HIFIMAN HE-400I Over Ear Full-Size Planar Magnetic Headphones Adjustable Headphone with Comfortable Earpads Open-Back Design Easy Cable Swapping
Brand | HIFIMAN |
Model Name | HE-400I |
Color | Gray |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Connectivity Technology | Wired |
About this item
- Get an extra three-month extended warranty by registering your products on our official website.
- 30% lighter than comparable headphones
- Newly-designed headband with an improved pressure pattern
- The FocusPad, new beveled hybrid ear pads made of pleather and velour
- Intended for high performance listening in the home or studio
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This Item HIFIMAN HE-400I Over Ear Full-Size Planar Magnetic Headphones Adjustable Headphone with Comfortable Earpads Open-Back Design Easy Cable Swapping | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | Currently unavailable. | $149.00$149.00 | $109.00$109.00 | -24% $379.00$379.00 List: $499.00 | -35% $149.95$149.95 List: $229.25 | $149.00$149.00 |
Delivery | — | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 | Get it as soon as Sunday, Mar 31 |
Customer Ratings | ||||||
Sound quality | 4.6 | 4.0 | 4.4 | 4.6 | 4.6 | 4.6 |
Quality of material | 3.9 | 4.4 | 4.0 | 3.7 | 3.8 | 4.4 |
Comfort | 4.3 | 5.0 | 4.4 | 4.0 | 4.4 | — |
Value for money | 4.1 | 3.9 | 4.7 | — | 4.5 | — |
Noise cancellation | — | 3.4 | — | — | 2.7 | 4.0 |
Sold By | — | HIFIMAN | HIFIMAN | GRAMOPHONE | ARF Tech | Amazon.com |
connectivity tech | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired |
headphones form factor | Over Ear | Over Ear | — | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear |
connector type | 3.5mm Jack, 1/4-inch | 6.35mm Jack, 3.5mm Jack | 6.35mm Jack | 3.5mm Jack | 1/4-inch, 3.5mm Jack | 3 5mm Jack |
headphones jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
cable feature | Detachable | Detachable | Detachable | Detachable | Detachable | Detachable |
control type | Media Control | — | Media Control | Media Control | control | Volume Control |
From the manufacturer
Newest Iteration with 3.5mm connectors and steel reinforced yoke
Hifiman today is widely regarded as one of the leading designers and manufacturers of high performance headphones and portable audio devices. Renowned for its critically-acclaimed Planar-Magnetic headphones that feature state-of-the-art driver technology.
- Impedance: 35 Ohm
- Sensitivity: 93dB
- Weight: 370g
- Frequency Response: 20Hz-35KHz
- Cable: 1.5m removable 3.5mm connectors
- Accessories: Display Box, 1/4" Adapter
- Type: Open-Back
Hifiman HE400i Planar Magnetic Open-Back Headphones
The HIFIMAN HE-400i is a high quality, full-size planar magnetic headphone designed for critical listening in the home or studio. At little more than twelve ounces, HE-400i is 30% lighter allowing the listener to comfortably enjoy music for hours on end. In addition, a newly-designed headband and beveled hybrid ear pads provide added comfort and improved sound quality. Its increased efficiency of 93dB allows it to be driven with a modest size amplifier or portable audio player.
- Easy-to-Drive Full-Size Planar Magnetic Headphones created for critical listening at home or in studio listening.
- Improvements in the new generation result in 30% weight reduction and increased sensitivity.
- Planar Magnetic offer extremely low distortion and high signal input as well as excellent transient response.
- Cable and Connections: Dual 3.5mm connections with 1.5m removable cable
- 2018 Product updates: Steel reinforced Headphone Yoke for additional rigidity and support.
The new generation headphone results in additional weight saving and improved sensitivity.
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Planar Magnetic HeadphonesCreated by the innovator of the planar magnetic technology, the Hifiman HE-400i is a high quality, full-size planar magnetic headphone created for critical listening at home or in the studio. The new generation headphone results in additional weight saving and improved sensitivity. |
Striking Contemporary Design
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High Quality Sound
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Using single-ended drivers, the HE400i delivers a lively sound stage and spatial imaging.
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Lively - AgileUsing single-ended drivers, the HE400i delivers a lively sound stage and spatial imaging. Increased efficiency of 93dB allows the HE400i to be driven with a modest size amplifier, portable audio player, or computer. The HE-400i also sounds great on tablets and smartphones but will not offer full volume on portable devices without a portable amplifier. |
Headphone Specifications:
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HE-400i Product Updates (2018)The Hifiman HE-400i has been revised in its most recent iteration with the following changes: 2017-2018: Switched from screw on 2.5mm connectors to 3.5mm plug-in connectors. 2018-2019: Reinforced yoke: Steel reinforcement molded inside the yoke results in additional rigidity while maintaining the same great look. |
A premium cable is included comprised of Crystalline metal with Oxygen-free copper and silver.
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Crystalline Metal 3.5mm CableA premium cable is included comprised of Crystalline metal with Oxygen-free copper and silver.
