I have the HD600 as well as the Hifiman Edition XS. While I can appreciate the 'immediacy' and up-front presentation of the HD600 (especially on Bass heavy music such as Reggae or House music), the Hifiman is a lot better at recreating the ambience of a recording, whether it's the natural acoustics of a specific space or one that has been created in the studio. To me this often provides a greater insight into the music as one is not just hearing sounds (like with the HD600), one also hears the character of a sound in relation to it's position in the mix and the space around it. An instrument that is further back in the mix sounds different from the same instrument up close - not just louder, which is often the case with the HD600.
@@b.z9940 Yes I am. The sound is more open and 'airy' compared to the HD600, but I do prefer the HD600 with music that requires more bass impact. The Hifiman seems to struggle with such tracks. However, I think this might be due to it not being a good match with my LittleDot tube amplifier, which seems to drive the HD600 more easily.
Good review. I own the Sundara (2020 version). I absolutely love them! All headphones are tuned diffently. Depending on what amp, or dac the manufacturer used to tune it. I also own a pair of Bowers and Wilkins P9 signature when connected to my Chord Mojo give me sound made in heaven. Connect my Sundara's to mt Mojo and not that thrilling. I reasonably saw a brilliant review on the Hidizs DH80s Balanced amp/dac on RUclips and decided to buy it. At £119. 00 here in England. Wow!! This amp is pairing made in heaven for my Sundara's! Running in balanced mode, on hi gain I find it adective. What a bargain. Update: I recently purchased the ifi hip dac 2 and what a pairing! Read some reviews that said the match was made in heaven. Running in balanced mode with the high gain button pressed on is wonderful. I also have the x bass button on as i am using my Pioneer XDP-30r as a digital transport.
Yes, pairings are definitely important. That's what makes the hunt so much fun! Thanks for sharing your experience. I'll put that Hidizs on my list of things to try.
@@MrAyrit my awful mistake was selling HD600 before I bought high quality tubes, now I have 6XX and oh boi what they can do is AMAZING, mind blown performance for people who love their midrange and right tonality, they can do so much just need that audio chain right. Sundara? They blew away my Arya V2, bass and soundstage thats what Arya do better, anyway between those 2 I rather to have 6XX for sure
Thanks! My kind of thing. I owe 600 + DarkVoice tube amp for 2 years and zen can +zen blue+ sundara. I love both systems and it's real pleasure to listen music through them.I certainly have sorted out what music I like better on what headphones. There is no winner.
Sundara and the new beastly Schiit Mjolnir 3 f u Class A amp are just a match made in heaven! That amp and ZMF pads turned the Sundara into a 2k headphone easily.
Schit hifiman + schit Schiit + schit ZMF pads = match made in schitland. 2k headphone don't mean a thing. Well just kidding ok. I can imagine that combo sounds good.
That’s why I am into this so called audiophile pursuit because it’s fun, unpredictable and plenty of scope for experimentation! I love the fact that I can have many different headphones, dacs, amps, cables etc and at various different price points and types and still enjoy them all depending on what I’m listening to, where I am listening and what mood I am in etc. Good review btw! Thanks 👍
Wild to hear how hifiman seems better built that the Senns...I got into them at the OG HE5, and still have the HE-500...they are pretty janky in terms of build/comfort. Amazing how far the company has come in only ~10 years.
Good job explaining which headphones are good at specific things. For the record, I am a pretty big Sundara fan, but only when I got the singxer sa1 to pair with it. The sundara definitely benefits better from certain amps. Also, the modius was great with that pairing as the dac because it cools down the highs ever so slightly and adds a tiny bit of warmth that makes the sundara sound more natural. Also, I don't know why some people think the sundara is a good gaming headphone because it's not, neither is the hd600, so I'm glad you pointed that out too lol
@@dontron810 to certain extent, that's true, but I have also owned the bifrost 2, soncoz sdg1, and other cheaper options, but I still noticed that the modius has those slightly different characteristics
Other comparissons put the Sundara like 5% away from the Ananda... I'd love to know your opinion on the Ananda, AND especially on my own views on them. I adore my Ananda, and I just uploaded the review of my own pair. Whenever you find the time I'd love you to watch it and tell me whatcha think. As always a great, fun, and entertaining review mr Ayrit
IMO the Sundara is more versatile than the HD600, the problem is build quality of Sundara, my Sundara's right speaker (2020 version) died just over 1 year of using, and I couldn't get it repaired because the shop where I purchased the Sundara said that speaker was too complex to repair.
I run the Sundara with a correction curve, the difference in the highs is not that much present actually compared to a flat response... The change is much more present in the upper Mids and the bass. I guess it's the resolution that thing is capable that confuses, I also needed my time getting used to it.
I run the Sundara on a really V shaped DAC from Creative and I think that they are a bit too sharp. But I am waiting on a FiiO K9 AKM to arrive, i'm expecting it to balance out the Sundaras a bit more.
I have Sundara and 660s, they complement each other perfectly,, I use 660s as my daily driver for RUclips etc, and my Sundara for casual music listening.
I also have Sundara and 660S and yeah they complement each other Perfectly, But i use Sundara for Movies and Games and 660s for music ( 660s sound more natural)
Planar magnetics as a rule in my opinion, never do well with tube amps. The Sundaras definately need power. I am pushing around 6500mw and they could handle more easily.
