
In case mathu doesn’t come here again, let me tell you that in his name (we are collegues from a forum) – HD668B and the E11 are a stunnigly good combination. Not only is the sound as detailed as with a hi-end desktop amp, but also the power of bass becomes sufficient even for metal.
MatusP
I’ve got a question, especially to you, Mike. How would these play paired with Yulong U100? I know its amp is not very bassy, and neither are the HD668, but I’m planning to use them mostly for classical music and some jazz abums, so I don’t mind that so much.
Anonymous
Too bright, too sharp, even for Jazz.
Though it depends on the Jazz recordings that you listen to though. If you listen to audiophile Jazz recordings then the U100 + 668B combo would be fine. But if you listen to the older Jazz recordings, Miles Davis, Coltrane, etc then I wouldn’t recommend it. For that I’d probably recommend the Schiit Asgard for $250. No DAC though.
MatusP
I already have the U100 and I’m really happy with it. For 50-60s jazz I use Creative Aurvana Live! (sound a bit like Denon D2000, in case you don’t know them). I’m going to use Superlux with piano, organ and string music, and some of the really well recorded jazz albums.
I’ll give them a try anyway 🙂
MatusP
And so I did.
I bet you haven’t tried listening to them together, have you? Well then, let me share my experience with the combo. As far as I’m concerned, it’s just perfect for any kind of instrumental music, no matter the period – even “Kind of Blue” sounds beautiful. The vocals are not bad either, but the sibilants happen to be quite painful (the headphones are not yet burnt in, though). I don’t find them any bright or sharp – the amount of bass is satisfactory and the sound is very detailed but by no means tiring or unplesant.
Hengky Henkq HenkQlagi
muantabszz…///
Andy
How is this pair of cans comparable to the Superlux 661?
Points like comfort and sound quality.
Anonymous
Comfort is better on the 661. Sound quality, the 661 is better suited for music, where the 668B has a dryer but more articulate sound that would be better for monitoring. The 661 is a little warmer on the mids and bass, and has a fuller mid section. The treble is similar in tone to the 668B, but less dry.
DodgersKings323
WOW! How is the Isolation? I may just ditch the idea of upgrading my IEM for portability. I have the Fostex T50 and Beyer DT235 in my “check out later for kicks” pile, but these are cheaper than both of um i may just have to add them to my cart.
Anonymous
Isolation is good, fairly good clamping force, but the circumaural pads design can let sound slip in a little. It does tend to get bright after a while and you would notice that the mids are not as full as you would like them to be for music.
Anonymous
Isolation is good, fairly good clamping force, but the circumaural pads design can let sound slip in a little. It does tend to get bright after a while and you would notice that the mids are not as full as you would like them to be for music.
Sean Bunting
Hello! I just got these headphones and the e11.
I have been searching Google for the past few days and I can’t find a good short cable to get from my mp3 player to the amp. What do you use?
Thanks!
Anonymous
Hi Sean,
Don’t you get one of those mini-to-mini cable with the E11 purchase? Otherwise you can get one separately at an extra cost, or email Fiio and ask them to send you a cable.
http://amzn.to/nZtYaU
Gil
Mike, which is better 668B or the 660
I mostly listen to EDM, Metal, BLues and live concert.
nessuno1234
same question. i’m not interesting if is close or open.
i want the best sound.
Anonymous
The technicalities is roughly the same (though I think the HD660 has a better soundstage image, better depth), the voicing of the HD660 is just more appropriate for music listening especially Blues, Live Concert, Rock, maybe Metal too. What’s EDM?
Gil
Electronic dance music
Anonymous
Okay the Superluxes are probably not the best for EDM. AIAIAI’s TMA-1 is much better for that.
http://www.headfonia.com/aiaiai-tma-1/
Gil
thanks..so HD660 more suitable for rock music (soundstage image, better depth)
hw about the new HD661?
Anonymous
The HD661 is a good all-rounder headphone with minimal coloration yet still engaging and relatively fun. On a whole it’s a less technical headphone than the HD660 though. It’s also smaller (Sony MDR 7506 size).
Armand Guive
hi !
I bought them for playing games, watching films and listening to music. I found that they have realy not enough mediums (500 – 1.5KHz) and i can t use them at all because of this. The high frequency are also way too high and the very low frequency are not high enough (20-60Hz).
