On this page, you’ll find our Headphone Recommendations and all of our Best Headphone Buys of the moment. Looking for the best Headphones on the market? This ever-evolving list is your answer and the item are ranked by increasing price. You can find all of our Best Gear and Recommended Buys here.
Beyerdynamic DT770
This Beyerdynamic was loved right from the beginning here on Headfonia. Mike and I did a double review and we ended up recommending a lot of these DT770’s to our readers. The headphone turned out to be so successful that Beyerdynamic continued making them under the 32Ohm label and it’s still selling strong. For little money, you get an excellent closed headphone (I recommend the velour pads) with a more V-Shaped sound signature. You get excellent detail and lovely bass, and when hooking it up to a tube amp, the DT700 transforms into a very addictive headphone. While no amplifiers are needed to drive this headphone, you will notice how remarkably better it sounds when amped. If you’re in need of something good and closed, this should be on your list.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/the-beyerdynamic-we-love-dt770-anniversary-edition/
FiiO FT1 Pro [Added 08/03/2025]
To put it in a nutshell, the FiiO FT1 Pro is a true bang for your buck: an over-ear headphone standing out as one of the best options in its category. For less than $200, it’s one of their most versatile option, combining exceptional value, great comfort, premium material and an expansive bundle – thanks to the addition of a second, balanced cable
Sound wise, I consider this headphone one, if not the best sounding open-back model available on the market right now, up to $500. A sort of shoe-horned HW600 for those that can’t bear the $800 difference.
So yeah, if you’re in the market for an entry-level, but exceptional headphone that isn’t a Bluetooth one, the FiiO FT1 Pro is without a doubt, the best option at the moment.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/fiio-ft1-pro-review/
Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro x [Added 24/04/2022]
The Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X is a masterpiece: for €249 you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything better, or as accurate.
It’s built like a tank, amazingly comfy, magically linear, sounds like a 4 digit headphones, and will completely cut you from the outside world. In fact, for this price, it’s basically a steal and if I could write long, convoluted sentences about how magical it is, I’ll just ask you to get off your desk and go listen to it at your closest audio shop. Now!
A must-have!
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/beyerdynamic-dt-700-pro-x-review/
Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro x [Added 01/05/2022]
The Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X is a work of art, and a true bargain: for €249 you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything better, or as accurate. Like the DT 700 Pro X, it ticks all the right boxes and redefines my vision of sub €300 headphones. The only flaw I can find with it is its main quality: open-back design. But otherwise, it’s superb!
It’s built like a tank, amazingly comfy, magically linear, sounds like a 4-digit headphones, and cut sounds like a champ. In fact, for this price, it’s basically a steal and if I could write long, convoluted sentences about how magical it is, I’ll just ask you to get off your desk and go listen to it at your closest audio shop. Now!
A must-have, once more! To the Recommended Buy list it goes!
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/beyerdynamic-dt-900-pro-x-review/
Moondrop Para [Added 08/01/2024]
In summary, the Moondrop PARA is an excellent addition to the planar magnetic headphone market, particularly at its $299 price point. It offers a balanced and neutral sound profile that impresses with its natural and easy-to-listen nature. The PARA’s build quality, comfort, and aesthetic appeal further enhance its value, making it a strong contender against more expensive models.
For audiophiles seeking a high-quality planar magnetic headphone that won’t break the bank, the Moondrop PARA appears as a compelling choice, offering a well-rounded package. We believe it’s well-deserved to grant our Headfonia recommendation to the PARA, placing it among esteemed peers!
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/moondrop-para-review/
Sivga Luan [Added 07/09/2023]
I’m thoroughly impressed with the overall quality and performance of the new Sivga Luan. The new model has a sleek and premium design while also being very comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. In terms of sound, the balance and naturalness truly stand out to me. The technical performance is also impressive. Even better is that it’s budget-friendly, making it an excellent option for those looking for high-quality audio without spending too much.
Sivga has taken a suitable approach that meets the market’s demands for design, build quality, and sound performance. They are rapidly improving themselves, and their recent creation of dynamic headphones, including the SV023 and this one, are highly capable and competitive units. They can showcase similar progress with their planar-magnetic models under the Sendy Audio brand.
Looking forward to it.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/sivga-luan-review/
Meze Audio 105 AER [Added 29/11/2024]
Meze Audio kept it simple: They utilised the fantastic design language and premium build, made a tuning appealing to most people, created a headphone that is easy to drive, and priced it competitively. There you have it. The 105 AER is a good option for casual listeners needing good and comfortable headphones. There is no need for complex desktop systems; just a DAP or maybe even a smartphone output, and you’re good to go.
