Planar magnetic headphone enthusiasts (and headphone lovers in general) are very familiar with HiFiMan: the company produces planar magnetic headphones for every budget range, and has released several models that have become true benchmarks within different price segments, such as the Sundara, Ananda, and Arya. We had the opportunity to test the recent Edition XS, which sits between the Sundara and Ananda in the lineup, also comparing them with other models from the brand. What is our verdict? They sound incredibly good for their price range and are very comfortable despite the considerable weight typical of planar magnetic headphones. But let’s proceed step by step.
The Edition XS are the evolution of the previous Edition X model, launched back in 2016, and represent one of the company’s flagship models in the 500–600 euro price range, effectively positioning themselves as an intermediate solution between the Sundara and the Ananda, bearing more similarity to the latter (a resemblance that starts with the design of the earcups, which are large and elongated). They feature Stealth Magnet and NEO Supernano Diaphragm technologies, are wired, and come with a good no-frills cable. Looking at the specifications of these open-back circumaural headphones, we find a frequency response of 8Hz–50kHz, 18Ω impedance, and 92dB sensitivity.
These are clearly desktop or armchair headphones, not designed for on-the-go use (although those who are not concerned about bulk can still connect them to a portable DAC/amp), and they have a significant weight (405 grams). However, the headband padding and large soft earcups make them comfortable, and we had no issues during long listening sessions.
The Stealth Magnets technology was designed to reduce possible wave interference through a new magnet architecture, aiming to recreate a more accurate and faithful sound. The NEO Supernano Diaphragm (NsD), another proprietary HiFiMan technology, is a diaphragm that is 75 percent thinner than previous versions, further improving the level of detail in reproduction.
How do the Edition XS fit? A distinctive feature of this model is its low clamp force, meaning they exert little pressure on the head. We found this comfortable, although it may be less suitable for users with a very small head. Some say the Sundara are more comfortable, but honestly, while we also appreciate that cheaper model, we clearly prefer the XS in terms of comfort.
Prodotti consigliati
How the Edition XS are presented
The XS can be purchased either with an official travel case version (shown below) or in the classic version we tested, featuring an elegant black HiFiMan box with a side flip-opening lid. Inside, the headphones sit in a satin-lined molded insert, along with a good 3.5mm cable with 6.35mm adapter, warranty cards, information sheets explaining Stealth Magnet technology, and a product guide. The manual also includes instructions on usage, pad replacement, and other details (the recommended burn-in time, incidentally, is 150 hours).
The headphones can be extended simply by pulling the section between the headband and the earcups, allowing enough extension to fit even larger heads. The design, as shown in the photos, is simple and clean, and the large earcups make a strong visual impression when worn.
How the Edition XS sound
The Edition XS earcups are *really* large
So, let’s address the key question. The Edition XS sound very good for their price range, to the point of standing up well against major competitors in the segment. The similarities with the Ananda (a higher-tier headphone whose price has increased in recent months, now close to 800 euros) are evident both in sound reproduction and in earcup design. The Edition XS offer excellent detail, good instrument separation, a well-structured soundstage, and bass that, while not booming or overly aggressive (as is typical of planar magnetics compared to dynamic drivers), is present, well controlled, and well defined, making it very enjoyable to follow its nuances. We found it satisfying, although those who want more bass impact can always adjust their DAC/amp or use EQ.
The midrange is very clear, relatively energetic, and sounds natural, especially with vocals, which become the focus in R&B tracks, where the XS reproduce nuances very well. The treble is transparent and detailed: keeping in mind the price range of just over 500 euros, it is hard to find real flaws in their overall sonic performance. HiFiMan is known for producing devices with an excellent quality-to-price ratio, and the XS are no exception.
Vocals are well balanced. In tracks with dense instrumentation, however, instruments tend to take the lead: the XS manage to reproduce a good soundstage, not extremely wide but with clearly identifiable instrument placement, offering good dynamics and excellent detail retrieval. They excel with artists like Radiohead and Led Zeppelin, and with electronic music it is easy to get lost in the listening experience. Overall, the sound has a full-bodied character, without strong coloration, tending toward a neutral or natural presentation, with perhaps a very slight warmth.
Edition XS vs Sundara
A comparison with HiFiMan’s more popular entry-level headphones (currently around 330 euros) is useful. The difference is significant, especially in terms of detail, instrument separation, and overall balance. The Sundara are among the best-sounding headphones in their class, but the more advanced technology of the XS justifies the price increase. The Sundara are more dynamic and punchy, and at first the Edition XS might seem less impactful, but the gains in definition, balance, soundstage, and in our opinion also comfort, make them superior. In short, if you have both at home, you will likely not want to go back to the Sundara.
Conclusions
HiFiMan has clearly improved the Edition X. The new Edition XS are among the best headphones in the 500–600 euro range currently available, featuring excellent sound quality, good detail, instrument separation, strong dynamics, and overall balance. The weight is well managed thanks to the padding and large soft earcups, making long listening sessions comfortable. With a good DAC/headphone amp combination (such as HiFiMan’s own EF400 or the HFM Zen Signature Set from iFi), you can build a headphone system costing around 1000 euros that delivers satisfying listening for years.
A safe choice for those already familiar with planar magnetic headphones, and a great way for newcomers to discover them.
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