{"product_id":"hifiman-he400se-planar-headphones","title":"HiFiMan HE400se Planar Headphones","description":"\u003ch2\u003eWhat You Need to Know\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eYour First Step into Real Audiophile Sound\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIf you’ve been curious about what “audiophile-grade” headphones actually sound like but didn’t want to spend hundreds (or thousands) to find out, the HiFiMAN HE400se is built for you. It’s a full-size, over-ear, open-back headphone that uses planar magnetic drivers — a type of speaker technology typically found in headphones costing several times more.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSo what does “planar magnetic” mean? Instead of a small voice coil pushing a cone (the way most headphones work), a planar magnetic driver spreads a thin conductive layer across a large, flat diaphragm. The entire surface moves together, driven by surrounding magnets. The result is faster, more precise sound with significantly lower distortion. You hear more detail, tighter bass, and a cleaner overall presentation — especially in complex musical passages where lesser headphones start to blur things together.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eStealth Magnets: Flagship Technology at an Entry-Level Price\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWhat makes the HE400se particularly special for its price is HiFiMAN’s Stealth Magnet design. In a conventional planar driver, the magnets that drive the diaphragm can actually interfere with the sound waves passing through them, creating subtle distortion. HiFiMAN solved this by reshaping the magnets with rounded edges, so sound waves pass through more freely with less interference. It’s the same technology used in HiFiMAN’s flagship headphones like the Susvara (which sells for around $6,000). Getting that kind of engineering in a headphone at this price is genuinely unusual.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe HE400se uses a large 80mm diaphragm with silver traces, housed in round open-back earcups. “Open-back” means the rear of the earcups is perforated, allowing air and sound to flow through freely. This creates a wider, more natural-sounding presentation — your music feels like it exists around you rather than being trapped inside your head. The trade-off? Sound leaks in both directions, so these are best suited for quiet home listening.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat the Experts Are Saying\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"ec-blockquote\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eChrono, Headphones.com\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eChrono described the HE400se’s tonal balance as neutral-sounding with linear bass and midrange and a mostly even treble. He found the structural upgrades — including the new headband and yoke design — to be a meaningful improvement over earlier HE400 models, and praised the headphone’s comfort. He noted the bass extension is outstanding for its price class but could use a touch more presence in the lowest registers. His conclusion: the HE400se represents one of the best values in over-ear headphones and gets a strong recommendation.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"ec-blockquote\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeadphonesty (June 2022)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeadphonesty’s review described the HE400se as having a mostly neutral tonality with a bright tilt, noting that the stealth magnet driver delivers genuine planar performance. They praised the build quality as solid for the price, the comfort as good thanks to well-distributed weight, and the modding potential as a major plus for enthusiasts. Their verdict: tremendous value and the best budget planar on the market.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"ec-blockquote\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eThe Headphoneer (November 2024)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe Headphoneer found the HE400se’s midrange timbre to be natural and warm, with dynamic and textured bass. They noted the headphone scales impressively with amplification, and with a capable amp it performs far above its price. Their recommendation: pair it with a decently powerful amplifier and the HE400se delivers great bass, warm mids, and crisp highs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"ec-blockquote\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTrusted Reviews (December 2022)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eTrusted Reviews praised the HE400se’s three-dimensional imaging and overall comfort, calling it a genuine planar magnetic experience at a budget price. They noted it’s best suited for home listening and benefits from external amplification. Their takeaway: fantastic sound for the money, with imaging that rivals much more expensive headphones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"ec-blockquote\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHeadfonics (January 2022)\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHeadfonics measured the diaphragm at approximately 80mm and noted the stealth magnet design is effective at reducing interference. They found the HE400se performs well across the entire frequency range — not the absolute best at anything, but never the worst either. Their summary: a well-rounded, all-around good headphone that’s great for the price.