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Newly-designed HeadbandUpdated and newly-designed headband features improved pressure pattern. Perfect for those long listening sessions. Made of Leatherette and perforated for enhanced comfort. |
Velour / Leatherette EarcupsAt little more than twelve ounces, HE-400i is 30% lighter than comparable planar magnetic headphones allowing the listener to comfortably enjoy music for hours on end. In addition, a newly-designed headband and beveled hybrid ear pads provide added comfort as well as improved sound quality. |
Drop + HIFIMAN HE-35X | Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX | HIFIMAN HE-400i | Massdrop x HIFIMAN Edition XX | |
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Customer Reviews |
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4.2 out of 5 stars
368
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4.2 out of 5 stars
895
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3.7 out of 5 stars
10
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Driver / Design: | Planar Magnetic / Open-back | Planar Magnetic / Open-back | Planar Magnetic / Open-back | Planar Magnetic / Open-back |
Audio Profile: | The HE-35X improves upon the HE-350's frequency response, and balances the treble for a smoother overall sound. | The sound is smooth, engaging, and even across the frequency range, with airy, sparkly highs and the Planar bass slam that HIFIMAN is known for. | The sound is smooth, engaging, and even across the frequency range, with airy, sparkly highs and the Planar bass slam that HIFIMAN is known for. | The sound is airy and spacious, with a transporting level of detail. |
Impedance / Sensitivity: | 19 ohms / 98 dB | 35 ohms / 93 dB | 35 ohms / 93 dB | 20 ohms / 93 dB |
Frequency Response: | 20 Hz - 20 kHz | 20 Hz - 35 kHz | 20 Hz - 35 kHz | 8 Hz - 50 kHz |
Cable: | 4.9 ft (1.5 m), removable | 4.9 ft (1.5 m), removable | 4.9 ft (1.5 m), removable | 5.5 ft (1.7 m), removable |
Plug: | ⅛ in (3.5 mm) with ⅛ in (3.5 mm) to ¼ in (6.35 mm) adapter included | ⅛ in (3.5 mm) with ⅛ in (3.5 mm) to ¼ in (6.35 mm) adapter included | ⅛ in (3.5 mm) with ⅛ in (3.5 mm) to ¼ in (6.35 mm) adapter included | ⅛ in (3.5 mm) |
Weight: | 13.6 oz (385 g) | 13.1 oz (370 g) | 13.1 oz (370 g) | 14.8 oz (420 g) |
Included: | ⅛ in (3.5 mm) to ¼ in (6.35 mm) adapter | ⅛ in (3.5 mm) to ¼ in (6.35 mm) adapter | ⅛ in (3.5 mm) to ¼ in (6.35 mm) adapter | ⅛ in (3.5 mm) to ¼ in (6.35 mm) adapter |
Ideal Use: | Ideally paired with a portable or desktop amp, they sound great directly from your smartphone, laptop, or desktop computer. | Ideally paired with a portable or desktop amp, they sound great directly from your smartphone, laptop, or desktop computer. | Ideally paired with a portable or desktop amp, they sound great directly from your smartphone, laptop, or desktop computer. | With a uniquely low impedance of 20 ohms, the Edition XX is easy to drive from your laptop or portable music player. |
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Product information
Product Dimensions | 8 x 7 x 4.5 inches |
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Item Weight | 13.1 ounces |
ASIN | B00MULH672 |
Item model number | HE400i |
Customer Reviews |
4.2 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #230,087 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #4,830 in Over-Ear Headphones |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | August 19, 2014 |
Manufacturer | HiFiMAn Electronics |
Item Weight | 370 Grams |
Units | 1.0 Count |
Number Of Items | 1 |
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Product Description
Product Description
The HIFIMAN HE-400i is a high quality, full-size planar magnetic headphone designed for critical listening in the home or studio. At little more than twelve ounces, HE-400i is 30% lighter than comparable planar magnetic headphones allowing the listener to comfortably enjoy music for hours on end. In addition, a newly-designed headband and beveled hybrid ear pads provide added comfort as well as improved sound quality. Using single-ended drivers, HE-400i delivers a lifelike soundstage and spatial imaging. Its increased efficiency of 93dB allows it to be driven with a modest size amplifier or can even be used with a portable audio player or smartphone. A premium cable is included comprised of Crystalline metal with Oxygen-free copper and silver. HE-400i features ABS polymer ear cups in a gloss charcoal finish.
From the Manufacturer
The HIFIMAN HE-400i is a high quality, full-size planar magnetic headphone designed for critical listening in the home or studio. At little more than twelve ounces, HE-400i is 30% lighter than comparable planar magnetic headphones allowing the listener to comfortably enjoy music for hours on end. In addition, a newly-designed headband and beveled hybrid ear pads provide added comfort as well as improved sound quality. Using single-ended drivers, HE-400i delivers a lifelike soundstage and spatial imaging. Its increased efficiency of 93dB allows it to be driven with a modest size amplifier or can even be used with a portable audio player or smartphone. A premium cable is included comprised of Crystalline metal with Oxygen-free copper and silver. HE-400i features ABS polymer ear cups in a gloss charcoal finish.
Consumer Alert: For Your Protection HIFIMAN products are sold through carefully selected, authorized retail partners to ensure the highest levels of professionalism and service. HIFIMAN products not sold by us, or one of our authorized partners, cannot be verified as authentic and will not receive the HIFIMAN manufacturer's warranty or factory service. Before purchasing, please verify that you are dealing with an authorized HIFIMAN retail partner. You can do that by checking our official website. Help us help you.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the sound quality, comfort, and value of the headphones. For example, they mention that the bass is deep and tight, the vocals are clear, and the headphones are fantastic. They also say that they feel like a pillow on your head and that the value for money is outstanding. Customers are also satisfied with clarity, and detail level. That said, opinions are mixed on the construction and fit.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the sound quality of the headphones. They say the musicians could be heard clearly, the bass is deep and tight, and the instrument separation is good. The sound quality has stayed remarkably stable, and is perfectly sufficient for their listening needs. The headphones get somewhat loud, but the soundstage collapses. They also say the sound, especially the bass, is amazingly rapid, clear, fast, and aggressive. It opens up the sound stage and improves the sound overall. Customers say the voice seems more natural with the AKG, and they can easily listen for hours with no fatigue whatsoever.
