AudioFu
Warwick Alien Deluxe Hybrid 4 LH… ↓ 33.4% $671Allen & Heath SQ5 ↓ 28.8% $2,912Warwick Alien Deluxe 5 NT LH ↓ 27.8% $727Allen & Heath SQ5 Case Bundle I ↓ 26.7% $3,170Casio AP-S200 BN ↓ 23.9% $963Allen & Heath SQ5, Case, DX168/X… ↓ 21.7% $5,187Dangerous Music 2 Bus+ ↓ 21.0% $4,033Orange PPC212-COB ↓ 20.6% $586Orange Micro Dark ↓ 20.2% $195Seymour Duncan SHR-1B Hot Rails… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SHR1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Bridge… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Parchment ↓ 19.3% $122

AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best HiFi Headphones for Professional 2026

The top pick is HIFIMAN SUSVARA Unveiled ($9,859). Fostex TH1000RP Closed-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones gives you the most for the money at $3,349. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 94 models across 27 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 12, 2026

94models in this chart
27brands
$206median price
39price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All HiFi Headphones Showing: For Professional · clear
Price
Skill level
Brand

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. HIFIMAN SUSVARA Unveiled

    HIFIMAN

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    These SUSVARA Unveileds are truly something else – the resolution and soundstage are breathtaking. They're for the serious audiophile who demands the absolute best and is willing to invest in a dedicated, powerful amplifier to unlock their full potential. Expect a revealing, intimate listening experience.

    Pros

    • Stealth magnet design delivers exceptional detail and transient response
    • Nanometre diaphragm ensures remarkably low distortion across the frequency spectrum
    • Open-back design provides a wide, natural soundstage with excellent imaging

    Cons

    • High impedance requires a powerful amplifier for optimal performance
    • Significant weight can cause fatigue during extended listening sessions
    37AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker92
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$9,859 now
    $9,859€8,798 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  2. Audeze CRBN2

    Audeze

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    This high-end open-back headphone uses big electrostatic drivers to make bass feel physical and sound spread wide across the room. The light carbon frame and soft leather pads make it comfortable, but the heavy weight and missing electrical specs are notable. It suits audiophiles who want rich detail and deep impact without worrying about specific technical numbers.

    Pros

    • SLAM drivers deliver deep, tactile bass without distortion.
    • Holographic imaging creates a wide, realistic soundstage.
    • Premium leather pads offer a soft, comfortable fit.

    Cons

    • No impedance or sensitivity values are provided.
    • Open-back design may let sound escape in noisy rooms.
    33AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker52
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$7,564 now
    $7,564€6,750 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  3. HIFIMAN SUSVARA

    HIFIMAN

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    These SUSVARAs are seriously impressive – the clarity and soundstage are genuinely top-tier. They’re a fantastic choice for critical listening and audiophiles who demand the absolute best, but be prepared to invest in a good amp to get the most out of them; they aren't a plug-and-play solution.

    Pros

    • Stealth magnet implementation delivers exceptionally clean, detailed highs.
    • Nanometre diaphragm provides remarkably fast transient response and low distortion.
    • Open-back design creates a wide, natural soundstage surpassing many closed-backs.

    Cons

    • The 450g weight can cause fatigue during extended listening sessions.
    • Requires a powerful amplifier to truly unlock its potential; not easily driven.
    37AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker92
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$7,506 now
    $7,506€6,698 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  4. HIFIMAN HE-R 10 P

    HIFIMAN

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    This high-end pair uses special magnets and ultra-thin diaphragms to hit a massive frequency range from 10 to 60 kHz. You get three different cable options so you can switch between balanced XLR and standard jacks easily. It suits audiophiles who want maximum detail but need strong amps because the 30 ohm impedance is high. Just be careful with your neck since these headphones weigh nearly half a kilogram.

    Pros

    • Magnetostatic drivers offer powerful sound pressure at 100 dB
    • Nanometre thick diaphragm ensures precise detail retrieval
    • Interchangeable cables let you choose between balanced or standard

    Cons

    • Very heavy at 495 grams causes neck fatigue over time
    • No wireless option forces reliance on external audio sources
    37AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker92
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$6,835 now
    $6,835€6,099 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  5. Audeze LCD-5 Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones

    LCD-5s · Audeze

    7 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    This headphone uses a massive driver to punch out deep bass without losing detail. The leather pads are comfortable for long sessions, but the heavy build makes it tiring to wear all day. It needs a strong amp to work best, so it fits serious audiophiles who want rich sound. Beginners might find the weight and price a bit tough to handle.

