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Beyerdynamic T1 3rd vs HiFiMAN Arya: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the HiFiMAN Arya comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: HiFiMAN Arya - Outstanding overall at around $769.

Score breakdown

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

Beyerdynamic T1 3rd
Sound9.0
Value6.0
HiFiMAN Arya
Sound9.5
Value8.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Beyerdynamic T1 3rd vs HiFiMAN Arya
SpecBeyerdynamic T1 3rdHiFiMAN Arya
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$905$769
HearWiki score84 / 100 · Great88 / 100 · Outstanding
Released20202021
Audio
DriverdynamicPlanar
Driver size40 mm-
Drivers per side11
Frequency response5Hz-50kHz8Hz-65kHz
Sound signature-Bright neutral
Impedance32 Ω35 Ω
Sensitivity100 dB/mW90 dB/mW
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNo-
Features
Active noise cancellingNo-
Design
Weight360 g430 g
Detachable cableYes-
USB-C-No
Balanced connectionYesYes

What reviewers said

Beyerdynamic T1 3rd

The Beyerdynamic T1 3rd Generation is a premium open-back headphone that blends a warm, bass-forward sound with clear mids and controlled highs. Its lower 32-ohm impedance makes it easy to drive from portable devices, while the comfortable build and detachable cable add everyday convenience. This model refines the earlier version's performance and usability, making it a strong contender for audiophiles seeking detail without requiring a dedicated amplifier.

  • Pro:Warm, engaging sound with rich bass and smooth treble
  • Pro:Easy to drive from phones, laptops, or low-power sources
  • Pro:Excellent comfort for long listening sessions
  • Con:High price may not suit budget-conscious buyers
  • Con:Open-back design leaks sound and offers no isolation
  • Con:Bass-forward tuning may not appeal to purists seeking neutrality

HiFiMAN Arya

The HiFiMAN Arya is a premium planar magnetic headphone known for its exceptionally fast, detailed, and airy sound. Its bright-neutral tuning delivers a highly resolving, spacious presentation with excellent technical performance, making it a strong choice for critical listening, though it requires a good amplifier to shine. With a comfortable open-back design and a relatively affordable price for its class, it balances high-end performance with accessibility.

  • Pro:Excellent detail retrieval and transparency
  • Pro:Wide, open soundstage with precise imaging
  • Pro:Fast and articulate planar driver response
  • Con:Bright treble can be fatiguing for sensitive ears
  • Con:Needs a powerful amp to reach full potential
  • Con:Open-back leaks sound and offers little isolation

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

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