HEADPHONE TIER LIST

[@WiIza_]

Timestamps: 1:05 - Philips SHP9600 1:25 - Philips Fidelio X3 1:47 - Philips Fidelio X2HR 2:02 - Sennheiser HD560s 2:49 - Focal Clear 3:59 - Sennheiser HD800S 4:20 - Sennheiser HD820 4:29 - Monoprice M1060 5:14 - Sony Z1R 5:32 - Drop THX Panda 6:04 - Audeze LCD-4 6:24 - Sendy Audio Aiva 6:43 - HiFiMAN Deva 6:43 - Drop HE5XX 7:26 - Koss Porta Pro 7:51 - Audeze LCD-X 8:39 - Abyss Diana Phi 8:58 - Emotiva Airmotiv GR1 9:33 - Sony MDR-Z7M2 9:58 - Modhouse Argon Mk3 10:34 - Sennheiser HE-1 10:47 - Abyss Diana V2 11:00 - Abyss AB-1266 Phi TC 11:40 - Beyerdynamic DT880 Pro 11:55 - Drop PC38X 12:30 - Focal Utopia 12:47 - Monoprice M1060C 13:10 - Beyerdynamic T1 Gen 2 13:44 - Beyerdynamic DT1990 Pro 14:01 - HiFiMAN Arya 14:35 - HiFiMAN HE1000SE 14:54 - HiFiMAN HE400i (2020 version) 15:12 - HiFiMAN Sundara 15:25 - Audeze LCD-2C

[@olaotanopakunle334]

Thank you! Really expected the uploader to add this himself.

[@svilleda237]

Hero!

[@MrDvneil]

3:07 focal elex

[@CEE80]

Thank you!

[@MrBono303]

THX Cap!!

[@oxaile4021]

Here's an idea: throw the prices and value for money out the window and do a list purely based on sound.

[@johnmc3862]

Then you'd have unattainable headphones.

[@yungmonk9489]

@@johnmc3862no, you’d have a solid product to save for.

[@Barnsey87]

Why don't you do a review channel?

[@modestaslauraitis8199]

True

[@utredutredson1686]

@@Barnsey87 melt

[@BladeSaliva]

"price is no object" First headphone: shp 9600 Because it's good for its price

[@swedgin7097]

Yeah, exactly. And second one, Fidelio, was tier F because "it's not worth the money". Joshua could've been a little more clearer on how these headphones are actually ranked. Still an interesting video though. However I think price-performance ratio is such an subjective thing that it would be best to make tier list purely based on performance and then let each individual form their own opinion on what they consider good value. Also props for putting your list in description.

[@carazy123_]

Well, he did say “not as the defining feature” and “open to any reason,” “if I like the price,” etc. So, he addressed that.

[@leonardodolc666]

i noticed that lol

[@BladeSaliva]

The reason why this is a big deal because I wanted to see how reviewers think of cheaper headphones and how the sound quality compares to the more expensive one without the price factor.

[@carazy123_]

@@BladeSaliva well, overall, most things would remain the same. The only changes would be cheap items moving down a tier (like C/D to D/E) and maybe one or two of the pricey A-tiers moving to S.

I really like the lights, contrast and color on the whole scene in your video. It's like super neutral, fresh and faithful. It reflects the nature of what you want to portray as a reviewer. Keep it up!

[@TheUltraRock]

Joshua at the beginning of the video: ''I will not consider the price per performance''. Also Joshua at 1:32: ''Yea it's not good for the money''.

[@JoshuaValour]

Lol i said price not -necessarily- the defining feature.

[@Tential1]

@@JoshuaValour 0:45 Got you covered

[@shridhan6688]

Delete price from the video, then reupload

[@davidl2662]

@@JoshuaValour I believe most are rated poorly by you to be brutally honest . Totally unfair to the manufacturers, and potential buyers. No standardized testing. Utopia is B tier with the 560s... which the 560s are basically headphones that are designed for children and teens.

[@BladeSaliva]

@@JoshuaValour just delete the price is no object part because clearly price is an object here

[@JBoulter11]

I almost feel like you needed more tiers here. Something between A and S (or an S+ tier) to help give some more separation in the top side of the list. (like phi vs v2 vs 1266)

[@jaws_fm]

I think your background looks good. I like the minimalism of it and it allows me to focus on you and what you have to say.

[@houssamalucad753]

I prefer when he had the bike back there, it added some color

[@jaws_fm]

@@houssamalucad753 true true he could color his treatment maybe

[@azzaisme]

Or does it Because you came down here to mention it /jks

[@DBSTH0R]

Agreed. Sound panels would be C/P what DMS uses, IMHO it is better to stand out and do something unique. However, I do recognize the need for a change over time... Improve on the simplicity I'd say. :)

[@tomchristensen9588]

I think it needs a pop of colour, could use LED light bars like Dave2D, would keep the image clean but add flexibility for lighting and would allow you to keep the set fresh.

