Thank you for speaking to the Deva comparison. I have and love the Deva but if this is 99% of the the Deva, I would feel comfortable recommending these. The headband on the Devas can slip off your head (especially if you shave it) and it can create pressure points at the top of the head. These seem to be a slight improvement on the Deva design with a safer (if boring) color scheme. I absolutely love the Deva and have been dying to know what the hell the 5xx is supposed to be. I find it extremely difficult to believe that Drop never heard of the Devas.
... WTF is going on with Drop nowadays? Anyway, I'm going to pass for now until I see a review where someone compares these headphones side by side. Either these are different, then I'll pull the trigger. Or they are the same, in which case my prediction is that they'll have to reduce the price and then screw early adopters. Anyway, I can wait. In the meanwhile I'll just go enjoy my Sivga Phoenix :) Thanks @DMS for the review!
Drops communication has been quite weird recently IMO. I ordered a Panda back in May, scheduled to arrive at the end of August. They are now supposed to be shipped by the end of November. Not only that (Covid yada yada I get it) but Drop didn't send ONE email to inform their customers of delays, but expect you to check the community posts once a week where (hopefully) there's an update by Wednesday, yesterdays update ain't here yet. I'm frankly fucking pissed by now. Depending on the shipping experience and my overall impressions with the Pandas once they're here I'll probably not buy from there anymore. They really have to impress me to make up for this shit. JUST SEND AN EMAIL GOD DAMN I bought the PC37X two years ago, and I'm very interested in both the HE5XX and the PC38X, but I think I'll go for "no customer experience nightmare" next time Sorry, this wasn't meant to be a novel but I needed to vent
A proud owner of the orginal HE-500, still one of my most favourite headphone. I would cry river if mine ever break because Hifiman will never make another headphone like he HE-500 anymore.
It seem that you, zeos, and josh all have similarly different opinions on this headphone. I ordered one myself and can't wait to see what the fuss is about.
Only Josh didn't like them though, but that's because of his personal preference to certain sound signatures. Zeos and DMS agree about nearly all points.
@@makzniairaI don't care about what parts this headphone is made of/from. If it sounds good it sounds good and there's no doubt in my mind that I will thoroughly enjoy them. Hopefully these will be keepers in the long run.
I'm so excited for my pair to arrive, so far my only good pairs of headphones are the 6XX and the 4XX (I trust Drop a lot for some reason). I can't wait to see how it compares
I'd love to take a look at these and compare them to the Deva one day. Hopefully someone will send it in to my channel soon. I have the Deva, Sundara, and 400i in the house right now...
Yeah we need @InToit Reviews to break em down..Critique these bois, to their reality. Btw anyone not subbed, sub to him he's a legit reviewer that deserves more attention..
Jeez, these are now my favourite headphones... above the HD800S, Elex, 325x. What a brilliant bargain, so comfortable, exciting but smooth signature... finally found that all-rounder that is good with all the genres I listen to.
The HD650 is the midrange king under $300 but the 5xx walks all over the 600 series in terms of detail, speed, sound stage, slam, low end and treble. Detail is similar to Sundara but the 5xx has more bass and euphonic sound as opposed to clinical. I haven't heard the 560s but I doubt it beats this. Dare I say this is the best I've heard under $500?
I bought these to add to my collection, hoping that they would be very different from my Phoenixes (which I love, and I suspect some real unit variance in terms of how I perceive their sound with how you measured the sets you had). I was excited about the 5XX knowing full well they were a retooled Deva, if only because I could use drop points and they could be run balanced out of my dap. Excellent video, thanks for the detailed review of the sound. I love me some soundstage.
Original HE-500, one of the smoothest and least sounding headphones to land on this planet, being called shouty I find a very strange remark. It was certainly full sounding, which many referred to as 'liquid midrange' or 'holographic and engaging'. But opinions differ, as deviant as they may seem to me...
As a new person who entered the Audiophilia world (but on a budget, yeah yeah shout all you want) and just saw those AFTER I made the choice of snagging the HE4XX as comparison to my Sennheiser HD6XX and experience it myself. Love the HE4XX's but I had a bit of buyers remorse seeing the new HE-5XX on Drop... contemplated returning them right there (within 1 day) but I said, nope. These are in your collection now, so now I am trying to see if I can grab them before they're gone from Drop. Personally I love the all black look and the comfort of the HE4XX's. First time viewer, great video! Subscribed for more useful info like this!
The 5XX has more treble, but it's not sharp, so it doesn't hurt your ears like it would with the 4XX. The 5XX has more bass drop off than the 4XX, but it can easily be EQ'd. I find that vocals seem less recessed in the 5XX than they are in the 4XX. The 5XX has much more Soundstage and it has much more clarity, the bass is transparent which makes some songs much easier to listen to than on the 4XX. I used the 4XX for about 10 months now, and after buying the 5XX, I'm most likely never going to use my 4XX again.
