squarespace.com/cheapaudioman 10% off a website/domain using code CHEAPAUDIOMAN Phillips SHP9500 amzn.to/3Gu8HMI --Hifiman Edition XS amzn.to/3ah1SlI ----www.patreon.com/cheapaudioman -----Tidal Deal bit.ly/3siuqSF -------Crutchfield shop-links.co/cguPK8XEGmt --------Best Buy Deals shop-links.co/cf9yDZeYtUH -------amzn.to/3GkNaop ------CAM Store (New Products!) bit.ly/30Lgu4K -----apos.audio?sca_ref=552340.TY98BPcZ6P ---massdrop.7eer.net/qnOye5 -Amazon Unlimited Music and Disney Plus Free Trial amzn.to/3DRAVj9
At 7:12 you're wearing the 9500 backwards. At 8:07 again you're wearing the 9500 backwards. With many headphones swapping left and right is irrelevant to the sound quality but the 9500 has angled drivers, so wearing them backwards will absolutely have a detrimental effect. The resulting sound will likely seem "veiled". The giant 'L' and 'R' on the ear cups may help determine proper orientation.
Yet another hilarious ad. Man, the “break in” ads are an awesome idea. You can have a lot of fun with these, and they are super memorable for you and your sponsor.
Randy, the earpads snap off. They are the weak point on the 9500s. Mod House sells snap-on rings for these that you can then use with large ZMF and other pads. Doubles the overall investment, but with better pads they sound much better, you can choose different pads for different sounds, and they're deeper so your ears don't touch at all.
I bought mine for $55 dollars before the price went up. For music I'd probably buy something else if I was going to wind up spending over $100. My original pads eventually separated from the foam on the inside. Replaces once with Shure pads on the stock rings. Replaced again with some Transtek pads that had their own ring. It would have been nice if the 9600s could use the same pads as the 9500s, probably would have bought a pair to try it if they did.
I've had my 9500 for some 2 years. Got it later because wanted the hype to mellow down (those early HD800 comparisons 😆). Despite having "better" gear, I still come back to this set every now and then. Besides music, I attach a v-moda boom pro on the 9500 and use it for video calls. It is easy to change the pads. Look for Misodiko pads for the 9500 as these already have the adapters built with each pad to install on the headphone. There are 4 pads - Protein Leather, Mesh, Cooling Gel, and Velour. Skip the velour as it made the 9500 sound horrible. Mesh has the closest sound to the stock pads.
I just received these headphones from Amazon. The audio quality blows me away! I live in Ecuador and was able to have them shipped directly to my address. They arrived in a week, and were duty free. I couldn't be happier. Thanks for recommending these Randy!
Great review of some really affordable headphones. I have had the SHP-9600 for a long time and love them, for $75 I may have to pick these up to compare. Thanks Randy
@@ChillToMusic87 pretty awesome especially with movies. U can hear podcasts or songs for too long and still not feel any discomfort in the ear. The audio feels smooth. overall very nice .
Hey Randster, I spent alot less money last year on a purchase of headphones and I am happier than I have ever been. I was never much a fan of Edifier until I bought their H880 headphones. Striking to look at, extremely well built, heavy duty aluminum band and hinges, very comfy thick padded cups, 40 mms, thick 8.5 ft cord and 3 ft cord with heavy gauge gold plated connectors. A tad hefty but very neutral sound. All for $89 on sale. Oh yeah I am happy.
Just ordered the SHP9600/00 from Walmart basis this review. My Sennheiser's from my college days are long gone, tostada, poof, in the dump somewhere no doubt - and i damn well miss them! I DO ENJOY your quirky humor and your shows, Randy. Remind me of my late great brother from NorCal, who gladly spent over 30k on a HiFi system for the home when he force to rebuild it after his home was burned to ashes in Shasta California. He loved his good sounds too. Peace out Brother.
I mean, I like the audio content... but Im really here for the comedy and sense of humor! The Squarespace ad is by far the best one Ive seen. Love your Schiit on this channel Randy.
I love the 9500s, they're so comfortable and sound good. I have other, more expensive cans that sound a little better but I can wear the 9500s all day (added a mic for work) and still wear them at night for gaming. I've had the same pair for I think 8 years, build quality is just fine for me.
You can snap off the stock earpads and "deconstruct" them but they have adhesive rings that are a PITA. Did that with mine, and put on Brainwavz XL in natural leather, huge improvement. Thicker and better seal (I had the same complaint as you about the pads not having enough relief for your ear), and you can clean off the Sith Audio Face Grease regularly.
Randy, in all seriousness, you are on to something with the skits, they are hilarious! I wouldn't be surprised at all if Companies started approaching you to do TH-cam ads for them. This might open a whole new door for you. Awesome work!!!!
Fantastic everything as usual Randy! Both of these headphones are on my short list so it's nice to see the CAMparison between the 2. Thanks again and I hope to see more headphone content here and there, even tho I know they don't do as well as other vids...
