My Favorite Headphones At Every Price! - End of 2024 Edition!

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 5 ก.พ. 2025
  • Make sure to check out prices today for any black Friday deals!
    $0 - $300
    ⭐ Edition XS - amzn.to/4fKLnvf
    ✅ SHP-9600 - amzn.to/4fR8Nz1
    ✅ PC38X (Gaming) - amzn.to/4fR8Nz1
    ✅ HD6XX - amzn.to/3Z4KfeR
    ✅ Sundara - amzn.to/3V7IYlW
    ✅ AR5000 - amzn.to/3Z7lcaP
    ✅ R70X Refine - apos.audio/pro...
    ✅ Maxwell (for closed gaming) - amzn.to/3CL1ydv
    $300 - $600 -
    ⭐ Arya Stealth - amzn.to/3Zob5jq
    ✅ DT1990Pro 2 (Studio) - amzn.to/498tqnK
    ✅HD490 - amzn.to/4i7P8fR
    $600 - $1200
    ⭐Arya Organic - amzn.to/3AQ6Kw5
    ✅ Meze 109 Pro - amzn.to/3VcmxMv
    ✅ Focal Clear - amzn.to/3OwXpfu
    ✅ LCD-X - amzn.to/4gpOoBd
    $1200 - $2000
    ✅ Modhouse Tungsten - www.modhouseau...
    ✅ HD800S *with mogwai or Pietus Maximus vvv) - amzn.to/4gaa3x7
    ✅ HE1K Unveiled - store.hifiman....
    ✅ Meze Empyrean 2 - mezeaudio.com/...
    ✅ Diana MR/DZ - abyss-headphon...
    Closed Back Headphones
    ⭐ ZMF BOKEH - shop.zmfheadph...
    ✅ FiiO FT1 - amzn.to/4iaDnVK
    ✅ Meze 99 Classic - amzn.to/412P3UF
    ✅ Azurys - amzn.to/3VCiARF
    ✅ Aeon Noire - amzn.to/3ZnWHHY
    ✅ DCA E3 (best measuring) - danclarkaudio....
    Amplifiers -
    ⭐(Tubes) Ampsandsound Mogwai SE - ampsandsound.c...
    ✅ Moondrop Dawn Pro (Super Cheap) - amzn.to/3B0CYoe
    ✅ Apos Gremlin (tube hybrid) - apos.audio/pro...
    ✅ Schiit Gunnr (gaming amp) - www.schiit.com...
    ✅ Topping DX3 Pro - amzn.to/4g0CBJg
    ✅ A90D - apos.audio/pro...
    📫SENDING FOR REVIEW??📫
    Email Me - JoshuaValourYT@Gmail.com
    These are my genuine recommendations in various categories. They are affiliated links that help pay for this TH-cam channel at no additional cost to you.
    *As an Amazon, Drop and Apos Associate I earn a commission from qualifying purchases.

ความคิดเห็น • 550

  • @MagashiSaizen
    @MagashiSaizen 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +309

    And if you're broke like me, well, you just don't get anything.

    • @anonymoususerinterface
      @anonymoususerinterface 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      samesies

    • @BickBarkGaming
      @BickBarkGaming 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +15

      or a chi-fi iem

    • @gianni.mucciaccia
      @gianni.mucciaccia 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      if you love music, you will find some money for a good pair of headphones

    • @Pablo-pk2qi
      @Pablo-pk2qi 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

      Koss Porta Pro.

    • @ckeoni
      @ckeoni 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

      Spending nothing is a savings of 100%.

  • @chriss7422
    @chriss7422 20 วันที่ผ่านมา +2

    HE 1K's are on the way! Went with the topping DX 3 pro for an amplifier. Never had anything close to this nice for audio so I really hope to be blown away! Thanks for the recommendations!

  • @Jingyih
    @Jingyih 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

    The Chord TT2 could potentially be a top-tier solid-state DAC/amp for many people. There’s definitely something appealing about eliminating interconnects between separate DACs and amps, simplifying the signal path.

  • @lucas__machado
    @lucas__machado 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +34

    Recently got a HE1000 Stealth, this is an incredible set of headphones too

    • @bren4973
      @bren4973 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Agreed

    • @cowboyflipflopped
      @cowboyflipflopped 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      HE1000 Stealth + Fiio K9 AKM = musical bliss

    • @harackmw
      @harackmw 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      HE1000 Stealth or HE1000se?

    • @Haunted-Amelia
      @Haunted-Amelia 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      My 1K Stealth arrived yesterday, absolutely love them.

    • @bren4973
      @bren4973 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@harackmw everyone seems to have a different opinion on it

  • @WillieBloom
    @WillieBloom 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    I have many headphones. Just ask the wife 🙄. Low end HD600 (and HD800 and HD800S) to high end Focal Utopia. I keep going back to my Hifiman Arya Stealth as my all-arounder for great performance for any genre (that I listen to anyway) and especially for comfort.

    • @Z3Chosen1
      @Z3Chosen1 11 วันที่ผ่านมา

      With witch interface

  • @sukinelson2153
    @sukinelson2153 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    I got the sundara recently at $200 used. Don’t regret it at all! I’ve never heard the XS though and that would probably be better.

