HiFiMAN has added a new model to its lineup of planar headphones: the $1,799 Edition X incorporates much of the same technology used in the flagship HE1000 and has a high sensitivity of 103 dB, so it can be driven easily by most portable audio devices. Full details are provided in the press release below. The Edition X is on sale now.
From HiFiMAN
HiFiMAN has announced their newest full-size, open-back, planar magnetic headphone, the Edition X.
Leveraging much of the same technology from their celebrated flagship HE1000, the company's latest model features asymmetrical ear cups, beveled hybrid ear pads, window shade grill design and ergonomic headband. Weighing only
fourteen ounces and boasting a remarkable sensitivity of 103 dB, the Edition X can easily be driven by most portable audio devices such as a smartphone or iPod. The HiFiMAN Edition X is available now with a MSRP of $1,799.
To take advantage of the ultra-thin driver on the Edition X, HiFiMAN engineers designed an Advanced Asymmetrical Magnetic Circuit. A painstaking process, HIFIMAN engineers were challenged to obtain the optimum balance between high driver efficiency and high sound quality. The innovative design of the double-sided, asymmetrical magnetic circuit is the perfect marriage of the X's planar diaphragm and its magnetic partner.
Window Shade Grill System
HiFiMAN needed to create a special design solution that provides driver protection, is optimized for an open-back design and that also yields the best possible sound quality. For the Edition X, a patented "Window Shade" grill made with premium alloys was the solution, precisely structured to gain greater openness in the headphone design. Its openness keeps the sound waves from second refraction to avoid unwanted vibration and distortion. The result is a wider soundstage, outstanding imaging and remarkable clarity. Aesthetically, as an added benefit, the Window Shade Grill also provides a unique look to the Edition X and an appropriate complement to the high-tech Mylar finish of the ear cups.
Form Follows Function: Asymmetrical Ear Cups + Beveled Hybrid Ear Pads
The premium ear pads of the Edition X have been specially designed in an asymmetrical shape that follows the form of the ear cups. The pads are beveled so that they contour to the shape of the user's head for superb comfort and extended listening, as well as a good acoustic seal. The hybrid design has velour on the surface for optimal comfort and sound.
Ergonomic, comfortable headband design for most head shapes and sizes
The Edition X headband is the result of clever industrial design. Entirely new thinking was needed that would accommodate the widely varied sizes of people's heads while applying or distributing correct pressure evenly. This provides not only improved comfort but also a better seal of the pads around the ears and on the head for improved bass.
The headband combines a lightweight metal alloy with soft pleather to form a sturdy arch structure. The perforations in the headband help to dissipate the heat. For additional comfort, the light mass also contributes to lessen the overall weight of the headphone.
Making the Connection
HiFiMAN only uses the finest cables for their headphones, and each model features a cable specially designed for it. The Edition X is supplied with a high-performance cable made of single crystal silver, designed for wide frequency range, low signal loss and enhanced emphasis on the low end for quality audio reproduction. The cable package includes two different types of plugs--mini (6.35mm) and 3.5mm--so it can be used with a wide array of source equipment. The plugs are easy to switch and quickly connected to different cables and amplifiers.
Key Features of the HiFiMAN Edition X:
• Ultra-Thin Diaphragm inspired by years of r&d, advanced planar magnetic driver reduces weight while lowering distortion and improving efficiency.
• High sensitivity of 103 dB allows the Edition X to be easily driven by virtually any portable audio device such as a smartphone, iPod, etc.
• Advanced Asymmetrical Magnetic Circuit: double-sided magnetic circuit provides perfect control of the driver for lifelike clarity and sonic precision.
• Asymmetrical Ear Cups: form follows function as these ear cups are designed to properly fit the shape of the human ear.
• Beveled Ear Pads: asymmetrical shape perfectly follows the contour of the human head for an optimum acoustic seal and sublime comfort.
• Ergonomic Headband accommodates a wide range of head sizes and applies pressure evenly assuring maximum comfort for extended periods.
• Window Shade Grill System: provides greater openness and a wide soundstage by reducing unwanted reflections and distortion.
• Specially designed Single Crystal Silver cable is user-replaceable and features convenient plug-in connectors.
Additional Resources
• HiFiMAN Introduces $299 HE400S Planar Headphones at HomeTheaterReview.com.
• HiFiMAN Announces HM901S Hi-Res Music Player at HomeTheaterReview.com.