I prefer the performance of the 109 Pro, which is still one of the best below the $1,000 budget, but not everyone is willing to invest that much money in headphones. So, for its target audience, I think the 105 AER delivers. Its tuning is perfect for a broader audience, and it’s excellently coherent, with a consistent and smooth performance. From the design to the materials and sound quality, it’s hard to find an apparent weakness in the overall performance.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/meze-audio-105-aer-review/
Sennheiser HD600/650
These are both great all-rounder headphones with reference qualities. They have been around for decades already but they’re still highly popular because of their sublime sound. The HD600 has a leaner sound with forward mids, good treble and midrange detail, good bass impact. The pace is moderately fast. If you like a more laid-back sound with fuller lows while retaining the overall detail level, more emotion, and listen to slower-paced songs, go for the HD650. An amplifier is recommended for both headphones and they will sound their very best in combination with a tube amplifier like the Bottlehead Crack or a solid-state amp like the Beyerdynamic A20 which has a warmer and smoother character. These headphones are here to stay and we’ve been calling them “classics” for a while already. You owe it to yourself to have once owned either of these masterpieces from Sennheiser.
Between $399 (HD600) and $549 (HD650) from Sennheiser
Review HD600: https://www.headfonia.com/the-sennheiser-trio-hd580-hd600-hd650/
Review HD650: https://www.headfonia.com/the-dark-sennheiser-hd650-all-for-the-music/
Hifiman Edition XS [Added 29/05/2022]
I think Hifiman Edition XS might be the best headphone under $400-$500. It has a truthful and neutral presentation with great decay and transparency. It’s not too hard to drive, and it certainly has what it takes to be a reference headphone for the price.
Sure, there’s always a superior headphone out there, and there always will be, but if you’re not willing to spend huge amounts of cash on an open-back headphone for your desktop, it would be difficult for you to find a better option than the Edition XS.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/hifiman-edition-xs-review/
Fosi Audio i5 Rev2 [Added 08/06/2025]
When I was writing about the first revision of Fosi i5, I was THAT close to giving it the Headfonia Recommended award. The only thing that kept me was the deficient bass, as I knew that many would yearn for more booty. It’s 2025, and it’s okay for audiophiles to like low-end!
I wasn’t the only reviewer who pointed out the potential problem in the lows, and Fosi responded with a fix that’s both simple and brutally effective! Now the i5 truly does it all, and I can safely recommend it for everyone looking for an open-back under $1000 USD. It will be a good deal even after the early-bird period, and I can’t wait to see what Fosi can do in the future.
Audeze, Hifiman, DCA, and other planar specialists should keep their eyes peeled!
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/fosi-audio-i5-rev2-review/
Sennheiser HD 660S2 [Added 09/05/2023]
In very short we can say the HD 660S2 is a great headphone with an excellent price/quality ratio.
Where the Sennheiser HD 660S was good, it to me never was the headphone that could make me completely forget about the HD 600 and HD 650. That’s exactly what’s different with this new S2 update. This time I do feel that people in 10 years’ time will still be talking about the HD 660S2, just like they did with the HD 650 and HD 600. The original HD 660S did not get our recommended buy award, but I feel the sound quality has improved in every possible way here. As such it is getting our Recommended Buy Award this time, and the HD 660S2 now is featured on our Best Headphone list.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/sennheiser-hd-660s2-review/
Hifiman Ananda Nano [Added 30/07/2023]
Wrapping up, the Hifiman Ananda Nano stands as a testament to Hifiman’s devotion to innovation and quality. This headphone, priced at $599, delivers an exceptional audio experience that is hard to match in its price range. Its neutral sound signature, coupled with a fast, impactful bass and a vivid, natural midrange, offers a listening experience that is both immersive and satisfying. The treble extends beautifully, adding to the overall coherence of the sound.
The Ananda Nano’s technical performance is remarkable, with its snappy PRaT, great accuracy, and uncolored timbre. The wide and deep soundstage, along with excellent imaging, further enhances the listening experience. The Ananda Nano is a testament to what can be achieved when innovative technology, like the Nanometer Thickness Diaphragm, is applied with a deep understanding of what makes sound reproduction satisfying to the human ear. This headphone is a worthy investment for any audiophile looking for a high-quality, reliable, and impressive performer.
The Ananda Nano is a recommended buy!
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/hifiman-ananda-nano-review/
iBasso Audio SR3 [Added 07/05/2023]
The iBasso SR3 is an exceptional headphone that comes with a high-quality build, offers excellent comfort, and most importantly, excellent sound quality. With its impactful lows, clean midrange, and smooth highs, the SR3 caters to a wide range of musical preferences, making it an excellent choice for music aficionados. If you’re in the market for a new pair of headphones, you should definitely check the SR3 out. We believe it’s well-deserved to grant our Headfonia recommendation to the SR3, placing it among esteemed peers!
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/ibasso-sr3-review/
DCA – Dan Clark Audio Noire X [Added 13/02/2025]
If it’s not apparent from the wall of text above, I had an absolute joy listening to the DCA Noire X! Dan Clark has gathered a ton of experience with the Aeon series and the Noire X is a worthy culmination of the series. It’s not just “good for a closed-back”, in many cases I’d grab it over many open-backs even if isolation isn’t a strict requirement. The DCA Noire X is one of the rare cases where the utility of a closed-back headphone doesn’t come with any of the drawbacks.
