My all time favorite Sennheiser headphones

[@Algabatz]

I got my first headphones when I was like nine, back in the early 1970's, a pair of HD 414's, which I used for years and years. The foam eventually crumbled from age so I cut new ones from the underside of my mattress, hoping my parents wouldn't notice (no ebay spare part back then). I still have them. I used Sony headphones for a while after buying the then new Sony Walkman WMD6-C (yup I still have that one too, but not the phones). Then I bought a pair of HD 580, which I still have but one of the coils broke after a fall, still looking for a spare part. I then bought a pair of HD650's, which were fantastic, I eventually upgraded to a pair of HD 700, but I really had a hard time parting with the 650's. I had the same problem when I recently upgraded again to a pair of HD800S. But I had to sell the 700 to finance the 800S. I think you sort of get used to a specific sound after using the phones for a while, which makes it hard to change. Even though the 800S (in my opinion) does have a wider sound stage and a clearer, "faster" bass, I still loved the HD700. On that note I wonder if Sennheiser sort of managed to keep the midrange "Sennheiserish" from the 414 and forward, and that that's why I still like the sound. A bit like why I still like modern rock bands that sound like they were recorded in the 1970's. Thanks for in interesting video. Greetings from Sweden.

[@noth606]

you know you can swap the HD580 spealer elements for the ones of the HD600 and they should sound very very close if not near identical with those, and you can actually get the HD600 elements from Sennheiser spare parts shop, or a well stocked hifi supplier in Germany (a little more expensive usually) or NL like here www.proaudioshop.nl/Speaker-voor-HD-580-en-HD-600-hoofdtelefoon--300-ohm-p-18938.html Would be a shame not to fix those glorious 'phones and you could resell them for more than the parts cost if you like.

[@motorradmike]

Steve, your Sennheiser headphone journey was so eerily similar to mine. My very first headphone was the HD-414 rebranded as a Realistic sold by Radio Shack in 1973. Same color foam earpieces and all. Loved the open back Sennheiser sound. My second pair were the HD-580 identical to yours. Third pair were the 600 ohm HD-600’s. Last pair were the 150 ohm Massdrop 58XX Jubilee. The lower ohm rating and higher efficiency of the 58XX allows my Project box Direct S2 DAC to drive them smoothly with ease. The 600’s are my hands down favorite driven by a Schiit Valhalla tube headphone amp. Wunderbar spatial imaging and oh so sweet midrange. Great segment, Steve.

[@martytoo]

I have my original 414's with the box and receipt from Midwest Hifi in Downers Grove, Illinois. I have had grey, blue and yellow foam pieces. I bought replacement wire too. I've paid more than 3x the original $24 or so that I paid to buy them from Midwest for the replacement foam and wire. My grey plastic has darkened over the years...

[@inabit1956]

My HD600's are keepers. To me, the best resolving, most neutral of the 580/600/650 series. Tyll was right about these. They stayed on his "Wall of Fame" all the way to the end of Innerfidelity.

[@clownworldresidentii5184]

amazing headphones indeed.

[@Saboda53]

The “end of Innerfidelity”. 😥

[@scottlowell493]

@Spongebob Schwanzkopf Not at all. Same driver, just re-eq'd response.

[@Willymaze]

@Spongebob Schwanzkopf most people think is a step back. Now. the 660S are highly regarded as an upgrade.

[@woopygoman]

@@scottlowell493 I used to think the same but the HD 650 is a technically superior pair. It has a different damping concept, a different diaphragm shape and lower THD. Sources: HD 650 user manual and kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y52vY2ZtZ72AlZI

[@dilbyjones]

Don't forget story driven video games! Such a stellar VALUE. Another great episode MR.G

[@genez429]

In the 70's I had the HD 414's and listened to them through a Shure Solo-Phone SA- headphone amplifier. They left me impressed with their clarity and how distinct each instrument could sound. At the time, I was told they were what the astronauts used in their space capsule as to hear others around them and what ever was coming over their connection to earth. Great to see them again! ;)

[@itsme-qk2vb]

Welcome back Steve. I've been waiting for you to dig into your headphone tree.

