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ALTERNATIVES

HiFiMAN Sundara Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£170
Avg. price in US: ~$180
Form factor: over-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

HiFiMAN Sundara review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.7

Poor

3.6

Poor

9.2

Exceptional

2.1
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
0.5
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
1.4
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
2.7
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
2.6
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
1.4
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The HiFiMAN Sundara is a highly-regarded open-back planar magnetic headphone featuring an ultra-thin diaphragm that is 80% thinner than previous models, delivering a wide frequency response of 6Hz to 75kHz with 37 ohms impedance and 94dB sensitivity. Characterized by its neutral-bright sound signature, it offers exceptional detail retrieval, a spacious soundstage, and fast transient response, making it a benchmark for value in the mid-fidelity audiophile market. Its main pros include natural tonality, impressive instrument separation, and a durable aluminum build with a comfortable weight-distributing headband. However, some users note potential cons such as a lean sub-bass without EQ, a somewhat stiff stock cable, and occasional QC concerns or a lack of cup swivel that may affect the fit for certain head shapes.

Technical Specifications of HiFiMAN Sundara

Overall score

4.7

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

4.1

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Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

planar

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

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Calls & Controls

2.8

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Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

N/A

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Connectivity

2.9

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Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

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Features

2.7

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Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

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Battery

1.0

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Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

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Design

5.1

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Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

HiFiMAN

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

open-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

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HiFiMAN Sundara vs the average headphone

Why is HiFiMAN Sundara better than the average headphone?

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Hi-Res Audio certification
HiFiMAN Sundara has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
What it is: Certified for high-resolution audio playback
When it matters: When official support for high-resolution playback matters to you.
Importance: LOW
HiFiMAN Sundara has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
40 mm larger driver size
HiFiMAN Sundara uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (80 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
HiFiMAN Sundara uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (80 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.80 mm vs 40 mm
12 Hz lower bass extension
HiFiMAN Sundara has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (6 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
HiFiMAN Sundara has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (6 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.6 Hz vs 18 Hz
55,000 Hz higher treble extension
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (75,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=24000 Hz
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (75,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.75000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
16 mm more spacious earcup width
HiFiMAN Sundara offers more spacious earcup width than the average headphone (59 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
What it is: Internal width of the earcup cavity
When it matters: When earcup fit affects comfort and pressure around your ears.
Importance: MEDIUM
HiFiMAN Sundara offers more spacious earcup width than the average headphone (59 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.59 mm vs 43 mm
20x higher input power handling
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher max input power than the average headphone (2,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
What it is: Maximum input power the drivers can safely handle
When it matters: When you pair the headphones with stronger sources or dedicated gear.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=300 mW
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher max input power than the average headphone (2,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.2000 mW vs 100 mW
14.5% higher user score
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.16 vs 8.000).
What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.16 vs 8.000).9.16 vs 8
14 dB higher max SPL
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (124 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
What it is: Maximum safe sound pressure level
When it matters: When high-volume headroom is part of your use case.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=116 dB
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (124 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.124 dB vs 110 dB
16 mm more spacious earcup width
HiFiMAN Sundara offers more spacious earcup width than the average headphone (59 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
Hi-Res Audio certification
HiFiMAN Sundara has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
40 mm larger driver size
HiFiMAN Sundara uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (80 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
12 Hz lower bass extension
HiFiMAN Sundara has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (6 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
55,000 Hz higher treble extension
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (75,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
20x higher input power handling
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher max input power than the average headphone (2,000 mW vs 100 mW). The average headphones handle max input power of 100 mW.
14 dB higher max SPL
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher max SPL than the average headphone (124 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.

Why is HiFiMAN Sundara worse than the average headphone?

