The sound quality and planar magnetic Bluetooth headphones of the HiFiMan DEVA have made it popular amongst many people. However, comfort is one of the most important factors that can make or break a headphone experience and this is notably through the headband.. The design, material, ease at which it can be adjusted and the whole comfort level of the headband is factors that contribute a lot on the users’ views on the rather product especially when it comes to using it during a long listening session. Therefore, this review will only focus more on the headband that comes with HiFiMan DEVA, reviewing it in terms of its build quality, comfort and durability as well as in comparison with other headbands within the same market.
1. First Impressions of the HiFiMan DEVA Headband.
As you may have noticed with the unboxing of HiFiMan DEVA, the headband is the first thing that catches the attention of the users due to its simple and yet elegant configuration. The headband is not used only for the aesthetic side of the headphone but for the functional aspect of it too. This is another area where HiFiMan approaches the problem pragmatically, with encouragement of the product design for the majority of consumers and comfort being the only goal.
1.1 Look and Feel Of The Deva Headband.
Looking at the HiFiMan DEVA headband for the first time, it is obvious that there are both artisanal and modern attributes combined. It has a metallic body with synthetic leather inside that gives it a touch of class. The headband colour usually black or other dark shades, are pleasing to the eyes as they go well with the rest of the design of the headphone. The head band may look quite basic because HiFiMan has always cared more about the sound than the extravagant designs, but it still looks very chic and contemporary.
1.2 Initial Comfort Levels.
Many users for the first time have complained that the headband of the HiFiMan DEVA comes with some level of comfort though it may depend on the user’s head shape and size. Padding feels soft enough and sufficient to help distribute the weight from the headphones evenly without creating pressure points on the head. Being around 360g, the headphones may not be the lightest that any user can get but at least the headband does a good job in balancing the weight for most people.
2. Materials and Build Quality
The build quality of the HiFiMan DEVA headband is important considering the long use ahead of the users. HiFiMan has had some material selection which they have made purposely and it has been with focus on strength wear and comfort.
2.1 Metal Frame
In the cross section, the headband has a central core made of metal, which contributes to the overall strength and high wear resistance of the item. The metal structure provides a pleasant balance of rigidity and bending strength, which is sufficient for the splash-proof headband to comfortably fit on heads of various sizes without being excessively tight or loose. Headbands made from metals also tend to last structurally longer than plastics that can become degraded and brittle over time.
2.2 Synthetic Leather Padding
The HiFiMan DEVA headband incorporates synthetic leather around the memory foam padding that covers the headband which enhances the luxurious factor of the headsets. Since real leather is almost always used due to its durability and natural texture, faux leather also has its benefits, such as being cheaper and easily accessible. The padding beneath is also thick and pleasant to touch so as to reduce discomfort which may arise after long usage of the headphones. On the downside synthetic leather is not very enduring especially compared to real leather and this is even more pronounced along the edge where there is plenty of movement.
2.3 Breathability
The most apparent downside of the HiFiMan DEVA headband synthetic leather padding is that it is non-breathable. Individuals who tend to wear these headphones for a good number of hours, will probably feel that the wearing of the headband’s may make them sweat, more so in warm climates. Such is the case in most instances because synthetic leather does not relieve moisture as fabric or real hide does. Nevertheless, this is a small issue considering the comfort and support afforded by the headband at all times.
3. Adjustability and Fit
Adjusting the head band is an important attribute as its serves to help users of different head sizes wear comfortably the headphones. When designing the DEVA headband, HiFiMan has allowed room for several adjustments in order to enable every user achieve a comfortable fit.
3.1 Extendable Arms
There are extendable arms in the head band that can be adjusted to fit different head sizes. The arms glide with ease and emit a pleasant sound once they are in place. This construction feels solid and secure, and allows the user to make accurate adjustments without fear of the system becoming loose and ineffective over time.
3.2 Clamping Force
Rate the comfort level of the headphone by their clamping force which is the headband’s pressure on the side of the head. The cleats of the HiFiMan DEVA are moderate which is enough not to let the earphones fall off while maintaining comfort to the user. For the users with smaller heads, the clamping force may seem slightly less however this can be remedied by bent the metal headband in order to provide tighter fitting.
3.3 Adjusting the Headband Angle
With the HiFiMan DEVA headset, there is no built-in tilt or swivel motion incorporated into the headband design. However, the ear cups are capable of a small pivot motion to fit the contour of the person’s head. Such a retention motion enhances the fit allowing for better coverage of the ear while providing comfort and blocking outside noise.
