[Adam18]

Happy Holidays Everybody .....
I'm currently enjoying my Schiit Vali amp with both Grado SR-125's (with "G" pads) and Sony MDR 1A's.
Different presentations, but both with a sublime sound of music.  I've been toying with the idea of trying
"affordable" planners, and have been considering the new HiFiMan HE 400s.  But ..... today on Amazon,
the HE 400s and the HE 400i are both priced at $ 299.  What's the smarter purchase ?

 

[Adam18]

Just checked Audio Advisor ..... both the 400s and the 400i are priced at $ 299.   So, .... which way to go ?

 

[canthearyou]

400i, they are the better hp. And if you don't like them the 400s are always $300.

 

[Mr Rick]

I own both. I think I made a wise choice.

 

[Adam18]

Hi Rick .....
 
From your profile .... "HIFIMAN HE400S ( Just about anything.)
                                  HIFIMAN HE400I..( Classical, Vocalists )"
 
I see you also have the Schiit Vali amp.  Most of my "headphone enjoyment music" is
1950's -- 60's small ensemble jazz (Miles, Coltrane, Rollins, Brubeck, etc.)  
With that in mind, and considering that I'm only using a Vali as an amp ....
HE400s or HE400i ?  At the same price, which would you recommend ?

 

[Mr Rick]

  Hi Rick .....
 
From your profile .... "HIFIMAN HE400S ( Just about anything.)
                                  HIFIMAN HE400I..( Classical, Vocalists )"
 
I see you also have the Schiit Vali amp.  Most of my "headphone enjoyment music" is
1950's -- 60's small ensemble jazz (Miles, Coltrane, Rollins, Brubeck, etc.)  
With that in mind, and considering that I'm only using a Vali as an amp ....
HE400s or HE400i ?  At the same price, which would you recommend ?

I would go with the 400I. Both are very smooth but the 400I might have a bit more bass. YMMV