The HIFIMAN HE400SE is a budget-friendly, open-back planar magnetic headphone that delivers stunning audiophile-grade sound. Designed for music enthusiasts, gamers, and critical listeners, it offers a wide soundstage, exceptional clarity, and premium build. all at an accessible price point.
Quick Summary
If you’ve been searching for audiophile-grade headphones that won’t break the bank, the HIFIMAN HE400SE might just be your dream come true. These open-back, planar magnetic headphones bring a taste of high-end audio performance to an affordable price bracket, delivering sound quality that punches far above their price point. With stealth magnet technology, exceptional build quality, and comfort to match, this model satisfies even the most discerning listeners.
Despite being labeled as the “Non-Stealth Version,” this particular unit still performs incredibly well, especially when paired with a decent DAC or amplifier. Whether you’re a music enthusiast, a gamer seeking immersive audio, or a professional looking for critical listening accuracy, the HE400SE offers a compelling proposition. Let’s explore everything that makes these headphones a must-have.
Design and Build Quality
The HIFIMAN HE400SE impresses right out of the box with its robust construction. The headphones feature a minimalist yet premium design composed of lightweight ABS plastic and solid metal yokes. The open-back earcups are beautifully designed to reduce resonance, enhancing clarity and soundstage. Everything about the construction feels thoughtfully engineered. sturdy enough to withstand daily use, yet light enough to remain portable.
Even the headband adjustment sliders feel secure and refined. Nothing about the HE400SE feels cheap or flimsy despite its attractive price. This is a headphone made with care, designed to perform and last.
Comfort for Long Listening Sessions
One of the highlights of the HE400SE is its comfort. The plush ear pads fully encompass the ears without applying excessive pressure, making them ideal for extended listening sessions. The pressure distribution is balanced, and the headband cushioning is sufficient to prevent fatigue.
Moreover, the open-back design allows airflow, reducing heat build-up during long sessions. Whether you’re gaming for hours or losing yourself in an orchestral soundtrack, these headphones remain blissfully comfortable.
Sound Performance and Audio Signature
Where the HE400SE truly shines is in its sound quality. Thanks to planar magnetic drivers, it delivers a clean, fast, and articulate sound across the spectrum. The bass is tight and controlled, not bloated, making it perfect for genres like jazz, classical, and progressive rock. The midrange is lush and detailed, highlighting vocals and instruments with astonishing clarity.
But it’s the treble and soundstage that steal the show. The highs are crisp without being harsh, and the soundstage is expansive, offering a three-dimensional listening experience. Instrument separation is top-tier, making these headphones perfect for picking apart complex compositions.
Planar Magnetic Technology Explained
Planar magnetic drivers differ from traditional dynamic drivers in that they use a large, thin diaphragm with magnets on both sides. This results in better transient response, lower distortion, and more accurate sound reproduction.
HIFIMAN, a leader in planar magnetic technology, brings this premium engineering to the masses with the HE400SE. Though priced affordably, the technology inside these headphones rivals that of models costing three or four times more.
Connectivity and Compatibility
The HE400SE uses a detachable dual 3.5mm cable, making it easily replaceable and compatible with a wide range of gear. It comes with a 3.5 mm-to-6.35 mm adapter, which is great for plugging into desktop amps or professional audio interfaces.
While it can run directly off a MacBook M2 or even a smartphone, pairing it with a portable DAC or headphone amp like the FiiO K3 or iFi Zen DAC elevates the experience dramatically. The 25-ohm impedance ensures it’s relatively easy to drive without needing an expensive setup.
Use Cases: Gaming, Music, and More
These headphones are incredibly versatile. For music, they offer stunning clarity, deep immersion, and emotional engagement. Audiophiles will appreciate the neutral sound signature that allows music to shine as it was intended.
For gaming, the open-back design creates a wide soundstage, making directional audio in first-person shooters much more precise. Explosions feel tight, footsteps are distinct, and ambient effects are immersive.
Even for video editing or mixing, these headphones provide a level of detail and accuracy that supports professional tasks.
Pros and Minor Trade-Offs
Pros:
- Planar magnetic sound at a budget price
- Excellent soundstage and detail
- Comfortable for long use
- Detachable cable
- Well-built and attractive design
Minor Trade-Offs:
- Open-back design leaks sound, so not ideal for travel
- No built-in microphone
- Lacks wireless functionality (but this is by design for purist audio quality)
Why It Outperforms Its Price Class
Few headphones in this price range offer this level of technological sophistication and audio performance. The HE400SE breaks the norm by offering planar magnetic drivers under $300—something rarely seen in the headphone market.
Whether you’re upgrading from basic consumer headphones or looking for a backup set that doesn’t compromise on quality, the HE400SE stands tall among its competitors. HIFIMAN has succeeded in democratizing audiophile sound without compromising on key essentials.
Final Verdict: An Audiophile’s Entry Point
To put it simply, the HIFIMAN HE400SE is a game-changer for audio lovers who want premium sound without the premium price tag. It combines revolutionary technology with elegant design and offers a sound signature that’s both refined and dynamic. These headphones are not just good for the price. they’re great, period.
Whether you’re a music producer, a gamer, or someone who simply enjoys high-fidelity music at home, the HE400SE opens the door to a world of superior audio. It’s the kind of headphone that makes you fall in love with your favorite tracks all over again.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is this the stealth magnet version?
No, this listing is for the Non-Stealth Version, but it still performs excellently with only subtle differences in treble refinement.
Can it be used without an amplifier?
Yes, the 25-ohm impedance makes it easier to drive than most planar headphones. It sounds decent from laptops and phones, but truly shines with an amp or DAC.
Is it good for gaming?
Absolutely. The wide soundstage and accurate imaging make it perfect for immersive and competitive gaming.
Does it have a built-in microphone?
No, it is a pure audio headphone without any microphone or wireless features.
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