Hd 599 Se vs Hd 599: Which Sennheiser Headphones Reign?
Are you torn between two titans of the open-back headphone world? The Sennheiser HD 599 and its special edition sibling, the HD 599 SE, have captured the hearts (and ears) of audiophiles worldwide. Both promise a premium listening experience, but which one truly delivers the best value and performance?
This in-depth comparison dives into the nuances of the Sennheiser HD 599 SE vs HD 599, dissecting their design, sound quality, comfort, and overall value. We’ll explore the subtle differences that set them apart, helping you make an informed decision for your next headphone purchase.
Get ready to uncover the sonic secrets of each model. We’ll examine the HD 599’s classic design alongside the HD 599 SE’s unique aesthetic. We’ll delve into the sound signatures, and see which headphone truly deserves a spot on your head!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | hd 599 se | hd 599 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Open-Back, Over-Ear | Open-Back, Over-Ear |
| Impedance | 50 ohms | 50 ohms |
| Frequency Response | 12 – 38,000 Hz | 12 – 38,000 Hz |
| Sensitivity | 106 dB | 106 dB |
| Cable Length | 3m & 1.2m (Detachable) | 3m & 1.2m (Detachable) |
| Connector | 6.3 mm & 3.5 mm | 6.3 mm & 3.5 mm |
| Weight | 250g | 250g |
| Ear Coupling | Circumaural | Circumaural |
| Earcup Material | Velour | Velour |
| Headband Material | Velour | Velour |
| Color | Black | Ivory |
| Warranty | 2 Years | 2 Years |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Color Scheme
- Hd 599 Se: Features a sleek, all-black design with a matte finish, offering a more modern and understated aesthetic. This color scheme can be considered more versatile and less prone to showing wear and tear.
- Hd 599: Boasts an ivory/cream color with brown accents, presenting a more classic and elegant appearance. Some users might find this colorway more visually appealing, while others may find it less versatile.
- Winner: Tie
Earcup Design
- Hd 599 Se: Maintains the same open-back circumaural design as the standard HD 599, with large, comfortable earcups that fully enclose the ears. This design promotes excellent soundstage and breathability.
- Hd 599: Also features an open-back, circumaural design, with the same comfortable earcups. This design contributes to the headphone’s airy sound and comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
- Winner: Tie
Headband Design
- Hd 599 Se: Utilizes the same comfortable headband construction as the original HD 599, likely with similar padding and adjustability for a secure and comfortable fit.
- Hd 599: Employs a similar headband design, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit for a wide range of head sizes. The design contributes to the overall comfort of the headphones.
- Winner: Tie
Sound Signature
- Hd 599 Se: Shares the same warm and balanced sound signature as the HD 599, known for its natural and detailed audio reproduction, with a slightly enhanced bass response.
- Hd 599: Delivers a warm and balanced sound, with a slightly boosted bass, providing a pleasant listening experience across various music genres. It excels in clarity and detail.
- Winner: Tie
Impedance
- Hd 599 Se: Likely maintains the same 50-ohm impedance as the original HD 599, making them relatively easy to drive with most audio sources, including smartphones and portable devices.
- Hd 599: Operates at 50 ohms, allowing for easy compatibility with a wide range of devices. This impedance makes them a versatile choice for both home and on-the-go listening.
- Winner: Tie
Included Accessories
- Hd 599 Se: Comes with a detachable 3-meter cable with a 6.3mm (1/4 inch) jack and a shorter 1.2-meter cable with a 3.5mm jack, along with a 6.3mm to 3.5mm adapter.
- Hd 599: Includes similar accessories, with a 3-meter and a 1.2-meter cable, plus an adapter, providing flexibility for different audio setups.
- Winner: Tie
Build Quality
- Hd 599 Se: Offers the same reliable build quality as the original HD 599, utilizing high-quality materials for durability and longevity.
- Hd 599: Constructed with durable materials, ensuring the headphones can withstand regular use. The build quality is a key factor in their lasting value.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Hd 599 Se: Often available at a slightly lower price point than the standard HD 599, making it a potentially more budget-friendly option.
- Hd 599: Typically priced slightly higher than the SE version, although prices can fluctuate based on sales and retailers.
- Winner: hd 599 se
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Sound Quality (Overall) | Tie |
| Comfort | Tie |
| Build Quality | Tie |
| Value | Tie |
| Aesthetics | hd 599 se (Subjective) |
What They Have in Common:
- Open-Back Design: Both headphones feature an open-back design, providing a spacious and natural soundstage, ideal for critical listening and enjoying music at home.
- Comfort: Both the hd 599 se and hd 599 are known for their exceptional comfort, featuring plush velour earcups and a lightweight design, allowing for extended listening sessions.
