Sennheiser headphones: review of models for a wide range of consumers and what to look for when choosing + customer reviews

How to choose and what to pay attention to?

The brand has been a leader in the production of audio equipment for a long time. The line of headphones is voluminous, and choosing a model for yourself can turn into a real challenge.

To choose the right headphones, you should pay attention to the following:

• The presence of a wireless system is convenient when traveling, using headphones on the road and when playing sports. As a stationary option, wireless models are not always appropriate, and they cost an order of magnitude more.
• Full-size or in-ear – this factor depends on the personal preferences of the consumer. Full-size models usually last longer.
• The presence of a microphone will turn the headphones into a full-fledged headset, but will also add to the overall cost.
• Ear pad material – if you plan to use full-size headphones for a long time, it is better to choose ear pads made of fabric, they absorb sweat better.
• The energy consumption of cordless models is an important factor for long trips, since not all models can provide autonomy for at least 12 hours.

In addition, when choosing headphones, you need to distinguish the original from the fake.

Original headphones are sold from official resellers and cannot cost less than stated on the brand’s website.

The company also provides a 2-year warranty on its products.

Microphone quality

The Sennheiser HD 350BT's built-in microphone allows you to answer calls, but you'll probably want to turn it off to avoid giving the other person a headache. Headphones try to isolate your voice from external noise, especially on the street, because the resulting sound is creaky and too loud, sometimes even difficult to understand words.

A similar situation occurs on more expensive models, where the ability to make phone calls is added just in case. I would like a more serious approach from Sennheiser in this aspect.

Rating of the TOP 15 best models

Design and appearance

Sennheiser HD 350BT is sold in white and black colors, externally they look like they belong to the premium segment. The minimalistic design is reminiscent of the three-year-old HD 4.50BTNC from the same manufacturer, and the 450BT was designed to replace them.

Upon closer inspection, it becomes clear that the plastic housing here is clearly of worse quality than that of more expensive models from Sennheiser. However, the 350BT seems reliable and opens wide enough to fit any head. And even though the headband and ear pads here are not made of any expensive materials, they look good and weigh little.

If you put this model next to the HD 450BT, the only noticeable difference is that the 350BT lacks the silver stripe above the hinges. The headphones fold up, making them easy to stow in your backpack. Unfortunately, we don't come with a carrying case, whereas the 450BT does.

The best wired models

Sennheiser HD 559

A model with high quality materials and sound . Ergonomics ensured

soft ear pads and headband.

Do not cause discomfort even with prolonged use. Externally, the headphones resemble the HD 599 model in a different color scheme.

Functionality is somewhat limited compared to other models of the generation.

The sound focuses on low frequencies, while high frequencies may be characterized by the presence of noise and “sand”.

Specifications:

• Weight: 276 g;
• Impedance: 50 Ohm;
• Range: 14-26000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 108 dB;
• Fastening: headband;
• Membrane: 38 mm.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• detachable cable;
• Nice material of ear pads and headband.

Minuses

• tight bow;
• high price;
• specific sound of high frequencies.

Sennheiser HD 206

Closed dynamic headphones with high quality sound transmission . Light weight

soft ear pads and headband ensure comfort when using them, and high-quality plastic ensures long service life.

Passive isolation due to close-fitting ear pads works in both directions.

The sound quality is ensured by good impedance and sensitivity, and the standard range will allow you to enjoy the sound both during games and while listening to music.

The emphasis in sound is on low frequencies.

Specifications:

• Weight: 165 g;
• Impedance: 24 Ohm;
• Range: 21-18000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 108 dB;
• Mount: headband
• Membrane: 44 mm.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• low price;
• good sound insulation;
• long cable.

Minuses

• long cable;
• wire too thin;
• If used for a long time in hot weather, the ear pads and headband may become wet from sweat.

Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

Reliable wired over-ear headphones with comfortable soft ear pads and a padded headband.

This option is better suited for professionals who care about sound quality and lack of distortion.

For ordinary users, the model may be too expensive.

Noise insulation is performed at a height in both directions . The disadvantage is a small hum from low frequencies.

Specifications:

• Weight: 220 g;
• Impedance: 64 Ohm;
• Range: 8-25000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 102 dB;
• Fastening: headband;
• Membrane: 40 mm;
• Water protection: yes.

pros

• tightness;
• high-quality noise reduction;
• purity of sound.

