I've just been informed by HiFiMan that the HE400SE is now shipping with the HE4XX cable (which is much better) so you can ignore my cable concerns in this review! 🙂
@siderion673 жыл бұрын
Is there any way to distinct package version with new cable without opening the box?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Not that I know of, but I've not seen both.
@7sukuyomi2 жыл бұрын
Hey I have a question, what dac should I use with the he400se. I'm new to this stuff,
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
The HE400SE is relatively easy to drive and not overly picky with sources so anything from a well powered dongle DAC like the NextDrive Spectra X or EarMen Sparrow would be a start. Or you could look at a stack like a Schiit Magni / Modi or Topping E30 / L30
@7sukuyomi2 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Would something like the Sonata HD ii be enough to power it?
@aradhyamohapatra62923 жыл бұрын
The hood should have a blue headphone like the one in the passion for sound logo so that everytime a person pulls it on it looks as if the person is wearing an headphone and the front of the hoodie should have "Always Neutral".
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I like the idea. Unfortunately my printing options are limited to centre front, centre back and maybe sleeve at the shoulder. I tend to favour chest or back designs. I like the "Always neutral" idea though and I could do that. Thanks for the suggestion!
@aradhyamohapatra62923 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound You are welcome. A small suggestion putting a frequency response graph for a neutral sound in the background of "Always Neutral" might make it better.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Nice addition. Perhaps I could take it further again and have a range available: neutral, warm, v-shaped, etc. Or maybe "basshead" with a graph, always neutral with a graph and "treble head" with a graph. What do you think?
@aradhyamohapatra62923 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Yeah, I think it is a great idea since it makes the merch more personalised for the buyer.
@ndMaikel Жыл бұрын
Sennheiser hd560s vs Hifiman He400se I am still comparing them for days side by side. I'm just a casual listener who appreciates the "great" sound. I'll try to explain the sound. I use the Soundblaster AE-5 btw. Hifiman HE400SE needs a great amp! I kinda love the treble/highs here... it's so smooth and also clear. Mids need EQ around 2 Khz (+2db to +4 db). Vocals are clear but a little bit laid back compared to HD560s, but still very present. Bass responses are crisps and tight similar to HD560s. To my ears, the HE400se has a very "creamy" sound after EQ and with an amp. You just enjoy the creamy dessert with its flavours. The sound is also more around your head and stays there "airy". It tries to hug you, but it depends on you if you allow it or not. Like: Treble/Highs smooth and overall easier to listen to Bass extension and the ?vibrations? It's not that tight like the HD560s Spacious sound, but sometimes voice etc. sound not that close Sennheiser HD560s do not necessarily need an amp. Treble here is a little bit too much and harsh sometimes around 4KHz. I personally dropped this area by about -2db. Mids are very crystal clear and I love voices here, for me the best part. Bass are kinda similar to HE400se but maybe a tiny bit tighter with a little bit more "spiky" punch, like how the highs are (bass sometimes a little bit too clean/clinical). Overall, they are more "spicy" and make you more aware and cautious of different sounds so it can get quite sweaty. The sound tries to get into your head with spikes and spices. Sometimes it forces you to listen (less chill than HE400se). Like: Mids with crystal clear voices Closer to the ears but still with soundstage (not too narrow) Tight sound (sometimes too clean like the bass -> makes harder to vibe) Light on the head
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing such detailed impressions!
@04yellowjacket3 жыл бұрын
Excellent review as usual. Thank you for mentioning headroom. This detail is not discussed enough. So many (most really) reviewers NEVER mention this very important detail. This is vital for the overall dynamics of the sound, particularly for quality and accurate bass reproduction. Also you are NOT exaggerating at all about the HiFiman cables. When I opened the box to my Ananda, I thought someone had stolen the real cables and replaced them with catheter parts from their medical supply cabinet. Dreadful indeed. I started ordering and using Hart Audio Cables recently and they are the best value in custom cables I have encountered. I now have them for several sets of headphones and share one 'Multi-kit 1' connector set for all. Using these cables makes you feel smart for not wasting money on other (objectively the same) vastly more expensive, yet less versatile options.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Glad you liked the review! The Hart cables are great for budget and mid-fi gear.
@guillermoleoni Жыл бұрын
Nice review, love that you put the mW needed for handle the headphones! Bravo! Now rhe price in Amazon is $109 USD
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
Thanks GL. That's an amazing price!
@mayonotes98492 жыл бұрын
I was able to find a 2nd hand one that's rarely used selling for around $76. Can't wait to experience my first open back headphone and first planar magnetic headphone. I do have the Topping NX3s AMP to power it.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Hope you love it!
@mayonotes98492 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Thanks. It's interesting how the China version or V1 costs less than the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro here.
@kojen1901 Жыл бұрын
@@mayonotes9849 How is it now?
@mayonotes9849 Жыл бұрын
@@kojen1901 Pretty good for the price I'll say. The planar timbre is rather noticeable which makes some tracks sound off in certain parts, but they do make orchestras sound really nice.
@kojen1901 Жыл бұрын
@@mayonotes9849 Thank fyi! I'm getting a 2nd hand one almost the same price as you, hope it goes well
@lrmcatspaw17 ай бұрын
I bought the 400SE and after a few weeks of testing I would say it is very similar to the original HE-400 in some aspects, while improving on others, and worse in a few. 1. The lower distortion makes the highs not so fatiguing. (but they STILL are eventually) 2. Significantly lighter. 3. Better detail. (probably due to highs being a bit too aggressive, and I do mean A BIT). 4. Bass slam/impact and presence is weaker than HE-400. 5. Requires A LOT of power, the LCD-2F are easier to drive than this. 6. Tonality is better than HE-400, but the HE-400 was more "fun" (until you had a headache from the high distortion in the highs). To me, this is "The perfect headphone" for traveling and similar stuff where you have a high chance of eventually damaging your headphone. Without a portable amp its not as good, but it is still better than most cheap headphones and even something like and SMSL Idea or a Cowon Plenue D sounds decent with these cans. Last thing is I hate the headband. I have a non regular head shape (like a small higher point at the center of my head) and that does not work well with this headband. Lucky the headphone is light enough that the head cups can keep it in place by the pressure on the face when I don't move.
@PassionforSound7 ай бұрын
Thanks for sharing your experiences in such detail!
@ThePCForever3 жыл бұрын
Been waiting for this video for a long time. Thanks for another great review! :)
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Thanks CS!
@KeithCopeland7782 жыл бұрын
Excellent review!!! The more reviews of these headphones, the more I'm inclined to buy them!!!
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
They're amazing for the price and hard to go wrong with
@brothatwasepic2 жыл бұрын
Hi guys. I just got the HE400SE for 150CAD! and it sounds significantly more resolving with a fiio btr5 on Bluetooth compared to my $700 Airpods Max on Bluetooth! It's a huge difference in timbre tonality and resolution. Two completely different uses but just wanted to share for sound quality
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for sharing your experiences. A wired connection with a good headphone is still significantly better than Bluetooth. Glad you got to try that for yourself and enjoy the results 🙂
@brothatwasepic2 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound thanks!
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
My pleasure
@dtz10004 ай бұрын
People always say it sounds better with an amp and I've always been disappointed when I buy one and find out it sounds the same.
@brothatwasepic4 ай бұрын
@dtz1000 yes some headphones are definitely easier to drive so you don't hear as much of a difference on especially mainstream (whatever that means haha) solid state amps, etc. Thanks to Lachlan I now have a Susvara HE1000SE trade-up via Hifiman and Chord Dave and A90. You will notice quite big jumps in quality on certain headphones especially with a top tier DAC and Amp but the diminishing returns are of course exponential. Have a good one
@DarrellDucharme2 жыл бұрын
How do you like He400se compared to the 4xx? Does the 4xx have more soundstage?
