Oscar Stewart rocks out with the HE600 headphones from HiFiMAN, costing £719.
HiFiMAN, a company long synonymous with the pinnacle of planar magnetic headphone technology, has once again ventured into its storied past to forge a new path forward with the release of the HE600. Priced at £719, these headphones aim to capture the revered sonic spirit of legendary models like the HE-6 and the beloved HE-500, while addressing a key historical limitation: their demanding power requirements. This review delves into whether the HE600 successfully inherits the sonic DNA of its predecessors while offering a more accessible driving experience, exploring its build, features, sound quality, and overall value proposition in the competitive high-fidelity audio market.
A Legacy of Planar Magnetic Excellence
For audiophiles, the name HiFiMAN evokes a legacy built on the groundbreaking planar magnetic headphone. The original HE-6, released years ago, remains a benchmark for many, celebrated for its unparalleled detail retrieval and expansive soundstage. However, its Achilles’ heel was its notorious difficulty to drive, often requiring substantial amplification to unlock its full potential. In response, HiFiMAN introduced the HE-500, a headphone that sought to retain the core sonic characteristics of the HE-6 but with a more manageable impedance and sensitivity, making it a favorite for those who appreciated its engaging sound without needing an industrial-grade amplifier.
The HE600 emerges from this lineage, building upon revisions like the HE-6 SE and HE-6 SE V2. While these iterations stayed true to the driver technology of the original HE-6, they largely retained the challenging power demands. The HE600, therefore, represents a deliberate effort by HiFiMAN to bridge the gap, aiming to deliver a sonic signature reminiscent of the iconic HE-6 and HE-500, but within a more forgiving power envelope and housed in a contemporary design. This strategic positioning suggests a target audience that appreciates the nuanced and energetic sound HiFiMAN is known for, but perhaps lacks the specialized amplification often associated with their most demanding offerings.
Build and Design: A Contemporary Aesthetic with Functional Considerations
Upon first impression, the HE600 exhibits a robust and thoughtfully engineered build. The comfort strap headband, a feature designed to distribute weight evenly, is augmented by a sturdy metal upper band, complemented by subtle plastic accents for aesthetic appeal. The earcups and grilles are constructed from metal, conveying a sense of premium quality and durability. The yokes, which connect the earcups to the headband, are also metallic, offering both pivotal movement and adjustable extension, crucial for achieving an optimal fit.
A consistent design choice across HiFiMAN’s product range is the adoption of a 3.5mm detachable cable, a feature that reviewers often praise for its universality and ease of replacement. However, the included cable with the HE600 is described as being on par with those found in their more affordable models, lacking the premium feel and finish of the fabric-coated cables found on their higher-tier offerings. This detail, while minor, can detract from the overall premium perception of a £719 product.
The structural integrity of the HE600 is commendable, yet its design language introduces a point of contention regarding comfort. While the earpads are acknowledged as good, and the comfort strap headband is generally well-received, the reviewer notes that the yokes often require near-full extension to achieve a proper fit. This could present a challenge for individuals with larger head circumferences. Furthermore, the out-of-the-box clamping force is described as being somewhat on the higher side. While this can be mitigated by gently bending the metal headband, it necessitates a degree of user adjustment to achieve a comfortable listening experience. The reviewer did eventually find a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions of a couple of hours, suggesting that while initial comfort may be a hurdle, it is not insurmountable.
Technical Specifications and Power Requirements
The HE600 incorporates HiFiMAN’s Gen 2 Neo supernano diaphragm technology, paired with enhanced magnet structures. This advanced driver system is designed to deliver the characteristic speed and detail of planar magnetic headphones. Weighing in at a respectable 389 grams, they strike a balance between substantial build and manageable weight for extended wear.
