The 10 Best Audiophile Headphone, Tested And Researched

Nicolas Ward By, Nicolas Ward
Updated
Sennheiser HD 600 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone
Image credit: Amazon.com

The Rundown

1. Best Of The Best: Sennheiser HD 600 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone

The Sennheiser HD 600 is designed for audiophiles who want a dynamic open-back headphone that delivers the ultimate in audio quality. With a high-quality open metal mesh earpiece cover, this dynamic headphone comes with Kevlar reinforced oxygen free copper cables and detachable design. Read Review

2. Best Bang For The Buck: HIFIMAN HE400SE Stealth Magnets Version Over-Ear Open-Back Full-Size

Discover the next generation in headphones with the HIFIMAN HE400SE Stealth Magnets Version Over-Ear Open-Back Full-Size. Each of these ultra-light headphones is engineered with a newly designed adjustable lightweight headband that makes it perfect for hours of listening pleasure. Read Review

3. Upgrade pick: Sennheiser HD 650 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone

With a new design that includes a highly optimized magnet system for minimum harmonic and inter-modulation distortion, the Sennheiser HD 650 headphones with open back design deliver an excellent audio experience in both music and movies. Read Review

4. Best Realiable: HIFIMAN SUNDARA Over-Ear Full-Size Planar Magnetic HiFi Stereo

HIFIMAN is honored to introduce the SUNDARA, a planar magnetic headphone that features newly developed diaphragm that is 80% thinner than the HE400 Series resulting in a wider frequency response, faster and more detailed. With its weight spreading strap, it offers outstanding comfort but with a more fashion conscious look with its sleek and sumptuous matte black finish. Read Review

If you’re serious about your music, you’ve probably heard of audiophilia. The condition or fascination with high fidelity sound. If you aren’t aware of it yet, chances are that you will be soon enough. High quality headphones are one of the most essential pieces of equipment to get into audiophilia.

It is important to have good-quality headphones so that they don’t muddy up the sound of your favorite tunes. There are several different types of headphones on the market right now, but some are clearly better than others. The best audiophile headphone is not an easy choice because there are many factors to consider before buying them – price, durability and even brand name do play a part in this decision making process as well.

However, if you want the best possible sound quality from your media player or computer speakers then you should look into getting yourself an audiophile headphone instead.

Our experts have determined the models that would be the greatest fit for your requirements, specifically Sennheiser HD 600 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone, after doing extensive study and analysis over a considerable time. Consider HIFIMAN HE400SE Stealth Magnets Version Over-Ear Open-Back Full-Size as an alternative if you're still undecided. Other suggestions on this list are definitely worth considering, and we've put up a useful shopping guide to help you decide!

