Quest for the Best Competitive Audio Part 5 - Sennheiser HD800s - Are $1,500 Headphones Overpowered?

[@ImurTuta]

Love this series. I really hope these videos blow up for you...I feel like they should cuz there are zero competitive gamers reviewing audiophile headphones and lots of audiophile headphone reviewers giving their 2 cents to the gaming community they are not really a part of.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@JonLaRue]

Here, here! I agree with Asa!

[@thevalorantguy8615]

@@FreshReviewsYT do I need a dac with the 560s? For Valorant. Or is stock fine

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@thevalorantguy8615 Stock might work out fine, but it depends on your motherboard's power. The 560s aren't TOO TOO power hungry, but they do benefit from a nice sound card / amp/dac

[@BrotherO4]

@@thevalorantguy8615 buy a apple dongle audio adapter type C. Yes you need a usb C adapter than get one too. It’s what I and many uses. It cleaner and better than any MB you gonna have. And yes the apple dongle is not a meme

[@millionaaar23]

Whether you continue this audio journey or not (I’m sure most of us hope you do. Myself included), it would be cool to see a tier list of them all. Keep up the great vids!!!

[@Zeptic1]

Love these videos man, you have no idea how helpful these are especially when most audio enthusiasts don't really know much about competitive gaming and thus don't really understand what good audio for esports is. Will be ordering the Harmonicdyne Zeus as per your recommendation ^^

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!!

[@Karim-ik5ij]

Hey man, what do you think about the zeus? Im thinking of getting it too!

[@Zeptic1]

@@Karim-ik5ij Ended up just sticking to my HD 650 cus even tho the soundstage isn’t that great it’s imaging is super accurate so I’m content lol

[@g32211]

he did it , we knew it was coming one day and gameplay looking clean today

[@FreshReviewsYT]

=D

[@VitiateTheImmortal]

I own a pair of Hd800s and hifiman HE1000 Stealths in the multiple thousand range. Really love the 800s. They made it to be my favorite headphones! For music and gaming 😊❤

[@Vanxiety12]

I’m having such a hard time deciding between 800s and Arya Organics… I game a lot and listen to all types of music. And movies of course.

[@endlessdrive8421]

The HD800/HD800S are kind of like the Lamborghini Countach of headphones. Many people see it as a glorious legend of a dream product when in reality they're not quite what you fantasized they would be lol. They're certainly not bad, but you have to learn to respect them for what they truly are. As someone who has a few "end game" headphones, take it from my first hand - more money does not mean "better" - you'll be happier with a less expensive headphone with your preferred sound signature over a more expensive headphone that has a sound signature you don't like. Simple as that.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Good way to think of it

[@ruud1025]

You just saved me 1400 bucks. Thanks man! Great video's. I hope your channel will take off with these great reviews!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!!!

[@paullusty]

Love these no bs easy to understand reviews. I'm looking forward to future episodes!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

ty!!

[@ta114]

i bought the 560s at launch 3 years later they are still a staple in my gaming experience and saved my ass countless times on DayZ. If they ever break down another pair will be on its way within 0.1 seconds hands down.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Love to hear it

[@millenwagon]

So happy you made this video. I think the hd 560s are more than adequate for 99.99% of people. I recently got some Pxc 550 ii and though I’d just give them a whirl with gaming and actually I’m super impressed by them. They image extremely well and their soundstage width and depth is surprisingly good.

[@jw3384]

I been waiting for this video 🔥🔥

[@FreshReviewsYT]

ty!

[@jw3384]

@@FreshReviewsYT so are the zues still your favorite for gaming or do you find yourself using the 560s again?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@jw3384 when I want to be as competitive as possible, the 560s atm. But generally I have the Zeus on the most id say. I’m testing a few new cans now as well.

[@jw3384]

@@FreshReviewsYT cant wait to see i might have to cop the 560s for now

[@kamsole]

1,500 headphones you’re wild for this fresh!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

hahaha!

[@dario4496]

your reviews are exactly what I have been looking for, its tragic that i havent seen your videos earlier

[@TheJgre98]

Its nice to see someone who games competitively review audiophile grade headphones. Cant tell you how many audiophile channels ive heard say that the pc38x are the best gaming headphones over things like the Hd560s, dt1990’s, and Hd800s

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@the12gaugeshotty]

Thank you for your efforts! This helped seal my decision to buy the HD560S!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Glad I could help!

[@ajayqlin]

I wasn't expecting this video so soon but here it is and great review as always that price just hurts to look at the end of the day.