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I think I'd sold the HE4XX by the time I reviewed the 400SE, but I thought the 4XX and 400i 2020 were about the same level while the 400SE is better so I'd choose the 400SE out of all three options
@DarrellDucharme2 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Man, I have both right now and am trying to convince myself to keep the SE's but to me the 4XX has a better wider soundstage, are fuller and I can hear more background instruments with it. The SE's are more comfortable and sound good but don't sound, I guess I could say "different" Do I have faulty ears? Lol
@anujdatar20103 жыл бұрын
Hi mate. Love every single one of your reviews! Always like seeing an aussie in the scene too (I'm from brisi). My idea for a hoodie design would be showing a frequency measurement graph that looks like a heart beat graph. This would convey how our passion for music runs in our hearts. I'm a architecture and graphic design student right not so I would even love to work with you to design it if you wanted. Even if it's not my idea :)
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Hi Anuj and thanks for the great idea! I actually just announced my main winner and I'm workshopping one other idea that might get an unexpected runner-up prize. Strangely enough, the winner actually had quite a similar idea to yours. In his case, it was the suggestion of using the waveform of the word "passion" so along similar lines. I loved the idea (and yours too) so that took the prize and is probably too close to yours for me to do both. I really appreciate the suggestion and the support from a fellow Aussie. Thanks so much for commenting!! 🙂
@RUMBLEGO12 жыл бұрын
I really appreciate that you take the time to answer questions. Well done and I am enjoying your reviews very much. Thank you. Awaiting arrival on these. First foray into planar-magnetics. Sticking my big toe in the pool to see what these are all about.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
All part of the service 🙂 Hope you love your first taste of planar goodness!
@RUMBLEGO12 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Well I am stunned at how good these sound. I am also relieved to find out i can drive them with my first version Ifi Zen Dac unbalanced. That is only 230mW. The furthest i need to have them is at 2 o'clock on the dial. Listening to various tracks that is plenty loud, clean and punchy sound for me. Pleasantly surprised. That being said i am awaiting arrival of my first balanced cable which will boost it to 330mW. After hearing how good these sound i am going to try the Sundara 2020. Going to take advantage of the 30 day return window policy to try some of these. Just wanted to report back on my findings. I think (know) i have just been bitten by the planar bug. Uh oh....hah.
@RUMBLEGO12 жыл бұрын
Also wanted to add that there was an added cable to my purchase. The horrendous silver cable everyone talks about is indeed that. There is a very noticeable treble difference using that cable. The other cable looks like it may be the one they ship with the Sundara. Will find out soon if that is the case. Regardless, i prefer the sound with that cable. Will swap back again to test but without question the silver cable brings out more highs. And the debate about cables not making a difference in sound continues? Really??
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
That's great news, Craig! So glad you're enjoying them. Hopefully the balanced connection helps improve the sound further, but just to prevent any confusion, they don't need anymore power and balanced isn't inherently better, but often, balanced amps have lower quality single-ended output and that's why the balanced will likely sound better. Hope you love the Sundaras too! (I think you will)
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
The cable debate is a bit funny, isn't it when it's so evident on cables like the HE400SE. I think the other cable you have is from the HE4XX and the Sundara might be different again.
@thevindictive61455 ай бұрын
Was gonna get a dongle DAC for these headphones, now I am getting the Fiio k5 desktop DAC and amp combo, to drive the HE400se. Yes they come with decent cables now, black rubber ones. Not the sliver ones you just shown. I really hope I am investing in decent sound compared to my current soundcore q30. Paid US 45 for the headphones and US 80 for the Fiio K5. So its really affordable.
@PassionforSound5 ай бұрын
I think you'll be very happy with the results. Enjoy!
@taipan752 жыл бұрын
Late to the party. Howevwr... What a super review, comprehensive but yet to the point. Excellent, thank you!!!! Have the DT 990s but gonna invest in these Hifimans. 👍👍
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Glad you liked the review. Hope you love the 400s!
@JagdeepSingh-sy2mh3 жыл бұрын
I followed your advice and bought the Copper cable with 2.5 balanced plug. Improved my SQ quite abit and to my liking. Thanks.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
That's great news! Glad you're liking the sound better
@SakuraMorandi Жыл бұрын
Why so many people claim they have no bass? I came from DT 770Pro 250 and tried Phillips X2HR and they have way to much bass and the highs are brittle. Still so many good reviews. But HE400SE is another league.
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
Glad you're enjoying the 400SE. It's all relative in the end to your reference point and we also do all hear a little differently due to our different ear anatomy (size and shape of ear canals, etc.)
@jb6789012 жыл бұрын
For only $130 delivered on AliEx, I pulled the trigger on the HE400SE; without pause. Cannot wait for this headphone to arrive! Ordered a 1.4m OpenHeart cable ($13) just in case this unit comes with the cable shown in this video.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Hopefully you'll get the new cable, but glad you're covered either way. Hope you love the new cans (I think you will) 🙂
@gogoawy3 жыл бұрын
your voice only worth my sub. Keep making video with that great deep voice of yours :D
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Haha. Thank you. It's my "there's a baby sleeping in the room next door" voice 🙂
@Aniki91PL3 жыл бұрын
Hi! For the design : A headphone with a band with 'Passion for Sound' on a head without hair. Under this drawing is written 'That is the Way!'. Et voilà! :D
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Lol (at the "et voila" not the suggestion) Is that a deliberate Mandalorian nod?
@Aniki91PL3 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Indeed
@LordRedDragon3 жыл бұрын
"Best SOUND is what u LOVE"
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the idea!
@roopbhadury3 жыл бұрын
Hey Lachlan, Great review as usual. Here's my design suggestion: (Frequency) Curves are forever ;-) AND a Frequency Graph with say, the Harman Target on the back. Just a touch naughty, but perhaps ok?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Hi Roop. Glad you liked the review and thank you for the suggestion! I don't mind something with a little innuendo and that could appeal to both men and women I think.
@nebulotl3 жыл бұрын
Hoodie design idea: You could wear a hoodie of different bands but that might cause copyright problems(?) or you could wear different headphone style hoodies, like your profile picture/logo but on a hoodie!
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Thanks! I've got a logo hoodie already, but maybe different headphones on hoodies could be interesting.
@TheMaurob197910 ай бұрын
Hi Lachlan.. Just got again a pair of 400 se yesterday.. I m going to tell my experience. First time i purchase those cans i had a fiio k5 pro and the sound was piercing and harsh.. So i retourned it.. Now having a fiio k9 and a balanced cable.. Used for sundara(witch i sold becouse fatiguing) i gave the 400 se another try.. First of all are a bit harder to drive than sundara(high gain and at least 10 o clock on balanced output) and there no sss sound or harsh.. They sound great.. And veryyy enjoyable sound even with you tube tracks.. Bass mids and high are more or less well balanced. For summit this up.. For me are more fun to listen than sundara and i really prefer this over sundara.. But only if driven properly.. Are very amp picky
@PassionforSound10 ай бұрын
Glad you're enjoying them! It might be that the K5 was struggling for power. I can't remember the specs on it.
@TheMaurob197910 ай бұрын
@@PassionforSound inthink so.. Its too cheap for drive planars i guess
@cactuscooler40033 жыл бұрын
Design idea for shirts/sweatshirts/hats/anything really: Text that says, "Music is life and life is music" or if you prefer, just, "Music is life." And a related idea, "Life without music isn't life at all" or, "What is life without music?" I know that's a lot of ideas, but the gist of it all involves the use of the words "music" and "life" in whatever configuration you prefer.
@cactuscooler40033 жыл бұрын
And a slightly different variation, "Life is Lossless" or "Life isn't Lossless without Lachlan"
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Lol. That last one might come off a little egotistical, but I appreciate all the ideas. Thanks for the suggestions, CC
@cactuscooler40033 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound I think your fans would find it funny, plus people who don't know who you sre will ask the person in the shirt who Lochlan is and maybe you'll get a new subscription out of it! (Edit: How are you picking the winner of the giveaway? Are you picking the idea you like the most or picking like a top 5 and letting the subscribers or Patrons vote on their favorite?)