I have the Philips X2HRs, and the Ananda Stealth Edition is on order. I like the X2HR a lot but looking forward to getting a planar set and for good value. (Ananda is $399 USD from HiFiMan right now as they clear out for the Ananda Nano which is the latest version for $599).
That pink shirt was **chef's kiss** And @ 10:47 that's a great way to get around the copyright lawyers lol. I was looking at this and the 9600 above it but I ended up getting the Sennheiser HD 560S.
I have the Edition XS - they are great. Clear and big, open sound. Quite different, in a good way, if you're used to closed back headphones. A no brainer purchase if you're looking at ~$500 headphones. I was wanting to add a Hifiman to my collection and was considering the Anada and even the Arya. After watching/reading enough reviews, I think the XS have scratched my Hifiman itch - no need to go higher up their line IMHO.
Loved you video and I confirm, Philips (one L) branded headphone can be absolute winners in their category. I'm uing my A1-pro DJ-headphones for a couple of years. Other than replacing the ear-cushions and cabe, no issues! And I really dig the big R and L, so practical.
Thanks so much for making this video, showcasing the SHP-9500 and how good some cheap headphones can be, for the price. After months of doing homework, I opted for these for gaming and for work. I paired these with the V-Moda Boom Mic Pro (another $25USD). Hands down the best all-around headset for this price point. My supervisor at work was blown away by the audio quality of them. We have company issued Plantronics headsets that I flat out refused to even try. After hearing the audio quality, the supervisor said he'd never bug me about using my personal stuff again. The mic is excellent, too, by the way.
@@BoondockSaintRyan I've been using my SHP 9500s for several years now and they're the best headphones I've had. Although I have heard some headphones and they do leave me wanting to upgrade eventually. But for under a hundred bucks it's a no-brainer not to get those Phillips headphones
Finally!! Some gear that I actually own! Love my 9500's and can also recommend the Superlux HD681's for great sound for cheap. I've got good HiFi gear (Yamaha & KEF) but haven't moved into higher end portable yet, specifically planar. I can imagine the clarity you're talking about but the 9500's and HD681's are doing great for over ears and the Moondrop Aria's are doing great as IEM's, for now.... Thanks Randy, keep up the great work.
I bought the SHP-9500s shortly after lockdown for gaming of all things. They have a jack to accept a mic, and can easily be driven by an xbox controller. They blew my mind, and are the reason I started looking into my music listening gear more critically. (i.e. they initially cost me $75, but resulted in me wanting better quality in everything else. And that cost much more...)hey blew my mind, and are the reason I started looking into my music listening gear more critically. (i.e. they initially cost me $75, but resulted in me wanting better quality in everything else. And that cost much more...) I just bought a pair for a friend who is laid up in a hospital bed and has some time on his hands...
Hey randy i was so close to buyimg either the pontius or holo spring after watching your review i decided to try a aresii instead. thank you for great content
i'm a tall bloke with a big head and philips is the only manufacturer to make a pair of over ear headphones i can wear indefinitely with no discomfort. life changing. love the SHP9500s but the X2HRs are one of my most prized possessions.
Depending on what DAC/amp combo you use, the HiFiman HE400SE's might serve you better. If you have an iFi Zen combo on your desk, go for the HE400SE, and use the Truebass, or Xbass button, At some point, you will want a 4.4mm balanced cable for them. Of all the the models mentioned here, I use the X2HR the most often. There are some choice leather earpads available for the X2HR from Dekoni Audio as well, if you want that bourbon sipping sound profile. I think I paid $40 for them. The earpads just twist and snap on, and off.
I bought the Philips X2HR Fidelio's (older version, not the current ones) for $140 AU on sale ($100 US equivalent) and they sound better than basically anything under $600 I've ever heard. EDIT: Sorry Randy, you obviously know them... since you mentioned that you had them.
Funny because I have these two headphones, Philips is good but for sure the XS is better. But the cable of the XS is very very short ! I don’t understand why they don’t have a longer one. What cable do you use with the XS ?
SHP9500 require EQ, the bass is anemic otherwise. With EQ they are a bang for a buck. The build is OK, but with time you're gonna feel why they are cheap - squiky plastic statred to get on my nerves and I barely use them now.