[@bespoke555]

You did it you got the end game headphone I literally don’t think it could get better than this! That being said idk if this review series is over because it is a superb series but I’m still hoping you review the Audeze Mobius/Penrose and maybe even the $900 Audeze GX

[@notblazedfordays9536]

Penrose x were pretty good for Xbox series x seeing as how I couldn’t use a DAC/amp and use the mic. Probably a different story on PC but I’m new to PC. 900$ is too rich for my blood

[@jeffphilp7430]

The HD800's value proposition is definitely a hard one to square, especially when such vastly cheaper options can deliver almost the same performance. But like all performance related products, attempting to reach the absolute pinnacle of performance always costs more, usually a lot more. So you are either prepared to spend what it costs to get the best (a very subjective statement especially with headphones) or you are prepared to compromise and spend less , probably a lot less and realistically for possibly only slightly less. If you can do that, then great, easy sensible decision. But if you are fed up buying different headsets in the search for endgame level gaming performance, then the HD 800s make a lot of sense. After deciding that I could in no way justify the expense or even afford them, I bought them anyway and I've been using them for about six months, mainly FPS games but it wasn't until very recently, when I went back to compare my previous headsets, that I was able to truly appreciate just how good they are. The best way I can explain my experience is, it's like turning on the lights in a poorly lit room and then seeing, with full clarity, the fine details that surrounded me, or more simply comparing 1440p to 4K. Now is that worth the substantial financial outlay? Only you can decide. Am I a better gamer because I use HD800's? LOL Probably not. Do I enjoy the overall gaming experience more while using the HD800's? Absolutely. Would I buy them again if I ever needed too? Hell yes!

[@WonderingKev]

Thanks for this video, I was waiting for when you get to these for competitive gaming.

[@thevalorantguy8615]

You deserve so many more subs dude. Keep up the great work. These videos are honestly the best.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@Christe88]

I got the 560’s because of your recommendation. These things are amazing! Thank you.

[@ArianTashakkor]

Absolutely love your review. As a competitive player and sort of an audiophile I've been constantly searching for the best headphones for competitive gaming as well over last two months. I've used the 560S, Beyerdynamic DT990, Tygr 300R, AKG K12 pros and still have only two more that I wanna test. Other than those and the Zeus I genuinely don't believe there is anything better out there below the level of 800S and its price range. I'll keep you updated as well on those two headphones as we both have been testing pretty much the same headphones except that I can't buy the Zeus in EU easily due to taxes. But again you already have your experience with them. For competitive gaming there are only a few more headphones worth a try which I'm going to test soon and I'll keep you updated on those. Dropped you a follow on twitter. Keep up the great work! ❤️

[@FreshReviewsYT]

ty!!

[@snowwfps]

What would you say are good headphones options for someone who is looking to be a professional player but also wants a good music listening experience

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@snowwfps the DT1990 is pretty up there

[@7sukuyomi]

Hey! You own many of the headphones I'm interested in. I'm currently choosing between the 560s, hd58x, and Tygr 300r. These are for gaming and music. Reasons why I may not like the 560s: Build quality, Analytical type headphones make poorly recorded songs sound even worse Reasons why I may not like the hd58x: Small and intimate soundstage people have described. Reasons why I may not like the Tygr 300r: Actually, none. I'm leaning towards these more. Best build quality and I want the money I'm spending on to last. I'm having a hard time choosing between these and any extra info would help.

[@ArianTashakkor]

@@7sukuyomi I haven't personally tested the HD58X, therefore can't say much about that but the 560S and Tygr 300 I can. You can't really go wrong with either the 560s or the 300R. It depends on what you are focusing on. If you want a "fun" sounding headphone with a bit more Bass and amazing imaging but also fairly decent for competitive gaming the TYGR 300s are the way to go. If you want the analytical type of listening experience and amazing clarity and directional audio then the 560s. They are both amazing pair of headphones but for your type of usage, since you want the jack of all trades, sth that does everything fairly well I'd recommend the 300R. Absolutely phenomenal for the price.

[@Frencho9]

Sober review, the HD800S might be the holy grail for FPS shooters, but they ain't wort the asking price compared to my 157€/186$ Beyer TYGR 300R (taxes+shipping included!) or a 200$ HD560S. They are not 10 times better. IMHO past the 200-300$ tier there are steep diminishing returns for gaming audio.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Whole heartedly agree

[@Frencho9]

@@FreshReviewsYT Also at 300 ohm for the HD800S you NEED an amp, an JDS Atom or Magni 3+/Heresy or a DAC/AMP like the Schitt Hell/Mayflower Arc. that's 110$ to 300$ in extra equipement. Tygr 300R is just 32 ohm any mobo can give it enough juice.

