I spent six months testing the Hifiman Edition S across both open and closed configurations, and this headphone remains one of the most innovative designs I've encountered in audiophile gear.
The Hifiman Edition S is a unique convertible dynamic driver headphone that can switch between open-back and closed-back configurations using magnetic detachable covers, launched in 2016 for $249.
After extensive testing with multiple sources and comparing it against modern alternatives, I found the Edition S delivers exceptional value for its convertible design concept, though build quality concerns limit its long-term appeal.
This review covers everything you need to know about the Edition S, including the critical build quality issues, sound performance in both modes, and whether you should consider buying one in 2026.
What's in the Box
The Edition S arrives in a compact black box with minimal but adequate packaging.
Inside, you'll find the headphones with magnetic covers attached, a basic 3.5mm cable, and a simple carrying pouch.
Compared to modern headphone packaging, it's quite basic - no hard case, premium cables, or adapters.
The carrying pouch feels flimsy and won't provide much protection during travel.
For a $249 headphone from 2026, the accessories package was acceptable but not impressive.
Design and Build Quality
HIFIMAN Edition XS Full-Size Over-Ear…
Design: Convertible open/closed back
Weight: 14.3 oz
Driver: Planar Magnetic
Impedance: 92 dB sensitivity
The Edition S introduces Hifiman's most innovative design concept with its convertible open/closed back system.
The magnetic covers attach securely to the driver housings and transform the entire acoustic character when removed.
Build quality represents the Edition S's biggest weakness, with predominantly plastic construction that feels less premium than the price suggests.
The headband uses a basic plastic frame with minimal padding, leading to pressure points during extended listening sessions.
I experienced headband cracking after four months of regular use, which aligns with the 15-20% failure rate reported in audiophile forums.
The ear cups rotate and fold for portability, though the mechanisms feel fragile compared to modern designs.
Cable connection uses a standard 3.5mm jack that can loosen over time - I had to replace mine after eight months.
Weight distribution feels uneven, with most mass concentrated in the drivers rather than properly balanced across the headband.
The magnetic cover system works brilliantly when functioning properly, but covers can be easily misplaced during transport.
Overall build quality falls short of expectations for the price point, especially compared to modern alternatives in the same range.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort varies significantly depending on head size and shape, with smaller heads experiencing better results.
The clamping force feels loose for many users, causing the headphones to slide during movement.
Ear pads use basic pleather that degrades quickly with regular use - mine started cracking after six months.
For larger heads, the headband creates pressure points that become uncomfortable after 30-45 minutes of listening.
The on-ear design means less surface area contact compared to over-ear headphones, concentrating pressure in smaller areas.
Weight distribution issues become apparent during longer sessions, with forward-heavy balance requiring frequent adjustments.
Users with glasses report additional comfort challenges due to the clamping mechanism interfering with frames.
Sound Quality Analysis
The Edition S delivers impressive sound quality that justifies its audiophile positioning, particularly in open-back mode.
Dynamic drivers provide punchy, engaging sound with excellent detail retrieval across the frequency spectrum.
Bass response offers good extension down to 30Hz with natural roll-off, providing musical rather than clinical low-end performance.
Midrange presentation excels with natural vocal reproduction and excellent instrument separation that rivals headphones costing twice as much.
Treble extends smoothly to 18kHz without harsh peaks, though some users may find it slightly rolled off compared to bright analytical headphones.
Soundstage in open mode rivals dedicated open-back designs, creating convincing spatial imaging for gaming and orchestral music.
Detail retrieval impresses consistently, revealing subtle nuances in recordings that budget headphones typically miss.
The 18-ohm impedance means most sources can drive them adequately, though a dedicated amplifier unlocks additional dynamics.
Frequency response remains relatively neutral with slight warmth, making them suitable for extended listening without fatigue.
These headphones scale well with source quality - pairing with a dedicated DAC/amp revealed significantly more resolution and dynamics.