    • @mikafoxx2717
      @mikafoxx2717 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Be happy with the Sundara, honestly, it's a great headphone. I like to EQ it to match the HE-1 with ~5dB of subbass boost, like -1dB at 1.5khz and +2db at ~6.5khz. It polishes it up just a little bit.

  • @Gadgetibles
    @Gadgetibles 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +47

    If your budget is 0-under $300 ..just stop at 2:32 and he is 100% correct get any of those two he mentioned you will be happy and not miss anything. But if you love bass Sennheiser hd58x will do as well for the same price ..but XS is the best deal

    • @mensrea1251
      @mensrea1251 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      None of the Senns are for bass, cmon.

    • @alexjoneschannel
      @alexjoneschannel หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Under $300 ought to be hd600

    • @mensrea1251
      @mensrea1251 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @ Really boring choice. Like walking into an ice cream store with hundreds of flavors and combinations to choose from and recommending vanilla.

    • @worldwanderingfisherman2166
      @worldwanderingfisherman2166 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I purchased Ananda Stealth for 300 usd, cant beat that. The arya stealth is better but for 2x more money is not worth.

    • @clay5534
      @clay5534 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@worldwanderingfisherman2166 From reviews I've seen online the Edition XS would be uncomfortable for someone with a smaller head like mine. Are the Ananda Stealth comfortable?

  • @carminedesanto6746
    @carminedesanto6746 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Great list .
    Happy Thanksgiving 🦃🍽
    Still rocking the LCDX (2021CE) 😋

  • @mariomario7379
    @mariomario7379 16 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Just picked up some Sundaras. The 2022 revision with eq is among the best I’ve heard. I have tons of respect for HIFIMAN now.

  • @TechEtrix
    @TechEtrix 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Hey Josh!
    Just wondering: why did the Z1R, your old all time favorites, no longer make your top tier list?

  • @EdwardElric6464
    @EdwardElric6464 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    If you do get the SHP9600 you should get a 1-1.5m cable to go with it. It is a great open back headphone to run straight out your phone, but the included cable is 3m in length and not idle for that use case. On the plus side it is single ended 3.5mm to 3.5mm so the aftermarket options are endless. An Apple dongle or other USB DAC is required if your phone doesn't have headphone jack cause duh. The Edition XS despite being lower impedance than the SHP9600, it needs more power due to the low sound pressure level or sensitivity, so the Apple dongle won't be enough for that.

  • @darekk7459
    @darekk7459 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    I'm waiting for the price of Arya Organic to drop significantly, because looking at Hifiman's sales policy this will definitely happen sooner or later... I just hope I don't have to wait more than a year, but that the new Arya model will push Organic lower in the hierarchy quite quickly.

    • @harackmw
      @harackmw 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I demoed them and found them way too bright, but then tried the HE1000SE [1599$]. They are still bright, but more balanced and ovalesque in soundstage, not as crazy bright as the organic and not that much more money considering with the sales. IT was 3500$ originally, so yea, sales rock.

    • @darekk7459
      @darekk7459 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@harackmw I also don't like too sharp trebles, but from what I've read, the Organics have one big peak around 6 or 8 kHz (I don't remember exactly) and that it's easy to soften with EQ, and apart from that peak, they have pretty even characteristics. They supposedly have better bass than HE1000SE and Arya Stealth.

    • @harackmw
      @harackmw 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@darekk7459 Well what I can say is the Organic's reminded me of listening to normal headphones, like a Sennheizer series, then putting on a cheap audio technica and being seemingly assaulted by how the whole FR in the treble seems amped up, to the point of being artificial for genres with acoustic instruments. If you listen for EDM and related genres you'll be fine though.

    • @mikafoxx2717
      @mikafoxx2717 หลายเดือนก่อน

      ​@@harackmwNo thanks! I prefer neutral for even EDM. I look at the HE-1's graph for proper good tuning as a reference point, and the Sundara is pretty great. Looks like some of the HE1000 series get real close, some are more wonky..

    • @harackmw
      @harackmw หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@mikafoxx2717 Good choice, personally I think much of the trends in audio like neutral bright have gotten out of hand, people chasing that sparkly treble day in aday out, I don't know how they do it or what they are listening to

  • @aranelchan
    @aranelchan 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I placed an order for the DT 1770 Pro MKII yesterday, partly thanks to your recent review. But now I see its open back sibling gets an honourable mention, whereas it gets no love. Hahah

  • @theonewhostonks
    @theonewhostonks 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I'm getting the FT1 for Christmas! I'm so excited for them, they're gonna be so good for just coming home and just quickly putting something on my head and just listening to music. Plus, first biodyna pair👀

  • @TheSavageB
    @TheSavageB หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Just purchased a topping dx9 pro 15th anniversary and the Meze 109S, looking forward to the experience!

  • @RarePotions
    @RarePotions 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Josh, do you have any plans to review the Aune SR7000?🙏 It's a closed back headphone for $600 on Amazon.