Im recently upgraded from k7xx ive owned for about 8 years. After a bunch of research i narrowed down the top 2 contenders to be hd6xx vs sundara. Tried to like the hd6xx since it was the cheaper option. I got it first. And used i for 3 months. even got a little dot mkii and russian tubes but the tubes were noisey and i didnt really connect well with the hd6xx. The more i compared it vs the k7xx it felt more like a sidegrade, not an upgrade. I then got the sundara. i had the sundara for about 2 weeks and would rarely use the 6xx. I used the subdara 75% of the time vs 6xx 25% of the time. Eventually i sold the hd6xx and returned the tubes and amp. The sundara, i was blown away by. Music felt more alive and fun to listen to yet neutral. I game/music/movies like 50%/25%/25% and the 3 blob stage of thr hd6xx felt bit too claustrophobic. Listening to music it felt the k7xx is very wide... Like i was 50 feet back from the stage. and definitely lacking low end. The sundara made me feel like im sitting front row. The hd6xx like im the conductor, surrounded by the band. Gaming i switch back and forth between the k7xx for its wide soundstage and laid back bass, i play a lot of cod wz so theres a lot of explosions, it can get tiring. The 6xx was too muddy for me and also made my ears sweat. Using an evga soundcard with an ifi zen can amp. I also roam around the house with an es100. Enjoying music with a new level of bass ive been missing.
6XX is like a diamond you just need a proper gear to make it shine. I'm using it with tube amp thats 5 times more expensive than 6XX itself. They are at level of performance somewhere at ~1000$ headphones. Planars can only dream to reach that beautiful timbre and midrange, HD600/6XX midrange and tonality can be compared to 5000$ headphones and still win it.
That is not my impression of it. For some reason, I usually come away from the 650 and 600 feeling like they are a bit grainy and edgy, which most people don’t seem to think. iDK, maybe I just hear differently.
@@MrAyrit where 600 is lacking is for sure sub bass region, mid range is very well done, highs are present but not edgy or too sharp :) but thats my ears like you said everybody hear different
@@MrAyrit Even if u hear differently , there is no way Sundara sound more natural and easy compared to HD650 or 660s ( 600 are a bit more forward) . I am telling that because even if we people sound different the Headphones are mostly 1-2 db different so a Person that doesnt has great hearing can easy say that Beyer or Grado are more bright compared to HD 650 .
@@soulfulfool My Fav headphones are Sundara , 600,650,660s , Focal Clear. All these years i thought that they lack and they do on sub bass but its not the driver but the sound signature , i am saying that because they can have eq easy without problems on normal loudness , and honestly i dont like the sub bass 3-4 db more on these Headphones, (hD660s can have more EQ way better capable driver) .
@@Tripokaridos22 I dont EQ my headphones, I like their flavours. For example 3 of my collection with different sound signature are Clear, Arya and Grado RS1e. HD600 got nice timbre so I do also keep it same as above its unique of a kind
I have always hate the music sound of the HD600,which does not have any kind of deep bass or Dynamic punch, but when it comes to Podcast or Radio Broadcasts talking, there is no headphone that is better than the Sennheiser HD600 to lissen to and do that very great closed sound.
I just started the audiophile thing . I just want to own a sendhiezer like hd600 ,but there is a lot of choices.I ordered the Arya stealth.and I want the best .a lot of reviews and I only get more confused what to get from sennhiezer.
It's all subjective. I'd say try a few cheaper headphones and listen to reviewers to see who you think matches up best with your own views. There's no one "best" headphone. I'd suggest that you think of it more as "best for you".
Would you try running the hd600 with a fiio btr5 dac amp 🤔 Be interested in your comments on this, as I run the hd560s open back headphones with the btr5 and it's pretty darn impressive, just like the hd600, thinking of buying them 😀 Cheers David
The build Quality is Way Better on Sennheiser , a) they Dont Squick like Sundara metal and Plastic on the Yokes when u move, b) The cable on Sundara always fail, c) Sundara has L+R channel unbalance sound most of the times, d) Sundara pads do unglue or the Fake leather trims out, e) Sundara Sounds mostly Depend on Air pressure around ( for example use your hands and slowly move them close to the drivers , sound will change a lot )
I don’t know man, that’s a lot of pretty heavy accusations for a headphone that they sell a ton of. Using terms like “always” or “most of the time” would imply the majority have those issues. I can only speak to my two sets that I’ve had in my possession, but neither had issues. One was the new model and one was the old model. I also have not had any issues with Sennheisers I’ve owned.
@@MrAyrit I think its a good idea to read some posts on Forums HEad fi for example . I am happy for u that didnt had any problems but the fact is that there are a lot of problems with these , Amazon reviews say that , Forums say that... I think my opinion and yours doesnt matter the most , its all about most people opinion . By the way amazing videos u make , great quality and very easy to watch .
sundaras are very good with zen dac and bass button on i own and work with stellias most of the time but these sundaras have a raveparty slam and space , man the stellias are a holodeck from startrack, u can touch sound but the sundaras are pure fun (an indoor porta pro) oh i love my portas....
Both feels and looks super cheap. Materials are crap. If anything I wooden go with senns only because they despite their cheap materials , they are built to last years. Hifiman seems like they will last coupe. Years and die .
@@WJACOTT Other than carbon fiber , there is no better material than good quality PLASTIC the reason is Weight and this is the most important for something that u have in your head for many hours. So yeah There are other premium materials like wood that i love but it way to heavy . I had Bowers And Wilkins Headphones and when i first bought my HD600 i say omg WTF is this crap ? looks cheap feels cheap thats true but honestly ? The Plastic is hard enough for not braking and the Weight compared to B&W was night and Day ... I still look my B&W and B&O headphones and say wow they are premium... But it just for looks .
question about the sundaras and amps (im a noob). When you say the headphones come together with more power (mjolnir amp) would that imply that you listen to them at a higher volume and hence would need the beefier amp? also i guess another question about amps in general, do they actually change the sound of a headphone or do they just power them?
i have a pair of sundaras and a magni 3, and tbh i cant tell the difference between plugging the sundaras straight into my macbook vs into the magni 3 which is plugged into my macbook. my macbook runs the sundaras plenty loud, and so ig from my green ears and limited personal experience I dont understand a more powerful amp (mjolnir) would change the listening experience.