"...I still love these headphones. The sound quality has stayed remarkably stable and they still feel comfortable and like new, even though I use them..." Read more
"...Bass is articulate and not artificially augmented. Treble is well-reproduced, but (see above) the extreme high end is a little harsh at high volume..." Read more
"...feel like a pillow on your head and I can easily listen for hours with no fatigue whatsoever...." Read more
"...They say it opens up the soundstage and improves the sound overall. I haven't tried this yet but I may after a few months of listening...." Read more
Customers like the comfort of the headphones. They mention that it feels like a pillow on their head, and they can easily listen for hours with no fatigue. The nature of the material is incredibly responsive, and it sounds very detailed with great instruments.
"...+ They are comfortable to wear for long periods of time.+ The cord is replaceable, which should help the headphones last longer!..." Read more
"...-y" (just coined that term) sound and are very comfortable to wear for extended periods...." Read more
"...Extremely comfortable to wear. Breathable on your ears...." Read more
"...These feel like a pillow on your head and I can easily listen for hours with no fatigue whatsoever...." Read more
Customers like the quality of the headphones. They say they are amazing, fantastic, and sublime. They also say the midrange is quite pleasing for some genres and the headphones are comfortable. Customers also mention that the connectors and headset frame are great on every level. Overall, customers are happy with their purchase and recommend them to others.
"...make it to 3 years even, but at the price I feel like they are excellent headphones. I'll leave this review at 5 stars.However!..." Read more
"...Both headphones have a very natural, "non-headphone-y" (just coined that term) sound and are very comfortable to wear for extended periods...." Read more
"...-driven music, but for classical and other quality recordings, they are sublime. The definition is superb in the mid-range...." Read more
"...Summary: Best stage I own, best in price range so far, nothing compares. Very deep. (A)..." Read more
Customers appreciate the value of the headphones. They say it is one of the best headphone values, with great sound for a low price. Customers also mention that it is a premium box.
"...now than they were when I bought them, so it's still a pretty attractive value proposition...." Read more
"...I'd recommend them. VERY, very good for the price, as long as they suit your style of listening...." Read more
"...Summary: Best stage I own, best in price range so far, nothing compares. Very deep. (A)..." Read more
"...Comfortable for most people.- Highly discounted recently.Cons:- Cable is way too rigid and attached to both ears...." Read more
Customers are satisfied with the clarity of the headphones. They mention that the mids are clear and not overbearing. They appreciate the crystal clarity, ultra tight and satisfying bass, and lovely highs. They say they can make out the words clearly, and the treble detail is not bad. Customers also mention that footsteps are clear as day, and there is a very clean imaging and soundstage.
"...more I listen, the more I can tell that it's just that the treble and mid are so clear they can be heard better...." Read more
"...style shape with emphasis on the midrange and a stunning clarity. These are not Basshead headphones, period...." Read more
"...The positional accuracy is stellar. Footsteps are clear as day. I do vehicles too, including 1v1 jet dogfighting, with these...." Read more
"...It doesn't fatigue my ears. The mids are clear and not overbearing...." Read more
Customers like the detail level of the headphones. They say there is decent enough presence and detail in the midrange, with vocals, horns, and acoustic guitar are all there. They also say the highs are detailed, rich, and well-balanced. Overall, customers are satisfied with the product's detail level and appreciate the simple design.
"...Yes - 90215 (Original pressing) - Revealing. Faithfully reproduced (even limitations). Vocals and instrumentation sound outstanding...." Read more
"...headphones I know of (M-100, Urbanite, MTH50X) these are far more analytical and clear than other headphones I can compare to especially in the mid..." Read more
"...The 400Is have a very nice, open soundstage. Decent enough presence and detail in the midrange with vocals, horns, and acoustic guitar are all there..." Read more
"...has much greater tonal balance with bass that's more accurate and deeper reaching...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the construction of the headphones. Some mention that the build quality is fantastic, while others say that they have construction quality issues and the yoke is prone to breaking.
"...The joint above the left earcup broke, which makes that side want to bend outward away from my head...." Read more
"...U2 - Achutung Baby - Reveals the production quality, and it isn't very good (The recording, that is). Sloppy recording quality on most tracks...." Read more
"...The cup holders are plastic arms that do not collapse, so they don't really get much smaller, but it's not like these are designed for..." Read more
"...are kinda heavy and weird looking, but I dont care about looks and they are tough...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the fit of the headphones. Some mention that it sits perfectly well on their small head, while others say that it couldn't fit over their ears. The ear pads are too small and shallow to clear their big ears. Overall, the fit can feel a bit cramped.
"...The included cord is a little short...." Read more
"...Breathable on your ears. The band adjustment is pretty good, not tight, but tight enough to keep them from flopping around...." Read more
"...But strangely...it's also pretty short. The right angle at the output end is always good to see, but this is a strange cord to be sure...." Read more
"...Look for either the FocusPad or FocusPad-A. The headband is very wide. Wider than any other headband I've seen...." Read more
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It's now April 2020, 2.5 years into owning these and using them daily. The joint above the left earcup broke, which makes that side want to bend outward away from my head. They are kind of still usable, but only until I order a replacement. I'm debating whether I want to get the same ones again or try something new. They are cheaper now than they were when I bought them, so it's still a pretty attractive value proposition. I'm mildly disappointed that they didn't make it to 3 years even, but at the price I feel like they are excellent headphones. I'll leave this review at 5 stars.