  • @classiccj2569
    @classiccj2569 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Will you review the Aune SR7000? I've heard it sounds like an open-back headphone even though it's close-back

  • @rtnjo6936
    @rtnjo6936 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    incredible channel, It is really rare to find someone with that deep knowledge and great presentation
    I've bought my first hifi edition XS for $269! i hope to get a next-tier model in a few years

  • @thinkbeforeyoupost9766
    @thinkbeforeyoupost9766 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I bought a Bokeh closed because you raved about it - mine is on pre-order but what’s the difference between stabilised limited and regular? Aesthetics or also sound? Where do you buy the stabilised or limited?

  • @gdemirjian
    @gdemirjian 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    At $150 it's hard to beat the HD599 for open back and the Sundara Closed for closed back. I've had the FT1 for about two weeks now and I think they are a very good entry closed but the V shaped sound signature is too exaggerated for me. For similar closed dynamic at this point, I prefer the Sivga Robin. At around $300-$400 I like the Fostex T60RP, Sennheiser HD660S2, AKG K712 and the HE6se V2. A few of my upper mid-tier favs are the Focal Elix, HFM HEk Stealth, Denon D7200, LSA HP2 Ultra and the Aron2 Noire. My fav high end in my collection is the ZMF Atrium and the Sony Z1R (honorable mention, Focal Radiance). Great video! Thanks!!

    • @faultyclean
      @faultyclean 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Have you tried the Z7 as well or just the Z1R?

    • @gdemirjian
      @gdemirjian 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@faultyclean only the Z1R.

  • @sand9577
    @sand9577 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    For solid state amps. I'm a fan of the Violectric V222.

  • @chradon.
    @chradon. 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +29

    Would’ve liked a more direct comparison (round up) between the ones you recommend in the same price bracket so I could determine which would fit my personal taste better

  • @TheLeftistOwl
    @TheLeftistOwl 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    To add to the Tungsten: it also has a long lead time. We're talking months. So if you don't wanna wait for it and haven't heard it yet, you might wanna go with something else. I personally think it's worth the wait as i have a pair, but i think it's important to let people know that they're not gonna get it immediately

  • @imabeliever85
    @imabeliever85 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Appreciate the video! Lots to consider. For me, the HD 6xx is the open back that plays to my tastes, the M50X is the wired closed back I prefer, and the Momentum 3 or 4 is my favorite wireless. For earbuds, I would go with the Soundcore Space A40.

  • @CoryLaker-o3j
    @CoryLaker-o3j หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I am new to the audiophile community and went with the Arya Stealth. I got the FiiO K7 to pair with it. I spent forever trying to find a dac/amp and from what I gathered you cannot really tell much difference with different dac/amps. Do you agree?

  • @ARC87
    @ARC87 หลายเดือนก่อน

    People keep recommending the original Focal Clear, even though it has been discontinued for quite a while already. Not sure if it makes sense to recommend models that are no longer sold. Thanks for your opinions Josh 👍🏼

  • @Synapse-Limbo
    @Synapse-Limbo หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Considering the price of Ananda right now, would you say it is a better purchase to the edition xs?

  • @memostothefuture
    @memostothefuture 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I really hope to get this expert-level advice from you on closed wireless headphones to help me decide on what to get for my commute.

  • @josellanj
    @josellanj 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    You need to try the Austrian Audio The Composer...it might be on the expensive side but it's an incredible headphone. Detailed, balanced and great low end. Happy Holidays

    • @harackmw
      @harackmw 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      how is it compared to other Austrian Audio cans? I have the x65 and it has scary detail, I'm afraid the Composer would shred most music you put on it and be too revealing...

    • @josellanj
      @josellanj 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      ​@harackmw Hi, I haven't heard other Austrian Audio headphones, but The Composer will not shred music since treble is never harsh or shrill or overdone. On the other hand, the treble is detailed, but also relaxed. Music is not forced. Perhaps it achieves this balance because the midrange is on the neutral side, and it has really nice low end extension. The Composer is very musical and rich and effortless in its presentation, but not overly warm. Imaging is great, and I found it has a nice soundstage. Not overly wide, but it's realsitic, and even holographic on some songs. I also use Meze Empyrean II and Hifiman Arya Organic headphones, and I think The Composer is just as good as those 2 headphones, and better in some ways. I hope this helps. 🙏 😊

    • @harackmw
      @harackmw 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@josellanj thanks! it helps!

  • @MichaelChan0308
    @MichaelChan0308 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Thanks for the quality vid. I wished you could do rankings for IEM like this too...

  • @valmirseog276
    @valmirseog276 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Joshua, muito obrigado por colocar opção de áudio em português. Todos nós, audiófilos brasileiros, ficamos muito felizes em poder acompanhar este vídeo em nosso idioma nativo. Ótimo trabalho!

  • @aisidapatrick2781
    @aisidapatrick2781 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +13

    No Sennheiser HD 560s?

    • @AspectClip
      @AspectClip 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      They're overrated trash. Might be salvageable with EQ but without EQ their tonality is garbage tier.

