I wish more reviewers expressed sound quality with songs in mind far more often. So much easier to relate. Good work! Also, almost no one covers how to compensate with EQ - its a easy way to compensate with low cost cans. Very helpful.
According to this review, if you listen to all sort sof music, let alone also to speech, you will need to get one of each of these Philips jobs and do a constant switcheroo job on them depending on the genre you are trying to listen to. Krazy.
I love my 9500's. They are so light so it feels like you aren't even wearing headphones. Earpads don't bother me at all. I can wear them for hours at a time with no issues.
Such a perfect review. These are so similar I had no idea what to get but your concise and descriptive language gave me the exact information I needed without any filler. Keep up the good work.
Great review! I put my credit card away before plunking down a "steal" on the SHP9600's. The Fidelio X2HR are the best of the bunch, they are on my head right now. The SHP9500's will remain in my collection as I see No, 0, Nada, Nix to Upgrade? to the SHP9600. Overall, at 4:23 in the morning, great review!
Excellent review. I have the Fidelio x2hr and I have to say they have a really wide soundstage. The sound is very fun and dynamic, maybe a little dark. Great for watching movies. Great headphone.
after spending all weekend watching headphones review i encountered your channel and you make the best headphones reviews, period. much better than more known channels , keep it up !!
What a fantastic video. I can perfectly imagine how these headphones sound from your description. Was thinking of getting the X2HRs as an upgrade for the 9500s, but it really doesn't feel like a significant upgrade considering my listening tastes. I do listen to electronic music once in a while and do wish for a more "fun" sound when doing so, but I can live with the 9500s specially for the price.
The X2 is simply the best pair of headphones for movies. They are so much fun! Whenever I wanna watch a movie in the middle of the night, the Fidelio is what's going on my head. I also have the 9500s but I haven't found a use for them. Maybe audiobooks? I'm not into those so they are just not for me.
You are a really good reviewer. Fantastic vocabulary and concise descriptions allow me to imagine how the 9600 and Fidelio sound in comparison to my 9500. Will pull the trigger on the Fidelio!
Excellent video, but I couldn't possibly disagree more that the SHP9500 is superior to the other two for Classical music. The lack of bass in the 9500 makes the strings sound wispy and thin.
I have SHP9500 and Fidelio X2HR - SHP9500 = Nice treble and Soundstage // Bad low-bass response - Fidelio X2HR = Better bass and mids,,more comfortable // Treble peak at 9KHz
I have the 9500s and the X2HRs. I bought the 9600s and returned them the next day. I didn't like them at all. Everything about them felt meh. Phillips would do well to make the 9500s available again.
Excellent review man! After that think I'll go with the SHP9500 to have a taste of this cleaner, airy and more spacial sound for a change. Already have a pair which is more bassy, so the comparison was pretty helpful. 👊🎧
*Update* Just got a Sonata HD Pro dac and here I thought it wouldn't make a difference but it did, the sound is so much fuller now and has better imaging and sounstage.
Chuck, you still need to get your hands on a pair of 9500 "S" version (second) it drops the bass 6 Db's over versions 1 and 3. The only way to tell them apart is the box (green) vs 1,2 which is black. That's where the info is (on the box) that tells them apart. It makes a big difference. I did a test comparison between 2 and 3 and 2 can actualy give you sub bass. Look on eBay for a pair, they pop up from time to time.
I used to have a pair, but they didn't have the stock pads. They came with some no-name grey velour pads. Made the 9500 sound like overhyped v-shaped ass lol
Being a newbie to the audio game I thought I had to spend so much on outstanding headphones. I've purchased the Sundaras, K712 Pros, DT 770, 880, T60RP, etc... I can go on and on. The X2HRs are simply amazing for the price. At this point in the game they are all unique and different and they all sound good. The X2HRs are an excellent all around headphone. The bass is just beautiful. So many high end headphones lack quantity and quality bass. These are just perfect. They are on sale now and I have no reservations getting a second pair. I have my gaming headphones, my movie headphones, my fun headphones, but if you need one set than go with these. You will not be disappointed.
I also tried some of the headphones you mentioned, the Sundaras, AKG K712 Pros and HD560s. I still prefer the Fidelio and HD599 despite the fact that they cost less.
@@bladddddd I mean take it with a grain of salt bc I’m probably the only one who prefers HD599 over HD560s lol. Anyways, the HD560s sounded too flat for me, like they had no bass or bloom like the HD599, and the soundstage is slightly narrower.
My thought too, if you listen to many types of music, from Jazz to Rock to Blues to Funk to Chillhop and every fusion between those and watch movies, the X2HR are a great allrounder which never comes short nor excite too much.
Weird one. For instance, I had wanted to learn about earpad size differences between the three of them -- but nothing said. The X2HR seem to have a very small diameter earpad opening which is round (the human ear is not). So for that reason alone, it seems more like an on-ear device than an around-ear set of cans. Also, right now it is late July 2022, and some of these Philips headsets have been retired by the manufacturer.
