Review of the best according to the editorial board. On the selection criteria. This material is subjective and does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.
A huge number of manufacturers of all kinds of electronics and accessories are represented on the modern market, and the number of units of the products themselves is beyond comprehension. Against this background, highly specialized manufacturers, especially those with a deep history, are of increasing interest. In the context of today's review, the German company Sennheiser is of such interest, which has been specializing in the production of high-quality semi-professional and professional radio equipment for more than 70 years, and for the most part – audio communication, broadcast, and any other methods of listening.
- Rating of the best Sennheiser headphones
- Best in-ear headphones (earplugs) Sennheiser
- Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear Wireless
- Advantages
- disadvantages
- Sennheiser CX 6.00BT
- Advantages
- disadvantages
- Sennheiser IE 4
- Advantages
- disadvantages
- Best Sennheiser on-ear headphones
- Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Wireless (M2 OEBT)
- Advantages
- disadvantages
- Sennheiser HD 25
- Advantages
- disadvantages
- Sennheiser HD 2.20S
- Advantages
- disadvantages
- Best Sennheiser full-size headphones
- Sennheiser HD 800
- Advantages
- disadvantages
- Sennheiser HD 650
- Advantages
- disadvantages
- Sennheiser Momentum Over-Ear Wireless (M2 AEBT)
- Advantages
- disadvantages
Rating of the best Sennheiser headphones
Nomination | a place | Name of product | price |
Best in-ear headphones (earplugs) Sennheiser | 1 | Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear Wireless | RUB 8,500 |
2 | Sennheiser CX 6.00BT | RUB 5,000 | |
3 | Sennheiser IE 4 | RUB 2,890 | |
Best Sennheiser on-ear headphones | 1 | Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Wireless (M2 OEBT) | 12 189 RUB |
2 | Sennheiser HD 25 | RUB 10,690 | |
3 | Sennheiser HD 2.20S | RUB 3,150 | |
Best Sennheiser full-size headphones | 1 | Sennheiser HD 800 | RUB 54,990 |
2 | Sennheiser HD 650 | RUB 21,340 | |
3 | Sennheiser Momentum Over-Ear Wireless (M2 AEBT) | RUB 16 950 |
Best in-ear headphones (earplugs) Sennheiser
The rating presented by our experts is built on the principle 'from lowest to highest', so we will start with the smallest solutions from Sennheiser – in-ear in-ear headphones, in the common people called 'plugs'.
Sennheiser Momentum In-Ear Wireless
Rating: 4.9
And the first issue we will consider is a very bright and rather expensive premium model from the Momentum series.
The headset is made in a common form factor with a collar holder. The signal is transmitted wirelessly Bluetooth 4.1 using the Qualcomm® apt-X ™ codec. For instant communication between two devices, it is supported by NFC technology. There is a built-in microphone. Equipped with LED status indication.
The materials from which the headset is made are of the highest level and quality. The collar is covered in soft yet durable semi-aniline imitation leather. The precision air ducts are made of stainless steel. The metal parts of the gadget sparkle with a flawless mirrored chrome finish. Impact-resistant polycarbonate is also partly used.
Strictly technical characteristics of this model are as follows: sound reproduction in the range from 15 to 22 thousand Hz; sound pressure – up to 112 dB; nonlinear distortion rate – less than 0.5%; directional diagram – circular; sensitivity according to the 121 TR 9-5 protocol – – 44 dBV / Pa; supports A2DP + AVRCP + HSP + HFP and AptX codec profiles; .
The headset is controlled by a three-button block, with which you can adjust the sound parameters and control the calls of a wirelessly connected smartphone on the go. Supports simultaneous connection with two external devices. Voice prompts indicate the status of pairing with other devices and the battery charge. The vibration function also signals incoming calls to the smartphone.
The autonomy of the device within about 10 hours of continuous operation is provided by a 170 mAh battery. Full charge time is 1.5 hours.
The set includes the headphones themselves; four pairs of in-ear cushions of different sizes for secure fit, noise reduction and comfort; convenient case for storage and transportation.
Advantages
- powerful bass;
- quality materials;
- realistic sound card;
- good autonomy.
disadvantages
- turns off when communication with one device is lost, even if another is in sight.
Sennheiser CX 6.00BT
Rating: 4.8
The second position in Sennheiser's earplug rating group is the ultra-lightweight CX 6.00BT cordless model. Its weight is only 14 grams, and is quite pleasing with the signature sound from Sennheiser.