However! I just noticed that they have reinforced the yoke for the 2018-2019 models. That might help this issue. If you're considering these and you're okay with the downsides I mention in the original review, I say go for it!
******9-month update******
I still love these headphones. The sound quality has stayed remarkably stable and they still feel comfortable and like new, even though I use them every day. They are even cheaper now than when I bought them (I got them for ~$220), and I still highly recommend them.
One issue: The cable has some problems. It badly wants to twist and kink, no matter how many times I straighten it out. The cable also seems to be failing somewhere, as the sound cuts out periodically in one or both ears. Thankfully, the cord can easily be replaced, which I intend to do. A lot of headphones would be trashed at this point when the cable goes bad, but the replacement cord should extend the lifespan. I'm disappointed that this is happening only 9 months in, but it ultimately does not significantly tarnish my original 5 star review. Original review below:
****************
Some impressions after about a week with these headphones:
Pros:
+ Sound quality is excellent overall
+ These are by far the clearest headphones I've ever heard. Somehow I never realized that my previous headphones were so... muddled? And I've owned a variety of <$200 headphones and earbuds of different brands.
+ The instruments/parts are distinct. That's the best way I can describe it. Each individual instrument can be easily picked out. It's a nice experience.
+ There's a sense of space - there is height and depth to the music. In one song, I could tell the cymbals were positioned higher than the drums were. Maybe I'm full of it, but it struck me immediately!
+ The EQ is very balanced. If anything, it is skewed toward the treble.
+ I can't hear any distortion or muddling, even from "typical" music sources like Spotify or YouTube.
+ They are comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
+ The cord is replaceable, which should help the headphones last longer!
Cons (ish):
- Initially, I thought the bass was weak. The more I listen, the more I can tell that it's just that the treble and mid are so clear they can be heard better. If you prefer heavy bass boost, you probably won't like these. That being said, I listen to many kinds of music, including rock and metal, and the bass is sufficient for my ears.
- You absolutely could not use these in a public place. They are open-back headphones, so the sound leaks by design. I'm told that's good for sound quality, which may very well be true. I use these at home in my office, so it's not a problem for me, but anyone in the same room would know exactly what I'm listening to. Do not use these around others.
- They might be a touch quiet right out of the box. They were fine for me, but when paired with my Schiit Fulla amp/DAC, they do get louder. It's not a drastic problem, at least from my desktop, but a phone could make it even quieter. If you tend to blast your music at high volumes, you might need a cheap amp or amp/DAC combo.
- The included cord is a little short.
I cannot say much about longevity, since I've only had them a week. They seem well-constructed and I don't have any concerns about build quality so far.
Overall: I am stunned at the quality of the sound these headphones put out. I got them for $220, which is an absolute steal. Others have said they are well worth it at $400 (which is what they used to be), and I don't doubt that a bit. If the open-back design doesn't bother you, bite the bullet and get them!
Brief story: I bought the 400s model about a year ago and thought it was a pretty good set of headphones. But then the cord died on me and I really couldn't bring myself to spend $120 on a replacement cord when I could spend a bit more and upgrade.
I'd originally got the 400s model because I wanted the low impedance/high sensitivity that would be required to listen on an iPod/Samsung S6. So let me be clear on this--do not make the mistake that I made. In order to really perform, the 400s model DOES require at least a modest amp. Yes, they will technically play from a phone, but you have to have the volume turned up about 90% or you're listening to some pretty quiet music. Or maybe I just listen to my music too loud. The headphone amp built into some AVRs would probably be enough to push the headphones, however, (I have a Yamaha VX-677 and it works fine.) so if you're looking for headphones to fulfill that purpose, these would suffice. (To listen on a phone or pc, I got the Oppo HA-2 amp, which literally doubled the cost of the headphones.)
After far too many hours of deliberation, I decided not to try another brand and just upgrade to the next HiFiMan model. The 400s did satisfy me enough to remain loyal to the company. At the time of the 400i purchase, they were $299 on Amazon, which is a steal. If you can get them at this price, do it. Absolutely do it. I doubt you'll find a better headphone at that price.
I read another review on Amazon comparing the two models, and I find that I definitely concur with his assessment. The primary differences between the 400i and 400s will not be noticeable to the casual listener, aside from the fact that the 400s will play "louder" from a source putting out the same volume. However, if you're looking at headphones in this price range at all, you are likely NOT a casual listener.
What it comes down to is do you prefer a warmer sound, or a more clinical sound?
The 400s is definitely warmer. I imagine that this is partially attributed to the lower impedance (22 Ohms vs 35 Ohms). I listen to a lot of music that tends to really challenge speakers/headphones (Grindcore, for example. Anaal Nathrakh) so I favor the 400i's cleaner, more exacting approach.
