Audio-Technica Narukami vs HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 82. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled - Outstanding overall at around $2299.

Over-Ear

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled leads on 4 of 4 measures.

Audio-Technica Narukami
HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled

HearWiki score

Sound

6.5

9.5

Value

1.0

6.8

Price (USD)

$4,500

$2,300

Specifications

NarukamiHE 1000 Unveiled

Type: Over-Ear; Over-Ear
Price (USD): $4,500; $2,300
HearWiki score: 50; 82
Released: 2024; 2024
Availability: Discontinued; Still sold new
Driver: 53 mm dynamic; planar magnetic
Driver type: dynamic; planar
Driver size: 53 mm; -
Drivers per side: -; 1
Frequency response: 5 Hz - 45 kHz; 8 Hz - 65 kHz
Impedance: 48 Ω; 28 Ω
Sensitivity: 102 dB/mW; -
Active noise cancelling: -; No
Weight: 390 g; 450 g
Detachable cable: Yes; Yes
Balanced connection: -; Yes
Model code: ATH-AWKG; -

Specification comparison of Audio-Technica Narukami vs HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled
Spec	Audio-Technica Narukami	HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled
Type	Over-Ear	Over-Ear
Price (USD)	$4,500	$2,300
HearWiki score	50 / 100 Weak	82 / 100 Outstanding
Released	2024	2024
Audio
Driver	53 mm dynamic	planar magnetic
Driver type	dynamic	planar
Driver size	53 mm	-
Drivers per side	-	1
Frequency response	5 Hz - 45 kHz	8 Hz - 65 kHz
Impedance	48 Ω	28 Ω
Sensitivity	102 dB/mW	-
Features
Active noise cancelling	-	No
Design
Weight	390 g	450 g
Detachable cable	Yes	Yes
Balanced connection	-	Yes
Model code	ATH-AWKG	-

What reviewers said

Audio-Technica Narukami

The Audio-Technica Narukami headphones are a premium, wired over-ear model built around a large 53 mm dynamic driver, offering a broad frequency response from 5 Hz to 45 kHz. They are part of an exclusive, high-end system that emphasizes craftsmanship and refined sound, appealing to audiophiles who prioritize luxury performance over budget. With a detachable cable and a 48-ohm impedance, they are designed for serious listening setups rather than everyday portability.

Pro:Exceptional build quality and premium craftsmanship
Pro:Wide frequency response for detailed high-frequency reproduction
Pro:Detachable cable for flexible connection options

Con:Very high price point limits accessibility
Con:Wired-only design requires a dedicated amplifier or source
Con:Impedance may need specific amp settings for optimal pairing

HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled

The HiFiMAN HE 1000 Unveiled is a premium open-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers an exceptionally wide and precise soundstage with rich, engaging vocals. It offers flagship-level resolution, dynamics, and a spacious presentation that pushes the boundaries of its price class, though its exposed cup design demands careful handling. With a lightweight 450g build and balanced connectivity, it's a high-end choice for audiophiles seeking top-tier wired performance without active noise cancellation.

Pro:Exceptional soundstage width and precision
Pro:Outstanding resolution and dynamic range
Pro:Engaging and detailed vocal presentation

Con:Exposed cups require careful handling
Con:No 4.4mm connector included in the box
Con:Premium price point may not suit all budgets

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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