HIFIMAN vs FiiO: Headphones Compared by Specs
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This HIFIMAN vs FiiO headphones comparison focuses on two open-back planar magnetic designs. Both models target studio and hi-fi listening with wired connectivity. The HIFIMAN HE400SE uses Stealth Magnets for lower distortion and includes a 6.35mm adapter. The FiiO FT1 Pro features a larger 95x86mm driver with a 1μm diaphragm and dual coating. You get different driver technologies and physical dimensions in each package.
Key differences
| Aspect | HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones | FiiO FT1 Pro Open-Back Planar Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Size | Not listed | 95x86mm |
| Diaphragm Thickness | Not listed | 1μm |
| Magnet Technology | Stealth Magnets | Uniform Magnetic Field Design |
| Weight | 13.8 ounces | 2.29 pounds |
| Color Options | Silver, Black | Blue |
Which one should you choose?
Choose HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones if
- You prefer a lighter, more portable over-ear design at 13.8 ounces.
- You want included accessories like a 6.35mm adapter for direct connection.
- You value Stealth Magnet technology for reduced wave diffraction turbulence.
Choose FiiO FT1 Pro Open-Back Planar Headphones if
- You need a larger 95x86mm diaphragm for a wider soundstage.
- You want a 1μm ultra-thin diaphragm with sapphire and aluminum coatings.
- You prefer a blue finish for your studio or home listening setup.
Verdict: The HIFIMAN HE400SE is the better choice if you prioritize lightweight comfort and included connectivity adapters. The FiiO FT1 Pro suits listeners who want the technical benefits of a larger driver and advanced diaphragm coatings. Both deliver open-back planar magnetic performance for critical listening.
HIFIMAN vs FiiO Planar Specs
Driver Size and Design
The FiiO FT1 Pro features a substantial 95x86mm flat unit, which is comparable to flagship models in its class. This larger surface area helps create a wide lateral soundstage with clear boundaries. The diaphragm uses a 1μm ultra-thin PET substrate with sapphire and aluminum dual-coating to boost high-frequency resolution and conductivity. The HIFIMAN HE400SE does not list specific driver dimensions in its published data. It focuses instead on Stealth Magnet technology to reduce wave diffraction and distortion. Without exact size metrics for the HIFIMAN, the FiiO offers more detailed specifications regarding its physical driver construction and coating materials.
Weight and Dimensions
Weight and size differ significantly between these two open-back designs. The HIFIMAN HE400SE weighs 13.8 ounces and measures 12 inches in length, 10.5 inches in width, and 7.09 inches in height. This lighter profile may suit users who prefer less clamping force or smaller footprints. The FiiO FT1 Pro weighs 2.29 pounds, which is roughly 36.6 ounces. This is substantially heavier than the HIFIMAN model. The FiiO data does not provide length, width, or height dimensions. If you prioritize a lighter pair of headphones for extended sessions, the HIFIMAN has a clear advantage in weight metrics.
Connectivity Options
Both headphones rely on wired connectivity for audio transmission. The HIFIMAN HE400SE includes a dual-sided high-performance 3.5mm cable and comes packaged with a 6.35mm adapter. This adapter ensures compatibility with a wider range of devices, including professional audio interfaces and older equipment that require larger jacks. The FiiO FT1 Pro is listed as wired but does not specify the included cable gauge, connector type, or adapter availability in the provided data. For buyers who need immediate compatibility with standard 6.35mm inputs without buying separate adapters, the HIFIMAN provides more complete connectivity information.
Acoustic Design
Both models utilize an open-back acoustic design, which allows air to move freely through the ear cups. This typically results in a more natural, spacious soundstage but offers no passive noise isolation. The HIFIMAN HE400SE is recommended for studio use and features Stealth Magnets to maintain acoustic transparency. The FiiO FT1 Pro is also recommended for studio and recording applications, targeting hi-fi listening. It claims a frequency response up to 40kHz due to its flat unit design. Since both share the open-back architecture and studio focus, they offer similar spatial characteristics for critical listening environments.