[@carlosbauza1139]

My HD600 are in use every other day alternating with KEF LS50. Great!

[@cliveraynor3982]

Aren't they. I own a pair too.

[@jonathansturm4163]

I bought the HD 414s back in 1972 and loved them. When the foam ear pads disintegrated some time in the 1980s I replaced them. Then the cable became unreliable and I couldn't source a replacement. I wasn't using them much by then anyway. Like Steve says, great mid-range and comfort, especially for a spectacle wearer. Now it's off to the post office to collect my Stax headphones :-)

[@spektrograf]

Still have my 580's from 1996. Was my first hifi purchase and still going strong.

[@thegrimyeaper]

I have the HD 700's and absolutely loved them from day one.

[@thegloriouspotato6223]

Those have always been dream headphones after I just missed an amazing deal on a used pair.

[@louisperlman8030]

Sometime in the mid 2000's, I heard the HD650's at a New York show, driven by stacked Headroom amps. I was blown away, and they were super comfortable over my glasses as well. A couple of years ago, I saw a deal too good to resist on Black Friday, so I went for them. Great for late night listening and giving the rest of my family a break. Yes, they are nice and warm and maybe too smooth on top, but they're not my primary transducer. And live Pink Floyd or David Gilmour is awesome on the 650's. Gives a new meaning to Comfortably Numb.

[@stevemiller9480]

I remember the HD 414's, yes they sounded like no other at the time and it was easy to replace the cord.

[@JioFreedOfOphan]

Got my HD 600's for $225 years ago just because there was a scratch on the box, nothing beats an amazon warehouse deal. Not sure if I'll ever get a pair of the HD 650's or 580's but I'd definitely lean toward the latter if I did.

[@dnalekaw4699]

HD 600's were $119 on amazon the other day

[@rd264]

@@dnalekaw4699 doubt it

[@dnalekaw4699]

@@rd264 well I bought a pair but ok

[@jacobbellwood6184]

I bought a pair of Echo stereo headphones model number HS-1000D with individual volume controls in 2003, they were then second hand and they are still going strong. To me these seem to be great at getting close to full range warm enough sound that the base level isn't too hot unless the input is too high in the tune so to me these seem to be the basic level studio quality set but none the less I have been happy with them. I recently bought a cheap set for whenever I decide to travel with my Walkman, yes a Walkman with a few tapes, the digital devices for me have failed where the Walkman is still going, I've had the same Walkman for around 20 years and the batteries I use lasts the whole day where an MP3 player only lasts me roughly 3 hours tops.

[@MaterLacrymarum]

I use HD650's every day. Great headphones. Wouldn't mind trying 800s - but the price is too much.

[@scottlowell493]

The HD800S are really overhyped. The big difference? The sense of space. Other headphones costing a fraction as much have equal detail, just less apparent "Space". Save your money, don't bother, unless you like things farther away.

[@EJM07]

@@scottlowell493 in my opinion having good sense of space is really important for headphones. i used the sony wh-1000xm3 (i know this isn't purely listening headphones) which has lots of detail but, it sounds so shallow you don't really know where those details are coming from. now i'm listening on the sennheiser 57x jubilee and it feels like my ears have been freed from a tiny box. BUT definitely not for that extra cost of the HD800S though.

[@soundhead18]

I kinda prefer my modded 800’s to the 800S. Both have similar sense of natural space, but when I tried the HD 800S, in some songs it felt like the singer’s voice was pressing on the spot right between your eyebrows and it was annoying and hard to get used to. The mods on my 800’s smooth out the high (a little too much almost) more than the factory mod of the HD 800S. It might have to do with different ear pads and a cork ring mod on the inner plastic. My 800’s are best with some EQ...but what headphone isn’t?