I personally went with the Shp9600 over the Shp9500 and for me the 9600 had a little more punch in the bass / sub-bass regions a touch more in the mids and less sibilance. But everyone is different
I have and use the 9500s. When I wanted to upgrade from the bottom tier AT's, I auditioned EVERY headphone I could (local big box stores, no audio shop within 200 miles) all set up with a "canned" displays. Most sounded for crap other that did sound acceptable were well out of the range of my budget. (one set of $200 headphones even vibrated to the bass (those dang near got thrown on the floor) Nothing was to my liking (at least not at a price point I was willing to pay) SO I read reviews and the 9500s got the best reviews I figured 60 ttd wouldn't hurt if they weren't good. Well they are good Yes the sound is a bit colored and the soundstage narrower than some (more expensive phones) but I love mine until I win the lottery they will be what I listen through (when the speakers are off)
Hello i am Cristian....i wonder if you can compare the cabasse antigua mc170 with elac uni fi ub52... Both are three way speakers.thanks....and maybe with wharfedale evo 4.2. .....thanks
Very relevant video for me as I intend to buy some headphones in the next couple of weeks. I was fancying the new Rode ones at £140 but this has given me something else to consider.
What do you think of the old Pioneer SE-205 phones? A friend gave me a pair almost NOS.. the foam between driver grates and ears is falling apart.. have not tried em, not a headphoner.
I'm not sure why you're saying the shp's mids are recessed because mine do a fantastic job with mids. The only part that needs a bit of an eq boost is the bass.
If you EQ the SHP's you can get enough bass to tickle your ears, it will drop pretty low once accentuated. The driver capacity for movement once they are broken in is astounding and the bass can be pretty intense. The XS is my main headphone which also can be equed into a gentlemen's bass monster in a tuxedo without loosing detail and presence. Both are great but the XS is exceptional, by far the best overall headphone product I have ever owned. XS has a break in time, they sounded horrible and thin as well as the diaphragm of the Planar buzzing when I first got them. I was stressed out. Now I enjoy them everyday and have hundreds of hours on them inside of three months.
I want the Hifiman Edition XS sooooo bad. Question: I don't have a headphone amp. Will an iPhone dongle DAC drive the Hifiman Edition XS? I'm gonna get a DAC/amp asap, but I'm going get the headphones first. Thanks, brother!!
It will, but soundstage and dynamics won’t open up if you don’t amp them properly. They will still sound good tho, just not to their full potential as they scale extremely well. I use a vintage Sony amp that’s designed to drive low impedance headphones as well as high impedance. I chose to use my Alpha & Delta MK2 dongle dac into my iPad Pro which has better bass and separation between instruments.
Randy, sounds like you need a security system sponsor… :) Funny stuff but I listened to every word; sponsor should be happy. Some of my first audio products and (I think) my first TV was a Phillips. Mass production but some decent stuff when affordability is a must. Would there have been a more pronounced difference if you weren’t using a DAC or still similar differences?
Hi Randy, I have a suggestion for a review. What maybe the greatest bargain in sound reproduction. its just a radio. The Retekess V115. I think it sounds amazing for only forty bucks or less. The thing has a bass port, that actually works.
Switching to higher end headphone, esp planars (I have Sundaras and Anandas) is a huge step up in sound. But as you state, you will need amplification. Plus they are much less forgiving in equipment and source material.
How about an even cheaper headphone contender that's a couple years old now like the MSI DS502 Gaming Headset and what are your thoughts on a Daily driver headphone for long periods at the Computer desk. Thanks.
Hi newcomer (and very ignorant guy) here: I was running a FiiO BTR3K + Koss Porta Pro for casual listening but my porta pros gave up so I was wondering if you could suggest any other good headphones in that $ range? I mostly listen to metal, but also some hip-hop and raggae. Obviously not looking for BT.
I bought the SHP9600 in February. I don’t know how they compare to the 9500’s but they have been the gateway drug for me. Until then, headphones were a crapshoot. You got a pair and they sucked or they were okay and you used them until they broke. Lather, rinse, repeat. Then I got these and they were so easy to listen to. It made me want to listen to music all the time. Then I subscribed to Michael from Düsseldorf and Mazzy from Seattle via SF. Then TH-cam suggested some dude who was sort of making fun of audiophiles but was still an audiophile. Several months later I have purchased a pair of Sony SS CS5s, an ifi Zen DAC and a Fluance RT81 (with the Audiotechnica ATN95 E not the Ortophon Blue because, baby steps). In a few years I expect that I will have moved beyond what I’m currently enjoying. But I’m probably not going to buy a boat or an RV so I guess this is going to be my thing.
I'm glad to see that these sound decent and will run out of anything. I've just been looking for a pair of relatively cheap headphones that hit above their weight class. these seem like something I would love to try. gonna get a pair soon 🤞
Thanks for talking to us wankers in the cheap seats. My first headphone was the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro. Having no experience with headphones at all, I thought the sennis were the best I would ever be able to afford. I wish I had kept that attitude. All they did was forcefully push me down the headphone rabbit hole. I ended up auditioning headphones for 5 months, returning one to order another to find what I wanted. I watched your video on the Airmotiv GR1s and long story short, that became my one daily driver...aside from some Moondrop Starfields I received as a birthday present. My final decision was between the GR1s and the Sundaras, and I opted for the GR1s....they were the most fun of the two. I don't claim to be an audiophile. All I know is what I like, and having owned headphones that cost just under two thousand dollars, I still have the Airmotivs. Sometimes, good enough is just good enough. I decided I did not have to have kilobuck headphones to identify as an audiophile. Seems way to many people do just that,
I grabbed the Moukeys a couple months ago based on his recommendation along with the FX-D01 and A07. Really fun setup for my desk. For your gym, consider jamo s803s at $130 - they can crank.