I forgot to mention build and comfort. My pair of 5XXs have very little clamp force compared to the 4XX. The 5 also feels less dense of a headphone overall, and the metals may actually be of lesser quality, but it doesn't feel cheap. The 4 feels dense and well built, but it is heavy. The 5's pads are very spacious, to the point that it almost doesn't seal on my head. The 5's pads are a lot less dense and squishy, they don't feel as quality as the 4. The 4's pads have much less room inside of the pads, in fact I have to wiggle them to sleeve my ear inside of it. The 5 is extremely light, it feels like nothing on my head compared to the 4. The light weight of the 5 makes it so much easier to wear for longer periods of time, it doesn't get uncomfortable on my head like the 4 does. The 4 tends to start to feel a little uncomfortable after about two hours but it's never annoying or unbearable.
Overall, I recommend the 5XX over the 4XX completely. However I would stay away from it if you have a smaller head, because the pads might not seal completely, in which case I would get the 4XX instead. To my ears, the 5XX sounds absolutely incredible, if not perfect, but that's my ears not yours.
@@feels5460 thanks mate 👍 I was worried they would be less punchy in the bass department, do they have much less bass then the 4XX? Or is it just the extension
Definitely a more positive review than Josh's. I like my 6xx but I'm looking to complement it with something a little brighter with more soundstage. I was leaning toward the 560s but is this more in line for what I'm looking for? Would the sundara be worth the extra dough?
I am in the same boat right now and have considered similar options. Looking at the 5xx, 4xx, and 400i as a budget planar option, the Sundara as the mid tier planar, and then possibly the DT1990 pro as the big expensive wildcard. Just not sure what will compliment the sound of the 6xx the most. 6xx is very laid back and I like that a lot, but I want something more aggressive. I've heard that's pretty much what the 1990 does perfectly but not sure if I can stomach the price....
@@AFObball13 I'm considering all those as well, except maybe the DT 1990 as that's a bit out of my price range. The sundara is a bit of a wild card, is it that much better than the 5-xx or the 560s to justify the price? I've watched so many conflicting reviews it's hard to tell. I think my plan is to just wait for Black Friday and see which one goes on sale for the best price.
Just bought a used 5xx thanx to your spot on review. Amazing what can be bought for 140€, here in Finland. From the first song I played it was obvious it is not the same Sundara, 4xx, Ananda type of sound. This is like I am listening to a small version of my first Magnepan SMGc back in 80'. Wonderfool, just sweet musical enjoyment for good , acoustic music. I tried movies too but althought all sounds come very realistic I prefer a more spectacular, fuller presentation of Onkyo A800. Should I mention that I connected 5xx to my ifi zen can and zen blue2 via ballanced cable and that makes every note, sound so 3D like. Thanx for this review. P.S. I do enjoy my HD600 with DarkVoice maybe more but that will probably change soon.
Awesome review! I think I'm going to go with this since it was also recommended to me from an audio engineer friend for a $200 budget headphones. One thing I wish you expanded more on is the custom cable that you have. Looks dope, would love to get something with color other than the stock cables - since you said they also suck, lol.
Other people don't like it - DMS recommends it. Other people like it - DMS doesn't like it. I see a pattern here. Just kidding around man, thanks for the review and honest opinions.
No actually I think you're on to something. They're all shills, and those who aren't take that to far and just hate everything that others like, and like everything that others hate. Just because "ThEIr nOt ShILls"
Interesting, Josh Valour believes the He-400i 2020 outperforms the 5xx, but I've owned both and felt as though the 400i 2020 mids sound almost compressed in a way and I much preferred the 5xx, and agree with everything in this review. Could it be do to unit variation of 400i and I didn't give them a fair shake 🤔. Regardless, great review. Cheers
The HE-4XX, H400i and H400i 2020 all have slightly different tuning. These headphones are more neutral sounding headphones, which some people really like. Not Sennheiser level of neutral, but somewhat close to the Sundara if that makes sense.
Generally I can get this argument because it opens up the option of balanced cables to use with capable balanced amps, but although the Deva has a single entry, it is wired balanced internally. I don't see an advantage either.
Hey, for gaming get the PC38X, they're the best in that type. If you like Beyer headphones then the TYGR 300 R also have amazing imaging and great soundstage, but very punchy bass. You can also feel comfortable plugging the Beyer's into anything, they run pretty much the same from my phone and from an amp.
Well shoot. I was looking to pull the trigger on the Sundara but now I don't know. Sundara or 5XX to compliment the beginnings of my collection... I liked my 4XX a lot more than my DCA AFO RT but then I put the Dekoni Hybrid Elite pads on my AFO RT and I prefer them over the 4XX. This makes me feel I may actually prefer the 5XX to the Sundara? I have no idea.
@@sabumiah3421 I have an SMSL Sanskrit and a Schiit Modi Multibit for DACs and a Modius on the way. For amps I have a 789 that passes through into a Vali 2 so I can switch back and forth easily. I know the Sundara are probably a better set than the 5XX but what I don’t know is what will compliment my current collection better. 4XX, 6XX, Panda, DCA Aeon Flow Open RT, Dekoni Blue, and M50x. I don’t like the Dekoni blue, panda, and M50x, I love the Aeon (with a pad swap only) and 4XX. I appreciate the 6XX.
would you say this be a solid all-arounder? I'm looking to pick up a 2nd pair of headphones (been using a K7xx for 5 years now) I do play a lot of games (especially FPS games) but also a lot of music in general. Ive looked at the Sennheiser PC38x, but don't want to get it specifically for gaming. I also just want to try something "different" I've heard good things about Planars from audiophile friends. Do these have good spatial awareness?