Here is the frequency shems that comfirm my tought http://www.superlux.com.tw/upload/function.product.info/17f81435-74a5-48b2-af35-202a1d1730b2/resource/br_HD668B_view_en.pdf
:/
Anonymous
Yes, that is indeed the character of the HD668B.
Jun
Hey Mike,
I am planning to get a Fiio E10 and this headphone. Do you think that is a good combination?
Anonymous
Hi Jun,
Yes it should be good.
cam
Hey there, I have been recommended these for gaming (big soundstage?) what are your thoughts? and is there any other cheap competitors that might be better?
Cheers
Anonymous
Try the AD-series headphones.
http://www.headfonia.com/audio-technica-ad-series-ad300-ad700-ad900-ad1000prm-ad2000/
The AD300, AD700 should be under $100 and has a very big open sound.
Anonymous
Try the AD-series headphones.
http://www.headfonia.com/audio-technica-ad-series-ad300-ad700-ad900-ad1000prm-ad2000/
The AD300, AD700 should be under $100 and has a very big open sound.
cam
Hey there, I have been recommended these for gaming (big soundstage?) what are your thoughts? and is there any other cheap competitors that might be better?
Cheers
susta
which superlux(or Samson) headphone has the best high/treble response.
And is it possible to use that headphone with cowon j3. Is the amp needed?
i mostly listen post rock/metal, and classical.
Anonymous
If only treble response, try the HD668B.
susta
what about on other areas? soundstage, clarity, detail, comfort…
hd668b or hd660 which one is the best for rock and classical(mostly symphonies, orchestral stuffs)? Are there any good cheap headphones for these genres?
Can i use these headphones with unamped sansa clip or cowon j3?
Bass response is not so important for me, im not a bass-head. So, will hd668 B have too much bass for me?
Anonymous
Hi Susta,
I think the HD660 is better for those purposes, and it’s also one of the best cheap headphones for those genres. Keep in mind it’s not going to be a perfect headphone though, they are budget headphones after all.
As for the amping requirement, yes an amplifier would be recommended. Please check #5 on the FAQ: http://www.headfonia.com/faq/
Felicia Christie
I was wondering, does the sound leak out? Since I walk around with headphones on a lot, and I really don’t want to disturb anyone with all the Japanese gibberish (to them) leaking out.
I sometimes listen to electronic-dance-music too, so how good is this with that type of song? Since I saw below you mentioned AIAIAI TMA-1 is better, but that one is out of my budget.
Thanks in advance.
Mike
Felicia,
The sound will definitely leak out, and though the HD668B is very good, it is definitely not recommended for electronic-dance. Not to mention that the size is very big and will make a bad portable.
How about these:
http://www.headfonia.com/audio-technicas-entry-level-trio-sj11-sj33-and-sj55/ http://www.headfonia.com/the-marshall-headphones-major-and-minor/
Liam
Why would you say that they are not recommended to listening to “electronic-dance”? Just wondering.
Mike
Liam,
Electronic and Dance (especially dance) tend to be very treble happy. The HD668B likewise has a lot of treble. It’s not going to be nice combining the two.
Jared
They are actually really good cans for all sorts of electronic and dance music
Mike
Okay that’s good to hear.
Dennis Mak
Hey Mike, I am recently looking to buy a portable/semi portable headphone for daily commute. Is there any out there that you recommended? I checked out SJ55 and Marshall Major. Sj55 seems like an interesting choice, but where should I buy it from besides ebay?
At the same time, I use the Ultimate Ears TF10 (IEM) everyday during commute. I am hoping to buy a pair headphone that sound better than that(or I am just looking for a different sound). I don’t really like the sharp treble on the TF10, since I listen to a lot of Cantonese music (jazz,blue,pop).
Can you please give me a few recommendations please?
I have the HD668b, that is why I am putting my comment on here. This pair is really awesome for its price. <– You article got me pulled the trigger
JERRY ALVAREZ
Hi. Do you find the Supelux HD668b to be much more sibilant(sharp treble) compared to your TF10? Does the HD668B sound quality comparable to UE TF10?
josef
I want to buy those pairs but I dont know how they sound, im hearing to dubstep music , house , are they good for these art of music?
