Sennheiser HD 800 S

A legendary headphone with unparalleled soundstage and detail​

The Sennheiser HD800S is one of the most revered headphones in the audiophile community. As the successor to the HD800, the HD800S refined the already exceptional sound of its predecessor by addressing some of the minor complaints audiophiles had but kept the amazing sonic attributes, build quality and comfort.

So, I’ve been listening to the HD800 S for several weeks now and I initially wasn’t as impressed as I felt I should be, possible it was the hype associated with this headphone. But, it has not only grown on me, but I now think (with a little bit of EQ) this is the best headphone I have had the pleasure of reviewing.

So, I think it is a headphone that you “grow” into and while it looks a bit “goofy” and mostly made of plastic, the level of comfort, the ruggedness of the build and especially the sound quality are exceptional at any price.
And it’s also a headphone that requires some careful pairing and proper amplification to reach its full potential. But let’s dive into the details.

Unboxing Experience​

Sennheiser knows how to deliver a premium experience, and the HD800 S packaging reflects that. The headphone comes in a high-quality box:

With foam inserts to protect the headphones during transport:


Note: These are not my pictures - but they are indicative of the unboxing experience.


The inclusion of both single-ended and balanced cables is a great touch, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of setups right out of the box.

Note: The HD 800s which I borrowed, only came with the 6.3mm cable, but it is a very high quality cable:

The connectors are high quality, but they are proprietary and not the now typical dual 3.5mm connectors:

This is connector where you plug this cable into the HD 800 S:

Design, Build Quality, and Comfort​

The HD800 S shows excellent engineering, and you can tell this headphone will last a lifetime but compared to other $1000-$2000 headphones its looks will not sell it.

Note: When I asked my family to guess how much it cost were so far off it price I started laughing, but I had them previously guessing the price of some Meze Headphones so as far as judging a headphone by its looks is obviously an unfair test.

But the build quality is outstanding, with a combination of metal and high-grade plastic that ensures both durability and a lightweight feel. The black and silver finish gives the headphone a sleek and professional look.
Here are some closeups to give you an idea of the build quality:

Build Quality​

The large earcups are made from a durable polymer material that helps keep the weight down without compromising on strength.

The headband features metal reinforcements for added durability:


And the yokes are designed to provide just the right amount of clamping force:

I also like the subtly space at the top of the foam of the headband to reduce the heat build up at the top of your head:

The earpads themselves are large and shaped to maximize the angle of the driver to help create that immensive soundstage:

Note: The unit I borrowed is using third party replacement earpads and as you will see later in the measurements alternative earpads do subtly change the frequency response.

Comfort​

Comfort is where the HD800 S truly shines. The large, oval-shaped earcups completely surround your ears, and the microfiber earpads are incredibly soft and breathable.

Sound Quality​

The HD800 S is all about precision, detail, and soundstage. It’s a headphone that excels in delivering an analytical yet musical listening experience, making it ideal for audiophiles and professionals alike.

Bass​

The bass on the HD800 S is tight, controlled, though I initially felt it was missing a little sub-bass (or specifically I thought the bass sounded more like my HD600), but when I investigated I realised the earpads were replaced with third party ones and their bass roll-off was a little deeper than from the original Sennheiser stock pads. Therefore, I did investigate a little sub-bass EQ, and ultimately I used that EQ to for most of my listening experience.
So, while it’s not bass-heavy, it’s incredibly accurate, making it perfect for genres like classical, jazz, and acoustic. Tracks like “Billie Jean” by Michael Jackson reveal the clarity and punch of the bass without any hint of muddiness.

Midrange​

The midrange is where the HD800 S really excels. Vocals and instruments are presented with stunning clarity and separation. Listening to “Someone Like You” by Adele is an emotional experience, with every nuance of her voice captured perfectly. I think its is crucial that this headphone provides that accurate midrange while not loosing that large soundstage, too often there is a trade-off between soundstage and midrange tonality but not with the HD 800 S, you get a tonally accurate headphone with a wide spacious soundstage.

Treble​

The treble is detailed and airy but very smooth with no treble peaks. Tracks like “Vivaldi’s Four Seasons” highlight the HD800 S’s ability to reproduce high-frequency details without sounding harsh and across my typical 5-hour audiophile playlist, I did not hear any excess treble yet was astonished again and again with the subtle detail the HD800 S provided.

Soundstage and Imaging​

The soundstage of the HD800 S is nothing short of legendary. It’s wide, deep, and immersive, giving you the feeling of being in a concert hall. Imaging is pinpoint accurate, allowing you to place every instrument and sound effect with precision. Tracks like “Hotel California” (Live) by Eagles are a perfect showcase for the HD800 S’s spatial capabilities. On other tracks like Bjork’s “The Hunter” the 3D aspects of the soundstage was amazing with detailed pinpoint accurate placement of the instrument swirling around your head.