Interesting review and headphone. I'm sure it's solid. But, IMHO, it does need broken down against Deva. We just wanna know, is there any difference in sound, understanding the fact that the driver and what not, is supposed to be the same, being you did check that out we heard and mention; but, then drop came out and showed a 'diagram' or picture, as if it's different..I just wanna know if it is different in sound, like any at all..
A few months ago, after several reviews, including yours, I got the1More Triple Driver Over Ears and the FiiO BTR5. I was blown away by how much of my music ( IPod latest generation) sounded completely brand new to me. I love them. The HD560s are on top of my to get list. But after this review, I am considering these. How much of an upgrade are these over the 1More’s?
@PYXB3 thank you, I actually ended up finding the Anandas at a good price. And I got the Ifi Zen Dac, also found a good deal. I am so happy. Like hearing my favorite music for the first time. I am still really happy with the 1More, for a closed back. Thank you for he input.
Just got the Jubilee's and the 6XX. Ordering the Sundara here soon and was curious without a mic for gaming would you recommend anything other than the K7XX since those arent available right now?
Not sure if you will read this.. But I've been really desperate lately in finding headphones that suit me. I've been using the 770's for a long time now and I just can't take the sibilance anymore. I'm really sensitive to siblilance. Which headphones would you recommend that have a very solid sound without harsh sibilance? Budget would be 400$ max. Hope you can help me out. Been grinding your videos lately, appreciate the content.
Did you run the He-5xx balanced? I'm running the xduoo ta-20. Wondering if the He-5xx responds well with a balanced tube setup. Haven't found any he-5xx reviews online with a balanced tube setup yet.
@@DMS3TV DMS, Dang yeah, just noticed they are 18ohms. Thanks for the heads up. Thinking I'll still pick up a pair. They might be my new headphones to run off the smartphone and dragonfly red set up. Currently using hifiman 400s with focus pads with it.
Apparently these headphones have a very out-of-your-head soundstage and the treble is emphasized, so it seems like these should be amazing for gaming. I'll see if I can confirm when I get my hands on them in a week or so.
@@denem4173 Yup! Got a pair. They are indeed amazing for gaming. The soundstage has about the same size as the HD558 (I think the 558's might be a little bit bigger?) but the 5XX has more treble and planar "effortlessness" which makes picking up small noises really easy. I completely recommend these, for both music and gaming.
@@feels5460 Nice! I am trying to choose between this and a PC38x, mainly gaming purposes as you can tell by the comparison ^^ But wouldn't say no to a great movie experience either. Enjoy your pair!
I was this close to buying deva but instead opted for tin p1. But after this review, I'm certainly going to but deva wired as p1 is narrow mid forward and I hope it will complement my p1 very well! ❤️
@Hersey Berry dbs tech talks is one of my favorites. He keeps it simple. We always have a long conversation in the comment section everytime he comes up with gears I'm interested in. He wasn't very positive about p1 but I bought it anyways as I found it on a very good deal. And it's because of him I have my eyes on hifiman Ananda as a potential end game. Thank you for your suggestion. ✌️
I don't think this competes with the 2020 Sundara, Watch Josh's review on this and watch the reviews of the Hifiman Deva (basically the same as this). You will see the Sundara is a significant step up.
Great, thanks guys. Would you still recommend 880 600 ohm if I’ve a Sundara? I’ve decided to get the 560s and i feel a beyer will complete the setup ;) Have a K5 pro to power these but thinking to get a topping stack (e30/l30) if I’m choosing a 600 ohm beyer.
Hey, can you get your hands on the new Emotiva airmotiv GR1. I ordered it already but love to hear what you think of them if good I'm happy if bad I will return ,I trust your input . It's 399.00
Soooo... when do you plan to bring us the review off the USB Shure SM7b? Would you recommend this Headphone for pairing with a Pro-Ject Head Box DS2 B. (Balanced headphone amp) www.project-audio.com/en/product/head-box-ds2-b/ I was already thinking about getting at least one pair of Magnetic planar headphones, to complete my collection. (DT770 Pro 250 Ohm Closed Back, HD660 S Open Back, AKG K702 on the way, was also thinking about DT880 600 Ohm version)
Hey DMS, you reviewed the k7xx and said that you didn't like them. Heard them too, and entirely agreed. I thought then that akg was a bad brand. Then I heard the k712 pro. Those blew me away. The vocal realism is incredible. Please review them, I really think you'd enjoy them.
Sennheiser 660s fixed the shouty mids of previous models and Sennheiser generally rolls off treble (HD800 series an outlier though). Hifiman and Audeze can be a little peaky to sensitive ears....all of this from what I've read, though. I only own the LCD-1, not the other models, and that can be a bit hot on poppy compressed music. If you have an amp the 6xx or 660s should be on your list. Maybe even look at the HD599 and HD560s...which is meant to be a new standard. When I checked reviews the Deva was meant to be warm too? Might want to double check on that, supposed to sound sweeter than the Sundara from some accounts.
