All > HIFIMAN SUNDARA
HIFIMAN SUNDARA
Retail Price
$399.00
Lowest Price
$299.00
Release Date
2018
The 2020 HiFiMan Sundara are renowned for their neutral sound. They are an open-back, planar magnetic headphones. However, they may retain more heat compared to the 2018 model but offer enhanced comfort thanks to the newly developed ear cup padding. The music produced by these headphones is well-balanced and has a large soundstage. They are best used in calm settings like the house or studio because they are primarily made for audiophiles. They are inappropriate for public areas because of their open-back design, which does not provide separation from ambient sound and may let audio leak.
Purchase Links
Overview
- Summary
- Overview - Breathability
- Overview - Neutral Sound
- Overview - Office
- Overview - Sports - Fitness
- Overview - Travel
- Overview - Wired Gaming
- Overview - Sound Quality - Performance
- Overview - Worth
- Recommendation - Value - Performance
- Positive
- Negative
Summary - The 2020 HiFiMan Sundara are renowned for their neutral sound. They are an open-back, planar magnetic headphones. However, they may retain more heat compared to the 2018 model but offer enhanced comfort thanks to the newly developed ear cup padding. The music produced by these headphones is well-balanced and has a large soundstage. They are best used in calm settings like the house or studio because they are primarily made for audiophiles. They are inappropriate for public areas because of their open-back design, which does not provide separation from ambient sound and may let audio leak.
Overview - Breathability - Compared to the HiFiMan Sundara 2018, the HiFiMan Sundara 2020 headphones are less breathable, trapping more heat against the ears. This might be because the ear cup cushioning is angled differently and fits more snugly. It is advised to take pauses during extended listening sessions as prolonged usage of these headphones may increase sweating. The average variation in temperature is 7.9 °C.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Overview - Neutral Sound - The 2020 HiFiMan Sundara has a well-balanced profile and excellent neutral sound. They have an open-back design that reduces thud and vibration yet offers a large, open soundstage for a rich, immersive audio experience. There is no longer a need for frequent readjustments because of the steady sound these headphones produce.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Overview - Office - It's not advised to use the HiFiMan Sundara 2020 at the office. Although they have a wired design and are well-built and comfy, they do not offer any noise isolation and leak a lot of audio. They are therefore inappropriate for preventing interruptions or preserving privacy in a work setting.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Overview - Sports - Fitness - Sports and fitness activities are not recommended for use with the HiFiMan Sundara 2020. Despite fitting comfortably, they trap heat and could increase sweating. They are unstable and might come off while exercising. They are also large and do not have a water resistance IP certification. It's crucial to remember that it hasn't been tested for water resistance.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Overview - Travel - It is not advised to use the HiFiMan Sundara 2020 for commuting or traveling. Their open-back design, while providing a comfortable fit, does not effectively block out background noise, such as that from airline and bus engines. They don't come with a case or pouch to preserve them, and their large size makes them difficult to transport.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Overview - Wired Gaming - On a PC, Xbox, or PlayStation, the HiFiMan Sundara 2020 are compatible for wired gaming. They only output audio though because they don't have a microphone. Although they have a comfortable fit, they could trap heat against the ears, requiring pauses every so often during prolonged gaming sessions.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Overview - Sound Quality - Performance - The HiFiMan Sundara offers surgical accuracy, clear imaging, and crisp sound with exceptional instrument separation. With its spacious soundstage, clear bass response, and tonal qualities, it provides excellent value. Compared to the earlier version, the vocals now have more depth and soulfulness. It has subbass extension, a quick, detailed bass, and a powerful smack, all while maintaining neutrality and being pleasurable. The treble is detailed without being sibilant, and the mids are slightly distant but smooth. It has a respectable soundstage and good imagery.
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
John Valour
06/23/2021
DMS
01/16/2022
SirMotherfuckerHenry
05/15/2020
Overview - Worth - Both objectively and subjectively, the HiFiMan Sundara is a great headphone. It offers remarkable technical performance despite possible unit variance. It is a wise purchase, especially if you want immersive sound. Amplification is important, but only a few special amps can really display and compliment it.
