Sennheiser Hd 800 vs 800s: Which Audiophile Headphone Reigns?
Are you ready to dive into the world of high-fidelity audio? The Sennheiser HD 800 and its successor, the HD 800 S, are legendary headphones, revered by audiophiles for their exceptional sound quality and build.
Choosing between these two titans can be a challenge. Both offer a premium listening experience, but subtle differences might sway your decision. This comparison will delve into the nuances of the Sennheiser HD 800 vs 800 S, helping you determine which headphone is the perfect match for your ears and listening preferences.
We’ll examine their design, sound signatures, and overall performance, providing insights to guide your purchase. Get ready to explore the world of ultra-high-end audio and discover which Sennheiser masterpiece deserves a place on your head.
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | HD 800 | 800S |
|---|---|---|
| Driver Size | 56mm | 56mm |
| Frequency Response | 4 – 51,000 Hz | 4 – 51,000 Hz |
| Impedance | 300 Ohms | 300 Ohms |
| Sensitivity | 102 dB | 102 dB |
| THD | < 0.02% | < 0.02% |
| Weight | 330 g | 330 g |
| Ear Coupling | Over-Ear, Open-Back | Over-Ear, Open-Back |
| Cable Connector | Proprietary | Proprietary, 4.4mm Pentaconn |
| Ear Pads | Microfiber | Microfiber |
| Headband | Metal with Acoustic Dampening | Metal with Acoustic Dampening |
| Construction | High-quality materials | High-quality materials |
| Included Accessories | Cable, Manual | Cable, Manual, Case |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Driver Technology
- Sennheiser Hd 800: Uses Sennheiser’s innovative 56mm ring radiator drivers known for their wide soundstage and low distortion. Offers a highly detailed and revealing sound signature. Some find the treble a bit harsh.
- 800s: Also features 56mm ring radiator drivers, but with the addition of a proprietary absorber technology to tame the peaky treble response. This results in a smoother, more refined sound.
- Winner: 800s
Sound Signature
- Sennheiser Hd 800: Known for its analytical and neutral sound signature with a prominent treble response. Provides exceptional detail retrieval and imaging. Can be fatiguing for some listeners.
- 800s: Shares the analytical approach of the HD 800 but with a more balanced and smoother sound signature. Treble is toned down, resulting in a more relaxed and enjoyable listening experience.
- Winner: 800s
Frequency Response
- Sennheiser Hd 800: 14 – 44,000 Hz. Wide frequency range that captures a large spectrum of sound. Provides a detailed and revealing sound.
- 800s: 4 – 51,000 Hz. Extended frequency range, offering a slightly wider perception of sound. The extended high-end makes the sound more airy.
- Winner: 800s
Build Quality & Design
- Sennheiser Hd 800: Features a robust build with high-quality materials, including stainless steel and microfiber ear pads. Its distinctive design is iconic.
- 800s: Shares the same premium build quality and design as the HD 800, with subtle aesthetic changes. Retains the comfort and durability of its predecessor.
- Winner: Tie
Comfort
- Sennheiser Hd 800: Offers excellent comfort with its large earcups and circumaural design. The microfiber ear pads are soft and breathable.
- 800s: Maintains the same high level of comfort as the HD 800, ensuring long listening sessions are comfortable.
- Winner: Tie
Impedance & Sensitivity
- Sennheiser Hd 800: 300 ohms impedance, requiring a dedicated headphone amplifier to perform optimally. Offers high sensitivity.
- 800s: 300 ohms impedance, just like HD 800, also benefits from a dedicated headphone amplifier.
- Winner: Tie
Accessories
- Sennheiser Hd 800: Typically includes a high-quality cable, a storage case, and a cleaning cloth.
- 800s: Includes a balanced cable in addition to a standard cable, offering a more versatile experience.
- Winner: 800s
Price
- Sennheiser Hd 800: Typically available at a slightly lower price point than the 800s, reflecting its older release.
- 800s: Generally more expensive due to its updated technology and improved sound signature.
- Winner: HD 800
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Overall Sound Quality (Subjective) | Tie |
| Sound Signature Preference | Depends on Listener |
| Build Quality | Tie |
| Accessories | 800S |
| Value | Depends on Price |
What They Have in Common:
- Driver Technology: Both headphones utilize Sennheiser’s innovative 56mm dynamic drivers, known for their exceptional sound reproduction and wide soundstage.
- Open-Back Design: Both the HD 800 and 800S feature an open-back design, contributing to a spacious and airy sound signature that allows for a natural listening experience.
- High-Quality Build: Both models share a commitment to premium build quality, using high-quality materials to ensure durability and a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
- Impedance: Both headphones have an impedance of 300 Ohms, indicating they both require a dedicated headphone amplifier to perform optimally.
- Frequency Response: Both headphones share a very wide frequency response range, ensuring they can reproduce a wide range of sounds.
Sennheiser HD 800 vs 800S Buying Guide
Sound Quality Comparison
The Sennheiser HD 800 and 800S both offer exceptional sound quality, but with subtle differences. The HD 800 is renowned for its incredibly wide soundstage and analytical presentation, making it ideal for pinpointing details in complex recordings. The 800S builds upon this foundation, offering a slightly warmer and more forgiving sound signature due to its improved resonance absorption. This makes the 800S slightly more versatile and enjoyable across a wider range of music genres, while still retaining the impressive detail retrieval of its predecessor. Both headphones require a high-quality amplifier to truly shine.
