Hd 800 vs Hd 800 S: Which Sennheiser Headphone Reigns?
Are you ready to dive into the world of audiophile headphones? Prepare yourself for a showdown between two titans: the Sennheiser HD 800 and its successor, the HD 800 S. These headphones are renowned for their exceptional sound quality, but which one truly deserves a spot on your head?
This comparison will explore the nuances that separate these two high-fidelity headphones. We’ll delve into their design, sound signatures, and overall performance, helping you determine which is the best fit for your listening preferences and budget. Get ready to discover the subtle, yet significant, differences.
The HD 800 series has earned its place as a benchmark in open-back headphone design. We will dissect the evolution from the original HD 800 to the HD 800 S, highlighting the improvements and adjustments Sennheiser made. By the end, you’ll be armed with the knowledge to make an informed decision.
Specs at a Glance
| Feature | HD 800 | HD 800S |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Type | Dynamic | Dynamic |
| Open/Closed Back | Open | Open |
| Frequency Response | 4 – 51,000 Hz | 4 – 51,000 Hz |
| Impedance | 300 Ohms | 300 Ohms |
| Sensitivity | 102 dB | 102 dB |
| THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) | < 0.02% | < 0.02% |
| Ear Coupling | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Weight | 330 g | 340 g |
| Cable Connector | Dual-sided, proprietary | Dual-sided, proprietary |
| Included Cables | 1/4″ (6.3mm) | 1/4″ (6.3mm) & 4.4mm Pentaconn |
| Materials | Metal, microfiber | Metal, microfiber |
| Ear Pad Material | Microfiber | Microfiber |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Driver Technology
- Hd 800: Utilizes Sennheiser’s 56mm Ring Radiator transducers, known for their exceptional detail retrieval and wide soundstage. They offer a highly transparent and accurate sound signature, but can be slightly more demanding on amplification.
- Hd 800s: Also features the 56mm Ring Radiator transducers, but with the addition of the patented absorber technology, originally developed for the HD 800. This modification aims to improve the overall sound quality by reducing the resonance.
- Winner: HD 800s
Frequency Response
- Hd 800: Boasts a wide frequency response, typically 6 – 51,000 Hz. This allows for detailed reproduction of a broad range of audio frequencies, but can sometimes result in a brighter sound signature.
- Hd 800s: Shares a similar wide frequency response, 4 – 51,000 Hz. The updated design, however, aims for a more balanced presentation across the frequency spectrum, resulting in a more enjoyable listening experience for many.
- Winner: HD 800s
Sound Signature
- Hd 800: Known for its analytical and revealing sound signature, with a focus on detail and clarity. This can be great for critical listening, but may sound a bit bright or harsh to some listeners.
- Hd 800s: Offers a more refined and balanced sound signature compared to the HD 800. The improved bass response and smoother treble make it more versatile and less fatiguing for extended listening sessions.
- Winner: HD 800s
Comfort & Build Quality
- Hd 800: Features a high-quality build with premium materials, including metal and durable plastics. The large circumaural earcups and plush microfiber earpads provide excellent comfort, although the clamping force can be a bit tight initially.
- Hd 800s: Maintains the same excellent build quality and comfort as the HD 800, with the same materials and design. The clamping force is the same.
- Winner: Tie
Impedance & Sensitivity
- Hd 800: Has an impedance of 300 ohms and a sensitivity of 102 dB. This makes them relatively difficult to drive and requires a powerful amplifier to reach their full potential.
- Hd 800s: Maintains the same impedance of 300 ohms and a sensitivity of 102 dB. This means they will also need a dedicated headphone amplifier for optimal performance.
- Winner: Tie
Included Accessories
- Hd 800: Typically comes with a standard 6.3mm (1/4 inch) unbalanced cable. Does not include a balanced cable.
- Hd 800s: Includes both a 6.3mm (1/4 inch) unbalanced cable and a 4.4mm balanced cable, offering greater flexibility and compatibility with different amplifiers.
- Winner: HD 800s
Soundstage
- Hd 800: Renowned for its exceptionally wide and spacious soundstage, creating a truly immersive listening experience. This is a key strength for the HD 800, making it ideal for instrumental and orchestral music.
- Hd 800s: Maintains a similarly impressive soundstage, but the refined sound signature results in a more natural and cohesive presentation.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Hd 800: Typically available at a slightly lower price point on the used market, due to it being an older model.
- Hd 800s: Usually has a higher price tag due to its newer features and updated technology.
- Winner: Tie (Depends on budget and used availability)
Winner by Category
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Sound Signature (Out-of-Box) | HD 800S |
| Soundstage | HD 800 |
| Overall Balance | HD 800S |
| Versatility | HD 800S |
| Included Accessories | HD 800S |
What They Have in Common
- Driver Technology: Both headphones utilize Sennheiser’s innovative 56mm dynamic transducer technology for exceptional audio reproduction.
- Open-Back Design: Both models share an open-back design, providing a spacious and airy soundstage that enhances the listening experience.
- High Impedance: Both require a dedicated headphone amplifier to perform optimally due to their 300-ohm impedance.
- Exceptional Comfort: Both feature comfortable earcups and a padded headband, designed for extended listening sessions.
- Premium Build Quality: Both are constructed with high-quality materials, ensuring durability and a luxurious feel.
- Frequency Response: Both headphones offer an impressive frequency response range of 4-51,000 Hz.