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I'm just picking the one I like most and feel like I can and want to get made into a design
@HermeticAscetic223 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Nietzsche would’ve agreed with that last line. 😁
@carl_oak3 жыл бұрын
Brilliant critical review! I really enjoy your assessments and how soothing your voice is. I've been learning a lot and made me wonder if you teach music because everything is clearly explained. A sound tutorial series could be very interesting. Regarding the hoodie, "Fine tune your Passion for Music" could be nice reference to your channel XD Cheers
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Hi Carlson, thanks for the suggestion and the feedback! I don't teach music, but my paid job is to design and deliver training for organisations. I'm also in the process of designing a course to help people with understanding and choosing the right audio gear for them so stay tuned... 🙂
@carl_oak3 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound had a feeling you taught in some way. That is great! I am very interested in improving my understanding of music and sound so I can enjoy and dig deeper into what the artists intended to. Cheers
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Awesome. I've planned out what I think will be some great content for people exactly like you (i.e. what you're saying you want to learn) but it's going to take a while to pull it all together and produce.
@MRFUTURETECHNOLOGYGAMING Жыл бұрын
The 400SE is Re imagined an improved version of the 400 S which was a 22 ohm headphone I believe So the 25 ohms version helps improve the sound quality Along with the stealth magnets
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
That's correct about the evolution. The impedance doesn't really make any difference, but the I think it's a sign of a slightly different diaphragm design. The stealth magnets are a consistent advantage it seems across all models
@dtz10004 ай бұрын
Except that the he400se is a downgrade from the he400s in three areas. I tried both headphones and they sound about the same but would take he400s every time because of the downgrades hifiman did to cut costs.
@PassionforSound4 ай бұрын
What are the downgrades you're hearing?
@eeshandev50812 жыл бұрын
Your reviews are great! Your review for Shanling Q1 made me go for it last year and honestly, I simply love it. Such a great sounding device with awesome features. Only downside is the slightly laggy and buggy UI. Coming to HE-400SE, I was wondering, if the Q1 can drive these headphones to a comfortable listening level? I listen at normal volumes. I am eyeing these headphones because I want to try open back planars and these are the cheapest open back planars readily available in my country. So, is it worth buying if I don't have a dedicated DAC-AMP setup? Thanks in advance!
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I can't remember the exact specs of the Q1, but I'm fairly certain it will be fine with the 400SE. You can always start with the 400SE and Q1 agree see if you feel the need to add an external device after that.
@eeshandev50812 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Thanks for the reply! Q1's output is 80mW@32 Ohms! It also has a high gain option. I think I will get the 400SE and enjoy it with Q1 until I save enough to get a good DAC-AMP with it.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Sounds like a great plan! 80mW can get the HE400SE to 110dB which is a dangerous volume so you should be fine.
@afraza59468 ай бұрын
Great video! Just bought these last week. Can you recommend what can be a good budget dac amp for these? I dont want to regret a dac amp purchase and worry about needing headroom. Which dac amp can help me just reach that required headroom space. Something like E10k, iFi Uno, Topping DX1 will help me get the adequate headroom or do i need to shell out more and get something like FiiO K11. Thanks!
@PassionforSound8 ай бұрын
Any desktop device with its own power supply (i.e. not powered by a USB connection) will have sufficient power for these. I haven't tried the ones you mentioned, but there are lots of great options. I've got a whole list of recommended products here too: DACs: bit.ly/RecDACs Headphone amps: bit.ly/HPAmps DAC / HP Amp combos: bit.ly/DACAmp
@AlexB-dl5ou3 жыл бұрын
How about take like 10 or so frequency graphs from different flagship and such in different colors overlayed on a black or grey hoodie. Its kind of stealth but people who know will know
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Interesting idea
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Interesting idea!
@kyron423 жыл бұрын
Hi Lachlan I'm glad to see that you are recognising the benefits of headphone EQ.
@chefsteve83813 жыл бұрын
I don't think you have converted him yet LOL .
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I do appreciate EQ, but I also don't use EQ 🙂
@kyron423 жыл бұрын
@@chefsteve8381 LOL I obviously need to work on him a bit more.
@kyron423 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound one benefit of EQ is volume doesn't need to be as loud to enjoy the music therefore preserving your hearing? Have you ever tested your high frequency limit?
@chefsteve83813 жыл бұрын
@@kyron42 i think a review / debate of EQ would be great, maybe you could guest star for the for EQ and lachlan against .lol
@himanshutiwari903 жыл бұрын
Love your comparisons with other headphones of same range, although I would really like to know the head to head winner between hd560s and he400se.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I don't think I can give you a head-to-head winner because they're very different headphones in terms of their intention. What I can say is that I'd reach for the HE400SE for musical enjoyment over the HD560S. For mixing my voice overs, I'd probably reach for the HD560S, but it's not as clear cut. Make of that what you will 😉
@akkabor3 жыл бұрын
Hoodie with headphone/earbuds on the hood (possible your logo). So it looks like you have it on your head when the hood is on.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Great idea, but not an option with my merchandise producer ☹️
@fletchermunson62253 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound I'm late with my suggestion. I didn't see yours first. hah.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
All good, SL!
@alouisschafer72122 жыл бұрын
Since a lot of people ask about amps: These are not hard to drive. I run them off a Fiio K3 which is limited to 320mw into 16 ohms and 100% Volume is unbearable. The earcups literally vibrate on my head to the bass so im actually worried about popping the drivers. 60-70% is pretty loud already. Ive got the Volume around 50-60% most of the time. You dont need a huge amp with several watts of output power for this headphone.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for adding that info - you're completely right
@alouisschafer72122 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound But I do want to invest in something beefier at some point. Use the K3 as a DAC and feed the line out into an Amp?
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
That could definitely work well. I've also got some reviews coming up of all-in-one devices like the Aune X1S GT and FiiO K9 Pro ESS. They could be good options too
@koundamanee2 жыл бұрын
Lot of nice aspects explained. 👍 I've found very similar observations on the one I have.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the confirmation! Always nice to hear other's views on the same products
@thedude12496 ай бұрын
⭐Thank you, excellent video. 🤩👍
@PassionforSound6 ай бұрын
I'm glad you liked it! 🙂
@ArjitMehra3 жыл бұрын
Hey! I have had a pair of these for some time now. Overall, I'm quite satisfied with them but I am in a bit of a pickle. I have these running off of an AV receiver. While they run fine, albeit require more volume than my speakers (Spektor 1s) do. I want to know if getting a dedicated headphone amp(thinking of IFI Hip Dac) improve anything or would it be redundant? Thanks!
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Hi Arjit, that's going to depend a lot on the receiver (and I'm not experienced with receivers so there's sadly no point telling me which one you have). Generally, a dedicated headphone amp will perform better, but there's no guarantee.
@ArjitMehra3 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Ah! Well, thanks anyway :)
@crestofhonor23493 жыл бұрын
So how would these sound coming out of a phone compared to the Sundara? Are they easier to drive and worth getting before getting a proper DAC/Amp
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
No, they're actually relatively difficult to drive still and even properly driven they don't match Sundara. I'd recommend spending money on an amp/DAC
@2134yanto2 жыл бұрын
Hi Lachlan. Great video yet again. I was wondering if you could tell me if the HE400SE would be good with classical music please? I’m looking for really good detail and instrument separation, wide soundstage and not a harshly bright treble. I can buy these now at £70GBP Thanks very much indeed
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Hi Ian, for an affordable headphone the HE400SE will do well because it's tuning isn't too thick or too bright. It does lean slightly brighter, but isn't harsh at all IMO
@georgeseremetis5576 Жыл бұрын
Love your channel. I just got into the hobby and I bought these from HiFiman B Stock for $79. I also bought the Schiit Magni+ and the Modi+ based on your review. I’m waiting for the items to arrive this week and look forward to listening to them. Should I consider the Sundaras as a step up?