@@Fischi29 To add on top of what Bradford said, the 650 has a midrange shout and is not very efficient. The 660s fixes this but requires an amp. I don’t know much about the 58x but sounds like that’s your best option if you’re looking for efficiency ;)
Hey, i need help in choosing my next headphone pair. I currently have the m40x for 4 years. I'm in search for under 200 dollars headphone, with good soundstage and bass. Something fun, i'm not monitoring or anything like that, and I listen to mostly to rap, rock, vocals and casual pip hop. I have another 100 dollars for amp to pair if needed. Any suggestions anyone?
Does anyone know if there are multiple iterations of this? I bought my pair about two months ago and the metal pieces on the headphones are dark metallic colored and it appears his are painted black. Do we know if the paint is the only difference?
Thank you for speaking to the Deva comparison. I have and love the Deva but if this is 99% of the the Deva, I would feel comfortable recommending these. The headband on the Devas can slip off your head (especially if you shave it) and it can create pressure points at the top of the head. These seem to be a slight improvement on the Deva design with a safer (if boring) color scheme. I absolutely love the Deva and have been dying to know what the hell the 5xx is supposed to be. I find it extremely difficult to believe that Drop never heard of the Devas.
He400i 2020 review in the near future mayhaps?
"Did not know 5XX being a Deva clone" - Drop LOL
... WTF is going on with Drop nowadays? Anyway, I'm going to pass for now until I see a review where someone compares these headphones side by side. Either these are different, then I'll pull the trigger. Or they are the same, in which case my prediction is that they'll have to reduce the price and then screw early adopters. Anyway, I can wait. In the meanwhile I'll just go enjoy my Sivga Phoenix :) Thanks @DMS for the review!
@@neocui sivga phoenix lmao
@@AlanGonzalez-ev6ur sivga phoenix best!
@@AlanGonzalez-ev6ur hey people like what they like, I don't think you have the same ears as this guy.
Drops communication has been quite weird recently IMO. I ordered a Panda back in May, scheduled to arrive at the end of August. They are now supposed to be shipped by the end of November. Not only that (Covid yada yada I get it) but Drop didn't send ONE email to inform their customers of delays, but expect you to check the community posts once a week where (hopefully) there's an update by Wednesday, yesterdays update ain't here yet.
I'm frankly fucking pissed by now. Depending on the shipping experience and my overall impressions with the Pandas once they're here I'll probably not buy from there anymore. They really have to impress me to make up for this shit. JUST SEND AN EMAIL GOD DAMN
I bought the PC37X two years ago, and I'm very interested in both the HE5XX and the PC38X, but I think I'll go for "no customer experience nightmare" next time
Sorry, this wasn't meant to be a novel but I needed to vent
DMS, you are the best. Cheers!
A proud owner of the orginal HE-500, still one of my most favourite headphone. I would cry river if mine ever break because Hifiman will never make another headphone like he HE-500 anymore.
same, lucky owning old he400, he500 and He6(6 screw version) and Hifimans EF-6 Amp !! The sound of both He500 and he6 on an EF-6 Amp is INSANE!!
i agree. best purchase i ever made by far. sold everything else except the he-500 and dt1990. both of those in the stable check all the boxes
Good to see the 3 amigos of audio reviewing same headphone within hours, good review.
It is called embargo review
@@pc_decisions8764 yes, it does have a name
It seem that you, zeos, and josh all have similarly different opinions on this headphone. I ordered one myself and can't wait to see what the fuss is about.
Only Josh didn't like them though, but that's because of his personal preference to certain sound signatures. Zeos and DMS agree about nearly all points.
@@makzniairaI don't care about what parts this headphone is made of/from. If it sounds good it sounds good and there's no doubt in my mind that I will thoroughly enjoy them. Hopefully these will be keepers in the long run.
I'm so excited for my pair to arrive, so far my only good pairs of headphones are the 6XX and the 4XX (I trust Drop a lot for some reason). I can't wait to see how it compares
@@feels5460 most drop collaborated headphones are honestly solid. 4xx, elex, 6xx, 58x, 5xx, edition xx, etc.
@@AlexanderPiercy Dear god. First impressions are not so good. They sound like they're broken.
I'd love to take a look at these and compare them to the Deva one day. Hopefully someone will send it in to my channel soon. I have the Deva, Sundara, and 400i in the house right now...
I hope that too. Your review made me want emu teak. But I'll most certainly save up and buy Ananda! ❤️
Yeah we need @InToit Reviews to break em down..Critique these bois, to their reality. Btw anyone not subbed, sub to him he's a legit reviewer that deserves more attention..
Do a hifiman Ananda review soon! ❤️
Jeez, these are now my favourite headphones... above the HD800S, Elex, 325x. What a brilliant bargain, so comfortable, exciting but smooth signature... finally found that all-rounder that is good with all the genres I listen to.
Great job. Keep up the regular review, it’s good to see these weekly vids again. Good work.
The HD650 is the midrange king under $300 but the 5xx walks all over the 600 series in terms of detail, speed, sound stage, slam, low end and treble. Detail is similar to Sundara but the 5xx has more bass and euphonic sound as opposed to clinical. I haven't heard the 560s but I doubt it beats this. Dare I say this is the best I've heard under $500?