In a nutshell, that is the difference between these two headphones. Both headphones have a very natural, "non-headphone-y" (just coined that term) sound and are very comfortable to wear for extended periods. As they are open-backed, they bleed sound like crazy and are therefore definitely not suitable for plane rides or environments of that nature. Conversely, they also do not isolate your ears from the outside world. You can hear everything going on around you. Though they are capable of a very wide range, they have a relatively flat frequency response. If you want bass, you do not want either of these headphones. You really are looking for something close-backed. That is not to say that the bass that is offered is underwhelming--quite the opposite! I find it to be absolutely perfect for music like metal or classical. Both models have just enough bass to give the music some real "body." They just will not suit the stratospheric bass tastes of hip hop or EDM listeners. Nothing played is overwhelming, the mids (and specifically, vocals) are brought forward to a very clear and immediate presence. The highs are crisp but not bright, and are well-separated (which I really like because I can't stand over-baked treble).
I can't imagine what HiFiMan's or Audeze's flagship offerings sound like. It must be incredible, because these babies are wonderful. I have yet to detect any real distortion in the 400i model. By reading all of the above, you might mistake me for describing these as monitor 'phones. They are not. These are built to entertain and please. They deliver music and movies the way the artists intend for you to receive them. They both offer an enveloping, emotional sound experience unsurpassed at this price range. So again, the decision between the two is: clinical accuracy (400i) or warmth (400s). I doubt you will be disappointed with either.
**Be advised that planar magnetic headphones do require some break-in time. Don't even bother listening to them as soon as you pull them out of the box, because they will sound nothing like they will after breaking in. Plug an ipod into them, play a looping playlist (doesn't have to be loud), and set them on a shelf for a couple days. Oddly, the 400s took about 120 hours to break in, whereas the 400i was ready in about 50. I figured it would have been the other way around.
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Resumen
Excelente calidad de sonido en general, muy abierto, textura y timbre genial, muy detallado, excelente soundstage, posicionamiento(imaging) y separación de instrumentos, gran rendimiento de bajos bien controlados, medios cálidos y placenteros, agudos detallados, aunque algunas veces pueden ser filosos y molestos, sobresaliente construcción de la estructura metálica de la diadema(headband), buena estructura de plástico reforzado de los sujetadores de las carcasas(yokes), excelente construcción de polímero ABS de las carcasas(housing) y magnífica construcción de los drivers(imanes y membrana), mala calidad del cable, las almohadillas se despegan del aro de plástico que las sujeta, la banda de piel sintética(headstrap) de la diadema(headband) se descarapela, buena respuesta de la compañía por garantía.
La razón por la que le doy 5 estrellas aún teniendo características en contra es porque en verdad amo su sonido.
PROS:
* Excelente calidad de sonido en lo general
* Excelente soundstage, posicionamiento(imaging) y separación.
* Bajos presentes, bien controlados y con excelente textura(firma de sonido magnético planar).
* Buena extensión de bajos sub bass, sin ser exagerada.
* Bajos sólidos y bien controlados.
* Revelan muchos detalles.
* Medios cálidos y espaciados.
* Agudos espaciados.
* Timbre increíble.
* Generan muy poca fatiga auditiva(con pequeña modificación).
* Excelente clamp force(fuerza de agarre a tu cabeza).
* Muy cómodos.
* Se pueden amplificar(drive) con iPhone u otros dispositivos portables (35 Ohms).
* Extraordinario valor por el precio(probablemente no encuentres nada mejor en ese rango).
* Buenos audífonos para segunda referencia en mezcla y masterización, revelan una buena o mala producción de audio.
* Sonido neutral con respuesta considerablemente plana.
* La empresa respondió muy bien por garantía de cable y almohadillas.
CONTRAS:
* Agudos a veces filosos y molestos
* Construcción de la banda de piel sintética de la cabeza(headstrap) defectuosa después de un tiempo.
* Construcción de las almohadillas defectuosa después de un tiempo
* El cable es muy delicado y se daña rápidamente.
Pros.
El sonido es genial, muy abierto, bien balanceado y neutral, tienen mucha claridad, su textura es placentera y cálida sin dejar de ser excelentes para la escucha crítica y analítica, el soundstage es sobresaliente, el posicionamiento y la separación son justos, generan excelente sensación tridimensional, tienen buena profundidad y altura pero no a un grado impresionante. Los bajos son bien controlados y concisos, muy rara vez llegan a ser retumbantes(boomy bass) o exagerados(depende de la canción obviamente, hay canciones con sub bass muy difuso y molesto), por el contrario, son nítidos y exquisitos, la extensión del sub bass es buena, aunque no son audífonos con bajos monstruosos. Los medios son cálidos, orgánicos y presentes, exponen muy bien las voces y los instrumentos acústicos, revelan muchos detalles y proporcionan momentos muy placenteros. Los agudos son espaciosos y con buena textura aunque, aquí encontramos uno de sus problemas, en muchas canciones son filosos y molestan al oído, creando fatiga auditiva, lo que yo hice para solucionar este problema fue agregar un pedazo de fieltro al fondo de las almohadillas, encima de la tela delgada que da al driver, como lo hace Massdrop en sus Ether CX o Dan Clark(Mr. Speakers) en sus Ether C flow, y problema resuelto, no generan fatiga auditiva en lo absoluto y puedo escuchar música por horas, aunque se pierde una minucia de soundstage, pero en realidad vale la pena este truco. Creo que con esta modificación el sonido en todo el espectro es redondo y sin fallas y tendrás una experiencia audiófila sin ninguna duda.
También me han funcionado como referencia de audífonos en mezcla y masterización, tienen una respuesta considerablemente plana y reflejan bien lo que está en la producción, aunque es injusto lo que voy a hacer, pero comparándolos con monitores de estudio como los JBL LSR305, no son tan distantes en neutralidad, digamos que están al 70% de su neutralidad y comparándolos con audífonos de estudio como los Beyerdynamic DT770, son por mucho mejores para analizar y tomar decisiones en general.