I have had the Fidelio l2s for quite a long while. Changed the pads on them once to a little thicker set, still sound great. A little brighter than the 9500, but I prefer that myself.
Rocking L2's here since 2017 lol. They are far from perfect but they are fun and good quality. Looking to upgrade from them and considering the X2s, X3s or even risk it all on a Hifiman and go planar. I just fear Hifiman's quality and durability so much... they are too expensive for the amount of complains they have about drivers going bad after 1/2 years of use, snapping headbands etc. I just don't trust them anywhere near enough
I've owned two pairs of Grado SR80e's and I really enjoyed them but I grew tired of shelling out $100 a year or two later due to their horrible cheapo cable set-up. I picked up a set of 9500's on Amazon six months ago for $45 and I certainly can't complain since I felt I stole them for $45. That being said, if I'm being honest with myself I have to admit I miss the Grado's...just better sound all around. Why Grado's don't come with a detachable cable is a mystery since that's my main gripe with them. It's a weak point which could easily be remedied.
@@hondaphan4172 Haven't had a problem with the cable yet. Had to replace the ear pads though because they wore out but I'v had them for like 15 years. I wonder how much better the 80s sound than the 60s though.
The Philips would be perfect and they do so many things right, just if they weren’t so extra sibilant, some songs are just unlistenable, vocals, hi hats Sss sss sss ouch. And the material on the cups is super irritating. AKG K240s are way better all round, I can listen all day.
I think that you're really overlooking one particular headphone and that's the Drop's Sennheiser ($160 4/8/23) HD 58X which is a better headphone and you can run it literally off of anything, super easy to drive. Just saying.
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Phillips SHP9500 amzn.to/3Gu8HMI
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These new adds are hilarious. Congrats on getting some paying sponsors!
At 7:12 you're wearing the 9500 backwards. At 8:07 again you're wearing the 9500 backwards. With many headphones swapping left and right is irrelevant to the sound quality but the 9500 has angled drivers, so wearing them backwards will absolutely have a detrimental effect. The resulting sound will likely seem "veiled". The giant 'L' and 'R' on the ear cups may help determine proper orientation.
😂🤣
Always my first stop in the morning for my daily pick-me-up. You brighten the airwaves. Great job, Sir.
Yea we
Randy, your sponsorship "commercials" are hilarious. They give me a chuckle. Your talents are boundless sir.
Yet another hilarious ad. Man, the “break in” ads are an awesome idea. You can have a lot of fun with these, and they are super memorable for you and your sponsor.
Randy, the earpads snap off. They are the weak point on the 9500s. Mod House sells snap-on rings for these that you can then use with large ZMF and other pads. Doubles the overall investment, but with better pads they sound much better, you can choose different pads for different sounds, and they're deeper so your ears don't touch at all.
I bought mine for $55 dollars before the price went up. For music I'd probably buy something else if I was going to wind up spending over $100. My original pads eventually separated from the foam on the inside. Replaces once with Shure pads on the stock rings. Replaced again with some Transtek pads that had their own ring. It would have been nice if the 9600s could use the same pads as the 9500s, probably would have bought a pair to try it if they did.
you CAN also get the rings 3d printed for cheap just so you can use even more pads if you really want to
Lmao my earpads for the shp9500 just snapped now I’m looking for a better headphones
@@onepieceatatime dang it! I wish I knew that. Mine snapped off and I just threw them out yesterday
I've had my 9500 for some 2 years. Got it later because wanted the hype to mellow down (those early HD800 comparisons 😆). Despite having "better" gear, I still come back to this set every now and then. Besides music, I attach a v-moda boom pro on the 9500 and use it for video calls. It is easy to change the pads. Look for Misodiko pads for the 9500 as these already have the adapters built with each pad to install on the headphone. There are 4 pads - Protein Leather, Mesh, Cooling Gel, and Velour. Skip the velour as it made the 9500 sound horrible. Mesh has the closest sound to the stock pads.
The Phillips fidelio x2hr, destroys the 9500
I wish if I read you comment before I ordered the velour pads. They made the sound very muffled
thanks for this. if my pads ever give out I'll look at getting the mesh pads. breathability is the utmost priority to me, as coming from IEMs
I just received these headphones from Amazon. The audio quality blows me away! I live in Ecuador and was able to have them shipped directly to my address. They arrived in a week, and were duty free. I couldn't be happier. Thanks for recommending these Randy!
The ad was hilarious! The review? Perfect!