I usually don’t listen past 70db. Amps definitely change the sound of headphones. If an amp is underpowered often headphones have less definition and sound weak. More power can mean more control over the driver, they’ll sound cleaner, crisper, have more power but also more resolution. That’s the idea anyway, depends on the headphones and the amp.
on Amazon two sellers are taken who apparently see the same pair (sundara), only that one costs €329 and the other €420, with the only difference being that the €420 one in the advertisement Is there the writing "latest version", do you think they are the exact same pair?
Hmmm, not sure. I would think that if it is new they'd be down to just the latest version at this point. Can you not buy directly from Hifiman? They do open-box sales on these all the time and those are a pretty good deal.
@@MrAyrit the problem is that since I live in the EU, the package takes a long time to arrive, plus I also have to pay the shipping and customs fees, since as I understand it, shipping is not included.
@@MrAyrit Since Ever... There is no Suspension mechanism on the Strap , Magnetic or Spring or something else. The Fake leather strap is not moving at all. Is how can i say it ??? A Fixed NOT movable Strap . I am 1000% sure i have both Versions of Sundara in front of me . There is not Even an elastic band on that Strap to justify the word Suspension Strap. I know it doesn't feel good to be corrected , u will get there after years ....
@@Tripokaridos22 One of Miriam-Webster's definitions of "suspension" is; "the act of hanging". And one of their definitions for "Hanging" is; "to fasten to some elevated point without support from below : SUSPEND" Which sums up the entire function of said strap. "I know it doesn't feel good to be corrected , u will get there after years ...." I hope you take this as an opportunity for some personal growth and humility. Because what I read above reeks of arrogant ignorance.
Is this a new version? I heard the k5 pro awhile back. I can’t remember if it has always had an Sabre chip or if it was akm. I do remember finding it a bit sharp, so I personally wouldn’t pair it with the Sundara. Anything else you’re considering?
@@MrAyrit i live in europe and the only other option that seems good is a topping dx3 pro+ which lies exactly under 200 euro. i would not really like to spend so much money so these are the only two options. i ruled the topping out tho coz its supposed to be even sharper and not as laid back and warm as the k5 pro ess. 🤷♂️
sundara does not sound natural to me . i purchased it 4 times , then ended up selling or returning it. I tried liking it because of the hype but no matter I tried I just can't be happy with it. Vocals lacked texture, treble was too forward, sound stage was two dimensional. Also the big metal frame was uncomfortable to use in bed compared to Sennheiser.
I do own Sundara power by Audio gd NFP 1. Never like the way it delivers music. It only satisfied me when I have to listen at low level this is when Music can flow well. I don't like the lumpiness of it when push hard May be they don't make for each others.
HF 600 is unconfortable. Sundara is fatigueing. Really... I don't super like either. I loverd the hifiman he 400 se, but mine broke. I think you should buy a Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm). I think it's better. Well ofc ideally you get all of them and enjoy the pros and cons of each.
What are you currently using? Definitely a tube amp for the 600. DAC really depends on your budget, but I am really enjoying the Cayin RU6 for a cheaper option.
I use Sundaras since roughly a year for several hours per day in my Studio. Built quality is awesome, nothing to worry so far, except that I needed to replace the earpads few weeks ago. They are getting too soft over time and are not glued properly, they don't come cheap if you are getting the original ones...
I just bought the HE560 V4 for $199 new from Adorama. I like it quite a bit. Excellent bang for the buck IMHO.. I also have the HE6se V2 I bought from Adorama new for $549. It's a great headphone. Personally, I like them both more than the Sundara.
@@MrAyrit Well, that's right. You can get them for around $230. But only if you are fine with all the (potential) drawbacks of used head phones such as no/worse warranty, oversea shipment (e.g. if you live in the EU) including customs etc..
@@EnsoReloaded I’m not sure Adorama’s shipping policy, but if you get on their email list, they do flash sales around that price for new. You just have to be patient. Their pricing is really weird; either wait for a sale or buy for 4x the price… I just ordered a set of new speakers from them for $220, but brand new they have them listed for $800 or $900. Gotta love pricing games.
Quick answer: NO! There are not many closed-back headphones that are all that great, but(!) some reliable sources have indicated that Meze, for one, may well have successfully done it. More $$$ though! I have no personal experience with it to back that up, though. I have yet to be convinced. I would not want to steer you to any 'dumpster fire' closed-back model. Explore Meze as you wish, though.
I would say the 560s is the most accurate of the bunch. It would be closer to the Sundara than the 600. My main gripe with the 560s was size and comfort-it was just a little too small. Because of that, even though I prefer the sound of the 560s, I’d probably still take the m1060 of that bunch. Maybe a pad-swapped 560s. That would be a fun thing to experiment with at some point.
HD560s are more correct to Harman and bigger soundstage because of the angled drivers , BUT HD600 are way more capable headphones in my opinion they resolve better and they have that In your head vocals that none Headphone can do .
Yes, my perspective is probably skewed a bit at this point. However, I like to think I’m still reasonably down to Earth. My daily driver is a $700 headphone which isn’t crazy (in my world).
I'd say the 600s don't go deep, but they do articulate the bass they have better than many headphones in their universe. I have a few headphones noted for bass that has more impact. But- imo, they also seem a bit confused.
I really regret selling my HD600. Now I have 6XX, both need really good tube amp so never sell it before you hear that glorious midrange magic. That midrange and tonality they represent is legendary, even headphones for 5000$ struggle to win in that regard. Highest value headphones in the history for real, just need good audio chain to unlock their potential.