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70.6% higher weight
HiFiMAN Sundara is heavier than the average headphone (372 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
2.2 higher clamp force
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (6.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
No travel bag
HiFiMAN Sundara does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
2 mm tighter earcup height
HiFiMAN Sundara has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (58 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
No passive noise reduction
HiFiMAN Sundara does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
8 dB/mW lower sensitivity
HiFiMAN Sundara has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
9 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
HiFiMAN Sundara has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (94 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
1 fewer microphones
HiFiMAN Sundara has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
HiFiMAN Sundara does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
No passive noise reduction
HiFiMAN Sundara does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones reduce outside noise through physical sealing, fit, and materials rather than active electronics.
When it matters: When you want better isolation from fit and seal alone, even with ANC turned off or not available.
Importance: MEDIUM
HiFiMAN Sundara does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
70.6% higher weight
HiFiMAN Sundara is heavier than the average headphone (372 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <150 g
HiFiMAN Sundara is heavier than the average headphone (372 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.372 g vs 218 g
No voice assistant support
HiFiMAN Sundara does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.
Importance: LOW
HiFiMAN Sundara does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
8 dB/mW lower sensitivity
HiFiMAN Sundara has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
HiFiMAN Sundara has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.94 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
2.2 higher clamp force
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (6.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.
Importance: MEDIUM
HiFiMAN Sundara has a higher clamp force than the average headphone (6.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.6.5 vs 4.3
1 fewer microphones
HiFiMAN Sundara has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2
HiFiMAN Sundara has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
No travel bag
HiFiMAN Sundara does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
What it is: Comes with a protective carrying case or pouch
When it matters: When protection in transit matters right out of the box.
Importance: LOW
HiFiMAN Sundara does not include a travel bag, the average headphone does. 65.2% of headphones include a travel bag.
8.9% worse value for money
HiFiMAN Sundara has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.18 vs 6.736).
What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
HiFiMAN Sundara has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.18 vs 6.736).6.18 vs 6.74

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of HiFiMAN Sundara and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about HiFiMAN Sundara?

Exceptional detail retrieval and clarity that rivals much more expensive headphones
Neutral and well-balanced sound signature ideal for critical listening
Fast transient response thanks to the ultra-thin planar magnetic diaphragm
Comfortable suspension headband design that distributes weight effectively for long sessions
Premium-feeling build with a high percentage of metal components compared to entry-level models
Excellent value for money, often cited as the 'gold standard' for mid-tier audiophile headphones

What customers dislike about HiFiMAN Sundara?

Noticeable sub-bass roll-off, which may lack the 'slam' desired by bass-heavy genre listeners
History of inconsistent quality control (QC) and potential longevity concerns with the drivers
Stock cable is frequently criticized for being stiff, rubbery, and prone to tangling
The ear cups do not swivel horizontally, which can cause fit issues for certain head shapes
Requires a dedicated amplifier to reach its full potential despite decent sensitivity ratings
Open-back design leaks significant sound, making them unsuitable for office or public use

Expert reviews

head-fi.org

07/04/2018

HIFIMAN SUNDARA | Headphone Reviews and Discussion

The HIFIMAN Sundara is characterized on Head-Fi as a high-value, open-back planar magnetic headphone featuring a neutral, balanced sound signature with exceptionally fast transients and detailed mids. It offers tight, well-controlled bass and comfortable, durable construction suitable for long listening sessions, providing a strong technical performance for its price point. However,...Read more

soundphilereview.com

30/01/2020

HiFiMAN Sundara review: heir apparent

The HiFiMAN Sundara is an open-back planar magnetic headphone retailing for $349 that features a lightweight, mostly metal build consisting of aluminium yokes and gimbals combined with a comfortable suspended headband design. It delivers a moderately bright, highly detailed sound signature highlighted by a clear, sparkling midrange and deep, textured bass that reaches down to ~40 Hz...Read more

boizoff.com

03/08/2022

HiFiMAN Sundara. The inch-perfect ones

The HiFiMAN Sundara (the second revision featuring beveled earpads and improved reliability) delivers an exceptionally balanced, fast, and highly detailed sound that punches far above its $280 sale price, mimicking the performance of headphones closer to $1,000. Its open-back isodynamic design with an 80mm planar membrane provides an incredibly linear bass response that handles...Read more

mobileaudiophile.com

25/08/2022

Hifiman Sundara Review - Mobileaudiophile

The Hifiman Sundara is a highly popular planar magnetic open-back headphone, praised for offering one of the best and most universal tonalities on the market at its $299 price point. Built mostly from metal and utilizing a comfortable suspension strap headband, it delivers a decently wide soundstage with clear, detailed, and fast technical performance that handles complex genres...Read more

soundstagesolo.com

01/03/2024

HiFiMan Sundara Open-Back Headphones - SoundStage! Solo

In this review from SoundStage! Solo, Geoffrey Morrison evaluates the HiFiMan Sundara Open-Back Headphones, focusing on how a $299 audiophile design stacks up against mainstream competitors. The pros highlighted include their exceptionally light, airy, and well-balanced soundstage, featuring immediate pluck and tight, well-controlled bass. Despite the reviewer being a...Read more

futureaudiophile.com

25/08/2025

HIFIMAN Sundara Open-Back Headphones Reviewed

The HIFIMAN Sundara is a highly regarded entry-level planar magnetic headphone praised for delivering exceptional speed, detail, and a wide soundstage that rivals far more expensive audiophile gear. Equipped with an ultra-thin NEO "supernano" Diaphragm, these headphones offer a fast transient response and lower distortion compared to standard dynamic drivers. During testing across...Read more

homestudiobasics.com

15/01/2026

HIFIMAN Sundara Review: Is There A Better Value In 2026? If you are looking for specific technical data like frequency response graphs or amplificatio...