Specifications and Measurements​

With a 300 Ω impedance and moderate sensitivity, the HD800 S requires proper amplification to perform at its best. Pairing it with a high-quality DAC/amp really does bring out the best.

I tried it with the both the new FiiO K17 (providing a little EQ sub-bass boost):


And also with the JDS Labs also new and excellent Element IV as my desktop Amplifier of choice that also provides a little EQ sub-bass boost:

Measurements​

Note: The following measurements were taken with my KB501X soft ear Pinna and a 711 clone coupler. They are available on my measurement database here.

Frequency Response​

The HD800 S has a neutral tuning with slight bass roll-off and a smooth natural treble, but Sennheiser has used some clever tricks with the Frequency response to give and added sense of soundstage. Specifically in the 1Khz-2Khz region.

The following graph compared 2 HD800s with stock earpads with model I borrowed using the Dekoni Earpads and you can see that extra roll-off in the sub-bass, which I EQed to preference anyway so not a big deal for me:

I did decide to investigate the changes with different earpads and Dekoni to their credit do publish the changes these earpads make and as you can see here it does show that extra roll-off in the bass region:

So I thought I would leave an unaffiliated link these dekoni pads should people be interested:
https://bloomaudio.com/products/dekoni-audio-elite-earpads-sennheiser-hd800?variant=39929092341835

One thing I was asked to look at with the HD800s was positional variations and the effect of glasses on the frequency response and I have got to say it is fantastic where there is almost no change in the FR with various placements, and different clamping force and even when using glasses:

Distortion​

Distortion levels are incredibly low, even at higher volumes:

And showing the distortion as a percentage you can see it is minimal:

So this headphone will easily take to EQ should you want to apply some and I did specifically in that sub-bass region.
The waterfall chart of the HD800s is also excellent one of the best I had seen:

EQ Recommendation​

While the HD800 S is fantastic out of the box, I did do a little sub-bass boost, so specifically I pulled up the sub-bass initially to compensate for the differences in replacement earpads in this sub-bass region, but mainly for my personal preferences.

This is eqMac when playing a sub-bass heavy track to show the effect of that bass EQ change:

Rating​

I’ve given the Sennheiser HD800 S a pragmatic 5-star rating. It’s a headphone that excels in all the areas that matter most to audiophiles: tonality, soundstage, detail, and comfort. While not the best looking headphone it grew on me immensely over the past few months and I will be sad to return it, but happy to have been given the opportunity to give it the time it deserves to write this review.

While it’s not cheap, it is a purchase that can last a lifetime and together with its exceptional performance it easily justifies the price.

Conclusion​

The Sennheiser HD800 S is a headphone that has earned its legendary status. Whether you’re a seasoned audiophile or someone looking to invest in a true flagship headphone, the HD800 S should be at the top of your list. Its combination of unmatched soundstage, precise imaging, and exceptional comfort makes it a joy to use for both music listening and professional applications.

If you’re looking for a headphone that delivers an immersive and analytical listening experience, the HD800 S is a worthy choice, I finally understand why this is a legendary headphone.

The first thing that stands out when listening to the HD800S is the expansive soundstage. It’s absolutely breathtaking. These headphones create an open, almost three-dimensional sound that feels more like you’re in the room with the musicians rather than listening through a pair of headphones. The soundstage is incredibly wide and deep, and it’s as if each instrument is placed in its own defined space. The imaging is razor-sharp, with instruments precisely positioned within the soundstage. I can distinctly hear every little nuance in the music, whether it's a slight vocal inflection or the subtle breath of a string instrument. Compared to other headphones I’ve tried, the HD800S' ability to separate instruments in a large, complex track is unparalleled. The clarity and definition across the stereo field are astonishing. The result is a listening experience that doesn’t just immerse you in the music but allows you to really appreciate every element of the performance.

The dynamic range of the HD800S is also exceptional. The headphones are capable of handling both the quietest, most delicate moments in a track and the loudest, most energetic passages without distortion or loss of detail. The contrast between soft and loud sounds is managed so well that it keeps the listening experience engaging throughout, no matter the genre. This is where the Xduoo TA-66 really shines, bringing out the best in the HD800S by providing a smooth, balanced output with plenty of power to drive them comfortably, even at higher volumes. The TA-66 adds a touch of warmth and richness to the sound, which complements the HD800S' transparency and clarity, creating a more cohesive and enjoyable experience overall.

