altogether, a different kind of review.. The Sennheiser HD800S OpenBack Dynamic Headphones..

[@antonstepanov488]

I’ve recently bought these from the aftermarket for 1000usd. I wasn’t planning to do that, but I just couldn’t let them go. With classical they sound like nothing else to me. And I don’t even listen to classical music 😅 Also listening to jazz at night or late evening is like sitting in a bar, listening to a live performance. And I wasn’t even that big of a jazz fan 😆

[@victorhermozaibarra7175]

Como seria comparandolo contra stax srx9000 en tema de rapidez, transparencia, escena sonora?

[@bcstyle1207]

What about the matching with Sennheiser HDVA 600 that you have reviewed.

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Hdvd800 hdvd820 Fantastic, if I’m talking below 2 1/2 thousand they’re my favourite

[@zhanurdos]

Sennheiser doing better 800s near time

[@techmed-rainer]

Thank you so much, Koji, for giving the HD 800S the honour they still deserve! I couldn't think of my headphone collection without them. And for classical music, they are still my absolute favourite. And I still like them to pair with the Sennheiser HDV 820 DAC/Amp very much.

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

It’s absolutely superb that paring I did not find that holographic imageing that the hdvD provides on anything else, unless it was the super chains. I reviewed in this video. And the huge stage it provides

[@Wattsmyname]

I was curious, have you ever had the occasion to try the OG HD800? Those cans got several silent revisions along the year, making them closer and closer sounding to their successor the HD800S. But the OG HD800, the one you could buy before the revisions, is actually superior in many aspects to the HD800S. By adding the resonator in the HD800S they did reduce the infamous peaks, probably making the timbre a bit better, but by doing so they they actually limited the full potential of the headphone. The OG HD800 with its unaltered tuning has even more soundstage, even more details and separation and bass while a bit quieter is way sharper and less muddy than on the HD800S. Unless you can't bear the infmous peaks, I would advise getting the OG800 instead of the 800S.

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

I would love to and put it on tubes, if I ever come across it, I definitely will The original HD7 was so close to HD 800 S and they did revisions and destroyed it

[@wertj3977]

I use the HD800s for audio engineering purposes. It is simply insane how well it images and captures the essence of instruments in the stereo field. It's tonality is a bit dry, lacking depth and realism, but that is what my speakers are for. This headphone allows me to place those tonally balanced instruments in places I've never imagined before. When casually listening, I run these balanced through my BTR7, which sounds warm, clean and very pleasing. However, when working, these go through my Apoggee Symphony, and they immediately become technical monsters. These headphones serve a purpose and are a tool that enhances workflow, rather than trying to replace or be like studio monitors.

[@Nephilim-81]

I’m definitely not done with these headphones. I’ve had mine (original) for 11 years. They scale incredibly well. The widest soundstage on the planet. World beaters. Still unique.

[@robertburghardt8070]

I love my HD800s on the EF400 as a DAC and the Lyr3+ with a Sylvania jan chs 6sn7gt VT-231 tube. Absolutely incredible and when I put a EQed Bass shelf on it, they are perfect for every genre❤️❤️❤️❤️ Sooo thank you Koji again to say what I thought in a better and more eleborate way, love your reviews very much. Hope to see your opinion for years. 😻

[@Wattsmyname]

I really enjoy watching your reviews in general! Please keep up the good work :) Coming from the HD600, I can say the HD800S is a really nice upgrade. Obviously the soundstage is wayyyy bigger, the HD600's being quite intimate. Resolution and detail are absolutely on another level with the HD800S too. Funnily enough the midrange is where those two headphones seem to be the most similar, soundstage excepted. Paired with an Element III from JDS they work really well in my opinion. Something I have noticed with these headphones is that I have to tendency to listen to music a bit louder than with other headphones, I wonder if this is linked to the soundstage but that's how the HD800S actually delivers its best

[@newsigmundfreud3023]

*Good review done in a very smart way. The HD800S gives so much for every dollar spent on it compared to today’s crazy priced up headphones like Utopia, Susvara etc. etc.*

[@Soras_]

HD800 is still the primary headphone of my system with Holo audio Spring2. I tried many Dac untill Spring2, and stopped buying dacs. HD800 is very picky about dacs.

[@moonphaser3304]

Everyone needs a pair of these in their collection. They are so unique, I keeping coming back to mine

[@aceofspades6667]

I love my hd800s .. was listening to is last night via my quicksilver tube hp amp and questyle cma800r gold. It’s a fantastic set specially for the price I got mine for.

[@carminedesanto6746]

Yup…my Sen’s 650’s on tubes …yup there’s more life in these old dogs .