The 560S wins on tuning by a lot and the HD650 wins on comfort/timbre. Other than that the 5XX is an amazing headphone at it's price. Love it.
I bought these to add to my collection, hoping that they would be very different from my Phoenixes (which I love, and I suspect some real unit variance in terms of how I perceive their sound with how you measured the sets you had). I was excited about the 5XX knowing full well they were a retooled Deva, if only because I could use drop points and they could be run balanced out of my dap. Excellent video, thanks for the detailed review of the sound. I love me some soundstage.
I am missing people playing keyboards in the background in your video already.
Original HE-500, one of the smoothest and least sounding headphones to land on this planet, being called shouty I find a very strange remark. It was certainly full sounding, which many referred to as 'liquid midrange' or 'holographic and engaging'. But opinions differ, as deviant as they may seem to me...
As a new person who entered the Audiophilia world (but on a budget, yeah yeah shout all you want) and just saw those AFTER I made the choice of snagging the HE4XX as comparison to my Sennheiser HD6XX and experience it myself. Love the HE4XX's but I had a bit of buyers remorse seeing the new HE-5XX on Drop... contemplated returning them right there (within 1 day) but I said, nope. These are in your collection now, so now I am trying to see if I can grab them before they're gone from Drop. Personally I love the all black look and the comfort of the HE4XX's.
First time viewer, great video! Subscribed for more useful info like this!
Hi DMS, how does this compare to the HE-4XX?
The 5XX has more treble, but it's not sharp, so it doesn't hurt your ears like it would with the 4XX. The 5XX has more bass drop off than the 4XX, but it can easily be EQ'd. I find that vocals seem less recessed in the 5XX than they are in the 4XX. The 5XX has much more Soundstage and it has much more clarity, the bass is transparent which makes some songs much easier to listen to than on the 4XX. I used the 4XX for about 10 months now, and after buying the 5XX, I'm most likely never going to use my 4XX again.
I forgot to mention build and comfort. My pair of 5XXs have very little clamp force compared to the 4XX. The 5 also feels less dense of a headphone overall, and the metals may actually be of lesser quality, but it doesn't feel cheap. The 4 feels dense and well built, but it is heavy. The 5's pads are very spacious, to the point that it almost doesn't seal on my head. The 5's pads are a lot less dense and squishy, they don't feel as quality as the 4. The 4's pads have much less room inside of the pads, in fact I have to wiggle them to sleeve my ear inside of it. The 5 is extremely light, it feels like nothing on my head compared to the 4. The light weight of the 5 makes it so much easier to wear for longer periods of time, it doesn't get uncomfortable on my head like the 4 does. The 4 tends to start to feel a little uncomfortable after about two hours but it's never annoying or unbearable.
Overall, I recommend the 5XX over the 4XX completely. However I would stay away from it if you have a smaller head, because the pads might not seal completely, in which case I would get the 4XX instead. To my ears, the 5XX sounds absolutely incredible, if not perfect, but that's my ears not yours.
@@feels5460 thanks mate 👍 I was worried they would be less punchy in the bass department, do they have much less bass then the 4XX? Or is it just the extension
@@carbon_wavelight They actually have more bass than the 4XX, it just doesn't extend super low, which again can be fixed with EQ.
Definitely a more positive review than Josh's. I like my 6xx but I'm looking to complement it with something a little brighter with more soundstage. I was leaning toward the 560s but is this more in line for what I'm looking for? Would the sundara be worth the extra dough?
I am in the same boat right now and have considered similar options. Looking at the 5xx, 4xx, and 400i as a budget planar option, the Sundara as the mid tier planar, and then possibly the DT1990 pro as the big expensive wildcard. Just not sure what will compliment the sound of the 6xx the most. 6xx is very laid back and I like that a lot, but I want something more aggressive. I've heard that's pretty much what the 1990 does perfectly but not sure if I can stomach the price....
@@AFObball13 I'm considering all those as well, except maybe the DT 1990 as that's a bit out of my price range. The sundara is a bit of a wild card, is it that much better than the 5-xx or the 560s to justify the price? I've watched so many conflicting reviews it's hard to tell. I think my plan is to just wait for Black Friday and see which one goes on sale for the best price.
FYI...Impedance doesn’t matter for Orthos. OTL may not have enough current to drive these planars
Great review. Great accent too. I've been using k7xx, now buying 5xx for $160.
Just bought a used 5xx thanx to your spot on review. Amazing what can be bought for 140€, here in Finland. From the first song I played it was obvious it is not the same Sundara, 4xx, Ananda type of sound. This is like I am listening to a small version of my first Magnepan SMGc back in 80'. Wonderfool, just sweet musical enjoyment for good , acoustic music. I tried movies too but althought all sounds come very realistic I prefer a more spectacular, fuller presentation of Onkyo A800.
Should I mention that I connected 5xx to my ifi zen can and zen blue2 via ballanced cable and that makes every note, sound so 3D like.
Thanx for this review.
P.S.
I do enjoy my HD600 with DarkVoice maybe more but that will probably change soon.
Are you comparing then to the recent recording of the Sundara or the original? I don't hear the issues you described in my pair.