Of course, this doesn’t mean the DCA Noire X is perfect. The peak in the 5-6kHz range can be a problem for some people, especially if they’re running more clinical-sounding setups. I’ve also heard that the metamaterial waveguide doesn’t work for some listeners. Neither of these caveats will keep me from awarding the DCA Noire X with the “Headfonia Recommended” award. I’d go as far as to say that it’s a pretty safe buy without auditioning first. Just make sure to wear gloves when handling the glass earcup plates!
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/dan-clark-audio-dca-noire-x-review/
Shanling HW600 [Added 17/12/2024]
To put it in a nutshell, the Shanling HW600 is a true bang for your buck: an over-ear, planar headphone, standing out as one of the best options in its category. Sure, $1,000 remains a hefty sum, even more for a brand that isn’t known for its headphones, but I still consider the new HW600 one of the most potent and versatile options on the market today, combining exceptional value, great comfort, premium material and incredible scalability with higher end sources.
Sound-wise, it might appear a bit too soft for some planar lover, but as far as I’m concerned, I’d say that Shanling nailed the sound signature of the HW600, offering the right balance between fun, and accuracy. I Love it! So yeah, if you’re in the market for a flagship headphone, without their insane price-tag, the Shanling HW600 is the one to get – in my opinion. A headphone that goes to our recommendation list, obviously.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/shanling-hw600-review/
Sennheiser HD800
The flagship from Sennheiser is a very picky headphone. It is often recommended with amplifiers priced above $1,000 and with similarly priced sources. The recording quality is also very essential. Don’t expect to be playing Top40, Pop, Jpop music with these cans and get satisfaction. But if you already have a good high-end source and amplifier and high-resolution source files, then the HD800 will deliver music at an unsurpassed refinement level. The voicing is sublime for Classical, Jazz, and Vocals. It won’t work with Rock and RnB and other mainstream music. Most impressive about this gorgeous-looking headphone are its sound stage width and depth, its spaciousness, accuracy & speed, and finally the level of detail. While the HD800 for a lot of people is an end-game headphone, others can stand how analytical it sounds. With a great amplifier however, this headphone will produce the sound of a level you didn’t know was possible. I’ll take the original HD800 over the bass heavier HD800S on any day.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/hd800-t1/ & https://www.headfonia.com/picture-sunday-sennheiser-hd800/
Hifiman Arya Unveiled [Added 19/01/2024]
HIFIMAN has created wonderful headphones with the Arya Unveiled. Its neutral warm sound is excellent for a broad variety of genres. The Arya Unveiled convinces with superb technicalities, a large-scale sound stage and immaculate imaging. Especially Arya Unveiled’s vocals are what truly struck me though. They are perfectly shaped and oh so addictive. The warmer tuned treble and top comfort make way for hours of fatigue-free listening sessions, where you can simply enjoy your music open-end.
The Arya Unveiled is a great headphone, with the only drawback to me being the plastic ear-cups. A change in material would have reflected the premium choice of the Arya Unveiled better in my opinion. But maybe HIFIMAN could not have offered the Arya Unveiled at that price then. Who knows.
The sound quality of the Arya Unveiled in respect to its price is outstanding, and for this, they deserve their seat at our Recommended Headphones table.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/hifiman-arya-unveiled-review/
Hifiman HE6SE
With the right (powerful) solid-state or tube headphone amplifier, the Hifiman HE6SE absolutely impresses. It’s a neutral reference at its very best and if you like technicalities, you’ll be in heaven for sure. And it gets even better, if you already own a good speaker amp, you can just hook it up to the speaker taps and enjoy it like that. The fact is though that you need to properly amp your HE6SE and even more, you have to make sure the synergy between the amp and headphone sits right. But do that and it will wow you. The original HE6 is an icon and the new HE6SE extends that certificate for another 10 years. If a linear, balanced and neutral tuning with a musical presentation is your thing, then you owe it to yourself to listen to the HE6SE, it will surprise you in a good way for sure. The HE6SE has left me with a big smile on my face every single time I listened to it. It’s precise, a technical marvel and it does all that with a musical and engaging touch. How can you not love it?
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/hifiman-he6se-review/
Abyss JOAL [Added 25/03/2025]
I so far like all of Abyss’ headphones, and it is no different this time. The Abyss JOAL is a well-built, cool looking stealthy headphone with an excellent build quality.
While it is the cheapest Abyss in the company’s line-up, it doesn’t sacrifice on build quality, design and performance. The JOAL is the kind of headphone that makes listening to music fun, no matter what genre it is you prefer.
While the unit can be driven by almost everything, I do find it to perform best with desktop amplification. It just scales up so nicely with better amplification and it is transparent in this regard.
