The 400se Shouldn't Exist.

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I hope you enjoyed this HIFIMAN Sundara vs. HD650 vs. HD600 Shootout and came away with some valuable insight. Questions? Comments? Requests? Leave them down below! Also don't forget to like, comment, and subscribe to my growing channel. I could really use your support, feedback, etc.
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[@HomeStudioBasics]

Is the 400se the best Mid-Fi has to offer?

[@paolozafra5499]

My default recommendation for less than $200, He400se + amp. :)

[@JoseFerreira-zb7wh]

Never tried it, but own the k702 and the hd650 and comparing against those 2 I'd say the sennheiser hd560s is a better all round option.

[@MrAnome]

Was my entry to this world, now i own 6 headsets and 3 amps and 2 dacs ... first time i heard it i cried ofc

[@sockhopsinger]

I haven't heard the K702, but I have tried both of the others. While I like the sound on the 400SE better, to me the comfort, or lack thereof, leans me towards the Sennheiser.

[@japkoslav]

It certainly is one of the best I heard in this category. I had the opportunity to test HiFiMan HE-400i and the new 400SE and really liked them, but I like HD600 and DT990 as well :) I love there are so many good headphones in this price range.

[@NotTheOnlyMattAround]

4xx was the first quality headphone I ever bought, and honestly years later I'm fairly confident I could've stopped there and been completely satisfied.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

You're not wrong. :)

[@Kana0211]

For me it was a dt770, then found a focal elear for 230 so couldn't pass that up, but then it broke in a week. Now it's out for repair and I just got a he400se to play around with. Still otw to my house.

[@alostcat]

​@@Kana0211how is the 400se ?is it better than 770 pros?

[@asan1050]

Thanks Much! Dude , your reviews are off the wall!

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Lol thanks! Like Vans? I'll see myself out. 🤣😂

[@Krimxon_]

this guy scares me

[@airun5362]

Thumb up for montage! Well made btw. Surprised you did it, cause mostly people no intro video or "generic" ones.

[@chungang7037]

Months later I finally understand the opening part of the video. The road is one's journey into this hobby. The guitar at the end of the roadblock represents a warning; if you go past this point you are in the wilderness, and you may never find your way back to enjoying just music.

[@raimee81]

Interesting review. Been looking at the 400SE because I found them locally very cheap. Surprised me actually because when I first heard about them they were in discussions with some higher tier headphones. Locally for me the 400Se is about USD116, while the other 2 you recommended are at USD 286. Yeah. Prices are just a tad different.

[@alfalfamojica3972]

Love the Lynchean vibe review, especially the intro!

[@TudorAdrian]

Having owned (still do) these as well as the HD600 (and a bunch of other cans), I can say that they're my most enjoyable pair of headphones. I usually go with convolution EQ on any headphones I use but there's something about the HE400SE's low-end delivery where you can really "feel" the bass being there; not overbearing or anything but very pleasant in a nice way.

[@dtz1000]

It's lacking low end compared to the hd600. Really clear sound though.

[@donvittoriosierra]

Of all the cans you have tried, I'm surprised that you haven't reviewed the Audio Technica R70x. That would be a nice one to check out.

[@softconstruction]

Shower scenes, mysterious card outlays, and great points about all the headphones involved. Plus the attitude! Thank you but also for making it important to focus on how to enjoy the music. How are the grandchildren? Are they enjoying working in the coalmines?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Thanks man! Grandchildren are good. We're looking after the plants today. This wind tends to knock stuff over. One of the tomato plants got hit by the wind and is drooping badly because the roots were disturbed. I had them re-pot it and it's going to take a while for the plant to re-establish itself. Hopefully it pulls through!

[@softconstruction]

@@HomeStudioBasics may they grow tall...do you talk to them? Play them tunes?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

@@softconstruction Yes, I baby them so badly lol. Anyone who happens to see me probably thinks I'm some crazy plant man. LOL. I talk to them and nuzzle my nose into their leaves Whispering sweet nothings. Sweet talking them into growing bigger vegetables for me xD I heard somewhere that it works but I haven't researched much into that. My pepper plants are indoors now because I had read they can't really tolerate cold and will shut down the fruiting process. So I'm going to play them some John Coltrane/Stan Getz soon. Hehe. One is currently growing 5 peppers, and another has a big one growing but I think the plant has fallen victim to blossom end rot which is very disappointing but inevitably part of the learning experience. It either got attacked by something in the root system and/or is lacking some specific nutrients. This year was mostly an experiment to see if I could grow from seed. Thus far it's been a success but next year I'm going to get really serious about *when* I plant because it's very important.

[@softconstruction]

@@HomeStudioBasics there's better be videos of them swaying and whispering back, a love Supreme, a love Supreme...great that you can grow them indoors. There's a lot to be said for having living things inside apart from roaches!

