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HiFiMAN Arya Unveiled 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.

Score breakdown

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

HiFiMAN Arya Unveiled
Sound9.0
Value7.5
HiFiMAN HE 1000se
Sound9.5
Value6.5

Specifications

Specification comparison of HiFiMAN Arya Unveiled vs HiFiMAN HE 1000se
SpecHiFiMAN Arya UnveiledHiFiMAN HE 1000se
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$1199$1699
HearWiki score84 / 100 · Great88 / 100 · Outstanding
Released20242018
Audio
Driverplanarplanar
Drivers per side2-
Frequency response8Hz-65kHz8Hz-65kHz
Sound signature-Bright neutral
Impedance27 Ω35 Ω
Sensitivity94 dB/mW96 dB/mW
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNo-
Features
Active noise cancellingNo-
Design
Weight413 g440 g
Detachable cableYes-
Balanced connectionYesYes

What reviewers said

HiFiMAN Arya Unveiled

The HiFiMAN Arya Unveiled is an open-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers exceptional detail and balanced, natural tonality across the spectrum. Its grill-less design reduces unwanted sound reflections, while its relatively low impedance and high sensitivity make it easier to drive than many peers, though the exposed driver requires careful handling. Overall, it offers strong technical performance and engaging vocals, making it a compelling choice for audiophiles seeking high-end sound.

  • Pro:Excellent detail retrieval and tonal accuracy
  • Pro:Comfortable fit for extended listening sessions
  • Pro:Easy to drive for a high-end planar
  • Con:Exposed driver design is vulnerable to damage
  • Con:Limited connectivity options out of the box
  • Con:Ear-cup material may feel less premium

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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