Shanling may not be on the radar of mainstream listeners who pay little attention to the high-end audio category, but the Chinese manufacturer of CD players, streamers and DACs makes rather good equipment and it was surprising to learn that they had yet to dip their top into the high-end headphone category. The popularity of planar magnetic headphones has never been higher and with so much competition from brands like HiFiMAN, Audeze, Dan Clark Audio, and Meze Audio, it is rather interesting to see Shanling’s HW600 come into the market priced over $1,000.
Can it compete? Let’s see what it has to offer.
The HW600 has an open-back design that incorporates a high-performance dynamic planar driver with an oversized 86 x 110 mm diaphragm, made with ultra-thin 8μm polymer materials.
The polymer material ensures rigidity and sensitivity, reducing distortion to deliver clear sound. The driver supports an extended frequency range and wide dynamics.
The HW600’s driver design also provides consistent, distortion-free sound, even at higher listening levels. For wearing comfort during listening sessions, the headphone cups are constructed from polished, aircraft grade 7xxx aluminum and the ear cushions are made of lambskin and are replaceable.
The open-back design results in a more natural listening experience, but there is some external sound intrusion.
The HW600 optimizes airflow through dual acoustic chambers, supporting spacious but personal soundscape. The design of the HW600 was based on the traditional way of creating bamboo joints, with the HW600 integrating the look into the unique triangular geometry of the earcups.
The HW600 features 14 neodymium-iron-boron magnets, in dual-sided magnet assembly, reaching a magnetic flux density of 1.8T, making the driver of HW600 relatively easy to drive (Impedance: 30Ω) and well suited for a wide range of amplifiers.
Listening Comfort
The headband and earcups are constructed from premium materials, including high-density memory foam, ensuring a soft yet secure fit for prolonged listening sessions. The earcups feature a three-axis swivel mechanism, allowing users to achieve the perfect fit, minimizing pressure and fatigue over long periods.
The HW600 headphones come with several cable adapters, including 4.4mm balanced and 6.35mm single-ended connectors. This allows flexible connectivity with any audio setup.
Specifications
- Headphone Type: Full-Size Open-Back
- Driver: 110 x 86mm Planar Driver
- Impedance: 30 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 104dB / ±3dB
- Frequency Response: 12-40000Hz
- Cable: 4 Core Single Crystal Copper
- Cable Plug: Balanced 4.4mm
- Headphone Plug: Dual 3.5mm
- Cable Length: 1.5 meters
- Weight: 480 grams (Headphone Only)
The Bottom Line
The competition for audiophile open-back wired headphones around $1100 puts the HW600 squarely against some very popular models such as the HiFiMAN Arya Organic and Audeze LCD-X among others. However, the Shanling’s do look like they could be contenders, but of course we’ll just have to wait and hear how they sound.
Price & Availability
The Shanling HW600 are available for $1,099 at Linsoul. International pricing is set at £1,099 GBP and €1,099 EUR. For additional availability check Authorized Dealers and Distributors worldwide.
For more information: en.shanling.com
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