[@alexandredeoliveirapenna198]

Hi Stuart! How are you? And you Grandchildren? I loved that video. I have an K712 that I love so much and will not sell, but I wish to try something different, I'm between HD600 (HD6XX is so hard to find here in Brazil) or HD400se. If you need to choose between these 2, which one you will choose and why? Thanks a lot and keep doing these amazing videos and website!

[@kevinrams]

Great production value in this video. This actually makes me want to try them. I like the outro rhymes, too. How dem grankids?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Hey Kevin! Thanks for the love and continued support. As for the grandkids, DEY AIGHT. LOL.

[@MrBlitzpunk]

I've been using these and EQ'ing them to crinacle's IEF neutral, and honestly the only thing i could ask for more is the soundstage. I really dig the soundstage on those egg-shaped hifiman. I'm thinking of getting the Edition XS in the future

[@JoelHernandez-tz3vk]

Wonder if resoldering the wires to reverse back the polarity may at least partially fix that.

[@elmasjules]

That intro *chef's kiss*

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Thanks Julio! So glad people are enjoying that. It was a blast to make, I'll tell you hwat. *Hank Hill*

[@aurallychallenged]

Hi Stu. Great channel. I really value your advice although it's proving costly. I've only really been listening to headphones for about 18 months and my buying history probably started badly when I bought a Grado SR325X, I know they are a particular favourite of yours NOT. I still like the sound but their comfort and ergonomics are dog s**t and they are barely worn. Things improved when I bought a Beyerdynamic DT900 Pro X, so comfy and exciting. Then I started watching your channel and quickly purchased an AKG K702 which is so good in almost every way except they are a bit bass light and need some amplification. Fortunately, I have an SMSL SP400, ifi audio Zen Dac and Zen Can whose class A power really drives the AKG well and what an amazing soundstage, delicacy and so transparent and definitely not shouty in the treble not for my 61 year old ears and only a ridiculous £109. I thought I'd found my end game mid-fi headphone and then I was enticed into watching your top 5 mid-fi headphones review and I got reeled in again and bought your no. 1 choice the HiFiMan HE400SE. I really wasn't so sure about buying these as I auditioned the Sundara when I bought the Grado's and I was not impressed they just seemed so flat and no sparkle. I shouldn't have worried they are brilliant and so different to the 702s and are harder to drive but running them balanced is no problem, better bass, impact and more warmth compared to the 702s. I'm hooked on your videos because they are so different to everyone else's and I've been working my way through your back catalogue of reviews and stupidly watched your HiFiMan Deva vs Sundara review and thought I needed the Deva but no I must STOP. You are so right with your advice to enjoy the music not the gear. I've fallen down that audiophile rabbit hole of searching for the next best thing in hifi and almost forgotten why we buy this gear. I won't buy another DAC unless my SMSL M500 Mk 2, Soncoz SGD1 (superbly engineered and beautiful - end game for me) or ifi Zen Dac V2 breaks. I've recently bought yet another head amp the Xduoo MT604 with Mullard tubes which is brilliant with the HE400SE and can be used as a pre-amp (thank you cheapaudioman) using 4.4mm out to 3 pin XLRs and into my Audiophonics Class D Hypex power amp and then into Tannoy floor standers, to my ears superb. The 2 volume controls are brilliant for me especially with headphones as my hearing in left ear is terrible, so I just turn up the right volume knob to balance the sound. Balance controls are brilliant, you can stick DAC filters up your arse unless you have bat ears, bring back balance controls for us aurally challenged born again audiophiles. I promise to still watch your videos but must promise myself not to buy any more gear despite your recommendations. I MUST start listening to music again. Keep doing what you're doing Stu it is so appreciated and your insight and knowledge is so valuable. P.S. I haven't watched your Cycle of Despair video yet but perhaps I should have watched that first!!!!!

[@custodiojuliao4583]

@home studio basics what do you think about using these for gaming? you made a starking review for gaming of the DEVA, but im not really interested in the bluetooth connectivity. do they absolutely require a amp to run?

[@Silverjerk]

Get a Schiit Hel 2E, 400se and get a good EQ app for Mac or Windows and you have the most versatile midrange setup you could ask for under $350. Honestly, I don’t think you get much better than this until you’re shopping for entry-level Focals and a more robust stack. I love my HD600, but the fact that I just took them apart to add the CNC copper mass loading mod from custom cans says all you need to know about the HD600: a great pair of cans that’s not perfect, and may require some additional love to meet your needs. For the price, that’s not a good place to be when you’ve got a planar knocking on your back door ;)

[@JogieGlenMait16]

I'm actually considering this over the Sundara. It's mostly on the price. Next, I just want to try out planar magnetic for myself. See what's it all about.

[@dtz1000]

I bet you tried it and were a tad disappointed. This headphone is actually a downgrade over the original he400s which was around the same price.

[@gamedroid4lifegamdroid4lif54]

Hi Mr Stu what kind of amp you recommend for use of this headphone with the PS5???

