HIFIMAN Arya - Arya Stealth - Arya Organic :: Impressions Thread

[sennfan83261]

I own the HE-500 and the Arya's. Other Hifiman cans that I own are HE-6 (prototype modded) and the HEXv2. I have listened to HE-6 (4-screw and 6-screw) and the Ananda. Based on my personal preferences, I find that I enjoy the more forward, lusher mids of the HE-500 than the Arya's mids. I find that the mids of the Arya's are a little drier and noticeably pushed further back in the mix compared to HE-500's mids. Also, the HE-500's bass tends to slam more than the Arya's in the amps that I've tried: THX AAA 789 and Crown D-75A [speaker taps]; more slam for both cans on the latter than the former. Other than those two aspects, the Arya's beats out the HE-500 everywhere else. Larger, more coherent soundstage (a huge out-of-the-head sphere if you will), whereas the HE-500 is more L/R elliptical staging (not as far L/R as the Arya's) with the front staging being more closer to your face than the Arya's. With FocusPads on my HE-500, I find that center image to be not as coherent as I'd like it to be. The velpads on the HE-500 narrows the L/R width of the soundstage a little while presenting a more coherent center image.

Personally, I find the HE-500 to more forgiving than the Arya when it comes to alternative, indie rock, hard rock genres than the Arya, especially for poorer recordings. For example, I prefer to listen to the first couple albums from Black Sabbath (not really well-recorded, especially Vol. 4) on my HE-500 than the Arya.

 

[bagwell359]

I own the HE-500 and the Arya's. Other Hifiman cans that I own are HE-6 (prototype modded) and the HEXv2. I have listened to HE-6 (4-screw and 6-screw) and the Ananda. Based on my personal preferences, I find that I enjoy the more forward, lusher mids of the HE-500 than the Arya's mids. I find that the mids of the Arya's are a little drier and noticeably pushed further back in the mix compared to HE-500's mids. Also, the HE-500's bass tends to slam more than the Arya's in the amps that I've tried: THX AAA 789 and Crown D-75A [speaker taps]; more slam for both cans on the latter than the former. Other than those two aspects, the Arya's beats out the HE-500 everywhere else. Larger, more coherent soundstage (a huge out-of-the-head sphere if you will), whereas the HE-500 is more L/R elliptical staging (not as far L/R as the Arya's) with the front staging being more closer to your face than the Arya's. With FocusPads on my HE-500, I find that center image to be not as coherent as I'd like it to be. The velpads on the HE-500 narrows the L/R width of the soundstage a little while presenting a more coherent center image.

Personally, I find the HE-500 to more forgiving than the Arya when it comes to alternative, indie rock, hard rock genres than the Arya, especially for poorer recordings. For example, I prefer to listen to the first couple albums from Black Sabbath (not really well-recorded, especially Vol. 4) on my HE-500 than the Arya.

Questions on your HE-500

1. Mods? Fuzzor, screen off, O2 cables, damping material (dynamat etc.), MrSpeakers Ether Angled pads

I've now had 13 pads on my HE-500 - the Ether Angled are hugely better than any other pad - for soundstage width and depth (it's even more enhanced with no screens on). My 500 does not have as tall an image as the Arya, or the detail, but its left->right soundstage is better than the Arya I heard, depth and image specificity basically equal. Harmonic and timbre aspects of well recorded music - in favor of my 500 (yes with an EQ) and no, no EQ for the Arya. Even with those issues, I have NEVER heard a headphone in this era for $1600 better than the Arya. 10 years ago I'm snagging an HE-6 6 screw, and getting it treated.

 

[Resolve]

Any so-called 'review' channel that is actually a retailer is not to be trusted. They just want to sell products, not review them. It's a slippery slope and this is why you don't often see retailers trying to push their videos as 'reviews'. There are FTC regulatory issues around that, etc. not to mention moral ones.

I think you may have the wrong idea about the channel so I figured I'd try to clear this up a bit. I do not receive any kickbacks from brands/manufacturers whatsoever. I'm not told to say anything one way or another, by anybody, and I don't receive any monetary incentive based on affiliate links. So to me, it doesn't matter if the viewer buys the headphone being reviewed. I think you could be forgiven for assuming this is how it worked, because that certainly seems to be the more common influencer marketing loop, but I can assure you that's not what's happening here.