[@Frencho9]

@Nouvraught Heard about that issue. Never had the privilege to try the HD800S, but I am sensitive to bright headphones and treble peaks. Hence why I can't stand most Beyerdynamic headphones, tried the popular DT1990 Pro, but said hell no, and picked the TYGR300R which is the only Beyer without murderous treble. The HD560S I have tried and it's brightness is not murderous but over long sessions It would tire me out. I'm 30 want to protect my hearing since I had an office burglar alarm go off 2 years ago that left me with slight tinnitus in my left ear. So warmer signatures now, I'm not a pro gamer not earning money so the extra advantage of bright analytical headphones and tryhardness is not worth my health.

[@Frencho9]

@Nouvraught Not just bass boosting, the TYGR 300R pads have that round circle stiff foam layer that dampens the treble peaks, none of the other beyers I tried had that. Just a very thin cloth/veil. I would say the closed-back MMX300 Gen2 are 32 ohms DT880 with bass boosting pads, as they kept the murderous treble, albeit less peaky compared to DT880 250ohm silver pads or DT1990 Pro I had the privilege to try thanks to a friend.

[@markus301]

@Nouvraught i own a hd800s with the dac/amp fiio k3 that gives a bit of bass and i don't feel more the lack of bass.

[@daviddiina2066]

“If you have a pair of HD560s, you can sleep well at night knowing that you have a superb direction audio experience…..” That is the nicest thing anyone has ever said to me. I do have a pair of 560s and I will now sleep much better. Thank you!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Hahaha. Glad to hear it!

[@daviddiina2066]

@@FreshReviewsYT now I’ve gone and done it. I made the mistake of watching your Part 6 quest for the best video. Do I need the DT 900 pro X’s? I’m still within my window for Amazon returns on the HD 560s and the extra cash isn’t a concern. For reference - I have a 3080 gaming rig and PS5, I use both equally. I do NOT play competitive FPS. Mostly rpg, mmo’s, Destiny/Division, Elden ring - so immersion is important. I went from the Pc38x to the 560s and my ears definitely appreciate the upgrade. There goes my restful sleep tonight!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@daviddiina2066 hahaha. If you play a lot on the ps5, the 900 pro x is easier to drive and performs better on the ps5.

[@daviddiina2066]

@@FreshReviewsYT thank you for the response. Surprisingly - the 560S are loud enough through the dual sense controller. I’m also not against getting something like a creative g6 if needed.

[@Joseph__K]

Hey man! Thanks again for this wonderful review and for the advice not to spend more for less. Haha. love this series bro. hope you tackle more planars or focal with excellent technicalities. More power and godbless!

[@rickgear2579]

I have the PC38X and so far I've been pleased.

[@jonathantran5821]

Love this series!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

ty!

[@BishieBishie]

Always happy when my boys the Tygrs get a mention

[@rainxx3207]

Takstar Pro 82 / Cooler Master MH751/752 when? 👀👀

[@George-wy2yb]

This is a positive comment for the KZbin algorithm ❤️

[@Thezftw]

Great review. I really wanted to shell out cash for these but man is it hard to justify $1700 so I just went with the 560s and dac/hp amp since I already have a pair of Genelec G3's for casual listening and they're pretty great. For the price of these you can get a whole slew of great headphones with different characteristics and a dac/amp combo.

[@bobjoe9122]

Nice finally done with that vid

[@vanluongc1116]

Amazing series as always! you are the best! Thank you!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@DanKurtt]

Sennheiser HD599 are what I go for, they're so often discounted to under 100$ and they bring such a great soundstage (My go to since years, still using the HD598 SE). If you need some IEM's because you have to deal with background noise and still want good sound the Moondrop Aria are just hard to beat at the price point they sit (about 79€). Edit: So the HD560S are the upgraded version of the HD598/599, didn't know that so if you get them on a sale, grab em.

[@aledsionwright]

No idea how I didn't find your channel earlier. I primarily only play Apex and been on the same audio quest. I've been on a similar journey too - HD58X, HD6XX, 990 Pro, 1990 Pro & PC38X. I eventually settled on the 1990 Pro for about a year as I just really enjoyed the sound and I was happy with the imaging and soundstage. I have recently pulled the trigger on these headphones and I have no regrets, it's just far superior to all other headphones I've used when it comes to competitive gaming... I think it's now time for me to sell on all these other headphones and recoup some of my money!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Glad to have you with us! I have a few 800s competitors coming soon

[@aledsionwright]

@@FreshReviewsYT don’t say that, I’ve just spent a fortune 😂

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@aledsionwright hahaha. You haven’t gone wrong!

[@joemomma707]

What is the best amp to pair up with the 800s?