[@mandipdas]

I really wanted to see Sennheiser HD 660S, Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro and Amiron Home in that list!

[@StoneUSA]

DT-1990s are on there. If you know where those stack up then you basically know where the DT-770s stack up.

[@cottage_pie]

my uncle beats me

[@purpleey]

@@StoneUSA where

[@Tripokaridos22]

660s amazing

[@jomme918]

@@cottage_pie it stops when you overgrow him, make him regreat

[@gijoemolinaro]

Great in depth review but when the brand isn't always mentioned and just model numbers it's of no use to people who are not as knowledgeable...just saying

[@erikerikerikerikerik]

check the description

[@2slowpoke929]

@@erikerikerikerikerik I still think he has a fair point. I'm not an audiophile like most but I would like to get a good pair of headies. Think the vid would have improved if he just went by brand if he wanted to save time not going "x headphone from Y brand belongs to this tier"

[@erikerikerikerikerik]

@@2slowpoke929 yeah totally the vid would be better if he said the brand, i’m just saying the info is still there

[@lyingpancake95]

"money is no object" Immediately categorizes by price and value

[@M0HAK0]

Lmaoooo

[@JoshuaValour]

Can anyone explain to me why "S" is the top tier? I never understood this.

[@isaacraja]

www.fanbyte.com/features/s-rank-gaming/

[@lucazimmer2006]

"S" has been classified as even better than "A" for easily 10+ years now. If A means excellent S would be outstanding or "in any way superior". Also I just recently found your channel. Absolutely great content. Thank you so much

[@sebleaf8433]

"Super"

[@VishnuPadmanabhan]

"S" is a superlative academic grading given in Japan for 90 - 100%.

[@liamkelly5727]

It was something the Japanese gaming industry came up with. No one knows the real reason why, but most assume it means Superb or something similar.

[@andresgarciaperez3804]

And hifiman ananda? Whats their category?

[@michaelreed649]

I am surprised the HD58X or 6XX are not on the list. Since these are two mainstays in the community and would help define the baseline for Josh, having them on the list is important. Hey Josh, Remember your "know your reviewer" video? Having the most compared headphones on the list would have been helpful. Don't get me wrong, I am very happy the list was made. Thank you for doing the list

[@ryanblack1251]

Because they've been done recently in his tier list with DMS and also they've just been done to death. They used to be around ~A, A-. These days they're considered "B".

[@Shayed07121997]

@@ryanblack1251 these days? lol the tier list is a month old nothing has changed

[@michaelreed649]

@@ryanblack1251 I understand they have been "done to death." The reason to include them is for the establishment of a baseline. I suggest watching Joshua's "know your reviewer" video? That explains why he should have well-known headphones on the list. It helps establish his criteria and ranking.

[@DrAg0n3250]

@@Shayed07121997 The HD 600 series headphones, and a couple of the 500 series, are pretty much "Legendary" tier headphones. Even normal people on the street have probably know that they make headphones that are good. I've noticed that a lot of these videos are causing an almost artificial price inflation in the community imo. Some of my gear in the $250-300 range was $50-100 cheaper last year.

[@pliedtka]

Exactly, Josh what happened?

[@aemicek544]

Love this style of video! I personally don’t think your setting needs much of a change, your clean channel aesthetic is a breath of fresh air tbh (I love seeing your bike in frame though, haha)

[@MrBeastknows]

I like the setup. The simplicity is definitely appealing, and the 2 sound panels up above would look great. And remember, you never have to commit. You can always change things whether by little or a lot, whenever you want to.

[@kkoeff]

Thanks for that honest review. I think both Meze's 99 classics and Empyrean are worth mentioning!

[@cussyrichards6121]

What tier is the 6XX? That's most people's reference, so would be useful to know where you rank it.

[@JoshuaValour]

B all day.

[@Aaditya1ad]

@@JoshuaValour why would you leave out one of the most popular and praised headphone? Just curious.

[@Fischi29]

@@JoshuaValour hd58x b aswell?

[@jacksonpitts6198]

@@Fischi29 probably A. Based off his video with dms he thinks the 58x is better value then the 6xx and you don’t gain a lot for the money with the 6xx. At least that is what he has said

[@Fischi29]

@@jacksonpitts6198 but this tierlist not about value, only performance

[@lolgza]

Nice list, although I think it would be cool if you split open back and closed back into different reviews and have tiers based on that category.

[@mo_venegas]

Woulda liked to see the DT770 pros on here, considering the price to performance on them, but overall great vid. As for the setup, I actually really like it, I just think it needs more color, which I do think you can fix with lighting. I think Alpha Gaming is a great reference since his setup greatly relies on color, so using some concepts from his setup such as flood lights or RGB strips would be very beneficial in just making the setup more appealing to the eye

[@EacyyC]

HD660s arent here either x(

[@CellarDoorCS]

Honestly - no point really. Abyss Diana V2 are in the "A" tier on this list - its a terrible set that I would not even put in a "C" tier. That is how weird they sound, there are other questionable placings on this list, which I have owned. So take this whole list with a grain of salt and then throw it away.

