The full review
Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Headphone Review
Introduction
In this Sennheiser HD 650 Review, I hope to provide a balanced perspective of a product that is hailed as one of the top performers in the audio equipment industry. I have had my fair share of the audio device world, including products such as Audio-Technica ATH-M50 and M40x, Oppo PM-3, and Philips Fidelio M1MKII,
I must say the HD 650 stands out among its peers. For those considering the HD598 as an alternative, I can certify that the step to the 6xx series, particularly the HD 650, is a justifiable improvement - and a journey worth plunging into.
Performance and Price Value
Without an air of exaggeration, the Sennheiser HD 650s justifies its current Amazon price of $315.99, making them the best all-around headphones you can buy without emptying your wallet. In my humble opinion, they are the BMW 5-series of the headphone world. While there are bigger, faster, and more expensive options, these remain the gold standard. They perform incredibly well, and if paired with a dedicated amp, you'll appreciate the finesse and craftsmanship even more.
Audiophile Verdict - HD650 vs HD600
A comparison of these two products revealed that the HD650 Clings the crown for its all-around performance. The HD600 does exceedingly well with detailed sound on good recordings, but its performance varies with the quality of the recording. Conversely, HD650 delivers consistent performance across genres and preserves musicality regardless of the sound quality of the recording.
Amp Recommendations
Pairing the HD650 with an amp opens another world of 'audiophile' enjoyment. I particularly like the Aune B1 Class A Portable Phone/Headphone Amplifier. Alternatively, you could tackle the highest tiers of audiophile enjoyment and look into methods of scalability involving better amps or even rewiring your headphones. However, you'll be plunging into a greater depth of investment.
Do You Need an Amp with the HD 650s?
While it is not necessary, amplifying such exquisite headphones amplifies the experience. Without an amplifier, although still impressive, the headphones may struggle with more complex pieces such as classical and jazz, detailing that is effortlessly highlighted with proper amplification. Not using an amplifier is likened to buying a beautiful painting and not framing it, so why not eliminate all the nuances this device offers?
Sound Description
Sennheiser HD 650s offers a rich, natural, musical, effortless, and clean sound. It is harmonious and well-mannered, giving a smooth finish to audio rendering. It fits the description of a fine wine, broad-shouldered with the right balance across the sound spectrum. Vocals in music tracks especially stand out, making you feel like you are hearing your favorite songs for the first time, a breathtaking effect.
Room for Improvement
It's worth noting that despite all the overwhelming positives, the HD650 struggles a bit with volume handling without an amp. The headphone's performance slightly dips when presented with 'easy music' recordings, such as Pop and Rock, without being powered by an external amp. More complex music genres with a wide dynamic range, like Classical and Jazz, could use the additional boost from an amplifier to fully experience the capabilities of this headphone.
Comfort and Other Considerations
Comfort-wise, the Sennheiser HD 650 does a marvelous job. They are light, and their large oval cups accommodate even the largest ears. The clamping force is also just right, balancing fit and comfort. However, I must also point out that 300-ohm headphones require a pretty good amp, so that is something you will need to consider.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Great price-performance ratio
- Great overall sound quality
- Pairs well with external amps
- Pristine and powerful vocal rendering
- Consistent performance across a variety of genres
Cons
- Struggles with complex pieces without an amplifier
Final Words
A comparison with other headphones in the same price range puts the Sennheiser HD 650s at the top. SmIt pairs and musicality are key strengths of these headphones. If you desire an audiophile experience that digs into the soul of music while sacrificing a few sharp details, these are your best bet.
Conclusion
The Sennheiser HD650 is a game-changer headphone that genuinely deserves acclaim. It optimizes the audio hobby experience, offering value for every dollar spent. While it may not be your style, its refinement, artistry, and value make it a remarkable headphone of choice.