Our Top Picks

TOP Choice #1 Sennheiser HD 600 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone
Our Score:
9.8
Sennheiser Consumer Audio
  • Neodymium ferrous magnets maintain optimum sensitivity and excellent dynamics
  • High quality open metal mesh earpiece covers
  • Lightweight aluminum voice coils ensure excellent transient response
  • Detachable, Kevlar reinforced oxygen free copper cable with very low handling noise
  • Sophisticated design, elegantly finished in black and gray
  • Connectivity technology : Wired
  • The HE400SE’s high sensitivity makes it the perfect match for low-voltage sources, including portable hi-res. audio players.
  • Acoustically Invisible Stealth Magnet Unlike the sound waves created by a conventional magnet, the special shape of Stealth Magnets enables the waves to pass through the magnets without generating interference. HIFIMAN’s advanced magnet design is acoustically transparent, dramatically reducing wave diffraction turbulence that degrades the integrity of the sound waves. The reduced distortion yields pure sonic output that is accurate and full-range.
  • Maximum Comfort for Hours of Listening Pleasure Thanks to its newly designed adjustable lightweight headband, the HE400se remains cool and comfortable for hours, even in excessively warm weather.
  • Durable Connections The headphone’s drivers are protected by a newly designed casing for enhanced durability and protection from the elements. A dual-sided high-performance 3.5mm cable is packaged with a 6.35mm adapter for maximum compatibility with a wide range of devices.
  • What is a planar headphone? What are its benefits over other designs? Planar headphones feature conductive layers that cover nearly the entire diaphragm, resulting in significantly lower distortion than conventional dynamic headphones.
TOP Choice #3 Sennheiser HD 650 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone
Our Score:
9.4
Sennheiser Consumer Audio
  • Improved frequency response is 10 39,500 Hertz ( 10 dB)
  • Cable length 118 inches
  • High power neodymium magnets deliver maximum efficiency; 3.5 millimetre jack plug. Frequency response (Headphones):10 41000 Hz
  • Specially designed acoustic silk ensures precision damping over the entire frequency range and helps to reduce THD to an incredible 0.05 percent
  • Lightweight aluminum voice coils for very fast transient response
  • Hand selected matched driver elements; Highly optimized magnet systems for minimum harmonic and inter modulation distortion
  • With the weight spreading strap for outstanding comfort but with a more fashion conscious look with its sleek and sumptuous matte black finish.
  • Featuring Newly Developed Diaphragm that is 80% Thinner than the HE400 Series Resulting in a Wider Frequency Response, Faster and More Detailed
  • With its all metal headband the SUNDARA is built to take the rigours of urban street life. The SUNDARA is as tough as it is beautiful.
  • New 3.5mm Headphone connector for enhanced durability
  • The slimline SuperMini is the perfect on the partner for the SUNDARA. The SuperMini with its abundance of audio power output and the SUNDARA’s grace and poise makes them the velvet glove over a marble fist.
5 SENNHEISER HD 660 S - HiRes Audiophile Open Back Headphone
Our Score:
9.2
Sennheiser Consumer Audio
  • Note: Kindly refer to the user manual provided as a PDF manual in the product description section
  • Transducers are hand selected for precise (1 dB) left / right matching tolerance insure exceptional accuracy and presentation of stereo spatial characteristics
  • Supplied with two connection cables: One with a 6.35 millimeter stereo plug, the other a 4.4 millimeter Pentaconn balanced stereo plug. Also included is a 6.35 millimeter to 3.5 millimeter adaptor. Connectivity Technology: Wired 6.35 millimeter / 4.4 millimeter Pentaconn
  • Reference class open back, dynamic headphone employing new and improved transducers delivering low harmonic distortion
  • Para aramid reinforced, detachable cables employ high conductive OFC copper to insure signal integrity with very low handling noise
  • 150 ohm nominal impedance allows direct connection to home and mobile Hires audio devices. Contact pressure: 6.0 N - 1 N
  • Frequency response 10 to 41,000 Hz ( 10 dB), Impedance 150 ohm
  • Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW . Full open-air type headphones produce no sense of pressure on the ears, resulting in a completely natural sensation
  • 53 mm drivers reproduce clear treble and midrange. Connectivity Technology: Wired
  • Self-adjusting 3D Wing Support provides a comfortable listening experience; total ear-fit design minimizes pressure. Maximum Input Power: 700 mW
  • Connector Type: 3.5mm
  • Frequency Response - 20 – 20, 000 Hz and Impedance - 45 ohms
  • Lightweight aluminum honeycomb casing with excellent acoustic properties
  • Bobbin-wound CCAW voice coils for superior power handling. Impedance: 38 ohms
7 Sennheiser HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones
Our Score:
8.9
Sennheiser Consumer Audio
  • Included components: Headphones, Cable, Owners Manual
  • Natural and accurate reference sound that reveals the truth in your music
  • Connector type: 1/4-inch
  • Connectivity technology: Wired
  • Extended low-end reach with gratifying presence for clear bass performance
  • Lifelike depth and realism from open-back earcups that allow sound waves to expand naturally
  • Wide soundstage from ergonomic acoustic refinement (e.a.r.) that tilts the drivers to the natural angle of your ears
  • Crystal Clear Calls: 6 built-in microphones work with an intelligent algorithm to pick up and amplify precisely your voice from the crowded environment.
  • Multiple Active Noise Cancelling Modes: 1MORE EVO features 4 ANC modes and 2 transparency modes. The active noise cancellation depth can reach up to 42dB.
  • Adjustable EQ Modes: Customize your audio preferences in 1MORE MUSIC app for immersive listening experience. We provide Custom EQ, Preset EQ and SoundID to choose from. ( Earbuds' firmware version needs to be updated to the latest)
  • New Audio Evolution: Combined hybrid dual drivers, LDAC technology and balanced armature, 1MORE EVO delivers a powerful studio sound with unrivaled details.
  • Adaptive ANC Mode: 1MORE EVO recognizes the ambient sounds intelligently and switches the noise cancellation mode accordingly to ensure a perfect hearing experience.
  • Built-in audiophile amplifier for rich, dynamic and detailed sound
  • Patent pending 4-driver system featuring custom 44mm ultra-responsive drivers for audio and dedicated 30mm drivers for ANC
  • Highest quality Bluetooth wireless technology
  • Foldable construction for easy portability and storage
  • Battery life up to 24 hours with Bluetooth only or 8 hours with Bluetooth, ANC and Amp
  • A specially developed Dual Chamber Absorber system prevents frequency crowding to reveal subtle details buried in your music
  • The IE 800 S provides breathtaking reference-grade audiophile sound you can fit in a pocket
  • Made in Germany with proprietary 7mm Extra Wide Band transducers in a rugged ceramic body that sounds like a full-size headphone
  • Sealed ear canal fit isolates the listener from their environment for giant-sized sound anywhere (wide assortment of eartips are included for a seamless fit)
Product Images, Product Titles, Product Highlights from Amazon Product Advertising API

What Factors Should You Consider While Choosing best audiophile headphone?

Getting to the best decision for a product purchase may take a bit of time. In a nutshell, we're available to serve you with your product problems at all hours of the day and night!