@@soulfulfool How would you describe the mids of the 600? If I ever buy a nice hp, I'd like to try the 600 first cuz of its legendary reputation. Also, for amplification, how much more $ do you need to spend?
Bought Sundaras and k9pro ess just a week ago. Really great for everything except metal and rock. Quite disappointing for those two genres to be honest :/
I'm pretty surprised you feel that way. I mean yea , my sundara's definitely not close to my audeze lcdx but I find the sundara's really good with these genre's paired with the magni hersey and schiit modi 3E
So what budget solid state/tube amps would you recommend for the hd 600s? I have a topping L30 with an smsl 10th mk2 dac, i'm not sure if this is good enough to bring the hd600s to life.
I’d throw something with tubes at it. You could try something like the Vali 2 or mt602. My favorite amp with the 6xx was the little dot mkii. You may want to go check that review out.
@@MrAyrit could be the case with many new audiophiles, we would get lost in the terminology where for a novice wouldn't know say timbre or what imaging would mean...currently even i am learning said terminologies and indeed it is a mouthful. I am coming from a background of building my own computer, made a custom keyboard and now dipping my toes in the world of sound. Currently i am checking out the hd600 cause of the reputation it has
If it matters i have , HD 600 , 650,660s and Sundara . I like all of them . HD600 are the Vocals Kings and a bit forward, HD650 are the SMoothness Kings (veil), and HD660s have something of them both , but with something that others dont and this is SPEED and Imaging , HD660s image is even better than Sundara for sure. SUndara on the other hand are Not natural like HD6 line , they are more Excitement Headphones amazing separation better soundstage for sure ( if u like biger soundstage ) . In my Opinion if u want 2 Headphones only then HD660s + Sundara is all u need , u have everything with those . Oh HD560s are also great if u dont have Good equipment .
If you bought Sundara you can try to listen the HD600 just to check. But if you bought the HD600, please NEVER try to listen to the Sundara or you will lose appetite on that trash Sennheiser! hahaha!
I have only used the HD600 with Jotunheim 1 with a dac. I also tried the HD650, Phillips Fidelio X2, HD599, Audio technica 700, a Beyerdynamic, but i dont remember which one, when i bought the hd600 and the hd650 i was decideing between the two, HD600 was the favorit, i also kept the Fidelio X2, returned the rest, but the intimate vocals that the HD600 brings is quite something else. My newest headset now is the Audeze Maxwell, they are great, but they don't deliver the intimate vocals of the HD600 paired with jotunheim, unfortunatley the dac broke on the jotunheim, so will either get it fixed or buy a seperate balanced dac, so i havent been able to compare the two other than from what i remember.
@@JanXXVI The hd600's sounded terrible to me. It's soundstage was narrow and it had over emphasized upper mids which came across as shouty and fatiguing.
@@johenkay1129 The soundstage is narrow, thats why i have the Fidelio x2 to compliment it. If i wanted more soundstage and bass i used the Fidelio, but if i wanted to listened to great vocals the HD600 was the way to go, and no other headphones have moved me like HD600 with the Jotunheim. Granted i havent listen to a lot of really expensive headphones, as i cant afford them, i do plan to go to a hifi shop soon and hopefully listend to the Sundara, Lcd X and Lcd 2c. The upper mids don't bother me personally, but i get that for some they do, so some eq tuning might be in order. Im looking forward to fixing the dac in the jotunheim, get new pads on the HD600 as they are very worn, and compare them and the fidelio to audeze maxwell.
I have the HD600 as well as the Hifiman Edition XS. While I can appreciate the 'immediacy' and up-front presentation of the HD600 (especially on Bass heavy music such as Reggae or House music), the Hifiman is a lot better at recreating the ambience of a recording, whether it's the natural acoustics of a specific space or one that has been created in the studio. To me this often provides a greater insight into the music as one is not just hearing sounds (like with the HD600), one also hears the character of a sound in relation to it's position in the mix and the space around it. An instrument that is further back in the mix sounds different from the same instrument up close - not just louder, which is often the case with the HD600.
A had the same feeling when my hifiman he400se arrived after many ears listening to the hd600
this was really helpfull thanks!
Are u still happy with the XS?
@@b.z9940 Yes I am. The sound is more open and 'airy' compared to the HD600, but I do prefer the HD600 with music that requires more bass impact. The Hifiman seems to struggle with such tracks. However, I think this might be due to it not being a good match with my LittleDot tube amplifier, which seems to drive the HD600 more easily.
Good review. I own the Sundara (2020 version). I absolutely love them! All headphones are tuned diffently. Depending on what amp, or dac the manufacturer used to tune it. I also own a pair of Bowers and Wilkins P9 signature when connected to my Chord Mojo give me sound made in heaven. Connect my Sundara's to mt Mojo and not that thrilling. I reasonably saw a brilliant review on the Hidizs DH80s Balanced amp/dac on RUclips and decided to buy it. At £119. 00 here in England. Wow!! This amp is pairing made in heaven for my Sundara's! Running in balanced mode, on hi gain I find it adective. What a bargain. Update: I recently purchased the ifi hip dac 2 and what a pairing! Read some reviews that said the match was made in heaven. Running in balanced mode with the high gain button pressed on is wonderful. I also have the x bass button on as i am using my Pioneer XDP-30r as a digital transport.
Yes, pairings are definitely important. That's what makes the hunt so much fun! Thanks for sharing your experience. I'll put that Hidizs on my list of things to try.