[@soundhead18]

The 800 and 800S are spacial, but not in an airy sort of way.

[@soundhead18]

If you can find a Hi-Fi store that has multiple headphones to test like I did, that’s the way to go.

[@emanuelsolsjo7348]

I have Stax L700, Focal Clear, but still listen to HD600 regularly

[@billfrigo7602]

Do you play any games with the above? If so, which are the best?

[@Audfile]

I had the 580s too. I miss them terribly.

[@6643bear]

Hi Steve. Great video, I have a few sennheisers starting hd420sl, hd485, hd575' hd 560s, hd6xx and hd660s. I have fitted custom cans bass mod to the 6xx, also replaced the ear pads for much thicker ones too. Regards Mark

[@net_news]

Wow Steve I thought I was the only person on planet earth who likes the HD700s... I didn't like the HD800s at all and I prefer the HD700s over the (imho boring) HD600/650s. Audiophiles hated me for saying that... I feel so happy now knowing you have a similar opinion! What an honor!

[@yaniv-nos-tubes]

i have them as well maybe 7 years now. i highly recommend swapping the pads to dekoni and the cable to a nice copper cable without silver. both things help a lot with the weak bass and make the highs slightly less forward,stock pads are too slim so the driver is too close to your ear.

[@net_news]

@@yaniv-nos-tubes thanks for the heads up great info

[@jpdj2715]

I bought the HD660S more on impulse than clear thinking. It is fabulous, already on a simple 400 currency USB DAC-headphone amp (does USB bus mastering). Or on an AudioQuest DragonFly Cobalt to give my smartphone a 3.5mm connector. Maybe a better amp, one day, that can drive this HD balanced. I listened to earlier open models and found them too thin (poor bass). This one sounds really neutral to a bit warm. In the late 1970s, I bought a Pioneer Monitor (10?). Beautifully made. With a large Yagi pointed to national radio, and a very good tuner, it revealed the end of a song when the studio technician opened the presenter mike potmeter and the noise floor rose a bit. Closed, dynamic. Had been my reference for a couple decades. Until the arrival of Sonus Faber Extremas.

[@g.s.3074]

Actually Steve I got a pair in 1968 while I was still living in Chicago. I remember lying on the floor of my parents house listening through a Zenith stereo console playing Nefertiti. They sounded really great. My set had grey ear pads. The replaceable cable was a nice feature, and the attractive German girl on the box was a selling point as well!

[@access_denied1082]

I still have and use my HD580 Precision since 1999 :)

[@cliveraynor3982]

I own a pair of original HD600's from around 2000 - not THE originals from 1997 - and a pair of Sennheiser HD650's which I bought in 2013 and I love them. There are criticisms yes but they are mainly neutral with deep, controlled bass, which I personally like and alright, they aren't the widest in terms of image resolution and are quite 'dark' in background colour but they do so much, so right. You say they are not analytical, however this has to do with the way they arrange the details. Don't be fooled. There's ample detail on offer. It's the way in which the Sennheisers arrange it into a cohesive whole, that belies just how much of a neutral window upon the sound they offer. I think they are amazing. Only reduced by the quality of front end equipment that you match them to. I can't wait to get my ears around a pair of HD800S's. Oh and I've never seen your particular model of 580's. Very unusual. Greetings from the UK.

[@kittydukakis]

It'd be terrific if you do more headphone reviews. You have seen how it has evolved over time and can see things from a historical perspective.