From a technical standpoint, the HE600 presents an impedance rating of 28 ohms. While this is relatively low compared to some high-impedance headphones, its rated sensitivity of 92dB/mW places it on the lower end of the spectrum. This combination implies that while the headphones are not excessively difficult to drive in terms of impedance, they do benefit significantly from a capable desktop amplifier that can deliver ample current. This is crucial for achieving optimal dynamics, control, and overall sonic performance, ensuring the drivers are adequately powered to reproduce the full range of audio signals with precision. The review emphasizes that a good desktop amplifier is not just recommended but essential for these headphones to truly shine.
Audio Performance: An Engaging and Energetic Sound Signature
The sonic character of the HE600 is, according to reviewer Oscar Stewart, precisely what he gravitates towards. He describes it as embodying the "old school" HiFiMAN tuning—a sound that is inherently engaging, energetic, and possesses a remarkable sense of punch without sacrificing intricate detail. This tuning philosophy deviates from a strict adherence to the Harman curve, instead aiming for a more captivating and spirited listening experience.
When testing with "Childhood Eyes" by Yellowcard, an upbeat pop-punk track, the HE600 demonstrated its prowess. The bassline was articulately rendered, allowing for easy tracking, while the kick drum delivered satisfying attack and impact. The headphones’ "snappiness" was a standout characteristic, making snares sound tight and precise. The overall layering of the music was excellent, with instruments occupying their own distinct spaces within an intimate, rather than expansive, soundstage. This deliberate choice in soundstage size contributes to the headphones’ engaging and immediate presentation. The reviewer noted that the violin, a prominent instrument in Yellowcard’s music, remained distinct and well-integrated within the mix, and vocals were centered and clear, surrounded by a well-defined instrumental arrangement. Tonally, the HE600 are described as not overly thick or organic, nor strictly neutral. They exhibit a slight boost in the bass region, a balanced midrange, and exceptionally clear treble that avoids brightness or harshness.
The HE600’s ability to handle dynamic music across various genres was further highlighted with "Overcast" by Bury Tomorrow. Even with the track’s dense mastering, the HE600 managed to prevent it from sounding muddled, allowing each element to breathe. The downtuned guitars provided a heavy, weighty sound without becoming dark, and the double kicks possessed considerable impact. The transient response proved to be a significant asset, particularly during the breakdown, where it delivered a hard and clean impact. The quieter passages at the end of the track showcased excellent drum impact and depth.
Turning to Halestorm’s "Black Vultures," the HE600 showcased their ability to render female vocals with clarity and precision. Lzzy Hale’s powerful vocals were handled without sibilance, and the treble was crisp, detailed, and extended without becoming edgy. The resolution in the treble was particularly noteworthy, rendering cymbals with energy and sparkle, yet devoid of harshness or fatiguing peaks. The overall presentation was described as one that encourages headbanging, a testament to the headphones’ engaging nature.
The electronic-infused pop of CHVRCHES’ "Good Girls" also proved to be a rewarding listen. The pulsating bassline was rendered with accuracy, and the vocals remained clear, detailed, and natural. The layering of synths and other elements was well-defined, and the higher-pitched synths were reproduced without harshness. A subtle comparison was made to the HE-6 and HE-500, with the HE600 perceived as slightly less full and not quite hitting as hard in the bass, but exhibiting a spritelier and cleaner overall character. Despite this, they still delivered excellent impact and depth when required, proving very engaging with suitable music.
For a more technically demanding track, Polyphia’s "G.O.A.T." provided an excellent test. The intricate guitar work, deep bass lines, and dynamic cymbal crashes were all handled with aplomb. The deep bass rumble was easily discernible, and the drums possessed great weight and superb transient response. The guitars swirled around the soundstage with exceptional layering, and the cymbals provided ample sparkle and energy without dominating the mix. The reviewer also mentioned the use of "Playing God" by Polyphia at audio shows, highlighting the genre’s suitability for demonstrating a headphone’s capabilities.