Great review of some really affordable headphones. I have had the SHP-9600 for a long time and love them, for $75 I may have to pick these up to compare. Thanks Randy
i just ordered the 9600 . will arrive in 2 weeks
@@josaphcj7199 What are your opinions on the 9600?
@@ChillToMusic87 pretty awesome especially with movies. U can hear podcasts or songs for too long and still not feel any discomfort in the ear. The audio feels smooth. overall very nice .
Hey Randster, I spent alot less money last year on a purchase of headphones and I am happier than I have ever been. I was never much a fan of Edifier until I bought their H880 headphones. Striking to look at, extremely well built, heavy duty aluminum band and hinges, very comfy thick padded cups, 40 mms, thick 8.5 ft cord and 3 ft cord with heavy gauge gold plated connectors. A tad hefty but very neutral sound. All for $89 on sale. Oh yeah I am happy.
Squarespace can be proud of you. Best advertisement they can get.
"Binge listen instead"
Now those are some words of wisdom
Just ordered the SHP9600/00 from Walmart basis this review. My Sennheiser's from my college days are long gone, tostada, poof, in the dump somewhere no doubt - and i damn well miss them! I DO ENJOY your quirky humor and your shows, Randy. Remind me of my late great brother from NorCal, who gladly spent over 30k on a HiFi system for the home when he force to rebuild it after his home was burned to ashes in Shasta California. He loved his good sounds too. Peace out Brother.
I mean, I like the audio content... but Im really here for the comedy and sense of humor! The Squarespace ad is by far the best one Ive seen. Love your Schiit on this channel Randy.
I love the 9500s, they're so comfortable and sound good. I have other, more expensive cans that sound a little better but I can wear the 9500s all day (added a mic for work) and still wear them at night for gaming. I've had the same pair for I think 8 years, build quality is just fine for me.
The Phillips fidelio x2hr, destroys the 9500
@@bradhuskers sundaras destroy the x2hr
@@Benri05
Sundara is too treble focused. Tinny thin sound.
X2hr blows it away.
@@bradhuskers treble = ultra monster intergalactic supreme galactus, therefore sundara decimates x2hr
@@Benri05
What about warmth?
You can snap off the stock earpads and "deconstruct" them but they have adhesive rings that are a PITA. Did that with mine, and put on Brainwavz XL in natural leather, huge improvement. Thicker and better seal (I had the same complaint as you about the pads not having enough relief for your ear), and you can clean off the Sith Audio Face Grease regularly.
Randy, in all seriousness, you are on to something with the skits, they are hilarious! I wouldn't be surprised at all if Companies started approaching you to do TH-cam ads for them.
This might open a whole new door for you. Awesome work!!!!
Han they’re a lot of fun
Fantastic everything as usual Randy! Both of these headphones are on my short list so it's nice to see the CAMparison between the 2. Thanks again and I hope to see more headphone content here and there, even tho I know they don't do as well as other vids...
I have both and both are great.
The 80's called, they want their pink polo shirt with the popped collar brought back immediately
I have the Philips X2HRs, and the Ananda Stealth Edition is on order. I like the X2HR a lot but looking forward to getting a planar set and for good value.
(Ananda is $399 USD from HiFiMan right now as they clear out for the Ananda Nano which is the latest version for $599).
How do you like the Anandas?
That's funny I saw this video and I looked over and saw my SHP9500's chilling out on my bookshelf.
I use the shp 9500s with a mod mic for a gaming headset. Can’t beat it imo.
Same but after a few years and getting a proper dac amp I kinda want to upgrade
That pink shirt was **chef's kiss** And @ 10:47 that's a great way to get around the copyright lawyers lol. I was looking at this and the 9600 above it but I ended up getting the Sennheiser HD 560S.
I have the Edition XS - they are great. Clear and big, open sound. Quite different, in a good way, if you're used to closed back headphones. A no brainer purchase if you're looking at ~$500 headphones. I was wanting to add a Hifiman to my collection and was considering the Anada and even the Arya. After watching/reading enough reviews, I think the XS have scratched my Hifiman itch - no need to go higher up their line IMHO.
Summs up how good Hifiman do sound. Good as it gets but not really needed to go any higher.
i also decided to XS, ananda is not much price diffrence in my country around 100 dolars but from freview XS sounds mch better
FYI-->
L = LOUD
R = RIGHTEOUS
Could you recommend a good upgrade cable for the Edition XS?
Loved you video and I confirm, Philips (one L) branded headphone can be absolute winners in their category.
I'm uing my A1-pro DJ-headphones for a couple of years. Other than replacing the ear-cushions and cabe, no issues! And I really dig the big R and L, so practical.
SHP9500 and the EarStudio ES100 were my entry into portable/desktop audio. I have moved on since of course, but I still have the SHPs :)
I have them both.
Both of them are great for their price.