[@beornthebear.8220]

A while back, I was thinking of buying the DT770 Pros, but many of the opinions I read on line had complaints about the left side going out. I ended up getting the DT880 Pros, which sound quite good. The left ear went out once a while after using them, but I sent them to have them fixed, and they came back in less then a week with new pads and no charge. I haven't had an issue with them since, and they are a few years old.

[@florianberlin6319]

@@perma4671 semi-open back

[@djcetra]

lol imagine dt 1990's being in b tier

[@sonydschx200]

Thank you for putting the list in the description

[@Krmpfpks]

Thanks. Nice to see my personal favorite and daily driver in S tier (the focal clear). I like it so much more than the Arya - which I bought over the focal clear because of your reviews and returned.

[@davidmason8212]

What makes you prefer the clear ? Is the Seperation in the clear as good as the arya ?

[@Krmpfpks]

@@davidmason8212 the arya fakes its soundstage by huge dips and peaks in the highs and mid-highs. That makes it seem like it’s a detailed headphone, but everything just sounds unnatural. I was super disappointed at how bad the Arya is. Also the arya has way too little bass for me, but that can be fixed with an EQ. Generally I would call the Arya a scam. The focal clear has excellent detail and bass and separation. It even has soundstage for bass. Except for sometimes a little bleeding from bass to mids in bass heavy tracks at high volume it is near flawless in terms of sound. I don’t like the cable and for my big ears the pads could be a bit thicker, but I really like it. And it’s a beauty.

[@Cesare.Maffioletti]

So funny ahah! I’ve owned the Clear and i actually prefer the Arya so far, more soundstage, more trasparency... Personal preference! Overall however i don’t understand why Josh put the Arya in the A when he always claimed them “the best so far”. So confusing

[@michaelu8474]

Hey Josh. I really appreciate you putting this list out as people are getting their wallets ready for the upcoming Black Friday sales. Thanks for making a list to help us to make better purchase decisions.

[@kokocolllie]

I'm so happy the Sundaras managed to hit A tier. Looking at the other headphones up there and their costs, it's really impressive what Hifiman manages to provide for like $350.

[@mossie125]

What is a good AMP to pair with the Sundaras?

[@camerongreen9328]

Love the list!!! Would be cool if you did a closed, semi closed and open tier list!

[@kenblock00]

great vid! just one question, why didnt u put any of the sennheiser 600 series on the list?

[@ANSWERTHECALLOFJESUSCHRIST]

The thing about the Porta Pros is that they sound big for their driver size and low price, and most important, are FUN! Yeah, they're obviously not detail monsters and the bass, while decently tight, sounds kinda muddy with the lower mids and lacks in the lowest region, but everything sounds distinctive. The imaging is good, and overall, they just hit hard. Music sounds like a party through them. I gifted mine to my niece and have been wanting to buy them again even though I have A tier headphones. You can just put them on and not worry about audiophilia nervosa. The Koss marketing copy says, "Whether you’re listening at home or on the go, the Koss Porta Pro delivers all the excitement of a live performance." and that's precisely what I thought of them even before reading that.

[@dlb1621]

damn I have the 660's 6xx 58x and he 4xx you didnt put them on the list :[

[@shzammpatapon9865]

he said it in a video collab with dms that 58x is an s tier while 660 is a tier due to being expensive compared to 58x

[@arvinsim]

@@shzammpatapon9865 What about the 6xx though?

[@shzammpatapon9865]

@@arvinsim still not cheap enough

[@Lemonzify]

@@shzammpatapon9865 Drop collabs aren't available in EU for cheap so it's irrelevant for me

[@jonaskonrad]

@@Lemonzify It's literally just 10€ more for shipping... Bought my 6xx today for 195€

[@OrdinaryJo3]

I just got the Focal Clears and hooolllyyy crap! I’m hearing things in some of my favorite songs that I’ve never heard before! My wife said they are creepy hahaha.

[@franciscowilhelm1083]

first days with these headphones I almost constantly hummed along in joy. Truly great headphones

[@jacksonville4932]

How are they still? From both of you

[@jacksonville4932]

@@franciscowilhelm1083 .

[@OrdinaryJo3]

@@jacksonville4932 love em. I’m constantly blown away by these things!

[@franciscowilhelm1083]

@@jacksonville4932 Still greatly enjoy them, makes the music sound really alive! I had the chance to compare them recently to my friends Sennheiser HD 800s and I would not trade my Focals for them. Otherwise due to Covid I don't have any other headphone in the same league to compare it with. I think the Focal hits the sweet spot in terms of being not too analytical but still neutral sounding.