[@s_pee9851]

Love ur vids, I'm kinda new to audio and searching for a headphone amp for around 150 to 200 euros (inc shipping). My options are fiio k5 pro, ifi zen dac v2, topping dx3 pro+ and the schiit fulla e for amp dac combos. My question is wether it is a better option to opt for one of those or buy a standalone headphone amp (eg schiit heresy / magni 3+ for 180 eur shipped or jds atom amp + for 170 shipped) And a small usb dac for the price ? Regarding source files mostly 24 bit FLAC so a 24bit / 96k dac should be enough (my laptop has already 24/48k built in audio as far as i can tell so i might not even need the dac to begin with). Rn the heaphones that im considering buying are the k702 (140 eur) or the he400se(120 eur) and i am sure that somthing like the e10k would drive those fine but i would prefer to be set power wise at least just in case i buy smthing harder to drive in the future.

[@Inlakesh91]

Takstar ha101

[@universeman657]

Recently got the he4xx (considered these, just decided against it cause I wanted something with a bigger soundstage than the 6xx). Also, I got the 4xx open box for $109. I think the 400se is about $90 from hifiman b stock, too. Also, got a Qudelix 5k, which is working great with the built in eq.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Nice! Let me know how that build holds up. Great to hear from you btw. It's been awhile. How's the music going?

[@universeman657]

@@HomeStudioBasics I am doing all right, got more into mixing and mastering music for a while, but not doing too much now, as I just started college

[@HomeStudioBasics]

@@universeman657 What are you studying?

[@universeman657]

@@HomeStudioBasics mechanical engineering

[@fabiok5958]

Hey amazing video as always, i have a question I own the Sundara and the 560s and i like them however they can sound a but boring to me because the 560s sounds so right that they can sound boring ( if that makes sense) but you hear al the details in the music and that’s awesome. and the sundara have a good overal sound with amazing imaging and good treble, but it sounds a bit boring to me like it’s technical very good but besides that it’s just alright cool (I hope I explaind this makes sense) and after watching this makes my consider buying either the 400se or the 702. Do you think it’s worth it? Thanks. ( note that the 400se cost around 130€ and the 702 around 160€ In Europe)

[@IlPorseo]

X2hr

[@RinceJester]

I feel both attacked and happy I stumbled across the channel. Keep it up

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Haha, Welcome to the neverending Rabbit hole! I'm glad to have you.

[@IndivisibleByZero]

You need to review the HiFiman HE-R9, I can't believe those were originally $600, at $369 I still feel those are overprized, have been seriously thinking on selling mine.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

What you'll notice with a lot of gear is that they drop the price quite considerably because original retail is rarely worth it and/or the headphones are just bad. It's so funny to me when I see people hyping everything and then months later crickets. This is why I'm always realistic when I review things. It's kind of embarrassing how bad people look after the fact lol.

[@vvidover]

What an intro! Is this a horror film or a headphone review?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

LOL. Thank Hayku (the beatmaker in the description) for the inspiration lol. You should drop him a comment because it was all him. Funny you mention films. My goal moving forward is to make better videos, but also gravitate towards films rather than boring reviews because I've always been an artist, and now that I finally have a better camera the sky's the limit!

[@rongwei5817]

Hii may i know does the btr3k enough to drive this beast? 😂 or maybe using the 2.5 balanced will be enough? Do let me know. Thanksss

[@antoinep9733]

This video was off-the-chart funny Mr Charles, keep doing what you’re doing, love your evolving style. I’ve never been so entertained by tech content before. That intro… 😂

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Thanks, Antoine! Your support over the years has been invaluable. Much love to you my friend!

[@DarrenRoberts123]

Is the 400se harder to power than the K702? I'm about to purchase one and I only have a scarlett 2i2 interface which I'd like to stick with if possible. If one of these will power better via that I think that'll help make my decision.

[@kazumasatou6124]

I have all 3 and i definitely agree that the 400se is the most technically capable of them. Eq’ing in the bass is extremely good and goes toe to toe with my sundara. Better yet i only got it for 70 usd from a guy who never used it since he switched to iems. Vocals can be too bright some times though.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Nice! 70 USD wow.

[@pillowboy7995]

What do you eq it to?

[@kazumasatou6124]

@@pillowboy79955db boost in 20hz

[@billy120745]

Digging the style evolution bro

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Thanks man! I enjoyed making this one but it got exhausting towards the end lol. I still think I prefer putting more thought into the videos and making things that I'm proud of and are valuable to me (and potentially others) over just spamming weekly uploads. It's a tough line to toe.

[@TheN3ckol]

Hi there! I already own the hd600 from Irland (bought for 150$ in perfect shape). For me there is lack of low end and stage. Love hifiman anada, but these are too expensive for me. I have monolith m1070 but these are bit to warm for me (like k712 pro). (gonna send monoliths back) I have neutral aune x1s pro. Should I try he400se with additional new cabel or just go straight forward to sundaras? Maybe something different? I was wondering if 400se are even any upgrade to hd600.. Would be grateful for your opinion. Greets

[@dtz1000]

I have the hd600 and tried the he400se before sending it back. The He400se is clearer than the hd600 but lacks the low end of the hd600. Overall, I prefer the hd600 but it's very close. For vocals I prefer he400se, but the lack of bass is the issue. Also it is a slight downgrade over the earlier he400s model.

