The voice in your head: Hi-Fi sound and Hi-End quality

Sooner or later, every person comes to the conclusion that life is too short to fill it with mediocre things. To truly live is to breathe deeply, enjoy the bright colors and wonderful sounds. And if you are not alien to music, then this article is definitely for you. In it we will look at Hi-Fi and Hi-End headphones. They will teach you to hear.

Professional headphones

The word “professional” appears in the names of many of the headphones reviewed. This term is somewhat misleading. Headphones designed for musicians or mastering engineers don't have to appeal exclusively to people in those professions. And if you're looking for the most accurate audio presentation you can afford within your budget, professional-grade models are your best bet.

There is a wide range of professional-grade headphones to choose from that are worth considering. Typical "tracking" headphones that musicians might wear in the recording studio can often be quite affordable, while professional-grade reference headphones designed for engineers to check their mixes can cost much more.

Let's sum it up

This is not the 70s, when Hi-Fi headphones were something out of the ordinary - now any decent audio equipment store will offer you a huge number of models. All the Hi-Fi headphones from our rating sound decent, but in different ways. You shouldn’t neglect checking: maybe the person who recommended the Dunu Titan 5 model to you likes the “bassier” sound, and you are a supporter of balanced sound - then the Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear Wireless is more suitable for you. Don’t be afraid to “strain” the consultant in the store and listen to as many models as possible. Still, Hi-Fi headphones are an expensive gadget, so you have every right to be picky.

Headphone types

There are different designs of headphones: full-size (covering the ears, over-ears) or on-ear (not fitting the ear, on-ears), open-back (headphones that output sound outside the housing, which often means more natural spatial sound), semi-open or closed ( headphones that let sound out much less).

There are also in-ear headphones. Channel-sealing earbuds can provide excellent sound quality, and some special models provide exceptionally detailed sound with excellent bass depth. No one style is inherently superior to another, so it's worth considering them all. Each option has its own advantages and disadvantages.

How to choose?

First you need to decide for what purpose you need them, where and how often you plan to use them. The individual preferences and characteristics of each individual person have generated a lot of headphones on the market of various shapes, parameters and functionality. Let's figure out how they differ from each other.

By type of construction there are:

1. Plug-in. They are also called “liners”. The most common and widespread type of headphones.
2. Intrachannel. The popular name is “plugs” or “vacuum”. They should not be confused with plug-in ones; their fit is much deeper. Placed directly into the ear canal, which provides better sealing and sound concentration.
3. Invoices. They fit on top of the auricle, the sound source is located at some distance from it.
4. Full size. They completely cover the ear, allowing you to create the best sound insulation from external noise.

According to acoustic design:

1. Closed. Their body does not have a perforated grille, which allows you to isolate sound from external sources.
2. Open. The speakers of such headphones are equipped with slots or perforations, which allows you to get rid of the “air cushion” effect. However, sound from outside can be heard more clearly.

By signal transmission method:

1. Wired. The signal from the playback device to the headphones is transmitted via wires. The most common. A common problem is that wires tend to periodically get tangled and break.
2. Wireless. In turn, they are divided into infrared, radio, Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The most common nowadays, of course, is bluetooth.
3. "Hybrid". Combining the capabilities of both the first and second.

Based on the presence of an intercom:

1. No microphone. Used only to receive audio signals.
2. With a microphone. They also allow you to transmit an audio signal. The microphone can be located either in the headphones themselves or on their cable.

Try before you buy

People are used to shopping online, but there are also many brick-and-mortar stores that sell headphones. Most of them have two key advantages over any online store: you can try on the headphones and listen to the sound, then buy and immediately leave with the headphones in your hands.

Some stores have listening stations. You will have the opportunity to select music and headphones to test. If the headphones you need are not here, you can ask the seller if he will open the box for you. Often they agree to make the sale.

However, for hygiene reasons, you won't be able to try on in-ear headphones in a store. Stations with such headphones should also be avoided.

Active Noise Cancellation System

A few words should be said about the active noise reduction system. It is used primarily in closed-type headphones. These devices contain microphones that invert the external audio signal. Thus, the new signal acts in antiphase to the noise and reduces its value to zero. Only the required sound signal coming from the player reaches the eardrums. Most listeners rate this feature in their devices positively. However, there are people with individual intolerance to active noise cancellation for one reason or another. If these are the first headphones in your life with such a system, try to test them before purchasing or make sure that this function can be turned off.