    • @ufdiu3n8s2
      @ufdiu3n8s2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@AspectClip What to buy instead of them, something at similar price range as them

    • @AspectClip
      @AspectClip หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@ufdiu3n8s2 My choice would be the DT990pro, or HD600 or Edition XS if your budget can stretch.

    • @sandydennylives1392
      @sandydennylives1392 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      @@AspectClip Rubbish, your being a snob elitist. Perfectly fine with flac, great sound stage, full note weight. It rules at it's price point. For those with other interests; of course there are better h/phones, it's a journey dude.

  • @allandresner
    @allandresner 13 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Josh, great videos as always. Hope you still look at some of your older videos, would like to know which amp you use with your Modhouse Tungsten? And is that amp driving a single or double sided Tungsten? Thanks in advance =)

  • @IndecisiveConclusion
    @IndecisiveConclusion 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Great video Josh. You always have the best reviews and videos. Plus ive come to realize your audio preferences coincide a lot more to mine, more so than many of the other reviewers who you know quite well.
    Plus the design and production of videos are top notch
    Im lookkng forward to that schiit gunnr review. Im thinking of getting it for my step son for christmas

  • @MoonshineBeforeSunshine
    @MoonshineBeforeSunshine 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +17

    Josh, Aune S9C Pro, your "main dac amp," didn't even get a mention! How come?

    • @maxfraser
      @maxfraser 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      I actually wondered about this too…

    • @JoshuaValour
      @JoshuaValour  2 หลายเดือนก่อน +18

      Ah sh*t. Knew i missed something. I use that every day. It’s very good. 👍

    • @Sam-fn3xx
      @Sam-fn3xx 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@JoshuaValour Me too until the USB crapped out. Odd thing is the seller and distributor are recommending I chose another unit instead of swapping out the recently purchased S9C.

    • @ssuperfly
      @ssuperfly 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Oh no..i was just looking at the S9C to upgrade my Zen stack. How long have you had the S9C for?

  • @patriksmondrk4835
    @patriksmondrk4835 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I've been using the Topping DX3 Pro+ for a year, and the difference between my PC audio and the DAC/AMP is incredible, it kind of makes even youtube videos sound pretty good :) I've decided for it also because of your review, so thank you for that ;) Waiting right now for the Fiio FT1 closed back as my Christmas present.

    • @ckeoni
      @ckeoni 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I have the same amp and totally agree.

  • @Tonza4
    @Tonza4 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +29

    What happened to Aune S9c?

    • @D1N02
      @D1N02 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@Tonza4 isn't a headphone?

    • @steviejandjoseline776
      @steviejandjoseline776 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

      @@D1N02 its a solid state amp, which he talked about in this video

    • @duppy666.
      @duppy666. 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Was just about to comment this.

    • @stefancheung4778
      @stefancheung4778 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      curious about this too, surprised it didn't make the list

  • @MadelnMachines
    @MadelnMachines 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    No mention of the Arya Unveiled - is the Organic a better bet?

    • @The-Oreo-Man
      @The-Oreo-Man 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I've also been wondering, too!

  • @bak1snus
    @bak1snus 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Just got Audeze Maxwell! Super dope. Were you in the military by the way? You give me army vibes

  • @denaude7058
    @denaude7058 8 วันที่ผ่านมา

    I’m happy with my anker souncore q20i. But I wouldnt mind the Sennheissers.

  • @Sarjan
    @Sarjan 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    XS better than HD 600? I am using HD 600 now.

    • @gavinxq1224
      @gavinxq1224 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      I had HD600. You ever poke your shoulders with the plugs' end while turning your head sideway? I hate that. And I think it sounds boring, unpopular opinon. So I'm using Ananda Nano now and I think it will be my endgame. 😄

    • @Sarjan
      @Sarjan 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @gavinxq1224 gotta try XS too then 😂

    • @Sarjan
      @Sarjan 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@gavinxq1224 never had that problem,what about hifiman qc?,i really wanted one but seeing online about their qc always makes me hold

  • @kuko61
    @kuko61 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I bought an Audeze Maxwell a year ago and now I listen my wired setup less than the Maxwells. And it is 10x more expensive. Yes, I love the sound of the Audeze, I had the LCD-X, now I have the LCD-3, so maybe that's why I love the Maxwells. Anyway, headphones for that price with such detailed and balanced sound and moreover wireless and closed is a small miracle :)

    • @apotheoz9196
      @apotheoz9196 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I've read that they had a lot of driver problems as planar closed back, and that they are very sensitive to literally everything (moist, pressure, etc) and super fragile. Are yours OK ? No wrinkles or sound differences on the planar drivers with time ?

    • @kuko61
      @kuko61 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@apotheoz9196 Before buying, I saw a lot of pictures and posts describing the problems. But I bought them anyway, if there was a problem, I think it would have appeared within the warranty period. There weren't that many problematic units, considering the number of units sold, in my opinion.
      I haven't had any problems so far. I haven't checked the wrinkling of the drivers :) and sonically they are still perfect.
      All planar headphones are sensitive to pressure on the drivers. The Maxwells are my fifth planar headphones, I handle all of them with care, I definitely pay more attention to them than to headphones with dynamic drivers.
      For example, when I changed the earpads on my He400SE, they sealed better, and when I put them on my ears, I could hear the crinkling sound of the drivers. I put a piece of rubber between the earcup and the earpad to create a small opening to allow air to flow through so that there is no pressure in the earcup.