Yep! Apply the EQ settings for the SHP9500 in this video. Install EqualizerAPO and the PEACE GUI. Folllow this: ruclips.net/video/doAjkiLIkKA/видео.html
@@chuckolatte600 Hey man, I just got around to installing EqualizerAPO and PEACE GUI, and I noticed that there was literally no difference when I tested it out. I made sure I wasn't deaf and changed literally every setting to see if I could spot any difference. It appears that not matter what I change in that software, my audio isn't actually changing. Any help?
@@erictran2286 Yeah, windows sometimes has that issue. Went through something similar myself a while back and felt completely stupid lol. All I can really suggest is for you to reinstall and make sure you gave it every permission it asks for when installing. LMK if the issues persist!
I feel like the 9600 would be the version for bass heads and people that like synthesized bass. When I listen to Infected Mushroom or other psytrance or electronica genre I always like more bass. Truth is I listen to that type of music 5% of the time and can't stand bass heavy headphones for anything with real instruments and vocals.
So I was listening to the Gambinho song on my Samson Sr850's, people say these headphones are a mess. But at 0:34 I could hear the pulsations of the bass, fairly well. And for someone without money for clinically approved headphones, I'd say the Samsons are pretty solid. Have you looked into them, if not a possible review/ comparison with headphones which cost about 3x more?
I got the SHP9600s for AUD $45 from someone who was selling it in a unboxed but brand new condition, they didn't want to deal with returning it to amazon. Can't get a better deal than that lol
For competitive FPS, the more reduced bass of the 9500 will let you hear details and footsteps a bit better. For single player AAA titles, the more dynamic v-shaped sound of the X2HR might sound a bit more exciting for action scenes and whatnot.
@@yuliusjrt9917 yeah I really am impressed by them. Incredible sound stage. Really nice bass. Not powerful just really nice. Great headphones for movies and boxsets.
@@MrPaulmc1981 hey there, are they comfortable enough for you? I'm thinking of getting it over the SHP9500 as well but the comfort level described in the video got me worried
hello I have an important question for your knowledge and ears. Which of these Philips headphones and/or any other headphone models would you recommend for music production, mixing and mastering. the genre is only rap/hiphop and I usually like opposite of v shaped headphones which makes me feel it helps for the clarity. I
What a great review, detailed and articulate. I'm looking for inexpensive cans for mixing/reference (expecially for bass), and I think its the 9500s...
Hi, thanks for the nice and helpful video. I am new to this, have been using my Sony WH-1000XM2 and AirPods Pro only, mainly for music and Videos. Apple’s new announcement of higher resolution music made me want to listen to better quality. Would the equalizers you mentioned in the comments work for IPad Pro and IPhone 12 PM? Also, Philips does not have a sound control app? When I check on the X2HR, there is an MB Quart MBX2BT Bluetooth attachment for it, would you recommend this too? Will I need a FiiO Q3 for this? Prices of the X2HR is 1 time more than the 9500
@@BillyKueekSG Yeah, although using a DAC/amp will improve your sound quality, I'd only recommend it if you're sitting down somewhere. Just my opinion, attaching a portable amp to a music player and doing the whole thing is just cumbersome
the x2hr build quality is an illusion because the cups are attached with cheap little plastic parts that easily break, the headband is also uncomfortable
@@chuckolatte600 thanks man. but I have read many posts (head-fi and reddit) that hifiman's quality control is questionable and customer service is unpleasant.
Ive tried them all and weirdly enough i prefer the 9600s the least. Unless im using poor amplification id rather not use them for how poorly they retrieve detail relative to the other two
My fidelios broke after i dropped them once from desk height :D one of the bolts holding one of the earcups just broke off. I loved them but they lasted 2 months before the drop
I need headphones for listening to a wide array of music genres. I am treble sensitive and wouldn't call myself a bass head. Which of these are the best for me? Right now I'm leaning the most towards the X2HR after hearing what you said about them.
Oh no. If you are treble sensitive, I'd avoid the X2HR. They probably feature the sharpest treble. Of course, they do also feature the best sound quality of the three. It sounds like the 9600 would work decently for you, but I'd personally rather pick one of the other two.