DMS
01/16/2022
Recommendation - Value - Performance - The HiFiMan Sundara is a top pick for the best headphones for the money. It performs better than its rivals and has better bass dynamics and mid-range responsiveness. Even while it's not perfect for everybody, it is still highly recommended for purchases around $350. Overall, it's a fantastic headset that deserves consideration.
Sources
Tags
- Summary
- Overview - Breathability
- Overview - Neutral Sound
- Overview - Office
- Overview - Sports - Fitness
- Overview - Travel
- Overview - Wired Gaming
- Overview - Sound Quality - Performance
- Overview - Worth
- Recommendation - Value - Performance
Sources
- RTINGS.com
- Headphones.com
- YouTube
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
John Valour
06/23/2021
DMS
01/16/2022
SirMotherfuckerHenry
05/15/2020
DMS
01/16/2022
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
See All Sources
Pros & Cons
- Pros - Reasons to Buy
- Cons - Reasons Not to Buy
- Positive
- Negative
Pros - Reasons to Buy - The headphones give strong technical performance while displaying remarkable tonal balance.
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
Cons - Reasons Not to Buy - The headset lacks a cap swivel and might use a better cable and construction.
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
See All Sources
Build & Design
- Build
- Build - Comfort - Weight
- Build - Cups - Dimensions
- Build - Pads - Material - Shape - Comfort
- Build - Portability
- Build - Stability
- Design
- Design - Strap
- Design - Weight
- Positive
- Negative
Build - With the exception of a small change in the angle of the ear cup padding, these headphones have a commendable build quality. They are similar to the HiFiMan Sundara 2018. A sturdy feeling is provided by the metal yokes, ear cups, and hinges. The padding blends faux leather and textile materials, and the cable is satisfactory. The tight headband, however, appears to represent a possible weakness in the general design. Although they don't feel as sturdy or expensive as headphones like the Sennheiser HD 800 S, this is typical of audiophile versions. Planar magnetic driver technology, which makes use of a flat diaphragm that is magnetically affected, is used in the HiFiMan Sundara. In comparison to its predecessor, the new version sounds a little bit more luscious and moisturized.
Build - Comfort - Weight - With its soft pads and suitable clamp strength, the Sundara provides a pleasant fit. It feels more closed-back than the Sennheiser 560S and Focal Clear, which could lead to less airflow and possible heat buildup over prolonged sessions. These headphones feel light on the head despite having a clamping force of 1.6 lbs and weighing 0.87 lbs. The redesigned pads, with a focus on the shape and angle, contribute to increased comfort. The adjustable sides take care of any problems, therefore the absence of a swiveling cup is no longer a serious concern. Overall, they have minimal pressure points, are ideal for longer usage, and efficiently dissipate heat.
Build - Cups - Dimensions - The lack of swiveling cups in the headphones can cause some ear irritation. Similar to other headphones in their class, they weigh 390 grams. The cup is circular in shape, with 59 mm inner diameter and 18 mm inside depth. The supplied cord has a right-angle connector and a decent insulator, and it is brief. Unfortunately, the absence of a swivel remains a downside, thus, there's an anticipation for comfort to improve.
Build - Pads - Material - Shape - Comfort - The new pads share characteristics with the Sundara, including a material preference. In comparison to the stock pads, these pads have a little bigger hole and a more oblong shape at the bottom, which improves ear compliance. It's impressive that the materials utilized are of the same caliber as those in Hifiman's $6,000 headset. Although it's not a big deal, it would be better if the pads' inner diameter were bigger because they occasionally seem a little small.
Build - Portability - These heavy headphones were not intended for use outside or for frequent portability. Their ear cups don't swivel to lay flat, unlike the HiFiMan HE-400i, and they take up a lot of room in a backpack or large luggage. Additionally, they don't come with a case or pouch for protection. The headphones measure 8.3", 5.8", and 4.6 inches in length, breadth, and height.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Build - Stability - Although these headphones are reasonably stable for casual listening sessions, they are not recommended for use in sports because they have a tendency to shift around during fast movements.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Design - It boasts a robust, substantial design with an industrial and stylish aesthetic.
Design - Strap - The clamp force provided by the suspension strap is respectable but not extreme. Compared to headphones like the HD6XX, HD650, or HD58X, it is lighter.
DMS
01/16/2022
Design - Weight - The Sundara weighs 372 grams, although despite its primarily metal construction, it feels light when worn.
