Headphones — HiFiMAN Sundara

The Sundara is a well-regarded open-back planar magnetic headphone from HiFiMAN, sitting below the ANANDA Unveiled with a somewhat more accessible position within the brand's catalogue. The Sundara brings HiFiMAN's considered engineering to an open-back, over-ear format.

Key specs that matter

The transducer uses electrostatic or planar-magnetic driver technology in an open-back, over-ear, wired configuration. Frequency response spans an exceptionally wide 6Hz to 75,000Hz within plus-or-minus 10dB. Sensitivity is 92dB SPL at 1kHz/1mW, with impedance at the standard 32 ohms - a combination making this planar-magnetic design easy to drive from a wide range of sources. Weight is 342g - the lightest within HiFiMAN's headphone comparison.

Sound and use context

Expect the exceptionally detailed, precisely engineered character HiFiMAN's planar magnetic driver technology is broadly known for, with the easy-to-drive 92dB sensitivity and 32-ohm impedance combination meaning this headphone performs well from a wide range of amplifiers.

Pairing

The easy-to-drive 92dB sensitivity and 32-ohm impedance combination make the Sundara compatible with a wide range of headphone amplifiers, including modest portable sources.

Alternatives

HiFiMAN's own ANANDA Unveiled offers a more accomplished alternative within the same broader planar-magnetic catalogue.