Best for Audio Engineers on a Budget: Etymotic ER4XR

The stunning Etymotic ER4 XR headphones provide the sonic precision professionals need and add deep bass depth.

Pros:

• Exceptionally accurate mids and highs combined with rich, rich bass.
• Detachable high quality cable.
• Lots of ear pad options in different sizes and styles.
• Several accessories included, including a zippered pouch.

May not like:

• There is no built-in remote control or microphone.

Prices for Yandex.Market

Etymotic ER4XR

Whizzer A15 Pro

Whizzer is known for coming into the market and literally breaking the game by offering the amazing A15 headphones at a scandalously low price. As you can imagine, the Pro version turned out to be even better, although not much more expensive.

The headphone box is small and neat. Included: ear pads on a convenient metal holder, including 6 pairs of silicone tips and 2 pairs of foam, also a nice magnetic case, a cleaning tool and a surprise keychain pick.

The model has a 10 mm speaker with beryllium coating. The cases are small, heavy, made of aluminum. The fit is behind the ear only. The cable is replaceable, MMCX connectors are adequate, but, alas, not the most reliable.

About sound. The A15 Pro's presentation is neutral, airy, very colorful and lively. There is a slight emphasis on the upper mids, acoustic music and female vocals sound great. The stage is wide and voluminous, the detail is quite good. At the same time, low frequencies are defined and massive. Among the shortcomings is a peculiar tint of timbres, which may seem inappropriate for some genres.

Best for High Quality Listening at Home: HiFiMan Ananda

The HiFiMan Ananda headphones deliver stunning sound quality, delivering a superb sense of space and detail.

Pros:

• Phenomenal sound quality with excellent sense of space, precise bass and high detail across the entire frequency range.
• No problems with long-term wearing.
• The package includes two detachable cables.

May not like:

• Open design allows sound to pass through.
• The cables lack an inline remote control and microphone.

Prices for Yandex.Market

HiFiMan Ananda

Pioneer SE MS7BT

• Mount type: headband
• Frequency range: 9-22000 Hz
• Impedance: 32 Ohm
• Sensitivity: 98 dB/mW
• Membrane diameter: 40 mm

Price : from 7,990 rubles

Pioneer SE MS7BT are two-in-one headphones made in retro style. On the one hand, the addition of “BT” to the model name quite clearly hints to us that this is a wireless model with Bluetooth support - and this is true. On the other hand, the kit includes a cable with which the accessory can be made wired.

With a wired connection, the frequency range of the Pioneer SE MS7BT is much wider - 9-40000 Hz. However, even when connected via Bluetooth or NFC, the headphones “do not fall face first into a puddle.” The manufacturer equipped them with aptX HD and AAC codecs, which allow you to transmit audio wirelessly in 24-bit/48 kHz resolution and with an increased bitrate. Rare earth magnets and lightweight aluminum coils also contribute to sound quality.

Advantages:

• Attractive design – especially in brown.
• Large and soft ear pads that cover the ear completely.
• High build quality.
• Good sound insulation is important in the absence of noise reduction.
• High quality sound with deep bass.
• Long battery life (12 hours).

Flaws:

• There is no indicator that shows the charge level.
• The included charging cable is short (50 cm).

Best for Audiophiles on a Budget: Beyerdynamic DT 770 Studio

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Studio headphones are a classic that remains relevant thanks to its excellent sound performance, stable fit and reasonable price.

Pros:

• Superior sound quality with high frequency clarity and precision.
• Sits securely on the ears.
• Minimal sound leakage.

May not like:

• Not suitable for working with mobile devices.
• There is no detachable cable.
• No buffed bosses.

Prices for Yandex.Market

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Studio

Ostry KC09

Another headphone that has remained a leader in its price category for many years. They cost a little more, but you are unlikely to be disappointed.

The model’s box is the most unusual of the entire dozen. It is small, flat, made of thick cardboard and is attached only with magnets. In the kit we get 6 pairs of silicone ear pads and a replaceable fabric-braided wire. I heard a lot of complaints about it, but the connectors are standard MMCX, so over time you can choose a cable for an upgrade.

The headphone housings are metal, have a characteristic shape that ensures a comfortable fit, and the faceplates are decorated with leather inserts. It looks beautiful and expensive.