[@GHSA1994]

Does the stealth magnet V2 worth the extra money for it?

[@narcoleptic-insomniac4663]

Just ordered my first Planars after years of wanting to try them (I’m disabled, so prices really matter to me). My hd58x’s were $130 from drop directly, two years ago. The bstock 4XX’s are $89.99

[@dm5177]

Hope you're doing great and enjoying your favorite tunes. How do you like your first planar? How does it compare to the 58X? I want to get my first serious set of headphones and I have been on the fence about the 58X versus a similarly priced planar. From the reviews I've seen, along with the long-term reliability factor, I'm leaning more towards the 58X. However, I would sooner pay for a better-value set if there's one.

[@Tealc2323]

The video description is clogged with all sorts of stuff I can't find the purchase link.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Fixed. It's at the top now. I actually didn't have any links in there before.

[@WakeUpB2P]

Ultimately do you prefer the 6XX or HE400SE ? If u could keep only one which one you would keep stu ?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

It's so tough. Both? Lol. If I already had them both and someone held a gun to my head, I'd probably keep the 6XX to be honest as I think it would last longer over the long term. This is very very close though. 400 series planars have always slightly outperformed dynamics in terms of timbre and resolution but it is pretty close. The other thing is that the pads on the 400se wear out quicker so you'll be replacing them more often. The glue issue on the back is still there though I mitigate that as much as possible by not taking them off much. Comfort is about even though maybe a slight edge to 6XX. I just have a bit more faith in Sennheiser products than I do HIFIMAN, but HIFIMAN has improved tremendously over the years.

[@MegaFabioRocks]

Just got the 400se, Dang this thing is massive! Now I am curious about the he6 se2, are you planning to review it?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Hey man! Maybe. You still liking the 400se? Great resolution right?

[@oioionionone]

saved the shit out of my day, for which I'm eternally grateful

[@robertosans5250]

Just got the AKG k702 but now I just pulled the trigger for the HF 400SE, thanks to your recommendation. Let´s seen which is better.

[@trocheobuz7276]

Hello, what do you think about them in relation to k702?

[@lastweekonearth2968]

Wha'ts the verdict? I'm looking at both

[@DarrenRoberts123]

Would be great to hear your opinion on this??

[@luizengrazia5169]

U still alive?😂

[@MegaFabioRocks]

Hi stu! You should check also the r70x (lost brother of hd600 and hd650). It is an amazing headphone (I prefer them to the beyer dt 1990)

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Yeah been meaning to try that one for a long time now! Looks to be the most neutral I've ever seen on a graph.

[@biggiej1140]

Very nice review, professional

[@Firearmerr]

after working sound engineer with great dynamic headphones like sennheiser hd 560s-6xx , akg612, just bought 400se almost new from hands for 70 usd in russia, i was blown away in a minute... this is the SHEEAAT! and after 2 simple eq touches this is the best linear headphone on budget for mixing etc..

[@HansProbs]

So lets complete the package... What is your top dac/amp recommendation? I hear these are HUNGRY... so whats the lowest priced dac/amp that can make these sound close to their best?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

They ain't that hungry lol. I personally wouldn't get too caught up in all of that but I'll leave it there. Never had an issue with any Amps and DACS I've used with these. I'd probably just recommend an ATOM or K5 Pro.

[@matfalkner]

@@HomeStudioBasics I’ve got the btr3k is that going to be enough?

[@Njinx_]

@@matfalkner Can't speak for the 400se but I do own the X4 and I understand that it has very similar power requirements. If you're running it balanced then you should get pretty good volume, but I'd still recommend getting something more powerful. Whether that be a desktop amp like the JDS Atom or something portable like a btr5 or Qudelix 5k is up to you.

[@tendousj]

Can the shanling UA3 runs the HE400SE? How about your KA3?

[@JeffB1961]

i'm 61 and want to get something a little decent . had a set of sennheiser 555's that eventually developed a short i couldn't fix myself (aka i F'ed them up) and i've gotten by with a set of shp 9500 for almost a decade now . i have a lil tinnitus so i wouldn't mind something with a little extra sheen , and i've never been happy with the 9500 bass compared to my old 555's . anyhow i of course want what i get to sound good for music , but , i really want some headphones to compliment streamed movies and action/space series . i think the bigger (better?) soundstage headphone might be more of what i want so the 702 ? i don't want to spend the 712 price . i'll at least be using a smsl su6 amp and i'm considering a topping l30 ii amp . the planars seem very interesting though . and in memory of my much loved old 555's , how do the sennheiser hd560s fit in that mix ? thanks , jeff .

