The 9 best Sennheiser headphones

On today’s market there are a huge number of manufacturers of all kinds of electronics and accessories, and the number of units of the product itself is beyond comprehension. Against this background, highly specialized manufacturers, especially those with a deep history, are of increasing interest. In the context of today’s review, the German company Sennheiser, which for over 70 years specializes in the production of high-quality semi-professional and professional radio equipment, and for the most part – means of audio communication, broadcasting, any other way of listening.

Rating of the best headphones Sennheiser

Nomination	seat	product name	price
Best in-ear headphones (earplugs) Sennheiser	1	Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear Wireless	8 500€
2	Sennheiser CX 6.00BT	5 000€
3	Sennheiser IE 4	2 890€
Sennheiser’s best over-the-ear headphones	1	Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Wireless (M2 OEBT)	12 189€
2	Sennheiser HD 25	10 690€
3	Sennheiser HD 2.20S	3 150€
The best full-size headphones Sennheiser	1	Sennheiser HD 800	54 990€
2	Sennheiser HD 650	21 340€
3	Sennheiser Momentum Over-Ear Wireless (M2 AEBT)	16 950€

The best in-ear headphones (earplugs) Sennheiser

The rating presented by our experts is based on the principle “from less to more”, so we’ll start with the smallest solutions from Sennheiser – in-channel in-ear headphones, in common parlance called “earplugs.

Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear Wireless

Rating: 4.9

And the first number we take a look at a very bright and quite expensive model of the premium Momentum series.

The headset is made in the common form factor with a collar-type holder. The signal is transmitted wirelessly by Bluetooth 4.1 using Qualcomm® apt-X™ codec. NFC for instant communication between two devices. There is a built-in microphone. Equipped with LED status indication.

The materials used in the headset are of the highest level and quality. The collar holder is upholstered in delicate, yet durable semi-aniline faux leather. Precision ducting made of stainless steel. The metal parts of the gadget shine with a flawless, reflective chrome finish. Also partially used shock-resistant polycarbonate.

Strictly technical specifications of this model are as follows: sound reproduction in the range of 15 to 22 thousand. Hz; sound pressure up to 112 dB; nonlinear distortion index of less than 0.5%; beam pattern – circular; protocol sensitivity 121

9-5 – –44 dBV/pa; supports A2DP + AVRCP + HSP + HFP profiles and AptX codec; .

The headset is controlled with a three-button control box that allows you to adjust sound settings and control calls from your wirelessly connected smartphone on the go. Supports simultaneous connection to two external devices. The status of pairing with other devices and battery power is notified by voice prompts. Vibration function also signals incoming calls to your smartphone.

The autonomy of the device within about 10 hours of continuous operation provides a battery capacity of 170 mAh. Full charge time 1.5 hours.

The package includes the headphones themselves; Four pairs of in-canal ear cushions of different sizes for a secure fit, noise reduction and comfort; convenient storage and transportation case.

Advantages

• powerful bass;
• quality materials;
• True-to-life soundscape;
• good autonomy.

Disadvantages

• Turns off when you lose connection with one device, even if there is another in sight.

Sennheiser CX 6.00BT

Rating: 4.8

The second position in the rating group of headphone-plugs Sennheiser is the super lightweight wireless model CX 6.00BT. It weighs only 14 grams, and the proprietary sound of Sennheiser is quite happy.

The type of connection of the headphones is similar to the previous model – Bluetooth 4.2, also contain a built-in microphone and LED indication. In terms of design here is already an important difference – the headphones have an earhook. The developers deserve special “thanks” from iPhone users for the maximum adaptation for this family of smartphones.

The software part of the device is also quite good and for the most part keeps up with the previous, twice more expensive model. Here we also see support for AVRCP profile and Qualcomm® apt-X™ codec. About the codec, it must be added that the headphones decode sound in Low Latency mode very quickly, which provides the best possible synchronization of audio and video when watching movies, videos on the Internet or video games. The sound reproduced in the range from 17 to 21 thousand. Hz, sound pressure up to 112 dB.

The functionality of this headset is comparable to the above – it can connect to two devices at the same time, it can make outgoing calls and answer incoming calls. All this allows for a compact three-button control unit. Voice prompts let you know about incoming calls, charging status and other important events.