Contras.
El cable que viene es muy delicado, a mi se me daño como a los seis meses, fuí cuidadoso con él pero no de forma extrema y obsesiva y se daño muy rápido, a lo que me puse en contacto con la empresa para exigir garantía y respondieron de inmediato enviándome un cable idéntico de reemplazo, ahora cuido mi cable de reemplazo de forma exagerada y obsesiva, jamás lo aplasto, doblo imprudentemente o enredo y afortunadamente me ha durado 2 años, pero continuamente estoy con la preocupación de que empiece a fallar. Ahora bien, las almohadillas se despegaron del aro que les da forma como al año y dos meses, y el producto estaba a fuera o casi fuera de la garantía, no recuerdo bien, pero contacte a Hifiman y me enviaron un repuesto sin problemas desde China, cabe resaltar que yo soy muy cuidadoso con mis productos y nunca abusaba de las almohadillas jalándolas o quitándomelas de golpe, todo era suavemente. Y la última sorpresa que tuve, fue que la banda de piel sintética que va sobre la cabeza se empezó a descarapelar de arriba y a soltar levemente de abajo, como a los 2 años 6 meses de uso(en las fotos se aprecia), y como ya estaba fuera de la garantía, no reclame nada, resalto que jamás la expuse al sol y no vivo en una zona con clima extremo. Otra cosa es que las almohadillas son difíciles de quitar y de poner así que tengan cuidado, porque se pueden desprender del aro. El cable es de 1.5 metros y podría dar problemas de largo para quien tiene su equipo de sonido en escritorio pretende grabar conectandolos a una interfaz con ellos.
Conclusión
Una maravilla de audífonos con sonido exquisito y abierto, rico en detalles y prestaciones acústicas(soundstage, separación, posicionamiento, rango dinámico), se puede manejar con dispositivos portátiles debido a su bajo Ohmiaje. No he encontrado algún otro producto de ese nivel y que en reseñas hablen tan bien de él por ese precio, y encima de todo esto, ahora Hifiman ha lanzado la versión 2020 a 170 dólares, y según la compañía, tiene los mismos drivers pero con diferente headband y aros(yokes) de donde se agarran los cascos(housing).
Reviewed in Mexico on May 27, 2021
Resumen
Excelente calidad de sonido en general, muy abierto, textura y timbre genial, muy detallado, excelente soundstage, posicionamiento(imaging) y separación de instrumentos, gran rendimiento de bajos bien controlados, medios cálidos y placenteros, agudos detallados, aunque algunas veces pueden ser filosos y molestos, sobresaliente construcción de la estructura metálica de la diadema(headband), buena estructura de plástico reforzado de los sujetadores de las carcasas(yokes), excelente construcción de polímero ABS de las carcasas(housing) y magnífica construcción de los drivers(imanes y membrana), mala calidad del cable, las almohadillas se despegan del aro de plástico que las sujeta, la banda de piel sintética(headstrap) de la diadema(headband) se descarapela, buena respuesta de la compañía por garantía.
La razón por la que le doy 5 estrellas aún teniendo características en contra es porque en verdad amo su sonido.
PROS:
* Excelente calidad de sonido en lo general
* Excelente soundstage, posicionamiento(imaging) y separación.
* Bajos presentes, bien controlados y con excelente textura(firma de sonido magnético planar).
* Buena extensión de bajos sub bass, sin ser exagerada.
* Bajos sólidos y bien controlados.
* Revelan muchos detalles.
* Medios cálidos y espaciados.
* Agudos espaciados.
* Timbre increíble.
* Generan muy poca fatiga auditiva(con pequeña modificación).
* Excelente clamp force(fuerza de agarre a tu cabeza).
* Muy cómodos.
* Se pueden amplificar(drive) con iPhone u otros dispositivos portables (35 Ohms).
* Extraordinario valor por el precio(probablemente no encuentres nada mejor en ese rango).
* Buenos audífonos para segunda referencia en mezcla y masterización, revelan una buena o mala producción de audio.
* Sonido neutral con respuesta considerablemente plana.
* La empresa respondió muy bien por garantía de cable y almohadillas.
CONTRAS:
* Agudos a veces filosos y molestos
* Construcción de la banda de piel sintética de la cabeza(headstrap) defectuosa después de un tiempo.
* Construcción de las almohadillas defectuosa después de un tiempo
* El cable es muy delicado y se daña rápidamente.
Pros.
El sonido es genial, muy abierto, bien balanceado y neutral, tienen mucha claridad, su textura es placentera y cálida sin dejar de ser excelentes para la escucha crítica y analítica, el soundstage es sobresaliente, el posicionamiento y la separación son justos, generan excelente sensación tridimensional, tienen buena profundidad y altura pero no a un grado impresionante. Los bajos son bien controlados y concisos, muy rara vez llegan a ser retumbantes(boomy bass) o exagerados(depende de la canción obviamente, hay canciones con sub bass muy difuso y molesto), por el contrario, son nítidos y exquisitos, la extensión del sub bass es buena, aunque no son audífonos con bajos monstruosos. Los medios son cálidos, orgánicos y presentes, exponen muy bien las voces y los instrumentos acústicos, revelan muchos detalles y proporcionan momentos muy placenteros. Los agudos son espaciosos y con buena textura aunque, aquí encontramos uno de sus problemas, en muchas canciones son filosos y molestan al oído, creando fatiga auditiva, lo que yo hice para solucionar este problema fue agregar un pedazo de fieltro al fondo de las almohadillas, encima de la tela delgada que da al driver, como lo hace Massdrop en sus Ether CX o Dan Clark(Mr. Speakers) en sus Ether C flow, y problema resuelto, no generan fatiga auditiva en lo absoluto y puedo escuchar música por horas, aunque se pierde una minucia de soundstage, pero en realidad vale la pena este truco. Creo que con esta modificación el sonido en todo el espectro es redondo y sin fallas y tendrás una experiencia audiófila sin ninguna duda.
