HiFiMAN He-R10d

The reviewer finds the HiFiMan HE-R10d to be a well-built, easy-to-drive closed-back headphone with a fun, hard-hitting mid-bass and a forward midrange, though it has some treble sibilance and limited sub-bass extension. The unique wooden cup design is functional but looks odd, and the isolation is poor due to small gaps. Overall, it's a decent but not class-leading option at its price, with ergonomic improvements over the cheaper HE-R9.

The reviewer bought the current Hifiman HE-R10D and compared it to the original 2020 launch version, finding four key changes: impedance increased from 32 to 60 ohms, cable entry now supports both single and dual entry, headband and earpads are no longer real lambskin leather, and packaging/accessories are simplified with fewer cables and no Bluetooth receiver. He notes the sound is fun with thick mid-bass, forward vocals, and a wide soundstage for a closed-back, and considers it technically good for the price, comparable to $300-400 closed-backs, but criticizes Hifiman's lack of transparency about the changes.

The reviewer compares the HiFiMAN HE-R10P (planar) and HE-R10D (dynamic) closed-back headphones, finding both comfortable and well-built, but with distinct sound signatures. The planar version offers a wider soundstage, finer detail, and more open-back-like presentation, while the dynamic version is warmer, more intimate, and punchier in bass. The reviewer prefers the planar for its natural, spacious sound, despite the significant price difference.

The reviewer compares the HiFiMAN HE-R9 and HE-R10D, finding them similar in tuning and build basics but significantly different in sound quality. The R10D offers much better clarity, detail, and soundstage, while the R9 sounds muffled, boxy, and bass-heavy with poor imaging. The reviewer concludes the R10D is worth the higher price for its superior performance and build.

The reviewer finds the HiFiMan HE-R10D to be exceptionally comfortable and well-built, with a dynamic driver that delivers fast, detailed, and engaging sound, particularly for rock music. While it retains typical closed-back traits like a more intimate soundstage and forward presentation, it scales well with better equipment and is easy to drive, making it a strong performer that surpasses the reviewer's other headphones.