[@Jamie-666]

This headphone can seriously slam in the bass on some tracks. Japanese Kodo drumming springs to mind.

[@ianmcsherry5254]

That's quite an endorsement. I've only had the pleasure of witnessing Kodo once, and experienced their big O-Daiko drum up fairly close in an entirely acoustic setting. The only other time I have had my internal organs affected by sound like that would be at something like a good rock or funk gig, with a quality sound engineer. Someone like Adrian Sherwood, who works the desk for Tackhead.

[@Jamie-666]

@@ianmcsherry5254 Yes, drums sound great on these Senns! I would love to see Kodo live.

May I ask why use one cable over the other? Provided your setup allows both, which one to use and why?

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

On the face of it, this question is very straightforward, but when I looked at it a little bit more carefully, I think I want a little more clarification. I don’t quite understand what you mean, are you talking about if there is any difference in sound, quality or build, quality or Situation like single ended versus balanced

@@ConvinceMeAudio hello again and thanks for your answer. Short answer is yes! I’m a rather beginner in this world, I’ve watched tons of HD800S before purchasing and I’ve gone ahead and got them alongside the TA-22, but I’m now trying to get the most out of the headphones so videos like yours are just amazing. The question about the cable is pretty much that; whether one cable offers more or less quality than the other and thus, whether or not it’s recommended. I understand many settings just don’t have all inputs, but in a scenario where someone has access to both; would one option be preferred to get most sound quality? Big thanks!

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

@ OK, here is my advice if you’re comfortable with the quality of the cable ergonomically for now stick with it you do not need to spend money on extra cables because the returns is so small, it’s better where you are currently in the hobby to spend that money on the DAC and amplification To get a better quality cable economically and sonically than the stock you’re going to have to spend significant amounts of money where custom cables are concerned and that money is better to go towards the amplifier and then the DAC. Don’t worry about cables for now not until you are far far later into the hob. Your amplification and DAC will bake far more of a difference than a cable. The cable is the last 0.5 to 1 percent, if that

@@ConvinceMeAudio got it! However, as you know the HD800S come with two cables. Are both the same in terms of quality or does one connection offer better quality than the other? I mean the 6.3mm and the 4.4mm that come in the original box. Big thanks again!

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

@ balanced 4 pin XLR with the right amplifier connects to the output that is balanced, and is twice the power But this is down to the topology of the amplifier, not the cable. No, they’re the same. The amplifier is what makes the difference and these days most amplifiers do a better job balance than single ended. So technically through the amplifier yes, and then again no something like chord. Dave is completely single ended they don’t do balanced Cables are the same

[@TheRacingSlick]

What a nice throwback, you make me contemplate getting a pair! Thanks for another great video!

[@Return777]

I've been hesitant to dig the HD800s mostly because of my chain a singxer sa-1 and a soncoz sgd1. I own a 28 years old HD580 black silk and an edition xs. Would you grab it in my case ? I saw some deals around 800euros which is a bargain

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Genuinely, it will sound nice on that set up, this was just an experiment we ran for the review, it sounds pretty decent on tubes and on a nice set up like the one you have I like that amplifier

[@gdemirjian]

Great review on scalability of the 800s. I went with the 8xx open box for $749 and love it on my SMSL-9 stack and my SMSL-SU9/xDuoo TA-29 hybrid tube rig. Cheers!

[@udopiarecords]

Your accent and enunciation can really describe details with such juicy vigour, nice!

[@udopiarecords]

One more thing im curious: I see everyone talking about tube amps and EQing your headphones, but IS IT POSSIBLE to simply plug these in via 3.5mm to your iPhone and just listen to music while walking around campus, work, etc? Cause I would like this as well, I know they require a power source apparently... 🤔

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

iPhone, definitely not, you might be able to buy a nice empty AC for portable use mojo2 or something more powerful like this

[@anatol1204]

The big problem with these is that they are very hard to be driven

[@BilllieJean-e9y]

Hi, which dac for 800S you recommend in the price about 2.5-3k usd ?

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Holo spring 3

[@sebanambrus9265]

Very good and unique review of the HD800S. I have them with hdv820 , you think adding a good tube amp would be better than Sennheiser's own amp/dac for it ? Thank you .

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

I owned both HDVD, a high-end tube amplifier will take it too far greater heights

[@vladpetric7493]

Minor thing - plastics are polymers by definition :). Hardly a big deal of course.