The channel is owned by headphones.com, but the website is a review and content site as well as a community with a forum to discuss all things headphones, not just a dealer. The YouTube channel is an extension of the community forum and review/educational content that lives on the site, and doesn't push for or have anything to do with headphone sales. We recently purchased a GRAS measurement rig to be able to publish measurements on the website as well so really it's just a place for all things headphones. Moreover, the review content on the site is driven by community members, so you'll see my reviews there but also articles from forum members as well, including negative reviews.

I'd like to think that the content put out on the channel speaks for itself, that the information is truthful and as objective as possible. Short-term sales might be negatively impacted by a negative review of a product that's sold on the site, but the long-term benefit of credibility and authenticity is far more important in my mind. That's why I have no problem giving negative reviews when they deserve it, and there are numerous examples of that already - and if you think this is just being 'sneaky', by all means let me know where you think the reviews are being dishonest or skewed. We all have framing effects and biases going on to some degree but I'd like to get the information I put out there to be as close to correct as possible. I certainly don't want to be wrong about a product any longer than I need to be.

You may have already made up your mind about it, but I'd encourage you just to give the blog and the community a chance, see what we're all about. It doesn't hurt to take a look.

 

[Mediahound]

I think you may have the wrong idea about the channel so I figured I'd try to clear this up a bit. I do not receive any kickbacks from brands/manufacturers whatsoever. I'm not told to say anything one way or another, by anybody, and I don't receive any monetary incentive based on affiliate links. So to me, it doesn't matter if the viewer buys the headphone being reviewed. I think you could forgiven for assuming this is how it worked, because that certainly seems to be the more common influencer marketing loop, but I can assure you that's not what's happening here.

The channel is owned by headphones.com, but the website is a review and content site as well as a community with a forum to discuss all things headphones, not just a dealer. The YouTube channel is an extension of the community forum and review/educational content that lives on the site, and doesn't push for or have anything to do with headphone sales. We recently purchased a GRAS measurement rig to be able to publish measurements on the website as well so really it's just a place for all things headphones. Moreover, the review content on the site is driven by community members, so you'll see my reviews there but also articles from forum members as well, including negative reviews.

I'd like to think that the content put out on the channel speaks for itself, that the information is truthful and as objective as possible. Short-term sales might be negatively impacted by a negative review of a product that's sold on the site, but the long-term benefit of credibility and authenticity is far more important in my mind. That's why I have no problem giving negative reviews when they deserve it, and there are numerous examples of that already - and if you think this is just being 'sneaky', by all means let me know where you think the reviews are being dishonest or skewed. We all have framing effects and biases going on to some degree but I'd like to get the information I put out there to be as close to correct as possible. I certainly don't want to be wrong about a product any longer than I need to be.

You may have already made up your mind about it, but I'd encourage you just to give the blog and the community a chance, see what we're all about. It doesn't hurt to take a look.

Thanks for that clarification. Do you follow the FTC guidelines outlined here regarding disclosing certain facts and your interest/compensation in your review videos? - https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/plain-language/1001a-influencer-guide-508_1.pdf

 

[donlin]

I think you may have the wrong idea about the channel so I figured I'd try to clear this up a bit. I do not receive any kickbacks from brands/manufacturers whatsoever. I'm not told to say anything one way or another, by anybody, and I don't receive any monetary incentive based on affiliate links. So to me, it doesn't matter if the viewer buys the headphone being reviewed. I think you could forgiven for assuming this is how it worked, because that certainly seems to be the more common influencer marketing loop, but I can assure you that's not what's happening here.

The channel is owned by headphones.com, but the website is a review and content site as well as a community with a forum to discuss all things headphones, not just a dealer. The YouTube channel is an extension of the community forum and review/educational content that lives on the site, and doesn't push for or have anything to do with headphone sales. We recently purchased a GRAS measurement rig to be able to publish measurements on the website as well so really it's just a place for all things headphones. Moreover, the review content on the site is driven by community members, so you'll see my reviews there but also articles from forum members as well, including negative reviews.

I'd like to think that the content put out on the channel speaks for itself, that the information is truthful and as objective as possible. Short-term sales might be negatively impacted by a negative review of a product that's sold on the site, but the long-term benefit of credibility and authenticity is far more important in my mind. That's why I have no problem giving negative reviews when they deserve it, and there are numerous examples of that already - and if you think this is just being 'sneaky', by all means let me know where you think the reviews are being dishonest or skewed. We all have framing effects and biases going on to some degree but I'd like to get the information I put out there to be as close to correct as possible. I certainly don't want to be wrong about a product any longer than I need to be.

