New generation HiFiMAN headphones: more comfort, fewer compromises

HiFiMAN has unveiled four new hi-fi headphones: the Audivina LE, Edition XV, Ananda Unveiled and HE600, all of which have been optimized to incorporate concrete technical, ergonomic and environmental advances. Rather than seeking spectacular effect, these models respond to needs identified by audiophiles and sound professionals.

HiFiMAN headphones: a new, more comfortable headband

All new HiFiMAN hi-fi headphones now feature the Gen 2 headband, a composite reinforcement attached to the underside of the headband that combines a lighter weight (30 grams lighter) with improved earcup articulation. These adjustments are designed to enhance comfort during long listening sessions. The manufacturer has made a point of reviewing the ergonomics of its headphones to better suit sedentary and professional uses alike.

Audivina LE: affordable, well-balanced closed-back headphones

Priced at €409, the HiFiMAN Audivina LE closed-back headphones have a pragmatic approach: an injected plastic shell reduces weight and cost without compromising sound quality. This “LE” model is a limited edition, and is largely based on the architecture of the HiFiMAN Audivina model launched in 2023.

However, this new version also boasts a new, slimmer NEO Supernano transducer that produces dynamic bass while maintaining a detailed reproduction across the entire spectrum. The controlled tonal balance makes these headphones a versatile and serious solution for both monitoring and audiophile listening. The HiFiMAN Audivina LE are designed for demanding environments such as a recording studio, while remaining appealing to music lovers who want to be isolated from ambient noise.

• Read: Everything you need to know about the HiFiMAN Shangri-La range
  

Three headphones, two major innovations

The other three models, named HiFiMAN Edition XV, Ananda Unveiled and HE600, incorporate two important technical innovations. The first is Enhanced Magnet technology, which uses a rare-earth-free magnet. As a result, these three headphones stand out from the vast majority of their competitors, which use neodymium magnets. This approach responds to environmental concerns while maintaining a high level of performance.

What’s more, the new Neo Supernano Diaphragm Gen 2 membrane in these three open-back headphones with Planar Magnetic technology is 40% thinner than that of the previous generation. The result is improved responsiveness and more accurate reproduction, with enhanced sensitivity and easier powering.

HiFiMAN Edition XV: the ambitious entry-level model

With its new Edition XV headphones, HiFiMAN takes the Edition series to the next level, while maintaining an entry price of €409. This model features the new Enhanced Magnet and Neo Supernano Diaphragm Gen 2 technologies, in an attempt to make magnetic planar sound more accessible.

Designed as the successor to the Edition X and XS models, it aims to bring technologies previously reserved for high-end headphones to a wider audience. The HiFiMAN Edition XV open-back headphones are positioned as a transitional model into the audiophile world, without compromising on precision or the soundstage.

HiFiMAN Ananda Unveiled: focusing on transparency

HiFiMAN’s Ananda Unveiled Planar Magnetic open-back headphones continue the evolution of an established model by incorporating Unveiled technology, already used on much more expensive headphones such as the Arya Unveiled, HE1000 Unveiled and Susvara Unveiled. The aim of this proprietary technology is to completely free the transducer. To achieve this, the manufacturer removes the acoustic grille at the back of the earcup to eliminate the tiniest refractions and reflections of sound.

This construction optimizes sound reproduction by allowing the rear wave to circulate, improving transparency and impact. Priced at €569, HiFiMAN Ananda Unveiled headphones are aimed at audiophiles who prefer direct, precise and immersive sound, similar to that of a live recording.

HiFiMAN HE600: the return of an iconic model

The HiFiMAN HE600 headphones are a modern reinterpretation of the HE6, launched in 2010 and now a reference for many music lovers. While they retain the original sound signature, their sensitivity (94 dB) and impedance (28 ohms) has been improved, making them easier to pair a with wider range of headphone amplifiers.

Their weight has been reduced by 113 grams compared to the original model, significantly enhancing comfort. Priced at €829, the HiFiMAN HE600 retain the balance between physical impact and sonic refinement for which their predecessor is renowned.

Summary

With these four new headphones, HiFiMAN continues its technical evolution and confirms its capacity for innovation. The integration of a new headband, the use of more responsible materials, and improved sensitivity and comfort reflect a desire to adapt to the expectations of music lovers, without forgetting the brand’s signature sound. The HiFiMAN Audivina LE, Edition XV, Ananda Unveiled and HE600 headphones are available on Son-Vidéo.com.