[raphaelmsx]

Hi people.

I had a Sennheiser HD202, used for about 14 years, now it finally broke.

Since I'm not finding anywhere a new one (locally), I'm considering HD206 and HD205-II.

I'm unable to test them before buying, and cannot buy both.

So, what are your thoughts regarding HD206 vs HD205-II, and which one is closest to HD202?

Oh, and are the ear cups similar size of HD202?

Thanks!

 

[willyboyaudio]

Hello, I have the HD202-II and HD201. Many say that HD206 is a rebranded HD201, so please feel free to extrapolate on how my comments apply to the 206. Here we go:
- The 201 has bigger and roomier earpads.
- The 201 has a lighter clamping force is lighter (to me, more comfortable).
- The 202 is lighter.
- The 202 is easier to drive on portable devices.

I don't have the HD205 so I cannot comment on that. I hope that is helpful to you, please let me know if there is anything specific you want to know.

 

[raphaelmsx]

Hello, and what can you tell me about sound quality, HD202-II vs HD201?

Thanks.

 

[willyboyaudio]

My units have mods done to them:
1. Cable on both units have been replaced with 1.2m twisted copper cable.
2. Earpads on both units have been peeled to expose the fabric underneath the pleather.

This is how they compare on my units, sorry if they're not accurately portraying the stock units, but at least the housing and drivers were not changed, hope it helps a little bit.

Bass: Punchier and 'boomier' on the HD202-II, music sounds full and 'big'. Bass on the HD201 is tight, mostly low bass, not much on the mid-bass, which is why many say they sound lean.

Mids: Mids have great clarity on the HD202-II, but I found some tracks can be honky a little bit. The HD201 sounds boring in comparison.

Vocals: Vocals have body and presence on the HD202-II, presented front and center. Mild sibilance on female vocals. On the HD201, vocals are recessed, but they have good clarity, very neutral, life-like.

Highs: Despite rumors that the HD202-II sounds bassy, they have good treble. HD201 sounds very mid-centric in comparison, not much treble.

 

[raphaelmsx]

Hmm, so I think I would prefer the HD202-II over the HD201 (and HD206).

Thanks, now gonna wait to see if someone can comment about the HD205-II.

 

[willyboyaudio]

Yes, I was in your position too, so I bought them both.
I wish there is a headphone with the sound of 202 and the comfort of 201 in this price range LOL.