HiFiMAN Edition Xs

The reviewer finds the HiFiMAN Edition XS to be a highly competitive planar magnetic headphone at its $500 price point, offering a mostly neutral sound signature with a slight V-shape and improved comfort and build over older HiFiMAN designs. While noting a minor upper treble boost and plasticky build, the reviewer praises its clever design that allows for consistent bass response and considers it a strong value compared to more expensive models like the Ananda.

The reviewer finds the HiFiMAN Edition XS to be an excellent value at $500, preferring its wider soundstage and more relaxed, comfortable tuning over the pricier Ananda. He notes the XS has a lighter clamp and a more comfortable headband, making it easier to wear for long periods. Overall, he is impressed and considers selling his Anandas in favor of the XS.

The reviewer highly recommends the HiFiMAN Edition XS as the best headphone under $500, praising its combination of detail, clarity, and impactful bass, which he compares to a Sundara with better low-end and soundstage. He finds it extremely comfortable and light, and believes it delivers performance comparable to much more expensive headphones, though he notes a slightly cool mid-range and minor build quality quibbles.

The reviewer praises the HiFiMAN Edition XS as an exceptional value at $500, highlighting its excellent technical performance, detailed sound, and good bass extension. While noting some minor comfort quirks and a slight tuning issue with male vocals, he concludes it's a remarkable headphone that scales well with better source gear and is a strong entry point into high-end audiophile sound.

The reviewer finds the HiFiMAN Edition XS to be an extremely comfortable and open-sounding planar magnetic headphone that delivers excellent detail, air, and a neutral-warm tonality. It outperforms the Sennheiser HD 6XX and Grado Hemp in clarity and bass control, though it falls short of the much more expensive original HE1000. The reviewer highly recommends it for those in the $500 price range.

The reviewer finds the HiFiMAN Edition XS to be a compelling middle-ground option in the headphone market, offering a taste of high-end sound at a relatively accessible price. He praises its lightweight build, comfortable large earcups, and impressive planar magnetic performance, though he notes some concerns about long-term durability and fit for smaller heads. Overall, he seems quite positive about it as a value proposition.