By the type of communication, the headphones are similar to the previous model – Bluetooth 4.2, in the same way they contain a built-in microphone and LED indication. In terms of design, there is already an important difference – the headphones have an ear clip. The developers deserve a special 'thank you' from users iPhone for maximum adaptation to this particular family of smartphones.
The software part of the device is also quite at its height and for the most part does not lag behind the previous, twice as expensive model. Here we also see support for the AVRCP profile and the Qualcomm® apt-X ™ codec. As for the codec, it should also be added that the headphones decode sound in Low Latency mode as quickly as possible, which ensures the maximum possible synchronization of sound and video when watching movies, videos on the Internet or video games. The sound is reproduced in the range from 17 to 21 thousand Hz, the sound pressure is up to 112 dB.
The functionality of this headset is comparable to the one described above – it can be connected to two devices at the same time, you can make outgoing calls and answer incoming calls from it. All this allows you to make a compact three-button control unit. Incoming calls, charge status and other important events will be informed by voice prompts.
In terms of autonomy, this model is noticeably weaker than the previous one – six hours of continuous operation from a full charge. A full charge from scratch takes 1.5 hours. Fast charging in 10 minutes adds two hours of battery life.
The package includes the headphones themselves, a microUSB charging cable, a case and four ear adapters of various sizes – XS, S, M, L.
Advantages
- excellent transmission of high frequencies;
- fast charging;
- full bass with the correct selection of the size of the ear pads;
- instant connection with wearable devices.
disadvantages
- separate complaints about the lack of autonomy.
Sennheiser IE 4
Rating: 4.7
Rounding out the top three in the ranking of the best Sennheiser headphones is the simplest and reasonably inexpensive model in the selection. This is a very elementary dynamic-type accessory weighing only 5 grams, which does not have such functionality as the two models described above, but in terms of sound it keeps its brand.
These headphones, unlike the previous two, are connected to the source only by wired method – through a balanced cable with an L-shaped mini jack 3.5 mm at the end. The connector is gold-plated. The lack of wireless connection is a bit upsetting, but, fortunately, although the cable is quite long – 1.4 m, and durable – with Kevlar reinforcement.
The subtle technical characteristics of this model are as follows: the range of the reproduced sound – from 10 to 18 thousand Hz; sensitivity – 106 dB; harmonic distortion – 0.3%; impedance – 16 Ohm; sound pressure – 106 dB.
The headset is not designed for mounting. The package includes three pairs of interchangeable ear pads of different sizes.
Advantages
- sound quality;
- long service life, according to user reviews;
- long durable cable with Kevlar reinforcement;
- relatively affordable price.
disadvantages
- 'no' packaging – potential risk of damage in transit.
Best Sennheiser on-ear headphones
The second group of devices in the ranking of the best Sennheiser headphones according to the version is a kind of compromise between 'in-ear' and full-size – on-ear headphones. Here we will also look at three models that our experts considered worthy of attention for the most important characteristics.
Sennheiser Momentum On-Ear Wireless (M2 OEBT)
Rating: 4.9
The first model in this collection is a kind of 'big brother' of another model in the Momentum series from the previous group. Naturally, there is little in common between them, but some advantages are successfully implemented.
With the form factor of this model, everything is clear, the headphones weigh 210 grams, are attached by the headband and are available in three basic colors – beige, brown, black. The design is foldable, when folded, the headphones are placed in a hard compact case that comes with the package.
The developers have put significant emphasis on the quality and properties of materials to emphasize the premium class of the headset. So, for example, ear pads and a headband are trimmed with a pleasant to the touch artificial suede, and not just any, but the famous Italian Alcantara.
This model supports two methods of connecting to devices – wireless Bluetooth and through a detachable wire with a standard connector. There is also NFC support with the maximum possible range for this technology of 10 meters.
In terms of sound characteristics, this model boasts a high-quality and pronounced V-shaped sound (accented bass and treble). This frequency response best translates the rhythm of modern dynamic music. AptX codec is supported. Built-in active noise cancellation NoiseGuard. 'Feedback' is provided by as many as four microphones.
The functionality of the headset also includes the ability to control calls on a smartphone and playback – a compact control panel with buttons is located directly on the headphone case. So you can accept, end or put on hold a call, repeat the last number. There is a voice dialing function. Four standard profiles are supported: Headset, Hands free, AVRCP and A2DP.
In standby mode, the headphones have a full charge for 360 hours. Full charge time is 3 hours.
Advantages
- wireless and wired connection;
- functionality;
- quality materials;
- premium class;
- high-quality V-shaped sound.
disadvantages
- a noticeable percentage of complaints about not the most convenient control.
