HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones: A Rare Gem in Planar Headphones

Published on Jan. 6, 2024, 12:39 p.m.

In the world of audiophile headphones, open-back planar magnetic models reign supreme. But what if you want planar sound in a closed-back design for isolation? Enter the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back, a rare breed that defies convention.

Overview

HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones brings the sound signature of the popular open-back SUNDARA to a closed-back format. It utilizes planar drivers for accurate and natural sound. The stealth magnets reduce distortion. Wood earcups provide stylish looks and ideal acoustics. At its affordable price point, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones planar stands out from the dynamic driver crowd.

Key Features:

Closed-back design with excellent noise isolation
Stealth magnets to reduce sound distortion
80% thinner NsD diaphragm for accurate and quick sound
Elegant beech wood earcups with premium style
Comfortable and lightweight headband for all-day wearing

HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones

Design:

An ode to natural beauty, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones is adorned in striking beech wood earcups. The woodgrain finish adds warmth while remaining lightweight for hours of fatigue-free wear. The sleek headband provides a secure yet gentle fit.

Killer Feature:

The 80% thinner NsD diaphragm reproduces sound with lightning-fast speed and pinpoint accuracy across an expansive frequency range. This supernano driver technology is part of HIFIMAN’s secret sauce for stunning audio.

Ease of Use:

With standard connectivity and detachable cables, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones plays nice with a wide variety of devices. Just plug and play - no special amplification needed to enjoy the planar goodness.

Sound Quality:

Drivers: Advanced planar magnetic drivers with stealth magnet design
Power handling: Unknown, but can reach high volumes with bass impact
Drivers units: Proprietary NsD diaphragm

The HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones rewards listeners with scintillating highs, silky mids, and tight lows. You’ll hear hidden details emerge with laser precision. The closed-back format provides isolation without compromising the expansive soundstage.

Microphone:

None included. This is a passive listening headphone only.

Noise canceling:

No active noise canceling, but the closed-back design provides passive isolation.
HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones

Charging and Battery Life:

As a wired passive headphone, no charging or batteries are required. Simply plug into your audio source and enjoy.

Connectivity:

Wired only, with detachable 1.5m cable terminating in 3.5mm or 6.35mm plugs for amp compatibility.

Controls:

No integrated control module. Volume must be adjusted on the connected device.

Build Quality:

The beech wood earcups and lightweight headband exude premium quality in materials and construction. The detachable cables and standardized plugs make for reliable connections.

Comfort:

Opinions vary on long-term comfort and fit. The headband and earpads aim for all-day wearing sessions. Individual head anatomy will determine best results.

HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones

Use Cases:

The HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones shines in a variety of settings:

Home listening room - Enjoy your music collection in crisp detail without disturbing others.
Office - Tune out distracting sounds for improved focus and productivity.
Recording studio - Hear every nuance to make mixing decisions with confidence.
Commuting - Lose yourself in your music cocoon, immune to the outside world.

User Feedback Analysis:

Overall, reviews indicate the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones makes owners very happy. Audiophiles praise the planar magnetic drivers for delivering stunningly clear and open sound with energizing bass. Many describe the sonic quality as comparable to open-back planar flagship models from HIFIMAN costing twice as much. Users call the closed-back format a “game changer” that finally allows them to experience rich planar sound in noisy environments.

Regarding design, users gush over the natural wood and metal aesthetics. They find the mix of materials alluring yet understated. Owners enjoy showing off the stylish look as a conversation starter. Some mention receiving compliments on the “beautiful craftsmanship” while wearing them in public.

Comfort opinions diverge between users depending on head size and shape. Those with average to smaller heads report excellent long-term comfort from the lightweight build and plush earpads. However, users with larger heads complain about tight clamping force that causes discomfort over extended listening. A few with broad jawlines also cite discomfort from their ears pressing against the wooden baffles.

In terms of sound, owners abundantly praise the accuracy, detail, and spatial qualities. The soundstage and imaging ability get called “holographic” and “3D-like” - rare words for closed-back headphones. Users describe vocals as intimate and emotional. Instruments sound crisp and separated. On the downside, some find the highs slightly sharp or sibilant on certain tracks. Treble-sensitive listeners may prefer a mellower tuning.

Overall, the consensus remains extremely positive. For the affordable price, users feel the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones provides tremendous value. The minor comfort and treble issues don’t outweigh the beautiful aesthetic and stellar planar magnetic sound. Given the limited selection of audiophile closed-back planars, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones stands out as a diamond in the rough.

Pros:

Spacious planar sound
Closed-back noise isolation
Clear and detailed audio across frequencies
Stylish design with premium materials
High value for a planar headphone

Cons:

Treble may be sharp for some
Comfort and fit varies for users
Needs amping to reach full potential

Value:

With its planar magnetic drivers and high-end performance, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones punches far above typical headphones at this price point. For shoppers seeking top-tier sound on a budget, the HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones represents an incredible value.

The HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Wired Hi-Fi Headphones combines top-tier planar sound with closed-back noise isolation, encased in an elegant yet durable design. For its price, it’s a rare find among audiophile headphones. Don’t sleep on this planar gem!