As detailed, the new HIFIMAN HE-R10P planar magnetic headphones (SRP: $5,500.00) feature large earcups made of cherry wood that provide the necessary breathing room with substantial spatial volume and output that reflects the best of both closed and open-back designs. Each cup was CNC-carved and the finish marries wood and aviation-grade aluminum with elegance and style.
The more affordable HIFIMAN HE-R10D ($1,499.00) features pinewood earcups and applies nanoscale particles to an upscaled topology driver technology for greater control of audible distortions, that the company says results in "demonstrably improved clarity compared to typical closed-back headphones with dynamic drivers.
"We invested significant time and resources into developing HIFIMAN closed-back headphones with a shell made of solid wood," explains Fang Bian, the founder and CEO of HIFIMAN Electronics. "The HE-R10P is designed for luxury inside and out. From the lavish headband to lightweight and comfortable earcups, it represents the pinnacle of modern closed-back headphones at a price that belies its remarkable sonics."
Planar Magnetic Expertise
To design the HE-R10P headphones, HIFIMAN says it applied all its planar magnetic design expertise, successfully featuring a nano scale thickness diaphragm that the company states, "produces unmatched levels of detail with low distortion." The exterior of the HE-R10P is made of all-natural lambskin surrounding high-grade memory foam for maximum comfort and elasticity. The headband skeleton is constructed of solid steel.
Adding to the overall fit of the headphone are HIFIMAN’s “Tranquility” earpads, featuring high-quality suede on the outside, with a ring-shaped inner surface to absorb sound and prevent leakage, thereby focusing the sound on the listener’s ear. The contact edge is constructed of highly permeable material further to ensure comfort for hours-long listening sessions.
Just as the headphone’s components are top-shelf, the cable, too, represents a new design. A single-crystal, silver-plated structure is highlighted by a high strand count and other elements to guarantee low signal loss and total strength to withstand hours of daily use. Also, the TRSS plug/socket solution allows for a direct balanced input routed to the appropriate drivers.
For compatibility with the highest range of sources, the HE-R10P includes three cables: 3.5mm, 6.5mm, and balanced XLR. The HE-R10P closed-back planar magnetic headphone is available at a suggested retail price of $5,499.00 from Amazon and HIFIMAN’s online store.
Closed-Back Dynamics
The similar-looking HE-R10D headphones are a closed-back dynamic driver design with lightweight, oversized wooden earcups for clarity and long-term comfort. With a more affordable price tag of $1,499.00 USD, The R10D is unique in that it applies a nano-particles coating on an upscaled topology driver, that the company says marks its debut application on a large-scale driver, and the first application in an over-ear design. No further details on materials are provided.
"This diaphragm uses a technology originally designed for our in-ear monitors," says Fang Bian. "By applying nano scale particles to the diaphragm in a variety of patterns and layers, a high-level optimization occurs, having a positive effect on the audio characteristics. Even the most casual listeners will recognize and appreciate the immense improvement over standard designs."
The HE-R10D design features similar large earcups as the planar magnetic model, but made of pinewood, and with the same intention of delivering additional internal spatial volume. Each cup is CNC-carved and the natural wood finish complements the aviation-grade aluminum and the choice of suede and memory foam, again with the headband skeleton constructed of solid steel.
The same "Tranquility" large earpad design is used, featuring high-quality leather on the outside, with a ring-shaped inner surface to absorb sound and prevent leakage, thereby focusing the sound on the listener’s ear. The contact edge is constructed of highly permeable material to ensure comfort during hours-long listening sessions.
The new cable design was also applied to the R10D, with the TRSS plug/socket solution and each package including three cables: 3.5mm, 6.5mm, and balanced XLR. The HE-R10D closed-back dynamic headphones will be available at a suggested retail price of $1,499 USD.
www.hifiman.com