The HIFIMAN Sundara is an open-back planar magnetic headphone praised for its fantastic comfort, secure fit, and robust, upgraded build quality compared to its flimsy predecessors. It delivers a mostly balanced, warm-leaning sound signature with an above-average soundstage and excellent, textured bass response that preserves clarity without muddying the mid-range. Despite having low...Read more

mobileaudiophile.com

03/09/2024

HIFIMAN Sundara Review: The Best Open-Back Headphones

The HIFIMAN Sundara is a highly regarded open-back headphone featuring Planar Neo Supernano Diaphragm drivers, a frequency response of 6Hz-75kHz, an impedance of 32Ω, and a weight of 342g. Priced around $300, it offers an exceptional quality-to-price ratio, striking an excellent balance between technical performance and a warm, detailed musicality. Sound-wise, it defies typical...Read more

uk.pcmag.com

16/08/2023

HiFiMan Sundara - Review 2023

The HiFiMan Sundara is an open-back, circumaural headphone that delivers exceptional clarity and a flat audio signature using advanced planar magnetic drivers. Priced affordably for its category at $299, it excels at reproducing mid-range and high-frequency details with strong realism. Notable pros include its crisp sound reproduction, durable detachable cable, and comfortable...Read more

headphoneer.com

01/05/2023

HIFIMAN SUNDARA REVIEW 2023 – MORE POWER!

The HIFIMAN Sundara planar magnetic headphones deliver class-leading, fast, and snappy sound quality with high detail retrieval at a relatively affordable price point. Built mostly with metal, they feature a lightweight design with comfortable circular ear cups and a suspension headband. The reviewer notes that while internet rumors claim distinct 2018 and 2020 versions exist,...Read more

audiosciencereview.com

16/04/2021

Hifiman Sundara Review (headphone)

The Hifiman Sundara is a planar magnetic open-back headphone priced at $349 that offers excellent performance, earning a strong recommendation when paired with equalization. Its primary strengths include an elegant design, highly consistent left-and-right driver matching, and a frequency response that closely adheres to the preferred target curve from the upper bass to the lower...Read more

rtings.com

14/03/2026

HiFiMan Sundara 2020 Headphones Review

The HiFiMan Sundara 2020Go is a planar magnetic, open-back headphone designed for critical, neutral listening, featuring a well-balanced sound signature with exceptional frequency response consistency and low harmonic distortion. They are highly comfortable for long listening sessions due to an updated suspension headband and plush padding, while offering a wide, natural passive...Read more

english.achoreviews.com

29/07/2019

Hifiman Sundara - Review

The Hifiman Sundara is an over-ear planar magnetic headphone that offers impressive comfort and high-resolution sound, making it excellent for relaxed, critical music listening. The reviewer praises its exceptional detail retrieval, fast transient response during busy musical passages, and accurate imaging. For comfort, the perforated imitation leather pads and well-distributed...Read more

rtings.com

12/04/2018

HiFiMan Sundara 2018 Headphones Review

The HiFiMan Sundara 2018 is rated by RTINGS as an excellent choice for neutral audio reproduction, offering a highly accurate, well-balanced mid-range and a wide, immersive soundstage. Featuring planar magnetic drivers, these open-back headphones deliver crisp, detailed audio with a comfortable, durable metal frame design suitable for long listening sessions. Conversely, the...Read more

stereophile.com

04/03/2018

HiFiMAN Sundara Around-Ear Open Planar Magnetic Headphones

Tyll Hertsens' Stereophile review praises the $499 HiFiMAN SundaraGo for its well-built, minimalist design and superior sound quality, which offers a neutral-to-cool, balanced, and even musical presentation that outperforms competitors. Key advantages include its comfortable fit, elegant industrial design, and a coherent sonic character that earned it a spot on his "Wall of Fame"....Read more

head-fi.org

07/04/2018

HIFIMAN SUNDARA - Reviews If you’d like, I can also look for: Measurement charts specifically comparing the "silent revision" versionsAmplifier pairin...