I would call the sound velvety and dark. High frequencies are not cut off completely, but their sharpness and harshness are kept to a minimum. The resolution of the headphones is better than that of the younger model, the stage is three-dimensional, and the tones are less synthetic. On the other hand, the detail here is weaker. Ostry KC09 mainly focus on comfort and smooth melody. And, of course, one cannot fail to note the textured, weighty and accentuated bass. If you value this range, go for it. Despite the tint, I also consider this option to be quite universal.

With the most stylish design: Blue Ella

Blue Ella headphones use magnetoplanar drivers and an internal amplifier to deliver truly impeccable sound.

Pros:

• Superior sound quality using planar magnetic drivers for precision.
• Availability of internal amplifier.
• Spectacular appearance.
• Three listening modes.
• Two detachable cables included.

May not like:

• High price.
• A massive body is not for everyone.

Prices for Yandex.Market

Blue Ella

Dunu Titan 5

• Mounting type: in-channel
• Frequency range: 10-40000 Hz
• Impedance: 32 Ohm
• Sensitivity: 108 dB/mW
• Membrane diameter: 13 mm

Price : from 7,990 rubles

Dunu Titan 5 will make even a seasoned basshead turn pale in fear - if you turn them on at full power. The headphones are famous for their skillful processing of low frequencies, which at the same time know their place and do not fill the entire sound space. Excellent bass is provided by a rigid dynamic driver with a titanium diaphragm. The driver diameter is 13 millimeters, which is a lot for in-ear headphones.

The appearance of Dunu Titan 5 matches the sound - just as powerful and monumental. The stainless steel case is CNC machined and triple polished. The headphones are quite durable, but at the same time heavy. When hanging, they pull out the wire, which can cause discomfort to the user.

Advantages:

• High-quality materials (steel, rubber) and good assembly.
• Very loud sound with a moderate bias toward the bass.
• They fit tightly in the ears and do not fall out.
• A rich set - 6 pairs of attachments, a case, an adapter for 6.3 mm.
• Removable wire.

Flaws:

• Relatively heavy - they pull the wire in a hanging position.
• Soundproofing could have been better.
• No protection from sweat and moisture.

Custom headphones: JH Audio Roxanne

The impressive JH Audio Roxanne in-ears deliver impeccable sound with controlled bass thanks to a custom design with 12 drivers in each ear.

Pros:

• Superb, reference-level sound quality with exceptional high-frequency clarity and controlled bass.
• Reliable fixation protects against excess extraneous noise in the room.

May not like:

• Extremely expensive.
• There is no built-in remote control for mobile devices.

Prices for Yandex.Market

JH Audio Roxanne

What are Hi-Fi headphones?

The literal translation of the phrase Hi Fidelity (abbreviated Hi-Fi) is “high precision.” Thus, Hi-Fi headphones are devices with the sound quality closest to the original. To qualify for this class, headphones must meet minimum technical requirements (DIN-45500 standard). We list the most important indicators:

• amplitude-frequency response (AFC) distortion indicator – a parameter that determines sound purity. In Hi-Fi devices, amplitude distortion should not exceed 4 dB, and the lower this number, the closer the headphones are to the absolute ideal;
• The sound range that the human ear perceives is from 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz. The total harmonic distortion factor (or harmonic distortion) of Hi-Fi headphones in this range should not exceed 3%;
• The noise level in dB is the ratio of useful sound and noise created by the playback device itself.

Often, manufacturers of professional equipment and high-quality equipment indicate these three main parameters in the accompanying documentation instead of the name of the standard.

Wireless headphones for audiophiles: HiFiMan Deva

The HiFiMan Deva headphones deliver the detail you can expect from magnetoplanar drivers and can stream Bluetooth/High Definition audio with optional accessories.

Pros:

• Accurate bass depth and detail, especially considering the price.
• Attractive appearance.
• Can be used with a Bluetooth/HD Audio adapter ($80 extra).

May not like:

• Few accessories included.

Prices for Yandex.Market

HiFiMan Deva

Sony XBA-H3 earbuds

The impressive case for this type of device with 16 mm drivers may raise concerns about the ease of wearing the accessory. However, manufacturers have provided ear pads of different sizes, which remove all risks. The detachable, color-coded left/right ear cable and cable clip thoughtfully add comfort when using the headphones. Vocals and instrumental music sound clear and detailed.

