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The HiFiMAN HE-500 is an open-back planar magnetic over-ear headphone positioned as a more efficient, easier-to-drive alternative to the HE-6 while still requiring a competent headphone amplifier for best performance. It uses large planar magnetic drivers with a frequency response of approximately 10 Hz to 40 kHz, 38 ohm impedance, and around 89 dB/mW sensitivity, weighing roughly 500 g. The HE-500 ships with detachable dual-entry cables and multiple pad options including velour and pleather. Sonically it is widely noted for a natural midrange, deep and controlled bass, smooth yet detailed treble, and a slightly warm, relaxed tonality with good soundstage and imaging for an open-back planar. Although more efficient than the HE-6, it still benefits from a dedicated desktop amplifier. Introduced around 2011, the HE-500 has since been discontinued and remains a well-regarded classic on the used market.
Driver and acoustic performance characteristics
Headphone driver and design characteristics
Size, weight, and appearance
Specifications are community-contributed and may not be accurate or complete. Verify all details with the manufacturer before making purchasing decisions. Terms & Conditions
Estimated price (community-sourced)
Around — community and catalog average, updates slowly
Components that show up alongside the HE500 in real systems. A verdict means the pair has been checked for compatibility and headroom — open it to see how the two get along.
The closest alternatives on specs, description and the systems they turn up in, with the specs they share set side by side.
The HE6se's sensitivity is 83.5 dB against the HE500's 89 dB, its impedance 50Ω against 38Ω, its low-frequency extension 8 Hz against 10 Hz, and its high-frequency extension 65 kHz against 50 kHz.
Both turn up in the same documented systems.
The HE600's sensitivity is 94 dB against the HE500's 89 dB, its impedance 28Ω against 38Ω, its low-frequency extension 8 Hz against 10 Hz, and its high-frequency extension 65 kHz against 50 kHz.
The HE1000 V1's sensitivity is 90 dB against the HE500's 89 dB, its impedance 35Ω against 38Ω, its low-frequency extension 8 Hz against 10 Hz, and its high-frequency extension 65 kHz against 50 kHz.
The ERA-1's sensitivity is 94 dB against the HE500's 89 dB, its impedance 20Ω against 38Ω, and its high-frequency extension 40 kHz against 50 kHz. Both share low-frequency extension (10 Hz).
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