Head-Fi reviews identify the HIFIMAN Sundara as a benchmark for budget-conscious audiophiles, praising its exceptional resolution, fast transient response, and clear, forward mids. Users frequently highlight the robust metal build, comfortable suspension headband, and articulate, energetic treble as key pros. Conversely, the reviews note potential downsides, including a treble...Read more

audio-head.com

05/04/2018

HiFiMAN Sundara Headphones Review - AudioHead

The AudioHead review highlights the HiFiMAN Sundara open-back planar magnetic headphones as a highly competent $500 offering that raises the performance-to-price bar for the company. On the positive side, the headphones feature a comfortable, well-thought-out design utilizing a suspension system to manage clamping pressure, and strong metal yokes instead of plastic. Sonically, the...Read more

headphone.guru

28/05/2018

HIFIMAN Sundara Review - Headphone Guru

The HIFIMAN Sundara is a highly praised open-back, planar-magnetic headphone that offers an exceptional balance between critical listening and daily versatility at a $499 MSRP. Boasting an aesthetic defined by clean minimalism, it features a robust build with newly redesigned, thick metal unibody yokes and a flexible, detachable 1.5m crystalline copper cable system. Sonically, the...Read more

nobordersaudiophile.wordpress.com

19/03/2020

HIFIMAN SUNDARA REVIEW: Versatile and maturely tuned Precision King

The HIFIMAN Sundara is an open-back planar magnetic headphone praised for its lightning-fast transient response, exceptional instrument imaging, and mature, neutral-to-musical tonal balance. Equipped with a "Neo super-nano diaphragm" that is 80% thinner than previous models, it delivers a highly transparent and detailed soundstage with excellent circular spatiality. Its physical...Read more

musicalhead.de

25/01/2018

HIFIMAN SUNDARA Review - Musicalhead

In his review on Musicalhead, the author "Fidelio" highly praises the HIFIMAN Sundara open-back planar magnetic headphones, hailing them as a new €499 benchmark that redefines price-to-performance entry limits for the audiophile world. He highlights the headphones' exceptional, class-defying acoustic traits, particularly their class-leading resolution, remarkable three-dimensional...Read more

miniklangwunder.de

01/05/2020

Hifiman Sundara Review – Open-Back Over-Ear as an Audiophile Entry Point

The Hifiman Sundara is a pair of open-back planar magnetic headphones praised as an excellent, budget-friendly entry into the audiophile world, especially after its price dropped to €349. Visually, it features a sleek, dark aesthetic highlighted by a premium large-mesh grille, contributing to a lightweight feel at 372 grams. In terms of performance, the Sundara offers a bright,...Read more

hifitest.de

25/04/2018

HiFiMan Sundara - Hi-Fi Headphone Review - hifitest.de

The HiFiMan Sundara is an open-back, magnetostatic over-ear headphone designed as the successor to the HE-400, incorporating premium technology from the brand's top-tier models. Visually, it impresses with an elegant, deep black design with matte silver accents, packaged in a luxurious, fabric-lined presentation box. Key strengths include its significantly upgraded, 80% thinner...Read more

bonedo.de

21/03/2018

HIFIMAN Sundara Review

The HIFIMAN Sundara is an open-back magnetostatic headphone that stands out in its category by delivering high-end, audiophile-grade performance at a relatively accessible price point of €499. In terms of design and technical specifications, it breaks the mold of traditionally heavy planar magnetic headphones by weighing a manageable 372 grams. It features an impressive frequency...Read more

qobuz.com

24/08/2018

Hifiman Sundara: Planar Headphone Review - Qobuz Magazine

The Qobuz Magazine review analyzes the Hifiman Sundara open-back planar magnetic headphones, focusing heavily on its value proposition and technological integration. The primary highlight of the review is the inclusion of a newly designed planar diaphragm that is 80% thinner than the previous HE400 series. This engineering choice serves as a major pro, delivering exceptionally fast...Read more

hifivaudaine.com

21/06/2022

Our Selection of HIFIMAN Headphones - Hifi Vaudaine

This review from Hifi Vaudaine evaluates the HIFIMAN planar magnetic headphone lineup, ranging from the entry-level Sundara (€349) to the flagship Susvara (€5,999), praising the collection for its remarkable balance, clarity, and "hi-fi monitoring" signature style. The entry-level Sundara provides a robust build and excellent clarity, featuring clean treble and well-contained bass...Read more