@@chuckolatte600 Is it possible for me to "get used to them". I don't think I'm completely sold on the 9600. Do you know any budget alternatives outside of the three? Thank you for responding btw.
great review as alwys i have question in my mind for a long time whats a deferent betwen dac inside of the portable player and desktop dac in terms of SQ for example some 100 usd desktop dac like modi 3 or topping e30 and some dap like fiio m9 or ibasso dx 160 imagine you have a headphone amp like magni 3 or topping a50s or ifi zen can and you need dac for it dose 100 dollor desktop dac sounds better with it than 200 dollor portable player dac with line out to the amp? if there is a defernt is it a large defrent or small?
congrats on this very informative review (!) , and thank you 🙂it was really helpful. I really liked how you gave examples of music fragments that you used with a time indication of these tracks.. so we know exactly what you were (or weren't) hearing with these headphones. this is exactly the kind of review of a headphone I was hoping to see.. much (MUCH) better than this z reviews guy who just sits there with his merchandise talking about himself and is downright terrible at being informative. Having said that, might I suggest something to perhaps improve your next videos? I actually watched this clip while listening to it with a headphone.. and it was clear that your voice went off center... a lot (!) left to right.. back and forth and it made you sound as if you were drunk and couldn't stand still haha.. maybe if you hear it with headphone you notice these things as well.. since there's not much else to focus on, it would have been better if you kept your voice centered in the stereo image. Just my 2 cents. @ 12:32 “The 9500's are best suited for acoustic tracks like rock, metal.. (??) ” .. ehrr.. :p Keep up the good work 🙂
The XM3 are better than the XM4 & XM5 Closed Back Headphones 🎧 just let you know if you were thinking on spent a lot on the XM5 just get the older XM3 they sound better.
so for metal Pantera Black Sabbath / rock Pink Floyd Led Zeppelin Joe Satriani / bass solos Pilichowski / female vocals like Sade or Jewel / based on your review, the 9500 should be the best choice? I love that open architecture but I often would need to workout or ride a bicycle and I would opt for the wireless version of the similar headphones. any advice on that? PS are the ear pads easy to be removed / replaced? I'm planning to replace them with the genuine cowhide leather version, which I would stitch myself to perfectly match the "canvas" (I live in tropics and the original canvas pads would soak the sweat like a sponge in minutes, especially during the workouts, but even while just chilling on the sofa)
I just bought the 9500 and am a little concerned about amplification and volume, will I be able to drive these using a phone or a laptop with no problems or low volume?
@@jesseolii Mmm depending on what phone, laptop and PC you have, your sound quality will vary a bit. Motherboard audio on your PC and laptop will be crappy in general, while some high-end phones do have pretty decent DACs. I do recommend you get an affordable DAC/amp for your laptop and PC just for cleanliness. Volume-wise, you should be totally fine with or without an amp in most cases.
Great review and comparison! Ok, I'm just getting into "high end" headphones and have the 9500's which I love. Now, there is a set of X2HR's available and a set of Hifiman HE400i's. I like EDM and metal/grunge. Would love to pick up both of course but must make a choice. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks mate.
I've never really heard the HE400i, but I can tell you the X2HR are quite impressive for their price point. Their v-shaped sound could be good for tracks like EDM and metal/grunge
@@ecstasy5317 Yea thanks...I will be looking for awhile..would be easier if its between the mainstream companies like Phillips, AKG, Sennheiser, Beyers (Though i want detachable cable) and maybe Hifiman since)...I've got a good eye on a AKG q701 for cheap which I heard can be bass modded or go for something like HD560s, HD58x or x2hr (but I think these have heavy boomy bass)..but yea..if you can get your mates for recommendations that would be great
@@jonop3810 Ok guy let's narrow the list down, I should have asked you this earlier, do plan on using an external headphone amplifier and are you into EQing, etc,? By the way I listen to similar music as you lol.👍
How do you set up EQ on them if you don’t have stationary amplifier system? Do they have app? As I know they don’t have Bluetooth. Can please explain? P.S. I have SHP600 on the way.
@@chuckolatte600 Thanks, although the guy is speaking alien English 😀 What are the all round setting for SHP600? I will mainly watch movies with that. Thanks for your answer.
I'd lean towards the X2HR, if not the SHP9500. X2HR gives you the louder rumble for footsteps and brings the high-end up a bit to hear finite details like leaves rustling, etc
I have the X2HR and 9500s. The 9500s are more airy and articulate. The X2HR's more powerful drivers caused me to have permanent tinnitus! Be careful with them!
Soo the 9600 are 86 bucks now should I buy it or wait to see if the fidelio 2xhr go to that price or 100 bucks? Because I am very sensitive to treble and sometimes hard bass too and I want a headphone that sounds really smooth without loosing detail tyat when I hear them I can relax while still having details and a really good open soundstage. The shp9600 really conviced me but I dont want sharp treble or hard bass I just want a balanced sound signature with enough vividness, life, detail and bass to enjoy. I will like a sound signature like fiil t1xs tws but in a big headphone , with big sounstage
If you like really warm bass and do not want to EQ, go for the SHP9600. If you prefer less warmth and more slam, wait for the Fidelio X2HR. Though I doubt they'll sell for anything less than $115
Its interesting because I have watch other reviews between the SHP9500 Vs the 9600 and they have said the 9600 has better overall sound quality. Not saying your opinion/review is invalid, but it all comes down to personal taste really
I own a lot of headphones and more times than not I end up picking up a Phillips headphone from my rack, just have to do some easy mods to Em. Not to mention that sound is subjective, what you like I may not and vis-versa.