@@MrAyrit my awful mistake was selling HD600 before I bought high quality tubes, now I have 6XX and oh boi what they can do is AMAZING, mind blown performance for people who love their midrange and right tonality, they can do so much just need that audio chain right. Sundara? They blew away my Arya V2, bass and soundstage thats what Arya do better, anyway between those 2 I rather to have 6XX for sure
Thanks! My kind of thing. I owe 600 + DarkVoice tube amp for 2 years and zen can +zen blue+ sundara. I love both systems and it's real pleasure to listen music through them.I certainly have sorted out what music I like better on what headphones. There is no winner.
Sundara and the new beastly Schiit Mjolnir 3 f u Class A amp are just a match made in heaven! That amp and ZMF pads turned the Sundara into a 2k headphone easily.
Schit hifiman + schit Schiit + schit ZMF pads = match made in schitland. 2k headphone don't mean a thing. Well just kidding ok. I can imagine that combo sounds good.
That’s why I am into this so called audiophile pursuit because it’s fun, unpredictable and plenty of scope for experimentation! I love the fact that I can have many different headphones, dacs, amps, cables etc and at various different price points and types and still enjoy them all depending on what I’m listening to, where I am listening and what mood I am in etc. Good review btw! Thanks 👍
Wild to hear how hifiman seems better built that the Senns...I got into them at the OG HE5, and still have the HE-500...they are pretty janky in terms of build/comfort. Amazing how far the company has come in only ~10 years.
Good job explaining which headphones are good at specific things. For the record, I am a pretty big Sundara fan, but only when I got the singxer sa1 to pair with it. The sundara definitely benefits better from certain amps. Also, the modius was great with that pairing as the dac because it cools down the highs ever so slightly and adds a tiny bit of warmth that makes the sundara sound more natural. Also, I don't know why some people think the sundara is a good gaming headphone because it's not, neither is the hd600, so I'm glad you pointed that out too lol
What your probably hearing with the modius is an increase in fidelity, it's not built to change sound color like that
@@dontron810 to certain extent, that's true, but I have also owned the bifrost 2, soncoz sdg1, and other cheaper options, but I still noticed that the modius has those slightly different characteristics
Other comparissons put the Sundara like 5% away from the Ananda... I'd love to know your opinion on the Ananda, AND especially on my own views on them.
I adore my Ananda, and I just uploaded the review of my own pair. Whenever you find the time I'd love you to watch it and tell me whatcha think. As always a great, fun, and entertaining review mr Ayrit
I’ve got a comparison with the Ananda and Edition XX.
IMO the Sundara is more versatile than the HD600, the problem is build quality of Sundara, my Sundara's right speaker (2020 version) died just over 1 year of using, and I couldn't get it repaired because the shop where I purchased the Sundara said that speaker was too complex to repair.
Money back then
hit up hifiman support
I vote for Sunheister.
Isn't that the band Adam Neely's playing in?
I’m a Senndara fanboy myself.
Of course.. typical senn fanboy..hifiman are overall better. Heck even R70x are even better and cheaper..
@@a2raya772 typical Senn hater, am I right?
@@robovirtuoso1354 nope. im calling fanboys out even when they cant admit it.
HD600 👑
Really enjoyed this video. Great job!
I would like to see an even warmer Sundara edition in the future.Hifiman is in love with the tremble..
I run the Sundara with a correction curve, the difference in the highs is not that much present actually compared to a flat response... The change is much more present in the upper Mids and the bass. I guess it's the resolution that thing is capable that confuses, I also needed my time getting used to it.
I run the Sundara on a really V shaped DAC from Creative and I think that they are a bit too sharp. But I am waiting on a FiiO K9 AKM to arrive, i'm expecting it to balance out the Sundaras a bit more.
I have Sundara and 660s, they complement each other perfectly,, I use 660s as my daily driver for RUclips etc, and my Sundara for casual music listening.
I also have Sundara and 660S and yeah they complement each other Perfectly, But i use Sundara for Movies and Games and 660s for music ( 660s sound more natural)
I feel the same about the hd560s and sundara
nice review....I think Ananda will hot the sweer spot for you, as I think the shortcomings of both these are covered there.....
I had the Ananda for a bit and compared it to the Edition XX (the old model). I preferred the XX.
i just bought sundara for 110 euros and they aound good i still
need to buy a dac amp
Planar magnetics as a rule in my opinion, never do well with tube amps. The Sundaras definately need power. I am pushing around 6500mw and they could handle more easily.
Im recently upgraded from k7xx ive owned for about 8 years. After a bunch of research i narrowed down the top 2 contenders to be hd6xx vs sundara.
Tried to like the hd6xx since it was the cheaper option. I got it first. And used i for 3 months. even got a little dot mkii and russian tubes but the tubes were noisey and i didnt really connect well with the hd6xx. The more i compared it vs the k7xx it felt more like a sidegrade, not an upgrade.
I then got the sundara. i had the sundara for about 2 weeks and would rarely use the 6xx. I used the subdara 75% of the time vs 6xx 25% of the time. Eventually i sold the hd6xx and returned the tubes and amp.
The sundara, i was blown away by. Music felt more alive and fun to listen to yet neutral. I game/music/movies like 50%/25%/25% and the 3 blob stage of thr hd6xx felt bit too claustrophobic.
Listening to music it felt the k7xx is very wide... Like i was 50 feet back from the stage. and definitely lacking low end. The sundara made me feel like im sitting front row. The hd6xx like im the conductor, surrounded by the band.
Gaming i switch back and forth between the k7xx for its wide soundstage and laid back bass, i play a lot of cod wz so theres a lot of explosions, it can get tiring. The 6xx was too muddy for me and also made my ears sweat.
Using an evga soundcard with an ifi zen can amp. I also roam around the house with an es100. Enjoying music with a new level of bass ive been missing.