Sennheiser HD 25
Rating: 4.8
Now we present to you in our rating a real legend – 'the very 25th Sennheiser', which for almost 30 years have been recognized and deeply respected among professional DJs. To be precise, we are talking, of course, about their most recent version, and in its entire history this model has gone through six successful technological revisions.
It is easy to distinguish the newest revision – by the manufacturer's logos on the cups and the resistance indicators printed on the headband. Otherwise, the fresh version has undergone only minor improvements, and all the advantages have remained unchanged. We will go over them in more detail.
So, the HD 25 line is a closed-type on-ear dynamic headphones. They weigh 140 g and are attached with a headband. The cable is connected from one side. They are connected via a standard 3.5 mm mini jack, and in addition to it, there is also a 6.3 mm adapter in the kit. The cable is quite long – 1.5 m.
The headset reproduces sound in the range from 16 to 22 thousand Hertz. It is characterized by a sensitivity of 120 dB and an impedance of 70 ohms. The power reaches 200 mW. Harmonic coefficient – 0.3%. Contact pressure – 2.5N.
The striking distinctive features of this model are extremely high sound insulation at the level of in-ear headphones. This is achieved thanks to the special shape of the cups and the firm pressure. The latter does not affect the comfort during prolonged continuous wearing – the ear cushions are quite soft and ergonomic.
Another important point is that the headphones are practically 'indestructible'. The developers initially laid down an impressive resource, so that the headsets of the previous generations serve the owners for many years, and the fresh revision has retained this quality.
Advantages
- very light;
- excellent sound insulation;
- professional class claim;
- exceptionally high quality sound;
- universal comfortable fit 'on any head';
- unparalleled durability.
disadvantages
- no distinct disadvantages were noted.
Sennheiser HD 2.20S
Rating: 4.7
The selection of the rating of the on-ear headphones produced by the famous Sennheiser brand is completed by the compact, laconic, convenient and fairly inexpensive HD 2.20S model. The headset is made in a minimalistic design with a predominance of black in non-metallic design elements.
The headphones weigh 257 g – despite their compactness, they are heavier than the previous two, but within reason. They are attached by means of a headband, have a folding design and when folded take up a minimum of space. The cable is connected to one side, the length is 1.4 meters. The connector is a standard 3.5 mm mini-jack.
The 'sonic ability' parameters of this model are as follows. Sound reproduction in the range from 18 to 18 thousand Hertz; resistance – 26 ohms; nonlinear distortion index ('harmonics') – 0.5%; sensitivity – 112 dB / V.
The functionality of the headset also includes an omnidirectional microphone with a sensitivity of 44 dBV / Pa and the ability to perceive frequencies from 100 to 10 thousand Hertz. The control function is quite minimalistic: sound volume, switching tracks, answering / ending a call on a smartphone. There is a pause button that can pause a video on a wearable gadget.
Sennheiser provides an official 24-month warranty for this model.
Advantages
- thin, compact, folding;
- sound quality;
- hardy and durable;
- the most affordable price in the group.
disadvantages
- at a volume starting from an average, the sound penetrates outward abundantly (in audio chats, you can hear yourself).
Best Sennheiser full-size headphones
And finally, the third and most interesting selection in the ranking of the best Sennheiser headphones by version. These are full-size models that are clearly not suitable for outdoor wear, but they have such technical and other characteristics that overhead models cannot provide, and which, for sure, plug-in models have never dreamed of. These massive and most often multifunctional devices are used in serious work with sound in a professional studio, home mini-studio. They are also often used by avid video game players, especially professional esports players.
Sennheiser HD 800
Rating: 4.9
Let's start, as expected, with the most expensive and most impressive model – HD 800. And there really is something to be impressed with. This is the flagship of Sennheiser's professional headphones, able to compete even with full-fledged Hi-End bookshelf speakers.
Headphones are made in a massive case with an expressive modern design. Net weight excluding cable – 330 g. Attached by a headband. The construction uses the most modern composite materials, ear cushions are sheathed with a pleasant velvety microfiber. Contact pressure – 3.4N.
The key technical characteristics of the headphones in terms of sound are as follows. Sound spectrum of reproduction of frequencies – from 6 to 51 thousand Hz; resistance – 300 Ohm; sensitivity – 102 dB. harmonic coefficient (nonlinear distortion) – less than or equal to 0.02%; sound pressure – 105 dB (1 kHz, 1 W RMS). The detachable cable with oxygen-free copper core is 3 meters long and connects to the headphones on two sides. The connector at the end is a 6.3 mm 'jack', the kit includes an adapter for a 3.5 mm jack.