P.S. Srry for my english
Mike
Josef,
Not recommended for Dubstep.
What’s your budget? Try the AKG K518LE.
josef
The headphones should be under 40€.
And what do you think about the HD 440 ? Do they really have a great bass?
Mike
I think the K518LE may be around €40-€50.
Mike Lee
Hi there. If I normally listen to a mixture of classical – concerto/symphony, Instrumental, movies soundtracks, pop and vocal.
Between this, Goldring DR150 and Audio Technica M50,
which headphone are a better choice ? Thanks.
Mike
That’s a tough choice, Mike. But I’m leaning toward the M-50 the most.
Austin Harp
can someone put a link to where i can buy the superlux 668b headphones?
Yap Tien En
Hi! Austin, you can get it from ebay.
heavy
Are these suitable for electronic music production? How do they cope up with mixing and mastering tasks?
Mike
I don’t personally do music production, but I believe they were designed for studio monitoring uses.
Ku Mohd Syafiq
Which one would do well in female vocal songs? ATH AD700 or HD668B?
Mike
AD900
Sae Jin Choi
Hi, all
Which headphone do you think is good at performing better and wider space perception: Superlux 668B or AKG K81 Dj?
I’m gonna play an opera or performance for monitoring opera, drama, performance.. anything that has wide performing space.
Mike
668B is going to be better for what you’re using.
Prakhyat Goel
Hi All,
Is Superlux 668B good when paired with a PA2V2 amplifier? Also how is HD 668B compared to HD 681B and Samson R850. Any other headphones in the similar price range
I listen to lots of different genres – from Rock Music to Blues and Jazz and being from India, lots of local music as well. This is going to be my foray into audiophile industry, so all help would be appreciated.
Regards
PG
Mike
PG,
The 668B would be better paired with a CmoyBB as it would add warmth and mid body for music listening. Actually I’d recommend the HD660 or the HD661 now for music listening, better than the HD668B.
Sorry no experience with the Samson and the HD681B.
Prakhyat Goel
Hey Mike,
Thanks for the reply. What amplifier will be suitable to pair with HD 660 or HD 661? I would be driving them primarily with an Ipod Nano, S2. Also if I wish to use CMOYBB with a laptop is it possible? And are both these good for watching movie as well?
Mike
Prakhyat,
The CmoyBB should be good with the 660 and 661 as well. You can also use it with your laptop, but it doesn’t come with a DAC. Yes movies too.
Prakhyat Goel
Mike,
Thanks for the response. I am planning to buy HD 660. The only thing I want to make sure off is that how comfortable they are, since they are closed headphones? At a stretch, how many hours can you listen to music while having them on.
Mike
They are quite comfortable actually. Decent clamp force, not too much, pads uses cheap leatherette but it’s quite okay.
micuentayoutube lol
Hello. I have been suggested these headphones in a forum. I like several kinds of music, from classical to rock and metal. I like a lot the sound of the bass (the instrument, the bass guitar) and I would like some headphones that allow me to follow that instrument in a song. Take for example this three songs:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NCpSKrpAdOs and
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CS5sNPTPL6g and http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wZuoMR-rXOg (i know they’re just youtube videos, but I do have the original CDs, so a good source is granted). Although kind of simple, I love the bass lines in them, so I would like some headphones that let me keep track of them. Do you think these headphones should do the trick? Thanks in advance for your time and your answers. Cheers!
Mike
I listened to the first track, I think the HD668 would give enough separation for the bass tracks there.
Hifihedgehog360
I have to give you a hand for writing this informative review and, in effect, encouraging me to make the plunge to buy these headphones–I simply cannot get these off my head! For those who may have their doubts, I assure you these strike a perfect chord between neutrality and fun factor, and are cheap to boot. These made me not give up on the hobby of audiophilia, dethroning my 3 year-old ATH-m50s and canning old Saint Nick’s plans of giving me a Beyerdynamic DT 880. As a longtime headphone user, I have the listened extensively to the Teutonic triple, the Grado line sans the PS1000 and almost every headphone in between. The Superlux HD668b are by far the most entertaining of any of them, diving deep into the mix while keeping it juicy and interesting at the same time and are certainly the best value for the money for cans. Mike, thank you again for ultimately having a hand in me making this purchase!