The bass response of the HD800S is tight and controlled, with excellent extension. While they are not known for the “thumping” low-end that some other headphones emphasize, the bass here is exceptionally clean and detailed, with just enough presence to provide a full-bodied sound without overwhelming the midrange or highs. I’ve noticed that bass-heavy tracks still have plenty of depth and presence, but the HD800S excels more in offering clarity rather than sheer punch. Paired with the Xduoo TA-66, the bass feels slightly more textured and defined, with the tubes providing a subtle warmth that enhances the overall experience. The bass may not be the most authoritative I’ve heard, but it’s certainly accurate and precise, making it ideal for genres that prioritize midrange clarity, like classical, jazz, or acoustic music.

The midrange is, in a word, exquisite. Vocals and instruments come across with an incredible sense of realism and texture. Male and female vocals both sound natural and lifelike, with a richness that allows every detail to shine through. I’m particularly impressed with how the HD800S handles the midrange frequencies; there’s no harshness or forwardness, just a beautifully balanced presentation that keeps you engaged for hours. The mids are presented with great transparency, and there’s an organic quality to the sound that makes even the most complex arrangements feel effortless. I find myself rediscovering tracks I thought I knew well, as the HD800S unveils hidden details and subtleties that I hadn’t noticed before. The clarity and tonal accuracy in the midrange make it ideal for vocals, acoustic instruments, and orchestral music.

The high frequencies are another area where the HD800S excels. The treble is crisp, detailed, and extended without ever sounding sibilant or fatiguing. Cymbals shimmer with a delicate brilliance, and strings have a natural sheen to them that is difficult to match. The Xduoo TA-66, while offering some natural warmth and smoothing out the sound, doesn’t detract from the crispness and clarity of the highs, making them feel refined but never harsh. The combination of the HD800S’ extended treble and the smoothness of the TA-66 results in a very balanced and engaging top end. The treble is detailed enough to pick up subtle elements like the reverb in a recording, or the fine overtones of a piano, but it never becomes piercing or fatiguing. The overall balance between the highs and the rest of the frequency range is spot on, ensuring a natural and engaging listening experience.

While the HD800S excels in nearly every category, there is a minor downside to consider. The sound signature, while incredibly detailed and immersive, can feel a bit too analytical for some listeners, especially when it comes to genres that benefit from a more colored or energetic sound. If you're after a headphone with a bit more warmth or low-end emphasis, the HD800S may not be your ideal choice. Additionally, while the HD800S has a very large soundstage, it can sometimes feel too wide in certain tracks, slightly diminishing the sense of intimacy in more vocal-centric or small ensemble pieces. This is a very subjective observation, though, and I personally appreciate the open, airy sound.

Overall, the Sennheiser HD800S, driven by the Xduoo TA-66, is an absolute revelation. The level of detail, separation, and imaging that these headphones provide is on another level compared to other high-end models. The dynamics are impeccable, the bass is controlled yet deep, and the midrange and highs are simply glorious. The soundstage is immense, and the imaging is precise, giving you a truly holographic listening experience. The synergy between the HD800S and the TA-66 just takes it to a whole new level, making this setup an absolute joy to listen to. Despite a couple of minor reservations regarding its analytical nature, the HD800S is a standout in the audiophile world, and I’m thoroughly enjoying every moment spent with them. If you’re looking for a headphone that delivers the finest in audiophile-quality sound, the HD800S should be at the top of your list.

Intro/disclaimer :​

- The unit was bought on my own, and long before I met anyone at Sennheiser.

I cannot post the pictures the way I used to, integrated int the review as I used to. So, until Head-Fi fixes this issue, here's a Imgur link : https://imgur.com/a/ifXdZXE

# First Impressions :​

- Unboxing : Not as nice as the previous iteration of the 800S, the simple foam and packed cables is kinda sparse for a near two thousand euros product. The product itself is so well made though, it makes up for a big part of the experience. At launch, the box featured a velour pad to hide the foam, which I don't think is superfluous for this type of product.
- Comfort is one of the strongest points of these headphones : the clamp force is never a bother, the weight is so low you're never strained by it, and the pads are the perfect softness to stay put once you've sitted the headphones on your head. The adjustment mechanism for the length of the arms is very finely adjustable, making for a super easy fit. Very well designed through and through.

# Sound :​

- The tuning of the 800S is a reference point for me, and for many others as well. The balance is linear throughout the whole range, with an emphasis in the presence region to stick to the Diffuse Field target. Paired with the outrageously open nature of the headphones (the use of titanium wire mesh feels like there's no material around your head, don't ask it's engineering magic) makes for the best timbre I've heard in headphones to this day, even when comparing with headphones 30x the price. Yes, it's a bold statement. I listened to the HE-1 at Munich during the High End Festival, and yes it was an experience beyeond anything I'd heard previously, I prefer the balance of the venerable 800S.