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

😂🥃 never second-guess yourself, LOL initial thought was correct Meaning me obviously

[@lacellistaartista2643]

I have had my HD800S since 06/2023 and these cans sound superb with my high-end audio system. My system comprised of the following: PrimaLuna EVO 100 Tube DAC with upgraded NOS tubes, Lamm LL2 Deluxe preamp (highly Modified w/Duelund VSF Components and more + upgraded NOS tubes), Primaluna EVO 300 Int with KT150 tubes + NOS 1960's 12AU7 tubes. I am also using a free software "Peter's Equalizer APO Config. Extension (APO) with the preset set on classic. This settings really helped boosting the bottom end and lowering the brightness of the top end just a tad. ConvinceMeAudio is so right on about the HD800S. Great Review!

[@teebs90]

Love the format of your reviews. Glad to have stumbled upon your channel and very much looking forward to going through your other videos. Keep it up!

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Thank you very much for the kind words, it’s very much appreciated Welcome to the fam 🐅

[@apollomemories7399]

Excellent.

[@ixoye56]

I would love to own these headphones, but my RME ADI-2 FS DAC/AMP is apparently not good enough for them, I've heard.

[@Black-squirrel-obsessions]

Nah that's rubbish, I have used an RME with the HD800s and it's great, the EQ makes them sing

[@ixoye56]

@@Black-squirrel-obsessions Yes, you are right, I finally bought them and they sound great with RME

[@BillyKueekSG]

Thanks for the review, another great one! Although I’d heard that this is a soundstage king from reviews, was tempted but never in my to-buy list. In November 2022, I had just bought the ZMF Atrium and the Gustard R26 was already on delivery to me. Then, I was browsing our local online store, I saw the HD800S originally sold for USD$1,800-2,000 was selling at USD$1,000+. There was only 1 set left so I got it and I’m loving it. Delivery came fast so I run both the R26 and the HD800S to burn in together. The price went back to USD$2,000 ever since. Planning to order ZMF’s ear pads for HD800S or a Dekoni pads to try next but not getting cable cos I’m alright with them.

[@Peace_Guard]

Enjoying more the Atrium or 800S?

[@BillyKueekSG]

@@Peace_Guard they both play to their own strengths and provided pleasure for different genre. To me, the Atrium is a better overall performance with most areas done very well. The HD800 is very comfortable to wear, feels lighter (I have screws and metal plates at my cervical spine ie. behind my neck areas) so it’s importaont that the headphone is well designed so I don’t feel it’s heavy. HD800S is very good for orchestra, instruments and “live” performances. I will keep both these headphones though.

[@mattprothero-thomas9768]

Saw your review on the HDVD800 amp/dac which I thought was right on the money. Funnily enough the amp I picked up mint 18 months ago for £700, second hand are now north of £900 so folk are catching on! On to the HD800S cannot pair better for the price point than with the HDV820 - they were literally made in heaven, maybe those Sunny sound engineers do know what they are doing… and can save you many dollars on the 2nd hand market.Personally hated the supplied cables, and went aftermarket with beautiful hand crafted RiCable balanced Invictus xlr- an Italian company with an excellent price-quality offering. Found my personal nirvana. In my view based on headphone pricing today the 800S is a steal even at retail.

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Fantastic amplifier, I agree, if I can find one like my original mint condition, I’m definitely picking one up again loved it So regret selling

[@mattprothero-thomas9768]

Forgot to say another impressive show, liked the slant of the presentation, and was drooling over those beautiful tube amps!! Now what did I do with that spare 10K burning a hole in my pocket….

[@jadur]

Love my 800. Tried 800s in store not side by side with 800. Seems pretty the same. Austrian audio x55 also very good in terms of details and comfort but not the same Ligue. The price of 800/800s is too much. Buy used and you’ll be happy.

[@TTBoy1]

She's a four finger lady and loose reminds me of my Ex 🤣😂

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Bahahaha 🤣

[@Skeith89]

Please test it with dCS Rossini Apex and Zahl HM1.

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

HM1 will be landing shortly, but I think the next super flagship DAC in line is rockna 😍

[@andrespoblete6783]

Very interesting. I have a cuestion, why you put a preamp in the chain?? It s not enough with the combo streaming or digital source to a dac and then to a amp ? Thanks for the videos !

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Serene is a far more capable prix than any volume port inside the majority of amplifiers It gives a better sound quality if the amplifier allows to be implemented in a power amp mode Andy C AYIN likes to be driven hard ware Elrogs were concerned for better sound quality

[@andrespoblete6783]

@@ConvinceMeAudio ok i understand. But this extra chain (preamp) is the last link in terms of sound improvements? Because with the holo may + cayin or holo bliss it s a super combo flagship or not ? Really thank you for the content , i almost watch all your videos !

