Hifiman Sundara 2021 vs Sundara Closedback!

Summary

In this review, Ajit Amit discusses the Sundar open-back headphones, comparing them to their closed-back counterparts and addressing mixed opinions from other reviewers. He emphasizes his personal preference for the open-back model, citing its tonal density and punchy bass. Despite some potential fatigue from the upper mid-forwardness, he finds the headphones to be resolving and a great value at $400. He also notes minor improvements in the 2021 version of the Sundara, making it a recommended choice for those seeking high-quality audio at a reasonable price.

Takeaways

• 🎧 The video is a review of the Sundara open-back headphones, specifically the 2021 version, by Ajit Amit.
• 🆚 The review compares the 2021 Sundara open-back with the closed-back version and discusses differences in technical performance and tuning.
• 👍 Ajit expresses a positive opinion about the Sundara open-back headphones, despite some reviewers not liking them.
• 🔊 The open-back version has a 'V-shaped sound' with a more punchy bass and upper mid-forward tuning compared to the closed-back version.
• 🎶 Ajit appreciates the tonal density and thickness of the sound, which he finds less common in high-end headphones.
• 📚 He references his experience with high-end audio equipment, such as the Sonus Faber Electa Amator III speakers, to contextualize his preferences.
• 👂 The headphones are described as having good resolution and imaging, especially considering their price point of $400.
• 👌 Ajit mentions that the headphones might not be for everyone due to their specific sound signature, but he personally enjoys them.
• 🔧 The construction of the headphones is noted to be rigid, which might affect comfort for those with larger heads.
• 📈 The 2021 version of the Sundara is considered an upgrade over the original, with improved resolution, imaging, and staging.
• 🔊 The bass is described as punchier in the 2021 version, with a slight roll-off before 40 Hertz that doesn't significantly detract from the listening experience.
• 👍 The review concludes with a strong recommendation for the Sundara open-back headphones, highlighting their value and performance.

Q & A

What is the main topic of Ajit Amit's review in the video?

The main topic of Ajit Amit's review is the comparison between the Sundar open back headphones (2021 version) and the Sundar closed back headphones.

Why did Ajit Amit decide to make this video?

Ajit Amit made this video to address the questions and requests from his audience after his initial impressions of the Sundar open back headphones, and to provide his long-term view on the product.

What is the TL;DR of Ajit Amit's opinion on the Sundar open back headphones?

The TL;DR of Ajit Amit's opinion is that he likes the Sundar open back headphones and stands by his preference despite other reviewers having different opinions.

What are some of the headphones that Ajit Amit mentioned he did not like in the past?

Ajit Amit mentioned that he has not liked or found issues with various headphones and IEMs in the past, but does not specify which ones in this script.

How does Ajit Amit describe the tonal density of the Sundar open back headphones?

Ajit Amit describes the tonal density of the Sundar open back headphones as 'thicker sound' with a fullness across the frequency spectrum, which he likes and compares to the sound of Sonos Faber Electa Amator III speakers.

What is the price point of the Sundar open back headphones that Ajit Amit mentions?

The price point of the Sundar open back headphones mentioned by Ajit Amit is $400.

What are the main differences between the Sundar open back and closed back headphones according to Ajit Amit?

The main differences lie in the technical performance and tuning, with the open back having a thicker sound, better bass texture, and a more v-shaped sound signature.

How does Ajit Amit describe the bass of the Sundar open back headphones?

Ajit Amit describes the bass of the Sundar open back headphones as punchy, with slightly more emphasis compared to the closed back version.

What is Ajit Amit's view on the construction and comfort of the Sundar open back headphones?

Ajit Amit finds the construction of the Sundar open back headphones to be rigid, which might not be comfortable for everyone, especially for those with larger heads, but the ear pads are still comfortable.

How does Ajit Amit compare the Sundar open back headphones to the Hifiman HE-6 and its variants?

Ajit Amit compares the Sundar open back headphones to the Hifiman HE-6 and its variants by stating that, unlike many hypermint headphones, the Sundar open back has a punchy bass and is more tonally thick.

What is Ajit Amit's final recommendation for the Sundar open back headphones?

Ajit Amit gives a strong recommendation for the Sundar open back headphones, stating that they are a fantastic option for the price with high technical performance and a pleasing tonality.