Sennheiser HD 800 s Review: You Cant Dethrone The King

Sennheiser has long resonated with audiophiles, professionals, and casual listeners. They boast a heritage steeped in precision-engineered sound and impeccable design. Over the decades, the brand has led innovation and performance; they often set the bar in portable audio. It’s the headphones I want to talk about today, specifically how the Sennheiser HD 800 S has achieved legendary status.

Stay with us as we delve deeper into this class-defining headphone, dissecting its every aspect to discern whether the HD 800 S lives up to its reputation and whether it remains relevant a few years after its release. After all, it is one of the highest-ranked headphones; ever on our best audiophile headphone list.

Design & Aesthetics of the Sennheiser HD 800 S

The world of high-end headphones is as much about aesthetic appeal as it is about sound quality. If you spend that much money, you should care how it looks. The Sennheiser HD 800 S is a testament to this blend of design and functionality.

Physical Appearance and First Impressions:

The HD 800 S is undeniably imposing and exudes a sense of premium quality. It’s evident that Sennheiser didn’t cut corners but also that they kept things functional. The headphones’ open-back design, with a silver mesh surrounding the ear cups, gives them an appearance that sits between professional and futuristic. The earcups are large and are not just for looks; they play a crucial role in delivering the wide soundstage these headphones are celebrated for while also creating a spacious, comfortable environment for your ears.

Materials and Build Quality:

Sennheiser’s quality shines through in the choice of materials. Nothing is luxurious by the Standards of Audeze or Focal, but they appear built for lasting decades, not just years. The frame is a combination of high-grade plastics and metals. While some might question the use of plastics in such a premium product, it’s worth noting that these materials have been chosen for their durability and lightweight properties. The metal components, on the other hand, provide added structural strength.

The ear pads are made of a plush microfiber fabric that ensures comfort during prolonged listening sessions. They’re durable and, importantly, replaceable, adding to the headphones’ longevity.

Ear Cup Design and Its Functional Implications:

One of the standout design features of the HD 800 S is the unique shape of its ear cups. Crafted to mirror the anatomy of the human ear, these ear cups serve a dual purpose. Aesthetically, they make the headphones distinct and instantly recognizable. I think they are cool and iconic looking on the head.

Functionally, they ensure sound waves are directed to the ear most naturally, enhancing the listening experience.

The design and aesthetics of the Sennheiser HD 800 S aren’t merely about looking good. Every design choice has a clear functional implication, revealing Sennheiser’s thoughtful approach to creating a headphone that satisfies both audiophiles and design enthusiasts alike.

Sound Quality of the Sennheiser HD 800 S

Ah, the heart of the matter! When you’re shelling out for a pair of headphones in the league of the HD 800 S, it’s the sound that truly counts. And these are good, really stupidly good. Sennheiser has a lot of great headphones, but these are considered the flagship open model (if we don’t include the $50,000 Orpheus, of course.), so the sound needs to be at a very high level.

General Sound Signature:

The HD 800 S has a balanced and open sound signature that is detailed and analytical. But it isn’t what I would consider overly analytical, and the best descriptor I could use to describe the sound is overtly natural. Despite being ruthless and revealing, it’s incredibly transparent and true to the source. Paired with a good amplifier and DAC, this headphone works wonders and provides (even in 2023) one of the most accurate representations of the music I have heard at any price point.

The jaw-dropping moments when listening are provided by the realism of the sound. Imagine walking into a room where every instrument has its space, playing harmoniously without overshadowing one another. That’s the sensation these headphones deliver.

Bass Response and Depth:

You might want to reset those expectations if you expect a thumping, club-like bass. The bass on the HD 800 S is more about precision, speed, texture, and detail than sheer power. The headphones have a good low-end extension, but it isn’t forced or enhanced like on some headphones. We get here what audiophiles want and an accurate representation of the music. It will show it if it’s in the track, but the HD 800 S does not add flavor to the dish.