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
Sources
Tags
- Build
- Build - Comfort - Weight
- Build - Cups - Dimensions
- Build - Pads - Material - Shape - Comfort
- Build - Portability
- Build - Stability
- Design
- Design - Strap
- Design - Weight
Sources
- RTINGS.com
- Headphones.com
- YouTube
- AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
DMS
01/16/2022
DMS
01/16/2022
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
DMS
01/16/2022
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
DMS
01/16/2022
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
See All Sources
Connectivity
- Connectivity - Bluetooth
- Connectivity - Cable
- Connectivity - Wired
- Positive
- Negative
Connectivity - Bluetooth - It lacks Bluetooth connectivity.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Connectivity - Cable - The cable has a tendency to curl up, and have intermittent connectivity problems. Although it raises the price of the already $350 headphones, replacing it with a $20 cable can fix the issue.
DMS
01/16/2022
Connectivity - Wired - The HiFiMan Sundara 2020 headphones are incompatible with wireless gaming and are solely wired. They come with a 1/8" to 1/4" TRS converter and a TRS cable with connectors for each ear cup. They can only receive audio, though, and don't have an in-line microphone.
Sources
Tags
- Connectivity - Bluetooth
- Connectivity - Cable
- Connectivity - Wired
Sources
- RTINGS.com
- YouTube
See All Sources
Features & Sound Quality
- App
- Bass - Accuracy
- Battery
- Clarity
- Controls
- Distortion
- Efficiency
- Equalizer
- Frequency Response Consistency
- Group Delay
- Imaging
- Impedance
- Microphone
- Mids - Accuracy
- Preference Curve
- Recording
- Soundstage
- Sound Detail
- Sound Profile
- Tonality - Balance
- Treble - Accuracy
- Treble Response
- Vocals
- Positive
- Negative
App - There’s lack of compatibility with apps.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Bass - Accuracy - The bass performance of the Sundara is outstanding. The Sundara extends deeper, and provides a weighty and enveloping sub-bass experience, similar to the HD 560S, despite the frequency graph suggesting less sub-bass compared to the Focal Clear. The texture of the bass is rich, allowing for better differentiation of simultaneous low-end elements. Particularly well-rendered, and surpassing typical speakers are the kick drum's sustain and decay. Although the low-bass and mid-bass regions are slightly underemphasized, it still exhibits good bass accuracy overall, which could affect the thump, rumble, body, and punch of some genres. The high bass's warmth and depth are maintained and well-balanced. Low-frequency extension: 54.17 Hz, standard error: 3.15 dB, low-bass: -6.21 dB, mid-bass: -2.07 dB, and high-bass: 0.55 dB.
Battery - Because they are passive, they don't need batteries to work.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Clarity - Particularly in vocals, the Hifiman Sundara's clarity is outstanding. The Sundara maintains a neutral and balanced presentation without any unwanted emphasis in particular frequency areas, unlike some headphones that may sound harsh or too bright.
DMS
01/16/2022
Controls - It lacks functions that allow control over some tasks without having to interact with the audio device, like volume control, music playback control, and phone call capabilities.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Distortion - With the exception of a little anomaly in the 6–7 kHz band, distortion rarely surprises.
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
Efficiency - The efficiency of these headphones is slightly lower than average.
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2022
Equalizer - It offers excellent spatial impact, instrument separation, and deep bass response when equipped with EQ. They are a must when employing equalization.
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
Frequency Response Consistency - It provides excellent frequency response consistency, with only a small variance in treble delivery depending on fit and location. This change might not be noticeable to most listeners, and with the right adjustments, a consistent audio output can be anticipated with an average standard deviation of 0.3 dB.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Group Delay - The desired spatial effects are a result of the group delay's characteristic irregularity in the mid-frequencies.
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
Imaging - Excellent imagery makes it easier to find items in games like Warzone. It's not spectacular, but it's unquestionably better than average.
Impedance - Its impedance is a flat 40 ohms, which shows that for optimum performance, it needs more current than voltage.
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
Microphone - They are unsuitable for using to make phone calls since they lack an integrated microphone. They also lack a detachable boom microphone, an in-line remote with a microphone, or an integrated microphone in the ear cup or earbud.
