Lindy HF-110 Open Back Hi-Fi Headphone

BloodyPenguin

Headphoneus Supremus
Pros: Neutral Sound Signature, Controlled Bass, Thick Build, Storage Case, Removable Pads, Detachable Cable
Cons: Only one long detachable cable included, slightly tight clamping force
Let me just start this review by saying, I really like the Lindy HF-110.  They are great all around headphones that do a lot of things well.  Let me break that down for you.


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**(As always, all photography was completed by me)**
 
 
 
 
*Packaging*

Upon the open box, you will find a nice carrying case for the Lindy headphones.  Inside that case, you will find the HF-110 resting comfortable with in its supple padding.  Just begging to be used.

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*Accessories*

Included are the:
- Second Set of Protein Leather Pads
- Carry case with extra foam protection
- 3.5mm to 6.3mm 24k gold plated stereo jack adapter
- 3m, removable, balanced cable with colour coded, 24k gold plated connectors
 
The case itself is bulky, just like the HF-110, though it is still light and easy to carry.  It is nice to have a second set of pads as a backup, though if I am being honest, I wish they threw in some nice velour ones instead.  The Cable is built thick and strong, like the rest of the headphone.  The only issue with the cable is that it is kind of long; it would be nice to have a second one that is a little shorter.
 
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*Fit*
 
The first thing you will notice as you put them on is the headband has a decent amount of clamping force.  This pressure will subside after extended use, but you will still notice it.  The force is never painful, but it does remind you that you are wearing the HF-110 at all times.  Also, please do not try to bend the headband; it only flexes so much before it will break.  The protein leather ear pads are nice and because it is an open back headphone, never get too warm.  The pads are super soft and go around the ears nicely.  The HF-110 is not the biggest fan of people with glasses, like me.  I can wear both my glasses and the 110 at the same time, but not for too long without it becoming a little too uncomfortable.  Without my glasses on is when I enjoy the Lindy the most.  Then they are SUPER plush and comfortable all the way around up to the headband.  There is a nice amount of flex to the headband that allows for a good fit and seal.

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*Build*

The word I use to describe the Lindy HF-110 build – Thick.  These are tough, thick headphones that are coated with a nice soft plastic.  The plastic materials allow these headphones to be surprisingly light for their size.  The open back metal mesh blends nicely with oval ear cups, giving it a very pleasing and unique look.  Every part of the 110 looks like it can take a beating, like it was designed to be used and not hung in a glass case. 
 
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*Sound*

My favorite part of the Lindy HF-110, is the sound signature.   It is neutral and clear.  Let’s go over that now.

Bass – Controlled, yet present.  I feel like these were tuned to never waver or extend more than they can handle.  Instead, you get wonderfully balanced lows that can still pack a little punch, even if they do not have the most amazing sub-bass.  I just love that the bass is never overpowering, but always stays true and disciplined. 

Mids – How wonderful are these?  Quite is the answer.  I am sure it has something to do with the open back design.  Vocals come through loud and with much clarity.  I really like the mids.  I feel like this is the strongest point of the HF-110.  Not that the mids are forward, but that there is so much substance in the middle that helps give the Lindy headphones such a fantastic signature.

Highs – To my ears, the highs are perfect.  Not because they are the most detailed I have ever heard, but because they are so silky smooth.  Don’t read that as warm, no they go up the range to a well-tuned sweet spot.  I hate to use the term rolled off, because I feel that does not do the highs justice.  They are just where I think they should be, to complete an overall balanced sound.

Soundstage – The HF-110 does well here.  There is a wide, full feel to the music.  You are surrounded in well separated instruments and control.  Never do these sound messy or jumbled.  Sound stays true and never bloated.

Isolation – As the description states, these are open back and if there are people around you, they will hear your music.  Though, this is not a negative at all.  If anything, the open back is what gives these headphones so much extra; a wider soundstage, airier sound and the wonderful neutral sound.

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*Overall Thoughts*

There are a few things I would like to see, like velour pads and a smaller cable.  Though, these can easily be picked up aftermarket for a few extra bucks.  The HF-110 is a wonderful headphone and worth any extra you put into it.

Like the first line of my review states, I really do like the Linday HF-110.  They check off so many boxes of what I like in a headphone.  Great neutral relaxed sound.  No overabundance of bass.  They have a nice simple, light and comfortable build.  These are a VERY easy headphone to recommend to existing audiophiles, or to people looking to get into the world of Hi-Fi sound.
 
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BloodyPenguin
BloodyPenguin
@Brooko, I do have direct contact with them.  I'll see what i can do.
Brooko
Brooko
Thanks mate - really appreciate it.  In my "revisit" review of the HM5 I actually tried HD600 covers (just held/taped on), and was highly impressed with the sound.  So I if could get a pair of open housings, then I'd be over the moon.  It would be enough for me to get them out of storage again.
BloodyPenguin
BloodyPenguin
@Brooko, I have some bad news.  I spoke to a representative at Lindy and unfortunately they can only order the headphone as a whole and not individual parts.  I have one more contact I am going to try.  I will get back to you if I hear anything.
 
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