Over-Ear
Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2
84Great
$900
Full review dataDan Clark Audio Aeon 2 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.
Over-Ear
HiFiMAN Arya
88Outstanding
$769
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2
Sound8.5
Value7.5
HiFiMAN Arya
Sound9.5
Value8.0
Specifications
| Spec | Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2 | HiFiMAN Arya |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $900 | $769 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2019 | 2021 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | planar | Planar |
| Driver size | 62 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz | 8Hz-65kHz |
| Sound signature | - | Bright neutral |
| Impedance | 13 Ω | 35 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 90 dB/mW | 90 dB/mW |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 327 g | 430 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| USB-C | No | No |
| Balanced connection | Yes | Yes |
What reviewers said
Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2
This planar over-ear headphone builds on its predecessor with a more refined, natural sound that balances detail, dynamics, and easy listening. Its lightweight, comfortable design and portable-friendly build make it a versatile all-rounder for both open and closed variants, delivering a controlled low end and a neutral-leaning signature that rewards quality amplification. While priced at a premium, it offers strong performance and value for those seeking a dependable closed-back or open-back planar option.
- Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for extended sessions
- Pro:Natural, easy-to-listen sound with good detail
- Pro:Controlled, punchy bass response
- Con:Requires ample amplification to perform at its best
- Con:Premium price point may not suit all budgets
- Con:Neutral tuning may lack extra warmth for some listeners
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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