These top-tier headphones have maintained their popularity since 2003, and I find myself utterly captivated by them
The Sennheiser HD 650 headphones, a favourite among audiophiles and music enthusiasts, have been making waves in the audio industry since their release in 2003. These headphones were designed to offer a high-fidelity listening experience, providing precise audio reproduction and comfort for extended listening sessions.
Priced at £409 in the UK (currently available at a discount of £20), the HD 650 headphones are a significant investment for music lovers. However, they are considered industry-leading headphones in the audiophile, studio, and reference categories.
Unlike commercial headphones like Beats and Skull Candy, which often have a V-shaped frequency profile with an emphasis on sub and lower bass, the HD 650 headphones offer a more neutral sound. They deliver a punchy and clear bass, a revelatory mid-range, and a 'rolled off' treble that reduces the sharpness of high frequencies, resulting in a warmer sound profile compared to their predecessor, the HD 600 headphones.
One of the standout features of the HD 650 headphones is their imaging. They map instruments in space clearly, preventing a muddy sound. This quality, paired with their ability to provide a detailed and loud sound even without a dedicated amp (as demonstrated by plugging them into a MacBook Air), makes them ideal for critical listening.
The soundstage of the HD 650 headphones is not particularly large, but they offer precise identification of instruments and their roles. This makes them an excellent choice for listening to a wide range of music, from Quincy Jones-produced Off the Wall to the intricate arrangements of classical music.
The HD 650 headphones have an impedance of 300 ohms and a sensitivity of 103 dB at 1V, requiring a dedicated amp for optimal performance. The addition of an amp will ensure continued appreciation of music with improved loudness, clarity, and precision.
In the quest for the magic of live music through headphones, audiophiles aim to find headphones with a neutral frequency profile. The HD 650 headphones, with their commitment to playing music exactly as it was meant to be heard, without extra bass, treble flares, or added color, are a step in that direction.
In summary, the Sennheiser HD 650 headphones are a worthy investment for those seeking a high-fidelity, detailed, and open-back listening experience. Their warmer sound profile, clear imaging, and comfortable design make them a favourite among audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike.
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