HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones: A Rare Gem in Planar Headphones
Update on Oct. 15, 2024, 6:22 p.m.
In the world of audiophile headphones, open-back planar magnetic models reign supreme. But what if you want planar sound in a closed-back design for isolation? Enter the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back, a rare breed that defies convention.
Overview
HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones brings the sound signature of the popular open-back SUNDARA to a closed-back format. It utilizes planar drivers for accurate and natural sound. The stealth magnets reduce distortion. Wood earcups provide stylish looks and ideal acoustics. At its affordable price point, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones planar stands out from the dynamic driver crowd.
Design:
An ode to natural beauty, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones is adorned in striking beech wood earcups. The woodgrain finish adds warmth while remaining lightweight for hours of fatigue-free wear. The sleek headband provides a secure yet gentle fit.
Ease of Use:
With standard connectivity and detachable cables, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones plays nice with a wide variety of devices. Just plug and play - no special amplification needed to enjoy the planar goodness.
Stealth Magnet Design
Traditional planar magnetic headphones often use rectangular magnets, which can create unwanted reflections and diffraction of sound waves. These reflections interfere with the direct sound from the diaphragm, causing distortions and affecting the overall clarity. HIFIMAN’s Stealth Magnets address this issue with their unique shape. By reducing these unwanted reflections, Stealth Magnets allow the sound waves from the diaphragm to reach your ears with greater purity, resulting in a more accurate and detailed soundstage.
This technology is particularly beneficial in a closed-back design, where sound reflections within the earcups can be more pronounced. User reviews often highlight the clarity and detail of the SUNDARA Closed-Back, which can be attributed in part to the Stealth Magnet design.
NEO “supernano” Diaphragm (NsD)
The diaphragm is the heart of any headphone, responsible for converting electrical signals into sound waves. HIFIMAN’s NEO “supernano” Diaphragm (NsD) is a marvel of engineering, boasting exceptional thinness and low mass. This translates to quicker response times and improved detail retrieval compared to traditional diaphragms.
The NsD’s ability to accurately reproduce subtle nuances in music contributes to the SUNDARA Closed-Back’s impressive sound quality. User reviews often praise the headphones’ ability to deliver a lush, full-range sonic experience, capturing both the delicate highs and the powerful lows with accuracy.
Elegant Beechwood Ear Cups
The use of beechwood in the ear cups is not merely an aesthetic choice. Wood is a natural material with excellent acoustic properties, helping to dampen unwanted vibrations and resonances that can color the sound. The hand-assembled wood grain ear cups add a touch of elegance while contributing to the headphones’ sonic performance.
While some users have pointed out potential durability concerns with wood, others appreciate the unique aesthetic and the warm, natural sound it imparts.
Comfortable Headband
Comfort is crucial for extended listening sessions. The SUNDARA Closed-Back features a lightweight headband with a classic ergonomic design. The black matte finish adds a touch of sophistication. While user reviews generally indicate good comfort levels, some have noted that the clamping force can be a bit tight initially.
Detachable Cable with 3.5mm and 6.35mm Connections
The inclusion of a detachable cable with both 3.5mm and 6.35mm connections provides flexibility and compatibility with various audio sources. This is a practical feature that allows you to use the headphones with a wide range of devices, from smartphones and laptops to dedicated headphone amplifiers and audio interfaces.
The detachable cable also adds to the longevity of the headphones. If the cable gets damaged, it can be easily replaced without needing to replace the entire headphone.
Value:
With its planar magnetic drivers and high-end performance, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones punches far above typical headphones at this price point. For shoppers seeking top-tier sound on a budget, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones represents an incredible value.
Conclusion
The HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back headphones offer a compelling option for those seeking a closed-back planar magnetic experience. The combination of innovative technologies, such as Stealth Magnets and the NEO “supernano” Diaphragm, results in impressive sound quality with clarity, detail, and a wide soundstage. The comfortable design and versatile connectivity options further enhance the appeal of these headphones. While some users have noted minor concerns about clamping force and the durability of the wood ear cups, the overall feedback is overwhelmingly positive, making the SUNDARA Closed-Back a worthy contender in the world of high-fidelity audio.