Hifiman HE600

The Hifiman HE600 is a modern reinterpretation of the legendary HE6, retaining its iconic sound signature while integrating cutting-edge technologies. This open-back planar magnetic headphone, more versatile than its predecessor, weighs in at 389 grams, with an impedance of 28 ohms and a sensitivity raised to 94 dB, making it compatible with a wider range of amplifiers. It thus addresses the main limitations of the original model while preserving the essence that built the HE6’s reputation.

A second-generation Neo Supernano diaphragm

The technological core of the HE600 lies in its Neo Supernano Gen.2 diaphragm, whose thickness has been reduced by 60% compared with the first generation. This exceptionally thin membrane features an ultra-thin conductive plating that enables remarkable responsiveness to variations in the electrical signal. Planar magnetic technology, the fundamental principle of this headphone, operates according to a precise scheme: a flat diaphragm carrying electrical conductors is suspended between permanent magnetic fields. When current flows through these conductors, the interaction with the magnetic field generates uniform diaphragm movement, thereby creating sound waves with minimal distortion and exceptionally fast transient response.

This uniformity of diaphragm movement is one of the major advantages of planar technology compared with conventional dynamic transducers. Unlike the latter, where a conical membrane is driven from its center by a voice coil, the HE600’s planar diaphragm moves perfectly evenly across its entire surface. This characteristic eliminates parasitic oscillations and deformations that can occur at high frequencies or high volume, ensuring sound reproduction of remarkable clarity and stability.

The second-generation composite headband also marks a significant step forward in ergonomic design. Between 20 and 30 grams lighter than earlier versions, it incorporates rotating hinges that allow for optimal adjustment to each user’s morphology. This weight reduction, combined with the balanced distribution of the headphone’s mass, contributes to long-lasting comfort even during extended listening sessions.

A rethought magnetic design for accessibility

The HE600’s major innovation lies in its completely redesigned magnetic system. The Hifiman HE600 has developed a structure of permanent magnets without rare earths which, thanks to meticulous optimization of their arrangement and geometry, manages to match the performance of traditional magnets containing these costly materials. This technical feat not only reduces production costs, but more importantly achieves a sensitivity of 94 dB, which is 11 dB higher than the original HE6 at just 83.5 dB.

This dramatic improvement in sensitivity radically transforms everyday use of the headphone. Whereas the HE6 strictly required amplifiers capable of delivering several watts of power—with some users even resorting to speaker power amplifiers—the HE600 works well with more conventional quality headphone amplifiers. The impedance lowered to 28 ohms, compared with 50 ohms for the HE6, further eases pairing with a wide variety of amplifiers, making this headphone compatible with much more accessible setups.

The protective grilles covering the transducers are a welcome return to the Hifiman range. These metal elements effectively protect the delicate planar diaphragms from dust and accidental contact, while preserving the acoustic transparency needed for optimal operation of an open-back headphone. This design feature, absent on some recent models from the brand, reflects a more pragmatic approach aimed at ensuring product longevity in real-world usage conditions.

Comfort and ergonomics: the details that make the difference

The FocusPad earpads represent the culmination of several years of development at Hifiman. These hybrid pads cleverly combine different materials to optimize both comfort and acoustic performance. The outer section in soft velour minimizes heat buildup and moisture during long listening sessions, while the inner section in leatherette ensures better acoustic sealing around the ear. The memory foam gradually adapts to the user’s shape, creating a personalized fit that improves passive isolation and even pressure distribution.

The 10-degree angled 3.5 mm connectors demonstrate particular attention to practical details. This angle significantly reduces the mechanical stress exerted on the cable at the connection point—a traditionally vulnerable area where repeated bending can cause premature degradation. This design extends cable lifespan and ensures a more reliable connection over time, especially important for a headphone in this class where signal quality is paramount.

The 113-gram weight reduction compared with the original HE6 (389 g versus 502 g) transforms the user experience. This substantial slimming, achieved without compromising build robustness, results from the use of modern composite materials and meticulous structural optimization. The self-adjusting suspended headband effectively distributes the remaining weight across the top of the head, avoiding localized pressure points that can become uncomfortable after several hours of listening.

Technical Specifications

Product Overview

• Type: high-performance planar magnetic headphones
• Positioning: a reinvention of the classic HE6 with modern technologies
• Goal: reproduce the HE6 sound signature while improving comfort, sensitivity, and compatibility with standard headphone amplifiers

Performance and Comparisons

• Sound signature faithful to the HE6 with a standard headphone amplifier
• Quality comparable to a system driven by a power amplifier
• Sonic precision and speed thanks to the ultra-thin diaphragm
• High sensitivity without compromising quality

Design and Materials

• Neo Supernano Gen.2 diaphragm
  • 60% thinner than the first generation
  • Ultra-thin conductive coating for fast, detailed response
• Permanent magnets without rare earths
  • Optimized structure to achieve sensitivity equivalent to rare-earth magnet designs
• Gen.2 composite headband
  • 20–30 g weight reduction compared to previous designs
  • Rotating hinges for optimal fit
• 3.5 mm connectors angled at 10°
  • Reduced cable strain
  • More durable, reliable connection

Technical Specifications

• Frequency response: 8 Hz – 65 kHz
• Impedance: 28 Ω
• Sensitivity: 94 dB
• Weight: 389 g

Comfort and Ergonomics

• FocusPad earpads
  • Memory foam
  • Inner faux leather and soft outer velour
  • Long-lasting comfort during extended listening sessions
• Significant weight reduction
  • HE6: 502 g
  • HE600: 389 g
  • More than 110 g lighter