Over-Ear
Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2
84Great
$900
Full review dataDan Clark Audio Aeon 2 vs HiFiMAN HE 1000se: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the HiFiMAN HE 1000se 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 HE 1000se - Outstanding overall at around $1699.
Over-Ear
HiFiMAN HE 1000se
88Outstanding
$1699
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 HE 1000se
Sound9.5
Value6.5
Specifications
| Spec | Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2 | HiFiMAN HE 1000se |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $900 | $1699 |
| HearWiki score | 84 / 100 · Great | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2019 | 2018 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | planar | planar |
| Driver size | 62 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 1 | - |
| Frequency response | 20Hz-20kHz | 8Hz-65kHz |
| Sound signature | - | Bright neutral |
| Impedance | 13 Ω | 35 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 90 dB/mW | 96 dB/mW |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 327 g | 440 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| USB-C | 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 HE 1000se
The HiFiMAN HE1000se is a high-end planar magnetic headphone that delivers exceptional detail retrieval and a spacious, airy soundstage. Its bright-neutral tuning offers strong bass and treble extension, though the prominent treble can become harsh with lower-quality recordings. While its 35-ohm impedance and 96 dB sensitivity make it moderately easy to drive, it still benefits from quality amplification to perform at its best.
- Pro:Outstanding resolution and micro-detail clarity
- Pro:Wide, airy soundstage with excellent instrument separation
- Pro:Strong extension at both frequency extremes
- Con:Bright, peaky treble can fatigue on poorly mastered tracks
- Con:Requires a decent amp despite moderate sensitivity
- Con:Midrange lacks warmth and body for some tastes
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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