HiFiMAN HE1000 Unveiled

High-end grille-less planar magnetic headphones

The HE1000 Unveiled is the latest addition to the HE1000 series, HiFiMAN's high-end line of planar magnetic headphones. It brings the grille-less Unveiled design to this series. It is aimed at audiophiles looking for a reference headphone with precise stereo imaging and high transparency, without the amplification demands of the Susvara.

From an optimised grille to no grille at all

The original HE1000 and Susvara used grilles designed to be as open as possible. A planar diaphragm is so light that reflections from the grille disturb its movement. With the HE1000 Unveiled, HiFiMAN removes the grille entirely and leaves the diaphragm exposed. According to the brand, the sound becomes more detailed and open. Removable CNC-machined magnetic covers, the Magnetic Veils, fit over the earcups when the headphones are not in use, so that no metal object is drawn in by the magnets.

Nanometre diaphragm and Stealth Magnet

The nanometre-thick diaphragm is paired with the Stealth Magnet circuit: asymmetrical and double-sided, with a magnet gap and cross-section that vary on each side of the diaphragm. HiFiMAN claims lower distortion, a warmer sound and better stereo imaging.

Ready to plug in

At 28 Ω and 95 dB sensitivity, the HE1000 Unveiled remains within reach of a good headphone amp. Three cables are supplied, with 4-pin XLR, 6.35 mm jack and 3.5 mm mini-jack plugs: it moves from a balanced amp to a portable source without an adaptor. To drive it, see for example the Neurochrome TCA HPA-1 headphone amp.

Victor's take on video

Victor presents the Unveiled concept in the video "Des casques ouverts sont encore + ouverts !" (in French):

Specifications

• Type: open-back, planar magnetic, grille-less (Unveiled)
• Diaphragm: nanometre thickness
• Magnets: Stealth Magnet, asymmetrical double-sided circuit
• Frequency response: 8 Hz – 65 kHz
• Sensitivity: 95 dB
• Impedance: 28 Ω
• Weight: 450 g (excluding Magnetic Veils and cable)

In the box

• HE1000 Unveiled headphones with ear pads fitted
• 3 m cable, 4-pin XLR plug
• 3 m cable, 6.35 mm jack plug
• 1.5 m cable, 3.5 mm mini-jack plug
• Pair of Magnetic Veils
• Owner's guide