Awesome review! I think I'm going to go with this since it was also recommended to me from an audio engineer friend for a $200 budget headphones. One thing I wish you expanded more on is the custom cable that you have. Looks dope, would love to get something with color other than the stock cables - since you said they also suck, lol.
Other people don't like it - DMS recommends it. Other people like it - DMS doesn't like it. I see a pattern here. Just kidding around man, thanks for the review and honest opinions.
No actually I think you're on to something. They're all shills, and those who aren't take that to far and just hate everything that others like, and like everything that others hate. Just because "ThEIr nOt ShILls"
How does it compare to HE-4XX?
Interesting, Josh Valour believes the He-400i 2020 outperforms the 5xx, but I've owned both and felt as though the 400i 2020 mids sound almost compressed in a way and I much preferred the 5xx, and agree with everything in this review. Could it be do to unit variation of 400i and I didn't give them a fair shake 🤔. Regardless, great review. Cheers
i was going for the h400i 2020 , and now I'm slightly confused
@PixelIce oh i didn't know that, shame he doesn't have the 4xx on there
the 4xx, 400i, and 400i (2020) all use the same drivers. they're the same other than the band and construction.
@@bootywink i haven't tried any,but i think I've read they have different tuning, with the 4xx being more bassy
The HE-4XX, H400i and H400i 2020 all have slightly different tuning. These headphones are more neutral sounding headphones, which some people really like. Not Sennheiser level of neutral, but somewhat close to the Sundara if that makes sense.
@@christmas_doggo5537 do you know which tuning each headphone has? i’m looking for an upgrade but i’m not sure which to get.
What about 5xx vs 4xx?
Also why do you like dual entry? I'm genuinely interested as I can't see advantages to it haha.
more balanced weight? also there isn't a wire running from one ear cup to another through the headband which could be a point of failure
Thanos : Perfectly balanced...
... As all things should be.
you can plug a balanced to 3.5mm Y cable
@@DoppiaDx The Deva is also balanced. the 3.5mm cable is TRRS
Generally I can get this argument because it opens up the option of balanced cables to use with capable balanced amps, but although the Deva has a single entry, it is wired balanced internally. I don't see an advantage either.
Would you recommend the 5xx over the ananda ?
Despite the price
DMS great vdeo. If were going to listen to primarily classical music, would you choose this or the DT880 pro since they are around the same money?
Hey DMS, great review. I've been eyeing off a DT 1990 for a brighter headphone. How do you feel this compares to that?
Hey DMS, I am glad I found your channel. Do you think these would be good for gaming? do they have pretty good imaging?
Hey, for gaming get the PC38X, they're the best in that type. If you like Beyer headphones then the TYGR 300 R also have amazing imaging and great soundstage, but very punchy bass. You can also feel comfortable plugging the Beyer's into anything, they run pretty much the same from my phone and from an amp.
Have you tried the Sundara with the 2020 earpads on it?
Well shoot. I was looking to pull the trigger on the Sundara but now I don't know. Sundara or 5XX to compliment the beginnings of my collection... I liked my 4XX a lot more than my DCA AFO RT but then I put the Dekoni Hybrid Elite pads on my AFO RT and I prefer them over the 4XX. This makes me feel I may actually prefer the 5XX to the Sundara? I have no idea.
I’m in the same position: Sundara or 5xxx? Which one to choose? Igor what’s your amp and Dac you’re using? My source is laptop or iphone.
Assuming this is the same as Deva, then Sundaras for sure. Check out Resolve's review here: th-cam.com/video/Wr05cDmXPwI/w-d-xo.html
@@sabumiah3421 Then you should go for the 5XX. Sundara "needs" / profits from more power.
@@sabumiah3421 I have an SMSL Sanskrit and a Schiit Modi Multibit for DACs and a Modius on the way. For amps I have a 789 that passes through into a Vali 2 so I can switch back and forth easily. I know the Sundara are probably a better set than the 5XX but what I don’t know is what will compliment my current collection better. 4XX, 6XX, Panda, DCA Aeon Flow Open RT, Dekoni Blue, and M50x. I don’t like the Dekoni blue, panda, and M50x, I love the Aeon (with a pad swap only) and 4XX. I appreciate the 6XX.
Need some serious help! :]
Senn HD 6xx or sundara?
Im almost always listening to rap or classical (piano and strings)
Sundara by far
Some people like the 600 series. I hated it. But take that with a grain of salt. Neutral with clear vocals my ass.
if Drop had used the he400i 2020 version (or Deva) headband, these would probably be the most sought after hifimans
Ever since drop probably murdered Sennheiser's sales that's probably why they changed the pad.
Drop finally spoke. These are NOT the same as Deva.
would you say this be a solid all-arounder? I'm looking to pick up a 2nd pair of headphones (been using a K7xx for 5 years now) I do play a lot of games (especially FPS games) but also a lot of music in general. Ive looked at the Sennheiser PC38x, but don't want to get it specifically for gaming. I also just want to try something "different" I've heard good things about Planars from audiophile friends. Do these have good spatial awareness?