The only thing that you won't like about the 9500 is the lack of bass
Thanks so much for making this video, showcasing the SHP-9500 and how good some cheap headphones can be, for the price. After months of doing homework, I opted for these for gaming and for work. I paired these with the V-Moda Boom Mic Pro (another $25USD). Hands down the best all-around headset for this price point.
My supervisor at work was blown away by the audio quality of them. We have company issued Plantronics headsets that I flat out refused to even try. After hearing the audio quality, the supervisor said he'd never bug me about using my personal stuff again. The mic is excellent, too, by the way.
@@BoondockSaintRyan I've been using my SHP 9500s for several years now and they're the best headphones I've had. Although I have heard some headphones and they do leave me wanting to upgrade eventually. But for under a hundred bucks it's a no-brainer not to get those Phillips headphones
I have the Philips,make it work 100 hours at least,and you will really enjoy their sound completely,even connected to the Ipad.
Finally!! Some gear that I actually own! Love my 9500's and can also recommend the Superlux HD681's for great sound for cheap.
I've got good HiFi gear (Yamaha & KEF) but haven't moved into higher end portable yet, specifically planar. I can imagine the clarity you're talking about but the 9500's and HD681's are doing great for over ears and the Moondrop Aria's are doing great as IEM's, for now....
Thanks Randy, keep up the great work.
I bought the SHP-9500s shortly after lockdown for gaming of all things. They have a jack to accept a mic, and can easily be driven by an xbox controller. They blew my mind, and are the reason I started looking into my music listening gear more critically. (i.e. they initially cost me $75, but resulted in me wanting better quality in everything else. And that cost much more...)hey blew my mind, and are the reason I started looking into my music listening gear more critically. (i.e. they initially cost me $75, but resulted in me wanting better quality in everything else. And that cost much more...) I just bought a pair for a friend who is laid up in a hospital bed and has some time on his hands...
Hey randy i was so close to buyimg either the pontius or holo spring after watching your review i decided to try a aresii instead. thank you for great content
Genius advert and such a pleasure to watch
Another great find! This would make a great gift for $75.
Does anybody else just invert audio from the source for headphones that have a big L and R on the sides just so you can wear them backwards?
What cable are you using with the XS? I'm guessing it's a good one and I rather like the red.
i'm a tall bloke with a big head and philips is the only manufacturer to make a pair of over ear headphones i can wear indefinitely with no discomfort. life changing. love the SHP9500s but the X2HRs are one of my most prized possessions.
I've been looking at the Phillips x2hr over those or the sivga robin. Still hung .
Depending on what DAC/amp combo you use, the HiFiman HE400SE's might serve you better. If you have an iFi Zen combo on your desk, go for the HE400SE, and use the Truebass, or Xbass button, At some point, you will want a 4.4mm balanced cable for them. Of all the the models mentioned here, I use the X2HR the most often. There are some choice leather earpads available for the X2HR from Dekoni Audio as well, if you want that bourbon sipping sound profile. I think I paid $40 for them. The earpads just twist and snap on, and off.
I really like Hart Audio Cables for headphone cable upgrades.
Another great review CAM.
Confirmed. Hart Audio cables are awesome.
My edition XS I wore were hart cables attached
@@cheapaudioman were you a boomer? Fast Attack?
@@stevespanaway2344 boomer. SSBN 733 Nevada
@@cheapaudioman I was a CVN 73 Skittle. Thank you for your service. I’ve heard plenty of boomer horror stories. Most involve ex wives!
I bought the Philips X2HR Fidelio's (older version, not the current ones) for $140 AU on sale ($100 US equivalent) and they sound better than basically anything under $600 I've ever heard.
EDIT: Sorry Randy, you obviously know them... since you mentioned that you had them.
Wait, R is for left? And L is right? Man I’ve been doing it wrong. Lol
Finally someone got that joke
Funny because I have these two headphones, Philips is good but for sure the XS is better. But the cable of the XS is very very short ! I don’t understand why they don’t have a longer one. What cable do you use with the XS ?
You even make the commercials enjoyable. Awesome!
I love my SHP9500 added the bluetooth adapter and it is perfect only the fabric should have been soft rubber for sweating
Would you share the format of the songs you are testing with? Online streaming, Flac, or CD? What is the bitrate, etc.?
SHP9500 require EQ, the bass is anemic otherwise. With EQ they are a bang for a buck. The build is OK, but with time you're gonna feel why they are cheap - squiky plastic statred to get on my nerves and I barely use them now.
Where did you get the concert posters behind you?