    • @lemonade2345-j4e
      @lemonade2345-j4e 18 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@apotheoz9196 at that price point, what do you expect? a miracle?

  • @masterxyr
    @masterxyr 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    The side profile of the HD490 reminds me of the helmets of the Star Wars Speeder bike riders.
    there. a profound audio contribution...

  • @yujmgo
    @yujmgo 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    I wonder how the he1000 se competes against the he1000 unveiled

  • @user_5670x
    @user_5670x 12 วันที่ผ่านมา

    What do you think about Corsair virtuoso pro?

  • @bitterandjaded_
    @bitterandjaded_ 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    You should go on a tube rolling adventure with the Schiit Vali3. People are running NOS tubes that cost more than the amp. Natively it uses a 6N3P or 5670, but adapters will allow 6922, 12AU7, even 6SN7. Runs IEMs and 300ohm headphones and everything in between. A real contender for your list at only $150.

  • @davelarcheveque7209
    @davelarcheveque7209 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    What best headphones for sleep tokens?

  • @Doggie64
    @Doggie64 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Thanks Josh, perfect timing on the video. This one really slammed in the presentation too. Woof.😊

  • @xKDBLOOD
    @xKDBLOOD 21 วันที่ผ่านมา

    Hello, first of all thank you so much for the video, because of you i bought the sennheiser hd 490 pro and i love it a lot with topping dx3 pro, but i want another headphone and i am not sure what to buy, please can you help me between The HiFiMan Edition XS and the HiFiMan Arya Stealth Magnet Version i can offer one of them but i really confused i love listen to music playing solo games, and both of them work perfectly fine with topping dx3 pro or should i buy topping DX5? I really appreciate it if you answer me and again thank you so much 🙏

  • @SPAstef98
    @SPAstef98 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    My main headphones are the HD800s. I used to run the 6XX on a FiiO K5 Pro, but the 800s were a bit too "hollow" (which makes sense, considering they have a huge soundstage while the 6XX are more intimate and warm). My guess was the K5 not really being able to drive the 800s, and got the Hifiman EF600 DAC/AMP instead: it has plenty of power and can drive the 800s very well, making it sound more natural and "bodied" while retaining all of its strengths compared to the 6XX. I think you may wanna give it a try (in the shop they made me try a tube amp which I liked even more, but it sold for 9000€ so I was like "ok, maybe not today" 😅)

  • @JK-qk1kh
    @JK-qk1kh 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    Why haven't you reviewed ZMF Atrium? Your boys Goldensound and DMS think they are close to perfect cans!

    • @sfs03
      @sfs03 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I was about to ask the same but about the atrium closed

  • @charanteja200
    @charanteja200 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    How about the Questyle M15i , it works great for IEMs and 300-ohm headphones too and for someone who wants things to be clean

  • @megatherium100
    @megatherium100 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    A really good pick for an AIO that's relatively cheap is the Fiio K11 R2R, I've been using this in the office for more than a month and it sounds great, has plenty of power for almost any headphone and it doesn't take much desk space and it's also kind of blends in if you turn off the gamer led lights on the amp.

  • @MechFrankaTLieu
    @MechFrankaTLieu 8 วันที่ผ่านมา

    well , every year I read or watch these list and was like - can the Mfr9s) and reviewer had some heart for us with a more petite head size and come up with decent high end and mid tier headphones that we can actually wear comfortably and able to get a decent seal , Edition XS from Hifiman sure are not bad but when I put it on the tip of the egg actually project beyond my chin and I would wager many with smaller sized head or many ladies and younger ones getting into the hobby would had issue with all the big and weird shaped ones , and Joshua you really should made a list of good headphones that can be safely and comfortably worn by those of us with a smaller and slimmer head size ( and might be one for the other end )

  • @Thiccolo
    @Thiccolo 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +523

    No one will see this, I am GAY

    • @azad-4286
      @azad-4286 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +43

      i saw it... nice one lad

    • @ashtray4313
      @ashtray4313 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +8

      A well deserved downvote

    • @rainyrose911
      @rainyrose911 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +35

      Everyone will know! Thanks coming out of the closet.
      Very brave

    • @gavinxq1224
      @gavinxq1224 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

      Need a hand? I can help.

    • @MurphysFilm
      @MurphysFilm 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +44

      Hi Gay I’m dad

  • @boblob-law9401
    @boblob-law9401 หลายเดือนก่อน

    If you need an Amplifier/Dac combo to power your Hifiman's, look no further than the EF400. It's a powerhouse and is tuned to work very well with your Hifiman headphones. It's powerful enough to easily handle even the most power hungry cans on the market. The open box price is about $300, or $400 new. An absolute steal if you ask me

  • @RX-rd4sc
    @RX-rd4sc 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +11

    No z1r in closed back?