[@no00wa]

Can we now get a Gaming Tier list as well? I get that you put the PC38X as "B" tier for anything else but gaming/movies but that's not what they are designed for as you so perfectly explained yourself. I would hope people would not get these if the only thing they did was listening to music. Love that you didnt take price into consideration as you put this list together!

[@ShortHandedNow]

@Anon He needs to review more units that are known for their performance in Gaming. (AT AD700x & AD900x come to mind). Then a more substantial list could be made.

[@no00wa]

@Anon We're on this channel for a reason aren't we ? (hinting at if I would want or own a razer/corsair/logitech/ headset then I wouldn't comment) ;) I still consider my k712 pro's and Fidelio x2's "gaming headsets" as that's what I use them for and where they shine.

[@ericwilestech]

Man, you need to dig into the bag of discontinued headphones like the HD700 or the Focal Elegia. Old gems that still stack up aginst the new ones we have today.

[@metal571]

Dog tier list: S: Puck

[@JoshuaValour]

Nah, Puck S A B C lol

[@alexp3577]

I wish you would just randomly do a similar tier list video also with price barely being a factor, even including new headphones you didn't review. Or perhaps it could be fun to see on the headphone show podcast with everyone participating

[@metal571]

My channel is over. But yeah I'm trying to decide if I want to be interviewed by DMS, since his interviews are so damn good. If you think that would be worth watching for some reason then thumbs this up

[@alexp3577]

@@metal571 yeah, I know it's over, but a man can dream :D

[@davidmason8212]

@@metal571 Hi jason how are you doing. I would like to ask you have you ever tried to use clear pads on the elex ? I have heard that if you swap the pads of the elex with pads of clear , the elex will sound just like the clear.

[@xcelpast]

Where does the Audio Technica M50/beyer DT 770/AKG K712 place? Do they place at all?

[@WR3ND]

I looked up "ATH-M50XBT" on KZbin and got recommended this video... _for me._ -.-'

[@MusicLover-01]

Second that for the K712 Pro, it's arguably unbeatable for price / performance.

[@weyderwarr]

@@MusicLover-01 I much prefer the Hifiman Sundara over the K712 and the Sundaras are cheaper.

[@MusicLover-01]

@@weyderwarr In the UK Sundara are more expensive c.£300 and the AKGs are c.£200.

[@brunorodrigues2661]

Do you really notice the difference between akg and sundara ? I've bought akg k500 mk2 a few years ago and I'm pretty satisfied because it was my first audio headphone. I was considering to upgrade soon as it broke it in one side and the Sundara looks very appealing.

[@ShortHandedNow]

This should definitely be an annual thing! Would love to see more Audio Technica products in future reviews as well seeing as the AD 700X, 900X, and 1000X are incredible gaming cans (Superb imaging and soundstage!)

[@davidmason8212]

And r70x

[@moiznahmad]

Have had my Sundaras for years and they're still some of my fav cans I own. Really excellent headphones and the build quality has held up amazingly well over countless hours of usage.

[@bladerunner4980]

And the Meze Empyrean?

[@HiLoMusic]

My favorite headphones of all time :)

[@heretustay]

Also curious where the 99 classics would go 🤔

[@4EverJoyDivision]

Perhaps the answer is in the description of this video: "They are affiliated links that help pay for this KZbin channel". Get it?

[@eatonleo]

For me, B. Easy to drive, but the sound is just no match with S tier 1266 or Voce, and A tier LCD4, SR009s

[@wholetthedogsout3727]

I got myself a focal clear after watching your review. And you are so right about it! Thank you, thank you, thank you!

[@filmjkk]

I think lighting wise you made it super clean and minimal so having some textures on the wall would add a little bit of depth while still feeling minimalistic (especially if you stick to white/gray/black sound panels that could be 3D)

[@kato2395]

Quite surprised after all these years you're still putting the MDR-Z1R at such high regard, I am really interested in the MDR-Z1R too

[@rayndooma5624]

So grateful you put this tier list out! Great way to get condensed reviews about most of these amazing headphones, although I also enjoy watching every individual review of each one. I've been eyeing out the DT1990 Pro for a long time, and seeing you put it in B-tier has helped solidify my future 1st audiophile purchase. Now I just need to learn more about building a budget sound system to power it.

[@Thee_Jadex]

Oh how did they turn out for you? Was heavily considering getting one it really seems to fall really close to what i want out of a headphone while also being one of the more affordable ones on the list

[@rayndooma5624]

@@Thee_Jadex Hey man, I haven't been able to purchase the headphones, along with a whole sound system to go with it, due to covid and world issues making living expenses worse for me (and for everyone). Still want to get them one day tho. Hope you can get a pair for yourself.

[@Thee_Jadex]

@@rayndooma5624 Oh that sucks ): and ya i actually placed the order for the headphones a little bit ago, now im in the midst of trying to find a adquate ampifier for it :P

[@rayndooma5624]

@@Thee_Jadex Enjoy it my friend!

