At this point I have heard a few different dynamic driver implementations from HIFIMAN, most of which are headphones. Some of them have potential for sure, and I did think the newer HE-R9 was a more justifiable set than the more expensive HE-R10 dynamic version to where perhaps a V-shaped tuning helps showcase HIFIMAN's Topology diaphragm technology further. When it comes to IEMs, the TWS800 followed a similar trend but the fit and comfort there was a let down and I was waiting to see whether perhaps the brand's wired IEMs fared better. As it turns out, the new Svanar is easily the best dynamic driver offering from HIFIMAN I have heard to date! This includes also the RE2000 Pro Gold, another $2000 set that released a couple of years ago and continues to be sold for the time being.

The $2000 price point no doubt rules out the HIFIMAN Svanar for most people reading this review and those who can afford it are likely in one of two camps. The first are those who want to downsize, quite literally, to IEMs after a change of circumstances wherein they can't use headphones or speakers perhaps. The second set would comprise more experienced audiophiles who have used IEMs for a while now and have come to terms with the music genres/artists they listen to while also understanding better the sound signature they are looking for. A V-shaped tonality is one I have usually seen in more mainstream offerings and there are no doubt many who prefer it but want a better version of it. In that regard, the HIFIMAN Svanar should interest you.

I should clarify that the Svanar is not a perfect set by any means. There are some tonality concerns I have in the lower treble especially which dampens my enjoyment with the set and also takes away from the natural timbre I pretty much expect to see from a single dynamic driver set. Treble extension can be found lacking for some too although admittedly this is inherent to the dynamic driver platform itself—I have yet to hear a single DD set with good enough treble extension. At the same time, there's no denying this offers so much punch and impact to the bass notes. It's not only a lot of bass but good quality bass on top to where I could probably listen to a bass guitar twang off the Svanar on a loop and not be bored. I will also give a shout out to the excellent fit and comfort I've achieved here with some clever design involved here. The HIFIMAN Svanar isn't a set for everyone and yet has the potential to make some people very happy while no doubt interesting many others.