[@melvinrimorin7840]

I agree with you. I auditioned a couple of Sennheisers, from their lower priced offerings up to the HD598 and I believe an HD650 and my conclusion is, they sound soft to some degree. Not mellow, but soft. It's probably the sound that I'm used to and coming from a Grado and a Shure which are both sharp, fast, and revealing, I don't really dig the Sennheiser house sound. BUT, "beguiling" is also a way to describe them perfectly. And that is a compliment. I don't imagine ever being fatigue by that kind of sound. It's intended for endless listening sessions. Nonetheless, if you love rock including the fast, heavier genres like progressive or metal, won't be good for those. Maybe the classic HD600, which based on reviews are more neutral and less warm will do the trick (or the mighty 700). I will audition both one day and compare them with the 650 and maybe, just maybe, one of them will be my first (and last) Sennheiser. :)

[@MISSION315]

My two favourite pair are hd 595 and my hd 580s tried comparing nothing came close, nice vid 🎧

[@bartonyount9421]

Back when they first came to the U.S. I bought the HD 414. With a set of ear pads replaced later, I still have them. Mine are black and I still enjoy them.

[@o.b.v.i.u.s]

i was born/raised in germany... remember the 414's well, that's all they had at the record listening stations in german dept stores... back then (circa 1968 thru 1976) i had a set of koss pro 4aa... memories...

[@brendanhoffmann8402]

I got a pair of HD 480 from eBay a while ago, the foam on them was terrible, I got replacement foam but they always fell off. So I got my Mum to knit me some headphone covers! They're awesome now! I also have HD 558, HD 280 Pro, momentum on ear (1st gen) and Urbanite XL. I like the Urbanites for listening to pop music on my iPhone but the HD 480 and HD 280 Pro I use for recording and mixing, the HD 558s are really good for mixing too.

[@ctesta11]

Nice review, Steve! Started my journey with 598's, still love the precise but fun sound of those when hiking, etc. The 800S paired with bottlehead crack tube amp is musical heaven for orchestral recordings, especially -- with an equalizer and the bottlehead amp, all genres are enjoyable, though I prefer the Beyerdynamic T1 2nd gen for rock, jazz, etc. The 600's are balanced and neutral and great for watching movies with surround effects.

[@djsoulfilter]

My journey into "audiophile" headphones started with the Sennheiser HD518's. I bought them refurbished for around $45.

[@noth606]

mine also started with Sennheisers but I can't recall which, then detoured a bit to KOSS and UE IEM's and then right back to Sennheiser, the sound is simply what sets them apart, right now I am using HD515's (I'm old) but plan on HD580/HD600/HD6xx/HD700 soon, depends on what is available 2nd hand for a decent price when I make the jump.

[@oldgeezerstechreview4048]

Still prefer and love my HD800S with their glorious soundstage

[@larsandersen9134]

Old Geezer's Tech Review I am saving up for a pair of HD800/HD800s. How do they sound compared to the HD650/700 and what Amp/DAC do you use with them?

[@Niels133]

My favorite Sennheiser till now, is the HD 700. It's very relaxed and comfortable. Have also the IE 800, for when it's too warm for over ears.

[@pianistor555]

Have you heard the HD660S? I've heard a lot they share the same driver with the 700, so really wondering how much of a sonic difference there is between the two.

[@Niels133]

@@pianistor555 No I did'nt. Iam happy with the 700.

[@pianistor555]

@@Niels133 i see, I do own all the 6X0 line and the 660S is the widest and most detailed sounding of the three, warmer than the 600 but not as warm as the 650, I do think the 650 is the smoothest and most relaxing of all. I might pick up the 700 because I've heard people that either absolutely love them or dislike them.

[@ianyates7742]

(1st) hi Steve I prefer speakers but it’s nice to see retro head phones are still up there with newer models

[@skris8227]

My first pair of headphones which I used for decades were the Sennheiser HD-424s. I loved them but little did I realise they were slightly thin sounding. Then I owned the Sennheiser HD-518, HD-600, HD-650s and found them "too 'warm' sounding" too. Actually it's that their bass is 'tubby' and their highs a little dark. Great with (slightly thinner overall) 1970s recordings, but not current releases. My current all favourite pair of headphones, the HiFiMAN HE4XXXs (from Drop), are not tubby sounding at all with excellent bass punch and extension, but will be nicer if they were just a "lttle bit" darker, - or when paired with a fancy tube amp. Tell us Steve who makes an in-between open-back pair of headphones (between the HD-6XXs and the HE-4XXXs that can be used with normal (non-tube) amps and devices?