Driver Technology
Both products use planar magnetic driver types, which generally offer lower distortion than conventional dynamic drivers. The HIFIMAN HE400SE highlights its Stealth Magnet design, which is acoustically transparent to reduce interference and turbulence. It also notes high sensitivity, making it suitable for low-voltage portable sources. The FiiO FT1 Pro emphasizes its 28-nanometer chip-level manufacturing process for the conductive coils and a uniform magnetic field design to eliminate unevenness. While both use planar magnetic technology, the FiiO provides more granular details about its magnetic field optimization and coil manufacturing process.
Choose the right planar headphones for you
Portable hi-res audio enthusiasts
The HIFIMAN HE400SE offers high sensitivity, making it an ideal match for low-voltage sources like portable hi-res audio players. Its lightweight design and adjustable headband ensure comfort during long sessions. You get a 6.35mm adapter for broader device compatibility, ensuring easy connection without needing extra gear.
Listeners seeking wide soundstage
The FiiO FT1 Pro features a large 95x86mm flat unit that delivers an exceptionally wide lateral soundstage. This design creates almost imperceptible boundaries, allowing for precise imaging. The 1μm ultra-thin diaphragm and dual-coating technology enhance frequency response, providing detailed audio resolution across the full range up to 40kHz.
Users prioritizing low distortion
HIFIMAN’s Stealth Magnets are acoustically transparent, allowing sound waves to pass without interference. This advanced design dramatically reduces wave diffraction turbulence and distortion. You receive pure, accurate, and full-range sonic output, making these headphones suitable for critical listening where signal integrity matters most in your studio or home setup.
Audiophiles wanting high resolution
The FiiO FT1 Pro uses a 1μm ultra-thin diaphragm with sapphire and aluminum dual-coating. This patent technology boosts high-frequency resolution and conductivity. The uniform magnetic field design reduces segmented vibrations, capturing subtle musical nuances. You get refined sound performance with superior durability thanks to chip-level manufacturing processes.
The products compared
HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles seeking accurate planar magnetic sound
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear Open-Back
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5mm, 6.35mm adapter
- Audio Features
- Stereo
- Recommended Use
- Studio
- Driver Type
- Planar Magnetic
- Dimensions
- 12 × 10.5 × 7.09 inches
View on Amazon: HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones Affiliate link
The HIFIMAN HE400SE uses a planar magnetic driver with acoustically invisible stealth magnets to reduce distortion. This open-back design offers accurate, full-range sound. The high sensitivity works well with low-voltage portable players. It connects via a wired 3.5mm cable with a 6.35mm adapter. You get comfortable listening for hours thanks to a lightweight, adjustable headband.
Pros
- Planar magnetic driver with stealth magnets for low distortion
- Open-back acoustic design for accurate sound
- High sensitivity matches low-voltage portable sources
- Includes 3.5mm cable and 6.35mm adapter
Cons
- Wired connection limits wireless convenience
- Open-back design lacks noise isolation
- Requires separate amplifier for optimal performance
Good fit if
- You want accurate, low-distortion sound from a planar driver
- You use portable hi-res audio players
- You prefer open-back headphones for spacious sound
Skip if
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You require noise isolation for noisy environments
- You want a compact, travel-friendly design
Verdict: HIFIMAN HE400SE Planar Magnetic Headphones deliver precise audio for listeners who prioritize sound quality over convenience. It fits audiophiles using portable players who value open-back clarity.
FiiO FT1 Pro Open-Back Planar Headphones
Best for: studio recording and detailed home listening
- Form Factor
- Open-back
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Driver Size
- 95 x 86 mm
- Audio Features
- Hi-Fi
- Recommended Use
- Studio
- Driver Type
- Planar Magnetic
View on Amazon: FiiO FT1 Pro Open-Back Planar Headphones Affiliate link
The FiiO FT1 Pro is an open-back planar magnetic headphone designed for studio and high-fidelity listening. It features a large 95x86mm driver with a 1-micrometer ultra-thin diaphragm. The build weighs 2.29 pounds and uses wired connectivity. These specifications support a wide soundstage and extended frequency response up to 40kHz. It suits listeners who prioritize detailed audio resolution and spatial accuracy in a home setting.