Minuses

• high price;
• background at low frequencies.

Sennheiser IE 4

One of the most ergonomic and durable models . Quality material ensures

tight fit without discomfort.

The model can be used as a sports model due to its tight fit and durability.

Range and sensitivity create smooth sound with rich lows and mids.

The only downside users note is the lack of a cover included.

Specifications:

• Weight: 5 g;
• Impedance: 16 Ohm;
• Range: 10-18000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 106 dB;
• Mount: no;
• Membrane: 9 mm.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• strength;
• duration of service;
• smooth sound.

Minuses

• modest equipment;
• high price.

Sennheiser CX 300S

Classic wired vacuum headphones . Elongated shape fits most

people, which ensures their popularity, despite the high price.

The emphasis in sound is on high frequencies, but in general they are suitable for listening to music of any style, although users note a lack of mid frequencies.

The headphones are equipped with a microphone, which allows you to use them as a headset . The model is available in different colors.

Specifications:

• Weight: 12 g;
• Impedance: 18 Ohm;
• Range: 17-21000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 118 dB;
• Mount: no;
• Membrane: 9 mm.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• good microphone quality;
• sufficient volume;
• universal form.

Minuses

• high price.

Sennheiser HD 599

The model is unique in its line due to its finishing and the ability to detach the cable.

The design of the headphones differs from most standard models - ivory-colored plastic with brown eco-leather inserts.

The quality of the plastic is excellent, the soft headband and ear pads reduce the level of pressure and discomfort.

The sound is detailed, with well-developed bass.

The model is demanding when it comes to connected equipment and may conflict when connected to equipment that has a weak sound system.

The wire length of 308 cm can be both a plus and a minus when used.

Specifications:

• Weight: 255 g;
• Impedance: 50 Ohm;
• Range: 12-38500 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 106 dB;
• Fastening: headband;
• Membrane: 38 mm.

pros

• quality materials;
• ability to connect to a TV;
• long cable;
• soft headband and ear pads;
• high sound quality.

Minuses

• long cable;
• conflicts when connecting to budget smartphones and equipment with a weak sound system;
• high price.

Sennheiser HD 569

The model continues the line of the HD5 generation . The plastic case is reliable, made of

quality materials.

The earcups rotate slightly for maximum fit to your ears. Characteristic features of the line’s models are a soft headband and ear pads.

The headphones easily connect to most devices using an adapter or a standard plug.

The sound is detailed, spacious, with excellent resonance.

Priority is given to the mid frequencies, the bass is reproduced in full, but the high range suffers.

Specifications:

• Weight: 755 g;
• Impedance: 23 Ohm;
• Range: 10-28000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 115 dB;
• Fastening: headband;
• Membrane: 38 mm.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• design;
• strength;
• ergonomics;
• sound quality.

Minuses

• tight headband;
• high price;
• heavy;
• The sound at high frequencies suffers.

Sennheiser HD 600

Open headphones with metal mesh and plastic headband . Soft ear pads and

The headband provides comfort during prolonged use.

The downside is that open ear cups easily allow external sound to pass through, making the headphones almost impossible to use in places with high noise levels.

The sound is of good quality, but users note a specific “growl” in the lower range.

High and mid frequencies sound extremely impressive and natural.

Specifications:

• Weight: 260 g;
• Impedance: 300 Ohm;
• Range: 12-40500 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 97 dB;
• Fastening: headband;
• Membrane: 38 mm.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• design;
• ergonomics;
• wide range;
• availability of replaceable cable.

Minuses

• high price;
• quality drops at high frequencies;
• poor sound insulation.

Sound

The sound parameters declared by the manufacturer (AFC, SSD, BSD) are impressive. Eargonomic Acoustic Refinement technology is used, which works with sound, and additional software for more flexible settings.

A distinctive feature of the model is low resistance, which will eliminate the occurrence of extraneous noise on parallel flows.

The output sound is natural, without distortion of sound scenes. During bench tests, the delivery of high frequencies was noted, the transitions in which were smoothed. Therefore, even in the most difficult scenes, the sound does not turn into an unpleasant squeal.

Headphone frequency graph

As can be seen from the AHF graph, the model has several peaks in frequency formation:

• first – 300Hz-2000Hz;
• second – 4000Hz;
• third – 8000Hz.