[@HansProbs]

Im still in shock you haven’t reviewed Hifiman XS yet. After your impressions on Sundara and the Ananda, we NEED clarification on how this compares! Mostly to Ananda since I believe you definitely liked that headphone.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

I'm actually demoing the XS now and comparing it with Arya and Ananda. Stay tuned for that shootout! I was supposed to get it a while back but there were some issues with shipping.

[@HansProbs]

@@HomeStudioBasics yo man, hows that review coming?? haha no rush, just really looking forward to it!!!

[@Inlakesh91]

Never listened to sennheiser or 400se, but I have two akg k702 headphones. Once had q701, but decided to make a mod and I stopped liking them, had to sell them and bought two k702. I highly recommend buying perforated ear cushions to them, the sound is the same, somewhere even changes to the more pleasant side. Cushions from AlieXpress are almost identical to the "dekoni", the only difference is some characteristic smell, which over time will disappear. But I like the sound of Aliexpress even better as the paralon itself is a bit firmer, so the bass is going to be more elastic. In general, I highly recommend to buy, I'll leave the link. In general I like alg k702 very much, I listen in conjunction with zishan dsd + takstar ha 101. Takstar ha 101 portable amplifier works very well with these headphones, whistles without an amplifier can not cope so, there are lotoo paw s1 (plays fine, but when there is also takstar, it's better with it), the amplifier does its job. Also there is a replacement xlr cable, oyaide hpc-22w, which adds precision and treble, but it is not always comfortable, with the original cable sounds a little softer and not so harsh. Oyaide hpc-22w is good for classical and jazz and trance, Club, as everything plays a little more accurate, and if hip-hop, rock, pop, the original cable is more comfortable. But in general, it's all subjective. In general, thank you very much for the reviews, I always watch you. sl.aliexpress.ru/p?key=YgesxcL

[@MrDamburger]

How do these Hifiman headphones compare to m50x or soundcore q45?? I'm doing music production using takstar pro 82 but need clearer headphones and I'm so lost

[@replaygoplay7919]

he400se beats em, not great for mixing but amazing for any media

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Yeah, they aren't too great for gaming either, but I may go K702 for mixing which is what I use for hip-hop in addition to Yamaha HS7. homestudiobasics.com/before-you-buy-an-akg-k702-read-this/

[@sidethan]

I have a he400se with a k5 pro ess and it sounds so sibilant it's absurd. So I did the grill and foam mod +EQ and now they sound much better but for casual listening they end up giving me a headache due to the bright vocals. When I listened to lonesome lover by Max Roach I understood the point of these cans. It sounded amazing but the fiio k5 pro ess could barely handle them. Still, lonesome lover sounded best with these hifiman than any other headphone I have. They're just for album listening, you can't relax with them, they're very intense.

[@XPimKossibleX]

So even after mods and EQ they're too much for you? I got such an awful headache for the past weak since I got them, after two days of listening to them essentially non-stop. I kept messing with EQ but I just got more tired and my ears hurt. I've been concluding it's because of my Douk U3 (strong but has abt 45db SINAd in the treble) and because the highs are more present when it's underpowered... maybe because of the fast attack and dynamics..? I was actually about to get a used k5 pro classic to power them "properly". I'm pretty gutted, might try to send them back if I can't make it more listenable for hours on end as that's the reason i wanted new headphones.

[@ALtheShredder]

That intro was amazing!

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Thanks man! That beat definitely inspired me haha.

[@prophecy0731]

...really authentic and organic feeling

[@nadtorus]

What 400se version you reviewed in this video? the stealth magnet version (international) or the non stealth magnet version (chinese)?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Stealth

[@softbread4975]

I bought the v1 (Bilateral Magnet) for $55 in my local market brand new and right now im looking for a DAC/AMP to get started with it. I primarily game. I've no idea what I'm looking for.

[@Njinx_]

What do you think about this new headband vs. the sundara/ananda/idiotnoswivel headband?

[@dtz1000]

That's a downgrade from the sandara headband. It's not as comfortable. It's also a downgrade from the previous version of this headphone, the he400s. It's a downgrade in other areas too.

[@WakeUpB2P]

In terms of pure technical abilities like details and resolution the 6XX still a bit better no ? I have a JDS Labs Element II AMP/Dac should i buy the 400SE or 6XX ?

[@zthreetwo9874]

Hurrdurr six hundos unless you love bAss

[@HomeStudioBasics]

It's close, but as mentioned in the video I do think the Planar sound slightly outperforms in terms of timbre and resolution. The problem is that mid-range on the 400se can really kind of ruin it at times. 6XX seems to be a safer bet overall but the darker treble may or may not bother you. There are just always trade-offs with this stuff. I'd say try both and return the one that you like less because it's too close for me to call.

[@manfrediamato5280]

Can you drive it properly with zen dac v2?

[@Gavanater7]

The 400se loses detail and texture in far away sounds sounding distant and hazy. Midrange is kinda wonky but eq can fix that. 400se is also rendered obsolete to listen to once you get a Sundara or better.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Sundara has the same mid-range issues though + a weird cut at 9-10K. Not worth the money at all when you can get a 400se. So def not obsolete in the slightest though it's jmo.

