The Sennheiser HD800S is one of the most recognisable headphones in the audiophile world. You’ve likely seen it before. It’s not new, but the HD800S is still a favourite among enthusiasts and has stood the test of time. We take it apart, dive into how it wears, and whether or not it’s still a good buy for 2024.
Build and Comfort of the Sennheiser HD800S in 2024
The HD800S is a lightweight, very comfortable headphone. The headband has good padding, and its large earcups have plenty of room. The padding on top could be better though. After an hour or so, some pressure might build up, which might be bothersome to those sensitive to headband pressure. For the most part, it doesn’t feel as robust as other high-end models, such as the HEDDphone, but that said the overall build is solid.
However, rest assured that the HD800S is still a very well made headphone, and it still shows its “Made in Germany” badge. The mesh is highly functional, as is the unique hinge system. However, the detachable cable connection could be improved. Plug and unplug is a bit fiddly and lacks the quick release feature some people like. If the cable gets caught, it will probably pull the headphones off your desk.
The one nice thing is that the ear pads are replaceable, and you can snap them on and off relatively easily. Aftermarket pads can be a bit more tricky to fit, but it’s possible. Overall, if you’ve used other Sennheiser models like the HD600, the process is quite similar.
Sennheiser HD800S Sound Quality: Subjective Impressions
The HD800S is legendary for its expansive soundstage, which is as good as it gets. And if you’re looking for headphones with a wide soundstage, this model is tough to beat. This is especially great for people who like a lot of space for the listening. The bass however rolls off quickly as is typical of Sennheiser’s open back lineup. The treble is lush but there’s a dip around 2 kHz which leads to a peak in the upper treble. However, this peak can make the HD800S sound bright, but not as harsh as say Beyerdynamic T1.
The vocals are clear, but they don’t have the intimate, close up feel as some Sennheiser models like the HD600 or HD650. Instead, the HD800S presents a more realistic, spacious presentation, especially in orchestral or classical music. It’s also an excellent choice for electronic music that needs precision because of the headphone’s fast attack and clarity.
Sennheiser HD800S Sound Quality: Objective Measurements
When looking at frequency response measurements, the HD800S has a great deal of bass roll-off and a dip in the midrange around 1.5 to 2 kHz. A prominent 6 kHz peak follows this dip and is responsible for the brightness some listeners perceive. The HD800S takes well to equalisation for those who prefer a more linear sound. Bass, mid-range and treble can be adjusted to make a huge difference to the listening experience, getting the headphones much closer to a neutral target.
Amplification and Power Requirements for the HD800S
The HD800S has a 300 ohm impedance and it needs decent amplification to sound good. It’s not the most power-hungry headphone, but pair it with a good amp—preferably a tube amp—and the experience can be taken to another level.
The high impedance design is really enhanced by a tube amp, which brings warmth and depth to the sound. The JDS Labs Element 3 is a great pairing with the HD800S if you’re looking for an affordable option. It helps to smooth out the treble so you get a more enjoyable overall experience without breaking the bank and it brings out the bass.
Conclusion: Is the Sennheiser HD800S Still Worth It in 2024?
In 2024, the Sennheiser HD800S is still a very good headphone. While it has its quirk (bright treble, bass roll off), the soundstage, imaging and comfort make it a strong candidate for any audiophile’s collection.
While it probably isn’t your go to headphone for every genre, for orchestral, classical, and even some electronic music, it’s hard to find something better. The HD800S is still one of the best choices out there, if you’re after the most immersive soundstage and precise imaging. However, remember that its unique sound signature won’t appeal to everyone. However, if you’re a fan of wide soundstages and top tier technical performance, it’s a headphone you’ll want to miss.