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
So glad you're enjoying the channel!! I think the Sundaras are a worth upgrade because their tonality is a bit more natural (more balance between bass/mids/treble)
@georgeseremetis5576 Жыл бұрын
Now that I opened Pandora’s box, I’m looking at the HIFIMAN Edition XS instead. I’m assuming you’ll agree.
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
Actually, no. The XS lacks depth of soundstage and I didn't enjoy it so much as a result. It's not at all bad, but I'd choose the Sundara still.
@georgeseremetis5576 Жыл бұрын
Well, I got the the Schiit Modi +, the Loki+, Magni and the HiFiman SUNDARA and I am extremely happy in what I hearing. Thank you so much
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
That's great news! Thanks for letting me know. I'm so glad you're enjoying it.
@AbhiramBharadwaj13 жыл бұрын
Hi Lachlan, Thanks for the review. I'm an absolute noob to anything related to audio tech. However, planning to start my journey here. Im super interested in buying this headphone, however, i'll not be getting a DAC. I play a little guitar so i'll be getting the M-Audio Air 192|4 audio interface instead. Will that audio interface be able to drive this headphone? I've read about interfaces needing headphones with high impedance and this one is very low(because of planar?).
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Hi Abhiram, audio interfaces often don't have particularly strong headphone amps so it's possible that it might struggle with the HE400SE, but I haven't specifically tried it to say for certain. Personally, I'd probably go for something a little easier (e.g. HD560S) if you're not planning to add an amp or maybe invest in a well priced amp like a Topping L30 or Schiit Magni 3+.
@AbhiramBharadwaj13 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Thank you so much for the reply.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
My pleasure
@julianfrancofarinas4280 Жыл бұрын
What would be a good upgrade from these? 😊
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
If you want to maintain a similar tonality, I'd go for the Verum 1. Otherwise, the Sundara and Ananda Stealth are both excellent. Sivga SVO23 is another great choice in a different type of design.
@phillipnunya67933 жыл бұрын
Why not come out with several prints that would let people represent their personal preferences? For example, one print featuring a tube with text like "lighting in a bottle" for those who prefer tube amps, one showing a PCB set up with R2R saying something like "transcending measurements", one with op amps saying "precision perfection", ect. Maybe a design of a balanced 4.4 or XLR saying "live a balanced life." Could also make two designs representing open or closed preference, or two that represent bass/fun or neutral/detail preference. Maybe one that says "bass monster" showing an angry hulk banging a drum and wearing an LCD-X or something, and the other saying something like "deadly accurate" showing a ninja shooting a bow and arrow and wearing an Arya. Should be pretty simple to create a stylized image like that (except for the last two), and it gives you several designs instead of one.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I really like the tube, R2R and op-amp ideas. I'll give those some further thought... Thank you and stay tuned
@phillipnunya67933 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Always do ;)
@victormedrano23163 жыл бұрын
Hoodie must have your channel's logo headphones that's for sure, it could be a big one in all the torso or a small one just in the middle or to a side of the chest
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Got a design with the logo centre chest. Thank you for commenting with a suggestion though 🙂🙂
@maximilianbecker3213 жыл бұрын
A hoodie with: "...Except power amps and passive Speakers" and your logo above or below it.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Nice one, Max. Thank you
@yongguo38973 жыл бұрын
What do you think of SHP9600? Is it worth it to spend more for the HE400SE? Or, save the money and just get the SHP9600? Thanks in advance.
@Sir_Corgerus3 жыл бұрын
I own both. SHP9600 is more fun with a warm sound, while the HE400se has a clearer and colder sound. SHP sounds just a touch wider and the SHP seems better for gaming. HE400se doesn't struggle with complex music, while the SHP can start to struggle when lots of sounds are playing at once but that's not a significant problem. SHP is the comfort king (if you have a microfiber cloth nearby), while the HE400se is only 7.5/10 due to the stiff headband and heavy-ish weight. I can wear the SHP for hours longer. For music listening, I use the HE400se, but when I'm just wanting to chill with other music or play games, I switch to my SHP9600. You need an amp for the HE400se, I use it with 4.4 Pentaconn on my iFi Zen DAC. The SHP won't need an amp.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for answering, Matt, and in such great detail! I haven't tried the SHP so this was extra helpful.
@sayancold2 жыл бұрын
Hi , I've bought this in the beginning of the month and I'm using Shanling up4 as amp/dac. I'm good with these pairs. But there is something that is itching me . If I use balanced cable , would I get better sound ? more louder ?
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
From memory, the UP4 does sound better balanced and definitely has more power available balanced so I'd recommend getting a balanced cable. 🙂
@sayancold2 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound thank you very much
@stevenroutledge55843 жыл бұрын
Hey Lachlan, would love to hear your thoughts on the Harmonicdyne Zeus. Any chance of a review anytime soon?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I was in the process of arranging it with Linsoul and then they went quiet and I can't get a peep out of them since. I have no idea why...
@raphaeldiaz17692 жыл бұрын
Sir lachlan I'm kinda limited on budget I prefer to have less sidegrading My question is, what is your general opinion of planar vs dynamic which among the two sounds more natural ignoring implementations just going for general driver characteristics
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I seem to be drawn to planars much more than dynamics. There are a few notable exceptions, but I think planars are the safer bet
@raphaeldiaz17692 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound thank you sir lachlan since this video is about the he400se Do you think the he400se is a good budget endgame headphone under 200$ I say endgame mostly because I'm still in my early audiophile years that I'm like With 300 or 400$ why should I spend this amount for headphones when I can spend it on other quality of life changes So yah that's why 200$ is endgame for me compared to any of you guys hahaha Any thoughts on the he400se as my budget endgame of course I'll buy a separate amp/dac for it. Also any mods or earpads to consider along to improve it aside from the crappy cable (In case my unit comes with the crappy cable)
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I think the HE400SE is a great starting point and the cable is sonically fine, just a little annoying to use. In think you're making the right choice to start with a sensible budget because part of this journey is also about understanding your preferences. If you drop $1000 on your first headphones and they don't suit your tastes, your kind of stuck. This is a much better path IMO
@Mumbai-Toronto-NY2 жыл бұрын
I'm planning to buy these with the Qudelix 5K DAC/AMP. My question is whether the 5k would be able to drive these headphones? Would it provide sufficient power? Or should I look for another option?
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I don't know the 5K specifically, but most dongles can handle the 400SE so the 5k should be fine unless you listen very loud or boost the EQ a lot
@Mumbai-Toronto-NY2 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Okay. Noted. Thank you for the reply.
@anirudhiyer93513 жыл бұрын
I am an absolute noob in the audiophile territory. My Budget is $350. I am planning on going with HE400SE with FiiO K5 Pro. Is this good enough? Please suggest if you feel there's a better product for my budget.
@anirudhiyer93513 жыл бұрын
If I go with Sundara what budget DAC would be better for it? Like the FiiO E10K maybe? And budget headphone with a costlier dac is a wise choice or a costly headphone with a budget DAC?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I don't know a lot of budget DAC/amps like the K5 or E10K so I can't really advise on that. You should be safe enough with the FiiO gear though. Sorry I can't be more helpful!
@johnlindley36223 жыл бұрын
In reference to your competition I thick a teeshirt or hoody with one earcup of the front and the other earcup on the back and the headband over the shoulder would look great.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Cool idea, John. Sadly it's beyond the capabilities of my printing place.