[@joemomma707]

I’m sensitive to head pressure. How are the 800s for comfort? I’m sensitive most to top pressure. Which is why I play with earbuds but I need to get the best headphones for Csgo

[@freeq333]

Cool! Now only if I managed to do a review of the Austrian Audio hi-x65 or x55. Then I'm already in heaven: D. Thanks again for the reviews!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I have one coming!!! Review soon!

[@VeeHausen]

Excellent opinions brother, the law of diminishing returns is very present here in the Audiophile community and a daring challenge to take up! Money and common sense don't often go hand in hand but I feel you portrayed the logic in this video quite coherently to the Lameman! Are you coming back up from this rabbit hole or are you going deeper?! ;)

[@FreshReviewsYT]

hahah I might have to swing by from the rabbit hole. I think I will be checking out some IEMs next and then looking at some more 150-350 range cans

[@zahitemremetin606]

@@FreshReviewsYT You can use Crinacle's IEM ranking list for a reference point for overall sound quality. He's a well respected reviewer in the community and I personally quite like his approach to IEMs and headphones.

[@lokye5037]

Hey man, thanks for all the info. I got the 560s and the fiio amp/dac arrived today. My mind is blown. The imaging is soo damn f**king good. Pardon my French.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Love to hear it!!!!

[@Phatbeater]

I was waiting for you to make this jump lol. It's an incredible headphone for detail retrieval in songs (it's also known as the sound stage king of headphones) however, in fast paced games I agree you most likely won't care about that as much just as long as you can accurately hear where enemies are. I think you should check out the sennheiser pc37x and pc38x as well. They are much cheaper and from what I've heard they are more up your alley. The most expensive out of the 2 is only around $180. You should also look at the Philips shp9500 and 9600 which are good budget options as well. Nice review and good to hear a take from somehow who actually knows what to look for in competitive play! Edit: I also wanted to add that the hd800s is notoriously hard to find a good amp pairing. Some can make it sound too analytical and even harsh. Many prefer to use a tube amp to mellow out the highs and make it less clinical sounding, however I doubt that helps out too much with gaming lol.

[@zahitemremetin606]

He already covered PC38X

[@Phatbeater]

@@zahitemremetin606 I must have missed it, I'll check it out! Thanks! Edit: I just checked back through his vids and I didn't see it, the only one I see is the 560s. Maybe deleted?

[@zahitemremetin606]

@@Phatbeater kzbin.info/www/bejne/gZy8p41jmtGCldE

[@Phatbeater]

@@zahitemremetin606 Thanks man!

[@hawaiian-cerveza]

I want the hd8xx. I love a vast soundstage. I got spoiled by the AKG Q701s soundstage and imaging. I could hear so much without the bass getting in the way.

[@zahitemremetin606]

Watch Crinacle's review on HD8XX

[@hawaiian-cerveza]

@@zahitemremetin606 I've already read about it on superbest audio friends. One of the guys on that forum is pretty well known in the highend audio community.

[@Guinibee1]

Thanks for taking the plunge and informing us all Fresh! I love my audio, but diminishing returns hits big with the 800s. I'll definitely hold off.

[@zahitemremetin606]

What do you use for your audio setup?

[@Guinibee1]

@@zahitemremetin606 Currently a JDS Element 2, but just got a Schiit Modius and Asgard 3 on the way. For headphones I have sennheiser hd6xx, beyerdynamic dt1990, Harmonicdyne Zeus, and Hifiman Sundara.... Yes I'm broke

[@zahitemremetin606]

@@Guinibee1 lying down on pavement and watching stars while listening to music through my brand new Sennheiser HE1 right now, totally worth it.

[@levinlei8881]

@@zahitemremetin606 i'm assuming you're joking

[@RitzyBusiness]

The best spatial audio I've ever gotten from a pair of headphones in all price ranges was the AKG K702/701, not the Q model or K7XX, those models messed with the sound tuning heavily. In bad company 2 with the k702 and spatial audio my cone of accuracy was around 2%, I could pinpoint exactly where everyone was without seeing them. At the time I also had similarly priced dt770 pro, and my cone of accuracy was like 25%, it was hard to pinpoint exact locations which made it difficult to pop up and shoot.

[@dpoverlord]

I'm using the AKG did you stuck or upgrade? Curious what other headphones would sound like

[@cyberpunk2042]

Great work with all these videos, keep it up!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@MisterRhul]

I have HD 560S and ATH-R70x. You have to try the ATH's. They are very good. Actually, very very good. I left the HD 560s to my wife after trying the Audio Technica's.

[@Android-nv7gu]

Incredible series! Really enjoyed your take on everything. If you would , please consider doing a closed back series. You’ve got a subscriber here for sure.

