Every time a new Sennheiser appears in the more expensive over-ear segment, endless discussions start about likes and dislikes, comparisons with previous models are made and many conflicting opinions are expressed, along with common or contradicting impressions of the first listenings.
Preferences vary and it seems that headphones don't behave the same way on every pair of ears. However we are all in quest for our own personal "perfect" headphone - perfect for our own ears and favorite music genres. Of course we may use more headphones depending on activity or other needs but there is usually one place for a "reference" sound headphone or "reference enjoyment"!
What kind of sound or headphone would you "order" to Sennheiser (or any maker) if you could? Let's speak our mind, regardless of known marketing rules and restrictions!
I'll make a start: Many years ago a bought my first serious headphone as soon as it appeared: A fine HD-580 Precision which gave me great enjoyment for many years. When HD-600 was launched I found that it was not a very big improvement because I wanted more bass extension and smoother highs. Which I felt were offered later with the HD-650 - it was love at first listening! A love that lasts 20 years! I have two pairs! During this time I got much better electronics and learned to recognize headphone limitations. HD-800/800S was not for me, also. Too bass-shy (I hate excessive bass too) and highs that could get piercing. The HD-650 remained my favorite. I listened to other makers' significant models but nothing replaced my HD-650 (until very recently).
At this moment I know that my dream Sennheiser would have:
- the general shape of the 6## series. I like oval pads better than round ones. Preferably I bit less oval would be ideal (an idea for a new headphone). I don't like the aesthetics of the HD-800S, mostly because of the "ugly" one-sided swiveling arm. A weight under 400gr is very important.
- the general tuning of the HD-650. Not more bright, not less bright. But of course with more deep bass and with slightly less mid-bass than the HD-650. (Let's see if the HD-660S2 will have this kind of bass balance). A little subdued high mids might be an improvement too.
- more resolution and detail than HD-650, as the HD-800S offers but without the artificial boost of detail via excessive (and potentially fatiguing) treble. A detailed and controlled character for the bass region too.
- ...All these for less (or around) €1000! We already know that it can be done. Silly money can be payed by those who want luxury finish or exotic design/materials. We love headphones but we love people and music more!
I hope that this dreamy thread could became a place of inspiration for makers and listeners!
Preferences vary and it seems that headphones don't behave the same way on every pair of ears. However we are all in quest for our own personal "perfect" headphone - perfect for our own ears and favorite music genres. Of course we may use more headphones depending on activity or other needs but there is usually one place for a "reference" sound headphone or "reference enjoyment"!
What kind of sound or headphone would you "order" to Sennheiser (or any maker) if you could? Let's speak our mind, regardless of known marketing rules and restrictions!
I'll make a start: Many years ago a bought my first serious headphone as soon as it appeared: A fine HD-580 Precision which gave me great enjoyment for many years. When HD-600 was launched I found that it was not a very big improvement because I wanted more bass extension and smoother highs. Which I felt were offered later with the HD-650 - it was love at first listening! A love that lasts 20 years! I have two pairs! During this time I got much better electronics and learned to recognize headphone limitations. HD-800/800S was not for me, also. Too bass-shy (I hate excessive bass too) and highs that could get piercing. The HD-650 remained my favorite. I listened to other makers' significant models but nothing replaced my HD-650 (until very recently).
At this moment I know that my dream Sennheiser would have:
- the general shape of the 6## series. I like oval pads better than round ones. Preferably I bit less oval would be ideal (an idea for a new headphone). I don't like the aesthetics of the HD-800S, mostly because of the "ugly" one-sided swiveling arm. A weight under 400gr is very important.
- the general tuning of the HD-650. Not more bright, not less bright. But of course with more deep bass and with slightly less mid-bass than the HD-650. (Let's see if the HD-660S2 will have this kind of bass balance). A little subdued high mids might be an improvement too.
- more resolution and detail than HD-650, as the HD-800S offers but without the artificial boost of detail via excessive (and potentially fatiguing) treble. A detailed and controlled character for the bass region too.
- ...All these for less (or around) €1000! We already know that it can be done. Silly money can be payed by those who want luxury finish or exotic design/materials. We love headphones but we love people and music more!
I hope that this dreamy thread could became a place of inspiration for makers and listeners!
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. I also really like my Sennheiser HD580 Jubilee, I don't know what I would change about it.