In terms of battery life this model is noticeably weaker than the previous – six hours of continuous work on a full charge. For a full charge “from scratch” requires 1.5 hours. A quick charge within 10 minutes adds two hours of use.

The package includes the headphones themselves, charging cable microUSB, carrying case and four ear adapters in different sizes – XS, S, M, L.

Advantages

• excellent transmission of high frequencies;
• quick charger;
• Full-fledged bass when properly sized ear cushions
• instant connection to wearable devices.

Disadvantages

• Individual complaints about lack of autonomy.

Sennheiser IE 4

Rating: 4.7

Completes the first three best headphones Sennheiser most simple and fairly inexpensive model in the selection. This is a very basic accessory of the dynamic type, weighing only 5 grams, which does not have the same functionality as the two models described above, but in terms of sound quite holds the mark.

These headphones, in contrast to the previous two, are connected to the source only by wire – through a symmetrical cable with L-shaped mini jack jack 3.5 mm on the end. Connector is gold-plated. The lack of wireless is a little frustrating, but thankfully at least the cable is quite long – 1.4 m, and rugged – with Kevlar reinforcement.

The fine technical specifications of this model are as follows: the range of playback sound – from 10 to 18 thousand. Hz; sensitivity – 106 dB; harmonic coefficient – 0.3% impedance – 16 ohms; sound pressure – 106dB.

The headset design does not include a mount. The package includes three pairs of interchangeable ear cushions in different sizes.

Advantages

• sound quality;
• long service life, according to user reviews;
• Long durable cable with kevlar reinforcement;
• relatively affordable price.

Disadvantages

• “No” packaging – potential danger of damage in transit.

The best overhead headphones Sennheiser

The second group of devices in the rating of the best headphones Sennheiser according to Expertology – is a kind of compromise between the earmold and full-size – overhead headphones. Here we will also look at three models that our experts have found to be worthy of attention for the most important features.

Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Wireless (M2 OEBT)

Rating: 4.9

The first model in this selection is a kind of “big brother” of another Momentum model from the previous group. Certainly they have not so much in common, but some advantages are successfully realized.

The form factor of this model is clear, weighs 210 grams, headphones are attached by a headband and come in three basic colors – beige, brown, black. Foldable design, when folded the headphones fit into the hard, compact case supplied.

Developers have placed significant emphasis on the quality and properties of materials to emphasize the premium class of the headset. For example, the ear cushions and headband are covered with a pleasant touch of synthetic suede, and not just any, but the famous Italian Alcantara.

This model supports two ways to connect to devices – wireless Bluetooth and through a detachable cord with a standard connector. There is also support for NFC with a maximum possible range for this technology of 10 meters.

In terms of sound characteristics this model boasts a high-quality and pronounced V-shaped sound (accented bass and treble). This amplitude-frequency response best broadcasts the rhythm of modern dynamic music. Supports AptX codec. Active noise cancellation NoiseGuard is built in. “The feedback is provided by the four microphones.

The functionality of the headset also includes the ability to control calls on your smartphone and playback – a compact control panel with buttons located directly on the body of the headphones. This way you can receive, end or put on hold a call, repeat the last number. There is a voice dialing function. Four standard profiles are supported: Headset, Hands free, AVRCP and A2DP.

In standby mode the headphones only have a full charge for 360 hours. Full charging time – 3 hours.

Advantages

• Wireless and wired connection;
• functionality;
• quality materials;
• premium class;
• Quality V-sound.

Disadvantages

• a noticeable percentage of complaints about not the most convenient operation.

Sennheiser HD 25

Rating: 4.8

The 25th Sennheiser HD 25s, which have been held in high esteem by professional DJs for more than 30 years, are now a legend in our rating. To be precise, we are talking, of course, about their most recent version, but all in all during its history this model has gone through six successful technological revisions.

The most recent revision can be distinguished easily by the manufacturer’s logos on the cups and resistance indicators on the headband. Otherwise, the fresh version has undergone only minor modifications, while all the advantages remain the same. We will go over them in details.

