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HiFiMAN Edition Xs vs HiFiMAN Edition Xv: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the HiFiMAN Edition Xv comes out ahead with a HearWiki score of 84. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: HiFiMAN Edition Xv - Outstanding overall at around $275.

Score breakdown

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

Neither pulls ahead overall - they trade wins across the measures.

  • HiFiMAN Edition Xs
  • HiFiMAN Edition Xv
HearWiki score
79
84
Sound
8.5
8.6
Value
9.3
9.2
Price (USD)
$270
$280

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 HiFiMAN Edition Xv is 3 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. For 3 years between them, that is a thin return - treat this as a restyle rather than a new platform.

  • Edition Xs2022
  • Edition Xv20253 yr newer

Specifications

Edition XsEdition Xv
Type
Over-Ear
Over-Ear
Price (USD)
$270
$280
HearWiki score
79
84
Released
2022
2025
Availability
Still sold new
Sold new
Driver
80 mm planar magnetic
80 mm planar magnetic
Driver type
planar
planar
Driver size
80 mm
80 mm
Drivers per side
1
1
Frequency response
8 Hz - 50 kHz
8 Hz - 50 kHz
Impedance
18 Ω
12 Ω
Sensitivity
-
92 dB/mW
Active noise cancelling
No
No
Controls
none
none
Weight
405 g
452 g
Foldable
No
-
Detachable cable
Yes
Yes
USB-C
No
-
Balanced connection
Yes
Yes

What reviewers said

HiFiMAN Edition Xs

The HiFiMAN Edition XS is an open-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers exceptional detail, speed, and a wide soundstage for its price. Its 80mm drivers offer deep, well-defined bass and crisp highs, though the forward treble and bright tuning may not suit all listeners. Built for stationary listening, it prioritizes audio performance over portability, with a comfortable but occasionally variable fit.

  • Pro:Excellent detail and transient speed
  • Pro:Wide, immersive soundstage
  • Pro:Deep and well-controlled bass for a planar
  • Con:Bright upper treble can cause fatigue
  • Con:Unusual imaging and forward upper mids
  • Con:Comfort varies due to headband/gimbal design

HiFiMAN Edition Xv

The HiFiMAN Edition Xv is an open-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers a warm, smooth, and easy-going sound signature with impressive treble extension and a lush bass response. Its 80mm drivers and low impedance make it easy to drive with affordable gear, though its stiff headband and slightly veiled midrange may not appeal to everyone. It's a solid choice for listeners seeking a relaxed, non-fatiguing planar experience at a budget-friendly price.

  • Pro:Warm, smooth tuning with excellent treble for an over-ear
  • Pro:Easy to drive with low impedance and high sensitivity
  • Pro:Spacious, immersive soundstage with good technical performance
  • Con:Stiff headband reduces long-term comfort
  • Con:Midrange can sound veiled or overly warm
  • Con:Accessories feel less premium than expected

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

Compare something else

Swap either side out, or start again from the picker.

New comparisonHiFiMAN Edition XsHiFiMAN Edition Xv