You may have already made up your mind about it, but I'd encourage you just to give the blog and the community a chance, see what we're all about. It doesn't hurt to take a look.

Thank you for that explanation. I’m a recent subscriber to your YouTube channel and was curious about the relationship between the website and the reviews. Your reviews are definitely some of the most well thought out and articulate around. I especially enjoy the comparisons.

 

[Resolve]

Thanks for that clarification. Do you follow the FTC guidelines outlined here regarding disclosing certain facts and your interest/compensation in your review videos? - https://www.ftc.gov/system/files/documents/plain-language/1001a-influencer-guide-508_1.pdf

In short, yes, but since I don't receive any compensation from any brand there's nothing to disclose for that stuff. I do mention that I'm with headphones.com at the beginning of every video, I think that should be clear to anyone watching.

 

[Mediahound]

Even with those issues, I have NEVER heard a headphone in this era for $1600 better than the Arya

I can basically agree with this, with the exception of the HE6se, which is slightly better, but only with the right high amplification. HE6se is certainly not as comfy as Arya though. With some EQ'ing, I can actually get my Arya very very close to HE6se, yet with wider soundstage.

 

[bagwell359]

I can basically agree with this, with the exception of the HE6se, which is slightly better, but only with the right high amplification. HE6se is certainly not as comfy as Arya though. With some EQ'ing, I can actually get my Arya very very close to HE6se, yet with wider soundstage.

At $1899 list, probably not, but at the sweet price of $699 new (which what was it? 500 people got), it destroys all sorts of deals and cans including the Arya - but that wasn't a regular deal.

The big drawback with the 6se is that not only does it not do a decent soundstage, image specificity is sort of tangled. It has more impact in the bass certainly, and it has this potent feel overall - like a turbo diesel/ungloved fist. The Arya is more like a 12 cyl 6 liter Jaguar w/ the gloves. You get more spatial details, and a slightly finer sound.

I'm sure people will come after me - but the 6se is overall a better can the the HE-6 6 screw. If you take away the date of release, and grant that the original 6 has better bass impact by a large amount. But I think the mids in the 6 are recessed, and the highs a tangle of peaks and valleys with pretty serious ringing thrown in. Yes that makes the 6SE a tamer and more homogenized can, but its also listenable with but 1 EQ slider (+5 at 1720 Hz) , the 6 6 screw needs at least 8 of them to tame down. If I could get my hands on a Code SEX modded pristene HE-6 I'd gladly pay $1500 - but how often do they hit the market?

I'd also say that the mids on the 500 (with mods) are better than either 6 when you figure in soundstage and timbre/overtones, and also give the Arya a battle too.

 

[Mediahound]

To me comfort also plays a big role with the HE6se vs Arya. I just can't wear the HE6se nearly as long as the Arya.

 

[bagwell359]

To me comfort also plays a big role with the HE6se vs Arya. I just can't wear the HE6se nearly as long as the Arya.

6se isn't ideal - although better than the original HE-6 and HE-500. I rarely go more than :45 with any can including the HEX v2 which is pretty similar to the Arya. Actually about once a week I fall asleep with cans on my head, leaning way back in a comfy chair - then I get up to two hours of play time, but since elapsed time is :45 or :60 it doesn't feel like it.

The worse fit IMO is the old LCD-2 with the suck your head fit, god that was annoying, and of course, the manifestly wrong sound signature of the can (need a cut from 25-250 Hz, and a bucket load of help from 900 Hz - 20kHz - it's down 8db almost the entire way (or more) except from a hot spot at 10k (ringing fore sure and whatever else) couldn't wait to rid myself of those. Urgh! If I could buy a LCD-4 new for say $850 I'd be there, but $4k - no. Good customer service, but HFM runs rings around them in usable high end cans.

 

[ftlaudHP]

I'm really interested in trying these, but I'm not sure if they're a great step-up from the HE-500 or a good alternative with the Focal Clear. Has anyone here who had the Focal Clear and the Arya at some point give their impressions on the differences? I feel the side-step from the Clear isn't really worth the difference, but I'd be curious to hear other opinions on this thread. What I've gathered so far is I'll get better head stage, imaging, and sub-bass impact at the expense of losing dynamics Focal is known for.