Kevinjit
how does Superlux HD668B compare to Goldring DR150 in detail? Also wut is the better headphone in your opinion, and by how big of a margin? Im currently confuse in getting either one of these two even after auditioned them both 🙁
Kevinjit
also can u categorize it as HiFi:, Rockin’, Monitoring, Basshead, or Open Sound ?
Mike
The HD668B is Monitoring
The Goldring is HiFi
Depends on what you are looking and what music, I can’t say that one is better than the other.
Kevinjit
the best IEM i tried and liked so far is sony ex1000, that would be my reference if im going to make the jump from earphones to headphone 🙂
any headphones u can recommend me that use ex1000 as reference? recommend apart from dr150 or superlux also is fine by me 🙂
Kevinjit
also, ex1000 shud be HiFi right, not Rockin’ ? correct me if im wrong
Mike
Yes, EX1000 should be Hifi.
If you like the EX1000, gosh can you afford something fancier than the Superlux? Something like the Z1000 would be the right headphone.
Kevinjit
I cant really afford EX1000, but its more like ive “poisoned” by it, so kindda looking at cheaper option that at least closer to ex1000 🙂
Mike
Well that’s a bit difficult.. a sub $100 headphone that sounds like the EX1000 if you know what I mean.
Papoom Vibhatasilpin
Hi, Which is better 668B + E10 vs MS1i + E10?
Papoom Vibhatasilpin
Hi Mike
Which is better 668B + E10 vs Ms1i + E10 for pop, rock and metal?
Mike
For Pop and Rock the MS1i is better. Metal, I’m not so sure.
Papoom Vibhatasilpin
Thanks.
Mike
No probs and you’re welcome. 🙂
Calvin Purnomo
Hi Mike, got a question here.
I already have Beyer DT880 pro here, and loving it! But I’m still looking for secondary phones that have good technicality and good for analytical listening, such as AKG K701. Will this superlux suit me? Thanks mate! 😀
Mike
The Superlux would definitely fit for that yes!
Calvin Purnomo
What about the newer Superluxes? Such as the HD660 or HD662, which one of those newer ones that have the same-ish trait with the 668B?
Mike
No the signature is quite different. The 662 is closer to the 668B.
I did a review on the 660, please do a search under the tag superlux:
http://www.headfonia.com/tag/superlux/
Calvin Purnomo
Then 668 it is! Thanks for the advice mike! 🙂
Mike
Alright you’re welcome!
Samcez
Whats better Superlux HD-668B or Superlux HD-330 or Superlux HD-660 or if you want you can recommend for me some headphones to 50€. I want them for listening music in high quality not in studio but i want really really good headphones for that money. Thanks
Mike
The 668B is open back. The 660 and the 330 are both great but I happen to prefer the 660.
Wait, I think the 330 is semi open.
GFMS
The post by Kevin Lake below is old news. The HD668B is still a great seller. The best we have ever seen.
Andrew
Hello,
Would these be the best superlux headphones out for classical? I listen more or less exclusively to classical
music (chamber music and solo piano, as well as orchestral), and I’m
feeling a little stuck for choice as to which superlux headphones to go for. Any help would be much appreciated!
Mike
The full size Superluxes are more or less equally great for classical. I like the closed back better as they have a more powerful bass impact but you’ll have to bear with the closed housing reverb. The HD668B doesn’t have the housing reverb problem but the bass is more flat.
I need bass for symphonies and pianos.
Chas Lauren
Superlux HD-660 for classical or better get the ATH-M50s by Audio Technica
Jerry lui
Would this be better than the AKG K240 Mk.II? I’ve finally narrowed my choices down to these two (HD668B & AKG K240 Mk.II) but I’m not sure which one to pick. The 668 is basically have the price of the K240 but the K240 comes with a velour pad/extra cables… so I guess I’m really just paying for the accessories.
Which one would you recommend for someone who listens to rock, electric, techno, etc.?
Guest
“Have” Blah, I meant half. D:
Mike
The AKG is warmer and should play better with your music.
Pedro
Hi Mike,
How deep does the sub bass go? is there any sub bass at all?
Goldenears.com graphs are wildly different from those of Headphone.com & I’m really confused about HD668B bass & sub bass response.
Thanks in advance
Mike
The bass extension is there, but it’s just not very evident on the ears.