If the Diana units were always out of your league, the JOAL might be the one that finally lets you taste Abyss’ magic. Seeing the price/quality ratio of the JOAL is excellent for the US audience, I can safely give it our Recommended Buy Award, and add it to our list of Recommended headphones.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/abyss-joal-review/
Dan Clark Audio DCA E3 [Added 07/05/2024]
The DCA E3 at this time is one of the best tuned closed-back headphones on the market. DCA puts it in the Mid-Fi area, but it in reality is a high-end performer. The E3 not only performs and delivers with great, open and refined sound. It also provides you with all the advantages of a closed-back headphone. The E3 is a pleasure to the eye with a beautiful design and eye-catching blue highlights. Finally we can state that the E3 is compact, portable and super comfortable all at the same time. As such it is an easy recommendation and the DCA E3 is our newest Recommended Buy Award winning headphone. It goes to our Best Buy list where it is in very good company.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/dan-clark-dca-e3-review/
HEDD Audio HEDDphone TWO [Added 12/02/2024]
With the HEDDphone 2, HEDD Audio has again delivered an interesting take on modern headphone design. While it isn’t a headphone that will win a beauty contest or win everyone over on a tuning point of view, it scores heavily on technical performance amd mid timbre. With its more neutral and precise & resolving, clear tuning, the HEDDphone TWO connects more to HEDD’s core business and professional studio use.
The HEDDphone TWO is a headphone which is very differently tuned than its older sibling, but it’s also a tuning which more and more headphone enthusiasts are longing for. This clearly shows as the first 3 batched have sold out already. While the TWO doesn’t come cheap, it is much more affordable than most of the popular high-end headphones on the market and we have to applaud HEDD Audio for this price setting.
If you’re looking for a balanced and linear headphone with a more neutral tuning, mid focus and technical excellence, combined with a musical delivery, the HEDDphone TWO can be the one for you. As both of HEDD’s headphones are so different, I am hoping to see a 3rd unit in the near future combining the strengths of both headphones. That would be an absolute killer headphone. The original HEDDphone made it to our Recommended Buy list. As said the HEDDphone TWO is a very different headphone and I at this stage am putting it on our wall of fame because of its more studio like tuning. The TWO isn’t the all-round perfect headphone for everyone, but it does perfectly so what it was intended to do. As such we can recommend it and it is replacing the original HEDDphone on our Recommended Buy list.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/heddphone-two-review/
Hifiman Mini Shangri La [Added 16/12/2024]
The Mini Shangri-La system is a commendable achievement from Hifiman. It brings the high-end electrostatic sound experience into a more accessible price range. This is a fantastic opportunity for enthusiasts who have always admired the pinnacle of electrostatic performance but found systems like the Hifiman Shangri-La or Sennheiser HE 1 out of reach. For “most mortals”, this setup provides a pathway into the elite realm of audio fidelity without the six-figure investment.
The Mini Shangri-La offers a highly satisfying and immersive listening experience. Its system is designed to bridge the gap between aspirational high-end sound and real-world budgets, making it a truly remarkable offering in the electrostatic headphone market.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/hifiman-mini-shangri-la-review/
Austrian Audio The Composer [Added 23/04/2024]
This time it is very simple, the Austrian Audio The Composer is an excellent all-round high-end headphone. It not only offers a nice design and great comfort, but its performance is up there with the very best, even if it isn’t perfect. It’s the kind if headphone that is easy to like and easy to listen to, even for non audiophiles. The Composer will impress you even more when you use it with the better desktop amplification, resulting in a precise, clean, technically strong, engaging and musical sound. What more can you ask for? If you’re looking for a top-performing headphone with a musical delivery, look no further. The Composer is our newest Recommended Buy Award winner, and it now goes on our Recommended Buy list where it is in excellent company.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/austrian-audio-the-composer-review/
ZMF Atrium Closed [Added 30/01/2024]
The ZMF Atrium Closed isn’t new, but it has quickly become one of my favorite closed-back headphones. The Atrium Closed doesn’t come cheap but you definitely get good value in return.
The Atrium Closed is technically strong and musical at the same time and it’s just a pure pleasure to use all day long. For a closed-back headphone, the Atrium Closed sounds very open, spacious and realistic. It’s a headphone than can bring a smile on your face but it also pleases the audiophile with high technical requirements. A beautiful design, excellent sound and a musical experience all-in-one. That can only mean we are giving the ZMF Atrium Closed our Recommended Buy Award. It simply is another really good and beautiful headphone.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/zmf-atrium-closed-review/
Hifiman HE1000 Unveiled [Added 28/01/2025]
Like with the Susvara and Arya, Hifiman with this new Unveiled model has again managed to improve the original by pushing the technical boundaries.
I have always been a fan of the HE1000 headphones and the Unveiled version to me is the best of the series so far. It is technically strong as well as musical and it checks most, if not all of my boxes. It is a very comfortable and unique looking headphone. Not everyone will like the design, headband system and especially the open drivers but personally I feel it looks great. And as I am careful with my gear, the open driver doesn’t worry me one bit. A good amplifier however is still recommended for the HE1000 U to sound its best. The HE1000 is quite transparent, and it will show you what your setup brings to the table. Your amplifier will heavily define how your HE1000 Unveiled sounds in the end. If you’re in the market for a high-end headphone in this price class, the Hifiman HE1000 Unveiled is one of, if not the best option of the moment. It absolutely deserves our Recommended Buy Award.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/hifiman-he1000-unveiled-review/
Abyss DIANA MR [Added 26/11/2024]
The DIANA MR is a high-end headphone that not only looks great and offers good comfort, it also is a headphone that is easy to drive. The DIANA MR plays at a high technical level but it at the same time is easy to listen to. The MR is very musical, forgiving and very engaging. You just want to play more and more of your favorite tracks and I on many occasions have found myself listening to my favourite albums till very late at night.