    • @asplmn
      @asplmn หลายเดือนก่อน +7

      It’s one of the best out there and will become a cult classic.

    • @tonim.2823
      @tonim.2823 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      for me, the best closed back for a couple of years

    • @chunkylover5367
      @chunkylover5367 19 วันที่ผ่านมา

      No audiophile reviewer like it, it's got a wonky AF sound signature and freq. response. It's a fun headphone for EDM and ultra comfortable, but it's too expensive for what it is.

    • @RX-rd4sc
      @RX-rd4sc 19 วันที่ผ่านมา +4

      @ lol even joshua loved z1r and passionforsound loved it soo much that he bought a pair after that review unit
      I doesn’t have any wonkyness going on

  • @BleachCuresBlindness
    @BleachCuresBlindness 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Would really like to know how well the Audeze Maxwell stacks up against some of the other headphones in its price range with it being wireless and more gaming focused

  • @dustinmihalcheon5013
    @dustinmihalcheon5013 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I tried so many headphones over the years and I finally settled on the Edition XS. I got it for around $400 Canadian and it was well worth it. Major in games and minor in music. Only caveats are the comfort (after finding a setting that worked I definitely got used to it but wasn’t super comfy out of the box) and build quality. The headband feels cheap and the notches in sizing don’t feel super tight. Is that gonna be a problem? Idk it could last forever despite my gripe about it. 🤷‍♂️ Otherwise the best headphone I’ve had at any price.

  • @matty_mccarthy
    @matty_mccarthy 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Just upgraded to Arya stealth after 3 yrs of R70x. Love em
    Going to save for the Tungsten next.

  • @vinodrathod3902
    @vinodrathod3902 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I want to upgrade from my tangzu wan'er. I liked the vocals, clarity and subbass in this. I want to upgrade on better bass, good surround sound stage and better separation in the sound. My highest preference is the comfort and my budget is around 100$-120$. Can you suggest me the best one

  • @ab185
    @ab185 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    Josh, have you tried the HD800S on more powerful amps like the Schiit Jot2? If not, would love it if you could try it and make a video on it. I think people are seriously underestimating the power needed to make the HD800S shine.

    • @soundhead18
      @soundhead18 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I get away with using a Samson S-Amp on my modded HD800’s honestly

    • @vaneast411
      @vaneast411 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      this headphone profoundly benefits from OTL tube amps - and there are many inexpensive otl’s that are just great

    • @samyS2k
      @samyS2k หลายเดือนก่อน

      Why do people not just buy the amp that Sennheiser specificly designed for them? 😅 i really dont get it

    • @ab185
      @ab185 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@samyS2k the price tag.

    • @samyS2k
      @samyS2k หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@ab185 atm I think it`s worth it. When I feel like upgrading my current setup(hd6xx) to the hd800s I currently feel like the hdv820 is a nobrainer to buy it with, I don`t want to experiment with different amp dac combos and I also like the minimalistic design of the hdv820. Just one small, simple box on my desktop doing it all. But yeah the price is heavy xD. Thats why I wait for the moment where I say: Yup it`s time to treat myself with my end-game setup.

  • @FisherMan-bh9dn
    @FisherMan-bh9dn 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Focal Elex should be on the list. It's definitely on mine. Awesome headphone.

  • @darkfeeels
    @darkfeeels 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Hey Josh, I'm looking to buy my first nice headphone. The budget is $200, my main use case is gaming and client meetings for office. I'm torn between PC38x and HD 560S - can you let me know the differences between the two to help me decide? thank you

  • @jameskyler5441
    @jameskyler5441 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Do these rankings still apply if you use parametric EQ and also no love for e-stats?

  • @CharlieLiuPhotography
    @CharlieLiuPhotography หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hi Josh. Kind of an unusual question - I like most of the hoodies you wear in your videos, but this Adidas one looks exceptional. Which hoodie is that exactly?
    Thanks!

    • @SPplayer.
      @SPplayer. หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Adidas

  • @JHunter_
    @JHunter_ 15 วันที่ผ่านมา

    If money's not a problem, which headphone is the best for watching movies?(I have no clue when ppl talk about sound specs)

  • @XiaoqiuQIU
    @XiaoqiuQIU หลายเดือนก่อน

    How would you rate the Meze Empyrean 2 vs. Elite?

  • @carlosflup
    @carlosflup 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +33

    There are a LOT of people on amazon complaining about the edition XS defective drivers or rattling and buzzing noises... Can´t risk my money based on that.

    • @calvinyip364
      @calvinyip364 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      I almost pull the trigger now I am looking at the Fiio ft1 pro

    • @davidbock1801
      @davidbock1801 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Just got the XS and overall it honestly is amazing for $269. But, yes, the build quality is suspect.

    • @calvinyip364
      @calvinyip364 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@davidbock1801 but yeah. I read Reddit alot of people complaining about the driver died. Within months etc. Some 1 year some 2 years. The built failing. Similar to the sundara.
      But yeah. I am legit wondering how does the edition xs Vs Fiio ft1 pro sounds.
      Their headphones getting better and better. And Fiio ft1 is cheaper than the X's but with newer technology.