![Eminem - Fuel (feat. JID) [Official Lyric Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/t5H_CewqpKA/mqdefault.jpg)
I wish more reviewers expressed sound quality with songs in mind far more often. So much easier to relate. Good work! Also, almost no one covers how to compensate with EQ - its a easy way to compensate with low cost cans. Very helpful.
According to this review, if you listen to all sort sof music, let alone also to speech, you will need to get one of each of these Philips jobs and do a constant switcheroo job on them depending on the genre you are trying to listen to. Krazy.
I love my 9500's. They are so light so it feels like you aren't even wearing headphones. Earpads don't bother me at all. I can wear them for hours at a time with no issues.
I like the bold channel indicators in the 9500 tho.
Such a perfect review. These are so similar I had no idea what to get but your concise and descriptive language gave me the exact information I needed without any filler. Keep up the good work.
Great review! I put my credit card away before plunking down a "steal" on the SHP9600's. The Fidelio X2HR are the best of the bunch, they are on my head right now. The SHP9500's will remain in my collection as I see No, 0, Nada, Nix to Upgrade? to the SHP9600. Overall, at 4:23 in the morning, great review!
How wide or big X2's soundstage is man? Let's say compared to HD598s?
Thanks for the review and EXTRA thanks for the EQ settings.
good talking voice, good explanation
First. 9500 24/7 :) Amazing headphones.
Great review. Just purchased 1st Gen 9500. Looking forward to the experience. Subscribed.
Excellent review.
I have the Fidelio x2hr and I have to say they have a really wide soundstage. The sound is very fun and dynamic, maybe a little dark. Great for watching movies. Great headphone.
Argeed
this is one of the best reviews I've ever seen in my life
after spending all weekend watching headphones review i encountered your channel and you make the best headphones reviews, period. much better than more known channels , keep it up !!
What a fantastic video. I can perfectly imagine how these headphones sound from your description. Was thinking of getting the X2HRs as an upgrade for the 9500s, but it really doesn't feel like a significant upgrade considering my listening tastes. I do listen to electronic music once in a while and do wish for a more "fun" sound when doing so, but I can live with the 9500s specially for the price.
Yeah, I'd probably wait for a more significant upgrade. Especially if selling to another person isn't such an easy thing in your area.
I have both,you need both,I buy mine used like new,way cheaper in the long run!
The X2 is simply the best pair of headphones for movies. They are so much fun! Whenever I wanna watch a movie in the middle of the night, the Fidelio is what's going on my head.
I also have the 9500s but I haven't found a use for them. Maybe audiobooks? I'm not into those so they are just not for me.
@Rockafettpappa how about 9600? cant even find 9500 where i am anymore
You're the man baby, I'm going for the Fidelio's. A couple of extra bucks and they seem like they'll last a while. Excellent job, take care.
You are a really good reviewer. Fantastic vocabulary and concise descriptions allow me to imagine how the 9600 and Fidelio sound in comparison to my 9500. Will pull the trigger on the Fidelio!
This video is exactly what I was looking for. TY for the comparison!
First time seeing your videos. You knocked it out of the park and answered all my questions. Thank you.
Got some 9600 recently, absolutely love them. They are so hard to find now, same as the 9500. Legendary status headphone, always selling out!! 🎉🎉🎉
Excellent video, but I couldn't possibly disagree more that the SHP9500 is superior to the other two for Classical music. The lack of bass in the 9500 makes the strings sound wispy and thin.
I think the 9500s look SO MUCH better, and the Fidelios are in between.
I have SHP9500 and Fidelio X2HR
- SHP9500 = Nice treble and Soundstage // Bad low-bass response
- Fidelio X2HR = Better bass and mids,,more comfortable // Treble peak at 9KHz
I have the 9500s and the X2HRs. I bought the 9600s and returned them the next day. I didn't like them at all. Everything about them felt meh.
Phillips would do well to make the 9500s available again.
Exactly! Bass maniacs should just use EQ.
Excellent review man! After that think I'll go with the SHP9500 to have a taste of this cleaner, airy and more spacial sound for a change. Already have a pair which is more bassy, so the comparison was pretty helpful. 👊🎧
Just got the 9500 and the sound is great, I used a USB C dac with a realtek alc5686 chip and it boosted the sound range even at flat EQ.
*Update*
Just got a Sonata HD Pro dac and here I thought it wouldn't make a difference but it did, the sound is so much fuller now and has better imaging and sounstage.
@@Benri05 i also have Alc5686 dongle. I am looking to upgrade soon. Is Sonata HD Pro considered an upgrade or side grade?
@@fzakwan it's an upgrade over my alc5686, the sound is more neutral now with fuller mids, the alc5696 tends to be quite sibilant in the treble.