@manuchaves95112 жыл бұрын
Hello excellent video I have a problem and I need help, I want to know which of these three audio interfaces can be used to give 100% volume to my hifiman he400se? the Audient iD4 mkII, the Audient EVO 4, the RODE AI-1? My budget is 200 dollars.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I don't know those interfaces - sorry. If you check the specifications of each device, it needs to produce at least 160mW into around 30 ohms.
@user-bl6hg1hy9m2 жыл бұрын
Good review. I am weiting for 400se. Is it level up with my Philips shp895? DaC - FX Audio D01.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I expect you'll notice some good improvements, but I haven't personally heard the 895 so I'm basing that on the reviews I've seen of the 895 only.
@user-bl6hg1hy9m2 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound yes I will. But my english is not good.
@kyron423 жыл бұрын
You don't need more power for quiet soundtracks so therefore you don't need more headroom. You just need plenty of amplifier gain available.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Gain and power are interrelated. If you are running at say 85% for normal recordings and then you get a quiet one, you could easily hit 100% without getting to a suitable volume level. Also, gain without the power to back it up isn't helpful.
@kyron423 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound gain and power are completely independent. You can have a circuit with lots of gain but little power alternatively you could have a circuit with lots of power and little gain. If the circuit cannot produce the power needed for a particular audio level it will distorted if you try to push it. If the circuit runs out of gain it won't distort. It just won't get loud enough.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I think that's oversimplifying things because they interact so closely. If you have a difficult pair of headphones, no matter how much gain you have, they won't get loud enough without distortion so the amount of gain becomes irrelevant. The same IS true if you have insufficient gain where now they won't get loud enough no matter how much power you have so I think they need to be considered together for the general consumer to understand. For instance, many might think something like the MT-602 that I'm currently reviewing is very powerful when they find it getting way too loud too fast with a low impedance/high sensitivity headphone, but it won't successfully drive something like a Susvara because it's the gain causing the high volume, not the power. I get what you're saying and don't mean to suggest you're wrong. I just think that people without a thorough understanding who read these comments need to understand both gain and power together.
@tkhalid13792 жыл бұрын
Fabulous review and thank you. I was almost set on buying these after looking at the other option I'm considering (pro 900x) but now I'm double minded again as I only have a portable DAC/amp i.e. the Helm Bolt. Looks like it may not be able to drive these fully?
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Of the two headphones you're considering, is choose the 900 Pro X which also happens to be easy to drive, but if you feel like the HE400SE would suit you better, the Bolt should still be ok - you'll just be up towards the max volume perhaps
@siderion673 жыл бұрын
Hi, I've got a question about ear comfort in these. I know they're open back, but is there an airflow to the ears from outside, or they're sealed by the diaphragm? (or maybe it's a dumb question and there shouldn't be an airflow ever) ;)
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Not a dumb question, but there should never be any airflow to the ear though because there needs to be a seal between the front and back of the driver. If not, you'd lose the sense of bass. Having said that, most open backs will feel cooler and more "open" because there will be better dissipation of heat rather than it building up from your head into the cup.
@davidwright23792 жыл бұрын
Hey Lachlan, these, or the sennheiser hd 599se, which would you recommend and spend the dollar on??? Dave
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I don't know the 599SE so hard to say, but the 400SE are great - just a little light on bass soaybe factor that in depending on your preferences
@davidwright23792 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound thanks Lachlan, would be great to see a review and your opinion of the hd599se open backs sometime soon 😀 I'd certainly be interested in your comments. Any other followers have any comments on the hifiman HE400SE and their suitability for mobile devices?? Cheers guys
@notpops16783 жыл бұрын
Put a hoodie with the intro spheel on it
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Lol. Small text? Could actually be kind of fun...
@BigJav1 Жыл бұрын
Would the FiiO JadeAudio Q11 be suitable for these headphones?
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
The Q11 has more than enough power to do the HE400SE justice. Should work well :)
@chefsteve83813 жыл бұрын
How about a hoodie with " I hate crappy audio cables" or some Aussie audio slang on it, nice review BTW. Hifiman seem to be doing a lot of 4 series versions maybe a case of to much rinse repeat. How do you think the 4xx compare ?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I slightly preferred the HE-4XX to the HE400i 2020, but I think the SE bests the 4XX. I'm not sure if we have any Aussie audio slang...
@chefsteve83813 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound How about fair dinkum ?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Lol. Definitely Aussie, but not so much audio-related 🙂
@MrB10N1CLE3 жыл бұрын
Hey, I'm wondering what compensation curve are you using for your measurements?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I'm using the HPN curve within Room EQ Wizard. It's essentially targetting a neutral response without any emphasis.
@MrB10N1CLE3 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound ty
@Sid1804.2 жыл бұрын
Will the Fiio E10K be able to properly drive these? Great review tho!
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Glad you liked the review. The E10K should do fine 🙂
@Sid1804.2 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Tried the E10K. Unfortunately they were stretched to the max. I'm now looking at either the IFI Hip Dac or the Xduoo 05 Basic. What would you recommend? I want something with enough power that has an inbuilt battery.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I haven't tried either of those yet so I can't really comment - sorry! I'm surprised the E10K is so stretched. Hopefully you're not listening too loud. Please be careful with your hearing 🙂
@Sid1804.2 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Appreciate your concern. I was surprised as well.
@koningklootzak7788 Жыл бұрын
Which is harder to drive, 400SE or 400i 2020?
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
According to the specs I collected, the 400SE is more difficult
@koningklootzak7788 Жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound that's what I have also found out after some googling. I actually got 400i 2020 today, I can drive it on my smartphone with dongle DAC. I'm sure it performs better with more powerful DAC, but I'm satisfied enough for now.
@danterikxx3 жыл бұрын
what about 400se vs Sennheiser HD 560s?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Probably best to check out my HD560S and HE400i 2020 video as I'm pretty sure I compared those two in one or both of those, but the HE400SE is smoother than the 400i 2020 which also makes it even more enjoyable for music compared to the HD560S which is very neutral and a touch sibilant. The 560S is great if your looking for an analytical headphone on a budget, but for musical enjoyment, I'd choose the 400SE
@ChanchalSaha362 жыл бұрын
Hi I am using Hifiman sundara with fiio k5 pro but the problem is when I am using my phone to give input from 3.5mm jack using RC input . I have to put the gain settings to high gain and need to put volume to 1o'clock or for some tracks 2o'clock point to hear properly the music and instruments. Is it my fiio k5 pro faulty or am I doing anything wrong? But when I use from laptop through USB I need to put that in 12o'clock or 1o'clock in mid gain to get same output. What do you think? As far I know fiio k5 pro has pretty good power output then why that much power output I need to give to sundara? Sundara is not that much hard to drive gear.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Just answered on your other comment 🙂
@paolozafra54992 жыл бұрын
I know it is difficult to compare headphones and IEMs, I already have the timeless, do you think this would be a good purchase or should I get something in the higher budget range like the Sundaras?
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
If you like the Timeless, the 400SE have a fairly different tonality with significantly less bass. I'd probably look for a different option like the Sundara, Meze 99, Beyer DT 900/700 (open/closed), Rode NTH-100 (closed) or Sivga Phoenix. The Phoenix might be the best of that list for your tastes if you enjoy the Timeless, but all those cans are great
@paolozafra54992 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Great! most of these are under my radar and the Phoenix are super affordable here in the Philippines ($135), This could be my entry in the world of headphones. I will watch your review and decide. So far you are giving me a sign *wink*. :D
@paolozafra54992 жыл бұрын
Oops, forgot to mention I have a large head and above average sized ears so the Phoenix may be small for me. Could have been an easy blind buy considering the rock bottom the price here. XD
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
So glad I could help! Edit: just read your post about sizing. I can't recall which headphones suit larger sizes. I don't recall the Phoenix being super tight, but you'll need to judge what you think will fit.
