Our Take
The HE1000 V2 delivers incredible detail, accuracy, soundstage, and imaging in a flagship level, top of the line package. |
Upgrade your cable with the Eletech Inferno with a 3.5mm TRS connection for HIFIMAN headphones.
The HE1000 V2 Planar Magnetic Open-Back Headphones from Hifiman have been updated from their previous model HE1000 headphones and offer redesigned earpads that are thick with an asymmetrical shape, a stronger cable, and polyester earpad surfaces instead of velour material to increase sound transparency for use in the home, studio, with portable devices, and more.
Featuring diaphragms so thin they are measured in nanometer thickness, the result is a pair of headphones that have a frequency response of 8 Hz to 65 kHz and an impedance of 35 Ohms. Their updated headband design will accommodate a wider range of head sizes, and their overall weight at 14.8 oz has been reduced from the original HE1000's 16.9 oz. Their planar driver is the cornerstone of their remarkable sound.
The headphones have an updated earcup design that is trimmed down in size for a slimmer, sleeker look; they are now 11mm in thickness, a significant reduction in size from the original model's 14mm measurement. The earpads have become thicker with an asymmetrical shape that follows the form of the earcups. They are supplied with a cable that is made stronger with the improved materials of crystalline copper and crystalline silver wire, and built with a wide frequency range, low signal loss, and enhanced emphasis on their low-end for quality audio reproduction. A detachable 1/4" cable, 1/8" cable, and a 4-pin XLR cable are also included.
Was looking for an open back with an emphasis on the high end, but with good bass extension and smooth mids. The HE1000 V2 is exactly what I was looking for. There is plenty of bass extension, the mids are not shouty, honky or harsh (could be a little more forward for those that are looking for that), and the high end is very airy, open and detailed. There are however some tracks that have sibilance with hi-hats, cymbals and "S" sounds in vocals. There is rarely even a little sibilance with snare hits. I gave it 4/5 stars because for the price, the build quality could be a little more solid and I was quite disappointed with the stock cables.
Other than the cans, Bloom Audio is as good as it gets in terms of customer service. You won't regret buying from them!