@@fzakwan I've had issues with the HD pro's jack. I'd recommend you checking the SONATA BHD
@@yuunatica9136 oh ok. U know any website that carries Sonata product that able ship internationally/to Malaysia?
Chuck, you still need to get your hands on a pair of 9500 "S" version (second) it drops the bass 6 Db's over versions 1 and 3. The only way to tell them apart is the box (green) vs 1,2 which is black. That's where the info is (on the box) that tells them apart. It makes a big difference. I did a test comparison between 2 and 3 and 2 can actualy give you sub bass. Look on eBay for a pair, they pop up from time to time.
I used to have a pair, but they didn't have the stock pads. They came with some no-name grey velour pads. Made the 9500 sound like overhyped v-shaped ass lol
The Fidelios do not come with a bag or sleeve type deal.
Being a newbie to the audio game I thought I had to spend so much on outstanding headphones. I've purchased the Sundaras, K712 Pros, DT 770, 880, T60RP, etc... I can go on and on. The X2HRs are simply amazing for the price. At this point in the game they are all unique and different and they all sound good. The X2HRs are an excellent all around headphone. The bass is just beautiful. So many high end headphones lack quantity and quality bass. These are just perfect. They are on sale now and I have no reservations getting a second pair. I have my gaming headphones, my movie headphones, my fun headphones, but if you need one set than go with these. You will not be disappointed.
I also tried some of the headphones you mentioned, the Sundaras, AKG K712 Pros and HD560s. I still prefer the Fidelio and HD599 despite the fact that they cost less.
@@kabloom6776 hey there - what didn't you like about the HD560s? And you prefer the HD599 over them?
@@bladddddd I mean take it with a grain of salt bc I’m probably the only one who prefers HD599 over HD560s lol. Anyways, the HD560s sounded too flat for me, like they had no bass or bloom like the HD599, and the soundstage is slightly narrower.
@@kabloom6776 thanks for this!
My thought too, if you listen to many types of music, from Jazz to Rock to Blues to Funk to Chillhop and every fusion between those and watch movies, the X2HR are a great allrounder which never comes short nor excite too much.
great comparison, I was always curious about these set of phones
Best review I've seen regarding these headsets 👍
We NEED a Tier list video from you. 😃 This video makes it sound like you like the shp9600. Haha
Pros and Cons, honestly lol. I can't listen to them w/o EQ, but the use of EQ really helps them out a bit.
Weird one. For instance, I had wanted to learn about earpad size differences between the three of them -- but nothing said. The X2HR seem to have a very small diameter earpad opening which is round (the human ear is not). So for that reason alone, it seems more like an on-ear device than an around-ear set of cans. Also, right now it is late July 2022, and some of these Philips headsets have been retired by the manufacturer.
Awesome detailed video! I’m new to this audiophile stuff and I was told EQing my shp9500 can make a huge difference! Any advice?
Yep! Apply the EQ settings for the SHP9500 in this video. Install EqualizerAPO and the PEACE GUI. Folllow this: ruclips.net/video/doAjkiLIkKA/видео.html
@@chuckolatte600 Thanks a lot man! I’ll test it out! By the way has anyone told you that you sound like khan academy ? xD
@@erictran2286 You'd be the first, haha. Thanks, glad it helped!
@@chuckolatte600 Hey man, I just got around to installing EqualizerAPO and PEACE GUI, and I noticed that there was literally no difference when I tested it out. I made sure I wasn't deaf and changed literally every setting to see if I could spot any difference. It appears that not matter what I change in that software, my audio isn't actually changing. Any help?
@@erictran2286 Yeah, windows sometimes has that issue. Went through something similar myself a while back and felt completely stupid lol. All I can really suggest is for you to reinstall and make sure you gave it every permission it asks for when installing. LMK if the issues persist!
The Fidelio are excellent headphones! Have enjoyed mine for years
I feel like the 9600 would be the version for bass heads and people that like synthesized bass. When I listen to Infected Mushroom or other psytrance or electronica genre I always like more bass. Truth is I listen to that type of music 5% of the time and can't stand bass heavy headphones for anything with real instruments and vocals.
Yeah, that type of sound signature is a real double-edged sword lol
Which would you recommend for podcasts and TV series?
Insta-sub when you whipped out the Zealots of Stockholm. Amazing album
What a great review, very well explained with clear examples. Thank you!
So I was listening to the Gambinho song on my Samson Sr850's, people say these headphones are a mess.
But at 0:34 I could hear the pulsations of the bass, fairly well.
And for someone without money for clinically approved headphones, I'd say the Samsons are pretty solid. Have you looked into them, if not a possible review/ comparison with headphones which cost about 3x more?
I got the SHP9600s for AUD $45 from someone who was selling it in a unboxed but brand new condition, they didn't want to deal with returning it to amazon. Can't get a better deal than that lol
Hi! I’m planning to buy headphones for gaming, and I’m not sure what to choose ;/ Which would be the best for gaming in your opinion: Fidelio or 9500?
