Hey audiophiles! Today, we're diving deep into a showdown between two popular headphones from Superlux: the HD662 EVO and the HD681 EVO. Both are known for delivering impressive sound quality at a budget-friendly price, but which one is the right choice for you? Let's break down their features, performance, and differences to help you make an informed decision.

Design and Build Quality

When it comes to design and build quality, both the Superlux HD662 EVO and HD681 EVO share a similar aesthetic, but there are some key differences. The HD662 EVO sports a closed-back design, which provides better sound isolation and prevents sound leakage. This makes it a great option for use in noisy environments or when you don't want to disturb those around you. The earcups are made of plastic, but they feel reasonably sturdy, and the headband is adjustable to ensure a comfortable fit. The padding on the earcups and headband is decent, providing a comfortable listening experience for extended periods.

On the other hand, the HD681 EVO features a semi-open design. This means that the earcups have small openings on the back, which allows for a more open and airy soundstage. While this can enhance the listening experience, it also means that sound isolation is reduced, and there will be some sound leakage. The build quality is similar to the HD662 EVO, with plastic earcups and an adjustable headband. However, the semi-open design gives the HD681 EVO a slightly different look and feel.

Both headphones come with a non-detachable cable, which is a common cost-cutting measure in budget headphones. The cable is reasonably durable, but it's worth noting that if it gets damaged, you'll need to replace the entire headphones. Overall, both the HD662 EVO and HD681 EVO offer decent build quality for their price range, but the choice between them will depend on your preference for closed-back or semi-open designs.

Sound Quality

The sound quality is where these headphones truly shine, offering impressive performance for their price point. The Superlux HD662 EVO delivers a balanced and detailed sound signature, with a slightly emphasized bass response. The bass is punchy and well-defined, without being overpowering or muddy. The mids are clear and present, allowing vocals and instruments to shine through. The highs are crisp and detailed, but they can be slightly harsh at times, especially at higher volumes.

Because of its semi-open design, the Superlux HD681 EVO offers a wider and more open soundstage compared to the HD662 EVO. This makes it a great option for listening to music that benefits from a sense of space and ambience. The bass response is slightly less pronounced compared to the HD662 EVO, but it's still present and well-defined. The mids are clear and detailed, and the highs are smooth and extended. Overall, the HD681 EVO offers a more balanced and natural sound signature compared to the HD662 EVO.

Comfort

Comfort is another important factor to consider when choosing between the Superlux HD662 EVO and HD681 EVO. Both headphones feature adjustable headbands and padded earcups, but there are some subtle differences that can affect the overall comfort. The HD662 EVO, with its closed-back design, tends to get warmer than the HD681 EVO, especially during long listening sessions. This can be a concern for some users, particularly in hot or humid environments. The earcup padding is decent, but it may not be sufficient for those with larger ears.

On the other hand, the HD681 EVO, with its semi-open design, allows for better airflow, which helps to keep your ears cooler and more comfortable. The earcup padding is similar to the HD662 EVO, but the semi-open design provides a more relaxed fit, which can be more comfortable for some users. Overall, the HD681 EVO tends to be more comfortable than the HD662 EVO, especially for long listening sessions.

Sound Isolation

When it comes to sound isolation, the Superlux HD662 EVO has a clear advantage over the HD681 EVO. The HD662 EVO's closed-back design provides excellent sound isolation, blocking out external noise and preventing sound leakage. This makes it a great option for use in noisy environments, such as public transportation, offices, or libraries. You can listen to your music without being disturbed by external sounds, and you won't have to worry about disturbing those around you.

Conversely, the HD681 EVO's semi-open design offers minimal sound isolation. External noise can easily leak in, and sound can easily leak out. This makes it less suitable for use in noisy environments or when you need to maintain privacy. However, the semi-open design can also be an advantage in certain situations, such as when you need to be aware of your surroundings or when you want to have a conversation without removing your headphones.

Key Differences Summarized

To recap the key differences between the Superlux HD662 EVO and HD681 EVO:

• Design: HD662 EVO is closed-back, while HD681 EVO is semi-open.
• Soundstage: HD681 EVO has a wider and more open soundstage.
• Bass Response: HD662 EVO has a slightly more emphasized bass response.
• Sound Isolation: HD662 EVO provides better sound isolation.
• Comfort: HD681 EVO tends to be more comfortable for long listening sessions.

Which One Should You Choose?

Choosing between the Superlux HD662 EVO and HD681 EVO ultimately depends on your individual preferences and listening needs. If you value sound isolation and prefer a slightly more emphasized bass response, the HD662 EVO is a great option. It's perfect for use in noisy environments or when you want to block out distractions.

On the other hand, if you prioritize a wider soundstage and a more balanced sound signature, the HD681 EVO is the better choice. It's ideal for listening to music that benefits from a sense of space and ambience. It's also more comfortable for long listening sessions, thanks to its semi-open design.

No matter which one you choose, you're sure to be impressed by the sound quality and value offered by these two budget-friendly headphones from Superlux. Happy listening, guys!

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, both the Superlux HD662 EVO and HD681 EVO offer exceptional value for their price. They each have their strengths and weaknesses, so the best choice depends on your individual needs and preferences. Consider where you'll be using the headphones, what type of music you listen to, and your comfort preferences when making your decision. With either of these headphones, you're getting a fantastic listening experience without breaking the bank.

Happy listening!