It’s tight, controlled, and intricately detailed. You won’t just hear the bass; you’ll feel its texture and layers. The mid-bass stands out, though it’s exceptional in this area, very detail-rich, and adds an extra dimension to your music that might not be evident on cheaper headphones.

Midrange Clarity and Naturalness:

The mids, often described as the ‘heart’ of music, shine brightly with the HD 800 S. Whether from Adele’s soulful tunes or Freddie Mercury’s powerful pitch, vocals sound lifelike and intimate. Instruments, from the pluck of a guitar string to the resonance of a piano key, are rendered with impeccable clarity. Again, uber natural. The midrange is balanced, extremely clear, and spacious and displays an elevated level of detail.

Treble Details and Brightness:

The treble is where the HD 800 S has stirred a bit of debate. While it offers exquisite detail, capturing the subtle nuances of cymbals and high-pitched instruments, it avoids being piercing – to my ears, at least.

Some might say it’s been tamed compared to its predecessor, the HD 800, but in a way that adds to its overall balance, and I think that’s true, having owned both. The original HD 800, in truth, needed some modification to optimize the top end. Still, Sennheiser addressed this, and while the high notes on the HD 800 S have a beautiful shine to them, I never really find them fatiguing. If anything, I think it further enhances the soundstage.

Soundstage and Imaging:

This is where they truly stand out from the crowd. The soundstage is expansive, making you feel like you’re in a grand concert hall rather than your living room. Imaging is precise, allowing you to pinpoint the location of each instrument. It’s not just listening; it’s an experience.

The Sennheiser HD 800 S offers an immersive, detailed, and spacious sound. It’s not just about hearing music; it’s about experiencing it. Whether revisiting your favorite tracks or exploring new genres, these headphones promise a journey worth every note.

Comfort & Wearability

Regarding headphones you might wear for hours, comfort isn’t just a luxury—it’s a necessity. Let’s see how the HD 800 S measures up in this department.

Despite its substantial appearance, the HD 800 S is surprisingly lightweight. This means you don’t end up with that dreaded head clamp feeling after just a half-hour of jamming to your favorite songs.

Those plush earpads aren’t just for show. They cushion your ears, making long listening sessions easy and breezy. The microfiber fabric used for the earpads also ensures that things don’t get too sweaty or warm.

The headband of the HD 800 S is designed to distribute weight evenly. Plus, it’s adjustable, so whether your head is on the larger side or more on the petite end, you can find a fit that feels just right.

The HD 800 S features a quality cable long enough to give you some wiggle room. Whether you’re leaning back in your chair or dancing around the room (we don’t judge!), these headphones won’t hold you back.

No one likes taking off their headphones only to feel like they’ve just had a mini head massage (and not in a good way). With the HD 800 S, Sennheiser clearly understands the importance of comfort. So much in fact they appear on our list of the most comfortable headphones this year.

Whether deep-diving into a new album, binge-watching a show, or getting lost in an audiobook, these headphones are, in reality, designed for professional use and long hours on the head. In that regard, they are excellent in comfort, being both light and nonfatiguing.

Technical Specifications of the Sennheiser HD 800 S

Technical specs might sound a bit geeky to some, but they’re crucial to understanding what makes a pair of headphones tick. Let’s break down the HD 800 S without getting too lost in the jargon.

Driver Type and Size:

It employs a dynamic driver, which is pretty standard in many headphones. But what sets it apart is its whopping 56mm size. More significant drivers generally mean more potential for detail and clarity, and that’s the case here.

Impedance:

The headphones come in at 300 ohms. Without diving deep into electrical terms, you’d ideally want a decent headphone amp to drive these beauties to get the best out of them. They’re not your average plug-and-play earbuds; they deserve more power to shine.

Frequency Response:

They boast a frequency range of 4Hz to 51kHz. In simple terms, this means they can reproduce sounds from really deep bass (lower than what the human ear typically perceives) to super-high frequencies. This expansive range ensures you’re not missing out on any part of your music.

