Sound – Vs Susvara
For this section I used the Auris Headonia, where I connected both Susvaras at the same time, allowing me to just switch between the units.
The Susvara since its release has always been one of the very best headphones on the market to me, but ever since I got to listen to the Unveiled version in Munich I kind of prefer the latter. The original Susvara still is an incredible headphone and it is quite different sounding from the new Unveiled version. To me this really is a good thing, as it makes them more compatible than replaceable.
The original Susvara wasn’t shy when it came to spaciousness, openness and sound stage, but the new Unveiled version does take this quite step further making the original sound more intimate. Not only has the staging improved in width, but the Unveiled is more spacious in mids (and other regions) as well.
The original Susvara also is smoother sounding, with a softer approach of the vocals. In general the Unveiled version is also more energetic and dynamic, where the original is a little slower (PRaT). The Unveiled sounds more natural, dynamic and easy on the ear.
In the original the treble focus was not something what everyone appreciated and this is very different now. Because of the fuller sounding Unveiled you get less of the bass vs treble contrast in the original Susvara. Yes, the new Susvara has more body, weight and it overall sounds fuller, punchier, tighter.
When talking about resolution and precision, the original Susvara already scored really well, but the Unveiled really takes it to another level. It sounds more refined and defined, the latter especially in the lower frequencies. That said, I have to say the sub bass presentation of the original was of a higher level, but it was harder to hear. Now you have more bass weight, but maybe not as refined in the sub region. The mid-section of the new Susvara definitely is more refined and more balanced, while the upper frequencies now have the better presentation. The good thing here is that you won’t have that treble feeling of the original anymore as the treble section now sounds fuller and more natural, making it easier on the ear.
Looking at vocals, they now have more weight than before and they stand out more. At the same time they still sound natural and it works really well in this fuller, more dynamic overall tuning.
Both the OG Susvara as the Unveiled are great headphones, but I have to admit I like the newest version more. Ever since it arrived the original has hardly gotten any play time, even though it was one of my favorite set of headphones. The Unveiled has clearly and easily taken over that position.
Conclusion
The new Hifiman Susvara Unveiled is a masterpiece building upon the legacy of the original Susvara. The Unveiled performs at a very high level where only a select few of the very best headphones on the market can compete with it.
If you do plan on getting the Susvara Unveiled, make sure that the rest of your setup can match its performance. While it is a bit easier to drive, the Unveiled does require a high-end DAC and amp in order to really hear what it is capable of.
If you are in the market for a super high-end headphone and already have a great setup, the Hifiman Susvara Unveiled definitely has to be on your shortlist. For me personally, the Susvara Unveiled is one of the best headphones on the market and as such it is easy for me to give it my Recommended Buy Award.
Summary
Pro
- Tuning & Performance (top marks)
- Drivability has improved
- Comfort
Con
- Price
- Can be damaged
- Magnet strength of the covers
- Requires a really good setup
Page 2: Sound – Intro, General, Synergy
Page 3: Vs Susvara, Conclusion, Summary