[@fastshark-wq5cw]

@@rayndooma5624 Review time?

[@chaseroyell7227]

Not that its important, but I always liked seeing your racing bike in the background. Its cool, flashy and I wish you would talk about it. Otherwise Josh the background doesn't really matter. After 10 seconds I don't even "see" the background anymore. If anything, change the back ground up a bit in each video. It keeps things interesting. Great video as always. I always look forward to them.

[@chrisodillman3355]

I bought the lcd x after seeing a bunch of reviews, exactly all of them.. i listened to them for a few days and was convinced that they are good.. but then something interesting happened.. i really listened to them with my eyes closed.. that was the moment i realized how good they really are .. and that there is a difference between listening to music and really listening to music :-)

[@braisedtoast9002]

Fellow lcd-x owner here. Lovely headphones.

[@Eucalypten]

The idea that there is a measure of value apart from monetary value is sometimes called "use value." Love that you are making a list based on it!

[@aznablerey398]

I literally JUST got the SHP9500, and have to say they sound rather natural. Soundstage is pretty good, too.

[@chrisp.5272]

I have the the SHP9600’s and the Sennheiser Game One’s. Absolutely love them both, considering the HD490, HD650, or HD800 next. Really surprised the 650’s didn’t make this tier list. Gotta be B tier.

[@ollysombrero8427]

I saw the thumbnail and thought you were Lew in his old studio set up.

[@robm321]

I prefer the minimalist background myself. Keep up the good work!

[@aceofspades6667]

ooooh shizzle our boy valour is on the tier train! Just got the focal clears off headfi for $500 and in pretty decent shape. Buy of the year for me!

[@davidmason8212]

Luky you

[@Firenmage433]

Really want to try the clear vs my incoming auteur. The used prices are right for me

[@razetw]

Congratulations! Nice buy!

[@tokidub5175]

I assumed at least 1 pair of Audio Technica headphones would have made it on the list.

[@InfanitlyGaming]

Considering the m50x’s are like the most popular headphones for the mass market/entry level

[@ramonvives1674]

And AKG and Stax and Ultrasone, and....

[@PakkiNakki]

@@InfanitlyGaming m50x aren’t the only headphones from AT

[@Juanguar]

@@PakkiNakki no but they're the most popular read the comment again

[@enyx9638]

Does the Focal Clear really belong in S tier? I seem to remember you preferred the Arya and LCDX over the Clear at the end of your review of the Clear? Correct me if I'm wrong.

[@DrPmach]

Yeah, it has a pretty crap soundstage lol. I've owned them.

[@rafael6693]

@@DrPmach i bought them two days ago. you are kind of right in the soundstage department it is like a wall of sound coming to you at the same time. however the cons stops right there and everything else is very good for what it does. also imo the clears are too warm for my liking. of course the details are all there and you can listen to anything and it will sound good. not going to lie i would also want to get the aryas to complement this ones

[@DrPmach]

@@rafael6693 totally! I then went to the Aryas and although they are great, they aren’t as fast as the clear. Ultimately, I’ve found my end game in the Sony MDR-Z1R. Nothing comes close for me in terms of music enjoyment. Crazy big soundstage as a closed headphone.

[@rafael6693]

@@DrPmach what do you think were the biggest differences you saw as soon as you bought the aryas from the clear?

[@DrPmach]

@@rafael6693 Arya has better instrument separation, much wider soundstage, and better bass and mid base. Clear is faster as it’s a dynamic. Overall, I enjoyed the Arya much more than the clear. That being said, they’re both really good.

[@zainash3320]

Hey man, obviously this list scratches the itch of a lot of audiophiles. Buuut I think if you did another tier list but included more mainstream headphone options (Apple AirMax, Sony 1000MX4/5) it would be your highest viewed video. Also if you said the name of the manufacturer before the model name I think it would be much more informative, or even had it written out in the video with perhaps a photo of the product. Just some feedback bro! Thanks

[@bobertp2835]

You've done an incredible job setting up your studio for your videos in the past, so however you choose to set it up is going to be perfect

[@cyberedge881]

I've mostly been an IEM guy for many years, but I got the Philips SHP9600 and it actually shocked me with how good it is. This $70 headphone sounds better than most of my IEMs that cost hundreds of dollars

[@cyberedge881]

To explain further, I like fairly warm earphones and with highs that aren't piercing, shouty or harsh. The SHP9600 don't sound dark to my ears, they sound correct. A lot of IEMs and headphones are too bright to me and it actually makes the overall sound seem kind of grainy, distorted and unbalanced.

[@apotheosis6614]

gotta appreciate the work he puts into getting all the info you need in the description

[@tldhthompson]

Surprised not to see Hd6xx or 650. Where would it fall in this chart for you?

[@oscargiovannipatinohernand1221]

DT1990 tier B!!! Happy with my purchase 1 year ago and my decision was made thanks to your review ;)

[@tebo2770]

I bought mine for the same reason.