Advantages:

• wired;
• closed;
• plug-in;
• operating range 3 – 40000 Hz;
• presence of a microphone;
• 3 emitters;
• speakers 16 mm;
• sensitivity 107 dB;
• detachable cord 1.2 m;
• oxygen-free copper wires;
• ear pads for changing – 7 pairs;
• light – 10 g.

Flaws:

• The noise reduction system is rather weak;
• cost from 12,000 rub.

5 Best DJ Headphones

Best for accuracy: Philips Fidelio X3

The Philips Fidelio X3 headphones provide clear and balanced sound that will appeal to those looking for precision instead of unrealistic lows and overly bright highs.

Pros:

• Superb sound quality.
• High quality materials and cables.
• Comfortable self-adjusting fit.

May not like:

• Price.
• There is no adapter for devices with a Lightning connector.

Prices for Yandex.Market

Philips Fidelio X3

Are Hi-Fi and Hi-End the same thing?

No. If Hi-Fi is the conformity of sound quality to a certain standard, technical standard, so to speak, the “correctness” of the sound, then Hi-End is rather the quality of the equipment itself. For a better understanding, we can draw an analogy with cars. A modern production car that meets all classes of safety, environmental friendliness, and reliability, which is ideal for the main thing - practical driving - is a Hi-Fi. A luxurious limousine with a chrome badge on the hood, leather interior and ebony and ivory trim, created to emphasize the status of the owner - this is Hi-End. But, despite the difference in price, both cars find their buyers.

Thus, Hi-End headphones are an exquisite, made from high-quality materials, perhaps even hand-assembled, a one-piece and expensive product, made, first of all, to indicate the individuality of the owner. Of course, such headphones can have Hi-Fi sound quality. Or they may not reach it. Depends on the integrity and desire of the manufacturer.

Affordable professional sound: Superlux HD-681 Evo

Superlux HD-681 Evo headphones provide professional sound quality at a relatively affordable price.

Pros:

• Excellent sound quality with rich bass and clear highs.
• They sit comfortably on the head.
• Detachable cable.
• Comes with replaceable ear pads.

May not like:

• The cable does not have a built-in control panel.
• The semi-open design allows some sound leakage.
• Quite a budget build.

Prices for Yandex.Market

Superlux HD-681 Evo

Bang & Olufsen BeoPlay H8

• Mount type: headband
• Frequency range: 20-20000 Hz
• Impedance: 30 ohms
• Sensitivity: 110 dB/mW
• Membrane diameter: 40 mm

Price : from 21,990 rubles

BeoPlay H8 is a favorite of Apple fans, who claim that only a product from the cult company B&O looks harmonious next to the iPhone. Of course - after all, BeoPlay H8 has a minimum of plastic, mainly anodized aluminum and genuine leather. Moreover, the skin of two animals at once: calf (hard headband) and sheep (soft ear pads).

No matter how the BeoPlay H8 headphones look, fastidious Apple lovers wouldn't sing their praises if they sounded mediocre. But even this is in complete order - realistic and reliable sound is provided by the proprietary B&O Signature Sound technology, on which venerable sound engineers worked. The unique Active Noise Cancelling system also makes its contribution, eliminating the sounds of the outside world “to zero,” thereby allowing the music lover to focus on his favorite compositions.

Advantages:

• Fantastically driving sound with clear but moderate bass.
• They work both from cable and via Bluetooth.
• Impressive autonomy - 16 hours without recharging in Bluetooth mode.
• Premium materials and high quality workmanship.
• Touch control - no dangling mechanical keys.
• Availability of built-in equalizer and noise reduction.

Flaws:

• They don't fold.
• The cups fit too tightly to the ears, which can cause discomfort.

FiiO FA1

Another headphone from FiiO, and this model was released relatively recently.

The box is large and durable. The kit includes only a plastic case, 6 pairs of silicone ear pads and a cleaning brush.

The headphones have a single armature driver from Knowles. The cases are acrylic, very nice and light, the faceplates are decorated with a beautiful pattern. The complex anatomical shape provides an excellent fit. The cable is replaceable, four-core, the weaving is wonderful. There is a proprietary lock for winding. MMCX connectors hold tight, even too tight.