Pros
- Large 95x86mm planar magnetic driver
- 1-micrometer ultra-thin diaphragm for high-speed vibration control
- Sapphire and aluminum dual-coating for improved resolution
- Wired connection ensures stable signal transmission
- Open-back design creates a wide lateral soundstage
Cons
- Wired-only connectivity limits portable use
- 2.29-pound weight may cause fatigue during long sessions
- Open-back design lacks noise isolation
Good fit if
- You want detailed sound resolution for studio work
- You prefer open-back acoustics for natural imaging
- You value large driver sizes for wide soundstages
Skip if
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity for travel
- You require noise-isolating closed-back design
- You prefer lightweight headphones under 2 pounds
Verdict: FiiO FT1 Pro Planar Headphones delivers precise audio resolution through its specialized diaphragm and large driver. It fits listeners who prioritize studio-grade detail and spatial accuracy in a stationary environment.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones | FiiO FT1 Pro Open-Back Planar Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Form Factor | Over-Ear Open-Back | Open-back |
| Connectivity | Wired, 3.5mm, 6.35mm adapter | Wired |
| Driver Size | not stated | 95 x 86 mm |
| Audio Features | Stereo | Hi-Fi |
| Recommended Use | Studio | Studio |
| Acoustic Design | Open-Back | Open-Back |
| Driver Type | Planar Magnetic | Planar Magnetic |
| Color | Silver,Black | Blue |
| Dimensions | 12 × 10.5 × 7.09 inches | not stated |
| Weight | 13.8 ounces | 2.29 pounds |
| Model | He400SE | FT1 Pro |
| Size | not stated | 95x86mm |
Frequently asked questions
Which HIFIMAN headphones are best for audiophiles?
The HIFIMAN HE400SE is the top choice for listeners seeking accurate planar magnetic sound. It features an open-back design and stereo audio output. The over-ear form factor fits users who prioritize sound quality over convenience. It is recommended for studio use and works well with portable players.
What are the specs of the FiiO FT1 Pro?
The FiiO FT1 Pro is a wired, open-back planar magnetic headphone. It features Hi-Fi audio capabilities and is available in blue. The driver size is 95x86mm. The unit weighs 2.29 pounds. It is designed for studio recording and detailed home listening in stationary environments.
Are HIFIMAN and FiiO headphones wireless?
No, both models listed are wired headphones. The HIFIMAN HE400SE uses a wired connection for stereo audio. The FiiO FT1 Pro also relies on wired connectivity for its Hi-Fi performance. Neither model includes Bluetooth or wireless capabilities, ensuring a stable connection for studio and critical listening tasks.
How much do the HIFIMAN HE400SE weigh?
The HIFIMAN HE400SE weighs 13.8 ounces. Its dimensions are 10.5 inches wide, 7.09 inches high, and 12 inches long. It is available in silver and black. This weight makes it suitable for long listening sessions, especially for users who value comfort alongside precise audio resolution.
What driver type do these headphones use?
Both the HIFIMAN HE400SE and the FiiO FT1 Pro use planar magnetic drivers. This technology helps deliver precise audio resolution. The FiiO model uses a specialized diaphragm with a large driver surface. The HIFIMAN model focuses on accurate sound reproduction for audiophiles who prioritize audio fidelity.
Can I use these headphones for studio work?
Yes, both models are recommended for studio use. The HIFIMAN HE400SE offers open-back clarity suitable for professional audio work. The FiiO FT1 Pro provides spatial accuracy and detailed home listening. Their wired connections and open-back designs help reduce interference and provide a wide soundstage for critical evaluation.
What is the difference between the two brands?
HIFIMAN focuses on precise audio for portable players, while FiiO targets studio-grade detail. The HIFIMAN HE400SE is lighter at 13.8 ounces. The FiiO FT1 Pro is heavier at 2.29 pounds and features a larger driver. Both use open-back planar magnetic technology for high-fidelity sound reproduction.