[@portugasanwa]

I´m on the vibe to colect iem, I got a Hyper X cloud 2 to play but I´m thinking about to get a headphone for music only, I have 5 iem now, from 7hz zero to the moondrop kato in terms of price, what´s the sound comparence to a Kato? Is it worth? off course I got a dac amp too.

[@viniciusariel00]

(i suspect you're a portuguese speaker and i am too, but i'll write this in english) I have the Katos and my he400se arrived this week. Headphones and IEMs are not quite comparable but the main things i noticed are that the hifiman is less energic while having more activity in the sub bass region, if that makes sense. Kato is less resovled in the mid-high frequencies, being (rarely) sibilant with some songs. Sound staging and separation are great on the he400se, and it has that "air" feeling that IEMs are inherently more limited. Overall, they're not that different, but i noticed some details that i didn't with the Kato, and hifiman spaciality is really nice comparing to it. Oh, and voices may seem a little recessed on these cans if compared to the Moondrop ones.

[@julianfrancofarinas4280]

What would be a hifiman 400se upgrade?

[@sheanreal]

I tried he400se, 7506, and 560s and I only prefer the 560s. Very natural sound and wide Soundstage. Didn't like hifiman since it was sibilant for me and very narrow soundstage despite the open back

[@Blackwing2345635]

Maybe your source wasn't able to power them properly? Faced similar issue when tested Sundara, didn't get why everyone was so hyped with them and was pretty confused)

[@Blackwing2345635]

Well, even with my preferences in music (extreme metal genres and electronic music) I still think mid is most important (and quick controlled bass, but that's about genres). And, honestly, mids in HD 600 with european price below 300 bucks bought me) Though I thought about Sundara. Don't get me wrong, planars are great, but will personally I pick Sundara or 400SE as daily driver?.. Also HiFiMans and Audezes feel strange on my head for some reason, looks like weight and that headband. But with my old HD 380 pro and current HD 600 I felt like I'm home first time i put them on in store. And in both cases i didn't thought about buying them, just tried out of curiosity xD With HD 600 - this feeling of "home" was even stronger with their sound. And not because i was using other Sennheiser prior - 380 pro and 600 sound VERY different + there was something off for me in 560s. Strangely enough - in 600 series I got this feeling only with sound of 600 themselves and 660s. So what I'm trying to say - always test for yourself. *ALWAYS* . Ideally - with the gear you are planning to use, but it is not always possible. Sundara was quiet bad and lost some details, bass, sub-bass, and soundstage with Fiio KA3 I had at a time (though they were loud with headroom), while HD 560s, 600, 650, 660s - just a bit less bass, but otherwise no issues. And balanced - no issues at all.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

I can't deal with Audezes or anything 500g +. Demoing the HarmonicDyne G200 and it's just killing my neck lately lol. Weighed it and was like yup. It's 524 or something. Wayy too heavy. The 560S to me is kind of just bland, but definitely an improvement over the original 500 line. I think they fixed the distortion issue, the headphones seem faster, and the bass shelf is tastefully done. There's just always something that bores me about it.

[@Blackwing2345635]

@@HomeStudioBasics for me issue with wieght - headphones feel wobbly and it bothers me( Every head movement - and it feels like they won't stay on a head or at least in good position. Though both Audezes and HiFiMans has good fit in fact, but that feeling... 560s is tuned a bit strangely, but technicallity is great. Some eq - and they will be sooo good. Btw i do not agree that imaging of hd 600 is particularly bad. Not without minor issues, but for the price positioning inside a relatively small soundstage is quiet good. Also i noticed fun peculiarity of my perseption - i tend to like more not too big soundstage in headphones, if it does make any sense. Like, i don't want to think that i'm listening to speakers, because with headphones you don't *feel* sound with your whole body + when you move your head - soundstage follows this movement. One more reason to listen by yourself and to try different things xD P.S. Thank you for your videos!

[@TiagrajI]

I bought some Grados before and went all the way from the SR80, SR125, SR325 to the Rs2e. I changed to Hifiman and Focal and can tell anyone now if you want to get grados, stick to the SR80 and burn the rest :p

[@HomeStudioBasics]

I'd go you one lower and burn all but 60e. Then when you're done listening and trying the Grado sound, burn that one too. HAHAH *ahem*

[@TiagrajI]

@@HomeStudioBasics hahaha. And you would be right as well man. Love the new videos. Keep em coming 😊👍🏾

[@PhoggHawk]

Somewhere I read that the 80e is literally the same as the 60e, the only difference being that the drivers in the 80e are hand selected to be perfectly matched. That's all.

[@wmc_videos]

Sup homie! Love your articles, but your website can seem glitchy with all those pop-up ads. Seriously, I can never get through the “best headphones for hip hop” list.. my browser crashes every time.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Thanks man! Working on that as we speak. The site will be moving to a better ad service and I think most of the issue stems from the AdSense ads. Those will be gone starting 10/16, so stay tuned.

