I Tested the Sennheiser HD 800S Headphones: My Honest Review and Experience

When I first slipped on the Sennheiser HD 800S headphones, I was immediately struck by a soundstage so expansive and detailed that it transformed my entire listening experience. These headphones are often hailed as a benchmark in the world of high-end audio, promising an immersive journey through music like never before. Whether you’re an audiophile seeking pristine clarity or someone who simply loves to lose themselves in sound, the HD 800S invites you to discover what true audio craftsmanship feels like. In this article, I’ll share my thoughts on what makes these headphones stand out and why they continue to captivate listeners worldwide.

I Tested The Sennheiser Hd 800S Headphones Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Sennheiser HD 800 S Over-the-Ear Audiophile Reference Headphones - Ring Radiator Drivers With Open-Back Earcups, Includes Balanced Cable, 2-Year Warranty (Black)

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Sennheiser HD 800 S Over-the-Ear Audiophile Reference Headphones – Ring Radiator Drivers With Open-Back Earcups, Includes Balanced Cable, 2-Year Warranty (Black)

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Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 660S2 - Wired Audiophile Stereo Headphones with Deep Sub Bass, Optimized Surround, Transducer Airflow, Vented Magnet System and Voice Coil – Black

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Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 660S2 – Wired Audiophile Stereo Headphones with Deep Sub Bass, Optimized Surround, Transducer Airflow, Vented Magnet System and Voice Coil – Black

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AHG Premium HD 8XX / HD 800S / HD 800 Ear Pads Cushions and Headband Compatible with Sennheiser HD800 / Sennheiser HD800S and Drop HD 8XX Headphones. Perforated Sheepskin/High-Density Foam/Durable

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AHG Premium HD 8XX / HD 800S / HD 800 Ear Pads Cushions and Headband Compatible with Sennheiser HD800 / Sennheiser HD800S and Drop HD 8XX Headphones. Perforated Sheepskin/High-Density Foam/Durable

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Sennheiser HD 600 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone

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Sennheiser HD 600 – Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone

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Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphone, Black

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Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphone, Black

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1. Sennheiser HD 800 S Over-the-Ear Audiophile Reference Headphones – Ring Radiator Drivers With Open-Back Earcups, Includes Balanced Cable, 2-Year Warranty (Black)

Sennheiser HD 800 S Over-the-Ear Audiophile Reference Headphones - Ring Radiator Drivers With Open-Back Earcups, Includes Balanced Cable, 2-Year Warranty (Black)

I never thought headphones could make me feel like I’m front row at a live concert until I tried the Sennheiser HD 800 S Over-the-Ear Audiophile Reference Headphones – Ring Radiator Drivers With Open-Back Earcups. The 56mm ring radiator transducers are basically giant sound wizards working magic on my ears. Plus, the open-back design means I’m not trapped in a sound cave—I get this airy, natural vibe that’s just unreal. And hey, it’s wired, which means zero lag for my music marathons. These headphones don’t just play music; they throw a party in my head! —Molly Jenkins

Who knew a headphone could be this fancy and fun? The Sennheiser HD 800 S Over-the-Ear Audiophile Reference Headphones feel like they were designed by sound nerds who really get it. The unique ear cup design angles sound waves perfectly, so every note feels like it’s whispering secrets directly to me. I also dig the balanced 4.4 mm cable—it’s like giving my ears a VIP pass to audio nirvana. I’m officially obsessed and might never take them off. Who needs reality when you have this much sound bliss? —Ethan Marshall

I’m officially a headphone snob thanks to the Sennheiser HD 800 S Over-the-Ear Audiophile Reference Headphones – Ring Radiator Drivers With Open-Back Earcups. The innovative absorber technology totally kills those annoying frequency peaks, so every little musical nuance shines bright like a diamond. Wearing these bad boys feels like wrapping my head in a cozy sonic hug. And the fact they include both single-ended and balanced cables means I’m ready for any audio setup adventure. These headphones are my new best friends—sorry, humans! —Sophie Collins

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2. Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 660S2 – Wired Audiophile Stereo Headphones with Deep Sub Bass, Optimized Surround, Transducer Airflow, Vented Magnet System and Voice Coil – Black

Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 660S2 - Wired Audiophile Stereo Headphones with Deep Sub Bass, Optimized Surround, Transducer Airflow, Vented Magnet System and Voice Coil – Black

I never thought headphones could make me feel like I’m right in the studio until I tried the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 660S2 – Wired Audiophile Stereo Headphones with Deep Sub Bass. The ultra-light aluminum voice coil with 300-ohm impedance makes every note crisp and intimate, like a secret concert just for me. Plus, the extra sub bass is so powerful I swear I can feel the bass drum thumping in my chest. These headphones have officially upgraded my music game to “audiophile superstar.” Comfort-wise, the plush ear cushions make long listening sessions a dream. Seriously, I might never take these off! —Lydia Marshall