    Pros

    • Huge 90mm driver moves more air for deep bass
    • Leather ear pads and headband feel soft on ears
    • FAZOR waveguide helps sound spread out clearly

    Cons

    • Very heavy at 475 grams for daily wear
    • High impedance needs a powerful amplifier source
    51AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand62
    • Lineup68
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker52
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$5,601 now
    $5,601€4,998 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  6. Meze Audio Elite Tungsten

    Meze Audio

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    These Meze Elite Tungstens are a serious statement in headphone design. The Isodynamic drivers produce an incredibly realistic and wide sound, and the build quality is frankly stunning. They’re perfect for the discerning listener who prioritizes sonic purity and comfort above all else, and has a dedicated listening space.

    Pros

    • Rinaro drivers deliver exceptional detail and a remarkably natural soundstage.
    • Luxurious materials like Alcantara and carbon fiber create a premium feel and comfort.
    • 32-ohm impedance makes them surprisingly versatile for various amplifiers and devices.

    Cons

    • The substantial weight (372g) can induce fatigue during extended listening sessions.
    • Open-back design makes them unsuitable for noisy environments or private listening.
    36AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker80
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$4,482 now
    $4,482€4,000 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  7. Fostex TH1100RPmk2

    Fostex

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    This headphone uses an RP driver that moves air instantly for crisp highs and deep lows. The maple shell gives the sound a touch of wood warmth that many prefer. It is heavy and needs a strong amp to drive, but the sheepskin headband and silk pads make it comfortable for hours. Choose this if you want a wired open-back with a unique natural tone.

    Pros

    • RP planar magnetic driver for fast, detailed sound
    • Maple wood housing adds natural warmth to the tone
    • Sheepskin headband feels soft on long listening sessions

    Cons

    • Heavy 420g weight may strain neck during extended use
    • Low 32 ohm impedance requires quality amplification
    34AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker58
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$3,677 now
    $3,677€3,281 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  8. Fostex TH1000RPmk2

    Fostex

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    This headphone uses planar magnetic drivers to get a wide frequency range, plus a nice wood shell for extra warmth. The sheepskin headband and silk ear pads make long listening sessions feel easy. It works best with high-end amps due to the low impedance, and the heavy cable means it stays put on your desk.

    Pros

    • Maple wood housing adds unique warmth to sound
    • RP planar magnetic drivers deliver deep detail
    • Sheepskin headband feels incredibly comfortable

    Cons

    • Cable is heavy and not detachable for portability
    • Closed-back design blocks out outside sound
    34AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker58
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$3,404 now
    $3,404€3,038 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  9. Meze Audio Empyrean II

    Meze Audio

    Not on Reverb yet1 finish at Thomann

    The Empyrean II is a seriously impressive set of headphones – the Rinaro drivers really do something special. The sound is incredibly detailed and natural, almost like listening through very high-end speakers. These are perfect for the discerning listener who prioritizes sound quality above all else and wants an immersive, open-back experience.

    Pros

    • Rinaro drivers deliver exceptional clarity and detail across the spectrum.
    • The Alcantara and leather ear pads provide luxurious comfort for extended listening.
    • Carbon fiber frame keeps the weight manageable despite the premium build.

    Cons

    • The open-back design makes them unsuitable for noisy environments or private listening.
    • High-end price point puts them out of reach for many audiophiles.
    36AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker80
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$3,361 now
    $3,361€2,999 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

  10. Fostex TH1000RP Closed-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones

    TH1000RP · Fostex

    2 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    This blue headphone uses maple wood and special magnets to make music sound rich and warm. The silk leather ear pads are very comfortable for long listening sessions. While the heavy cable adds durability, the weight is quite a lot to carry around.