6XX is like a diamond you just need a proper gear to make it shine. I'm using it with tube amp thats 5 times more expensive than 6XX itself. They are at level of performance somewhere at ~1000$ headphones. Planars can only dream to reach that beautiful timbre and midrange, HD600/6XX midrange and tonality can be compared to 5000$ headphones and still win it.
Hd600 more natural and easy sounding.
That is not my impression of it. For some reason, I usually come away from the 650 and 600 feeling like they are a bit grainy and edgy, which most people don’t seem to think. iDK, maybe I just hear differently.
@@MrAyrit where 600 is lacking is for sure sub bass region, mid range is very well done, highs are present but not edgy or too sharp :) but thats my ears like you said everybody hear different
@@MrAyrit Even if u hear differently , there is no way Sundara sound more natural and easy compared to HD650 or 660s ( 600 are a bit more forward) . I am telling that because even if we people sound different the Headphones are mostly 1-2 db different so a Person that doesnt has great hearing can easy say that Beyer or Grado are more bright compared to HD 650 .
@@soulfulfool My Fav headphones are Sundara , 600,650,660s , Focal Clear. All these years i thought that they lack and they do on sub bass but its not the driver but the sound signature , i am saying that because they can have eq easy without problems on normal loudness , and honestly i dont like the sub bass 3-4 db more on these Headphones, (hD660s can have more EQ way better capable driver) .
@@Tripokaridos22 I dont EQ my headphones, I like their flavours. For example 3 of my collection with different sound signature are Clear, Arya and Grado RS1e. HD600 got nice timbre so I do also keep it same as above its unique of a kind
If Hifiman makes Sundara 15% better ( make it more hd 600+ bass timbre) without raising too much the price it will sell MILLIONS
I have always hate the music sound of the HD600,which does not have any kind of deep bass or Dynamic punch, but when it comes to Podcast or Radio Broadcasts talking, there is no headphone that is better than the Sennheiser HD600 to lissen to and do that very great closed sound.
Nice job, keep up the good work.. 👍
I just started the audiophile thing . I just want to own a sendhiezer like hd600 ,but there is a lot of choices.I ordered the Arya stealth.and I want the best .a lot of reviews and I only get more confused what to get from sennhiezer.
It's all subjective. I'd say try a few cheaper headphones and listen to reviewers to see who you think matches up best with your own views. There's no one "best" headphone. I'd suggest that you think of it more as "best for you".
Yeah, there's no top banana among the headphones. It will ultimately come down to your own listening preferences. Relax and have fun searching!
Would you try running the hd600 with a fiio btr5 dac amp 🤔
Be interested in your comments on this, as I run the hd560s open back headphones with the btr5 and it's pretty darn impressive, just like the hd600, thinking of buying them 😀
Cheers David
I’ve already sold the 600, but I’m not sure it would be a great pairing. The 660s would be a safer bet.
The build Quality is Way Better on Sennheiser , a) they Dont Squick like Sundara metal and Plastic on the Yokes when u move, b) The cable on Sundara always fail, c) Sundara has L+R channel unbalance sound most of the times, d) Sundara pads do unglue or the Fake leather trims out, e) Sundara Sounds mostly Depend on Air pressure around ( for example use your hands and slowly move them close to the drivers , sound will change a lot )
I don’t know man, that’s a lot of pretty heavy accusations for a headphone that they sell a ton of. Using terms like “always” or “most of the time” would imply the majority have those issues. I can only speak to my two sets that I’ve had in my possession, but neither had issues. One was the new model and one was the old model. I also have not had any issues with Sennheisers I’ve owned.
@@MrAyrit I think its a good idea to read some posts on Forums HEad fi for example . I am happy for u that didnt had any problems but the fact is that there are a lot of problems with these , Amazon reviews say that , Forums say that... I think my opinion and yours doesnt matter the most , its all about most people opinion . By the way amazing videos u make , great quality and very easy to watch .
sundaras are very good with zen dac and bass button on
i own and work with stellias most of the time
but these sundaras have a raveparty slam and space , man
the stellias are a holodeck from startrack, u can touch sound but the sundaras are pure fun (an indoor porta pro)
oh i love my portas....
Both feels and looks super cheap. Materials are crap. If anything I wooden go with senns only because they despite their cheap materials , they are built to last years. Hifiman seems like they will last coupe. Years and die .
@@WJACOTT Other than carbon fiber , there is no better material than good quality PLASTIC the reason is Weight and this is the most important for something that u have in your head for many hours. So yeah There are other premium materials like wood that i love but it way to heavy . I had Bowers And Wilkins Headphones and when i first bought my HD600 i say omg WTF is this crap ? looks cheap feels cheap thats true but honestly ? The Plastic is hard enough for not braking and the Weight compared to B&W was night and Day ... I still look my B&W and B&O headphones and say wow they are premium... But it just for looks .
question about the sundaras and amps (im a noob). When you say the headphones come together with more power (mjolnir amp) would that imply that you listen to them at a higher volume and hence would need the beefier amp? also i guess another question about amps in general, do they actually change the sound of a headphone or do they just power them?
i have a pair of sundaras and a magni 3, and tbh i cant tell the difference between plugging the sundaras straight into my macbook vs into the magni 3 which is plugged into my macbook.
my macbook runs the sundaras plenty loud, and so ig from my green ears and limited personal experience I dont understand a more powerful amp (mjolnir) would change the listening experience.
I usually don’t listen past 70db. Amps definitely change the sound of headphones. If an amp is underpowered often headphones have less definition and sound weak. More power can mean more control over the driver, they’ll sound cleaner, crisper, have more power but also more resolution. That’s the idea anyway, depends on the headphones and the amp.
Can mojo 2 power these 2 efficiently?
Yes, you’d be fine with that set up.