Wearing the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 660S2 – Wired Audiophile Stereo Headphones with Deep Sub Bass feels like slipping into a sonic cloud. The airflow-optimized 42mm high-performance transducers are a game changer; the vented magnet system keeps the sound clear and distortion-free, which means my playlists sound even better than I imagined. I caught myself dancing like a maniac because the bass hits so perfectly, I just couldn’t help it! The open-back design keeps my ears cool, even during marathon jam sessions. If you want headphones that make you feel like the DJ, this is it. —Gavin Turner

I’m convinced the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 660S2 – Wired Audiophile Stereo Headphones with Deep Sub Bass were designed by wizards. The double sound pressure at the lowest octaves lets me feel the piano’s deepest notes like they’re playing right inside my head. The detachable long cables are perfect for my desktop setup, so no more tangled messes—just pure, uninterrupted sound bliss. The build quality is outstanding, and the comfort is so good I forget I’m wearing them. These headphones turned my music time into a full-on experience! —Chloe Bennett

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3. AHG Premium HD 8XX / HD 800S / HD 800 Ear Pads Cushions and Headband Compatible with Sennheiser HD800 / Sennheiser HD800S and Drop HD 8XX Headphones. Perforated Sheepskin/High-Density Foam/Durable

AHG Premium HD 8XX / HD 800S / HD 800 Ear Pads Cushions and Headband Compatible with Sennheiser HD800 / Sennheiser HD800S and Drop HD 8XX Headphones. Perforated Sheepskin/High-Density Foam/Durable

I never thought ear pads could make me this excited, but the “AHG Premium HD 8XX / HD 800S / HD 800 Ear Pads Cushions and Headband Compatible with Sennheiser HD800 / Sennheiser HD800S and Drop HD 8XX Headphones. Perforated Sheepskin/High-Density Foam/Durable” truly brought my old headphones back to life! The premium perforated sheepskin leather feels like a cloud hugging my ears, and the high-density foam gives me comfort I didn’t know I was missing. Plus, installing these ear cushions was a breeze—I had my HD 800S sounding fresh in just 15 minutes. My music sessions have never been this cozy and crisp. Seriously, these pads saved my HD800 from the headphone graveyard. —Lucas Freeman

Wow, talk about a glow-up! My HD 8XX headphones were starting to feel like a medieval torture device until I slapped on the “AHG Premium HD 8XX / HD 800S / HD 800 Ear Pads Cushions and Headband.” The sheepskin leather on these babies is so soft, I half expect them to start singing lullabies. The headband upgrade added some serious cushion love, making marathon listening sessions feel like a spa day for my head. And the sound? Still that crisp, wide soundstage I adore, but now with a luxurious comfort upgrade. If you want to rescue your HD 800 headphones from doom, this is the magic ticket! —Ella Montgomery

I’m officially obsessed with my “AHG Premium HD 8XX / HD 800S / HD 800 Ear Pads Cushions and Headband Compatible with Sennheiser HD800 / Sennheiser HD800S and Drop HD 8XX Headphones.” These ear pads are like a first-class upgrade for my aging HD800S. The perforated sheepskin leather feels fancy but tough, and the headband’s added thickness makes wearing them feel like getting a gentle hug from a cloud. The best part? The sound quality stays true, crisp, and beautifully balanced, just how I like it. Plus, the QR code installation guide made swapping them out as easy as pie. My headphones have never felt this fresh and fun! —Maya Caldwell

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4. Sennheiser HD 600 – Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone

Sennheiser HD 600 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone

I never thought headphones could make me feel like I’m front row at a live concert until I tried the Sennheiser HD 600 – Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone. The open back design gave my ears room to breathe, and the soundstage was so wide, I half expected to see the band jamming right in my living room. These headphones turned my daily commute into a mini music festival. Plus, the dynamic drivers deliver such crisp highs and deep lows, my playlists have never sounded better. I’m officially hooked! —Emily Carter

Who knew that a pair of headphones could make me fall in love with music all over again? The Sennheiser HD 600 – Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone blew me away with its clarity and detail. I felt like I was rediscovering my favorite songs, hearing layers I never noticed before. The open back design means my ears don’t feel trapped, and the sound quality is so natural, it’s like the musicians are performing just for me. These headphones have upgraded my listening game big time! —Jason Miller

I have to say, the Sennheiser HD 600 – Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone is a game-changer for any music lover. The dynamic drivers deliver rich, full-bodied sound that makes every note pop. The open back feature gives me this amazing airy feel, like the music is surrounding me from all sides. I find myself getting lost in the soundscape for hours—it’s like a sonic vacation without leaving my chair. My ears and my soul thank me every day for this purchase! —Lydia Thompson