Proprietary Technology:

Sennheiser has incorporated its patented “Ring Radiator” transducers. This tech helps reduce distortion and ensure clear audio even at high volumes. It’s like having a personal sound engineer providing your music always sounds its best.

Recommended Pairings for the Sennheiser HD 800 S

FiiO

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Astell&Kern

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Chord Electronics

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So, you’ve got your hands on these beasts and are ready to dive into an auditory wonderland. But wait! These headphones can shine with the right pairings like a fine wine can be elevated with the right cheese. Let’s explore some gear that complements the Sennheiser HD 800 S perfectly.

Amplifiers:

Given the 300-ohm impedance, a good amplifier isn’t just recommended; it’s pretty much essential. Here are a couple of amps that audiophiles swear by with these headphones:

• Schiit Audio Valhalla 2: A tube amplifier that brings warmth and depth, pairing beautifully with the neutral sound signature.

• Chord Hugo 2: A portable DAC/Amp combo, the Hugo 2 offers clarity, detail, and power, making the most of the expansive soundstage.

For more recommendations at every price check our list of the best headphone amps.

DACs (Digital-to-Analog Converters):

A good DAC ensures that your music source is translated into sound with utmost fidelity.

• Benchmark DAC3: Known for its precision and neutrality, it’s an excellent match, ensuring every detail is captured.

• RME ADI-2 DAC: With its versatility and precision, this DAC not only complements them but also allows for some customization in the sound signature.

For more recommendations at every price check our list of the best headphones DAC’s. If you need more help understanding DAC’s check out this excellent article on Stozz Audio for more information about what is a DAC? and how to choose one.

Sources:

The source of your music plays a critical role in your overall listening experience.

• High-res Digital Audio Players (DAPs): Devices like the Astell&Kern A&ultima SP1000 or the Fiio M15 provide top-tier sound quality and can drive them sufficiently in portable scenarios.

• Vinyl: If you’re a vinyl enthusiast, pairing the HD 800 S with a high-quality turntable and phono preamp can be an auditory treat. Consider setups involving turntables like the Pro-Ject Debut Carbon and phono stages like the Schiit Mani for a rich, analog sound.

Here, you can read our list of the best DAP’s and music players you can buy this year.

While the headphone on its own is exceptional and does much of the heavy sonic lifting, the right pairings elevate its performance to even loftier heights. Whether you’re building an at-home listening sanctuary or wanting quality sound on the go, these recommendations ensure that you’re extracting every ounce of potential from these iconic headphones.

Value Proposition & Concluding Thoughts on the Sennheiser HD 800 S

 

 

The Sennheiser, while undeniably on the pricier side, positions itself as an investment in unparalleled audio quality. It’s a testament to the old adage, “You get what you pay for.” While they might not fit into everyone’s budget, for the discerning listener who values auditory precision, they offer immense bang for the buck.

Features Worth the Splurge:

• Exceptional Sound: As discussed, their sound quality is top-tier, offering balanced, detailed, and expansive audio experiences.

• Comfort Over Hours: Their ergonomic design and plush earpads ensure hours of comfortable listening.

• Technical Superiority: The technical performance is damn near perfect on this headphone, with some of the best transparency on the market. They are capable of performing with almost all musical genres and are even great for monitoring and technical listening.

A Closing Note:

In the realm of high-end headphones, the Sennheiser HD 800 S stands tall. They represent a culmination of years of audio engineering expertise, brought together in a design that’s as pleasing to the ears as it is to the eyes. While the price tag might seem steep at first glance, the value they provide, both in terms of sheer audio quality and comfort, justifies the investment. For those willing to take the plunge, thes still promises a class-leading performance, and they seem set to remain favorites in the audiophile community for years to come.

Read more about these headphones at the manufacturers website.

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