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Dan Clark Audio Noire Xo vs HiFiMAN HE 1000 Stealth: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the HiFiMAN HE 1000 Stealth comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 83. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: HiFiMAN HE 1000 Stealth - Outstanding overall at around $1399.

Score breakdown

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

HiFiMAN HE 1000 Stealth leads on 3 of 4 measures.

  • Dan Clark Audio Noire Xo
  • HiFiMAN HE 1000 Stealth
HearWiki score
80
83
Sound
8.9
9.3
Value
8.4
8.8
Price (USD)
$1,300
$1,400

Generation & platform

The scores rank quality. This is the other question: is the newer one actually newer technology, or the same platform in a new shell?

Same generation

The Dan Clark Audio Noire Xo is 2 years newer, but it is the same generation of hardware: nothing in the radio, the codecs or the noise cancelling separates them. Nothing separates them on convenience features either, so the choice comes down to tuning and price.

  • Noire Xo20252 yr newer
  • HE 1000 Stealth2023

Specifications

Noire XoHE 1000 Stealth
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$1,300
$1,400
HearWiki score
80
83
Released
2025
2023
Availability
Sold new
Still sold new
Driver
62 mm planar magnetic
planar magnetic
Driver type
planar
planar
Driver size
62 mm
-
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
-
8 Hz - 65 kHz
Sound signature
-
neutral
Impedance
13 Ω
32 Ω
Sensitivity
90 dB/mW
93 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
buttons
-
Voice assistant
No
-
Weight
1542 g
458 g
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
No
Connector
4.4 mm balanced
6.35 mm
Balanced connection
Yes
Yes
Model code
XNXO
-

What reviewers said

Dan Clark Audio Noire Xo

The Dan Clark Audio Noire Xo is a premium open-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers a balanced, natural sound with impressive detail and a wide, layered soundstage. Its comfortable design and 13-ohm impedance make it easy to drive, though it truly shines with a quality amplifier. While it lacks ANC and wireless features, its wired, balanced 4.4mm connection caters to audiophiles seeking a high-fidelity, reference-style listening experience. Its hefty 1542g weight and $1299 price point are notable considerations for potential buyers.

  • Pro:Excellent planar magnetic clarity and detail
  • Pro:Wide, layered soundstage with precise imaging
  • Pro:Comfortable fit suitable for long sessions
  • Con:Heavy weight may cause fatigue over extended use
  • Con:No active noise cancellation or wireless options
  • Con:Price is high, especially without upgraded accessories

HiFiMAN HE 1000 Stealth

The HiFiMAN HE 1000 Stealth is a wired, open-back planar magnetic flagship that delivers a neutral, highly detailed sound signature. It's easier to drive than typical planars thanks to its 32-ohm impedance and 93 dB sensitivity, yet still rewards quality amplification. With its relatively lightweight build for a large headphone and detachable balanced cable, it offers strong technical performance and comfort, though its size and price may not suit everyone.

  • Pro:Refined, neutral sound with excellent detail
  • Pro:Easier to drive than most planar headphones
  • Pro:Comfortable for its large over-ear design
  • Con:Still relatively heavy at 458 grams
  • Con:Large fit may be awkward for smaller heads
  • Con:Treble can sound uneven on bright recordings

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

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