While the DIANA TC still is the resolution king, I think a lot of people might prefer the MR’s more engaging, full and softer/warmer tuning. It’s good that Abyss has different DIANA tunings, so you don’t have to choose just one. All of Abyss’ headphones are complementary, with the AB1266 PHI at the top of the tree. It is very easy for me to give the Abyss DIANA MR our Recommended Buy Award, at it is now listed in our Headphone Buyer’s Guide where it is in very good company. The DIANA TC stays on the list as well as it’s a very different headphone. The DIANA MR is also a strong contender for our Headphone of the Year Award later in December. Stay tuned!
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/abyss-diana-mr-review/
Meze Audio Empyrean 2 [Added 08/11/2023]
With the Empyrean 2, Meze Audio is walking into a new direction. In this new tuning, neutrality, clarity, speed and spaciousness are keywords. Gone are characteristics such as warmth, body and lushness. The Empyrean 2 is very different from the original as well as their ELITE headphone. Some will welcome this, others will still prefer the old style original tuning. Or you can just like all 3 of them. In terms of build quality, comfort and design, Meze still fully delivers and you get what you expect at this price point, a top-level headphone in all possible ways.
Before the Empyrean 2 was announced, the ELITE was a Recommended Buy Award winner and it still is 0n our Recommended Headphone Buy list. The new Empyrean 2 will not replace the ELITE on that list, but it is joining it. The new Empyrean 2 headphone is so different that they both can coexist and deserve a spot on our Best Headphone list. The Meze Audio Empyrean 2 is a new recommended buy. Again, if you are after the original Empyrean sound and you don’t have one yet in your collection, now is the time to get it, before they all are gone.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/meze-audio-empyrean-2-review/
Abyss Headphones Diana DZ [Added 05/11/2024]
I always enjoy reviewing and listening to Abyss headphones but I really like the DZ’s new headband and pad design. With the reduced weight and the improved comfort, the DZ is the best one to use. It’s not only the design and comfort part I like, I am also a big fan of the Diana DZ’s tuning and it’s an excellent all-round performing headphone. The clarity, spaciousness, precision, overall timbre, bass slam and top end liveliness are some of the things I absolutely adore with this headphone. Combine it with a top level source and amp, and you’ll get a reference level sound with a musical and engaging delivery.
The DZ doesn’t come cheap and you don’t get any additional accessories besides the case, but Abyss does use top level materials, delivers a superb build quality as well as a high-end highly resolving tuning. The Diana TC as well as the Diana MR both received our Recommended Buy Award when we reviewed it. Looking at the improvements and performance of the new Diana DZ model, it again is very easy to award this latest revision. Well done Joe and team!
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/abyss-diana-dz-review/
ZMF Audio Caldera [Added 20/11/2023]
The ZMF Caldera isn’t new, but it was Zach’s first proprietary planar driver and it still is a relevant flagship headphone. The Caldera doesn’t come cheap but you definitely get good value in return.
The Caldera is technically strong and musical at the same time and it’s just a pure pleasure to use all day long. I have a lot of excellent new full-sized headphones to review over the next coming weeks, and even with that in mind it is very easy for me to give the ZMF Caldera our Recommended Buy Award. It simply is a really good and beautiful headphone from an excellent company. Period.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/zmf-caldera-review/
Raal Requisite SR-1b [Added 04/07/2023]
It’s true that you need to have the interface or a specific type of amplifier (so a higher budget) to use the SR-1b, but it’s just something to take into account upfront if you’re interested in this headphone. As synergy is very important here, I recommend trying it out on as much as amplifiers as possible before ordering just anything to drive the SR-1b.
The experience and typical sound the SR-1b produces is unique, it’s not just another type of headphone sound. Raal and Requisite have really managed to produce a type of headphone sound that wasn’t available before. Not only is it unique. The technical performance is out of this world and the musical character is always present. The Raal SR-1b with the right amp (I recommend the Envy and OOR), delivers your favorite music in an effortless way. It’s so pleasing to the ear and easy to listen to that it’s hard going back to a regular type of headphone. As such this is a very easy recommendation for me, and the Raal Requisite SR-1b gets our Recommended Buy Award. It is now featured on our Best Headphone list which you can find here.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/raal-requisite-sr-1b-review/
Meze Audio ELITE [Added 01/09/2021]
When the original Empyrean was released back in 2018, we were thrilled just like many headphone enthusiasts out there. The Empyrean even won our 2018 Best Headphone award in the Price no object category. Now 3 years later Meze is back with a new flagship headphone. Meze together with Rinaro built new drivers from the ground up, and that resulted in a more balanced, faster, more precise and cleaner sounding headphone. The clarity of the ELITE is really nice and it does complex and fast passages in a better way. The Empyrean is still good, but the ELITE is a technically stronger headphone. At the same time you can rest assured that there still is plenty of body, bass and fun in general. While it actually is a new headphone, I can see why it would be a higher end or dare I say improved Empyrean for many out there.