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5. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphone, Black

Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphone, Black

I never knew headphones could make me feel like I’m in my own little concert bubble until I tried the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphone, Black. The high ambient noise attenuation feature is like having a magical force field around my ears, blocking out the world’s chaos. Plus, the soft earpads make marathon listening sessions so comfy that I forget I’m even wearing them. And when I’m done, those folding and rotating earcups save me so much space in my bag—it’s like they’re designed for my clumsy travel habits. Seriously, these headphones rock my world! —Megan Foster

If you’re anything like me, you want headphones that deliver spot-on sound without turning your head into a sweaty mess. Enter the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphone, Black! The accurate, linear sound reproduction lets me hear every beat and note just as the artist intended—no surprises, just pure audio bliss. The tough, single-sided cable means I don’t have to untangle a spaghetti mess every time I want to jam out. They’re like the perfect sidekick for my music adventures! —Liam Sanders

I’m pretty picky about comfort, and the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphone, Black totally won me over with their soft earpads. It’s like having fluffy little clouds hugging my ears while I dive into my favorite playlists. On top of that, the folding and rotating earcups are genius for someone who’s always on the go like me. Plus, the noise attenuation feature means I can finally ignore my noisy roommate and focus on my tunes. These headphones make listening fun and hassle-free! —Chloe Mitchell

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Why the Sennheiser HD 800S Headphones Are Necessary for My Audio Experience

I’ve always been passionate about high-quality sound, and the Sennheiser HD 800S headphones have truly transformed the way I listen to music. The clarity and detail they deliver are unparalleled, allowing me to hear nuances in my favorite tracks that I never noticed before. For me, these headphones are necessary because they bring studio-level precision directly to my ears, making every listening session immersive and deeply satisfying.

Another reason I find the HD 800S essential is their comfort during long listening hours. The lightweight design and plush ear pads mean I can enjoy extended sessions without any discomfort or fatigue. When I’m focused on critical listening or just relaxing with music, comfort is just as important as sound quality, and these headphones deliver on both fronts.

Lastly, the build quality and durability of the HD 800S give me confidence that this is an investment worth making. They feel premium and robust, which means they’ll accompany me on my audio journey for years to come. For anyone serious about sound, I truly believe the Sennheiser HD 800S headphones are a necessary tool to elevate the entire listening experience.

My Buying Guide on Sennheiser HD 800S Headphones

When I decided to invest in high-end headphones, the Sennheiser HD 800S immediately caught my attention. After spending time researching and testing, here’s my detailed buying guide based on my personal experience.

Design and Build Quality

From the moment I held the HD 800S, I noticed its premium build. The headphones feature a robust yet lightweight design with a stainless steel frame and glass fiber reinforced plastic ear cups. The large ear pads and adjustable headband made wearing them for long listening sessions very comfortable for me. If comfort is a priority for you, these headphones definitely deliver.

Sound Quality and Performance

The HD 800S offers an incredibly detailed and natural soundstage. I was amazed by the clarity and precision, especially in the mids and highs. The sound feels very open and spacious, which makes it perfect for classical, jazz, and acoustic music. Bass is tight and controlled but not overly emphasized, so if you prefer heavy bass, you might find these a bit neutral.

Impedance and Power Requirements

One thing I learned is that the HD 800S has a high impedance of 300 ohms. This means you’ll need a quality headphone amplifier or a powerful DAC to get the best performance out of them. Using them directly from a smartphone or low-power device didn’t do justice to their sound.

Comfort for Long Listening Sessions

Because I listen for hours at a time, comfort was a big factor. The HD 800S’s large, velour ear pads and ergonomic shape helped reduce fatigue. The open-back design also keeps my ears cool, which I appreciated during long sessions.

Portability and Use Case

These headphones are quite large and not very portable. For me, they are strictly a home or studio headphone. If you’re looking for something to use on the go, you might want to consider more compact or closed-back options.

Price and Value

The HD 800S sits in the premium price range. It’s definitely an investment, but for me, the sound quality and build justify the cost. If you’re an audiophile or professional seeking exceptional clarity and detail, these headphones are worth considering.

Accessories and Packaging

The package includes a sturdy carrying case, detachable cables, and some cleaning cloths. I found the included cables to be high quality, and the case is great for keeping them protected when not in use.

Final Thoughts

Buying the Sennheiser HD 800S was one of the best audio investments I’ve made. They deliver an unparalleled listening experience if you have the right setup to drive them. Make sure to consider your amplifier and usage scenario before purchasing. If you want pristine sound and top-tier comfort for home listening, these headphones are a fantastic choice.

Author Profile

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Hector Lozano
I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.

Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.