Over-Ear
STAX SR-009D
88Outstanding
$2640
Full review dataSTAX SR-009D vs Yamaha Yh-4000: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the STAX SR-009D comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: STAX SR-009D - Outstanding overall at around $2640.
Over-Ear
Yamaha Yh-4000
88Outstanding
$2500
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
STAX SR-009D
Sound9.5
Value5.5
Yamaha Yh-4000
Sound9.0
Value7.0
Specifications
| Spec | STAX SR-009D | Yamaha Yh-4000 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $2640 | $2500 |
| HearWiki score | 88 / 100 · Outstanding | 88 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2024 | 2026 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | push-pull electrostatic circular sound element | planar |
| Driver size | - | 50 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz-42kHz | 5Hz-70kHz |
| Impedance | 145000 Ω | 34 Ω |
| Sensitivity | - | 97 dB/mW |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | none | - |
| Multipoint pairing | No | - |
| Battery | ||
| Wireless charging | No | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| ANC type | none | none |
| Transparency mode | No | No |
| Companion app | No | No |
| Custom EQ | No | No |
| Wear detection | No | No |
| Controls | - | none |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 594 g | 320 g |
| Foldable | - | No |
| Detachable cable | - | Yes |
| USB-C | No | No |
| Balanced connection | - | Yes |
What reviewers said
STAX SR-009D
The STAX SR-009D is a premium electrostatic over-ear headphone that pushes the boundaries of high-fidelity audio with an exceptionally wide frequency response and transparent, detailed sound. Its open-back design and push-pull driver technology deliver a refined, airy presentation, but it demands a dedicated amplifier and a significant investment. This is a statement piece for audiophiles seeking the utmost in technical performance, not a casual listening device.
- Pro:Exceptional clarity and detail retrieval
- Pro:Very wide frequency range (5Hz-42kHz)
- Pro:Premium build quality with detachable cable
- Con:Requires specialized electrostatic amplifier
- Con:Very high price point
- Con:Open-back design leaks sound and offers no isolation
Yamaha Yh-4000
The Yamaha YH-4000 is a premium open-back planar headphone that prioritizes exceptional detail retrieval and a natural, airy soundstage. Its lightweight build and plush comfort make it easy to wear for long sessions, while the robust construction and balanced connection cater to discerning audiophiles. It's a high-end choice for those seeking a transparent, composed listening experience without digital extras.
- Pro:Outstanding detail and clarity across the frequency range
- Pro:Very lightweight and comfortable for extended listening
- Pro:Excellent transient response with low distortion
- Con:Very high price point limits accessibility
- Con:No noise isolation or ANC due to open-back design
- Con:Lacks built-in controls or app support
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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