[@ItsGarProduction]

Hey can the qudelix 5k power the he400se?

[@abubttal]

I have the k702 and it was broken and I bought it again. I could not change and I always follow you. Maybe one day you and I will change the k702 with a better headphone.

[@NLspartan117]

The intro cracked me up

[@MrJabinho]

Hi. This must be the bang for bucks device in its category. Topping DX1

[@michbest]

You are the best comedian of all audiophiles :)

[@chungang7037]

That intro was trippy!

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Thanks Chung! Def had a blast with that. I'm really glad others are enjoying it as well :) I want to gravitate toward making films, and things I put more thought into rather than boring reviews, and I think this was a step in the right direction.

[@chungang7037]

@@HomeStudioBasics Yup I enjoyed the editing, keep it up! The jokes are always a bonus

[@chungang7037]

@@HomeStudioBasics I like how yoo mix serious topics and humor, it is something we need in this hobby.

[@Usmvalor3]

Yea, I don't like Audio snobs. That's why I like You xD And that's why I like some audio stores where I live, which is Poland. I don't know how common it is outside of my country, but a lot of times they have "Oh, You don't need overpriced cables with that. They can make a cheap amp or dac deficiencies even more noticable" kind of aproach. And on 400se I think they're price dropped, according to HiFiman's home page. Too bad this doesn't translate to music/audio shops I go to. But Yea, I might pull a trigger on those because I never had planars before. My favs are still Good ol' Samson SR850's and 2nd hand HD600's I got from my godmother (They were seemed almost unused, I think they were a present and my aunt is more of a speaker person)

[@yugao2]

now this headphone is discount for 90 dollar in my nearby store. its crazy

[@GadZookz]

Is Edfome Jones an amazing man who has a pair of tiny ears inside his regular ears. Do these mini earrs function to improve his overall hearing by 1.15%? Well, maybe he is amazing for some other reason.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

That. Was awesome. 🤣😂 Have you ever tried the traditional bedouin wedding feast?

[@GadZookz]

@@HomeStudioBasics No, not yet. What should I expect?

[@koningklootzak7788]

400se or 400i 2020? Why?

[@donvittoriosierra]

Automatic starter audiophile recommendation but for people that know the sound they are looking for, adding an extra hundred dollars or two is nothing to get a 6xx or 600 if it is what will give long term happiness. Let's just not start with 4k dollar headphones though, I would rather spend that on a speaker based setup if it were me.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Tru indeed. I was actually thinking about that in the car today. Is it really a big thing to pay an extra $100? Meh, probably not and if you held a gun to my head, I may end up taking the 6XX or 702 with me on a deserted island. 702 had ballooned way up in price but looks to have come back down considerably to around $150 which is an excellent deal.

[@nkriggg2254]

how to drive that planar. On phone and on PC, what other things i need to buy? thankyou

[@dunumanz1679]

You will need a Dac/amp combo with sufficient power to drive planars (which are kind of hard to drive).

[@dunumanz1679]

You can also opt for a DAC and an AMP seperately as well. I also recommend getting a balanced cable for the he400se

[@nuegonah886]

I definitely LOVE style of your review. And I’m going to buy 400se, but all of my phones are intended to be used with a correction software like Realphones and Waves NX. Would I buy sennhs and akg too? Yes. A bit later.

[@dtz1000]

This review is all style over substance. He said it was the best at this price range but that's not true because it is a downgrade over the original he400s which was sold at around the same price. Hifiman did well to fool people into thinking it was an upgrade.

[@worm6820]

like most hiifmans they can be fragile, but just get them, a cx 31993, and take care of both of them and forget about the rest, if you are genuinely looking to just chill and listen to music and want the most bang for your buck and to forget about the other bullshit, just do it, you'll love it!!!

[@istvanm567]

I can buy AKG K702, Hifiman HE400se and Sennheiser HD599 for around the same price where I live. (Europe) What should I choose? I cant buy Massdrops here unfortunately and with VAT and everything i can buy a HD600 for the 6xx price.

[@dtz1000]

Consider the Hd600 as it is really good. I rate it just slightly higher than the he400se due to the lack of bass on the he400se.

[@Zig08]

Can u Power the 400se with the zen dac ? Tnx

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Yes! Plenty of power. DON'T OVERTHINK IT! 🙂

[@theonlyegg]

@@HomeStudioBasicsthese questions. 🫣🤣

[@SergeVolkovMusic]

Believing As long as I'm breathing There is not a limit to what I can dream

[@AbadyAngel]

are you an actor ? loved the videos tho

[@danterikxx]

is it better than the Deva?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Tough question. Deva tends to be more open (works much better for gaming) but also brighter and more sibilant. I'd say SS on the DEVA is better as well.