It would be nice if you kept a spotify and/or apple music link for the playlist of music you use to test headphones
Can do. I'll link some playlists in the future.
on Amazon two sellers are taken who apparently see the same pair (sundara), only that one costs €329 and the other €420, with the only difference being that the €420 one in the advertisement Is there the writing "latest version", do you think they are the exact same pair?
Hmmm, not sure. I would think that if it is new they'd be down to just the latest version at this point. Can you not buy directly from Hifiman? They do open-box sales on these all the time and those are a pretty good deal.
@@MrAyrit the problem is that since I live in the EU, the package takes a long time to arrive, plus I also have to pay the shipping and customs fees, since as I understand it, shipping is not included.
You didn't tell us what you would go for instead in the conclusion. That would be good. do you like the audio technicas
If you whant i good sounding Heaphone and a amp Go For a AKG 371 and ifi Audio ZEN DAC V2,and you are set for life ;)
5:20 , Correction Sundara doesn't have Suspension Strap
Since when?
@@MrAyrit Since Ever... There is no Suspension mechanism on the Strap , Magnetic or Spring or something else. The Fake leather strap is not moving at all. Is how can i say it ??? A Fixed NOT movable Strap . I am 1000% sure i have both Versions of Sundara in front of me . There is not Even an elastic band on that Strap to justify the word Suspension Strap. I know it doesn't feel good to be corrected , u will get there after years ....
@@Tripokaridos22you are right, but mine didn't came with a leather strap, but made from some sort of felt...
@@eccentricworx Yeah I don't know why he said they have Suspension Strap . No version of Sundara ever had
@@Tripokaridos22
One of Miriam-Webster's definitions of "suspension" is; "the act of hanging".
And one of their definitions for "Hanging" is; "to fasten to some elevated point without support from below : SUSPEND"
Which sums up the entire function of said strap.
"I know it doesn't feel good to be corrected , u will get there after years ...."
I hope you take this as an opportunity for some personal growth and humility. Because what I read above reeks of arrogant ignorance.
is the k5 pro ess a good amp/dac for the sundara in your oppinion?
Is this a new version? I heard the k5 pro awhile back. I can’t remember if it has always had an Sabre chip or if it was akm. I do remember finding it a bit sharp, so I personally wouldn’t pair it with the Sundara. Anything else you’re considering?
@@MrAyrit i live in europe and the only other option that seems good is a topping dx3 pro+ which lies exactly under 200 euro. i would not really like to spend so much money so these are the only two options. i ruled the topping out tho coz its supposed to be even sharper and not as laid back and warm as the k5 pro ess. 🤷♂️
Yes very good on high level , i have it with my Sundara works great .
sundara does not sound natural to me . i purchased it 4 times , then ended up selling or returning it. I tried liking it because of the hype but no matter I tried I just can't be happy with it. Vocals lacked texture, treble was too forward, sound stage was two dimensional. Also the big metal frame was uncomfortable to use in bed compared to Sennheiser.
I also had difficulty connecting with it. I tell ya though, the Mjolnir seriously woke it up.
I do own Sundara power by Audio gd NFP 1. Never like the way it delivers music. It only satisfied me when I have to listen at low level this is when Music can flow well. I don't like the lumpiness of it when push hard May be they don't make for each others.
EQ fixed the vocals for me. Recession around 2k makes voices sound distant
@@MA-jz4yc vocals don't have that forwardness no matter how much you eq.
HF 600 is unconfortable. Sundara is fatigueing. Really... I don't super like either. I loverd the hifiman he 400 se, but mine broke. I think you should buy a Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm). I think it's better. Well ofc ideally you get all of them and enjoy the pros and cons of each.
Wich amp and dac should i use with hd600 ?
What are you currently using? Definitely a tube amp for the 600. DAC really depends on your budget, but I am really enjoying the Cayin RU6 for a cheaper option.
should I be worried about Hifiman quality control, i want to get the Sundara but I've heard bad things about their build
I’ve never had a problem.
I use Sundaras since roughly a year for several hours per day in my Studio. Built quality is awesome, nothing to worry so far, except that I needed to replace the earpads few weeks ago. They are getting too soft over time and are not glued properly, they don't come cheap if you are getting the original ones...
sen 660...
14:02 The HE-560 V4 costs more than double compared to the Sundara. I wouldn't consider this the same price range 😉
You can buy them pretty much anytime from Adorama or Hifiman for $220.
I just bought the HE560 V4 for $199 new from Adorama. I like it quite a bit. Excellent bang for the buck IMHO.. I also have the HE6se V2 I bought from Adorama new for $549. It's a great headphone. Personally, I like them both more than the Sundara.
@@Steve0310 agreed
@@MrAyrit Well, that's right. You can get them for around $230. But only if you are fine with all the (potential) drawbacks of used head phones such as no/worse warranty, oversea shipment (e.g. if you live in the EU) including customs etc..
@@EnsoReloaded I’m not sure Adorama’s shipping policy, but if you get on their email list, they do flash sales around that price for new. You just have to be patient. Their pricing is really weird; either wait for a sale or buy for 4x the price… I just ordered a set of new speakers from them for $220, but brand new they have them listed for $800 or $900. Gotta love pricing games.
Does the closed Sundara sound better than hd600?
Quick answer: NO! There are not many closed-back headphones that are all that great, but(!) some reliable sources have indicated that Meze, for one, may well have successfully done it. More $$$ though! I have no personal experience with it to back that up, though. I have yet to be convinced. I would not want to steer you to any 'dumpster fire' closed-back model. Explore Meze as you wish, though.
Is this 2020 version?
Yeah, latest version of the Sundara. Old set of hd600.
Sennheiser hd560s or hd600??
Whats the main difference in them??