@paolozafra54992 жыл бұрын
I did more research on the Phoenix and a certain reviewer named Zeos (You may have heard of him) actually loved them and he has a significantly larger head shape and ears than yours, he showed in his video that the head band is actually made of bendy steel and you can bend them a bit to lower the clamping force and fit a larger head. I will go ahead and blind buy the Phoenix as the really low price here is too good to pass. I will let you know how I like them once tested. Thanks again! :)
@pongybossman2 жыл бұрын
Hi there, would these be ok with a burson fun with sparkkos opamp upgrade, im thinking of buying these. Thanks
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Absolutely. The Fun has plenty of power and nice quality too (I still own two of them)
@Dominari663 жыл бұрын
Lachlan, mate the cable on the Sundara is absolutely crap as well and quite disappointing considering the price.
@mariodrv3 жыл бұрын
Good cables become expensive very quickly - easily one third of the price of the headphone or more. The question is do you want cable money to detract from the quality and rnd of the headphone?
@chefgav13 жыл бұрын
Considering the price? What were you expecting? It’s only a $500 headphone
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
There are other cheap headphones with better cables. HiFiMan just seem determined to provide pretty crappy cables (at least the look and feel - they're sonically fine)
@mariodrv3 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound ...spectacularly crappy.
@ehh13532 жыл бұрын
Thanks so much man my 1watt amp is more than enough i really thought that i need 2-3 watt amp thanks so muchh
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Glad I could help 🙂
@franciscocastaneda6323 жыл бұрын
HIFIMAN he400se and its different versions vs AQ NightOwl? which is better to listen to rock?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I'd take the NightOwl for sure for rock music. Much better bass
@YoutubeDeleteUncensoredYou2 жыл бұрын
Is my lg g7 thinq can drive this? I have reecho and peacock summer a very hard to drive iem my vollume is 55-60 its loud the maximum vollume of my phone is 75 theres two toggles the dts-x and quad dac
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
If you use the Quad DAC setting, it should do fine with these, but the volume will be quite high.
@soundpitchblack2 жыл бұрын
I remember owning the original HE400SE they sounded clear, fast bass, mids a bit recessed but not much, highs clear but no extension and a little bit splashy !? Would love if a reviewer would compare these 2
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Do you mean the original HE400? I don't know if I ever heard those, but I've tried the HE4XX, HE400i 2020 and now these SE versions and the SE are my favourite
@soundpitchblack2 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound There was the original HE-400 but later on they added the HE-400S and HE-400i they had a similar headband like the HE-1000 and same silver cups.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Ah, gotcha. I wasn't aware of that one
@danielsandoval83453 жыл бұрын
Hoodie/T-Shirt Design Idea: As of late, I've been reading this well-known Japanese manga, called Jojo's Bizarre Adventure. One of the many things that make this series unique are the cover-artworks for each chapter, where the creator goes to excruciating lengths to make each cover looked as if it came right from an art book, with beautiful colors and level of details unseen in most other contemporary works, especially with latest installments to the series (Part 7 - Steel Ball Run - & Part 8 - Jojolion). With that in mind, I believe a design in the same vain as these artworks with an audiophile twist (headphones, vinyl records, items, etc.) would be a great idea for merchandise surrounding your channel, since your focus is detailed-oriented, like many of the author's works.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
A very unique idea - thank you! To confirm that I understand, are you saying that the design would be a highly detailed image (maybe drawn) of specific audio devices?
@danielsandoval83453 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound , in a way, yes and no! Specifically, I meant by "in the same vain...with an audiophile twist..." as in utilizing some of the elements that the author, Hirohiko Araki, takes inspiration from to create a design surrounding a specific audio device, not solely a highly-detailed image of one. Many of the designs of the pieces Araki makes take inspiration from classical techniques in paintings and sculptures, the color manipulation of Paul Gauguin's work, Western pop culture, and, lastly, fashion to create an engaging and evocative scenes and characters. For example, in the cover illustration for a spin-off manga collaboration with the fashion brand Gucci, appropriately titled "Rohan Kishibe Goes to Gucci," a side character is depicted against a simple backdrop with the Gucci brand's signature colorway acting as the background, while the character, himself, is dressed in stylish apparel with a Gucci duffle bag, staring directly at the audience and standing in a unique pose one would associate with fashion models. This image I describe along with several other works of Araki demands a level of attention and awe from its audience as an art piece, rather than a simple cover page, with the level of detail drawn and contrasted with a surreal color palette complementing it. With that in mind, I can imagine a drawn/painted design centering around an highly-detailed audio-related item, such as a vinyl record, against a large expanse of flat color while maintaining a very limited palette, contrasting warm and cold colors against one another to make the subjects of the piece pop more. Another design could have a single or multiple characters interacting with a device, utilizing the same aforementioned elements, as well, to break-up the overwhelming background and drawing attention to the item, like headphones or a DAC/AMP.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the detailed explanation! It sounds beyond my design abilities, but I'll take a look at some of the covers and will also see if I could commision an artist if I choose to go that way. Thanks again!
@danielsandoval83453 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound , yeah, I apologize for throwing all that jargon at you, but it’s hard to describe such design without going into the technical stuff. Please, give them a look; once you see some of them, it’ll become more clearer on what design I think would be great! If not, a drawn detailed image of an audio device would also be a cool idea for a design as well. Thank you, again, for reading and replying to my comments btw.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
All good, Daniel. Sometimes these things are hard to explain, but I appreciate the effort
@Andhika0587 ай бұрын
Is ibasso dc03 have enough power for he400se?
@PassionforSound7 ай бұрын
It is probably ok at moderate listening levels, but will struggle to get loud and/or handle any significant boosts applied via EQ
@lisafan6365 Жыл бұрын
Is this good for hip hop? I don't need booming bass non stop like most modern hip hop songs. I listen to old school hip hop in porta pros at the moment and they are almost perfect for me other than 1 complaint in some songs I miss a low bass note that I know should be there. It's either inaudible, or barely audible in the portapros. Would this give me what I am looking for to at least pick up on the lowest of notes but not necessarily have to rumble? for $109 current price I'm tempted to try them...
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
It's hard to go too wrong at that price, but what you'll be getting is a sound that's less bassy/full than the PortaPros. It will extend further down in the bass though so you'll hear the deeper notes, but the overall signature will be a bit leaner sounding
@lisafan6365 Жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Can EQ fix that? or Do you have any other recommendations? I prefer opened back but I know closed back would work best. I heard Philips Fidelio X2HR is bassy would that be closer to the fullness of porta pros?
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
EQ can definitely fix that if you like to use EQ. There aren't too many other headphones at the same kind of price that perform as well and are open back
@Another_Audiophile3 жыл бұрын
Simply “Sound Matters”
@pokrog3 жыл бұрын
you should measure the impedance and see what you come up with. i got 56ohm on mine and i'm 100% confident those advertised specs are the chinese non stealth variant of the 400se.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
That's interesting. I'm not so fussed about the actual numbers though - what I'm focussed on is the sound 🙂
@pokrog3 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound oh I know it doesn't matter it's just odd how much harder to power they are than a lot of headphones out there and I think it's because the impedance is around double what they advertised and I think the sensitivity is quite a bit lower as well.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
That's true. The quoted specs do suggest they're a bit tricky to drive so they're not entirely misleading, but hopefully they're also not way off.
@Sertao20132 жыл бұрын
Why would you buy the he400se that's wired and sound worse than the deva pro that bluetooth ? Go anywhere in your house and listen to music and get a better sound with the deva pro through bluetooth . Don't waste your money on the 400 get the deva pro .
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I don't agree that it sounds worse necessarily. If you are only looking for a wired headphone, the 400SE can outperform the Deva Pro due to the Deva Pro's wires sound. This will depend on the DAC and amp used with the HE400SE of course. No doubt, the Deva Pro is more versatile and sounds amazing when used with the R2R dongle, but the 400SE still has a place IMO
@alouisschafer72122 жыл бұрын
These have potential to be sub 200$ endgame for many listeners.