In the description of this model, we should move away from dry numbers and emphasize some points that position the HD800 on the market as a whole. Without the slightest exaggeration, this is one of the best headphones in this class, and the model has received such recognition since its inception in 2009. Huge funds and tens of thousands of hours of research work were invested in the creation of the model. In the process of their development, several local inventions and innovations were made and patented.
Finally, we will emphasize one more circumstance that speaks volumes about the quality of these headphones. The manufacturer is so sensitive and demanding about this line that it does not trust third-party companies for any of the assembly stages. The manufacture of each copy is carried out directly in Germany, the city of Wedemark – the headquarters of Sennheiser. Each copy undergoes a series of tests and tests on an individual basis before reaching the buyer. Moreover, all test results are archived and available on the official Sennheiser website, so that each buyer can track the results by serial number.
Advantages
- the highest premium class with special manufacturing privileges;
- exceptional quality control with the publication of results for each copy;
- assembly (including manual) directly at the Sennheiser headquarters;
- unprecedentedly accurate and rich sound reproduction;
- expressive futuristic design.
disadvantages
- no pronounced shortcomings were noted.
Sennheiser HD 650
Rating: 4.8
Now, after the impressions of the dazzling Sennheiser flagship, you can breathe a little, but the next model in our ranking will undoubtedly make you impress with renewed vigor. The HD 650 series, of course, lags far behind the brilliant HD 800, but this is not a drawback, since the model is aimed at a different audience with different goals, and with different financial capabilities.
The headphones are made in a rather laconic but pleasant modern design with a predominance of a silver theme in the color scheme. Net weight – 260 g. Attached by the headband. A detachable 3m cable connects on both sides, just like the HD 800. The ear cushions are covered in silk. The voice coil is made of aluminum wire. The construction uses materials such as neodymium magnets, kevlar, oxygen-free copper. The plug at the end of the wire is for a 6.3 mm jack connector; an adapter for a 3.5 mm standard is included. The connectors are gold plated. Contact pressure – 2.5N.
In terms of sound, this model demonstrates quite outstanding performance. Reproduction of sound in the range from 10 to 41 thousand Hz. Sensitivity – 103 dB, resistance – 300 Ohm. The power reaches 500 mW. Harmonic distortion – less than or equal to 0.05%.
One of the most common positive characteristics of these headphones from real users is their strikingly flat frequency response and realistic, 'uncolored' sound. Pairs of emitters are selected during manual assembly, while the tolerances are very tight – the variability should not exceed 1 dB in both directions. The magnetic system is selected with the same attention – with increased requirements for intermodulation and harmonic distortion. The cable is Kevlar-reinforced with reduced sensitivity to contact noise.
Advantages
- uncolored sound;
- value for money;
- extremely flat frequency response;
- expensive materials to assemble.
disadvantages
- point claims of a strictly highly specialized nature.
Sennheiser Momentum Over-Ear Wireless (M2 AEBT)
Rating: 4.7
And completing the selection of the rating of Sennheiser full-size headphones is the most affordable, but more than worthy of attention model. Looking ahead, this is the only model in the group with wireless connectivity.
Headphones are made in a classic design with a comfortable headband. Net weight – 258 g. Foldable design with detachable cable. Genuine hand-embossed leather used in the construction gives a pleasant tactile feeling of 'thing in hand'.
The semi-professional class of the device, closer to the amateur 'audiophile', allowed the manufacturer to realize some features that the two above models are not supposed to be in terms of status. We are talking about wireless communication Bluetooth 4.0, active noise cancellation system, support for NFC technology and a number of other points.
These headphones can already be fully used in conjunction with a wearable gadget, manage tracks and calls (accept, reject, hold, voice dialing, repeat the last), record surround sound from four built-in omnidirectional microphones. The headphones support four main functional profiles – A2DP, AVRCP, Hands free, Headset and the AptX codec.
The headphones can store technical profiles of eight external devices in the built-in memory and work in multi-connection mode with two devices simultaneously – for example, with a smartphone and a PC / laptop.
In standby mode, the headset operates up to 360 hours, a full charge takes no more than 3 hours.
Advantages
- wireless connection;
- smooth, high-quality, 'trademark' Sennheiser sound;
- active noise cancellation;
- relatively affordable price (in the context of this class of devices);
disadvantages
- Noise canceling is not disabled when connected wirelessly.
Attention! This rating is subjective and does not constitute an advertisement and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before buying, you need to consult with a specialist.