Would you still recommend m1060c??
I would say the 560s is the most accurate of the bunch. It would be closer to the Sundara than the 600. My main gripe with the 560s was size and comfort-it was just a little too small. Because of that, even though I prefer the sound of the 560s, I’d probably still take the m1060 of that bunch. Maybe a pad-swapped 560s. That would be a fun thing to experiment with at some point.
@@MrAyrit thanks for the reply
HD560s are more correct to Harman and bigger soundstage because of the angled drivers , BUT HD600 are way more capable headphones in my opinion they resolve better and they have that In your head vocals that none Headphone can do .
This is obviously a review coming from someone that is now used to summit headphones 😂 Good review nevertheless
Yes, my perspective is probably skewed a bit at this point. However, I like to think I’m still reasonably down to Earth. My daily driver is a $700 headphone which isn’t crazy (in my world).
@@MrAyrit what headphone is that
@@theodorezurla496 8xx
sun yat sen ftw
Hifimans are just better overall
Senn, by far!
I'd say the 600s don't go deep, but they do articulate the bass they have better than many headphones in their universe. I have a few headphones noted for bass that has more impact. But- imo, they also seem a bit confused.
I really regret selling my HD600. Now I have 6XX, both need really good tube amp so never sell it before you hear that glorious midrange magic. That midrange and tonality they represent is legendary, even headphones for 5000$ struggle to win in that regard. Highest value headphones in the history for real, just need good audio chain to unlock their potential.
@@soulfulfool How would you describe the mids of the 600? If I ever buy a nice hp, I'd like to try the 600 first cuz of its legendary reputation. Also, for amplification, how much more $ do you need to spend?
@@soulfulfool "glorious midrange magic" doesn't tell anything my friend.
@@robovirtuoso1354 yea its pointless to describe it, 600 got legend status not without a reason there are too many vids to even bother to do so
Bought Sundaras and k9pro ess just a week ago. Really great for everything except metal and rock. Quite disappointing for those two genres to be honest :/
Would you mind sharing what spoils those genres for you?
I'm pretty surprised you feel that way. I mean yea , my sundara's definitely not close to my audeze lcdx but I find the sundara's really good with these genre's paired with the magni hersey and schiit modi 3E
AKG 702 👌
So what budget solid state/tube amps would you recommend for the hd 600s? I have a topping L30 with an smsl 10th mk2 dac, i'm not sure if this is good enough to bring the hd600s to life.
I’d throw something with tubes at it. You could try something like the Vali 2 or mt602. My favorite amp with the 6xx was the little dot mkii. You may want to go check that review out.
No hi & no lows, must be Sen...🤣😂
until you hear HD800... all highs no lows.
Fist time here, kinda lost half way thru…
Would you mind elaborating for me a little bit.
@@MrAyrit could be the case with many new audiophiles, we would get lost in the terminology where for a novice wouldn't know say timbre or what imaging would mean...currently even i am learning said terminologies and indeed it is a mouthful. I am coming from a background of building my own computer, made a custom keyboard and now dipping my toes in the world of sound.
Currently i am checking out the hd600 cause of the reputation it has
Do you like 660s over these?
Yes, I do.
@@MrAyrit what about the DT 1990 vs HD 660s?
If it matters i have , HD 600 , 650,660s and Sundara . I like all of them . HD600 are the Vocals Kings and a bit forward, HD650 are the SMoothness Kings (veil), and HD660s have something of them both , but with something that others dont and this is SPEED and Imaging , HD660s image is even better than Sundara for sure. SUndara on the other hand are Not natural like HD6 line , they are more Excitement Headphones amazing separation better soundstage for sure ( if u like biger soundstage ) . In my Opinion if u want 2 Headphones only then HD660s + Sundara is all u need , u have everything with those . Oh HD560s are also great if u dont have Good equipment .
If you bought Sundara you can try to listen the HD600 just to check.
But if you bought the HD600, please NEVER try to listen to the Sundara or you will lose appetite on that trash Sennheiser! hahaha!
Sundara is great... while it lasts.
HD600 is so trash, I just don't get it. Unless you tube the crap outta them, they're not worth it.
Agreed
I have only used the HD600 with Jotunheim 1 with a dac. I also tried the HD650, Phillips Fidelio X2, HD599, Audio technica 700, a Beyerdynamic, but i dont remember which one, when i bought the hd600 and the hd650 i was decideing between the two, HD600 was the favorit, i also kept the Fidelio X2, returned the rest, but the intimate vocals that the HD600 brings is quite something else. My newest headset now is the Audeze Maxwell, they are great, but they don't deliver the intimate vocals of the HD600 paired with jotunheim, unfortunatley the dac broke on the jotunheim, so will either get it fixed or buy a seperate balanced dac, so i havent been able to compare the two other than from what i remember.
@@JanXXVI The hd600's sounded terrible to me. It's soundstage was narrow and it had over emphasized upper mids which came across as shouty and fatiguing.
@@johenkay1129 The soundstage is narrow, thats why i have the Fidelio x2 to compliment it. If i wanted more soundstage and bass i used the Fidelio, but if i wanted to listened to great vocals the HD600 was the way to go, and no other headphones have moved me like HD600 with the Jotunheim. Granted i havent listen to a lot of really expensive headphones, as i cant afford them, i do plan to go to a hifi shop soon and hopefully listend to the Sundara, Lcd X and Lcd 2c. The upper mids don't bother me personally, but i get that for some they do, so some eq tuning might be in order. Im looking forward to fixing the dac in the jotunheim, get new pads on the HD600 as they are very worn, and compare them and the fidelio to audeze maxwell.
@@JanXXVII have the fidelio x2, is it worth getting Sundara or 600 or 660? Or stick with what works?