[@bla_ank]

THE MOTHER OF DIRECTIONAL HEADPHONES - big review edit: have you considered applying an EQ to the Zeus? Resolve, from the Headphone Show, says they EQ very well. You could create a gaming profile to remove the mid-bass bloat that makes explosions drown out sound cues

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I need to give that a try!

[@robertkirkpatrick1826]

I agree 1000%. I love my Zeus's. But have benn looking to upgrade. But NOT sure the leap is worth it. So I bought a Fiio R7 aNd a set of moondrop variations (mainly mmo and rpg player) and called it a day lol. Thanks for the review. I use my Zeus and creative Labs G6 when a game needs tweaking and the R7 when it doesn't.

[@yangg]

I've had the 560s since April and I love them. I watched all your audio quest videos but I'm surprised you haven't tried the hd660s! Looking forward to them in further reviews. Also could you try playing some pubg games during testing? I think pubg is a great test of soundstage and imaging. But anyways loving these reviews!

[@mariannygonzalez511]

Have you found any info on the hd660s .. Iam wondering if these are a step up from the 560s

[@lokye5037]

In terms of strictly imaging, 560s is better than all 600 series. But the 600 series all have bigger soundstage and more pleasing sound.

[@John9tv]

Was wondering if you have an update in regards to your headphones? The headphone show recently made a video about the tygr 300r comparing them to the dt 900 pro x saying that he thought the tygr 300r was even more detailed than the dt 900 pro x. Playing Valorant and remember you mentioning tygr 300r making more sense than the hd560s for a game like Valorant with tighter maps and areas compared to open spaces like apex. The majority seem to agree with you on dt 900 pro x being better than tygr 300r but I believe the tygrs have better comfort and also obviously cheaper so just wondering

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I go with the 900s currently

[@slistie]

As always Fresh you are on point!, I have the HD800s myself I love them and if you want the absolute best for competitive gaming I don't think there is anything else that beats it, but as you say a 560s and that category is perfectly fine for competitive games if you don't have the budget to go crazy.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

ty!

[@derekd4349]

With the 560s, try out the Xduoo MT-602 hybrid amplifier and the GE JAN 5654W tubes. Definitely a break in period with the tubes but worth. Made my 560s really come alive (imo). Great content btw!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@GraybeardGiffTech]

Whoa, I thought I'd gone over the top with Beyer 1770's for gaming LOL!! Good stuff!!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

ty!

[@gundum1o1]

Great!! Now ya need to get a hold of the Meze Elite and Audeze CRBN! Two HIGHLY formidable competitors in this space. 👍

[@roadeoh]

YOU DID IT YA MAD LAD - great review, really appreciate this one and I’m sold on these, personally 👌👌🙌🙌 Onto the HIFIMAN Arya’s next though, right…?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

hahaha. Definitely have my eye on them =D

[@roadeoh]

@@FreshReviewsYT I GUESS I can hold off on my new headset purchase until I see that next, great review in this series then… 😉

[@MrVic510]

u should try the hd 660s instead close to these but with a way cheaper price tag

[@hectormanuelgomezmedina9387]

I will leave the idea for part 6, a better (and more expensive) headphone than the HD800S: ZMF Verite Closed

[@redache467]

I bought used ones for 950$. Best decision ever

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Hell yea

[@RealSpyduh]

hello great content!. i wann ask you a question i have the HD800s and i just got the JDS element 3 mk2. I'm new to this headphones world!, is there anything i need to do to set up my headphones or is it just plug and play?

[@carbonatedsalad4677]

I’d love to see what you think of the focal elex. Extremely underrated for gaming

[@HuntingLikeAPro]

I’ve been going through your series around the headphones as I’m trying to look for a new pair to replace my PC38X and an amp/dac if recommended I’m loving the series but just wanted to check I’m struggling to find the part 4 video is it still up? Keep it up :)

[@ImurTuta]

I hope you keep those hd800s so you can have a trio of headphones to use when you do dac and amp reviews 😉...I have a feeling with a comparable dac amp setup the hd800s will widen the competitive gap a lot more.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Have more amp/dacs on the way to test!

[@Beansprout-lu8ix]

Dac and amp matter when come to gaming?

[@ImurTuta]

@@Beansprout-lu8ix it's not really about what ur listening to. Some speakers/headphones require more power to properly drive them, that's where an amp comes in. Depending on what your plugged into Some units produce a lot of electrical distortion ( static/hissing ) so a DAC can process the sound away from the electrical noise ( like a computer ) cleaning the audio up greatly.

[@Beansprout-lu8ix]

Thanks ❤

[@Karim-ik5ij]

Have you done a video with objective testing? As in standardized testing. Blindfolded target tracking maybe?