Mids - Accuracy - It has excellent midrange tuning. Although there is a dip at about 2 kHz, it has minimal impact on the overall sound. Although the timbre may not be as natural as other headphones, its midrange gives excellent detail and speed. The treble is well-balanced with a tiny counterclockwise tilt, and the midrange is comparatively neutral. Without any harshness or grit, the headphones offer content with excellent detail and resolution. The range is flat and well-balanced, and the middle precision is astounding. Specifically, Low-Mid: 0.55 dB, Mid-Mid: 0.48 dB, High-Mid: -0.62 dB; Standard Error: 1.02 dB.
Preference Curve - The preference curve from high bass to lower treble was followed. It peaks above 5 kHz, however, exceed the target, and the upper bass droops. The soundstage is also slightly lacking at roughly 2 kHz, which is intriguing because it can be improved by making up for it.
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
Recording - It remains neutral and perform admirably with both recent and vintage recordings. With their outstanding performance, these headphones shine even more the better the recording quality.
DMS
01/16/2022
Soundstage - Its distinctive quality is its wide soundstage, which gives music a new perspective. The soundstage is larger and taller, enveloping listeners in the performance. The Sundara outperforms rivals like the LCD One and Sennheiser HD 6X series, even though there are headphones with even larger soundstages available. In terms of soundstage, its behind products like the DT 1990 Pro and Verum 1. The Sundara, however, stands out for its price-to-performance ratio and delivers a cozy yet roomy soundstage that improves vocal and instrument separation.
Sound Detail - It has excellent speed and degradation when retrieving details. It creates a rich, immersive sound experience that shows even the intricate details from both the vocalist and the surroundings.
DMS
01/16/2021
Sound Profile - The 2020 Sundara features a neutral sound profile with balanced frequencies, but because of its open-back construction, it could not have enough low-bass. It gives adaptability for different genres and content. However, it doesn't offer choices for EQ or preset sound customization.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Tonality - Balance - Its tone and linear frequency response are almost ideal. It outperforms earlier models in terms of both the HGQ and HPN compensations. Symbols and percussion instruments are enhanced by the tonal balance, making for a more pleasant listening experience.
Treble - Accuracy - When compared to other headphones, the upper end of the Sundara delivers impressive extension. Rather than measurements, it might be the result of planar magnetic drivers. The treble tuning may cause controversy because it is sharp for multitasking and demands attention. Compared to the Odyssey LCD One, the air quality above 11 kHz is not as strongly highlighted. The treble has excellent accuracy and is loud but not piercing. While the mid-treble is well-balanced, the low-treble is slightly veiled. Specifically, Low-Treble: -1.16 dB, High-Treble: -5.18 dB, Mid-Treble: 0.17 dB, Standard Error: 2.34 dB.
Treble Response - Typically, treble response modifications have an impact on sound staging. Treble over 7 kHz can be increased or decreased to affect openness and airiness as well as sound staging.
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
Vocals - The voice of the previous Sundara was crisp and clear, but it lacked warmth. Some people might prefer a slightly warmer vocal portrayal, even if it's not a technological problem. The overall tonality was neutral, which some listeners might find less stimulating.