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWho Is This Headphone Best For?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"emoji\" role=\"img\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/17.0.2\/svg\/2714.svg\" alt=\"✔️\" width=\"15\"\u003e You’re curious about planar magnetic headphones and want to experience them without a major investment.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"emoji\" role=\"img\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/17.0.2\/svg\/2714.svg\" alt=\"✔️\" width=\"15\"\u003e You listen at home in a quiet environment and want a spacious, natural sound.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"emoji\" role=\"img\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/17.0.2\/svg\/2714.svg\" alt=\"✔️\" width=\"15\"\u003e You enjoy jazz, classical, acoustic, or vocal-forward music where detail and clarity really shine.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"emoji\" role=\"img\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/17.0.2\/svg\/2714.svg\" alt=\"✔️\" width=\"15\"\u003e You already own (or plan to buy) a headphone amplifier or DAC\/amp combo to get the most out of your headphones.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"emoji\" role=\"img\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/17.0.2\/svg\/2714.svg\" alt=\"✔️\" width=\"15\"\u003e You want a headphone that responds well to EQ and is easy to modify with aftermarket pads and cables.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow It Connects to Your System\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe HE400se uses a wired connection with dual 3.5mm jacks — one on each earcup. The included cable terminates in a 3.5mm plug with a 6.35mm (1\/4”) adapter, so you can connect to just about any headphone amplifier, DAC\/amp, audio interface, or portable player.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eKeep in mind that while the HE400se has a low impedance of 25–32 ohms, its sensitivity is 91 dB, which means it needs more power than a typical pair of headphones to reach its full potential. You can listen from a phone or laptop in a pinch, but you’ll get noticeably better results — fuller bass, wider soundstage, better dynamics — with a dedicated headphone amp or DAC\/amp. If you need help picking one out, give us a call.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhat’s in the Box\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHiFiMAN HE400se headphones\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eDual 3.5mm-to-3.5mm headphone cable\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e6.35mm (1\/4”) adapter\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eWarranty documentation\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003ePairs Well With\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eBuilding your system? Here are some great companions for the HE400se.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eHeadphone Amplifiers \u0026amp; DAC\/Amps:\u003c\/strong\u003e The HE400se really comes alive with proper amplification. Browse our \u003ca href=\"%%GLOBAL_ShopPathSSL%%\/headphones\/headphone-amplifiers\/\"\u003eHeadphone Amplifiers\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"%%GLOBAL_ShopPathSSL%%\/digital-audio\/digital-to-analog-converters\/\"\u003eDACs \u0026amp; Digital-to-Analog Converters\u003c\/a\u003e. \u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eReplacement Cables:\u003c\/strong\u003e Many owners choose to upgrade the stock cable. Check out our \u003ca href=\"%%GLOBAL_ShopPathSSL%%\/headphones\/headphone-cables\/\"\u003eHeadphone Cables\u003c\/a\u003e for options with dual 3.5mm connectors.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eOther HiFiMAN Headphones:\u003c\/strong\u003e If you’re looking to compare or upgrade within the \u003ca href=\"%%GLOBAL_ShopPathSSL%%\/search-results\/?lp=brand-hifiman\"\u003eHiFiMAN family\u003c\/a\u003e, explore the SUNDARA or the Ananda.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003e\n\u003cstrong\u003eMusic Streamers:\u003c\/strong\u003e Feed your new headphones high-quality audio from a dedicated streamer. Browse our \u003ca href=\"%%GLOBAL_ShopPathSSL%%\/digital-audio\/music-streamers\/\"\u003eMusic Streamers\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eFeatures \u0026amp; Specifications\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003ePlanar Magnetic Driver with Stealth Magnets\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLower Distortion, Cleaner Sound\u003c\/strong\u003e — The HE400se uses a full-size planar magnetic driver with an 80mm diaphragm. Unlike conventional headphones that drive sound from one small point, the HE400se’s entire diaphragm moves uniformly, producing faster transients and significantly lower distortion. HiFiMAN’s Stealth Magnet design takes it further by reshaping the magnets so sound waves pass through without interference — the same technology found in their flagship models.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eOpen-Back Design\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eNatural, Spacious Sound\u003c\/strong\u003e — The perforated earcup grilles let air and sound flow freely, creating a wide and natural soundstage. Your music feels open and dimensional rather than confined. This design is ideal for focused home listening in a quiet room.