Sennheiser HD 800 S: Audiophile Excellence

With features like 56mm ring radiator transducers and open-back earcups, these headphones promise to deliver music in its purest form.

As a musician and audio engineer, I have found the HD 800 S to be a significant upgrade from my previous Sennheiser HD650. The build quality is exceptional, and the open-back design ensures comfort during extended use.

In terms of sound, the HD 800 S excels in clarity and detail, though it may lack a bit of bass. Adding an EQ correction like Oratory 1990 made these headphones perfect for mixing and mastering.

Build Quality and Design

Credit – amazon.com

The Sennheiser HD 800 S headphones boast exceptional German engineering, ensuring long-lasting durability. The headphones are large, covering most of the sides of the face, which might feel bulky to some users. The open-back design prevents the ears from getting hot during extended use, making them comfortable for long sessions.

Sound Quality

Credit – amazon.com

The HD 800 S headphones deliver a bright, crisp, and clear sound, particularly in the mid frequencies, which makes them ideal for mixing and mastering music. However, they might lack the bass that some users prefer. The sound is described as thinner compared to warmer models, but this can vary based on individual preferences and the use of EQ correction.

Driver Technology

Credit – amazon.com

Featuring 56mm ring radiator transducers, the largest drivers ever used in dynamic headphones, the HD 800 S offers an innovative listening experience. The absorber technology reduces unwanted frequency response peaks, ensuring all music nuances become audible. This unique driver setup contributes to the headphones’ impressive soundstage and detail.

Connectivity

These wired headphones come with two connecting cables: a single-ended 1/4 inch cable and a balanced 4.4 mm Pentacon cable. This flexibility allows users to choose the connection type that best suits their audio setup, enhancing the overall listening experience.

Soundstage and Imaging

The HD 800 S headphones excel in providing a wide and detailed soundstage, creating a three-dimensional quality in the stereo spectrum. The placement of instruments is precise, offering depth and space that enhances the overall listening experience, especially for genres like classical and jazz.

Frequency Response

The headphones have a smooth frequency response with no noticeable peaks or valleys. The mids are rich and clear, offering excellent separation between instruments. The highs are smooth and silky, particularly noticeable in orchestral music, while the lows are firm but not overpowering.

Suitability for Different Genres

The HD 800 S is versatile across various music genres, from classical and jazz to rock and modern pop. However, it is particularly praised for its performance with classical music and jazz, where the detailed soundstage and clarity shine the most. For bass-heavy genres like EDM, the headphones may not provide the punch some users seek.

Comparison with Other Models

Compared to other high-end headphones like the Sennheiser HD 650, the HD 800 S offers a brighter and clearer sound. While some users may find the HD 650 warmer, the HD 800 S is preferred for its detail and accuracy in the mid frequencies. The lack of bass might be a downside for some, but the overall sound quality makes it a worthy upgrade.

User Experience

Users with a background in music mixing and mastering find the HD 800 S to be an excellent tool for their work. The headphones reveal flaws in recordings, making them ideal for critical listening. However, they may not be the best choice for casual listeners or gamers who prefer a different sound signature.

Value for Money

The HD 800 S headphones come with a hefty price tag, but for audiophiles and professionals, the investment is justified. The law of diminishing returns applies, and while the headphones may not be ‘three times’ better than a $500 pair, the incremental improvements in clarity, depth, and detail make them worth every dollar for serious users.

Conclusion

The Sennheiser HD 800 S headphones are an investment, but for those who value sound quality, they are worth every penny. The expansive soundstage and detailed audio reproduction make them a top choice for serious listeners.

Whether you’re a professional in the music industry or an audiophile, these headphones will enhance your listening experience, revealing nuances in your favorite tracks like never before.

Questions & Answers:

Question: Are these headphones suitable for gaming?

Answer: While the Sennheiser HD 800 S offers exceptional sound quality, they are primarily designed for audiophiles and music professionals. Gamers might find other models more suitable for gaming-specific features.

Question: Do these headphones come with a warranty?

Answer: Yes, the Sennheiser HD 800 S headphones come with a 2-year warranty.

Question: Are these headphones wireless?

Answer: No, the Sennheiser HD 800 S headphones are wired and come with two connecting cables: a single-ended 1/4-inch cable and a balanced 4.4 mm Pentacon cable.