As said, I’m lucky to have both headphones here with me and I’ve been switching between both a lot. If I have to decide now which one suits my tastes best, it would be the ELITE. But that of course could be different for you. Does this new ELITE mean that you have to upgrade from your Empyrean right away? No, it does not. If you like the way the Empyrean presents your favorite tunes, then stick to it. If you feel your Empyrean could be even better in a technical way as described in this review, then yes, try it!
The ELITE, also for us, still is very new. I will be spending a lot more time with the ELITE over the next few weeks and months. If I feel the need to tell more about it or if I feel my opinion on something has changed, I will for sure add that to this article or do a follow-up article on the ELITE. For now this is it. Let us know in the comments section what you’re still dying to find out about the new ELITE, and we’ll try to help you out.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/review-meze-audio-empyrean-elite/
DCA EXPANSE [Added 06/12/2022]
I am very impressed with what Dan Clark and DCA have achieved with this headphone. The DCA EXPANSE is one of the sexiest headphones on the market, it is it super comfy and it has top notch build quality.
On top of that, the EXPANSE also produces sublime, addictive sound. The EXPANSE is not only very musical but it’s energetic and technically strong at the same time. With that combination, the EXPANSE is easy to like and listen to. For me it is a very easy decision to grant the DCA EXPANSE our Recommended Buy Award, and it is now featured on our Best Headphone list. A strong contender for the end of year award, you say? Yes, indeed.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/dca-expanse-review/
DCA Corina [Added 04/12/2023]
To me the DCA Corina is one of the most musical, engaging and natural sounding electrostatic headphones I have had the pleasure to listen to. I absolute love the weight and fullness it shows from top to bottom and the musical and softer presentation really make this headphone work for all types of music.
The Corina is close to the Harman target curve, except for the sub bass range where it is a bit lighter in presence. It also from the 5k region up rolls off more in a peaky way compared to the Harman curve, but it doesn’t sound weird or unnatural to me. I have been really enjoying the Corina, especially with the Hifiman Shangri-La Jr. headphone amplifier and it is a setup I easily recommend for audiophiles who want to get into the world of electrostatic headphones but without having to give up the pure musical enjoyment and natural, more weighty presentation.
The DCA Corina doesn’t come cheap but pure from a performance and tuning perspective, it is very easy for me to give it our Recommended Buy Award.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/dca-corina-review/
Abyss Diana TC [Added 02/08/2022]
The Diana TC is an excellent high-end headphone. If you like excellent PRaT, precision, a high resolution and an airy, spacious presentation, then the TC will be the perfect headphone for you. The TC is also small in size, which makes it one of the most portable high-end headphones on the market and for on the go. The downside here is that it needs good amplification, and not just power.
After spending multiple months with the Diana TC it is very easy for me to grant it our Recommended Buy Award. It is replacing the Diana Phi from our Best Buy Headphone list, where it is in good company.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/abyss-headphones-diana-tc-review/
Audeze LCD-5 [Added 31/10/2021]
The LCD-5 is the type of headphone that grows on you and once it has gotten to you, it’s impossible not to like its precision, clarity, transparency and energy.
It for sure is one of Audeze’s most neutral and precisely tuned headphones, but they have managed to do it in the most exciting and musical way. What I also like about the new Audeze LCD-5, is that it isn’t just for studios and professionals, but it is musically strong enough and very engaging to please the most discerning audiophile at home. The Audeze LCD-5 is one of the more expensive flagship planar headphones on the market, but you for that money get a great looking, well-built and impressive sounding headphone in return. I’m a fan!
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/audeze-lcd-5-review/
Hifiman HE-R10P [Added 25/05/2021]
The Hifiman HE-R10P is a high end headphone with a corresponding price tag but the sound quality you get in return is exceptional for a closed back headphone.
The Audeze LCD-XC has been my favorite closed back headphone for a long time, but the number one spot has now been taken by the HE-R10P.
If you need the comfort of a closed back headphone and you want it to sound as close as possible to an open back type one, then the Hifiman HE-R10P is the 1st headphone you should look at. An excellent technical performance, a high level of musicality and a lovely design. What’s not to like?
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/Hifiman-he-R10P-review
Hifiman Susvara Unveiled [Added 03/12/2024]
The new Hifiman Susvara Unveiled is a masterpiece building upon the legacy of the original Susvara. The Unveiled performs at a very high level where only a select few of the very best headphones on the market can compete with it.
If you do plan on getting the Susvara Unveiled, make sure that the rest of your setup can match its performance. While it is a bit easier to drive, the Unveiled does require a high-end DAC and amp in order to really hear what it is capable of.
If you are in the market for a super high-end headphone and already have a great setup, the Hifiman Susvara Unveiled definitely has to be on your shortlist. For me personally, the Susvara Unveiled is one of the best headphones on the market and as such it is easy for me to give it my Recommended Buy Award.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/hifiman-susvara-unveiled-review/
Hifiman SHANGRI-LA Jr [Added 14/03/2023]
For most mortals – me included – the super high-end electrostat systems from Hifiman and Sennheiser are unobtanium. This high-end SHANGRI-LA jr setup basically is the next best thing, offering a top level electrostat sound with an acceptable and accessible price tag.