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eComfortable for Extended Listening\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eLightweight Build, Thoughtful Fit\u003c\/strong\u003e — At approximately 385 grams, the HE400se is lighter than many planar magnetic headphones. The padded headband distributes weight evenly, and the hybrid earpads use a combination of cloth and synthetic leather for breathability and comfort over long sessions.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDurable, Upgradable Connections\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eStandard 3.5mm Connectors\u003c\/strong\u003e — Each earcup uses a standard 3.5mm TRS connector, making it easy to swap in aftermarket cables. The included cable terminates in a 3.5mm plug with a 6.35mm adapter for broad compatibility.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eQuick-Reference Specifications\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003ctable\u003e\n\u003ctbody\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDriver Type\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003ePlanar Magnetic with Stealth Magnets\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDiaphragm Size\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e~80mm\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eFrequency Response\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e20 Hz – 20 kHz\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eImpedance\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e25–32Ω (varies by source; HiFiMAN lists 32Ω)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eSensitivity\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e91 dB\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDesign\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eOpen-back, over-ear (circumaural)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eCable Connection\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eDual 3.5mm TRS (one per earcup)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eIncluded Cable\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e3.5mm to dual 3.5mm with 6.35mm adapter\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eWeight\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003e385 g (~13.6 oz)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003ctr\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eEarpad Material\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003ctd\u003eHybrid cloth\/synthetic leather (angled)\u003c\/td\u003e\n\u003c\/tr\u003e\n\u003c\/tbody\u003e\n\u003c\/table\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"product-faq gsbp-ab3b28d\"\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003chr\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDo I need a headphone amplifier to use the HE400se?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYou don’t strictly need one, but you’ll get noticeably better results with a dedicated amp or DAC\/amp. The HE400se has a sensitivity of 91 dB, which is lower than most consumer headphones. A phone or laptop can drive them to moderate volume, but a headphone amplifier will unlock fuller bass, better dynamics, and a wider soundstage. Budget-friendly options like the Schiit Magni or the HiFiMAN EF400 are great starting points.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat does “open-back” mean, and is it right for me?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOpen-back headphones have perforated earcups that let sound pass through freely in both directions. This creates a wider, more natural-sounding presentation compared to closed-back designs. The trade-off is that people nearby will hear what you’re listening to, and outside noise comes in easily. Open-back headphones are best for quiet home listening — a dedicated listening room, a home office, or late-night sessions. They’re not ideal for commuting or shared workspaces.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat’s the difference between planar magnetic and regular (dynamic) headphones?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost headphones use a dynamic driver — a small coil that pushes a cone-shaped diaphragm. Planar magnetic headphones use a thin, flat diaphragm with conductive traces spread across its entire surface, driven by surrounding magnets. Because the whole diaphragm moves together, planar headphones typically produce faster, more detailed sound with lower distortion. The HE400se gives you that planar magnetic experience at a very accessible price.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow does the HE400se compare to the HiFiMAN SUNDARA?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe SUNDARA is HiFiMAN’s next step up, with a thinner diaphragm, slightly more refined treble, and premium build materials. Reviewers generally find the SUNDARA offers a bit more detail, better dynamics, and a more forward midrange. That said, multiple reviewers have noted the HE400se gets surprisingly close to the SUNDARA’s overall performance at a significantly lower price. If you’re on a budget, the HE400se is the better value. If you can stretch your budget and want the refinement, the SUNDARA is a worthwhile upgrade.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIs the stock cable good enough, or should I replace it?