[@i1pro]

I love mine too... In a tier list for closed headphones it would definitely be A or even S...

[@gypsygib]

Pad swap should put them at A Tier.

[@levelcheap2435]

@@i1pro but they're open, not closed?

[@jakelarntz]

Would love to see Budget Tier listing. Like Samson SR850, Status CB-1, even the SHP-9500.

[@hugevibez]

Woah DMS, looks like the gym has been working out for you.

[@DONNYLAI95]

LMAO

[@aleksjenner677]

When watching on my phone, I can barely see anything on the graph. You should have made it bigger, and also flashed a zoomed in image on the screen as well

[@alexp3577]

He says the name of each headphone when placing it, so I don't see a problem here.

[@aleksjenner677]

@@alexp3577 I watch youtube for the videos not the audiobooks

[@DBSTH0R]

This video just verified my purchse of the Clear over LCD-X or Arya. Thank you. :) IMHO sound panels are "overdone". I'd say keep the minimalism and continue improving on it.

[@jacksonville4932]

Do you regret it?

[@DBSTH0R]

@@jacksonville4932 No. Enjoying it, even dialed in ASR EQ which felt like putting a cherry on top. :)

[@kelvinadimas8851]

@@DBSTH0R so its the best audiophile in your opinion?

[@DBSTH0R]

@@kelvinadimas8851 At the time of my purchase, there wes no LCD-X or XC with revision of their FR. If I was buying today this is the one I'd get. As far as best goes... Haven't tried nearly as many headphones as Josh here. So can't answer that question. :)

[@lizandrotorres8068]

He should have included AKG headphones. They started open back headphones and some of them are amazing for there purpose. Plus they have lots of different price range options.

[@willielast]

I know this is late (but still valid), but yeah, there really should have been at least 1 AKG present here.

[@carazy123_]

Came here looking for validation on my Sundara purchase a couple months back (and was not disappointed!). Really good and concise presentation for people trying to get an overview of where everything stands among the many headphones you’ve reviewed. Thanks!

[@panzeri209]

My first good headset was a Sennheiser hd 598 and it changed the way i listen to headphones nowadays.

[@teok8855]

I've watched your videos and given your top recommendations in the description this tier list makes no sense at all. So you recommend people buy the DT 1990 Pro and yet you rank it lower than the Sundara and on the same rank with HD 560S? Were you taking into consideration the money after all? :/

[@coutopraze]

I think there are other people saying this in the comments but the simplistic background helps to focus on the product and yourself which is the main thing. Think of it as a museum, they're usually very restrained in their architecture with solid white walls to avoid clashing and distracting from the exhibition.

[@piyush10793]

You missed the Hifiman Susvara. I think it would go to S tier based on its reviews.

[@Patagoona]

Left out the Ananda and HE4XX too

[@drlimbo]

It would be S tier ... Price tear 😅

[@Poached_Toast]

Glad to see DMS has gotten to the point with his channel where he can now influence other youtubers to try new stuff, mad love for the both of you guys and I'm glad to see the channels grow.

[@joelsantos662]

Joshua has a really cool, casual and informative approach though, I've watched 2 of DMS videos and I've seen some of his comments and it just screams asshat to me. Can't take him seriously haha

[@Richbroth]

@@joelsantos662 agreed dms sucks.

[@TheChriscrowder]

What do you think of the Ananda? My thoughts are A tier as well, but every HiFiman is there already.

[@davidmason8212]

He said once ananda is all grown up sundara. So yes A tier for sure

[@SteveRyder]

Haven’t read all comments so I don’t know if anyone suggested this, but... have two lists: one that rates absolute as if they were all free, and one that rates value (performance/ price). This lets us see how they do regardless of price and as a function of price. Also, where are the 6XXs?! Also thanks for publishing the list in the description.

[@xerrox1182]

nearly missed this, thank god it appeared on my recommended

[@godlikecat]

don't you check your subscriptions? hahah it's only a couple of minutes old

[@JoshuaValour]

Just came out

[@albertweedsteinthethuggeni7797]

@@JoshuaValour hey josh, is 199 a good deal for x3?

[@ashrafabdillah5369]

@@albertweedsteinthethuggeni7797 in case Josh doesn't reply, I don't think so, no. Specifically because the HE400i 2020 exists which Josh says executes the X3's sound signature and technical abilities much better while simultaneously being cheaper.

[@albertweedsteinthethuggeni7797]

@@ashrafabdillah5369 and I suppose the deva and sundara sound even better than he400i 2020?

[@officialtimothyphoenix]

No Audio-Technica headsets? Interesting. Seems like an incomplete listing.

[@johncrighton4738]

When you call out the headphones it would really help if you identified the brand.

