Home / Headphones / HiFiMAN HE1000SE

Over-earReferenceNeeds amp

HiFiMAN HE1000SE

9.2
/ 10

Specifications

Impedance
38 Ω
Sensitivity
86 dB/mW
Type
Over-ear
Amp required
Yes

Score by configuration

No amplifier
5.5
Portable amp
8.5
Desktop amp
9.2

Max score assumes optimal full audio chain.

Analysis

The HiFiMAN HE1000SE is a reference over-ear with 38Ω impedance and 86dB sensitivity. At 38Ω, these headphones benefit significantly from a dedicated amplifier. Without one, volume and dynamics are noticeably limited — you're leaving performance on the table.

Your audio source matters more than most people think. Spotify High Quality is fine for casual listening, but with FLAC files or lossless services like Apple Music or TIDAL you'll hear a clear improvement — especially with reference headphones like these.

Own the HE1000SE?

Find out if your DAC, amp or source is limiting your sound.

Analyze for free →

Compare HE1000SE vs

HiFiMAN HE1000SE vs Thieaudio Monarch Mk2Compare →HiFiMAN HE1000SE vs Campfire Andromeda 2020Compare →HiFiMAN HE1000SE vs 64 Audio U12tCompare →HiFiMAN HE1000SE vs Noble Audio Kublai KhanCompare →

Similar headphones

HiFiMAN Arya Stealth9.2Audeze LCD-29.1Audeze LCD-X9.3