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HiFiMAN He-R9Image © Amazon

HiFiMAN He-R9

54/ 100
Average
HearWiki score

Poor value

$300
typical price, USD
Still sold newupdated
Buy now onAmazon

At a glance

Brand
HiFiMAN
Type
Over-Ear
Fit
closed
Connection
Wireless
Noise cancelling
No
Released
2024

Score breakdownaverage overall

Sound7.0
Noise cancelling0.0
Battery2.0
Calls4.0
Value6.0

The HearWiki takeAI-condensed

The HiFiMAN HE-R9 is a closed-back wireless over-ear headphone with a pronounced bass-forward sound signature that prioritizes low-end impact over neutrality. It offers versatile connectivity with Bluetooth 5.0 supporting multiple high-quality codecs, plus wired options including a balanced connection, but its specialized tuning and modest battery life make it a niche pick for bass lovers rather than a versatile all-rounder.

What works

  • Powerful, bass-heavy tuning with satisfying low-end punch
  • Supports high-resolution wireless codecs including LDAC and aptX HD
  • Includes both wireless and wired connectivity with a balanced option
  • Lightweight build at 328 grams for comfortable extended listening

What doesn't

  • Sound signature is far from neutral, making it unsuitable for mixing or critical listening
  • Treble can become piercing or harsh at times
  • Battery life is relatively short at 8 hours
  • No noise cancellation or water resistance for on-the-go use

Paraphrased from published reviews & specs - not an original hands-on test. Our AI disclosure.

Specifications

Audio - HiFiMAN He-R9
Driver50 mm dynamic
Driver typedynamic
Driver size50 mm
Drivers per side1
Frequency response15 Hz - 35 kHz
Impedance60 Ω
Sensitivity100 dB/mW

What the reviews said

5 source(s) feeding this product's score.

soundphilereview.com

40

The review criticizes the HE-R9 for a dark, muddy sound signature with treble that can become piercing, and it also notes issues with the Bluemini wireless module and build quality. The overall rating reflects a generally unfavorable view of the tuning and execution.

Read the full review

theaudiostuff.com

69

This review describes the HE-R9 as a bass-heavy closed-back headphone with a mixed overall performance. The sound signature is presented as appealing for low-end impact, but not as a universally strong technical performer.

Read the full review

headphoneer.com

The reviewer finds the HE-R9 heavily bass-forward and not close to neutral, with tuning that is unsuited to mixing or mastering. The overall impression is that it is a specialized, bass-emphasized headphone rather than an all-purpose monitor.

Read the full review

theheadphonelist.com

The reviewer highlights satisfying low-end presence and rich midrange timbre, while noting that the soundstage is limited versus open-back headphones. The HE-R9 is portrayed as technically capable but more specialized than a wide, airy all-rounder.

Read the full review

What owners say

A sample of buyer reviews, quoted as written. They aren't verified and they don't feed the HearWiki score - that comes from published reviews only.

You hear that bass

if you want that bass and still want the treble that comes with it this does it for me. great for rap, hip hop and EDM music. For action movies this rocks as well. used to sell for $600, for the price I paid for $79 is so worth it.

An imperfect but stellar headphone.

Being a big fan of Hifiman planar headphones I had mixed expectations for the HE-R9. Hifiman has consistently impressed me with their lineup. I own the HE-500, HE5XX, Sundara, and Arya, and in theRead more

Wanted to love these but...

Way too dark sounding. I kept wanting more highs but always left wanting more. These headphones are super comfy and light, and I m a big fan of Hifiman products. Unfortunately, these are just so soRead more

Cheap build, poor sound

This is low-end headphone, with extremely bloated and muddy bass, and cheap build quality. The drastic EQ curve required to make this listenable is absurd (nearly double-digit dB cuts in theRead more

via Amazon customer reviews

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