homecinema-fr.com

09/04/2018

HCFR Review: Hifiman Sundara Headphones

The HCFR review of the HiFiman Sundara introduces the open-back headphone as an affordable orthodynamic (planar magnetic) model designed to replace the older HE400. Weighing in at 372 grams with a 37Ω impedance and a sensitivity of 94dB, it is highlighted by the community testers as "the little one that isn't afraid of the big guys" because it captures high-tier brand performance at...Read more

revista-gadget.es

N/A

Hifiman Sundara: headphones for a truly immersive audio experience

The Hifiman Sundara review by Revista Gadget highlights these open-back planar-magnetic headphones as a premium, highly competitive investment for audiophiles, priced at 349 euros as of February 2024. Weighing 372 grams, the headphones feature an ultra-thin diaphragm that is 80% thinner than previous models, enabling an expansive soundstage and a wide frequency response of 6 Hz to...Read more

espanol.achoreviews.com

29/07/2019

Review - Hifiman Sundara - Acho Reviews

The Hifiman Sundara is a pair of circumaural planar magnetic headphones that offers an exceptionally detailed and relaxing listening experience, making them highly suitable for acoustic and classical music. According to the reviewer, who has 25 years of professional audio experience, the headphones deliver outstanding clarity and detail retrieval across all frequencies, resolving...Read more

misauriculares.com

16/12/2019

Hifiman Sundara Review - misauriculares.com

The Hifiman Sundara is an open-back, planar-magnetic headphone that offers excellent comfort and high-quality build materials for its price. It features metal cups and a headband with a synthetic leather suspension strap that distributes its 372-gram weight very well. Sound-wise, it provides a highly balanced, neutral frequency response with realistic bass, beautiful mids, and...Read more

stwgames.eu

21/02/2025

Hifiman Sundara Open-Back Review - The Queen of Affordable Audiophilia

The STWGames Italia review crowns the Hifiman Sundara Open-Back as the "queen of accessible audiophilia," praising its exceptional price-to-quality ratio in the €260 price bracket. Weighing 342 grams, the headphones features a minimalist matte black and silver aesthetic, combining an aluminum frame and comfortable hybrid leather/fabric earpads that prevent ear contact during long...Read more

stereo-head.it

29/05/2021

Hifiman Sundara: Hifiman Refreshes Its Entry-Level Range - Review

The Hifiman Sundara is a planarmagnetic headphone that features a significant design departure from its predecessor, the HE400i, moving toward a more robust all-metal construction with matte black earcups and a functional leather suspension headband. Despite the metal build, it remains relatively light at 376 grams and is designed for easy drivability due to its low impedance and 94...Read more

alpha-audio.net

08/04/2018

Hifiman Sundara Over-Ear Headphones Review - Design", "Hifiman Sundara Over-Ear Headphones Review - Appearance

Alpha Audio's review praises the Hifiman Sundara as an exceptionally musical, over-ear planar magnetic headphone priced at €500. The reviewer notes that its matte-black anodized aluminum and metal mesh construction offers a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. Weighing 372 grams, it is lightweight for a planar model, and its asymmetrical leather ear pads provide soft, excellent long-term...Read more

hifi.nl

17/02/2019

Hifiman Sundara - Hifi.nl

This review by Jamie Biesemans highlights the Hifiman Sundara as an impressive evolution for the Chinese manufacturer, serving as a highly refined spiritual successor to the pioneering HE-400. Priced standardly at €499 (with a temporary Chinese New Year promotion slashing it to €349), the open-back headphone is praised for its exceptional value-to-performance ratio. Key design...Read more

alpha-audio.net

08/04/2018

Hifiman Sundara over-ear headphones review

The Hifiman Sundara is an open-back, over-ear planar magnetic headphone that represents the brand's shift toward high-quality, long-lasting reference models, replacing the older HE400. Founded by Dr. Fang Bian, HiFiMan utilizes advanced nanotechnology to produce incredibly thin drivers. Named after the Sanskrit word for "beautiful" or "attractive," the €500 Sundara aims to deliver a...Read more

hvt.nl

08/05/2018

HifiMan Sundara - HVT

In this HVT magazine review, Michel van Meersbergen evaluates the HifiMan Sundara, an open-back, over-ear planar magnetic headphone introduced to replace the popular HE-400 series entry-level reference line. The review places significant emphasis on the necessity of a proper burn-in period, highlighting that the importer initially delivered a unit with only 50 hours of use....Read more

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