    • @davidbock1801
      @davidbock1801 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@calvinyip364 The Fiio is a closed-back (although apparently a good one). As an open-back, the XS will be vastly superior sound-wise.

    • @ngdome7583
      @ngdome7583 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@calvinyip364 I heard the FT1 pro are as good as the XS I read 2 deep dives of the FT1 pro and they look kinda crazy

  • @Marian1st.
    @Marian1st. หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Should I go with XS or HD650?

    • @danel4353
      @danel4353 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      XS

  • @faultyclean
    @faultyclean 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    How does the Ananda Stealth compare to the Edition XS? Then as a side question, how do they compare to something like the Sony MDR-Z7 since that is what I currently have an absolutely love the comfort and sound of these. Also have the 7XX but hate the quality of those with the headband style and always degrading parts even when not being used.

  • @FenrirAlter
    @FenrirAlter 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    still dont like hifiman edition xs unless your country offers good mods. Build quality is also just kinda meh. The Arya stealth used to be 1.7k € and even now at 660€ (guess why they can drop the price so low while the dt1990 pro mki or sennheiser hd600 costed around the same for sooo long)it feels cheaper and than the dt1990 pro mkii or the fiio ft5. Also the qc just isnt great. I would only get them from stores that have good return policies and even then. Do you want to buy a headphone that on average will break earlier than others?

    • @danieldev514
      @danieldev514 29 วันที่ผ่านมา

      Yes because there is nothing else that comes close in terms of sound quality which is what actually matters. You get 1 year warranty and you can get headband mod from capriaudio shipped worldwide for 35 dollars including shipping. At that price buying anything other than xs is moronic

  • @williamjohnson43
    @williamjohnson43 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I'm torn between getting the LCD-X or HD 800s

    • @Iamwere
      @Iamwere หลายเดือนก่อน

      Have you spent significant time with both of them? In my experience, they are quite different. For me, the LCD-X is more full-bodied and better for rock/pop/electronic. Not too amp picky and well made and a great value. I would have kept them but they literally hurt my neck because they are too heavy for me. And they clamp pretty hard on my head. The HD800s are better for acoustic/classical/jazz but require a better amp. They are definitely light enough and they fit my big head, but in my opinion, are not the best option if they are going to be your only pair of headphones because they are not suited to all types of music and lack a profound low end. I still have HD800s for classical but I wouldn't want them to be my only pair of good headphones for that reason...so I got another headphone to use for rock, etc. Just my thoughts, not that you asked. But hopefully that helps!

  • @johncapone8843
    @johncapone8843 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    What headphone's for the shiit gunnr for gaming and watching movies?

  • @madi92111
    @madi92111 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Any opinion on the Sennheiser 6H pro closed?

  • @robiocraft
    @robiocraft 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I would more highly recommend Ananda Stealth > Edition XS. They are almost the same price but come with many upgrades - Better headband, better pads, better audio impact, mids, highs. sub-bass isn't as deep, however bass has more slam quality.

  • @louis-felixcauchon2515
    @louis-felixcauchon2515 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    I remember a video where you were amazed by the tube amp WA23; like it was the best tube amp you ever heard. Now it's the Ampsandsound Mogwai SE. Is it really better than the WA23 or it's just because it is too damn expensive to be considered on this list?

  • @Capitan_Cavernicola_1
    @Capitan_Cavernicola_1 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Nice picks. But would like to listen to the abyss Diana but it is almost impossible in the EU. I have heard the Empyrian 2 and it is great. One day! However, both are well above 2000 USD belonging to a much larger expensive price bracket really.

  • @Jingyih
    @Jingyih 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Hey Josh, which output tubes are you using on your Mogwai SE? I’m not very familiar with tube, are those TungSol 6L6GC STRs?

  • @InfectedAI
    @InfectedAI 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Saw you haven't posted on X in a long time so I'll ask here. Any recommendations for a mic and mic arm? Your productions are always too notch so I wanted your advice while looking through the Black Friday sales. Planning on doing some videos and streaming. Too many people I watch have poor audio haha.

  • @lightsout911
    @lightsout911 หลายเดือนก่อน

    No love for the Sony Z1R in closed backs?

  • @JuhoLankila
    @JuhoLankila 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hifiman kinda dominating the market :D shame its pretty much impossible to demo headphones in Finland, outside of Helsinki.
    Super hard to decide between Arya stealth and organic, since I've heard neither

    • @invisiblekid99
      @invisiblekid99 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      By all accounts, get the Organics. IV won't heard them but I have the Stealth. They are good but the treble is a bit much. We all hear treble differently mind. The Organics have a wider soundstage. The stealth has great height ( as all egg shaped Hifiman do), but they are worse than the V2 Arya.
      Saying all that the atm Stealths are ridiculously cheap.