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

@@andrespoblete6783 it’s not really necessary definitely with bliss but most of the time it helps the reason why I implement it is because it already here. I don’t really recommend if you have a bliss to specifically go and buy it Because the pre-is pretty great in that unit

[@pennfootball71]

They are the Andromeda version of headphones

[@arielext]

Bigger drivers are found in the Sony Z1R/Z7/Z7m2

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Those Sony, I completely forgot about those is the transducer bigger? I didn’t believe it was.

[@arielext]

@@ConvinceMeAudio 7cm vs 5.6cm

[@TerrifyiN_]

Im entering the audiophile scene and I got a myself a pair. I am paring them with JDS atom dac and amp, im assuming it should be a decent setup for beginners right?

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

It’s a good starting point mate, but before jumping and spending money, I would recommend trying them out on tubes next And don’t be in a rush to spend too much money mate, spend time with them find out what they can do, it’s a nice long marathon, this was just an experiment because there are so many reviews of the freaking thing

[@TerrifyiN_]

Thanks for the reply! Can you recommend tubes that are worth it that but don’t break the bank? Thanks in advance!

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

@@TerrifyiN_ maybe a dark voice is a good place to start or bottle head crack with the speedball or feliks ekko

[@TerrifyiN_]

@@ConvinceMeAudio thanks, looking forward to seeing more reviews from your channel!

[@martinklockl5090]

Please review the new ZMF Caldera.

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Already purchased waiting on delivery mate, plus the vo

[@gabrielmoreno5775]

Love your videos and style have these headphones started out with a schiit audio stack and I’m now looking to chord hugo tt2. Also have you tried the chord qutest or anni haven’t seen many reviews on them. Thanks for the videos

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

Thank you so much it’s very much appreciated Yes I have, I actually owned it, and I will ask chord for it to be sent for an actual video. I have the Hue go to here right now for review plus the Mojo2 on the channel obviously, and as you know, I’ve already reviewed the TT2 and Dave The DAC inside the cutest, is the same DAC in the Hue,go to, and the Mojo2 is a better DAC than those two 😀

[@danielzweipunktnull2670]

Dose the 800s make scence with Mojo 2? I gues it will needs an amp anyway, right?

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

@@danielzweipunktnull2670 sounds quite nice honest, obviously it’s scaled up, but you get a decent experience not too bad but I will test for you again Can drop a message on here in the next couple of days I’m shooting tomorrow

[@gabrielmoreno5775]

Should have mention I also have the mojo2 and I agree sounds amazing with the hd800s I just ordered the mm-500 from audeze thank you for the response I seen a small time KZbinr say he uses the mojo2 with the anni amplifier and says it takes it to another level I wonder if it’s amp is better then the one in the hugo tt2. Looking forward to your content down the round also you do a great job in the paint the picture part of your review nice touch to the videos on top of an already great review process

[@muhamadsyazwan5170]

How is hd800s with mojo 2? Does Mojo 2 eq makes hd800s more versatile to edm and slow rock?

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

A very good question and I was actually literally testing that as of 20 minutes ago. I found you really do need to use the DSP correction to nudge the frequency response for a more universal listen, for me, personally, dropping the 3khz region by one or 2 dB boosting subbase by two

[@muhamadsyazwan5170]

@@ConvinceMeAudio Awesome! And it still maintains the imaging of the HD800 right? I have Mojo 2 and have been thinking about buying hd800s. I don't really want to spend money on amps for Hd800s. Too big of a rabbit hole.

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

@@muhamadsyazwan5170 only as far as how good Imogen is on Mojo, yes, but you’re only getting I would say 25% of the performance of the drivers LOL so you’ll end up having to go down the rabbit hole unfortunately

[@muhamadsyazwan5170]

@@ConvinceMeAudio oh my god.. bankruptcy here I come 🤣. Thanks btw appreciate it.

[@ConvinceMeAudio]

@@muhamadsyazwan5170 I recommend tubes over solid state for this headphone, it’s heaven There is a reason why this bloody thing is still around in 2023 and it’s relevant Honestly, can you believe it came out nine years ago LOL

[@mat.b.]

I have the original HD800 and what they say is true, it has no bass...but EQs exist. I've had them for many years now and just can't see myself giving them up - they blew everything away and have only gotten better over the years as my equipment has scaled up. On high powered vintage equipment - eq corrected and with aftermarket leather pads for a proper seal - they go so deep and slam better than live concerts, and have the soundstage to match. That's all I need in life.

[@pennfootball71]

They are bad with electronic and bass tracks