So, the HD 25 line is a range of overhead dynamic closed-ear headphones. Weighs 140g and is attached by means of a headband. One side of the cable connects. Connected through a standard mini jack plug 3.The ear cushions are soft enough and ergonomic, and in addition to the ear cushions there is an adapter for 6 mm in the pack.3mm. The cable is long enough – 1.5 m.

The headset reproduces sound in the range of 16 to 22 thousand hertz. Characterized by 120 dB sensitivity and 70 ohms impedance. Power output reaches 200 mW. Harmonic coefficient – 0.3%. Contact pressure of 2.5n.

Highlights include an exceptional soundproofing that is on par with an in-ear design. This is achieved through a special cup shape and firm sealing. The latter does not affect the comfort during long hours of continuous wearing – the ear cushions are soft and ergonomic enough.

Another important point – the headphones are nearly indestructible. The developers initially built an impressive resource, so that the headsets of previous generations serve their owners for many years, and the fresh revision saved this quality.

Advantages

• very lightweight;
• Excellent soundproofing;
• Claim to be professional grade;
• Exceptional sound quality;
• Universal comfortable fit “on any head;
• unprecedented durability.

Disadvantages

• No distinct disadvantages noted.

Sennheiser HD 2.20S

Rating: 4.7

The HD 2 model completes the rating of headphones produced by the famous brand Sennheiser compact, concise, comfortable and quite inexpensive.20S. The headset is made in a minimalistic design with a predominance of black in non-metallic design elements.

The headphones weigh 257 g – despite the compactness, they are heavier than the previous two, but within reason. Fixed by a headband, have a folding design and take up minimal space when folded. The cable connects on one side, the length is 1.4 meters. Connector is a standard “mini jack” 3.5 mm.

The parameters of the “sound power” of this model are as follows. Sound reproduction in the range from 18 to 18 thousand hertz, impedance – 26 ohms, the index of nonlinear distortion (“harmonics”) – 0.5%; sensitivity – 112dB/V.

The functionality of the headset also includes an omnidirectional microphone with a sensitivity of 44 dBV

The technology is capable of decoding frequencies from 100 Hz to 10,000 Hz, which means that it is able to withstand the highest possible bass frequencies. Hertz. The control function is quite minimalistic: sound volume, track switching, answer/end calls on your smartphone. There is a pause button which can pause the video clip on the wearable gadget.

Sennheiser provides an official guarantee on this model for 24 months.

Advantages

• Slim, compact, foldable;
• sound quality;
• Enduring and durable;
• The most affordable price in the group.

Disadvantages

• At medium volume the sound abundantly penetrates outside (in audio chats you can hear yourself).

The best full-size headphones Sennheiser

And finally, the third and most interesting selection in the rating of the best Sennheiser headphones according to Expertology. It is a full size model, which clearly is not suitable for wearing on the street, but it has such technical and other characteristics, which are not able to provide the overhead models, and which certainly “did not dream” of inserted models. These massive and often multifunctional devices are used for serious work with sound in the professional studio, home mini-studio. They are also often used by video game gamers, especially professional cyber athletes.

Sennheiser HD 800

Rating: 4.9

Let’s start, as expected, with the most expensive and most impressive model – HD 800. And there really is something to be impressed with. This is the flagship of Sennheiser’s professional headphones, capable of competing even with full Hi-End shelf speakers.

The headphones are in a massive housing with an expressive modern design. Net weight without cable is 330 g. Fastened by a headband. The most modern composite materials are used in construction, the cushions are covered with soft velvet microfiber. Contact pressure – 3.4n.

The key technical characteristics of the headphones in terms of sound are as follows. Sound frequency range from 6 to 51 thousand. Hz, impedance – 300 ohms, sensitivity – 102dB. Harmonic coefficient (nonlinear distortion) is less than or equal to 0.02%; sound pressure – 105 dB (1 kHz, 1 W RMS). Detachable cable with oxygen-free copper core is 3 meters long and connects to the headphones on two sides. Jack at the end – “jack” 6.3 mm, the kit includes an adapter for the connector 3.5mm.