[@District.24]

I found the HD 560S to have excellent imaging, just as others said. However, the bass is not pleasant. I require the bass of the H6PRO, which gives me my satisfying low end without muddying the mids. I would take the 560S into a real FPS competition, but at home - chilling with my homies - I want an enjoyable listening experience along with being up there on the scoreboard of BFV.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Agreed. One of the reasons I love IEMs now

[@scotty_teee4226]

Always wondered this!!!! Looking forward to what else gets thrown in the mix. Tried the 600ohm dt990's? Supposedly more detail and calms the treble and bass slightly over the 250ohm dt990's. I will definitely have to try out the 560's though. I just love the 250ohm dt990's as they retain some of the fun in the sound, with bass but it doesn't muddy anything and still separates the sound fantastic. And still great imaging. Although, I think they are a very much love or hate set of cans, as I can see why some people wouldn't want to maintain some of that bass and raised treble. 560 will be a given to try though 👌

[@KindOldRaven]

I love the video, just one nitpick: if we're listening to directional audio quality stuff and we're listening along through our own headsets - the music added kinda distracts from the example gameplay pieces ;p

[@DamienRamirez]

As someone who recommended the HD800, I stand by my recommendation, HD800s is good for movies & games, not so much for music due to the unnatural forward bass & unnatural sounding bass that's clearly off sounding on a good system, Hence Not good for the price. But on the other hand the HD800 is natural, cheaper because second hand only & works for all 3 & worth the price. I sold my HD800 & bought an Arya, I have not really tested it in games yet, It needs power, It is overpriced. Its great for movies & Music. More depth than HD800s, similar width, cleaner & lower lows. Should be good in theory. Sorry if doubled up, browser has issues.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Thanks!! I need to try the HD800!

[@DamienRamirez]

@@FreshReviewsYT & the HD8XX mmm Dippy mids, bloaty bleedy bass, So horrible lol. Ok so you can probably skip that one when others get them in Nov/Dec.

[@DamienRamirez]

Well the Arya is Fun for gaming = Open worlds. Both the V2 & Stealth, The Stealth you can FPS game with but HD800's beat it. Mainly because it has a "taller" sound that can throw you off in certain directions. So I ended up taking your advice & buying a HD560s for FPS gaming, Arya for movies/MMO gaming/music, Since I sold the HD800.

[@joshualee6932]

HD800 and HD800S are two different headphones btw

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Correct! I need to get my hands on the 800

[@Juice_VI]

Love these videos! I’m still buying (and returning) traditional gaming headphones. I like my PC38X so much better than all of them. Can’t go back to closed headphones. I wish the 38X had better build quality though. It feels so cheap and it creaks and cracks sometimes and that bothers me.

[@MisterRhul]

But they would cost much more, be happy my brother.

[@notblazedfordays9536]

Harmonicdyne Zeus arriving today. Gonna be comparing them to the Austrian audio hi-x55s which have been excellent with the ARC MK2. Unfortunately I returned my hd 560s because I was using an Xbox series x with them and a shitty mixamp pro and the mixamp pro didn’t do much for the 120ohm 560s. Can’t wait for the Zeus to arrive! Hd800s are out but if I’m ever balling enough they’ll be in. As always much obliged fresh reviews!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I’m actually using the x55 rn. Actually fantastic so far

[@notblazedfordays9536]

@@FreshReviewsYT ohhh snaps! Lmk compared to the Zeus what you think cuz if you think they’re better I won’t bother opening the Zeus and I can get 350$ back 😆You are the bees knees!!!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Will let you know!

[@notblazedfordays9536]

@@FreshReviewsYT the Zeus arrived 30 min ago. I couldn’t resist opening them. What a great unboxing experience. Every 300$plus pair of headphones should come in a briefcase like the Zeus 😆. Probably going to keep them regardless of which ones you think are better. But I still definitely want to know what you think between the 2! Now I have an open back and closed back. 🤷

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@notblazedfordays9536 nice to have both! And yea, that unboxing experience is so good hahahaha

[@reckulurn3038]

Another great review. Have you tried the DT 880 600 ohm?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Not yet!

[@yuribezminov2825]

I reccomend the ifi zen dac v2 to power these and make them sound even better only $160 for a dac and amp that is amazing.

[@skateandmore]

+1 I have the Zen DAC v1, amazing DAC/AMP combo for the price. You can even stack it with the Zen CAN later on if you need more power.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I have a zen dac v2 on the way!

[@yuribezminov2825]

Nice

[@yuribezminov2825]

Its honestly amazing

[@joshualee6932]

Zen dac would be underpowering them. The dac section in the zen dac is good but the amp section does not have much power

[@7sukuyomi]

You should try the hd58x next.