Finally, the review ventured into extreme territory with Suicide Silence’s "Hands of a Killer." This choice was made to underscore the HE600’s ability to handle highly demanding and complex music. The reviewer asserted that a headphone like the HE600 is necessary to extract the best from such genres, allowing individual elements to be heard distinctly. Mitch Lucker’s vocal range, from low growls to higher screams, was reproduced seamlessly. The HE600’s responsiveness and snappy character, combined with their upfront sound, were deemed ideal for extreme genres, following in the footsteps of the HE-6 and HE-500 as excellent headphones for metal. The review noted that while many headphones excel at jazz or classical music, fewer are capable of doing justice to more extreme genres, a niche where the HE600 evidently thrives.
System Matching and Power Considerations
The reviewer detailed their primary listening setup, which included an SMSL D6S DAC feeding an iFi Audio iCAN Phantom headphone amplifier. They also conducted listening sessions with the Luxsin X8 DAC/Amp. The iFi Audio iCAN Phantom, particularly in solid-state mode, was found to be a superior sonic match for the HE600. However, the Luxsin X8 offered the advantage of built-in PEQ (Parametric Equalizer) functionality, which, when combined with AI, allowed for personalized headphone tuning. While the PEQ could fine-tune the HE600 to the reviewer’s personal taste, they ultimately found the out-of-the-box tuning with the iCAN Phantom more enjoyable. This highlights the importance of system matching, with the overarching requirement being an amplifier with robust current delivery. The HE600, despite their improved drivability compared to predecessors, still demand significant power to perform at their peak.
Quibbles and Areas for Improvement
The most significant drawback identified by the reviewer pertains to comfort. While the build quality is generally praised, the fit and clamping force of the HE600 present a notable area for improvement. As mentioned earlier, individuals with larger head sizes might find the yoke extension and clamping force to be restrictive without adjustment.
Conclusion: An Energetic Performer for Demanding Tastes
The HiFiMAN HE600 headphones are positioned as a compelling option for audiophiles seeking a more energetic and engaging sound signature that retains a high level of detail retrieval and control. The review emphasizes that while these headphones can render a wide range of music competently, they truly come alive when paired with more dynamic and demanding tracks. Their ability to deliver punchy, full bass, a clear midrange, and well-articulated treble, coupled with excellent detail retrieval and layering, makes them a formidable performer.
While they may not offer the expansive soundstage often associated with some other HiFiMAN models, their strength lies in their excellent transient response and instrument separation, creating a sense of intimacy and immediacy. The reviewer’s preference for heavier music during the testing period is deliberate, serving to highlight the HE600’s particular aptitude for genres that require speed, impact, and precision. While they can handle more laid-back genres like jazz adequately, their true character shines when pushed with rock, metal, and electronic music.
The HE600 are described as a "fun" headphone, capable of eliciting genuine enthusiasm when listening to heavier tracks. They are a testament to HiFiMAN’s ability to craft headphones that not only reproduce sound with technical accuracy but also imbue it with an infectious sense of energy and engagement. For listeners who appreciate a more forward and dynamic presentation and find themselves drawn to genres that demand a responsive and powerful headphone, the HE600 presents a strong case for consideration, offering a sonic experience that few other headphones can match in this price bracket.
At a Glance
- Build Quality and Features: Solid construction, though comfort could be enhanced. Features include a detachable cable and replaceable earpads, standard for this calibre of headphone.
- Sound Quality: Energetic, engaging, dynamic, and punchy. Delivers hard-hitting bass, a clear midrange, and airy, crisp treble.
- Value for Money: Considered good value, offering a high level of sound performance for the price.
- We Loved: The overall sound signature and its engaging presentation.
- We Didn’t Love So Much: Comfort, particularly regarding yoke extension and clamping force.
- Elevator Pitch Review: A headphone for those seeking a punchier, more energetic sound that maintains detail and control. It delivers impact and depth, offering a fun and engaging listening experience, especially with heavier music genres where it truly excels.
- Price: £719
Supplied by HiFiMAN
Supplied Specifications
(Note: Specific technical specifications like frequency response, driver size, etc., were not provided in the original text but would typically be included in a comprehensive review.)