You can rest assured if you consider the following points before selecting best audiophile headphone:

Durability

A headphone shouldn't be considered disposable technology. This year's headphones will not be outdated six months from now, unlike almost all other consumer electronics. A pair of good headphones should last at least ten years.
Make sure you check the quality of headphones before purchasing. For example, some earbuds or portable devices can be quite fragile. Are the hinges strong enough to hold the headphones together for storage? Or will they break in just a few months? Remember that headphones' earpads, earbuds, and headphone cables will experience a lot of wear over their lifetime.

Design

The design is often more important than everything. Do you want in-ear or on-ear headphones, as well as over-ear and under-ear models? Wireless or wired? Sporty or luxury? These headphones can be worn for many occasions so you need something that fits your needs. No matter what type of headphones you decide to get, ensure that they are sturdy, lightweight, comfortable, and easy to transport.

Special Features

A lot of earbuds or headphones have bonus features like Dolby Atmos support, spatial audio and adaptive EQ. You can also participate in calls and video calls when they are paired with your phone.
Many of these earbuds can be used with either your phone's native app or a separate app that allows you to locate an errant earbud quickly. Most headphones, however, aren't waterproof or water-resistant.
Consider the audio type and the place you will be listening. Then, pick the headphones that have the most common features and functions.

Headphone Type

Do you prefer a pair of headphones that are sealed or in-ear? Is active noise cancellation technology available in a headphone?
It is important to consider comfort. You might be using your headphone at least 4-5 hours per days. Would you choose a product that is strong but also isolates you well? Would you choose a larger can, which is lighter but still portable, or a smaller can?

Mobile App

Most popular headphones and earbuds have an app that allows you to control your audio experience.
Some apps allow you to pair the device and control the settings, while others let you manually adjust the volume and bass levels of the headphones or earbuds.

Accessories

Accessories are equally important for wired models. The manufacturer should include an aux cable. It is a good idea to get headphones with an carrying case, charger cable, user manual, extra tips, or ear cups.

Audio Quality

The second option is sound. There are many models that offer different sound quality. You want to choose headphones that suit your taste. With the companion app, some models can be customized to produce a sound that suits their needs.

FAQs

If I Lose The Eartips That Came With My Headphones, Do I Need To Purchase A New Pair?

Absolutely, unless you are just trying something different. If you don't have the funds, you can contact the manufacturer to get a replacement pair. It can be frustrating to lose an earbud because they only have one size. Comply has a range of aftermarket tips to suit your brand if you are in an adventurous mood.

What Is The Difference Between Headsets, Headphones, And Earphones?

- A headset is an amalgamation of headphones and microphones. Gaming headsets are most popular.
- Headphones can be worn on the ears or over-ear.
- Earphones can be described as small, earbud-shaped earbuds that are worn inside the ears.

How Do Noise-canceling Headphones Work?

Two types of noise-canceling exist: active and passive. Passive noise cancellation is where noise is blocked by headphones. Earbuds that are too close to your ears, such as over-the-ear or earbuds, can block the sound.
The active noise cancelling headphones feature a microphone to pick up noise and produce an opposing sound wave that blocks it.

Are Wired Headphones Better Than Wireless?

Wireless headphones generally have better sound quality than wired headphones. However, there has been so much advancement in audio technology in the last few years that you won't notice any difference with most of the top wireless headphones.
We recommend that audiophiles keep choosing wired headphones. It's up to you, the individual. Wireless headphones are a good choice if you prefer wireless headphones and they offer more convenience. You won't regret buying a high-quality pair if you want to enjoy the best sound quality.

Does A Higher Price Tag Mean The Headphones Will Sound Better?

Not necessarily. It's surprising that so many people spend hundreds on smartphones but don't want to buy quality headphones. However, you shouldn't assume that all cheap headphones are equal.

Do I Need A Headphone Amplifier?

The quality of portable MP3/CD players' amplifiers can be affected by the headphones you use. They aren't responsible for this. The little guys must power both their electronic devices and internal amplifiers using very few volts. The sound quality of some home AV receivers with headphone jacks can be very variable.

How Do Wireless Headphones Work?

The wireless headphones can be powered by batteries and pair with an infrared or radio signal. Bluetooth technology is available on many devices, which makes it easy to connect and provides high-quality audio.

In general, product information and news are now available to users. In addition, as previously said, the Internet is constantly updated with new technology. Thus, customers will need to be informed so please subscribe to our newsletter or visit our website frequently to check the latest information.

Do you have any product-related questions or concerns you'd like to share? As a result of your efforts, we will attempt to ensure even greater standards of excellence!


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About Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward

Nicolas Ward is an elite author with many years of experience in the music field and the owner of many engaging articles at TheAudioInsights. He studies music production and has many years of passionate research into sound systems. Appearing in many popular newspapers, Nicolas Ward provides useful knowledge and the latest information on music and sound.