I had the same problem with Grado RS1i, my left ear touch the driver but right ear didn’t drove me crazy 😂
I personally went with the Shp9600 over the Shp9500 and for me the 9600 had a little more punch in the bass / sub-bass regions a touch more in the mids and less sibilance. But everyone is different
The Phillips fidelio x2hr, destroys them both
I have and use the 9500s. When I wanted to upgrade from the bottom tier AT's, I auditioned EVERY headphone I could (local big box stores, no audio shop within 200 miles) all set up with a "canned" displays. Most sounded for crap other that did sound acceptable were well out of the range of my budget. (one set of $200 headphones even vibrated to the bass (those dang near got thrown on the floor) Nothing was to my liking (at least not at a price point I was willing to pay) SO I read reviews and the 9500s got the best reviews I figured 60 ttd wouldn't hurt if they weren't good. Well they are good Yes the sound is a bit colored and the soundstage narrower than some (more expensive phones) but I love mine until I win the lottery they will be what I listen through (when the speakers are off)
Hello i am Cristian....i wonder if you can compare the cabasse antigua mc170 with elac uni fi ub52... Both are three way speakers.thanks....and maybe with wharfedale evo 4.2. .....thanks
Great review man, have any plan to review hifiman r9??
Very relevant video for me as I intend to buy some headphones in the next couple of weeks. I was fancying the new Rode ones at £140 but this has given me something else to consider.
Maybe the best ad ever
What do you think of the old Pioneer SE-205 phones? A friend gave me a pair almost NOS.. the foam between driver grates and ears is falling apart.. have not tried em, not a headphoner.
I'm not sure why you're saying the shp's mids are recessed because mine do a fantastic job with mids. The only part that needs a bit of an eq boost is the bass.
If you EQ the SHP's you can get enough bass to tickle your ears, it will drop pretty low once accentuated. The driver capacity for movement once they are broken in is astounding and the bass can be pretty intense. The XS is my main headphone which also can be equed into a gentlemen's bass monster in a tuxedo without loosing detail and presence. Both are great but the XS is exceptional, by far the best overall headphone product I have ever owned. XS has a break in time, they sounded horrible and thin as well as the diaphragm of the Planar buzzing when I first got them. I was stressed out. Now I enjoy them everyday and have hundreds of hours on them inside of three months.
As an owner of an edition xs I can confirm they sounded thin at first but it disappeared after a couple days
R for left and L for right. Got it
Hey All , would the JDS Atom Amp+ in your opion would be enough to power the Hifiman Edition XS?
I want the Hifiman Edition XS sooooo bad.
Question:
I don't have a headphone amp. Will an iPhone dongle DAC drive the Hifiman Edition XS? I'm gonna get a DAC/amp asap, but I'm going get the headphones first. Thanks, brother!!
It will, but soundstage and dynamics won’t open up if you don’t amp them properly. They will still sound good tho, just not to their full potential as they scale extremely well. I use a vintage Sony amp that’s designed to drive low impedance headphones as well as high impedance. I chose to use my Alpha & Delta MK2 dongle dac into my iPad Pro which has better bass and separation between instruments.
Hi!! I'm choosing a good headphone for listen soundtracks (bso films). Could you make some recommendations under 1000€?
Thanks.
How do you think the XS compares to the HD 560S?
Again a video from the man .Got the tracking and stuff should be here by the 2nd your channel sweeps the floor with the others
How do the Phillips compare to DT 770 Pro/990 Pro?
They don't have ear piercing treble which makes them instantly better.
That advertisement skit was hilarious!!!!
I think I'm going to get a pair of XS's. Having a hard time deciding between the XS's or Ananda's.
XS. Say no more!
I was wondering how many hours you have used both sets for and do you think the Philips would sound better after some hours of playback?
Hi chat, if i want too replacement for my beyerdynamic custom one pro that i use for heavy metal. What 200-500 headphones are recommended?
Randy, sounds like you need a security system sponsor… :) Funny stuff but I listened to every word; sponsor should be happy.
Some of my first audio products and (I think) my first TV was a Phillips. Mass production but some decent stuff when affordability is a must. Would there have been a more pronounced difference if you weren’t using a DAC or still similar differences?
Hi Randy, I have a suggestion for a review. What maybe the greatest bargain in sound reproduction. its just a radio. The Retekess V115. I think it sounds amazing for only forty bucks or less. The thing has a bass port, that actually works.
this maybe the first vid ive seen that deems shp9500 mids as veiled and have soundstage similar to closed back
Switching to higher end headphone, esp planars (I have Sundaras and Anandas) is a huge step up in sound. But as you state, you will need amplification. Plus they are much less forgiving in equipment and source material.
How about an even cheaper headphone contender that's a couple years old now like the MSI DS502 Gaming Headset and what are your thoughts on a Daily driver headphone for long periods at the Computer desk. Thanks.
Great video, but I gotta be honest, ad read part is bad tho.
Thank you.all I have learned I lot from you .cheers mate.the real cheapaudioman.😊.
Thank you!
Hi newcomer (and very ignorant guy) here: I was running a FiiO BTR3K + Koss Porta Pro for casual listening but my porta pros gave up so I was wondering if you could suggest any other good headphones in that $ range? I mostly listen to metal, but also some hip-hop and raggae. Obviously not looking for BT.