Based on the test results, the following ratings were given:

• LF – there are no complaints, the bass corresponds to the declared characteristics, there is enough of it, and when listening, percussion instruments can be clearly heard. The headphones do not drone or resonate.
• According to experts, the mids The situation can be corrected with an equalizer.
• HF sounds natural, which is especially noticeable when listening to vocal compositions.

The dynamic range of the model is wide, detail and attack do not cause any complaints. The stereo panorama is not wide, but has good localization. Senheiser 380 Pro are demanding in terms of sound source and quality; they cannot be classified as players.

The best wireless headphones from Sennheiser

Sennheiser HD 4.50 BTNC

Over-ear wireless headphones with soft memory foam ear pads.

From the line for the general consumer, the model is considered one of the best. A high level of autonomy up to 19 hours is supported by high-quality batteries.

The sound is high-quality, smooth, detailed, although there is a slight lack of high frequencies.

The noise reduction system is both passive due to ear pads and active.

Specifications:

• Weight: 221 g;
• Impedance: 18 Ohm;
• Range: 18-22000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 113 dB;
• Autonomy: 19 hours with noise reduction, 25 hours without noise reduction;
• Membrane: 40 mm.

pros

• high-quality assembly;
• design;
• strength;
• active noise cancellation;
• Possibility of connection via cable.

Minuses

• narrow ear pads;
• low sensitivity compared to other models.

Sennheiser CX 6.00BT

Vacuum in-ear headphones operating via Bluetooth 4.2 . One of the basic

models, at the same time providing comfort in use and good sound quality.

Autonomy is low - up to 6 hours, but for listening to music on the way to work or school this will be quite enough.

An excellent option for those who are just getting acquainted with the world of wireless headphones.

Specifications:

• Weight: 14 g;
• Impedance: 18 Ohm;
• Range: 17-21000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 112 dB;
• Autonomy: 6 hours;
• Membrane: 11 mm;

pros

• ease;
• quality of materials and workmanship;
• connection to two sources;
• sound quality.

Minuses

• low temperature sensitive battery;
• Sibilance appears at high frequencies.

Sennheiser HD 4.40BT

Full-size wireless headphones with a sensitive microphone . They can

use both as gaming headphones when necessary to communicate with the team, and as a headset.

Easily connect to all types of equipment without conflicts.

All major codecs are supported, which, together with good range and sensitivity, gives the output excellent sound quality.

One of the characteristic disadvantages is the low-energy battery, autonomy lasts up to 6 hours.

Specifications:

• Weight: 225 g;
• Impedance: 18 Ohm;
• Range: 18-22000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 113 dB;
• Autonomy: up to 6 hours;
• Membrane: 44 mm.

pros

• support for most codecs;
• The sound quality does not depend on the equipment.

Minuses

• high price;
• poor build quality;
• low autonomy.

Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear Wireless

Conditionally wireless model with a neckband . Control in the form of a three-button block

located together with the microphone in the rim.

The headphones support connection with two devices.

Autonomy up to 10 hours with charging in an hour and a half is provided by high-capacity batteries.

It is possible to connect to equipment via a USB cable.

It supports most modern codecs, which ensures sound quality, which in headphones, according to reviews from owners, is considered one of the best in the line of wireless models.

Specifications:

• Weight: 53 g;
• Impedance: 18 Ohm;
• Range: 15-22000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 112 dB;
• Autonomy: 10 hours;
• Membrane: 8 mm.

pros

• voice prompts about connection and battery status;
• vibration;
• ergonomics;
• planting density;
• quality of materials;
• capacious battery.

Minuses

• high price;
• not suitable for sports.

Sennheiser Momentum Free

Compact headset, one of the most ergonomic and lightweight in the line . Ergonomics,

Silicone ear pads and magnetic casing ensure comfortable use throughout the day.

High sensitivity and good range spread provide excellent sound quality at high and low frequencies.

The mid frequencies are not affected.

The headphones support most codecs, connect to almost any technology, and have the ability to multi-connect to two devices.

Specifications:

• Weight: 40 g;
• Impedance: 18 Ohm;
• Range: 15-22000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 118 dB;
• Autonomy: 6 hours;
• Membrane: 8 mm.

pros

• ergonomics;
• a large number of codecs;
• high sound quality;
• compactness.