[@papaquonis]

As someone who is interested in headphones, but not a massive fan who’s invested a lot of time learning about all the different models mentioned here, the names, numbers and small, similar looking images kind of made it difficult to follow at times. I would have loved it, if you mentioned the actual brand of each pair of headphones. Otherwise, a great summary of your opinion on all these models.

[@borbetomagus]

Could you do a tier list for DAC/Amp combos? Or recommend the best DAC/Amp combo between $100-$150? Thanks for listing all of the ranked headphones in your video notes -- with additional URLs. Very helpful.

[@razetw]

Too complex to make a simple list. Mqa vs non mqa 1 input, 2, 3? Non balanced ins outs? Balanced ins outs? Portable size vs desktop? Potentiometer build and feel ?? Click buttons vs screen and remote? Clear plexiglass vs plastic vs metal chassis? And that's just the tip. Zeos did a video and had 9 "stacks" and said they're All good just pick one and you'll be fine. Kinda agree unless you have A tier and S Tier money to spend. In which case your A tier and S tier money can buy you 9 stacks to try and keep the one you use the most.

[@godtiermedic]

I have a HD800 non S wired. I made a huge mistake: I bought the Ananda Bt and the sony XM4s for ANC in the gym. The sony's sound so so so muddy and muffled and reflective. I can't believe how I used to think they sounded good in the past before I found the world's clearest bluetooth headset. Giant bumblebee look in the gym it is!

[@Coda-Ch.]

I prefer my X3s over the X2s. Yes, they aren't worth over the X2 if you're buying at MSRP, but at less than $200 they're a steal. I also think X3s benefit from an AMP. I guess those headphones (goes for both X2 and X3 tbh) are my quilty pleasure in a way that I prefer them over most headphones with price tags multiple times over. Philips did something really right for me and my ears.

[@skyhero1888]

Same here x3 over x2 hr I love my x3 with hiby fc4 dac/amp

[@pratamamp]

The simplicity of the look of your videos is definitely one of the reason i like your content josh, soo I'm voting for simplicity!

[@Luke-kb5sc]

Noticing that a lot of these headphone tier lists are missing Dan Clark stuff.

[@RamytRamyt]

Which is an utter shame, IMO. I mean Monoprice, but no DCA? Really?

[@SugaFree2387]

I must be the only one who would put the T1 over the 800. The T1 has better imaging imo, because it can image intimately and spaciously and also it’s just as detailed as the 800, except it has a more natural timbre to it. Also the mids are so uncoloured. In gaming, it’s easy to zero in on someone’s location compared to 800s, because although the 800 can imagine insanely direction wise, it’s hard to tell how close exactly someone is. With T1, you can close your eyes and precisely tell in which room and corner someone is.

[@ZwnUl]

Thanks for this ranking. I really love the Audio-Technica ATH-ADX-5000, I would rate them between HE-1 and HD-800. It would be nice to see your opinion, if you find time you should test them.

[@terryRBNF]

the 5000 is amazing

[@m.b.6129]

Adx 5000 is so underrated. I own these cans too, total neutrality without harshness... Very good base response , airy, and a bigger driver than the hd800. 58 mm. But sadly no one talks about this masterpiece....

[@terryRBNF]

@@m.b.6129 I think it's because it's from Audio Technica which has strong consumer and prosumer roots but it's audiophile appeal is stronger in Japan. I'm honestly gobsmacked at their wood series offerings and of course the adx-5000 which easily equals the best headphones out there and I've heard the Abyss and Utopia.

[@kmwong1786]

Making a tier list is a great way to see your preference and it becomes a quick list for people with same preference. It's your personal tier list so other one's list may be different.

[@jackjack3874]

Great video man.. For someone who thinks Tier lists are stupid, you did an excellent job. Maybe do a tier list for headphones under 300 dollars

[@gucky4717]

Hmm what would be the new Hifiman HE400SE... some people say they are similar to the Sundara, only for 169$.

[@TheRuiner0987]

You did a review for the k712 pro a while back I just wonder where you would rank it on this list?

[@kontrebassman]

If you eq within Oratory1990's profile, I would say it hits between A and B tier. I am comparing to Elex which I listen to without eq'ing.

[@pliedtka]

For me K712 would be C, but I like K612 more

[@kontrebassman]

@@pliedtka Yeah, I hear ya. Have you eq'd them though using oratory1990's or equivalent? You have almost the same soundstage coupled with a lot more bass and midrange. That's why I put them at B-A.

[@octaviodiaz938]

@@pliedtka Like the K712 more, but liked k612 over K701 and 702

[@TheRuiner0987]

I did EQ them but I liked the autoeq jaakopassrn k712 profile more

[@JoNNyCLOUD171]

Is there a reason the HD 660s isn't on here? He reviewed them and did a great job. Seems a shame it wasn't included. I could use the Sundara as a benchmark but I feel I may be missing something as to why it wasn't included.

[@TyBoucher]

I've never understood the hate on the 820's. I tried out the 800s and now stick to the 820's, the sound stage is practically the same but the closed back bass response on the 820's makes all the difference.

