Is the HiFiMAN Edition X V1 worth the upgrade from the Dan Clark Audio Stealth?
Verdict
Downgrade
The HiFiMAN Edition X V1 actually scores 10.0 points below the Dan Clark Audio Stealth, so on aggregate review consensus this is a step backwards. The gains are concentrated in value (6.0 to 6.5). You do give up ground on sound (9.5 to 8.5). On paper: weight 415 g to 399 g and driver size 76 mm to 131.2 mm. It is at least $2700 cheaper, so the lower score comes with a saving. Only worth it if a specific feature above matters more to you than overall quality does.
What actually changes
Sub-scores both products have, on the same 0-10 scale. Bars extend right for a gain, left for a loss.
- Sound9.58.5
- Value6.06.5
Spec differences
Only where the two genuinely differ - everything they share is omitted.
| Spec | Stealth | Edition X V1 | Direction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 415 g | 399 g | |
| Driver size | 76 mm | 131.2 mm | |
| Driver | 76 mm planar magnetic | 131.2 mm planar magnetic | |
| Frequency response | 20 Hz - 20 kHz | 8 Hz - 50 kHz |
About this verdict
Direction matters here: this page answers "Stealth to Edition X V1". The other direction is a separate question with a different answer. Scores blend published review verdicts across over-ear and shift as new reviews land, so a marginal call today may not be one next quarter.