For competitive FPS, the more reduced bass of the 9500 will let you hear details and footsteps a bit better. For single player AAA titles, the more dynamic v-shaped sound of the X2HR might sound a bit more exciting for action scenes and whatnot.
I run the X2HR straight into Iphone with Apple dongle. Plenty of volume. Would getting one of the new portable dac/amps improve anything?
Got my fidelios coming tomorrow. Feel like a kid at Xmas 😂
Have you tried them yet? What do you think about them? I am planning on getting the fideliox2hr too but can’t decide over the shp9500.
@@yuliusjrt9917 yeah I really am impressed by them. Incredible sound stage. Really nice bass. Not powerful just really nice. Great headphones for movies and boxsets.
@@MrPaulmc1981 thanks for the answer, will definitely consider them
@@MrPaulmc1981 hey there, are they comfortable enough for you? I'm thinking of getting it over the SHP9500 as well but the comfort level described in the video got me worried
@@bladddddd they are comfortable but there are better pads for them. They are great for movies and gaming but not good with EDM
hello I have an important question for your knowledge and ears. Which of these Philips headphones and/or any other headphone models would you recommend for music production, mixing and mastering. the genre is only rap/hiphop and I usually like opposite of v shaped headphones which makes me feel it helps for the clarity. I
SHP9500 for sure
Most likely 9500 since they seemed to be put in the same pool as the HD600, so if you’re going for a balanced headphone this one is it
What a great review, detailed and articulate. I'm looking for inexpensive cans for mixing/reference (expecially for bass), and I think its the 9500s...
Hi, thanks for the nice and helpful video. I am new to this, have been using my Sony WH-1000XM2 and AirPods Pro only, mainly for music and Videos. Apple’s new announcement of higher resolution music made me want to listen to better quality. Would the equalizers you mentioned in the comments work for IPad Pro and IPhone 12 PM? Also, Philips does not have a sound control app? When I check on the X2HR, there is an MB Quart MBX2BT Bluetooth attachment for it, would you recommend this too? Will I need a FiiO Q3 for this? Prices of the X2HR is 1 time more than the 9500
Hi! the EqualizerAPO app doesn't work on ipad or iphone OS. Unfortunately, a philips sound app wouldn't work with the X2HR
@@chuckolatte600, thank you for replying. Will I need a FiiO Q3 for the X2HR? Am also thinking of possibly the HD58X
@@BillyKueekSG Yeah, although using a DAC/amp will improve your sound quality, I'd only recommend it if you're sitting down somewhere. Just my opinion, attaching a portable amp to a music player and doing the whole thing is just cumbersome
@@chuckolatte600, thank you roe replying.
the x2hr build quality is an illusion because the cups are attached with cheap little plastic parts that easily break, the headband is also uncomfortable
Very nice content. Got a subscriber.
fidelio x2hr is expensive here, is it better to just go with the Sennheiser HD560s instead?
Comfort for the win. Going with the 9600s
how are they?
@@moltified Love them. Comfort is still there just a slightly different feel than the 9500. Paired it with the Soundblaster GX6
@@Valkrill which do you think has more bass and is softer?
@@moltified only use for gaming and I don't like bass so I don't pay attention. Mainly care about comfort and accuracy of the game sound.
@@Valkrill How were the 9500 and the 9600, each individually for gaming?
Which is more gremlinish?
Great review!
great, going to get 9500 for classical music. BTW for under 300 USD range, what's the best headphone for classical music? thanks
If you can find a pre-owned Hifiman Sundara, that would be your bread and butter
@@chuckolatte600 thanks man. but I have read many posts (head-fi and reddit) that hifiman's quality control is questionable and customer service is unpleasant.
@@blueXtwoplustwo mmm, it used to be like that but they've improved by QUITE a bit IMO
Which will be the best for gaming? CSGO, valorant
Just got mine and i luv em. Light, very comfy. Has plenty of bass. Overall sound is rich and spacious. Great for movies.
So the Fidelio's are the best?
Ive tried them all and weirdly enough i prefer the 9600s the least. Unless im using poor amplification id rather not use them for how poorly they retrieve detail relative to the other two
Yep. Agree with you. Not my cuppa tea
My fidelios broke after i dropped them once from desk height :D one of the bolts holding one of the earcups just broke off. I loved them but they lasted 2 months before the drop
I need headphones for listening to a wide array of music genres. I am treble sensitive and wouldn't call myself a bass head. Which of these are the best for me?
Right now I'm leaning the most towards the X2HR after hearing what you said about them.
Oh no. If you are treble sensitive, I'd avoid the X2HR. They probably feature the sharpest treble. Of course, they do also feature the best sound quality of the three.
It sounds like the 9600 would work decently for you, but I'd personally rather pick one of the other two.
@@chuckolatte600 Is it possible for me to "get used to them". I don't think I'm completely sold on the 9600. Do you know any budget alternatives outside of the three?