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
Sources
Tags
- App
- Bass - Accuracy
- Battery
- Clarity
- Controls
- Distortion
- Efficiency
- Equalizer
- Frequency Response Consistency
- Group Delay
- Imaging
- Impedance
- Microphone
- Mids - Accuracy
- Preference Curve
- Recording
- Soundstage
- Sound Detail
- Sound Profile
- Tonality - Balance
- Treble - Accuracy
- Treble Response
- Vocals
Sources
- RTINGS.com
- Headphones.com
- YouTube
- AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
DMS
01/16/2022
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2022
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
DMS
01/16/2022
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
DMS
01/16/2022
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
DMS
01/16/2022
DMS
01/16/2021
DMS
01/16/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
Jake Cheriff - Headphones.com
06/28/2021
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
DMS
01/16/2022
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
Josh Valour
06/23/2021
See All Sources
Performance
- Imaging
- Leakage
- Noise Isolation
- Passive Soundstage
- Peaks & Dips
- Performance - Sound Quality - Driver - Comfort
- Weighted Harmonic Distortion
- Positive
- Negative
Imaging - The 2020 HiFiMan Sundara performs excellently in terms of imagery. Tight bass and clear treble are produced as a result of the group delay being primarily below the audibility threshold. Since the left and right drivers are properly matched, stereo things like voices and footsteps can be placed exactly where they should be in the scene.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Leakage - As is usual for open-back headphones, these headphones have poor leakage performance. They frequently leak a sizable amount of audio, which makes it easy for people nearby to hear the music, especially when it is being played loudly in places like an office.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Noise Isolation - Like most open-back headphones, these ones perform poorly in terms of noise isolation. They do not eliminate background noise, making it possible to detect sounds like bus rumbles or office chatter.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Passive Soundstage - The soundstage of the HiFiMan Sundara 2020 is large and open. Similar to the HiFiMan Sundara 2018, the sound may, however, appear to be emanating from inside the mind rather than from the room's speakers. Compared to closed-back headphones, the open-back design increases the openness of the soundstage.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Peaks & Dips - The performance of the HiFiMan Sundara 2020 shows brief peaks and valleys. The low-bass has a small peak that adds thump and rumbling. There is some boominess from another high-bass peak. Vocals and lead instruments are emphasized by a peak in the mid-mid range, while those elements are slightly diminished by a shallow drop in the high-mid to low-treble range. Uneven mid-treble causes sibilant sounds to have different degrees of piercing and dullness. Peaks are 1.26 dB, and dips are 0.64 dB.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Performance - Sound Quality - Driver - Comfort - The detail and resolution are great. The driver was functioning properly, and it’s very comfortable.
take_a_step_forward
05/15/2020
Weighted Harmonic Distortion - The weighted harmonic distortion performance of the headphones is good. There is some distortion at typical listening volumes, especially when using the right driver. With real-life content, it is not, however, readily apparent. Overall, the distortion is within acceptable bounds and the audio rendition is clear and unadulterated.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Sources
Tags
- Imaging
- Leakage
- Noise Isolation
- Passive Soundstage
- Peaks & Dips
- Performance - Sound Quality - Driver - Comfort
- Weighted Harmonic Distortion
Sources
- RTINGS.com
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
take_a_step_forward
05/15/2020
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
See All Sources
Accessories & Inclusions/Packaging
- Accessories - Case
- Positive
- Negative
Accessories - Case - There was no case given or incorporated.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Sources
Tags
- Accessories - Case
Sources
- RTINGS.com
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
See All Sources
Comparison
- Comparison vs. HIFIMAN SUNDARA 2018 - Design
- Comparison vs. AKG K371 - Sound Quality
- Comparison vs. HIFIMAN HE-6, HIFIMAN Ananda - Price - Bass - Distortion - Driver
- Comparison vs. Kef LS50, Sony WH-1000XM3, WF-1000, HyperX Cloud 2, Samsung Galaxy Buds - Sound Quality - Noise Cancellation - Soundstage - Highs - Lows - Comfort - Durability - Build Quality - Cable
- Positive
- Negative
Comparison vs. HIFIMAN SUNDARA 2018 - Design - The 2020 HiFiMan Sundara features a design reminiscent of the previous edition, the HiFiMan Sundara 2018. They have a stylish all-black appearance and big, rounded ear cups. The padding and headband are composed of faux leather, and the ear cups are embellished with a screen-like pattern.
Jake Thauvette, Theresa Ketterling, and John Peroramas - RTINGS.com
05/28/2021
Comparison vs. AKG K371 - Sound Quality - The AKG K371 and the Sundara had a pronounced difference. Although initially lacking sub-bass, the Sundara produced a sound that was more open and spacious. But the transformation was striking after adding a notch filter and boosting the highs. Particularly in string instruments, the sub-bass became more noticeable, and the tonality changed to one that was warmer and had more detail. The whole thing was quite enjoyable.