# Tonality :​

- The bass of the 800S is sometimes refered to as lean, or lacking sub, or else. I totally disagree with these statements. It features a lean**er** amount compared to some other Audezes or Focals, on that we agree. But the Sennheiser approach is one focused on natural replay and accurate timbre. And on that front, it's highly accurate. The extension in the sub bass is brilliant, and I can hear notes as low as my hearing can perceive. If you've ever listened to a studio monitoring setup with multiple small subs, then you know what the 800S bass sounds like. But, substract 2 or 3dB from what you'd assume.

- The midrange. Oh, the midrange. This is by far the best part of these headphones for me. The degree of realism these headphones produce simply astounds me. The intro of the song Golden Age by the band Esprit d'Escalier always gives me goosebumps when I listen to it with the 800S. The replay of the singer's voice, the echoing reverbs, the layers of synth, it all comes together so well. I don't often quote my music choices to justify talking about products, but for this review I simply have to. Another track to seal the deal would be "It happened Quiet - live at The Current" by Aurora. The chills you feel when the vocal harmonies fly up in the register is something not a lot of speakers manage to make me feel, but it never fails to do so with these headphones. The linearity of the frequency response is, I think, the major contributor to this impression because you're solely engaging with the music and never notice and dip or bump in volume throughout the range.

- The treble of the 800S is maybe its most infamous trait, although I think some exaggeration has built up over the years. Without EQ, the presence region can overpower the rest of the mix and I'll agree on that front, given the record features prominent and harsh audio to begin with. I do not, however, agree with the complaints regarding sibilance and artificial timbre in this area. The 800S features exceptional extension in the highs, and never sounds distorted, grainy or artifical when fed quality source files.

It does excel in revealing flaws however, and I suspect that to be the source of all evil. Listening to compressed files such as Spotify music or mp3s is simply not pleasant. The artifacts stand out way too much.

But give it any good lossless material, or uncompressed WAVs, and things smooth out. You gain back the air that was cut off by the mp3 format, and once freed of the artifacts the treble reveals its utmost precision and unforgiving definition.

-> The HD800S will make you love your best recorded albums, and hate your poorly recorded ones. Because once you've enjoyed being part of the audience of a live classical concert, sat among the crowd in a theatre from the comfort of your couch, there's simply no going back.

# Technicalities :​

- Soundstage :
Known for it's spatialization capabilities, I'm happy to say that my unit delivers everything you've read about and more. Take the confines of your skull and expand them way out in every direction, and enjoy the 3D experience. You get to enjoy what feels like limitless soundstage compared to any other headphones, and precise imaging to pair it with. Depth perception is uncanny of realism and verticality very well transcribed.

- Detail retrieval :
For me this is the aspect that should stand out the most and not the soundstage when talking about the 800S. Since its release in 2009, the 800 series has met competition that has tried to rival with its psychoacoustic feats. But the detail retrieval you get with the 800S is almost never matched, and it baffles me why I don't see more people talking about it. Even with busy genres of music, the separation and detail given to each sound cue is of perfect accuracy.

- Transient response is a topic common to most if not all my reviews, because I value it to the same degree as tonality or spatialization. In a sense, it encapsulates dynamics and details, timbre and realism all at once. The perception of "speed" as is often referred to in the hobby comes from how close to real life these recorded transients can be reproduced. I've been a drummer for 17 years now, so I'm going to be bold and assume that I know what drums sound like in real life. I can discern a blunted snare hit from an accurately displayed one. Yes, I know, mixing & mastering engineers have acces to transient shaping tools, but I've been there and mixed too, used those tools as well and have acces to raw recordings of myself.

When I say that I hear exactly my drums, my mics and my preamps **and nothing more** when I listen through these headphones, I really mean it. The cymbal characteristics, the decay and harmonic clashes, nothing's left behind. So far I've only encountered one set of speakers that have the same abilities, even after High End Munich 2023 and the myriad of stands I've been to. So yes, I'm really impressed.

# Conclusion :​

- Final impressions : I've been using these headphones for a full year before writing this review. I may not be the fastest reviewer around, but I take pride in knowing full well what I'm talking about. I've been a musician for almost two decades, have mixed and produced songs, toured many a times and played many a great gigs, and listened to audiophile systems for even longer than that.

So I know the weight of my words when I write that these headphones are a perfect tool for hearing music the way I hear music in real life.
A human voice through an Aston Spirit microphone will come out to you as if the person is speaking directly to you, as if you were standing in front of him/her. It's as simple as that, the headphones are transparent. So, just like in real life, if the instrument is unpleasant to listen to (try standing next to a saxophonist playing full blast, or a bagpipes band without earplugs) then it'll be equally as unpleasant throught these headphones. Which is exactly what I look for, and maybe you don't.
If you prefer your bass louder than the original mix, if you want the harshness of the instruments taken away for you so it's never fatiguing to listen to, you're free to do so with any other headphones. Because the 800S will only do one thing, and whatever's been recorded. And perfectly faithfully so.