Minuses

• inconvenient case;
• high price;
• no sports bindings.

Sennheiser HD 450BT

Full-size wireless headphones with good ergonomics . Thanks to

The plastic headband weighs relatively little - 238 g.

The headband is not voluminous, but has a soft, thin fabric lining. The ear pads are made of eco-leather.

The autonomy is high - up to 30 hours, the advantage is that the headphones support a wired connection without loss of charge.

Noise reduction is passive due to ear pads and active, activated using a button.

The sound is focused on the mid frequencies, with the high frequencies slightly degrading the sound quality.

Specifications:

• Weight: 238 g;
• Impedance: 18 Ohm;
• Range: 18-22000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 108 dB;
• Autonomy: 30 hours;
• Membrane: 32 mm.

pros

• build quality;
• design;
• active noise cancellation;
• high autonomy.

Minuses

• high price;
• Noise cancellation is not the most effective.

Sennheiser RS ​​175

Wireless full-size headphones with high-quality secure fixation on the head.

Soft ear pads completely cover the ear, thereby providing passive noise insulation.

The headband with soft pads reduces pressure on the head. Autonomy up to 18 hours is provided by nickel batteries.

The sound is balanced, with two sound modes - surround and spatial.

In the first case, the emphasis is on low frequencies, the second mode gives a more lively sound with an emphasis on the mid range.

Specifications:

• Weight: 310 g;
• Impedance: 32 Ohm;
• Range: 17-22000 Hz;
• Sensitivity: 114 dB;
• Autonomy: 18 hours;
• Membrane: 32 mm.

pros

• design;
• ergonomics;
• two sound modes;
• possibility of connecting another pair of headphones;
• voice control capability.

Minuses

• high price;
• tight headband.

Maximum comfort for every day

But still, the main feature of the HD 458BT is the wearing comfort for everyone: the flexible sliding headband and soft cups are adjustable to any size and are suitable even for long hours of wearing.

As befits an everyday headset, the Sennheiser HD 458BT has a foldable design. The hinges are tight, there is no play either in the folded or in the open position.

The headphones fit perfectly into small spaces: even a belt bag will do. Considering that only a soft case is included, this feature is very important.

The fit is soft, comfortable and moderately springy. The headphones will not move off your head either during active movement or during sudden head movements.

It is unlikely that you will run in them: although the headphones are very light (especially in comparison), you can feel them on your head, and there is no protection against sweat. But after putting on the headset in the morning, there is no desire to take it off at lunchtime, as with many analogues.

Sennheiser ear pads are guaranteed to cover any ear size, tightly enveloping your hearing, providing excellent passive noise reduction.

With the headphones turned off, at least half of the street noise is cut off. The office becomes almost silent.

Sennheiser HD 660 S: updated version of the HD 650

For almost 15 years now, the Sennheiser HD 650 open-back headphones have been an indispensable companion for many music lovers. The manufacturer wants to continue the success story of the most popular Hi-Fi headphones with the HD 660 S, the starting price of which is 33,000 rubles. This model is almost twice as expensive as the HD 650 - so why overpay? Let's figure it out.

The new product has a balanced sound. Thanks to the highlighted mids and upper bass, it is warmer and more musical compared to the cold sound of the top-end Sennheiser HD 800(S). Critics, on the other hand, often lack the foundation of deep bass, and consider the HD 650's highs to be too intrusive. But all this does not in any way interfere with the success of the headphones, which ]Senneheiser[/anchor] itself is already calling a “legend”.

Technical specifications HD 660 S

Bottom line

If we put aside mercantile interests and talk only about the impressions received, none of the models that were new to me fully met my expectations. I'm not ready to endure discomfort when wearing them, even if the headphones sound good, and I'm certainly not ready to get bored convincing myself that the headphones sound right.

The idea that with a big budget you can buy yourself excellent headphones turned out to be vicious. First you need to find your sound, and then it will become clear what your budget is. Listen, compare, understand. Maybe your ideal headphones don't cost that much. However, the most important thing is that even a lot of money is always more pleasant to pay for your own sound, and not for a beautiful expensive toy.

PS: If you are interested in what I had to go through during the comparative testing of headphones, I invite you behind the scenes. The process, frankly speaking, was not easy, akin to riding a roller coaster.

Continuation: Stairway to Heaven: behind the scenes [continuation of headphone comparison test]