[@David_Logr]

what do you think about these vs the HD560S? cuz they cost exactly the same

[@HomeStudioBasics]

560S is tuned better for sure (FR), not quite as good resolution and timbre, but comfort is a bit better and Soundstage is as well. The problem for me and 500 series headphones is that they always end up boring me after a while lol. It's like perfect to a fault or something. I like that Sennheiser added the tastefully done bass shelf and the 560S also has better speed and no distortion at higher volumes. The 598 had a lot of these issues and they did a good job fixing them. I still would probably slightly give the edge to the se but as with the other comparisons, it's pretty close. I just personally don't really like 500 series cans for the long haul.

[@David_Logr]

@@HomeStudioBasics thanks for the lenghty response. really appreciate it!

[@luizengrazia5169]

​@@HomeStudioBasicsWonder how they compare to the K702

[@recycl0ps890]

Can this work without an amp?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

I wouldn't do it. Get an ATOM 2 or K7. homestudiobasics.com/jds-labs-atom-2-review/ ////// homestudiobasics.com/fiio-k7-review/

[@thevindictive6145]

Got these as my first hifi err mid fi whatever headphone. Equed them and took out the dust filter, they sound amazing when paired with fiio K5. Dunno how i am gonna upgrade now, because i got it for so cheap. The DAC/amp (Fiio K5 pro ess) with the headphone(hifiman he400se) for US 130. No way i will ever get good gear for this price ever. I was thinking of the HD600 but at US 400, is it really all that great. But i know the build quality is amazing and can last you decades if you take care of it.

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Yeah times have changed for sure. It's now cheap asf to get great sound thanks to HIFIMAN lol. I paid $330 for a made in Ireland HD600 in 2016 and still have it. It's just not worth that much anymore when you can get a 6XX. The planar sound is definitely an improvement in resolution over dynamics so you'd likely not be missing out on much anyway.

[@stevendavis1135]

This video was awesome lol

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Thanks, Steven! Much appreciated. Working on making better content and more film-oriented things. :)

[@czdot]

These cans and iFi zen dac. Press the Bass boost and then EQ down the bass to your liking.

[@veronicalillo4233]

Such a lonely day is what shouldn't exist!

[@HobbyTalk]

What about your grandchild, sundara?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Meh. Sore subject right now. 😂🤣

[@jhazelw]

These Hifiman he400se sounded way better than my Sennheiser HD6xx so had to yeet those.

[@HansProbs]

never tried the HD6XX but always wanted to because of the lush midrange. this comment validates my 400SE purchase once again

[@Ucada]

The intro is interesting

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Hope you enjoyed it!

[@luigismilazzo]

Where are the shp9500 in this video?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

?

[@luigismilazzo]

@@HomeStudioBasics as a comparison.

[@chungang7037]

This thing is dangerous. I am considering getting one, and when I get tired of it I'll just give it and my trusty zen air dac to someone I want to infect with this hobby! gateway cans indeed!

[@viniciusmiguel3599]

This is an unbelievably underrated channel. It should have more subs than Linus Tech Tips Yes i said it! Now leave me alone ffs...

[@teste-yh5df]

1. invert polarity 2. oratory1990 EQ = beast

[@willobst2772]

I guess I will happily stay with my K-702. There are only two questions in your videos that made me want to really know something new: What car is shown in the video and what about the scar on your left elbow?

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Yeah man I wouldn't get too caught up in trying to find something better in Mid-Fi if you already have a K702. In fact, I may move that to #1 but as mentioned in the video, it is pretty hard to give a static order to these 3 and stick with it. You could go with any of them and be pretty happy. The car in the video was a Lamborghini if I'm not mistaken. 🤣😂 And re the scar; I didn't know people pay that close of attention haha. Let me go check the mirror because I have no idea. Okay, so there is a scar there but the long thing isn't one. I have no idea what that is. Could be an indentation from leaning on something. The actual scar I think is from a skateboarding fall years ago probably. Now you go me all paranoid and staring at my arm LOL.

[@willobst2772]

@@HomeStudioBasics yeah - that’s how to learn more about your own body! 😂 Btw: As a fan of the K702.. try the Yaxi pads for them. They are sometimes a bit loosely and have to be tightened back on, but the comfort and sound improvement is definitely worth it. Did this „mod“ with a nice Beyerdynamic cable fitting the K702 perfectly right out of the box and couldn’t be happier! PS: Lamborghini… well, don’t want to know how many people think you’re doing lots of money with your channel 🤪

[@conrad9race1]

Test airpods pro 2gen

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Perhaps!

[@5ChSP2UxVtswQh-Znzkpbg]

i have these ("V2") and they sounds very well. PC with dac Sabre ES9118, Xduoo MT-602 (GE5654W / 6J1 E PV), Amazon HD (by now). Cheap and VERY pleasurement. EQ APO/PEACE (Oratory 1990) dont like for me.

[@brandonr1729]

...but when you get the B stock 400se for $79 :)

[@ChillToMusic87]

2:26 😂👌🏼👍🏼

[@mikegoddard7354]

What the.. That's it.... Finkel is Einhorn. OMG

[@HomeStudioBasics]

Thursday.