Field Test · Studio Gear Review
HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed Back
In-depth technical analysis of HIFIMAN’s closed-back magnetostatic headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Circumaural
- Open
- Magnetostatic
- Frequency range: 6 – 50,000 Hz
- Impedance: 20 Ohm
- Sound pressure level: 98 dB
- Driver: Stealth magnets & NEO Supernano diaphragm
- Two-sided cable guide
- Cable length: 1.5 m
- Cable interchangeable
- Weight: 432 g
- Incl. 1.5 m cable with 3.5 mm stereo mini jack and 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm jack adapter
Studio Log
| Available since | April 2023 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 563578 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | CLosed Back |
| Impedance | 20 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 6 Hz – 50000 Hz |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black, Brown |
| Sensitivity | 98 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Jack, mini-jack |
| Weight | 432 g |
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Customer Review Summary
Introduction to the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed Back
The HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed Back, launched in April 2023, is HIFIMAN’s entry into closed-back planar magnetic headphones designed for over-ear use. Priced at £122, it aims to deliver a detailed audio experience traditionally found in higher-end models. It offers circumaural coverage with a system based on stealth magnets and a NEO Supernano diaphragm. The headphones weigh 432 grams, include a 1.5-metre replaceable cable with both 3.5 mm stereo mini-jack and 6.3 mm adapter, and come in black or brown finish.
Technical Specifications
- Impedance: 20 Ohms, suitable for use with mobile devices and dedicated headphone amplifiers
- Frequency Range: 6 Hz to 50,000 Hz, covering a broad spectrum beyond standard human hearing
- Sensitivity: 98 dB, indicating moderate efficiency
- Design: Closed-back circumaural, for passive noise isolation and focused listening
- Cable: Two-sided guide, interchangeable, 1.5 m length with jack connectors
- Driver Type: Magnetostatic, planar magnetic technology for low distortion and fast transient response
Sound Quality and Performance
User feedback points out the SUNDARA Closed Back’s analytical sound profile. The headphones emphasise detail and clarity over warmth or musicality, making them suitable for mixing and mastering scenarios where precision is vital. The usage of planar magnetic drivers contributes to a flat response with controlled bass and clean mids. The bass is described as planar and well-defined but only slightly overemphasised, avoiding the typical excessive boominess found on some closed-back models.
The headphones do require careful equaliser adjustment for optimal results. A popular approach involves using EQ profiles such as those from oratory1990, which compensate for dips and peaks mainly in the bass and treble regions. Burn-in periods of up to 200 hours are also reported to soften initially harsh high frequencies and smooth out resonances around 300 Hz.
In comparison with contemporaries like the Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X or Audio-Technica ATH-R70x, the SUNDARA Closed Back emerges with superior detail and soundstage for a closed-back design, albeit not matching the tonal balance of some AKG models designed around the Harman target curve.
Comfort and Build Quality
At 432 grams, the headphones sit heavier than typical offerings but balance their weight well with a comfortable headband and plush earpads. Despite this comfort, some users note slight clamping pressure after extended use. The cable supplied suffers from microphonics, transmitting cable noise through the plastic frame, a drawback not as pronounced with the open-back SUNDARA version.
The construction quality is robust with a pleasing aesthetic, featuring subtle brown or black finishes and wood accents that blend well into modern audio setups. The interchangeable cable system ensures longevity and flexibility, catering to users who might want alternate cable lengths or connectors.
Limitations and Considerations
- Noise isolation is modest, more akin to an open-back design, limiting suitability for noisy environments
- Some users experience vocal tonal inaccuracies without customised EQ adjustments
- Cable microphonics may disturb users sensitive to mechanical noise transmission
- Not ideal for tracking or recording due to significant sound bleed
- Additional EQ or filtering is recommended to tame high-frequency peaks and midrange bumps
Conclusion
The HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed Back offers strong value at £122, delivering a detailed and spacious soundstage unusual for closed-back planar magnetic headphones at this price level. It suits professionals and audiophiles who prioritise analytical listening and are willing to invest time in EQ calibration and burn-in. While not perfect, particularly in isolation and cable handling, it is a competitive option for users needing detail and precision in a relatively portable closed-back form.
