Hifiman Sundara vs HE400i

September 7, 2020

Which one should you get?

Are you wondering which pair to get between the HiFiman Sundara and the HE400i? Well you are in the right place and also at the right time. Today we’ll be looking at specific features that differentiate the two models. By the end we’ll be able to tell which is a yes and a no.

Both models live up to standard. They both have great accessories in which each of these headsets comes with an audio cable which is 1.5m long. Not ignoring the fact that the cable ends with a 3.5mm jack making it compatible with most computers and phones.

HiFiman Sundara

In terms of sound quality, the HiFiMan Sundara is one of the best sounding headsets with very clear and crisp sound. It is a new headset in a way that has some great features that music lovers would appreciate.

So what we have here is generally a pair of headphones that have a weight spreading strap for outstanding comfort but with a more fashion conscious look. It has a sleek and sumptuous matte black finish. With a headband that is built to take the rigors of urban street life.

He400i

It comes at a point in which it is 30% lighter than comparable planar magnetic headphones. Hence allowing the listener to comfortably enjoy music for hours without feeling like their ears are on fire. Which is truly a great option for music lovers.

Coming with single-ended drivers, the HE-400i delivers a lifelike soundstage and spatial imaging. Its increased efficiency of 93dB allows it to be driven with a modest size amplifier and can even be used with a portable audio player or smartphone.

Favourite Features

HiFiman Sundara

The pair is generally tough and it comes with a New 3.5mm headphone connector for enhanced durability. It has a Frequency Response of 6Hz – 75kHz and Impedance of 37 ohms with a Sensitivity of 94dB and Weight of 372g

The Sundara comes with a great steel build that makes it more of a street stylish pair of headsets. They become that pair that you can easily wear around in casual setups like when you are taking a walk or a jog or when you are just chilling.

He400i

Besides all that it comes with a newly-designed headband and beveled hybrid ear pads that provide added comfort as well as improved sound quality. Which makes any music session all the better than any other experience ever.

They have this modern sleek style that just sets them apart from the regular headphones that you see out there. The magnetic look and appeal. With the shiny look that it gives make them seem more stylish and classic as compared to other competing products.

Other features

Sound Quality

Though not much of a difference. Looking at the sound produced by each of these headsets one can note that there are very subtle differences which may be worth keying on if you are trying to figure out which pair would be better for. Simply put the Hifiman Sundara sounds better and more enjoyable than its predecessor Hifiman 400I.

Reason is that it has a significantly wider frequency response range. Hifiman Sundara has an impressive frequency response range of 6 Hz – 75 kHz. Another great fact is that the impedance is 37 ohms, and the sensitivity is 94 dB. It is easier to drive as compared to the He400I in which it can be paired with a decent external amp to produce better sound.

Also unlike the He400l the HiFiman comes with the soundstage as very spacious and very nice. You’ll find that because of this feature it delivers a very engaging and natural audio image. Which Is something worth considering when deciding on a pair to get.

Build Quality

One of the biggest differences between Hifiman Sundara vs 400I is the build quality. The Hifiman Sundara is really rugged and this makes it seem as if it has been designed and made to be ready to withstand usage abuse. Plus it isn’t foldable so there’s a downer for it.

Hifiman Sundara recently designed comes with a metal-infused frame. This makes it more sturdy and reliable. It can stand a few bumps and nudges while on someone’s head. As a result, you will find the frame to be incredibly tough and solid. It will not break easily, even when pressed or pulled heavily

On the other hand the Hifiman 400I is generally well-built, but it has some weak points which makes the HiFiman Sundara a step ahead of it. It is designed for luxury and looks and less for protection and durability. Unlike the sundara, it does not come with anodized aluminum gimbals, which are sturdy and durable. Making it a step behind in terms of sturdiness and durability.

Bass performance

When it comes to bass performance. The bass performance for the Hifiman Sundara is pretty much neutral and linear. It does not come with that dominating sound on the bass hence may make the music seem flat and boring than it actually is. Though not as dominating as you would want it to be. It still is not soft or flabby.

The bass is just enough to make enjoyable music without muddling the midrange and treble. Besides that, because of the controlled bass response. You’ll be glad to know that the lower mids are pretty much accurate and detailed. The vocals are also quite clear, crisp and accurate giving you a great music experience still. The treble is energetic and elevated without being overly peaky.

He400I generally sounds great. Which we can prove by the fact that it is rather quite popular in the market. The bass is well-extended, and it is tight and punchy. Unlike the prior set you can actually feel the bass well enough to enjoy the song at its full potential without having to face any disappointment whatsoever.

The midrange is somewhat warm and really enjoyable. It comes with a treble that is impressively clear, evident, and lively. Sadly when compared to the Hifiman Sundara it tends to be a tad bit muffled especially in the midrange and it is also a bit more sibilant in the treble.

What could be better

HiFiman Sundara

The HiFiman Sundara is a great pair of headsets to add to your collection if you truly are a music lover. It comes with a strong build that can be able to stand so many things that a regular pair may not be able to take on.

They are mostly stable and are made from a material close to metal that makes them quite sturdy and durable as well. With a pair like this. You are guaranteed a longer lifetime with them. Which is something that is rather important for such a pair.

He400i

The Hifiman HE-400i is a high quality and full-size planar magnetic headphone. They come designed for critical listening whether you are at home or you are working in the studio. They can still offer you a great listening session.

If you are looking for a more stylish look while listening to music then the He400i may just be an option worth looking towards. Coming with a magnetic feel and look that keeps them together these headphones are probably easier to walk with.

The verdict

Well if you are looking for something that is rather affordable and can offer you a great sound of music. Then trying out the HiFiman Sundara may not be a bad idea. Coming with a sturdy and stable build. I’d recommend the Hifiman Sundara for a more durable experience with music.