Short answer: Owned both Clear and Arya. Two very different headphones. Clear is balanced and makes music seem more fun. Smaller sounstage by a large margin. Easy to drive. You can just put on a song a enjoy the music. Just enough bass to sound full. Imaging isn't as good. Less details. Arya is more analytical to me. Sounds are very seperated almost too much sometimes. Wide soundstage and has depth. Sound can even be vertical. Lacks bass to me and seems thin. Both cans are great. Owned both so I can choose based on mood. Just want to relax and listen and not look for different sounds - Clear. Want to listen for image separation and details grab the Arya. Nothing bad to say about either. No headphone I have heard yet is perfect. Don't think there is such a thing. My plan is to add or sell headphones if needed and upgrade. Sad to say I got rid of the Arya. I actually miss it. Might buy it again if I can't find a replacememt. Still own Clear for now, but I am not married to it. There are so many options I want to experience them all. Add in different amp and DAC pairings one can never run out of combinations. That is if your wallet can handle it. Still blows my mind some of the ridiculous audiophile prices on the market.

 

[descloud]

Short answer: Owned both Clear and Arya. Two very different headphones. Clear is balanced and makes music seem more fun. Smaller sounstage by a large margin. Easy to drive. You can just put on a song a enjoy the music. Just enough bass to sound full. Imaging isn't as good. Less details. Arya is more analytical to me. Sounds are very seperated almost too much sometimes. Wide soundstage and has depth. Sound can even be vertical. Lacks bass to me and seems thin. Both cans are great. Owned both so I can choose based on mood. Just want to relax and listen and not look for different sounds - Clear. Want to listen for image separation and details grab the Arya. Nothing bad to say about either. No headphone I have heard yet is perfect. Don't think there is such a thing. My plan is to add or sell headphones if needed and upgrade. Sad to say I got rid of the Arya. I actually miss it. Might buy it again if I can't find a replacememt. Still own Clear for now, but I am not married to it. There are so many options I want to experience them all. Add in different amp and DAC pairings one can never run out of combinations. That is if your wallet can handle it. Still blows my mind some of the ridiculous audiophile prices on the market.

Thanks for your detailed experience! It seems most of the anecdotes and articles I've read match with my current understanding of what the Arya's strengths are over the Focal Clear. This is kind of helping me lean towards the decision that it might not be a good side-grade for the types of music I listen to. But I would still demo them once I get the chance when the pandemic dies down.

Out of curiosity, what made you decide to sell the Arya?

 

[Fegefeuer]

HE-500 hits and slams harder and the treble while less microdetailed is less artificial, also less soft. He-500 vocal character is unbeatable for the Arya. Other than that Arya does a few things better which has been thoroughly detailed by others. HE-500 needs mods too.

I'd take the 6SE over the Arya any day, and I owned both. 6SE is more natural, better balanced, more heft, slam. Staging is forgiven yet no slouch. Been running them from a F6 Dual Mono Monster, US4+ and the Crimson. 6SE really love power and have that hard, tactile sound but Arya is also profiting from it.

HEK SE is another league than the Arya, just all around superior. Has its own problems though, in the upper treble for instance. Imaging is absolutely spectacular. Throws diffuse out of the window and renders ultrasharp and to the point, tall, deep and wide. Easily competes with the 800 there.

The price gab is an issue though. With the HEK v2 being discontinued I suspect new models for the next year.

Arya v2? SE v2? We shall see.

 

[Mediahound]

Thanks for your detailed experience! It seems most of the anecdotes and articles I've read match with my current understanding of what the Arya's strengths are over the Focal Clear. This is kind of helping me lean towards the decision that it might not be a good side-grade for the types of music I listen to. But I would still demo them once I get the chance when the pandemic dies down.

Out of curiosity, what made you decide to sell the Arya?

For me the Focal Clear had a sort of metallic treble distortion when turning it up. The Arya is a lot sweeter sounding in the treble and also seems to hit harder in the lower bass.

 

[N0sferatu]

After a good time calibrating I think I got a perfect EQ for this headphone.

If you're on Windows:
1.) Install Peace: https://sourceforge.net/projects/peace-equalizer-apo-extension/
2.) Configure the program to use your DAC
3.) Download my configuration file. It is NOT a ZIP file. I had to change extention for it to upload here. Change it to ".peace" instead of ".zip". Place it in the configuration folder of the program (usually C:\Program Files\EqualizerAPO\config).
4.) Launch Peace and chose my configuration file.

Enjoy!