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
Absolutely
@zaironwellfabella332 Жыл бұрын
will the topping NX1s handle the he400se well? That's what my budget can do at the moment, thank you
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
I haven't tried the NX1s, but it looks to have plenty of power for the job - should be fine
@zaironwellfabella332 Жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound it has 150 mW @ 32 ohms ×2, will that be enough?
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
It should do fine. The HE400SE needs 80mW to reach dangerous listening levels so there's room to spare at normal, safe levels
@zaironwellfabella332 Жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound thank you very much for the advice, I really need to know this from a professional, your contents are a great help for those who are just starting the hobby more power sir!
@PassionforSound Жыл бұрын
My pleasure. Glad I could help
@yassharrathi13373 жыл бұрын
hey, i was wondering if the fiio e10k can drive this, i don't know how much i need since i didn't get what you said here 4:32, i bet it can't drive it but well maybe there is chance that it can
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
The E10K will be fine to drive these 🙂
@yassharrathi13373 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound nice, thank you kind sir
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
My pleasure
@eddyhsu19783 жыл бұрын
Fellow Melbournian here, Loved my HE400se I got it few months ago along with ifi zen dac. Was bit underwhelmed due to the zen dac was not powerful enough for it. However once I upgraded to balanced cable on zen dac these sound grrat but not "Wow" in both clarity and volume. Also works great with my xduoo mt602. However need advice as my he400se unfortunately died on the left hand side therefore I have since sent it back to local retailer for warranty. I am just wondering from your expertise is it a worthy upgrade to just bite the bullet and pay the extra AU$200 & jump to a Sundara on my current setup of mostly ifi zen dac and occasional mt602? Would I be able to notice a improvement without upgrading my amp? Or I need a better amp to fully take advantage of the sundara compared to the 400se? Thanks in advance.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Hello and commiserations (for now at least) 😉 You'll definitely notice significant improvements from the Sundara IMO, but it's also a different tuning with greater warmth, but overall a more enjoyable listen I think. As for power, you don't need crazy power levels for either headphone despite what some people might tell you. The Sundara and HE400SE can be comfortably driven by either of your existing products. It will scale a bit to allow you even better sound if you upgrade in the future, but I believe you'll hear immediate benefits.
@eddyhsu19783 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Awesome thanks for the advice, the Sundaras it is lol
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Fantastic. Enjoy!
@eddyhsu19782 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound THANKS SO MUCH! just received my Sundara in the mail. WOW A MASSIVE Upgrade in everyway. Even for my untrained ears it was a big notice upgrade from the HE400SE! So happy that I am now a Patreon Member!
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
That's wonderful that you're liking them so much! Thanks for joining the Patreon. I'll see you over there 🙂
@johnlindley36223 жыл бұрын
The upgraded cable has just tipped the balance as great value for money
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I agree
@fletchermunson62253 жыл бұрын
While I do like my Audeze LDC2C, I feel I am lacking nothing when I switch to the Sundaras. Maybe I'm not discriminating enough but I find them both engaging and a treat. Kudos to Hifiman. As to a hoodie idea , when the hood is up, How about a pair of headphones printed on the hood?
@fletchermunson62253 жыл бұрын
I missed someone doing that suggestion. How about a pair of IEMS hanging down from the shoulders to the chest area.
@limzhengxin17593 жыл бұрын
Is tempotec sonata hd pro enough to drive the he400se?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I don't have a Sonata HD Pro here anymore to confirm, but it should just have enough power for normal listening levels I think
@dasninjastix3 жыл бұрын
I went with the Drop HE-X4 over these, which are cheaper, different form factor, and come with a MUCH better stock cable. Price wasn't a factor when choosing between the two, I worried that the "stealth" magnets would be too lean, dry, or bright. That doesn't seem to be the case from your review but as you mention.. it's going to come down to comparative evaluations. The X4s sound rolled off in both directions, which is weird for a planar, but are creamy smooth and warm while having better resolution than they should at $130 US. They don't sound like the Deva/5xx or the Sundara imo and I would guess from your review that the SE wouldn't either. Great review as always! And Hart Audio cables are awesome, love the connector options and that they're non-microphonic. Good customer service as well. ✌️
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I'm yet to try the HE-X4, but your description sounds quite interesting. I'm curious to see how they compare to the original HE-4XX (which I no longer have), the HE400i 2020 (which I'm planning to sell) and the HE400SE (that I intend to keep)
@garyluciani3702 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound The x4 sounds the same as the 400se but is a little cheaper.
@MrBlitzpunk2 жыл бұрын
From what i gathered, the HE-X4 has pretty much identical driver to the chinese version of HE400se (400se v1 some people have called it) since the chinese version of the 400se don't use stealth magnet, is cheaper, but came with the better cable. So pretty much the only meaningful difference between the 2 is the headband, which i'd personally prefer the X4. But yeah, im currently using the 400se v1 and loving it (except the headband)
@hareshrk62593 жыл бұрын
Hello, i wanted an open back with good bass and i concluded with Philips x2hr but sadly they are double the price in my country. after some research i came to the realization that the new IEMs like the kz zs10pro are really good too. so now I'm torn between an iem called kz zas(improved zs10pros) and these he500se, i know both are totally different headphones but how do they compare sound wise ? I'm assuming the sound stage and the imaging of he500se will be much better but how is the rest ? i usually listen to edm, house, pop... but occasionally i also listen to violin/cello sonatas. please help me with this thank you
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Hi Haresh, I haven't heard the kz headphones so I can't comment - sorry! I have briefly owned the X2HR in the past and would definitely choose the HE400SE over the X2HR which I was quite disappointed in.
@hareshrk62593 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound thank you, have you heard any IEMs which you can compare the HE400SE ?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I've heard many. IEMs will always be a bit different to a full sized headphone, but the general sound quality and tuning of the 400se isn't so hard to match with something like a Moondrop Aria or the new TForce Yuan Li (review coming soon)
@hareshrk62593 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound I'm sorry but are you saying the IEMs like Aria sound pretty similar to the he400 in terms of sound quality? then I would go with the IEMs since they are much more practical and they also have a added benifit of the base since I listen to edm,pop a lot. im sorry for the questions.. I just don't have the money to try out different headphones and have to settle for a good one for quite some time
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Both forms offer different benefits. IEMs can absolutely match the sound of full sized cans in many ways and often can provide better sound for less money (to a point). On the other hand, they'll never match the sense of space, openness and movement of air that a full size open back can create. Some people are happy with IEMs as their only source while others want the full sized headphone experience so it's too personal a thing to say which will be right for you without you trying both. Sorry I can't provide more guidance.
@kyron423 жыл бұрын
Would be interesting to know how they compare to the various drop models. I have the HE4XX which sounds extremely good with my EQ. Much better than drop DT 880s. Without EQ the 880s sound better. Drop keeps producing new models and I've lost track.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I'd rate these higher than the HE-4XX based on the fact that the HE400i 2020 and HE-4 XX were basically comparable when I reviewed those and the 400SE is better than the 400i. I haven't tried the new HE-X4
@kyron423 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound thanks!
@nailahasanah68053 жыл бұрын
does anybody have recommendations for amp/dac on this one? (it would be nice if its through USB-C and its not too high end or expensive for this particular headphone, just enough so it can push its capabilities) ^^?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Maybe check out my review of the EarMen TR-Amp. That fits the bill pretty well I think.