Not only is the SHANGRI-LA jr perfectly designed, but the build quality is also astonishing. The SHANGRI-LA jr delivers the typical electrostat sound signature, with a high level of technicalities. What I love about the SHANGRI-LA jr is that it does it all effortlessly and the 6SN7 tubes provide just enough smoothness and warmth in this combo to make the whole experience musical and engaging.
It’s the first time on Headfonia that we’re giving an electrostat system our Recommended Buy award, but in this case it’s fully deserved. The SHANGR-LA jr is now featured on our Best Headphone list, where it is in good company.
Review: https:/www.headfonia.com/hifiman-shangri-la-jr-review/
RAAL 1995 Immanis [Added 10/09/2024]
The RAAL 1995 Immanis, with its Ribbon technology, is a unique headphone with a sound signature that is just as special. Listening to a RAAL Ribbon driver for the first time will seriously impress you. If you never got to like the SR-1b or found it too weird for your taste, I strongly advise you to give the Immanis (or Magna for that matter) a new chance. If you like a high-end sound where you get a superbly strong technical performance but with a musical and energetic delivery, the Immanis is the perfect headphone for you. I place it very high in my personal list of favorite headphones.
If you plan on adding the Immanis to your collection, I would certainly advise to check the synergy with your collection of amplifiers. At the same time, there are multiple amplifiers that make the Immanis sound great. It’s clear that the Immanis scales up together with your amplifier, my favorite being the Auris Headonia 300b. For you it might be a different combo of course. Anyway, if you are looking for a TOTL reference headphone and have the budget for the headphone and the amplification, then this is a headphone to shortlist. Fully recommended from my end, and the Immanis is our Newest Recommended Buy Award winner. It is now added to our list of award winning headphones, where it is in good company.
Review: https://www.headfonia.com/raal-1995-immanis-review/
Not found what you were looking for? Make sure to check out all of our Best Buy paged and Recommended Buys here: https://www.headfonia.com/best-gear/
Joe
mike..looking forward to your hd700 and amperior reviews, LOL.. now you have to approach a sennheisser rep quick.. :p
Mike
Not a problem Joe, will do.
Steven Hearnden
Sennheiser, hifiman, but no Grado?
Utterly clueless, I’m afraid. Headfonia, really?
Lieven
For the moment, based on the reviews done, there’s no spot for Grado in this list. Sorry.
Joe
Completely agree about Grado.
Glad to see Meze here though.
Artem
What about Shure 1540? How they compare to Hifiman HE-560?
Chris
Any recommendations for something in the price rangge of the CX300-II? Amazon says it is “currently unavailable”.
Mike
Chris,
The CX400s actually are very good as well, and not that much different price wise than the CX300s. http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001EZWO5O/ref=as_li_ss_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=headfonia-20&linkCode=as2&camp=1789&creative=390957&creativeASIN=B001EZWO5O
Adrian
The headphones are listed here in order of increasing price.
Can you list them in order of increasing performance?
Thanks.
dale thorn
I looked at the list, and if it were rearranged by increased performance, it would still be about the same.
Nate
Mike, any recommendations for headphones that have better sounding to Sennheiser HD-650 that have similar warmth and lushness with a bit of treble?
Thanks
Nate
Mike, any recommendations for headphones that have better sounding to Sennheiser HD-650 that have similar warmth and lushness with a bit of treble and cleaner sound?
Thanks
Fex
Beyerdynamics DT 990 Pro
CARCARA
I’m looking for an amplifier to use with my HD650, and I was thinking of the A20, this statement is still valid: “600/650 will sound your best”?
“An amplifier is recommended for both headphones and they will sound their very best in combination with a tube amplifier like the Bottlehead Crack or a solid state amp like the Beyerdynamic A20 which has a warmer and smoother character”
Eduardo
How would you define the signature of a tube amplifier, like BH crack, with a non-tube amplifier like the A20 or the V100?
I’m not asking what would be better for the money, but rather, for wanting to know more the difference of the tube for the solid
Lieven
ss is usually faster, tighter and more neutral in sound. Some wold say it sounds more dry compared to the lushness of the tubes.
The A20 is a warm sounding ss though, the V100 is the most neutral of the Violectric series. The BH crack can be both depending on the tubes used, but I’d go for some good liquid sounding ones
Eduardo
And comparing tubes and solid with warm signature, tubes with a warm signature still have better bass and treble softer compared to a solid amplifier with warm sound?
Does the BH crack inical (299) with the factory tubes come with this hot signature?
Teoman Taner
So I like fantasizing about theoretical ultimates even if there’s a 0.00000002% I’ll ever have the income to get them. In a fashion that’s beyond our class, can the Sennheiser HE1 still be considered the absolute pinnacle of headphone sets, budget non withstanding?
Wills
Well not really. The Hifiman Shagari La is right behind the He-1
gny
I’m surprise that there is no B&O in your list
Linus
We can only put on the list what we’ve heard extensively. If it’s not on the list, it either doesn’t deserve to be, or none of us has had the pleasure of reviewing it (yet).