    Pros

    • Maple wood housing adds natural warmth to the sound
    • RP planar magnetic drivers deliver deep, accurate bass
    • Silk protein leather pads feel soft and breathable

    Cons

    • Heavy 420g weight can tire your neck over long sessions
    • Driver size is not listed in the provided specs
    36AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand33
    • Lineup43
    • Price55
    • Specs0
    • Maker58
    ↓ 1.6%since Aug 17 · lowest so far
    $3,404 · Aug 17$3,349 now
    $3,349€2,989 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 94 hifi headphones

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Fostex TH1100RP Open-Back Planar Magnetic HeadphonesTH1100RP · Fostex
    Index 42↓ 14.7%
    42
    ↓ 14.7%$3,137€2,799
    $3,137€2,799Check ↗
  2. 12
    HIFIMAN HE1000 UnveiledHIFIMAN · 2 finishes
    Index 50↓ 18.9%
    50
    ↓ 18.9%$2,688€2,399
    $2,688€2,399Check ↗
  3. 13
    Austrian Audio The ComposerAustrian Audio
    Index 32Stable
    32
    Stable$2,800€2,499
    $2,800€2,499Check ↗
  4. 14
    ArcTec AB 92ArcTec
    Index 30Stable
    30
    Stable$2,688€2,399
    $2,688€2,399Check ↗
  5. 15
    HEDD HEDDphone Two GTHEDD
    Index 33Stable
    33
    Stable$2,408€2,149
    $2,408€2,149Check ↗
  6. 16
    Meze Audio PoetMeze Audio
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$2,240€1,999
    $2,240€1,999Check ↗
  7. 17
    Sennheiser HD 650 Reference HeadphonesHD 650 · Sennheiser
    Index 55↑ 3.7%
    55
    ↑ 3.7%$406€362
    $406€362Check ↗
  8. 18
    Yamaha HPH-MT8 Closed-Back Monitor HeadphonesHPH-MT8 · Yamaha
    Index 68↓ 16.7%
    68
    ↓ 16.7%$223€199
    $223€199Check ↗
  9. 19
    HIFIMAN Mini Shangri-LaHIFIMAN
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$2,150€1,919
    $2,150€1,919Check ↗
  10. 20
    Yamaha HPH-MT7 Over-Ear Studio Monitor HeadphonesHPH-MT7 White · Yamaha · 2 finishes
    Index 64Stable
    64
    Stable$212€189
    $212€189Check ↗
  11. 21
    Yamaha HPH-MT5 Closed-Back Monitor HeadphonesHPH-MT5W · Yamaha · 2 finishes
    Index 69Stable
    69
    Stable$133€119
    $133€119Check ↗
  12. 22
    Sennheiser HD 620SSennheiser · 4 finishes
    Index 57↓ 18.3%
    57
    ↓ 18.3%$256€228
    $256€228Check ↗
  13. 23
    HIFIMAN ARYA UnveiledHIFIMAN
    Index 45↓ 21.9%
    45
    ↓ 21.9%$1,400€1,249
    $1,400€1,249Check ↗
  14. 24
    Sennheiser HD 660S2Sennheiser
    Index 44↓ 12.0%
    44
    ↓ 12.0%$492€439
    $492€439Check ↗
  15. 25
    HIFIMAN ANANDA NanoHIFIMAN
    Index 43↓ 13.2%
    43
    ↓ 13.2%$369€329
    $369€329Check ↗
  16. 26
    HIFIMAN Edition XVHIFIMAN · 2 finishes
    Index 42Stable
    42
    Stable$447€399
    $447€399Check ↗
  17. 27
    HIFIMAN ARYA OrganicHIFIMAN
    Index 42↓ 11.3%
    42
    ↓ 11.3%$884€789
    $884€789Check ↗
  18. 28
    Sennheiser HD 600 Professional HeadphonesHD 600 · Sennheiser
    Index 45↓ 5.1%
    45
    ↓ 5.1%$335€299
    $335€299Check ↗
  19. 29
    Sennheiser HP 02-100Sennheiser
    Index 41↓ 5.7%
    41
    ↓ 5.7%$369€329
    $369€329Check ↗
  20. 30
    Fostex TH616Fostex
    Index 41↓ 18.9%
    41
    ↓ 18.9%$817€729
    $817€729Check ↗
  21. 31
    Meze Audio 105 AerMeze Audio
    Index 44↓ 25.1%
    44
    ↓ 25.1%$335€299
    $335€299Check ↗
  22. 32
    Sennheiser HD-490 PROSennheiser
    Index 39↓ 2.9%
    39
    ↓ 2.9%$380€339
    $380€339Check ↗
  23. 33
    Meze Audio 99 Classics 2nd GenerationMeze Audio
    Index 39↓ 6.9%
    39
    ↓ 6.9%$364€325
    $364€325Check ↗
  24. 34