@mikegoddard73543 жыл бұрын
Those cables man... really HiFiman FOR F sake. Good God. From the intro. I wonder if the HE6se is stealth magnet as well, it's foolish sensitive like the original HE6 and is amazing. It's the exact type of sound I like to hear Hart cables are amazing. Love them. So convenient, I could careless what quality the cables are as it is so nice and well thought out
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I think the HE-6SE is actually a special edition without stealth magnets, but don't quote me on that. And yes, the Hart cables are great. Not the best in sonic character, but for budget to mid-fi cans they're great.
@mikegoddard73543 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound I think the situation with headphone cables. Not to get into the entire cable discussion, is that the wires internally on the headphones do create a factor on the entire picture. I'm not one of those crazy measurement guys and I will not comment on the fact a different type of metal will create different signatures. Audioscience review had a video on this most recent with I believe 4 different cables. cheap, 200-300, 500, and 1000. The more expensive cables were from the same manufacturer. All measured exactly the same. So it's tough.. I dont wish to debate about it. But I mean some people are all about measurements and damn. You are basically just paying for the metal, so if that's the case use anything that has the metal signature you prefer.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Yeah, it's a tough one. I was chatting about this with another viewer and we ended up discussing the fact that there are many phenomena that we can't fully measure or quantify, but we know they exist. For example, the existence of dark matter, why the twin slit experiment is influenced by observation, quantum entanglement, and how the hive mind of ants works so long as the queen is alive and no matter where she is placed on the planet. So much we still can't explain so I agree with your thoughts - buy whatever you like and enjoy it regardless of whether it's measurable. If placebo and biases improve someone's enjoyment, where's the harm?
@mikegoddard73543 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Indeed, however I say this part which should make absolute sense to anyone. A 5000 dollar cable doesn't make your system sound better, there's a limit to what cables can do. If cables were key, I think people would invest more into them rather than there system. I also feel the benefits are so nominal, listening wise that the amount you pay and what you get creates a vast diminishing return. We also can agree that different metals do have different properties and therefore sound can vary to that as well as the way it is cast so and so forth. But I think in this day and age unless youre really messing up there should be nothing that creates an audible change that would be greater than 20% and that's probably at the upper echelon price tag which most people cant even get to
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
In the most part, I completely agree. I have found cases where a particular headphone or IEM is in dire need of the right cable, but it's the minority for sure. It also tends to be headphones or earphones that are flagship level and able to reveal every last detail of the source chain. For "normal" gear, the cables are rarely so important and are a "last 5%" item when you've got everything else just right (DAC, amp, headphones, etc.)
@prabinpaudel55722 жыл бұрын
I have ifi hip dac that gives 400mw at 16 ohm balanced. I hope it drives 400se close to its potential. ☺
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
You should be absolutely fine. The HE400SE can run from dongles to ok levels so any self-powered device (Hip DAC has a battery yes?) will have plenty of power.
@prabinpaudel55722 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound yes it does. I am excited for the combo. It's my 1st 'real' headphone. I currently own tinhifi p1 and koss kph30i. Hope its a level up. I'd have loved to get sundara but... budget crunch 😂😂
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I think you'll be quite impressed!
@nicolaslepper83533 жыл бұрын
Hoodie with the printed soundwave of the word "passion"
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Oohhh... That's kind of cool!
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Guess what, Nicolas? Yours was my favourite idea of those suggested!! You've won yourself a pair of Samsung Galaxy Buds Live and a hoodie, t-shirt or other piece of merchandise (your choice). You can check out the design here: passion-for-sound.myspreadshop.com.au/passion+wave?idea=610cd802ea46484b67a7071a Please email me at passionforsound@lachlanfennen.com so I can get your details to send you your earphones and merch!
@nicolaslepper83533 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound oh wow thats amazing 😄😄 thats the first time I won something and the hoodie looks amazing 🤩 I'll contact you via Email 😊
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I look forward to receiving your email. It's late on Friday here now so I'll likely get back to you tomorrow or the day after.
@nicolaslepper83533 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound no worries 😊
@Dominari663 жыл бұрын
Music is life !
@Onibaka3 жыл бұрын
did they finally fix their terrible quality control ?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I've had many pairs over the last 1-2 years with no issues so I think they might have
@kyron423 жыл бұрын
You think that the silver plated cable is brighter. I'm willing to bet a frequency response comparison would show less than 0.1 dB difference.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I'm saying it feels horrible. It kinks, it bends and it's thin and rigid to touch. No measurements required for most of that - just look at me holding it in the video. Hopefully I said in the video (I think I did) that it sounds fine. The wire quality isn't my issue, the overall cable quality is.
@kyron423 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound yes it looks like very difficult to manage. I was referring to the part where you said silver plated copper sounds brighter.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Oh, there's more to it than FR. I don't fully understand the physics, but the silver plated cables consistently sound different and always brighter than a copper cable.
@kyron423 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound I'm sure you believe that. From an engineering perspective there is no obvious mechanism for that to happen. I will keep my eye out for a blind test that indicates one way or another.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
This one's not really in question to me. There's lots we can't measure still, but it does exist as a phenomena. For example, scientists know dark matter exists even though they're struggling to measure it. The difference is of course that sonic differences between wire types don't warrant the same attention because they're less significant. The lack of measurements doesn't make it any less real. I'm not suggesting that placebo, psychoacoustics, biases, etc. aren't real, but when I find myself picking the type of conductor in a cable based on listening to it when it's insulated in black opaque plastic (i.e. no visible cues), there's clearly something going on. I've read lots of theories, but nothing that's been proved yet. The same is true for dark matter, how the hive mind of ants and similar insects work and even some studies into our own DNA where stuff happens that we can't measure or explain, but it still happens.
@apx19113 жыл бұрын
how bout an illustration of a tube in the shape of a glass syrup bottle with "extra goodness" as caption. lol
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I like it!
@antpage23 жыл бұрын
I have both the HE4SE and the 400i 2020. I found the HE4SE a much better listen. Also the HE4SE had better soundstage than the 400i 2020. It is a great bargain at its price point. Though for 50$ more you could get a Beyerdynamic TYGR300r.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I agree about the two 400 models. I've got the Tygr here now. Looking forward to a detailed listen soon
@Pablito56143 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound I'm incredibly interested and eagerly awaiting you're review of the tygr 300r. You're one of the best on the tube, thanks for all your hard work.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
Thanks Paul. I've had a brief listen and they're definitely an interesting and unique headphone. Not too long to wait, but I do have a few others in the queue ahead of them.
@Pablito56143 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound Sounds good, I'm wondering how they sound vs the 400se since I just got them today. I noticed the 4xx cable came with it, however the 4xx cable doesn't sound as clear as the annoying crappy cable they came with. The default cable still sounds a bit treble peaky though, have u found a cable that you think sounds better than the stock one? Am I wrong about the 4xx cable, it just doesn't sound as good to me on the 400se.
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I've actually got a review of a couple of well-priced cables coming soon. One is the Hart Audio cable and the other is the Apos Flow cable. I think the sound of the Flow is slightly better, but the Hart Audio cable is wonderful due to their modular design. I also haven't done critical listening yet so don't hold me to those thoughts 🙂 The review is probably still about 3-4 away in my queue so if you are in a rush, lettl me know and I'll see if I can make a more solid recommendation. I'd believe that the 4XX cable might not sound as good, but I sold my 4XXs so I can't compare.
@LandsPlanes2 жыл бұрын
Sundara cost 350€. Is better than 400se. 200€ of price difference
@PassionforSound2 жыл бұрын
I think so. I'd still choose the Sundara
@oneeyeop-en67203 жыл бұрын
Hood idea Line: Why compress yourself, if you could be lossless instead?
@PassionforSound3 жыл бұрын
I like where that's going. Perhaps just something like "wouldn't it be nice to be lossless?"
@oneeyeop-en67203 жыл бұрын
@@PassionforSound hm... I like this one too, but prefer it if both parts are there. How is: "Why are you so lossy? wouldn't it be nice to be lossless? Maybe one question on the front, one on the back?