- Impedance: Both headphones share a 50-ohm impedance, making them compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, and dedicated headphone amplifiers.
- Detachable Cables: Both models come with detachable cables, offering flexibility and convenience for different listening scenarios and easy cable replacement if needed.
- Frequency Response: Both headphones share the same wide frequency response, ensuring that you can enjoy the full range of your music.
- Build Quality: Both headphones are constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and longevity.
Hd 599 Se Vs Hd 599 Buying Guide
Sound Quality and Performance
Both the HD 599 SE and the HD 599 offer excellent sound quality, but subtle differences exist. The HD 599 SE often presents a slightly more refined and balanced sound signature, with a touch more emphasis on the low-end frequencies. The HD 599 maintains the classic Sennheiser sound. However, both headphones deliver a wide soundstage, detailed audio reproduction, and are suitable for various music genres.
Design and Comfort
Comfort is a key strength of both models. The HD 599 SE and HD 599 share a similar lightweight design, featuring plush velour earcups and a padded headband. The open-back design contributes to excellent breathability, making them suitable for long listening sessions. The main difference lies in the color schemes and included accessories.
Build Quality and Durability
The build quality of both headphones is generally good, although they are primarily made of plastic. While durable for everyday use, they might not withstand extreme abuse. Proper care and handling are recommended. The replaceable earcups and cable extend the lifespan of both models, making them a worthwhile investment.
Features and Accessories
The HD 599 SE and HD 599 come with detachable cables, providing flexibility and convenience. The HD 599 SE often includes a longer cable and a shorter cable, while the HD 599 usually includes just one cable. Both headphones feature a 3.5mm jack for connectivity. Some packages may include a 6.35mm adapter, allowing for broader device compatibility.
Price and Value
The price of these headphones can fluctuate. The HD 599 SE and the HD 599 often compete in a similar price range, making the value proposition quite attractive. Considering the sound quality, comfort, and build, both headphones offer exceptional value for their price point, especially when on sale. Assessing current prices is always recommended.
Suitability for Different Users
Both headphones are suitable for audiophiles and casual listeners alike. The open-back design is ideal for home listening, as it allows for a more natural sound experience. The HD 599 SE and HD 599 are excellent choices for enjoying music, movies, and gaming. The choice depends on the user’s preference for color scheme and any included accessories.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy hd 599 se If…
- You prefer a sleek, all-black aesthetic.
- You want a headphone that offers a slightly enhanced bass response.
- You prioritize a modern and stylish appearance.
- You value a good deal.
Buy hd 599 If…
- You prefer a classic ivory color scheme.
- You like the more neutral sound signature.
- You are looking for a headphone with a more traditional design.
- You want to enjoy a headphone with a proven track record.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference in sound signature?
The HD 599 SE tends to have a slightly more balanced sound signature with a touch more emphasis on the bass frequencies, though this is subtle. The HD 599 maintains the classic Sennheiser sound profile. Both offer a wide soundstage and detailed audio reproduction, making them suitable for various music genres.
Are they good for gaming?
Yes, both the HD 599 SE and HD 599 are suitable for gaming. Their open-back design provides a wide soundstage, which enhances the gaming experience by providing accurate positional audio. They offer good detail and clarity, allowing gamers to hear subtle sound cues.
What is the difference in included accessories?
The HD 599 SE often includes two cables (one long, one short), and a 6.35mm adapter, while the HD 599 typically includes one cable. The specific accessories can vary based on the retailer. Always check the product description for the exact contents included in the package.
Are they easy to drive?
Yes, both headphones are relatively easy to drive, meaning they don’t require a powerful amplifier to reach adequate listening levels. However, using a dedicated headphone amplifier can improve the sound quality and provide better dynamics, especially at higher volumes.
What is the warranty like?
Both the HD 599 SE and HD 599 typically come with a standard manufacturer’s warranty, which usually covers defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one or two years. The exact terms and conditions can vary depending on the region and the retailer.
How comfortable are they?
Both headphones are known for their exceptional comfort. They feature plush velour earcups and a padded headband, making them comfortable for extended listening sessions. The open-back design also contributes to breathability, reducing heat buildup around the ears.
Which one is better for bass?
While both offer good bass response, the HD 599 SE is often perceived as having a slightly enhanced bass compared to the HD 599. The difference is subtle and depends on individual listening preferences. If you’re a bass-head, the HD 599 SE might be slightly preferable.
Final Verdict
Both the HD 599 SE and HD 599 are excellent open-back headphones, offering exceptional sound quality, comfort, and value. The HD 599 SE often presents a slightly more refined sound signature with a touch more bass emphasis, while the HD 599 maintains the classic Sennheiser sound. The choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and any included accessories. Both are highly recommended.
Winner: [HD 599 SE]