Shanling HW600 Review: A Neutral Planar Masterpiece?

This review delves into the Shanling HW600 headphones, a unique offering discovered unexpectedly at Munich High End. Arriving sans packaging, the HW600 immediately impressed with its exceptional build quality and elegant, understated design. The review explores the headphone's unconventional round planar driver within a square frame, analyzing its impact on sound and aesthetics. Particular attention is given to the comfort and fit, along with the high-quality materials used in construction.The Shanling HW600's sound signature is a key focus, comparing its neutral tuning to established competitors like the Sennheiser HD600, Audeze LCD-3, and Hifiman HE6se. We examine the clarity, detail retrieval, and overall listening experience provided by this unique headphone. Finally, the review concludes by weighing the strengths – its impressive sound quality and build – against a significant weakness: the lack of included accessories considering its price point. Ultimately, the review aims to determine if the HW600's sonic prowess justifies its premium cost despite its minimalist packaging.

Pros And Cons

Shanling HW600 Headphones
  • Neutral tuning
  • Nice build quality
  • Comfortable
  • Good clamp
  • 3.5mm pads for easy swapping
  • Clear and honest sound signature
  • Doesn't exaggerate any part of the sound
  • Expensive ($1100)
  • Doesn't come with box, carrying case, or stock cable

Read more: EPZ P50 In-Ear Monitor Review: A Breakout Performer?

Unboxing and First Impressions

My journey with the Shanling HW600 began unexpectedly. I received them sans box or carrying case, a direct result of a chance encounter at Munich High End. This unique acquisition added an element of intrigue to my review process. The headphones themselves immediately impressed with their build quality; a stark contrast to the lack of packaging.

Close-up of the Shanling HW600 headphones
Close-up of the Shanling HW600 headphones

The HW600's design is subtle yet elegant. The neutral tuning and build quality instantly make them stand out. The design clearly showcases a commitment to quality. The first impression suggests a premium headphone experience.

The reviewer holding the headphones without packaging
The reviewer holding the headphones without packaging

Design and Technical Specifications

The HW600 utilizes a unique round planar driver housed within a square frame, a design choice that sparked my curiosity. This unconventional approach aims for absolute horizontal distribution, utilizing silver-plated aluminum. While the technical details intrigue, the overall effect is both visually striking and technically impressive.

Diagram showcasing the round planar driver inside the HW600
Diagram showcasing the round planar driver inside the HW600

The earpads are another standout feature. Slightly angled, perforated, with cloth tops, and a surprisingly easy on/off mechanism. This clever design makes a simple action both functional and user-friendly. The comfort and fit are excellent, despite their relatively large size.

Close-up of the earpads and their unique design
Close-up of the earpads and their unique design

Comfort and Build Quality

The HW600 boasts an impressive build quality that feels robust and durable. The headband is notably comfortable and adjustable, featuring precise notching. This allows for a customized fit. The clamp force is well-balanced, providing a secure fit without being overly tight.

Close-up of the adjustable headband and its notching mechanism
Close-up of the adjustable headband and its notching mechanism

The materials used exude premium quality. The headband material feels like high-quality vinyl and is likely to withstand significant use over the years. While not overtly flashy, the overall design communicates a sense of understated elegance and durability.

Detailed shot of the headband material
Detailed shot of the headband material

Sound Quality and Comparisons

The Shanling HW600 delivers a remarkably clear and honest sound signature. Its neutral tuning is reminiscent of the Sennheiser HD600, but with a slightly warmer character. The clarity is exceptional, presenting a balanced and detailed listening experience. The presentation is both intimate and refined.

The reviewer mentioning the HD600
The reviewer mentioning the HD600

Compared to other neutral headphones like the Audeze LCD-3 or the Hifiman HE6se, the HW600 offers a different flavor of neutrality. It avoids excessive detail retrieval or a clinical sound, instead offering a natural and engaging listening experience. The overall performance is strong and consistently impressive across various sources.

The reviewer comparing with other headphones
The reviewer comparing with other headphones

Conclusion: Should You Buy the Shanling HW600?

The Shanling HW600 delivers an exceptional listening experience, characterized by its honest and balanced sound signature. Its clear, neutral presentation, impressive build quality, and comfortable design make it a strong contender in the high-end headphone market. The round planar driver is truly a unique and functional feature.

The reviewer showing the headphones without packaging
The reviewer showing the headphones without packaging

However, the lack of included accessories (box, carrying case, stock cable) for the price point is a significant drawback. If you prioritize a pure, uncolored listening experience and value build quality over bundled extras, the HW600 is an excellent choice. But, for the price, the limited packaging is hard to ignore.

Final shot of the reviewer with the headphones
Final shot of the reviewer with the headphones