4. Comfort and Usability over Time
When talking about comfort, it is not solely the ease of wearing headphones for a few minutes that matters, but how effective they are in use after a good number of hours. For audiophiles or professionals, who wear headphones for long periods of time, the comfort of the headband becomes very paramount.
4.1 Advanced Use Comfort
Most users of the HiFiMan DEVA headband, however, still have no complaints about its performance during long hours of use. Padded softness, coupled with a moderate amount of clamping force, allows the headphones to be worn for hours on end without much discomfort. However, as with any headphones, a few users may complain of mild discomfort after long usage of the device, particularly when the head strap is overstretched, or heaviness of the sonics causes discomfort.
4.2 Weight Distribution
The headband supports
the headphones in a way whereby most of the weight is carried across the top of the head and this prevents the development of pressure points with continued wear. This last point is very relevant to the DEVA as it is slightly heavier than normal headphones due to the planar magnetic drivers. HiFiMan has managed to design the headband well so that the excess weight is countered without compromising on comfort.
5. Durability and Wear Over Time
Although, initial comfort and build quality are very important factors to consider, the long-term durability is also another aspect that should be evaluated. For instance, a headband that begins to wear out after a month or two of use can negatively affect the overall experience.
5.1 Durability of the Metal Frame
The headband of the HiFiMan DEVA comes with a metallic frame that is solid enough. Unlike plastic frames which are also useful but with time they become brittle and are more likely to break, the metallic frame retains its shape and structure even with extensive use. The users who have had the DEVA for months or year state that the headband remains intact no loss or deterioration the functioning of the device.
5.2 Wear and Tear on the Padding
The headbands come with synthetic leather padding that is very soft but can be damaged as well. The cushions may be the first parts to wear off some padding even up to plastic regardless of standard codes of practice when the edge where the headband meets the head. This is also the case for people who use the earpieces for extended hours on a daily basis. Luckily, the padding can be changed when needed, although HiFiMan would do well to have tougher padding materials as alternatives.
5.3 Maintenance and care
Moreover, these cushions can be damage as well. Any correction that the unpadded headband may
have encircles or use introduces consists, storage of any – turned 3d shaped – the
headband will have shapes to defeat certain types of damage, of a foam-filled vinyl
covered headband, also stresses maintenance, cleaning upholstery with a damp cloth,
giving support even if not used.
When comparing the HiFiMan DEVA headband, it is necessary to analyse the price, design and weight relations of other headsets that fall into the same category as HiFiMan DEVA head Earrings or sit on the same price bracket.
6.1 Sennheiser HD 660S
The Sennheiser HD 660S is an open type of over ear headphone which also serves as a rival to the HiFiMan DEVA. With regard to the comfort of the headband, it can be noted that the HD 660S has a slight advantage of breathability, thanks to the fabric covered cushioning. While synthetci leather padding on the DEVA may offer a comfortable fit, it is quite lenient with head sizes causing discomfort to users with big heads. Each of the headphones is reasonably adjustable, yet the frame of the DEVA looks superior made out of metal rather than the plastic of the HD 660S.
6.2 Audeze LCD-1
The Audeze LCD-1 is yet another planar magnetic headphone designed to deliver the user great sound quality. The headband is made in such a way that the LCD-1 is smaller and lighter than DEVA which makes it ideal for small headed people. Nevertheless, DEVA’s headband control range is much wider and its overall construction is firmer which makes it more suited to those who value longevity.
7. Conclusion
To wrap things up, the HiFiMan DEVA’s headband is an impressive piece of design and an important part of the headphone experience. The headband is expertly designed – it is comfortable, durable, and adjustable, making it suitable for both casual listeners and the audiophiles. The synthetic leather cushioning could use an upgrade, particularly in breathability and durability, but the hard metal frame of the headband makes sure it stays intact even after heavy usage.
The headband of the DEVA has excellent functionality with several types of use, be it long hours of listening or professional audio work. In comparison to other headphones that fall within this price range, this at par with the level of comfort and build quality attained, only some little adjustments are needed to rival some of the affordable brands of headphones in the market.
All in all, if you want a pair of headphones that sound fantastic, are comfortable, and are durable, the HiFiMan DEVA headphones and their excellent headband design are not to be overlooked. As for the users who prefer an extended period of usage and resistance to wear, if taken care of, the headband will endure as long as the amazing planar magnetic drivers.