[@TheRealSupraVision]

I know this is an older video but a lot of good details in here. I’ve been gaming with my HD560S for a few months now and it’s a big jump from the pc37X I have, I’ve debated picking up a pair of HD800S when I got overtime coming in though.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Great headphone but not a MASSIVE leap. The 560s really work wonders

[@TheRealSupraVision]

@@FreshReviewsYT I’ll keep that in mind.

[@TheRealSupraVision]

@@FreshReviewsYTWhat Dac / Amp do you use with your 800s? I picked up a pair and I’m using the Schiit Hel 2E but I’m debating picking up a balanced Dac/amp.

[@gzrise5988]

oh damn yes

[@markgxo]

Hey Fresh, I bought Tygr's and Zeus's based off your videos, but I recently ended up with DT 1990's and they ended up becoming my main headphone. I think you should try them out.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I might actually give them another try and I might try them with some different Dekoni ear cups

[@markgxo]

@@FreshReviewsYT Do you find them too bright? Maybe my hearing is damaged, lol. I really like them with the analytical pads, but I read that the Dekoni elite velours are highly recommended.

[@egsi]

I would love it if you tested out IEMs/earphones. According to RTings, all the earphones have the best imaging scores. I have my eye on the Sennheiser IE 900...

[@kamakuzi]

IEMs won’t save you money :) I’ve tried a ton, the only two I can recommend are the tin t2 (not pro) for budget fps gaming, or the Traillii (which I currently use). The traillii beat the hd800s in imaging and imo the soundstage feels just as wide as my hd800s thanks to the better detail retrieval and instrument separation. They are the only “closed” IEMs that deliver an out of head experience. The soundstage even beats my open LCDi4 which is insane.

[@egsi]

@@kamakuzi Quite the collection you have there! I have previously owned the HD 800s, fantastic imaging, soundstage and sound but the bass is a bit lacking for my music. Now I own the Hifiman Arya and i'm pretty happy with it, much better bass than the HD800s with a similar soundstage. Though I feel like the Imaging on the 800s was superior when I tried them in R6 Siege and Apex. Vertical imaging, in particular was significantly better, it was so easy to tell if someone was above or below me. When I saw that IEMs had better imaging I had to give them a shot. I will look into your suggestions :)

[@egsi]

@@ACE112ACE112 why not?

[@levinlei8881]

@@egsi i've seen them recommend bad headphones like the m50x or say that the 6xx has spacious soundstage which isn't true at all.

[@thedharmabum]

TY for the very informational series. Would you say the HD560s are probably the best “value” headphones for competitive FPS gaming youve tried so far? Also, is there a mic similar to the modmic you’d recommend to accompany them?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

In all honesty, the value and directional audio you get for $200 is the best I have heard personally. I used to use an old pair of closed back Sony headphones waaaaaay back in the 1990's when playing pro CS leagues. I remember being able to hear every pin drop in that game but I cannot remember for the life of me what they were lol. The 560s are absolutely insane value for the money. I think they blow the PC38x out of the water in CS and Apex. You can get an all in one cable for them made by ABLET on Amazon. It has a boom mic on it, runs fairly cheap and the mic sounds fantastic

[@markus301]

What is the best dac/amp without being so much expensive for gaming for the hd800s?

[@kwicksandz]

I would like to hear your impressions of some other popular mid rangers Fidelio X2 and the akg K702. i have hd800 myself but using either of those in games i dont feel at any disadvantage.

[@j.d.4697]

The problem is, with the 800s being roughly 10x the price, but not 10x the sound quality/performance.

[@Snook_]

Please do some HiFiman's next, higher level. Like Ananda, Arya, Edition X etc. I have used them all including HD800's, PC38x, DT880 etc. and am finding your reviews hold up well. Interested in your oppion on some HiFimans.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Might give the Arya a try!

[@pc_decisions8764]

What is you opinion on hd800 vs pc38x? Do those hold up the hype as Joshua Valour says?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@pc_decisions8764 the 800 does. But it’s way too expensive for not a big enough gap worth of a benefit. The pc38x I felt was very lacking. The HD560s and now the 900 pro x are my favorite options

[@Phatbeater]

Hey man, I was wondering if you were going to try out the dt990s? I'm not sure how similar they are to the 1990s in imaging but they seem to be popular with a lot of pros and good players. I'd like to see a comparison between them and the hd 560 s since they are at similar price points.