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHonestly, the stock cable is the most common complaint among reviewers. It works, but it tends to be stiff and hold its shape, which some people find annoying. The good news is that the HE400se uses standard 3.5mm TRS connectors on each earcup, so aftermarket replacement cables are widely available and affordable. We’d recommend budgeting for a replacement cable if cable feel matters to you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eCan I use these with my phone or laptop?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, the HE400se will work plugged into a phone or laptop headphone jack. However, most phones and laptops don’t output enough power to drive these headphones to their full potential. You may find the volume is adequate for casual listening, but the bass will sound thinner and the overall presentation won’t be as dynamic or spacious as it would with a proper amplifier. For the best experience, we recommend pairing them with a headphone amp or DAC\/amp.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eAre the HE400se comfortable for long listening sessions?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost reviewers find them comfortable for extended listening. At 385 grams, they’re lighter than many planar magnetic headphones, and the padded headband distributes weight well. The hybrid cloth-and-leather earpads are breathable. A few reviewers noted initial clamp force can feel snug, but this typically loosens with use. If you experience any top-of-head pressure, gently stretching the headband over a few days usually resolves it.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat else do I need to get started?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eAt minimum, you need a source device (phone, computer, music player) and the HE400se. For the best experience, add a headphone amplifier or DAC\/amp combo. If you’re streaming music, a service that offers lossless or high-resolution audio (like Qobuz, Tidal, or Apple Music Lossless) will let you hear everything the HE400se is capable of. And as mentioned, a replacement cable is a popular upgrade. Not sure where to start? Give us a call at \u003ca href=\"tel:+18009420220\"\u003e800-942-0220\u003c\/a\u003e and we’ll help you put together the right setup.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eDoes HiFiMAN offer a warranty on the HE400se?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eYes, HiFiMAN provides a warranty on the HE400se. For the most current warranty terms and coverage details, check with HiFiMAN directly or give us a call. Audio Advisor also backs your purchase with our own 60-day money-back guarantee — so you can listen, evaluate, and make sure they’re right for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003ch2\u003eWhy Audio Advisor?\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cdiv class=\"ec-titlebox-text\"\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"emoji\" role=\"img\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/17.0.2\/svg\/1f3b5.svg\" alt=\"music note emoji\" width=\"20\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e40+ Years of Expertise\u003c\/strong\u003e — Since 1981, we’ve helped over a million music lovers find the right gear.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"emoji\" role=\"img\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/17.0.2\/svg\/1f504.svg\" alt=\"repeat emoji\" width=\"20\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003e60-Day Money-Back Guarantee\u003c\/strong\u003e — Take your time. Listen, enjoy, and make sure it’s right for you.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"emoji\" role=\"img\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/17.0.2\/svg\/1f4de.svg\" alt=\"phone emoji\" width=\"20\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eReal Experts, Real Help\u003c\/strong\u003e — Our team is here to answer your questions at \u003ca href=\"tel:8009420220\"\u003e800-942-0220\u003c\/a\u003e, weekdays 9am–6pm EST.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"emoji\" role=\"img\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/17.0.2\/svg\/1f69a.svg\" alt=\"truck emoji\" width=\"20\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eFree Shipping\u003c\/strong\u003e — On orders over $49, delivered to your door.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg class=\"emoji\" role=\"img\" draggable=\"false\" src=\"https:\/\/s.w.org\/images\/core\/emoji\/17.0.2\/svg\/1f4b3.svg\" alt=\"credit card emoji\" width=\"20\"\u003e \u003cstrong\u003eFlexible Payment Options\u003c\/strong\u003e — Financing available so you can start listening now.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eWant to learn more about headphones and personal audio? Visit our \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/learningcenter.audioadvisor.com\/\"\u003eLearning Center\u003c\/a\u003e for guides, tips, and expert advice.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"HiFiMan","offers":[{"title":"New","offer_id":45981862690989,"sku":"NEW-HMHE400SE","price":109.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true},{"title":"Demo","offer_id":45981862723757,"sku":"DEMO-HMHE400SE","price":109.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0750\/3708\/1773\/files\/HMHE400SE_01_angle_2026__57406.1776095183.1280.1280_88df351e-131d-454e-a37d-58d1abe53148.jpg?v=1778167233","url":"https:\/\/www.audioadvisor.com\/products\/hifiman-he400se-planar-headphones","provider":"Audio Advisor","version":"1.0","type":"link"}