  • @VitiateTheImmortal
    @VitiateTheImmortal 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I love my 800s. Its certainly one of my all time favorites!
    Currently trying to find Abyss Diana Tc's in a good deal which will be my all time endgame

    • @markshenefelt7611
      @markshenefelt7611 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      800s is my fav for gaming but for whatever reason they were just super uncomfortable for me. i know i am in the minority there but they hurt my neck everytime i put them on for more than 30 mins

    • @manchild8365
      @manchild8365 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@markshenefelt7611 very much the minority lol how is a headphone that light cause you neck pain?

  • @ghalebferhan3632
    @ghalebferhan3632 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    i dont see the epos h6 pro in the list? is it not that good maybe? cause i didnt see a review

  • @user-br2gi8kh5s
    @user-br2gi8kh5s 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I bought a used Hifiman Sundara for 150$ and it came with dekoni suedes earpads and the original earpads as well. Super excited for it to arrive and to try it out. Edit: I ended up selling them and kept a pair of Hifiman Edition XS headphones instead, they sound much better Imo (especially with EQ).

  • @Arcangel2992
    @Arcangel2992 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Love the XS, but had to get an after market 3d printed headband to make it comfortable

  • @P4sta.
    @P4sta. 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    what about the ananda nano? where does that stack up against the edition xs?

  • @kylebrown518
    @kylebrown518 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I am looking for an answer based off hearing both the abyss diana dz and meze empyrean 2, which are the go to you just got homee and want to play video games while enjoying all kinds of electronic music?

  • @trog69
    @trog69 หลายเดือนก่อน

    I have three headphones I love to swap in; Edition XS; HD6xx; and for really fun listening, the Harmonicdyne Eris 'phones. The XS are also on the fun side, though tamed a bit from the Eris and better soundstage, while the 6xx's are still the reference cans.

    • @bryangel9979
      @bryangel9979 หลายเดือนก่อน

      How would the bass of the XS compared to the Eris? Thanks.

    • @trog69
      @trog69 16 วันที่ผ่านมา

      @@bryangel9979 The bass is more neutral than the Eris, of course, but it's still very strong. Not subterranian, but very powerful and engaging.

  • @yosriouni
    @yosriouni หลายเดือนก่อน

    Would you say the Elite is outdated?

  • @arthurhaywood2184
    @arthurhaywood2184 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Not a fan of Hifiman.
    The Aune S5000, while sounding very good for its price range, had me concerned about its build quality with all that plastic. Besides, I already owned the FT3 and didn’t feel the need to own both. It seemed a bit redundant.

  • @FitbutFat503
    @FitbutFat503 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Newish to hifi in terms of headphones. My budget is 350, should I get the edition xs, the maxwells or hd600? I listen mostly to rock edm and soundscapes

  • @torrak5338
    @torrak5338 หลายเดือนก่อน

    how come no one talking about the hd 490 pro? is it too bad or just not popular enough? i recently bought one and am worried i made a mistake now 😅

    • @jamesschneider3828
      @jamesschneider3828 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      If you like them then don’t worry about having to buy something different. This old rabbit hole is hard to climb back out of. What one thinks sounds great somebody else says it sounds like crap. If you have the money go ahead and buy three or four different ones. I am using the Senheiser hd660s first gen which I have had for a couple of years and I enjoy them but am using a WiiM pro streamer with a 10 band equalizer to shape the sound to my preference. I can sit and listen for 2 to 3 hours with no fatigue. I’ve got a new pair coming which Josh stated didn’t make the cut for the money but out of about 10 different reviews I’ve watched he was the only one that didn’t think they were that great. So who’s right and who’s wrong? Who’s to say. Opinions are a dime a bakers dozen.

  • @Amariths1
    @Amariths1 หลายเดือนก่อน

    AR5000 or Edition XS for only $40 apart what should i get.

  • @nonenothing4412
    @nonenothing4412 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    Meze 99 noir still relevant now or no?

  • @jatindhyani1996
    @jatindhyani1996 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Hey, would love your recommendations on audiophile wireless headset. You reviewed Focal Bathys and would love to hear about more (e.g., Beoplay H95)

  • @gianni.mucciaccia
    @gianni.mucciaccia 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    There are many differences in terms of sound and bass if i use the XS with the moondrop or with the topping Dx3 pro?

  • @aliakbar-dq5nd
    @aliakbar-dq5nd 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    What do you think about amiron home instead of dt1990 pro mk2 ?

  • @2yle
    @2yle 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    Can you make a video about the best headphone setups for various price points in 2024?

  • @Mssv2013
    @Mssv2013 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Which Hifiman has the best bass impact or slam?

    • @jamesfiorucci5774
      @jamesfiorucci5774 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      A toss up between the He6se V2 and organic. Susvara if driven properly too

    • @KiwiNickG
      @KiwiNickG 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Maxwell surely for gaming?

    • @coardtech
      @coardtech 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      none

    • @gavin8489
      @gavin8489 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      None. Hfms have pathetic bass dynamics. Except HE-6 family.

    • @yunuscalt9788
      @yunuscalt9788 2 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Don't pay attention to those who have no experience and talk nonsense. Ananda Nano has incredibly punchy bass.