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
Comparison vs. HIFIMAN HE-6, HIFIMAN Ananda - Price - Bass - Distortion - Driver - There were mixed results with Hifiman headphones, with the HE-6 working admirably and the Ananda falling short. But while being less expensive, the Sundara impresses with its skillful execution. Although the bass is missing, it nonetheless corresponds to the other aspects. Additionally, distortion is better managed than it was with the Ananda, perhaps as a result of the smaller driver's optimization.
amirm - AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
04/16/2021
Comparison vs. Kef LS50, Sony WH-1000XM3, WF-1000, HyperX Cloud 2, Samsung Galaxy Buds - Sound Quality - Noise Cancellation - Soundstage - Highs - Lows - Comfort - Durability - Build Quality - Cable - It was possible to replicate the Kef LS50s headphone experience with the HiFiMan Sundaras. The Sundaras distinguished themselves from other headphones with their impressive soundstage, crisp highs, and pleasant lows, including the Sony WH-1000XM3, WF-1000, HyperX Cloud 2, and Samsung Galaxy Buds. Additionally, they are quite cozy. There haven't yet been any quality control difficulties, despite the fact that they are inferior to high-end headphones. The provided cable is the only drawback. The Sundaras are great for gaming, especially with a modest bass boost. They perform better in terms of soundstage and quality than common gaming headsets like the HyperX Cloud 2.
JelleJ_
05/14/2020
Sources
Tags
- Comparison vs. HIFIMAN SUNDARA 2018 - Design
- Comparison vs. AKG K371 - Sound Quality
- Comparison vs. HIFIMAN HE-6, HIFIMAN Ananda - Price - Bass - Distortion - Driver
- Comparison vs. Kef LS50, Sony WH-1000XM3, WF-1000, HyperX Cloud 2, Samsung Galaxy Buds - Sound Quality - Noise Cancellation - Soundstage - Highs - Lows - Comfort - Durability - Build Quality - Cable
Sources
- RTINGS.com
- AUDIO SCIENCE REVIEW
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Price & Availability
- Price - Release - Value
- Value - Performance
- Value - Price - Revisions
- Positive
- Negative
Price - Release - Value - Even at its initial $500 price, the HiFiMan Sundara was regarded as an excellent value. The Sundara is now the best option among open-back headphones and comes highly recommended at its present pricing. Its performance makes it a standout sub-$500 alternative, especially with a low shelf at 100Hz.
Value - Performance - At its pricing point, it provides impressive detail, instrument separation, and structural definition. Its performance outperforms headphones in a comparable price range and even more expensive planar magnetic headphones. The Sundara surpasses expectations for its driver installation, delivering excellent slam and punch.
Value - Price - Revisions - Sandara, Ananda, and Aria, the $350 benchmark headphones, have just undergone covert updates. Small changes to the manufacturing process are made by manufacturers covertly in response to consumer input or for cost and convenience.
The HEADPHONE Show
02/11/2020
Sources
Tags
- Price - Release - Value
- Value - Performance
- Value - Price - Revisions
Sources
- Headphones.com
- YouTube
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Miscellaneous
- Customer Service - Cable
- Issue - Cable
- Issue - Durability
- Solution - Build Quality - Cable
- Solution - Cable - Price - Durability
- Positive
- Negative
Customer Service - Cable - The contact within the headphones became detached due to the cable issue, however, their customer service swiftly replaced it. Using a cable extension to give the new pair more attention, there have been no problems so far with great sound.
SleepDisorrder
10/20/2021
Issue - Cable - The cable for the HiFiMan Sundara is poorly constructed, with complaints that it is rigid and prone to breaking. Numerous consumers have complained about the cable quality. The cable's bad design is further exacerbated by the white substance that surrounds the edges, which appears to be glue. Owners still laud the Sundara headphones' amazing performance despite the cable problems.
Issue - Durability - Because of its poor build quality and propensity for breaking, the HiFiMan headphones have led some customers to second-guess their purchase and look at other models. HiFiMan's quality assurance procedures are frequently criticized. The sound quality of the headphones is highly regarded, despite these problems.
Spaced-Station
10/20/2021
Solution - Build Quality - Cable - Hifiman Sundaras have a better build quality than the 560V2s, which is surprising. However, the cable is awful and has a lot of cable noise. A solution can be swapping it out for a Periapt Cable.
Ionic-Nova
08/27/2020
Solution - Cable - Price - Durability - Using a Periapt cable is great with the Sundara. Also, the fabric is reasonably priced and has a wonderful feel and appearance. The cable performs well with the LCD2 as well.
DirtyDanTX
05/15/2020
Sources
Tags
- Customer Service - Cable
- Issue - Cable
- Issue - Durability
- Solution - Build Quality - Cable
- Solution - Cable - Price - Durability
Sources
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