Thank you for responding btw.
@@youtubeuserdan4017 I also reviewed the Sivga series HPs (found on my channel). I still prefer the 9500 over the 9600 though.
Which would you suggest for movie watching?
I'd probably go with X2HR>9600>9500
great review as alwys
i have question in my mind for a long time
whats a deferent betwen dac inside of the portable player and desktop dac in terms of SQ
for example some 100 usd desktop dac like modi 3 or topping e30
and some dap like fiio m9 or ibasso dx 160
imagine you have a headphone amp like magni 3 or topping a50s or ifi zen can
and you need dac for it
dose 100 dollor desktop dac sounds better with it than 200 dollor portable player dac with line out to the amp?
if there is a defernt is it a large defrent or small?
I'd say that apart from where it derives power from, it's mostly about what chip it is using and what in/outs it offers.
congrats on this very informative review (!) , and thank you 🙂it was really helpful.
I really liked how you gave examples of music fragments that you used with a time indication of these tracks.. so we know exactly what you were (or weren't) hearing with these headphones.
this is exactly the kind of review of a headphone I was hoping to see.. much (MUCH) better than this z reviews guy who just sits there with his merchandise talking about himself and is downright terrible at being informative.
Having said that, might I suggest something to perhaps improve your next videos?
I actually watched this clip while listening to it with a headphone.. and it was clear that your voice went off center... a lot (!) left to right.. back and forth and it made you sound as if you were drunk and couldn't stand still haha.. maybe if you hear it with headphone you notice these things as well.. since there's not much else to focus on, it would have been better if you kept your voice centered in the stereo image. Just my 2 cents.
@ 12:32 “The 9500's are best suited for acoustic tracks like rock, metal.. (??) ” .. ehrr.. :p
Keep up the good work 🙂
For you, which is better for films?
Probably the X2HR because of the dynamism and more "aggressive" sound for action films. Wider soundstage also makes scary movies scarier lol
The XM3 are better than the XM4 & XM5 Closed Back Headphones 🎧 just let you know if you were thinking on spent a lot on the XM5 just get the older XM3 they sound better.
so if i want to find replacement earpads for shp9600 i can buy one of the shp9500 right? cause they're the same size?
yep
so for metal Pantera Black Sabbath / rock Pink Floyd Led Zeppelin Joe Satriani / bass solos Pilichowski / female vocals like Sade or Jewel /
based on your review, the 9500 should be the best choice?
I love that open architecture but I often would need to workout or ride a bicycle and I would opt for the wireless version of the similar headphones.
any advice on that?
PS
are the ear pads easy to be removed / replaced?
I'm planning to replace them with the genuine cowhide leather version, which I would stitch myself to perfectly match the "canvas" (I live in tropics and the original canvas pads would soak the sweat like a sponge in minutes, especially during the workouts, but even while just chilling on the sofa)
I do believe the 9500 would be the better choice for rock/metal. Finding a wireless alternative will be tough though, haha
I just bought the 9500 and am a little concerned about amplification and volume, will I be able to drive these using a phone or a laptop with no problems or low volume?
100% yes. If your gonna use this with your phone I’d recommend getting a shorter 3.5 mm cable bc the 9500 stock cable is long asf.
@@yerpster I'm going to use them with my laptop and pc, but I want to be able to just connect them to my phone and have the same sound quality
@@jesseolii Mmm depending on what phone, laptop and PC you have, your sound quality will vary a bit. Motherboard audio on your PC and laptop will be crappy in general, while some high-end phones do have pretty decent DACs.
I do recommend you get an affordable DAC/amp for your laptop and PC just for cleanliness. Volume-wise, you should be totally fine with or without an amp in most cases.
Great review and comparison! Ok, I'm just getting into "high end" headphones and have the 9500's which I love. Now, there is a set of X2HR's available and a set of Hifiman HE400i's. I like EDM and metal/grunge. Would love to pick up both of course but must make a choice. Your thoughts would be greatly appreciated. Thanks mate.
I've never really heard the HE400i, but I can tell you the X2HR are quite impressive for their price point. Their v-shaped sound could be good for tracks like EDM and metal/grunge
@@chuckolatte600 ok cool. Thanks man. :)
nice. thx a lot!
What would be the best open backs in the ~$200-300 range for EDM/Electronic pop overall (including outside this list)?
Ok I know you said 200-300 but I’m gonna say go with some dt990s for sub 200 and then pad swap them with some leather pads for max bass.
