Hifiman
HE400SE
Best open-back headphones for budget-conscious audiophiles seeking detailed, immersive sound.
Experience pure audio with the HIFIMAN HE400se open-back planar headphones. Engineered with innovative Stealth Magnets, they minimize distortion for unparalleled clarity and detail. The planar magnetic drivers ensure accurate sound reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum. Designed for comfort, the lightweight, adjustable headband allows for hours of immersive listening, even with portable devices thanks to their high sensitivity. Enhanced durability comes from a robust driver casing and a reliable dual-sided 3.5mm cable, making these headphones a superior choice for detailed sound.
$109.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
74
/ 6142
#74 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
-81%
Below average
Driver Type
Planar Magnetic
/ Planar Magnetic
Who it's for
- Budget-conscious enthusiasts wanting high-fidelity planar magnetic sound
- Audiophiles seeking precise instrument detail and crisp treble performance
- Listeners who prefer an immersive, spacious, and airy soundstage
Who should skip it
- Commuters or office workers needing privacy and noise isolation
- Users without a dedicated amplifier for driving demanding headphones
- Buyers prioritizing premium, robust materials over lightweight plastic construction
Performance breakdown
Soundstage Clarity
Planar drivers deliver exceptional separation and a wide, immersive soundstage.
Driveability
High sensitivity allows portable devices to reach respectable volume levels easily.
Long-term Comfort
Lightweight construction makes these ideal for extended, fatigue-free listening sessions.
Build Robustness
Functional design prioritizes internal driver protection over premium material aesthetics.
Frequency Accuracy
Stealth Magnet technology minimizes distortion for a clean, neutral sonic profile.
Connectivity Versatility
Standard 3.5mm and 6.35mm support ensures compatibility with most audio setups.
Key Specs
Driver Type
Planar Magnetic
Frequency Response
20Hz-20kHz
Impedance
25 Ohms
Sensitivity
91dB
Weight
390g
Connectivity
3.5mm cable, 6.35mm adapter
Audio Output
Stereo
Power Source
Passive
Features
- Open-back planar design for lower distortion
- Acoustically Invisible Stealth Magnets for pure audio
- High sensitivity for portable hi-res audio players
- Lightweight, adjustable headband for extended comfort
- Durable casing protects internal drivers
- Includes 3.5mm cable and 6.35mm adapter
- Delivers detailed and immersive sound quality
- Ergonomic over-ear design for long sessions
What customers say
The Hifiman HE400SE earns high praise as an exceptional value in entry level planar magnetic headphones. Customers consistently highlight its expansive soundstage and impressive detail retrieval, offering an immersive listening experience. The sound signature features tight, articulate bass and clear mids. While some note slight treble brightness, the overall sonic performance significantly exceeds expectations for the price. Comfort is generally good due to plush earcups suitable for long sessions. Users accept the utilitarian build as a necessary trade-off for the unparalleled sound quality. This model is widely regarded as the perfect gateway into high-end planar audio, delivering performance that punches well above its weight class.
Know before you buy
Yes, the HE400se features high sensitivity, which allows them to be driven by most portable devices like smartphones, tablets, and laptops without needing a dedicated amplifier.
The open-back design allows sound to pass through the ear cups, creating a wider, more natural soundstage that mimics the feeling of listening to speakers in a room. However, keep in mind that this design does not block outside noise, and sound will leak out to those nearby.
Yes, the HE400se is designed with an ergonomic over-ear fit and a lightweight, adjustable headband specifically for extended use. The planar magnetic drivers are housed in a durable casing that keeps the overall weight manageable for hours of wear.
The headphones use a dual-sided 3.5mm cable connection. The package also includes a 6.35mm adapter, making them compatible with both standard portable devices and home audio equipment.
Planar magnetic drivers use a thin, flexible diaphragm suspended between magnets to produce sound. This technology typically results in lower distortion and faster, more accurate transient response compared to traditional dynamic drivers.
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