También me han funcionado como referencia de audífonos en mezcla y masterización, tienen una respuesta considerablemente plana y reflejan bien lo que está en la producción, aunque es injusto lo que voy a hacer, pero comparándolos con monitores de estudio como los JBL LSR305, no son tan distantes en neutralidad, digamos que están al 70% de su neutralidad y comparándolos con audífonos de estudio como los Beyerdynamic DT770, son por mucho mejores para analizar y tomar decisiones en general.
Contras.
El cable que viene es muy delicado, a mi se me daño como a los seis meses, fuí cuidadoso con él pero no de forma extrema y obsesiva y se daño muy rápido, a lo que me puse en contacto con la empresa para exigir garantía y respondieron de inmediato enviándome un cable idéntico de reemplazo, ahora cuido mi cable de reemplazo de forma exagerada y obsesiva, jamás lo aplasto, doblo imprudentemente o enredo y afortunadamente me ha durado 2 años, pero continuamente estoy con la preocupación de que empiece a fallar. Ahora bien, las almohadillas se despegaron del aro que les da forma como al año y dos meses, y el producto estaba a fuera o casi fuera de la garantía, no recuerdo bien, pero contacte a Hifiman y me enviaron un repuesto sin problemas desde China, cabe resaltar que yo soy muy cuidadoso con mis productos y nunca abusaba de las almohadillas jalándolas o quitándomelas de golpe, todo era suavemente. Y la última sorpresa que tuve, fue que la banda de piel sintética que va sobre la cabeza se empezó a descarapelar de arriba y a soltar levemente de abajo, como a los 2 años 6 meses de uso(en las fotos se aprecia), y como ya estaba fuera de la garantía, no reclame nada, resalto que jamás la expuse al sol y no vivo en una zona con clima extremo. Otra cosa es que las almohadillas son difíciles de quitar y de poner así que tengan cuidado, porque se pueden desprender del aro. El cable es de 1.5 metros y podría dar problemas de largo para quien tiene su equipo de sonido en escritorio pretende grabar conectandolos a una interfaz con ellos.
Conclusión
Una maravilla de audífonos con sonido exquisito y abierto, rico en detalles y prestaciones acústicas(soundstage, separación, posicionamiento, rango dinámico), se puede manejar con dispositivos portátiles debido a su bajo Ohmiaje. No he encontrado algún otro producto de ese nivel y que en reseñas hablen tan bien de él por ese precio, y encima de todo esto, ahora Hifiman ha lanzado la versión 2020 a 170 dólares, y según la compañía, tiene los mismos drivers pero con diferente headband y aros(yokes) de donde se agarran los cascos(housing).
Regardless, I still couldn't forget the impression planar driver headphones left on me. I have (or had) Sennheiser HD280, HD215, HD380, Urbanites, Beyerdynamic DT770, Treblab Z2 & X5, Sony MX1000m2 and my NAD Visos as closed cans for pleasure and/or studio, but wanted to upgrade my only open cans since 20 years, the popular Koss Portapros, which I leave connected to my desktop for gaming, audio recording and browsing. I didn't want to spend too much and wanted decent bass, even if I'm not a basshead. Mission accomplished with these 400i's.
As soon as I plugged them in to my studio soundcard, I was pretty impressed... I let them burn in a few hours and the improvement was quite noticeable, even after only a few more hours too. I'm letting them burn in a good 100-150 hours before I report back or give my final impressions. I also have a Dragonfly Red that had about the same audio quality as my soundcard. Even straight out of a mobile device they sound pretty good.
Are they perfect? No, no headphones are... Will I stop buying more headphones for the moment? Definitely... Are they the best headphones I've owned to date? Quite possibly, but I won't use them exclusively as sometimes I want a more relaxed listening experience and/or I need closed backs and/or something more portable and/or ANC, etc..
Although the soundstage is perfectly fine for the price, I would have liked it to be even bigger, although separation is excellent. I don't mind the fact that they are so open, because I got them for that as I like to be able to hear what is going on with my family in the house if even I've got cans on. I will also generally use them in my basement with my desktop studio soundcard or on my iPhone/iPad with my Dragonfly Red or without.
18 days later: yeah these are killer... Comfy, great detail, not for bass heads but instead they offer sufficient bass which is very clear and musical. If I were a bass player they would easily help me pick out bass lines. Amplification is highly, highly recommended, if not a must.