If you want a similar sound signature to SHP9500, then I recommend AKG M220 Pro, but I think Creative Aurvana Live! is the better all-rounder.
I bought the SHP9600 in February. I don’t know how they compare to the 9500’s but they have been the gateway drug for me. Until then, headphones were a crapshoot. You got a pair and they sucked or they were okay and you used them until they broke. Lather, rinse, repeat. Then I got these and they were so easy to listen to. It made me want to listen to music all the time. Then I subscribed to Michael from Düsseldorf and Mazzy from Seattle via SF. Then TH-cam suggested some dude who was sort of making fun of audiophiles but was still an audiophile. Several months later I have purchased a pair of Sony SS CS5s, an ifi Zen DAC and a Fluance RT81 (with the Audiotechnica ATN95 E not the Ortophon Blue because, baby steps). In a few years I expect that I will have moved beyond what I’m currently enjoying. But I’m probably not going to buy a boat or an RV so I guess this is going to be my thing.
I'm glad to see that these sound decent and will run out of anything.
I've just been looking for a pair of relatively cheap headphones that hit above their weight class. these seem like something I would love to try. gonna get a pair soon 🤞
Normally during Summer Black Friday, Amazon sells these for $50 and their slighter better brother, the 9600 for $75.
I’m curious how the cheap Philips differ from the higher end Philips phones. They look almost identical but one is $250.
The XS sound incredible!
Thanks for talking to us wankers in the cheap seats. My first headphone was the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro. Having no experience with headphones at all, I thought the sennis were the best I would ever be able to afford. I wish I had kept that attitude. All they did was forcefully push me down the headphone rabbit hole.
I ended up auditioning headphones for 5 months, returning one to order another to find what I wanted. I watched your video on the Airmotiv GR1s and long story short, that became my one daily driver...aside from some Moondrop Starfields I received as a birthday present. My final decision was between the GR1s and the Sundaras, and I opted for the GR1s....they were the most fun of the two. I don't claim to be an audiophile. All I know is what I like, and having owned headphones that cost just under two thousand dollars, I still have the Airmotivs. Sometimes, good enough is just good enough. I decided I did not have to have kilobuck headphones to identify as an audiophile. Seems way to many people do just that,
Hey rando whats a cheap speaker i could pair with fosi Bt20a for my karate gym?
Available in canada
Maybe the Micca rb42 or moukey 2 or 3 way
@@cheapaudioman thanks Rando freaking love you sir
I grabbed the Moukeys a couple months ago based on his recommendation along with the FX-D01 and A07. Really fun setup for my desk. For your gym, consider jamo s803s at $130 - they can crank.
Bought a new 9500 for $40
4xx>9500
I have had the Fidelio l2s for quite a long while. Changed the pads on them once to a little thicker set, still sound great. A little brighter than the 9500, but I prefer that myself.
Rocking L2's here since 2017 lol. They are far from perfect but they are fun and good quality.
Looking to upgrade from them and considering the X2s, X3s or even risk it all on a Hifiman and go planar.
I just fear Hifiman's quality and durability so much... they are too expensive for the amount of complains they have about drivers going bad after 1/2 years of use, snapping headbands etc. I just don't trust them anywhere near enough
Will it beat a SR60 Grado?
I've owned two pairs of Grado SR80e's and I really enjoyed them but I grew tired of shelling out $100 a year or two later due to their horrible cheapo cable set-up. I picked up a set of 9500's on Amazon six months ago for $45 and I certainly can't complain since I felt I stole them for $45. That being said, if I'm being honest with myself I have to admit I miss the Grado's...just better sound all around. Why Grado's don't come with a detachable cable is a mystery since that's my main gripe with them. It's a weak point which could easily be remedied.
@@hondaphan4172 Haven't had a problem with the cable yet. Had to replace the ear pads though because they wore out but I'v had them for like 15 years. I wonder how much better the 80s sound than the 60s though.
Great ad read
might have to bust out the ol credit card and pick up some edition xs'
Thanks!
150 for the HE400se? They were 130 for a while and now they’re like 109 🤷🏼♂️
😂 Basement Dude!!!
The Philips would be perfect and they do so many things right, just if they weren’t so extra sibilant, some songs are just unlistenable, vocals, hi hats Sss sss sss ouch. And the material on the cups is super irritating. AKG K240s are way better all round, I can listen all day.
I think that you're really overlooking one particular headphone and that's the Drop's Sennheiser ($160 4/8/23) HD 58X which is a better headphone and you can run it literally off of anything, super easy to drive. Just saying.
You can use Brainwavz Velor Replacements Ear Pads with SHP9500
Exxxx-cellent character, "skweyrespaced dood"
My Edition XS died within 1 month. Had to send it back to China for replacement. Cost me $100 to send it back.