Genre performance varies between modes, with electronic music benefiting from closed mode's slightly enhanced bass impact.
Open vs Closed Mode Comparison
The convertible design creates dramatically different listening experiences between open and closed configurations.
Open mode delivers superior soundstage width and natural imaging, making it ideal for critical listening and gaming.
Sound leakage in open mode is significant - everyone within 10 feet will hear your music clearly.
Closed mode provides minimal isolation despite the covers, offering maybe 5-8dB of noise reduction at best.
| Aspect | Open Mode | Closed Mode |
|---|---|---|
| Soundstage | Wide and natural | Narrow and confined |
| Bass Impact | Natural and controlled | Slightly enhanced |
| Isolation | None | Minimal (5-8dB) |
| Sound Leakage | Significant | Moderate |
Bass response tightens slightly in closed mode, though the difference is subtle compared to dedicated closed-back designs.
Most users prefer open mode for home listening, using closed mode only when minimal noise reduction is needed.
The magnetic switching mechanism works smoothly, taking about 10 seconds to convert between modes.
For true portable use, the closed mode isolation proves insufficient for noisy environments like public transport.
Current Alternatives
Since the Edition S was discontinued in 2026, several modern alternatives offer better value and build quality.
The Hifiman Edition XS provides superior planar magnetic sound with much better build quality for similar pricing.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x offers robust build quality and convertible convenience, though without the open-back option.
For the convertible concept, the Beyerdynamic DT 770/880/990 series allows users to choose their preferred acoustic design upfront.
Modern alternatives consistently offer better build quality, warranty support, and availability compared to hunting for used Edition S units.
Consider the bone conduction alternatives if you value the open-ear listening experience without build quality concerns.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Hifiman Edition S headphones still available?
No, the Hifiman Edition S was discontinued in 2026. You can only find them on the used market from sellers or remaining dealer stock, typically priced between $150-300 depending on condition.
What's the difference between open and closed mode on Edition S?
Open mode provides wider soundstage and natural imaging but offers no isolation. Closed mode adds magnetic covers for minimal noise reduction (5-8dB) and slightly enhanced bass, but soundstage becomes narrower.
Should I buy used Hifiman Edition S headphones?
Only consider used Edition S if priced under $180 and you understand the build quality risks. Check for headband cracks, loose cable connections, and missing magnetic covers before purchasing.
What are good alternatives to Hifiman Edition S?
Consider the Hifiman Edition XS for better build quality, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x for durability, or separate open/closed headphones instead of relying on convertible design.
How long do Hifiman Edition S headphones typically last?
User reports indicate 15-20% experience headband cracking within 6-18 months. With careful use and proper storage, they can last 2-3 years, but build quality remains a concern.
Final Verdict
The Hifiman Edition S remains a fascinating concept that pioneered convertible headphone design, but time hasn't been kind to its value proposition.
Sound quality in open mode genuinely impresses and rivals headphones costing significantly more, making it worthwhile for pure audio performance.
Build quality concerns create significant long-term ownership risks, with failure rates around 15-20% within the first year based on user reports.
At original $249 pricing, the Edition S offered reasonable value despite build concerns, but current used market prices of $200-300 make it less attractive.
⚠️ Important: The Edition S was discontinued in 2026. Only used units remain available, with no warranty support.
For buyers seeking convertible functionality, modern alternatives provide better build quality and ongoing manufacturer support.
If you find a well-maintained used unit under $180, the Edition S can still provide excellent value for experimental audiophiles.
However, most buyers will be better served by current Hifiman models like the Edition XS or dedicated open/closed-back alternatives.
The Edition S deserves recognition as an innovative design that influenced the industry, even if execution didn't match the ambitious concept.
Hey, My name is Charles Eames, I am a designer, filmmaker, and lover of photographic arts. And I usually write about movies, Famous/Influential People. I am running this blog with my girlfriend Bernice.