Interesting review and headphone. I'm sure it's solid. But, IMHO, it does need broken down against Deva. We just wanna know, is there any difference in sound, understanding the fact that the driver and what not, is supposed to be the same, being you did check that out we heard and mention; but, then drop came out and showed a 'diagram' or picture, as if it's different..I just wanna know if it is different in sound, like any at all..
i can't wait for the pins holding the driver/cups assembly on to shear off...4xx survivor here
My 4XX has lasted fine since Late 2018.
A few months ago, after several reviews, including yours, I got the1More Triple Driver Over Ears and the FiiO BTR5. I was blown away by how much of my music ( IPod latest generation) sounded completely brand new to me. I love them. The HD560s are on top of my to get list. But after this review, I am considering these. How much of an upgrade are these over the 1More’s?
@PYXB3 thank you, I actually ended up finding the Anandas at a good price. And I got the Ifi Zen Dac, also found a good deal. I am so happy. Like hearing my favorite music for the first time. I am still really happy with the 1More, for a closed back. Thank you for he input.
Just got the Jubilee's and the 6XX. Ordering the Sundara here soon and was curious without a mic for gaming would you recommend anything other than the K7XX since those arent available right now?
K712
Any plans to review the Momentum 3s? Or can I at least get your opinion on it if not? Good stuff by the way!
Same price as DEVA too and honestly DEVA looks kind nice to me =))
I don't think the Deva can support balanced cables
I have a pair of 6XX but want another pair that has more aggressive base. At roughly this price point are these the headphones to go for?
I'd honestly pick up a schiit loki and turn up the far left nob to taste.
@@natearchuleta2003 I have an SMSL SP200 & M200 so good on that front. I ended up getting the 4XXs for $120 (well $110 after rewards)
That's killer! Congrats, my 4xx's have made me happy so far as a complement to my 6xx's ;P
Do we get to see your headphone collection?
These or Hifiman Sundara? Can't decide
Are you planning to do speaker/ studio monitor reviews? I think that would be a great point of interest to a lot of your viewers
Do you think these are more detailed than DT1990?
Not sure if you will read this.. But I've been really desperate lately in finding headphones that suit me. I've been using the 770's for a long time now and I just can't take the sibilance anymore. I'm really sensitive to siblilance. Which headphones would you recommend that have a very solid sound without harsh sibilance? Budget would be 400$ max. Hope you can help me out. Been grinding your videos lately, appreciate the content.
Sundara
Just wanted to get the Sundara but now I don't know if i rather should take theese
Do you by any chance demo / try the HE400i 2020 Edition? Curious how they'd compare.
DMS this quality bro!
Did you run the He-5xx balanced? I'm running the xduoo ta-20. Wondering if the He-5xx responds well with a balanced tube setup. Haven't found any he-5xx reviews online with a balanced tube setup yet.
I don’t run them balanced because they really don’t need the power. Single-ended amps mostly power them on low gain. OTL aside,
@@DMS3TV DMS, Dang yeah, just noticed they are 18ohms. Thanks for the heads up. Thinking I'll still pick up a pair. They might be my new headphones to run off the smartphone and dragonfly red set up. Currently using hifiman 400s with focus pads with it.
How did these fair in gaming more specifically?
Apparently these headphones have a very out-of-your-head soundstage and the treble is emphasized, so it seems like these should be amazing for gaming. I'll see if I can confirm when I get my hands on them in a week or so.
@@feels5460 Well, you had the chance to test them out?
@@denem4173 Yup! Got a pair. They are indeed amazing for gaming. The soundstage has about the same size as the HD558 (I think the 558's might be a little bit bigger?) but the 5XX has more treble and planar "effortlessness" which makes picking up small noises really easy. I completely recommend these, for both music and gaming.
@@feels5460 Nice! I am trying to choose between this and a PC38x, mainly gaming purposes as you can tell by the comparison ^^ But wouldn't say no to a great movie experience either.
Enjoy your pair!
Have you upgraded your little dot tubes yet, if so to what and review please
I was this close to buying deva but instead opted for tin p1. But after this review, I'm certainly going to but deva wired as p1 is narrow mid forward and I hope it will complement my p1 very well! ❤️
@Hersey Berry dbs tech talks is one of my favorites. He keeps it simple. We always have a long conversation in the comment section everytime he comes up with gears I'm interested in. He wasn't very positive about p1 but I bought it anyways as I found it on a very good deal. And it's because of him I have my eyes on hifiman Ananda as a potential end game.
Thank you for your suggestion. ✌️
How's the dynamic range of it? Had a 400i end up selling, for bad dynamic range
Hi Mr. D, can u sometimes include the latest issue in audio world on your content, example: coming soon headphone
I remember i had the he400. Man they were bricks but sounded amazing
I would like to listen what you think about HE400i 2020
Just waiting for the drop x hifiman Xx_sundara_xX.
Xundara
my problem with it is that it's glued to the headband and two tiny screws. Mine popped off less than a year.
Can't decide, these vs K7xx vs HDxx.
Would this be better than the 6xx for gaming? I already know that the 6xx is for me music wise.
Can you recommend a good alternative cable since the stock one is crap?
I wouldn't call these the 2020 HE-500's since I'd expect those to follow the trend of the 2020 HE-400i which has a massively better headband.
