Sennheiser HD25 -- turning capsules

[Diggitty]

I have been eyeing the HD25-1 however I would prefer the capsule plugs to be on the bottom (aesthetics), rather than on top. Is is possible to use the stock cable and just turn the capsules 180 degrees? Although, I think the left and right cable partitions (beyond the single cord entry design) may not be of equal length.

Thanks.

[bangraman]

You can turn the capsules around and use an HD6x0 cable. Personally it doesn't work out for me for portable use, but perhaps it does for some.

[Diggitty]

Originally Posted by bangraman

You can turn the capsules around and use an HD6x0 cable. Personally it doesn't work out for me for portable use, but perhaps it does for some.

Thanks bangraman. Do you know if I could do the same yet stick with the original cable?

Also, IIRC you have or did have the PX200. Would you care to comment on its isolating properties vs. the HD25?

Thanks.

[Oliver :)]

Originally Posted by Diggitty

I have been eyeing the HD25-1 however I would prefer the capsule plugs to be on the bottom (aesthetics), rather than on top. Is is possible to use the stock cable and just turn the capsules 180 degrees? Although, I think the left and right cable partitions (beyond the single cord entry design) may not be of equal length.

Exactly, the supplied cord is asymmetric. You do want to upgrade the cord anyway to an OFC free one, the symmectrical ones are easier in a way, as the matching asymmetric one is long & terminated to 1/4". Personally, I would *not* recommend turning the capsules as they can fall off that way around. To me the aesthetics of the HD25 actually come from the visible cable, it makes them look more industrial. Plus it is more convenient.

[bangraman]

Originally Posted by Diggitty

Thanks bangraman. Do you know if I could do the same yet stick with the original cable?

You mean... like this?

Not much point


The cable is of relatively poor audio quality, but can withstand repeated yanking. There's a replacement asymmetric OFC cable available (as fitted to the HD25-13 600 ohm model) which will need retermination for portable use, but apart from that the options are to go for HD6xx cables. The HD25-1 is used in situations where I don't want to have to worry where it goes in my bag, and I can just throw it in there. The 25 is about the nearest thing to an invulnerable portable headphone... and as such, I'll take the audio hit for using the practically-speaking, excellent cable.

Also, IIRC you have or did have the PX200. Would you care to comment on its isolating properties vs. the HD25?

The difference in isolation is best described as "in another planet" The PX200 takes the edge effectively off outside sound. The HD25 genuinely isolates.