[@noname-mt6hz]

It makes every vocal like staged inside a concert. Senheiser soundstage is crazy and surreal like a special kind effect. Classical music outsiders hate it. Senheiser fans hate it more in hd820 like it exposed its nature of infidelity.

[@lostreverb9806]

In the intro you said you wouldn’t take price into consideration. The moment you started the list, you started mentioning price and cost more than anything else.

[@kwicksandz]

I would love to see a ranking like this strictly for gaming performance if your looking for video ideas 😂

[@blessedred]

I think his top pick would be HD 800s followed by DT1990. DT880 somewhere lower but that's about as far as I know.

[@iainmartin9724]

Just ordered my 2020 Sundara following a few of your reviews. Thanks for the great channel man!

[@eeeman]

Hi Joshua, where would you put the Focal Stellias and the ZMF Verite closed?

[@dan-qe1tb]

He had missed the both of them. But had included boutique headphones that I've never heard of like Diana Phi and Sandy Aiva.

[@vaxel7]

Where would you put Beyerdynamic DT990 600ohm? I got a vintage pair of these from 80s, they're similiar to the modern DT990 "Pro" models but NOT the same in sound and feel (modern ones seem to have slightly weaker mids and harsher treble, overall vintage ones sound a little warmer and more pleasant), I find those vintage ones to be amazing, they're exceptionally fun to listen.

[@oldandslow8994]

Simplicity is good for reviewing. Nothing to distract from what is being reviewed. Why haven't you reviewed the DT 770s or DT 990s? Dt 770s are a really good closed back for the price. I tend to wear them more than my DT 1990s due to comfort and isolation in a noisy environment.

[@broyal_gamers1237]

What about for at home in a home office?

[@broyal_gamers1237]

Are 1990s worth the extra 400$?

[@oldandslow8994]

@@broyal_gamers1237 Are you needing closed back? For Gaming or Music.

[@oldandslow8994]

@@broyal_gamers1237 I would say probably not unless you are mastering and have the cash. I hardly use mine anymore due to discomfort. They are really nice for Critical listening but you can only do that for so long without getting a head ache.

[@broyal_gamers1237]

@@oldandslow8994 thanks, I’m in a home office by myself so it dosent matter that much if it’s open or closed, 770 vs 990?

[@bengsynthmusic]

4:00 Isn't that the 800_S_?

[@ashrafabdillah5369]

Heh. I think you just called the 560s as the 5600. Got so confused

[@n27272]

Yeah, me too.

[@davidcoons89]

I was searching the comments for this bc that’s all I could think of as an explanation myself...I was like ‘what the hell did I miss?’ 😂😂

[@warfam_clan6933]

Yes, I had to go back a couple of times to check that because I couldn't find a Philips 5600 wired headphone anywhere on the internet!

[@piperhalliwell9742]

You are my people. I did all the above

[@socksumi]

Have you considered electrostatic models? To my ear a well designed electrostatic is the pinnacle of headphone and speaker design. A good stat unravels recorded detail like no other.

[@deluxesofa]

You should have included Drop aeon x my man and if u did what tier would u put it in

[@ESTRUSMUSIC]

The focal clear are not Clear Mg? In focal site Focal Clear (without mg) are in Home headphones category. Which is right hp? Thanks.

[@abhishekkeraliya8623]

Any chance of reviewing Beyer dynamic T1 and T5 3rd gen ?

[@markrussellsmith]

Thanks - another great video. From your earlier videos I thought you preferred the LCD-X over the Clear, so I was surprised to see them ranked the other way around.

[@pappsa8]

men you killin me,where is the 660s again 🤣?but i think the tier list is cool thing,and Fffffff i like your channel,keep it up 👌✌

[@DrAg0n3250]

The 660s are the 2020 version of the 600, they even come with the storage box like the 600 did. hmmmm... *they sound better than the 600 so I ain't complaining

[@Sineseol]

​@@DrAg0n3250 I had both of them and they are totally different. The HD600 has a mostly linear sound, with a little shouty mid and thin bass, while the HD660s has rich, slightly elevated bass and a little dip in the upper mid & lower treble, so the sound is much more laidback.

[@nitromenoob]

Please don't use ffffff. Don't remind everyone of that shill.

[@zzezzobike]

@@Sineseol interesting , I have 660s with my DarkVoice and at the beginning I was not very happy with the sound I preferred my all time favourite HD 598, but since I bought Xiaomi mi box S as a Tidal streamer, things changed. I love 660s and by comparison 598 now seems brighter and voices are not as full, not real life sort like 660s. Yes, I bought 600 2 times, different ages, and 660s wins overall.

[@pappsa8]

@@DrAg0n3250 hd660s released date was 2017,almost

[@pinkyfloydyfan1]

I like your setup. Dont change it: the minimum in back, the maximum in tests/critics! And... how about the Hifiman Ananda?