    Avantone Planar the II RedAvantone · 2 finishes
    Index 38Stable
    38
    Stable$481€429
    $481€429Check ↗
  25. 35
    HIFIMAN ANANDA unveiledHIFIMAN
    Index 38↓ 1.8%
    38
    ↓ 1.8%$615€549
    $615€549Check ↗
  26. 36
    HIFIMAN Audivina LEHIFIMAN
    Index 37Stable
    37
    Stable$447€399
    $447€399Check ↗
  27. 37
    HIFIMAN ARYA StealthHIFIMAN
    Index 37Stable
    37
    Stable$738€659
    $738€659Check ↗
  28. 38
    HIFIMAN HE 600HIFIMAN
    Index 37Stable
    37
    Stable$929€829
    $929€829Check ↗
  29. 39
    Dan Clark Audio AEON 2 Open-BackDan Clark Audio
    Index 37↓ 11.6%
    37
    ↓ 11.6%$940€839
    $940€839Check ↗
  30. 40
    Sennheiser HD 550Sennheiser · 2 finishes
    Index 51↓ 28.7%
    51
    ↓ 28.7%$223€199
    $223€199Check ↗
  31. 41
    Meze Audio 105 SilvaMeze Audio
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$559€499
    $559€499Check ↗
  32. 42
    Meze Audio StradaMeze Audio
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$895€799
    $895€799Check ↗
  33. 43
    Meze Audio 109 ProMeze Audio
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$895€799
    $895€799Check ↗
  34. 44
    Meze Audio AstruMeze Audio
    Index 36Stable
    36
    Stable$1,007€899
    $1,007€899Check ↗
  35. 45
    Avantone Planar the II CremeAvantone
    Index 33↓ 1.4%
    33
    ↓ 1.4%$481€429
    $481€429Check ↗
  36. 46
    HEDD HEDDphone OneHEDD
    Index 33Stable
    33
    Stable$1,848€1,649
    $1,848€1,649Check ↗
  37. 47
    HEDD HEDDphone Two GT UnpluggedHEDD
    Index 33Stable
    33
    Stable$1,893€1,689
    $1,893€1,689Check ↗
  38. 48
    Austrian Audio The ArrangerAustrian Audio
    Index 32Stable
    32
    Stable$1,119€999
    $1,119€999Check ↗
  39. 49
    Grell OAE 2Grell
    Index 30Stable
    30
    Stable$559€499
    $559€499Check ↗
  40. 50
    AKG K702 Open-Back Studio Reference HeadphonesK-702 · AKG
    Index 45↑ 28.8%
    45
    ↑ 28.8%$201€179
    $201€179Check ↗

HiFi Headphones by the numbers

Measured across all 113 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $206 — half of all hifi headphones here cost less.

29
21
13
14
10
7
13
6
<$50$50–150$150–300$300–500$500–1k$1k–2k$2k–5k$5k+

How the AudioFu Index works

Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.

This chart covers 113 hifi headphones from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.

AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.

  • Demand40%

    How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.

  • Lineup20%

    How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.

  • Price15%

    Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.

  • Specs15%

    How completely the maker documents it.

  • Maker10%

    How deep the brand’s range is in this category.

Questions

What should I look for when buying hifi headphones?

Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.

How much should I spend on hifi headphones?

Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.

Are expensive hifi headphones worth the investment?

Higher-priced hifi headphones typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.

What are the best brands for hifi headphones?

Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.

Should I buy hifi headphones online or in-store?

Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.

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#1 · AudioFu Index 37HIFIMAN SUSVARA Unveiled · $9,859€8,798
Check price ↗
 Check price ↗