This looks like another variation in the 9000 series. Has anyone heard these?
Also, if any of the moderators want to redo this post and make it look official I would not at all be insulted. This was just a quick write up and does not look fantastic I will admit.
Does this one have bass and clamping force? The original SHP 9500s were among the most bass-free headphones I’ve heard, and the clamping force was non-existent even on my fat head. They would fall off even if I tipped my head down to look at the floor.
Not at all sure. I do remember my 9500s being quite bass light as well. Not none existent, but definitely lacking. As for the clamp, I haven’t felt these so I couldn’t say. I know the clamp force was a Maggie concern for most people on the OG9500 but I found because it was so light and loose that it was extremely comfortable. It never really occurred to me how loose they were on my head. I’m sure if I looked up or down they would fall off easily.
The SHP 9500s are an OK gateway drug to open-ear headphones. But you can still do a LOT better in that category for only a smidge more money.
In terms of the laidback sound signature that the 9500 provides, what would you say is better for a smidge more? Just curious.
The HiFiMan HE-400se is a considerably better headphone than the SHP 9500 in every area. $109 new, much cheaper used. Planar-magnetic driver.
I had that headphone a few years ago. Maybe it’s just me, wasn’t a huge fan of it. It was good, don’t get me wrong, but it really did nothing wow for me. I sold it within a year and bought the 9500s again. Maybe I just prefer dynamics over planars for some reason. Owned a few and tried a few mid tier planars and always seemed to prefer the dynamics in the similar price range. Also, maybe because I’m Canadian it’s different but the 9500 is cheaper than the 400se.
OK. Well, then, I’m probably not your guy for advice.
I think the HE-400SE is a solid, entry-level headphone for its price. I think the SHP 9500 is one of the worst headphones I’ve heard. No bass, more grain in the treble than a Kansas wheatfield.
I’m far from a graph sniffer, but this one is pretty enlightening: Squiglink - IEM frequency response database by GadgetryTech
The pain in my ears when listening to them mirrored the pain in that graph.
Our ears and brains are very different. I sincerely wish you luck, man!
Not a worry man. Appreciate the input and opinions even if they don’t match my own. Helps me develop and understand my tastes more.