Another way of saying the sub bass is thin/weak, but it’s not cut off.
Joanna
Hi Mike, Is it possible to cooperation with you?
we are microphone manufacturer in China, specialize in this field for 18 years,with strength of competitive price and best quality.
Please give me a reply.
Thanks and Best Regards,
Joanna
our website: http://www.wiremicrophone.com/
L.
We do headphones not microphones, sorry
Syed Hakimiey
Looking for budget phone too, how this compared to Sennheiser HD 202 II, in term of SQ?
Thach M Truong
Hi Mike! Thank you for this awesome review. I just bought it last week and it’s amazing. I just want to ask you which AMP will suit this headphones well. I’m considering between the CMoyBB and the Fiio E11. I listen to almost all kinds of music especially EDM, Pop and Instrumental. And i also find the HD668B lacks a little bit of bass to me. Thanks in advance
dalethorn
So which of the 2 amps has the best bass boost for the 668? I don’t think the simple one or two-position bass boost controls have enough flexibility to be satisfactory for a wide range of music. The FiiO E07k has a digital boost that goes 1 to 10, which is more flexible, unless you need one of the other two amps for some reason.
Thach M Truong
Yeah I really love their design and also my budget is small. I do have a wide range taste of music but I mostly use headphones to listen to Instrumental like Yanni or Kenny G and EDM so I kinda want a little bass boost, not too much though. I’m sorry but I’m still new to this kind of thing.
Syed Hakimiey
Looking for budget phone too, how this compared to Sennheiser HD 202 II, Panasonic HTX7 in term of SQ?
Syed Hakimiey
Hey, Mike.
Looking for budget phone, how this compared to Sennheiser HD 202 II, in term of SQ?
George
I’ve decided… Was looking at the AKG 240 and Superlux HD 688D and getting the Superlux. No doubt in my mind that the review has convinced me that “bargain prices” doesn’t necessarily mean “sub-par quality or bad sound performance”. I see that the review is 6 years ago and having read more recent reviews have confirmed that the quality and sound are still there. Thanks so much for helping me choose …..
Vitor
How does this headphone behave when compared to Superlux HD681? I need a headphone for musics (eletronic and rock mostly) and games (GTA 5 and CS:GO, both need good soundstage) but I don’t know which one I should pick, could you help me?
dale thorn
The review you’re reading is more than six years old, so here is more information on those 2 headphones from Innerfidelity. By the way, the Brainwavz HM5 that I had was close to neutral – excellent I thought.
http://www.innerfidelity.com/content/superlux-hd-668b-and-hd-681-headphones#fd7pdKRkCFbYQTok.97
Lord Sinister
Hello all,
I know this post is a bit aged but I’vee been on an IEM adventure for the past 6 years and hoping those with a collection and/or experience could help.
What IEM do you own or have experienced that can match the low, mid and high regions of the HD668B with regards to quantity and quality (no price limit but under 1K would be nice)? The only IEM I have that comes close is the FLC 8 (not 8S) but it lacks the bass quantity and impact but sub bass which is really nice. I have the LZ A4 and Trinity Audio PM6 coming soon but not sure if they can satisfy my need and just feels like I’m wasting hard earned money. I already have the Trinity Audio PM4 + Delta I and II, FLC 8, T-peos Altone 2, Dunnu Titan 1 and DN-1000, and while they are good at certain things they don’t meeting the overall level of the simple and cheap HD668B. I have a bunch of others under $150 but they are basically collecting dust in the closet. I desperately want to stop spending so much money trying to find an IEM that will surpass the HD668B but feels like I’m just wasting time (and lots of money). Wonder if I should try a CIEM but which……………arrrrrrrr. Anyone try this headphone and know of any IEM/CIEM that I should consider and why? Maybe it’s the source as I’m only using Sound Blaster X-Fi Gamer, an iPhone 6s and Samsung Galaxy S7. Keep hesitating on the FiiO E17K Alpen 2 as well as FiiO x7 but…………
Thanks for you time and I do really appreciate any suggestions.
io games
Styled like an Audio Technica-AKG hybrid, the HD668B is very well-made.
ovo game
The HD668 reproduces the authentic sensation of a very deep, natural sound with a real and dynamic tone. The Superlux 668 emphasizes the highs heavily to provide an extremely precise and dazzling sound.