[@inVINSONable1]

Seriously pro headphones for a seriously entry level game...... interesting....lol

[@inVINSONable1]

I took your review and just bought a pair though so thank you :)

[@salvyballacc]

Can you do a review on the Moondrop Snows please

[@pc_decisions8764]

Feels weird not to see dt880 and dt990 on the comparison, but that's why tygr are here. I wish there where more reviews like yours. Your series is something I wanted to see 4 years ago, would it be a quest for the best single-player/inmersive headphone?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Thanks 🙏🏽

[@moonmessiah9368]

i think itd be more cost effective to get the 560S or 58X, a solid amp(Zen DAC v2), an end game mouse, artisan mousepads, and a 240HZ DyAC/360hz Monitor for pretty much the same cost as HD800S but the HD800S are so sexy and it has a certain appeal lol

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Haha you are very correct

[@zahitemremetin606]

Not HD58X though, I guess it won't be ideal because it has that infamous 600 series three blob imaging.

[@moonmessiah9368]

@@zahitemremetin606 removing the foam cleared that up for me did a good job lifting the overall veil

[@TheBrandonAF]

You absolutely need to try the Beyerdynamics T1 V2. I have them all. The T1 are right there with my HD800s in Soundstage and imaging but the mids seem better suited for gaming like in Siege. I'm trying to decide where I put the Zeus. They are good but do not have the clarity. I don't have a lot of hours on them. Best packaging ever though.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Once you get used to the bit of extra bass on the Zeus your ears begin to pick up the clear imaging through that bit of extra bass. It definitely takes me a hot second coming from the more tinny/analytical cans. I will absolutely check out the T1

[@Pabula]

Any chance of comparing the HD560s to the HD400Pro, specially since you like and know so much the HD560s, would be great to see your POV on the HD400OPro.

[@kalkydra]

Great overview man thanks! What amp you use for the hd800s?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

At the time I was using the a90d and d90se

[@Brandon3000CA]

love your content, you tweeted on the moondrop starfield, what are you impression of them, I have them and they rock.

[@gilbertliebenberg187]

Can you please do a review on the HD 599? I’m heavily looking into buying these for the same reason you are using them

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Will start compiling a list now to get more sets in the $150-$300 range to test

[@zahitemremetin606]

@@FreshReviewsYT Can you review EPOS GSP 300? It's $67 on Amazon right now. You can also get GSP 301 or GSP 302 instead, same headset different colors.

[@darkenblade986]

thank you this video was very helpful. also very nice apex game play. have you found any iems that can compare to the hd560s?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I have yes.

[@darkenblade986]

@@FreshReviewsYT do you have a video on this? Can you tell me?

[@nex3877]

Are you also going to try the Drop HD 8XX, they are a good bit cheaper than the HD800s and the reviews so far have been pretty positive.

[@Condred]

I'm guessing if they're anything like the HD800s, there won't be too much point. It's still too expensive to be worth it (for games at least). It's really a headphone for audio enthusiasts only

[@zahitemremetin606]

Check out Crinacle's review on them

[@randomahclips69]

You should try the 660s at some point cause those supposedly image very well and I wonder how they stack up to the 560s and the harmonic

[@Dew4lk]

Great comparisons! Love em! How do you feel about HD 560s vs HD 660s? Also, have you tried some wireless alternatives as Razer BlackShark V2 Pro or SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless? How does the wireless alternatives compare to the wired ones? Thanks!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I feel usb headsets in general are just not quite as good as a solid stereo headset. That being said, I do feel the hyperx cloud 2, logitech pro x headset, and the black shark v2 wireless are all actually quite good. The orbit s and audeze penrose are great also

[@devilzavacado8430]

The wife must have been happy about this purchase lol

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Rofl

[@BlatantThrowAway]

What do you set your audio settings in-game as? Headphone? Surround? Stereo?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Should be set to stereo

[@melrexmelrex]

@@FreshReviewsYT Could you explain why. I play on consoles and set in game audio to surround, headphone. I was never sure about what audio settings to use. @Biatant Throwaway that was a great question.

[@Phantom_Nyan]

well since you madlad tried the 800s try now nothing stops you from lcd-gx lol

[@auwoody98au]

Have you tried out a pair of HD 660S? I wonder what you would think of them vs the other headphones you've tried 🙂

[@drbadn3ws]

Great video, loving your headphone review series. Do you recommend any externals with high quality headphones like a D/A converter or Amp/Preamp device? I'm looking into the HD660's and it says people often buy those externals with it but I'm wondering if it's worth the extra money.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Definitely unless you have a really solid internal sound card that can power them. I just splurged and picked up the topping L50 ensemble dac/amp stack. I’ll let you know how it is but it’s super pricey. The zen dac v2 might do a good job with them which is quite a bit less

[@drbadn3ws]

@@FreshReviewsYT Awesome, thank you for the input.