Hifiman EF499 vs EF500 – Comparison Review

Introducing the comparison review of Hifiman: EF499 vs EF500. Hifiman is known for its range of audio products, catering from entry-level to high-end. Now, they've expanded into the DAC/Amp market with the EF499 and EF500. In this article, I'll compare these two devices to help you make an informed decision. Stay tuned as I analyze their performance, features, and value. Let's get started.

Look and Feel
Both the EF499 and EF500 exhibit superb build quality, exuding durability and sturdiness. The EF499 stands out with its captivating black and copper aesthetics, accentuated by a clear front panel that creates mesmerizing effects under direct light. Conversely, the EF500 boasts a more professional and restrained appearance with its all-gray/silver design, evoking a sense of refinement and sophistication. While I personally favor the sleek EF500, both devices are impeccably constructed, showcasing Hifiman's commitment to crafting enduring and reliable audio equipment.

Design
The EF499 and EF500 not only sport distinct color schemes but also differ significantly in their internal configurations. The EF500 boasts Hifiman's advanced Himalaya LE R2R DAC, employing a sophisticated "ladder" method with resistors to ensure a natural and balanced audio output during digital signal processing. In contrast, the EF499 opts for Philips' R2R DAC, which offers a similar technology but may exhibit differences in performance compared to its counterpart. Notably, the EF500's utilization of the Himalaya LE technology, inspired by Hifiman's premium offerings like the EF600 and EF400, results in a refined and technically accurate sound profile. Hence, if you prioritize advanced design and cutting-edge technology, the EF500 emerges as the superior choice.

Soundstage
Having spent extensive time listening to both the EF499 and EF500 across various headphones, I must say I was thoroughly impressed. The soundstage of both devices is notably wide, providing ample lateral space and, with select headphones, an enjoyable sense of vertical depth. While the EF499 offers a commendably wide soundstage, I couldn't help but notice a slight artificiality that impacted imaging precision, unlike the EF500, which excels in this regard. Moreover, the EF500's ability to scale effortlessly with high-end headphones truly highlights its superior imaging capabilities, resulting in a more accurate and immersive listening experience that left a lasting impression on me.

Low End 
While both the EF499 and EF500 share a similar lower frequency range, they exhibit a bias towards midbass rather than sub-bass extension. However, the EF500 subtly reaches deeper lows, offering a punchier and occasionally boomy bass experience, despite not being the most dynamic. Nevertheless, both devices maintain a clean and neutral bass response, effectively reproducing low-end details and distinguishing bass notes within complex tracks such as "When Love Takes Over" by Helion. It's noteworthy that enabling oversampling enhances bass performance in both models, a feature uncommon in this price range, although the EF500 still stands out for its superior sub-bass response and overall dynamic presentation.

Mids
In comparing the midranges of the EF499 and EF500, I find them remarkably similar. Both amplifiers excel in detail retrieval, offering a lush and natural midrange thanks to their R2R designs. However, the EF500 edges slightly ahead with enhanced clarity and detail in vocals and instruments, elevating the listening experience. Despite this distinction, both devices maintain a natural and balanced midrange portrayal, ensuring solid performance for their respective price points.

Highs
When comparing the highs, the EF499 and EF500 stand out due to their distinct DAC chips. The EF499 offers plenty of sparkle but can sound somewhat artificial at times, particularly with cymbals. Nonetheless, at $299, it excels in detail retrieval, especially with entry-level headphones. Conversely, the EF500 boasts significant improvements in the top end, delivering a more natural and dynamic treble response. Overall, the EF500 emerges as the clear winner in the highs, providing a more enjoyable listening experience and setting a new standard for DAC/Amps in its price range.

Summary
In conclusion, my journey with the EF499 and EF500 unveiled their distinct appeal to different types of audiophiles. The EF499 pleasantly surprised me as an entry-level DAC/Amp, offering R2R technology at an accessible price—a boon for newcomers like myself. Conversely, the EF500's ability to elevate sound quality to mid-fi levels intrigued me, thanks to its Himalaya DAC architecture that seamlessly adapts to higher-end headphones. Both devices left a strong impression on me, showcasing Hifiman's expertise in blending advanced technology with affordability, making them standout additions to Hifiman's DAC/Amp lineup.

Hifiman: EF499 vs EF500 are available at  Audio 46