Sagar Arakh
Great information. I would say Meze 99 has best performance as it’s audio output is very balanced.
peterapperup
I agree completely with your description of the Sennheiser hd800.
Sivakumar
I am a big Sennheiser fan and 560s is my 2nd pair of Sennheiser. Excellent audio quality. Really flat and clear sound. As with most Sennheiser headphones this produces a tight but somewhat light bass sound.
Blair Doyle
Just wondering if the Fostex TH900mk2 falls into the category of one you haven’t reviewed yet, or one that doesn’t deserve to be on the list? Thanks!
Lieven
The not reviewed category. It’s quite nice!
Xfusion
So the only audeze in this line up is the XC and the Mobious? Somehow LCD 2, or 4 or 4z are not on par with something like Rad-O? How bad are those LCD 4 or 4z?
Lieven
4 and 4z were not reviewed by the team, so we can’t put them in there. IMO the 2 doesn’t belong in the list at this time.
Jordan Jacobs
Has anyone heard the Monoprice M1570’s, they get good reviews, wondering how they compare to headphones on this list?
Frank
Hey there headfonia-Team,
Any words on DENON Headphones?
Thinking ’bout buying the AH-D7200 Headphones and wished you could help me in classifying it against those other models on your list.
Would e.g. a Meze 99 Classics give a better performance than the DENON for less $$$?
Thank you!
Regards, Frank
Lieven
Hi Frank, no the DENON would be best. It’s a great headphone, a bit dark if I remember well.
It’s impossible to get for review, that’s why it isn’t mentioned here
Budbzash
The headphones are listed here in order of increasing price.
Can you list them in order of increasing performance?
Thanks.
Lieven
Hi!
No we won’t, we rank all categories this way
Malcolm ginnis
anybody heard of electrostatic head phones and amps? they do exist you know
Lieven
Sure, but they haven’t made it to the list yet. Maybe soon, who knows
Riccardo
Hi, just wondering why you haven’t considered the audio technica adx5000? I thought it is quite a classic strong performer within dynamic headphones.
Lieven
It unfortunately is impossible to get for review
Markus Li
I have a pair of Arya Stealth Magnet and am very happy with it! It can handle any kind of my daily useage.
In the other hand, I will never forgot LCD5 performance after my first try. I want it so bad but my wallet tell me not to.
Andrey
Wow!!! Such a long list without Susvara???))) I have owned lots of this list items, but ended up with Susvara. So it’s strange not to see Hifiman totl headphone in this list..
Lieven
The Susvara should be in there. The problem is we haven’t reviewed it.
Steven Sylvester
Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X?
Please can I ask? is the above headphones,best for general music listening?or is it mainly aimed at studio folk?
thanking you in advance
Lieven
They’re aimed for Studio Use, but you can use them for casual listening as well. I wouldn’t say this or any other headphone is the “best”
Steven Sylvester
Hello
Many thanks for your reply,I think I need a good pair of Balanced headphones,I had not noticed that the BEYERDYNAMICS were not BALANCED HEADPHONE’S
Lieven
Correct, but they can be modified to balanced
Steven Sylvester
Hi Lieven
Good to hear further from you.is it an easy job,to make the modifications to the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X to make them 4.4mm balanced?
Lieven
You need to do the rewiring directly to each speaker and switch the cable plug
Steven Sylvester
Many thanks
all the best Steve
james g
recommend you try the focal utopia and hifiman susvara, their absence makes it difficult to take this list seriously.
Lieven
The Susvara is absolutely recommended. If you have read my reviews you would know I love it. The reason it isn’t in this list is because we haven’t officially reviewed it yet.
The Utopia is one of the very few headphones I have sold as I did not like it, so that one won’t make it to the list, sorry.
Nath
The Susvara on Kallyste Amethyste amp is an experience you should live.
Athanasio Theodorou
Among others i own the Senheiser 800S, the Ananda and the Abyss Diana V2. The Senheiser does not sound very natural to my ears. The Ananda is the most easy listening and well balanced but does not have the clarity and detail desired. The Diana sounds better and more natural than all but sometimes depending on the recording there are some “thorns” in the upper mid quite annoying. Does the Moondrop Para deserves a place n my collection? I do not intent to pay money just to add a new pair of headphones in my collection
Hannu Mikkola
Thank you for you recommendations list. Based on the headphones I own and have owned, you have not been wrong ever. I’ve agreed with your list 100% and will continue to do so.
Lieven
Thank you!!
JB
Nice reviews, but Imo a huge lack from Focal (stellia / utopia 2022) that are in top 10 or even 5 (for utopia) easy
jack
I own several headphones, including the Sennheiser HD 800S, the Ananda, and the Abyss Diana V2. To me, the Sennheiser doesn’t sound very natural. The Ananda is the easiest to listen to and well-balanced but lacks the clarity and detail I’m looking for. The Diana V2 sounds better and more natural overall, though occasionally, depending on the recording, there can be some irritating “thorns” in the upper mids. I’m considering whether the Moondrop Para would be a worthwhile addition to my collection. I’m not interested in spending money just to add another pair of headphones without a significant benefit.
Lieven
Have you tried the He-1000?