Comfort and Build Quality
Both headphones share a similar design philosophy, prioritizing comfort and build quality. The HD 800 and 800S feature large circumaural earcups and soft, breathable microfiber earpads, ensuring a comfortable listening experience even during extended sessions. The build quality is exceptional, with high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The primary difference lies in the color and the slight modifications in the 800S’s resonance absorption system. Both are built to last, offering a premium feel that justifies their price point.
Soundstage and Imaging
The soundstage is a defining characteristic of both the HD 800 and 800S. The HD 800 is famous for its expansive soundstage that feels almost holographic. The 800S maintains a similarly impressive soundstage, with a slightly more focused and cohesive presentation. Imaging is precise on both models, allowing you to accurately pinpoint the location of instruments and vocals within the soundscape. For listeners who prioritize a wide and immersive listening experience, both headphones deliver exceptionally well.
Amplification Requirements
Both the HD 800 and 800S are demanding headphones that require a powerful and high-quality amplifier to perform at their best. Their high impedance and sensitivity necessitate an amplifier that can deliver sufficient power and current without distortion. Investing in a dedicated headphone amplifier is crucial to unlock their full potential. Consider amplifiers from brands like Schiit, Chord Electronics, or RME to achieve optimal results. Matching the amplifier to the headphone’s sonic characteristics is also important.
Price and Value
The HD 800 and 800S are premium headphones, reflecting their high-end construction and exceptional sound quality. The 800S is typically priced slightly higher than the original HD 800, which can sometimes be found at a discounted price. Considering the sonic improvements and the potential for a more versatile sound signature, the 800S offers excellent value for the discerning audiophile. Factors such as personal preference and budget should be considered when deciding which model to purchase.
Music Genre Suitability
While both headphones excel across a variety of genres, their strengths lie in different areas. The HD 800’s analytical presentation is particularly well-suited for classical, jazz, and other genres where detail retrieval is paramount. The 800S, with its slightly warmer sound signature, is more versatile and enjoyable across a wider range of genres, including rock, pop, and electronic music. Ultimately, the best choice depends on your personal listening preferences and the music you enjoy most frequently. Both headphones deliver a premium listening experience.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy HD 800 If…
- You prioritize a slightly more analytical and revealing sound signature.
- You already own a high-quality headphone amplifier and DAC.
- You prefer the classic HD 800 aesthetic.
- You are looking for a headphone with a proven track record and reputation.
Buy 800S If…
- You prefer a more balanced and slightly warmer sound signature.
- You want a headphone that might be a bit more forgiving with less-than-perfect recordings.
- You appreciate the inclusion of a balanced cable and a hard case.
- You are looking for a slightly more refined version of the HD 800 experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the main differences between the HD 800 and 800S?
The primary difference lies in the sound signature. The 800S features improved resonance absorption and a slightly warmer, more forgiving sound compared to the HD 800’s more analytical presentation. This results in a more versatile headphone that is slightly less fatiguing over longer listening sessions. The 800S also has a new black finish and comes with a balanced cable.
Which headphone has a wider soundstage?
Both headphones possess a remarkably wide soundstage. The HD 800 is often praised for its expansive and almost holographic soundstage, while the 800S maintains a similarly impressive width. However, the 800S offers a slightly more focused and cohesive presentation. Ultimately, the perceived width is subjective and depends on the recording.
Do I need a special amplifier for these headphones?
Yes, both the HD 800 and 800S require a high-quality, dedicated headphone amplifier to perform optimally. Their high impedance and sensitivity demand an amplifier that can deliver sufficient power without distortion. Investing in a suitable amplifier is crucial to unlock the full potential of these headphones, ensuring the best possible listening experience.
Are the HD 800 and 800S comfortable to wear?
Yes, both headphones are designed with comfort in mind. They feature large circumaural earcups, soft microfiber earpads, and a lightweight design, allowing for comfortable listening sessions even over extended periods. The materials used are breathable and the overall design is well-engineered for extended wear.
What is the build quality like?
The build quality is exceptional on both models. They feature high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The use of premium materials ensures durability and a premium feel. These headphones are built to last and are a testament to Sennheiser’s commitment to quality.
Which headphone is better for gaming?
Both are excellent for gaming due to their exceptional soundstage and imaging capabilities. This helps with directional cues and immersion. The 800S, with its slightly warmer sound signature, might be preferable for some gamers. However, it depends on personal preference and the game’s sound design.
Which headphone is a better value?
Value is subjective and depends on your specific needs and priorities. The HD 800 can sometimes be found at a discounted price, which makes it an attractive option. The 800S, with its sonic improvements, offers excellent value for its price. Considering all factors, both headphones offer great value within the high-end headphone market.
Final Verdict
The Sennheiser HD 800 and 800S are both exceptional headphones, offering top-tier sound quality and build. While the HD 800 excels in detail retrieval and soundstage width, the 800S provides a more versatile and slightly warmer sound signature, making it suitable for a wider range of music genres. The choice ultimately depends on personal preference. The 800S slightly edges out the HD 800 due to its refined sound and more forgiving nature.
Winner: Sennheiser HD 800S