I am no audiophile, koss kph30i was my first entry to better headphone. Had tried some of the higher end headphone demo in store (including sennheiser HD800, ananda, focal elegia and AKG 702).
using the new 400i with a cheapo entry AMP/DAC ibasso DC05 connect to my laptop USB port. I am able to drive up to very loud level at windows system volume about 50% (even my wife ask me are you deaf, I kept explaining that this is an open back headphone to her, therefore the sound leak).
in comparison with kph30i ----
Bass- kph30i has more bass in term of volume, however 30i sounds much so muddy in comparison with the 400i, 400i has more well defined low to mid bass, can't comment about sub -bass I don't listen to enough heavy bass music for me to tell the difference. However 400i is definitely not "light in bass", 400i has more bass than Ananda
midrange - vocal is very smooth, definitely more forward, and more "out of head" feeling. Both female and male vocal sounds very clean. Oh God the natural timbre of instruments, I don't think I can go back to dynamic driver headphone for now (except focal perhaps.....)
treble - nothing to complain, I don't hear much sibliance that was mentioned by some reviewer
soundstage - 400i is slightly wider than kph30i, however it has SOOO MUCHH more depth,
I can hear different instruments placed one in front of another occupying the same horizontal spot. however the instrument on the left and right extreme sounds a little bit too close to my ear
I prefer this sweet spot (not too wide) over AKG 702 -which everything sounds too far away.
Ananda has better soundstage, however....does it sound 4 times better (x4 price)? I don't think so .
imaging - just perfect!! feels I am listen to indie band performing in a speakeasy bar than in a grand concert.
I guess this is the end game for me for now.
Aber zunächst etwas Grundlagen:
Magnetostatische Kopfhörer sind in Bezug auf die Verstärkung in der Regel nicht ganz anspruchslos, weshalb es von Hifiman ja auch Kopfhörerverstärker gibt bzw. der HE 400s auf höhere Empfindlichkeit bei niedriger Impedanz getrimmt wurde, um auch an mobilen Geräten ausreichend laut (vor allem im Bassbereich, wo die meiste Energie benötigt wird) spielen zu können. Deshalb ist bei der klanglichen Beurteilung auch zu berücksichtigen, an welchem Gerät der Kopfhörer gehört wurde.
Um eine möglichst kurze Strecke zwischen Musikquelle (CD, LP, file) ohne weitere Einflüsse von Kabeln, Vorverstärkern etc. zu ermöglichen, wurden die Hörtests hier durchgeführt mit:
- CD via EMT 982,
- Streaming/Festplatte via Thinkpad mit Audioquest Dragonfly red V 1.0 an Jitterbug,
- Analog via EMT 938.
Der Klangeindruck war an allen Geräten sehr ausgewogen, mit super aufgelösten Mitten und Höhen (die m.E. nicht zurückhaltend sondern schlicht und einfach sehr fein aufgelöst sind, so dass sie weniger prägnant sind als üblich - übrigens eine Effekt, der auch beim Manger-Wandler zu finden ist und aufgrund der ihm, zu unrecht, eine Höhenschwäche angedichtet wurde). Die räumliche Auflösung ist ebenfalls superb, eine Kompression auf Puppentheatergröße war hier nicht auszumachen. Der Bass ist sauber, alles andere als aufgebläht und - gerade für eine Folie - ausreichend tief. Ok, ein Ultrasone Pro 900 hat da deutlich mehr Druck untenrum und rockt hier strammer ab, wo hier allerdings das "Richtige" liegt ist, wie immer bei Komponentenbeurteilungen, nicht festzulegen, es sei denn, man hat mit im Studio gesessen bei der Aufnahme, und also eher Geschmacksache. Kleinere Differenzen fanden sich, erwartungsgemäß, bei der Bassfülle bei Anschluss an die verschiedenen Geräte, wobei der Bass etwas tiefer, straffer und fülliger an den EMT-Geräten daher kam, was dann wohl an den etwas potenteren Treiberstufen liegt (s.o.), was aber auch bedeutet, dass durch geschickte Auswahl des Kopfhörerverstärkers Einfluss auf den Bass genommen werden kann. Soviel zum Klang.
Zur Verarbeitung muss hier nicht mehr viel gesagt werden, sie könnte tatsächlich etwas präziser ausgeführt sein, was sich aber lediglich auf die Ohrpolsternähte bezieht (Ersatz- und Alternativohrpolster gibt es auch, z.B. bei Sieveking). Sonst ist alles so wie's sein soll und funktioniert tadellos. Die bemängelten 1,5 m Anschlusskabel (in der Länge völlig ausreichend für Tischbetrieb) sind immerhin aus versilbertem OFC-Kupfer, und die Anschlussmöglichkeiten bieten sogar Optionen für symmetrische Verstärkerausgänge: was will man mehr?
Am Tragekomfort ist nun mal aber auch gar nichts auszusetzen: die Gabel hat genau den richtigen Anpressdruck, dass der Hörer gut anliegt aber auch kein Kopfdruckgefühl gemacht, und das Gewicht ist, gerade für einen Magnetostaten, angenehm gering. Der alte DT 880 sitzt auch nicht besser und der Ultrasone ist dagegen ein echter Klotz am Kopf.
Insgesamt ein toller Kopfhörer, daher die volle Punktzahl (trotz der einen schiefen Naht am Ohrpolster, die aber rein optischer Natur ist und Funktion wie Tragekomfort in keiner Weise beeinträchtigt).
Zum Schluss noch ein, zwei Anspieltips: Temptation von Holly Cole, da ist alles drauf was es braucht: Bass, Frauenstimme, feine Hochtonimpulse und Raum. Und wer es gerne live mag: e.s.t. live in Hamburg, und zum Abschluss noch ein wenig Renaud Garcia-Fons mit Alborea oder Arcoluz, und alles ist schön :-) .
Ach, noch eines: die Einspielzeit wird mit 150 Stunden angegeben. Das ist ernst gemeint!