And I just bought Sundara yesterday. Now this drops. Shouldn’t be in TH-cam for months now :)
I don't think this competes with the 2020 Sundara, Watch Josh's review on this and watch the reviews of the Hifiman Deva (basically the same as this). You will see the Sundara is a significant step up.
Also watch Resolv's review which compares the Deva against Sundara: th-cam.com/video/Wr05cDmXPwI/w-d-xo.html
Sundara for detail, deva/5XX for tonality/stage.
@@DMS3TV Did you hear the latest version of the Sundara? The Tonality is much improved with the new pads as shown by Resolves measurements.
Great, thanks guys. Would you still recommend 880 600 ohm if I’ve a Sundara? I’ve decided to get the 560s and i feel a beyer will complete the setup ;) Have a K5 pro to power these but thinking to get a topping stack (e30/l30) if I’m choosing a 600 ohm beyer.
Hey, can you get your hands on the new Emotiva airmotiv GR1. I ordered it already but love to hear what you think of them if good I'm happy if bad I will return ,I trust your input . It's 399.00
Well detailed review!!
Love my Sundara!! looking for a pair to complement it!! Any suggestions from your end?
Thanks
Hey, could you review the he400i 2020 version? Like to know your opinion.
Soooo... when do you plan to bring us the review off the USB Shure SM7b?
Would you recommend this Headphone for pairing with a Pro-Ject Head Box DS2 B. (Balanced headphone amp) www.project-audio.com/en/product/head-box-ds2-b/
I was already thinking about getting at least one pair of Magnetic planar headphones, to complete my collection. (DT770 Pro 250 Ohm Closed Back, HD660 S Open Back, AKG K702 on the way, was also thinking about DT880 600 Ohm version)
Moondrop Starfield review when?
How would you compare these to the DT880 Pro 250 Ohms?
how do you like these in comparison to the 880 600 ohm?
MODHOUSE T60RP ARGONNSSSSSS!!!!
I have 6xx and 4XX. Would this make sense ?
I heard recordings, it sounds great overall.
Please review audeze lcd 4z how does it compare to the lcd 4
You commented this on 4 videos wtf
Hey DMS, you reviewed the k7xx and said that you didn't like them. Heard them too, and entirely agreed. I thought then that akg was a bad brand. Then I heard the k712 pro. Those blew me away. The vocal realism is incredible. Please review them, I really think you'd enjoy them.
Do you have an opinion of the Shure Aonic 50 bluetooth vs Ananda bluetooth?
if you could only have one would you rather the he5xx or the senn 6xx
Any where I can find the mounting rings for these headphones? They are different than the round ones with 4 clip.
HE5XX vs. Edition XX? Any thoughts or comments?
You know what? I might make a video about that. Good idea.
I mostly prefer the 5XX but the edition XX has more soundstage.
the ol' mighty dms back at it again
Based off the intro song you should listen to: H.E.R. - "I Used To Know Her" album
How is for hip-hop and metal?
I can see angry anime wifu picture the moment DMS said there is no reason for the Sivga Phoenix to exist.
uh where did you get that right angle xlr cable cuz i need one
Does the A90 work well with this one?
where can i order those custom cables?
good for gaming?
Good for movies?
re-watching this now with
Drop x HIFIMAN HE5XX . . . w/ fiio e10k
Update on how theyve been?
Can you review a gaming headphone from beyerdynamics the mmx 300
I am searching for a warm open back headphone with some bass and no sibilance for under 400 bucks. Any recommendations?
Sennheiser 660s fixed the shouty mids of previous models and Sennheiser generally rolls off treble (HD800 series an outlier though). Hifiman and Audeze can be a little peaky to sensitive ears....all of this from what I've read, though. I only own the LCD-1, not the other models, and that can be a bit hot on poppy compressed music.
If you have an amp the 6xx or 660s should be on your list. Maybe even look at the HD599 and HD560s...which is meant to be a new standard.
When I checked reviews the Deva was meant to be warm too? Might want to double check on that, supposed to sound sweeter than the Sundara from some accounts.
@@loganpreshaw4430 I can't decide between hd 6xx/650, the 660s and the 58x
@@Fischi29 6XX if you have an amp or plan on getting one. 58X if you don't.
@@Fischi29 To add on top of what Bradford said, the 650 has a midrange shout and is not very efficient. The 660s fixes this but requires an amp.
I don’t know much about the 58x but sounds like that’s your best option if you’re looking for efficiency ;)
PLEASE DO 660S VS 6XX
How would these double as a gaming headset?
Pretty good
Hey, i need help in choosing my next headphone pair.
I currently have the m40x for 4 years.
I'm in search for under 200 dollars headphone, with good soundstage and bass.
Something fun, i'm not monitoring or anything like that, and I listen to mostly to rap, rock, vocals and casual pip hop.
I have another 100 dollars for amp to pair if needed.
Any suggestions anyone?
Does anyone know if there are multiple iterations of this? I bought my pair about two months ago and the metal pieces on the headphones are dark metallic colored and it appears his are painted black. Do we know if the paint is the only difference?
The 5XX hasn’t been out 2 months.. it’s only been out about a week.
@@DMS3TV gotcha. I have the 4xx. Not 5xx.