About sound. The headphone feed is transparent, fast and detailed. High frequencies are emphasized, adding clarity to complex multi-instrument recordings. At the same time, the sound is not dry, it has weight and volume. The bass is present, it is fast, fleshy and punchy. There is not enough texture development, but the only armature already copes amazingly well with the ranges, it is stupid to demand more from it. The mids are colorful, clean and natural. All the small nuances are audible. The high frequencies are not tiring or harsh, but there are a lot of them here, take this into account if you don’t like that. For connoisseurs, on the contrary, the headphones should be very suitable. In general, FiiO FA1 implements the highest quality sound tuning.

IBasso IT01

The most budget headphones from iBasso are also time-tested. This is exactly the case when the device noticeably outperforms its price.

The box is large and of high quality, containing 10 pairs of different silicone tips, 2 pairs of foam and a replacement wire. Everything is packed in a metal branded tin can. I really like the four-core cable made of high-purity copper, it is soft, the weaving is not tight, the earhooks are absolutely comfortable, and the MMCX connectors are durable.

The headphone emitter is dynamic, with a 10 mm graphene diaphragm. The cases are plastic and large, but due to the anatomical shape and light weight, the fit does not cause problems.

About sound. The main thing in iBasso IT01 is scale and drive. The headphones boldly and decisively involve you in listening to each composition; their character is very original and charismatic. The presentation is tasteful, but very interesting. The bass has extra weight and punch, it's tight and quite deep. The middle is solid, extended and solid. High frequencies are clear but not harsh. There are not many of them in quantity, and they balance the bass well.

Which headphones to buy for lossless

KZ ZSN Pro - cool inexpensive “ears” for 1000 rubles

I’ll say right away: the KZ ZSN Pro headphones are my personal favorite in today’s selection in terms of price-quality-design ratio. They are striking in their appearance, as if they were commissioned by some musician specifically for the anatomy of his ear. But in fact, you can buy these for yourself for only 1000 rubles.

KZ ZSN Pro - headphones with detachable wire

These headphones already need to be warmed up

These are armature headphones with replaceable wires. Without going into technical details, which most likely will not interest you, unlike membrane ones, they provide higher quality playback with minimal sound distortion. This is an excellent feature for listening to lossless music.

Buy KZ ZSN Pro

KZ ZSN Pro are equipped with a 10 mm driver, but the elasticity of the bass sometimes seems to be played by a driver of a larger diameter. Their impedance is 10 Ohms and sensitivity is 112 dB. For a more optimal result, owners recommend playing with the equalizer.

Meze 12 Classics

And for those who don't like neutral sound, I have something else. Did you think I was already behind you with my Meze? It's early, guys. Let's consider a slightly more expensive twin brother.

The box is identical to the one we saw on the previous model. The configuration, characteristics of the emitter and the cable are also the same. The first difference is the wooden inserts on the metal earcups. If you have heard about the famous full-size models of this manufacturer: 99 Classics and 99 Neo, then the parallel is clear.

The second difference is the sound. While the presentation is generally similar, Meze 12 has more energy, dryness and brightness. Pros: additional liveliness of the melody, punchiness and conveyance of mood. Cons: Touch-up can get tiring. If we talk about frequencies, the bass has become a little denser and brighter. The width of the stage is completely the same. There is an emphasis on the upper mids and highs, this improves the contrast of micro-nuances, but adds synthetics.

Fischer Audio Dubliz Enhanced

This model is not the most famous in our area, but I want to include it in my top because I like its sound and is one of the best options to consider when looking for headphones for a long time.

The packaging is simple and medium in size. As for accessories, we have 4 pairs of silicone ear pads, a pair of double-flange Christmas trees, a pair of foam, a clothespin, a hard case and two replaceable wires, one with a headset for a smartphone, the second without it.

Here we have a 10.8mm dual diaphragm driver. The cases are oblong, made of metal, the assembly is impeccable. The fit is straight, there are no ear hooks. The MMCX connectors hold quite tightly. I will also note excellent noise insulation thanks to the long sound duct.

The sound of Dubliz Enhanced is rather dark, but the mids are well developed, and the cutoff in the upper frequencies does not attract attention and does not distort the overall picture. The main role is played by the bass, it is voluminous, elastic and prominent, the vibration of the sub-bass adds effectiveness to the compositions, but does not drown out the rest of the range. The middle is split, soft and natural. The detail is quite good, as is the resolution. The positioning of the instruments is close, which also adds emotion. I have already mentioned the high frequencies, they are muffled, but this is done carefully.