@@ecstasy5317 Sadly i dont think I can get these shipped to Australia :( I am currently using shp9500 and wish it had a little bit more bass
@@yerpster Was thinking about getting these but I kinda want a detachable cable for my headphones
@@ecstasy5317 Yea thanks...I will be looking for awhile..would be easier if its between the mainstream companies like Phillips, AKG, Sennheiser, Beyers (Though i want detachable cable) and maybe Hifiman since)...I've got a good eye on a AKG q701 for cheap which I heard can be bass modded or go for something like HD560s, HD58x or x2hr (but I think these have heavy boomy bass)..but yea..if you can get your mates for recommendations that would be great
@@jonop3810 Ok guy let's narrow the list down, I should have asked you this earlier, do plan on using an external headphone amplifier and are you into EQing, etc,? By the way I listen to similar music as you lol.👍
I don’t like the way the 9600 looks.
Thank you very much
What about x1s? Worth it?
Haven't tried them, sorry
So the Fidelio is the best of the three :P
How do you set up EQ on them if you don’t have stationary amplifier system? Do they have app? As I know they don’t have Bluetooth.
Can please explain?
P.S. I have SHP600 on the way.
It's a program and a UI. Follow this: ruclips.net/video/doAjkiLIkKA/видео.html
@@chuckolatte600 Thanks, although the guy is speaking alien English 😀
What are the all round setting for SHP600? I will mainly watch movies with that. Thanks for your answer.
@@Katalokus 11:18 in this video
@@Katalokus Qaqa Azərbaycancanlısan? Mən də eynisini sifariş vermişəm 😂
@@galacticnomad9331
Hee, qardash. Ela bir shey olmalidir. Gelsin, chixsin inshallah.
I have Phillips shp9500 and i only use it for my fps games on Xbox one
Do i need to upgrade it ?
Any advice ???
If you're tired of them and have the extra cash to get something better, I'd say so yeah
@@chuckolatte600 is the x2hr better than the 9500 for competitive fps games? I’ve heard people saying that the x2’s are bad for competitive
and if it is, can a simple EQ change fix it? I like to listen to music but also competitive at the same time
@@scooter-wp6fh Mmm I don't see why they would be bad for gaming. What do they say?
which one of the 3 are the best for gaming milsim shooters like Squad, Dayz, Tarkov?
I'd lean towards the X2HR, if not the SHP9500. X2HR gives you the louder rumble for footsteps and brings the high-end up a bit to hear finite details like leaves rustling, etc
@@chuckolatte600 right now i am between the Phillips shp9500/x2 and the Sennheiser HD560S..not sure what to pick 🤔
12:52
So basically, don’t buy the SHP9600?
It's more of a "don't" than a "do," but yes. It's not that they're terrible, but the other two simply beat its sound signature IMO
Oh God, great talk but still didn't get which I may get for using with my Piano Keyboard ?
which one are the most fun ones for listening to music ?
"fun?" Those would be the fidelio X2HR
I have the X2HR and 9500s. The 9500s are more airy and articulate. The X2HR's more powerful drivers caused me to have permanent tinnitus! Be careful with them!
Control your volume mate.
Soo the 9600 are 86 bucks now should I buy it or wait to see if the fidelio 2xhr go to that price or 100 bucks? Because I am very sensitive to treble and sometimes hard bass too and I want a headphone that sounds really smooth without loosing detail tyat when I hear them I can relax while still having details and a really good open soundstage. The shp9600 really conviced me but I dont want sharp treble or hard bass I just want a balanced sound signature with enough vividness, life, detail and bass to enjoy. I will like a sound signature like fiil t1xs tws but in a big headphone , with big sounstage
If you like really warm bass and do not want to EQ, go for the SHP9600. If you prefer less warmth and more slam, wait for the Fidelio X2HR. Though I doubt they'll sell for anything less than $115
@@chuckolatte600 ohh ok nice thanks for the recommendation👍
@@chuckolatte600 nice video btw really like it and I hope you blow up with views at some point in this year
Its interesting because I have watch other reviews between the SHP9500 Vs the 9600 and they have said the 9600 has better overall sound quality. Not saying your opinion/review is invalid, but it all comes down to personal taste really
Sound quality, yes. Sound signature, no. Unfortunate truth
@@chuckolatte600 well that is still debatable though. Sound signature is a matter of taste at this price point.
Cheers
I have the X2HR and they didn't come with a pouch.
neither did mine
Let's goooo! Love hotel California!
Is this what I think it is? 01:23 😔
nice Speedmaster! ;)
AYYYY
X2HR does not ship with a case or pouch. Very bare bones.
You surely sound like Randy Blythe of Lamb of God 🤨
x2hr eats those as breakfast
fidelio have zero bass
coom-pair-ison.
Your voice panning around is awful
Yeah, still working on how to NOT do binaural, haha.
Those headphones look way better them they sound. Any Beyer, Sennheiser or AKG beat them easily.
I own a lot of headphones and more times than not I end up picking up a Phillips headphone from my rack, just have to do some easy mods to Em. Not to mention that sound is subjective, what you like I may not and vis-versa.
Def not true. These headphones are good and don't talk like the companies you mentioned haven't release worse headphones
AKG is dead af tho.
Ah yes, my favorite.
P o l e o f 🅱️ o r r i d g e