In the description of this model it is worth stepping back from the dry numbers and emphasize some points that position the HD800 in the market as a whole. This is without the slightest exaggeration one of the best headphones in this class, and this model has received such recognition since its creation in 2009. A huge amount of money and tens of thousands of hours of research has gone into creating these models. Several local inventions and innovations were made and patented during its development.

Finally, let us underline one more circumstance, which speaks eloquently about the quality of these headphones. The manufacturer is so reverent and demanding to this line that does not trust any of the stages of assembly to outside companies. Each unit is made directly in Germany, in the city of Wedemark, the headquarters of Sennheiser. Each unit is put through a series of tests before it reaches the customer. Not only that, all test results are archived and available on the official Sennheiser website, so that every customer can trace the results by serial number.

Advantages

• The highest premium class with special manufacturing privileges;
• Exceptional quality control with the publication of the results on each piece;
• assembly (including manual assembly) directly at Sennheiser headquarters;
• Unprecedented accuracy and richness of sound reproduction;
• Expressive futuristic design.

Disadvantages

• No noticeable disadvantages.

Sennheiser HD 650

Rating: 4.8

Now after impressions of Sennheiser’s dazzling flagship you can “exhale” a little, but the next model in our ranking will undoubtedly make you impressed with renewed vigor. HD 650 series, of course, is far behind the brilliant HD 800, but this is not a disadvantage, as the model is aimed at a different audience with other goals, and with other financial capabilities.

The headphones are made in a rather concise, but pleasantly modern design with a predominantly silver theme in the color scheme. Net Weight 260g. They are attached by a headband. Detachable 3m cable connects on two sides, same as HD 800. Cushions are covered with silk. Voice coil made from aluminum wire. Materials such as neodymium magnets, Kevlar, oxygen-free copper are used in construction. Plug at the end of the wire – for jack 6.3 mm, adapter for standard 3 is included.5 mm. Gold plated connectors. Contact pressure of 2.5n.

In terms of sound this model shows quite an outstanding performance. Sound reproduction in the range from 10 to 41 thousand. Hz. Sensitivity – 103 dB, impedance – 300 Ohm. Output power up to 500 mW. Non-linear distortion – less or equal to 0.05 %.

One of the most frequent positive attributes of these headphones from real users is the strikingly smooth frequency response and realistic, “unpainted” sound. The driver pairs are hand-matched during assembly, with very tight tolerances of no more than 1dB variation in either direction. Exactly the same care is taken in selecting the magnet system – with increased requirements for intermodulation and harmonic distortion. Uses a Kevlar-reinforced cable with reduced sensitivity to contact noise.

Advantages

• unpainted sound;
• value for money;
• Extremely smooth frequency response;
• expensive materials in the assembly.

Disadvantages

• Point-to-point claims of a highly specialized nature.

Sennheiser Momentum Over-Ear Wireless (M2 AEBT)

Rating: 4.7

And completing the selection rating full-size headphones Sennheiser most affordable, but more than worthy of attention model. Looking ahead we should say that this is the only model in the group with wireless connectivity.

The headphones are made in a classic design with a comfortable headband. Net weight 258 g. Foldable design with detachable cable. The tactile feel of the ‘thing in your hand’ is enhanced by the hand-tooled leather used in the design.

The semi-professional class of the device, closer to amateur “audiophile”, allowed the manufacturer to implement some features, which the above two models “are not due to their status. We are talking about Bluetooth 4 wireless communication.0, Active Noise Cancellation, NFC support and more.

These headphones can already be fully used in conjunction with a portable gadget, you can control tracks and calls (accept, reject, hold, voice dialing, repeat the last), recording surround sound with four built-in omnidirectional microphones. The headphones support four basic functional profiles – A2DP, AVRCP, Hands free, Headset and AptX codec.

The headphones can store the technical profiles of eight external devices in the built-in memory and work in multi-connect mode with two devices simultaneously – for example, with a smartphone and a PC/laptop.

In standby mode the headset works up to 360 hours, a full charge takes no more than 3 hours.

Advantages

• wireless connection;
• smooth, high-quality, “brand name” sound of Sennheiser;
• active noise cancellation;
• Relatively affordable price (in the context of this class of devices);

Disadvantages

• Noise cancelling is not switched off during wireless connection.