HD 800 vs HD 800S Buying Guide
Sound Signature
The HD 800 and HD 800S share a similar sonic DNA, both delivering a highly detailed and revealing sound. However, the HD 800 often presents a slightly brighter sound signature, with a more pronounced treble response. This can lead to a more airy presentation but may also sound fatiguing to some listeners over extended listening sessions. The HD 800S, on the other hand, features a warmer, more balanced sound, with a slightly rolled-off treble that results in a smoother and more forgiving listening experience. This makes the HD 800S better suited for longer listening sessions and a wider variety of music genres.
Comfort and Build Quality
Both headphones are built with premium materials and offer exceptional comfort. The HD 800 utilizes a metal headband and high-quality plastic earcups. The HD 800S improves on this with a similar design, offering a slightly more refined and comfortable fit. Both headphones feature large, circumaural earcups and breathable microfiber earpads, allowing for hours of comfortable listening. The build quality is excellent on both, ensuring long-lasting durability, although the HD 800S has a slightly more premium feel due to its updated materials.
Amplification Requirements
Both the HD 800 and HD 800S are demanding headphones that require a powerful amplifier to reach their full potential. They both have a relatively high impedance and low sensitivity, meaning they won’t sound their best when paired with a smartphone or basic audio player. A dedicated headphone amplifier is essential to provide enough power and control for these headphones. The HD 800 may benefit from a more neutral amplifier, while the HD 800S might pair well with an amplifier that has a slightly warmer sound signature to complement its sonic characteristics.
Soundstage and Imaging
One of the standout features of both headphones is their exceptional soundstage and imaging capabilities. They both create a wide and accurate soundstage, allowing for precise placement of instruments and vocals within the listening space. The HD 800 is often praised for its expansive soundstage, providing an incredibly immersive listening experience. The HD 800S, while still excellent in this regard, might have a slightly more intimate soundstage compared to the HD 800, but still offers a remarkable sense of space and detail, making both headphones ideal for audiophiles.
Value for Money
Considering their premium build quality, exceptional sound performance, and long lifespan, both the HD 800 and HD 800S offer good value for money, despite their high price tags. The HD 800S is often considered the better value due to its improved sound signature and overall refinement, especially if found at a similar price to the HD 800. While the HD 800 is still a fantastic headphone, the HD 800S generally provides a more balanced and enjoyable listening experience out of the box, making it a potentially better investment for many listeners.
Connectivity and Features
Both headphones come with a detachable cable that connects to the earcups using a proprietary connector. The HD 800 typically includes a balanced cable with a 4.4mm Pentaconn connector, while the HD 800S includes a balanced cable with a 4.4mm Pentaconn connector and an unbalanced cable with a 6.35mm connector. Both headphones are designed for audiophile use and do not include any additional features such as noise cancellation or Bluetooth connectivity. Their focus remains purely on delivering exceptional sound quality for critical listening.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy HD 800 If…
- You prefer a slightly more analytical and revealing sound signature.
- You are looking for a headphone with a wider soundstage.
- You already own a high-quality headphone amplifier.
- You prioritize the original tuning and are comfortable with EQ adjustments if needed.
Buy HD 800S If…
- You prefer a more balanced and refined sound signature out of the box.
- You desire a slightly warmer and more forgiving presentation.
- You want a headphone that is easier to drive and more versatile.
- You appreciate the included balanced cable for a wider range of amplifier options.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main difference between the HD 800 and HD 800S?
The primary difference lies in their sound signature. The HD 800 has a brighter treble response, while the HD 800S offers a smoother, more balanced sound. The HD 800S also features the patented absorber technology, which helps to reduce unwanted resonances and deliver a more refined listening experience.
Which headphone is better for long listening sessions?
The HD 800S is generally better suited for long listening sessions due to its smoother treble response and more balanced sound signature. The HD 800, with its brighter sound, may cause listening fatigue over extended periods. The HD 800S provides a more relaxed and enjoyable listening experience for hours.
Do I need an amplifier for these headphones?
Yes, both the HD 800 and HD 800S require a dedicated headphone amplifier to perform optimally. They have high impedance and low sensitivity, meaning they need a powerful amplifier to drive them properly. A good amplifier is crucial for unlocking their full potential.
What is the soundstage like on these headphones?
Both headphones are renowned for their exceptional soundstage. They create a wide and accurate soundstage, allowing for precise placement of instruments and vocals. The HD 800 offers an expansive soundstage, while the HD 800S also delivers an immersive experience.
Are the HD 800 and HD 800S comfortable?
Yes, both headphones are very comfortable. They feature large, circumaural earcups and breathable microfiber earpads. The metal headband and overall design contribute to a comfortable and secure fit. The HD 800S offers a slightly improved design, but both are comfortable.
What music genres are these headphones best suited for?
Both headphones excel with a wide variety of music genres. The HD 800 is great for genres that benefit from a detailed and airy sound, such as classical and jazz. The HD 800S is well-suited for a broader range, including rock, pop, and electronic music, due to its more balanced sound.
What is the build quality like?
Both headphones boast excellent build quality. They are constructed with premium materials, including a metal headband and high-quality plastic earcups. The HD 800S has a slightly more refined design. Both are built to last and withstand regular use, ensuring longevity for audiophile enjoyment.
Final Verdict
The Sennheiser HD 800 and HD 800S are both exceptional headphones, offering a top-tier listening experience. While the HD 800 provides a spacious soundstage and detailed sound, the HD 800S improves on the original with a smoother, more balanced presentation and a more refined overall experience. The HD 800S is often considered the better choice for most listeners due to its enhanced sound signature and value proposition.
Winner: HD 800S