[@Saboda53]

Good story, Steve. My journey began in college. I wanted a pair of Koss Pro-4AAs, but ended up with Superex Pro-B-V’s (out of Yonkers!) instead. Loved ‘em; I still remember the magic of listening to Magical Mystery Tour on my first good ‘phones! Then, over the years, Sony HDM-V6 followed by Sennheiser HD-580 Precisions and Grado SR60s, the Senns being my main cans - driven by an original Schiit Vali. Today, my new Sennheiser HD-6XX just arrived! Trying to decide whether to drive ‘em with the Vali, Oppo’s UDP-205 (with its built-in headphone amp), or maybe a new Bottlehead Crack! Maybe the Vali is good enough??

[@carvern1]

I first owned Koss Pro4aa but quickly moved to the Senn 414s. Owned Audio-Tecnicas, Yamahas, Koss ESP electrostatics, Grados. My go to units now are some KEF and Senn 580.

[@MVC670]

Good old HD414. They were my second headphones, the first was the Koss Prom 4AAA. There was no room in the tight-fitting Kosses for sound to bounce around. The sound was absolutely wonderful, and almost made up for the Godawful pinching on your ears. So, the HD414 was an attractive alternative. I liked them from the start. They had beaucoup highs, but I never found them piercing. Yes, bass was wimpy, but sometimes the lack of bass revealed a lot of detail. I loved listening to the Who's Live at Leeds; the bass was a distinctive melody of its own, in counterpoint to the lead guitar. They've quit working, but I think they're still somewhere down in the basement.

[@Drackleyrva]

My first 'quality' headphones were Sennheisers from Circuit City---black with yellow ear cups. They were soooo good but after a while, the yellow foam started to disintegrate.

[@theaudiocircle]

Dwight R were these the HD 455?

[@thorwulfx1]

I have a pair of HD700s, and have always been quite pleased with them. Very detailed, without being fatiguing or overly incisive. I once had a pair of HD570s (I was not able to afford 580s at the time). They were never *quite* what I hoped, but they were good. In all honesty, the 'phones that will always hold a special place for me are the little PX 100s, purchased to replace a worn-out pair of Koss Porta Pros. Other than occasionally replacing the ear foam, they seem to be indestructible, and have always sounded better than cheap foldable on-ears have any right to.

[@johnbaker6461]

I love my HD 700s! But like so many have said, I found them piercing at first, even after break-in. Then I found a KZbinr who recommended a cheap fix. He said to place a ring of self-adhering surgical wrap, maybe four layers thick, inside each cup. These rings absorb the 5 to 7 kHz reflections while letting through direct sound. My rings show the craft skill of a Kindergartner, but they work perfectly, and you can't see them behind the cup liners. My 700s are still clear and detailed, but now warmer and not piercing.

[@jekken333]

I also took chances in purchasing my hd700 since almost all of the reviews you can find online don't recommend them. Bought them online brand new without even auditioning them, but once I had the first listening experience on them I fell in love with the sound how detailed they are. The treble didn't bother me at all. Most of the time I use it as stock, however, sometimes I use them with sonarworks to flatten during gaming.

[@JenniferEliseAtchiso]

For me it started with 414(yellow ducky)... then the hd600... roommate’s cat ended those... then another pair of hd600s, and now hd660s with Corpse Cable’s ‘Gravedigger’ balanced cable plugged into a Klipsch Heritage Headphone Amp/DAC listening through Roon to binaural dsd 256 files!... a long way from the ‘yellow duckys’ of the past. Throw in some Grado 225s and the old Koss foldables, and an’Audio by Van Alstine’ headphone amp, and youve got my whole headphone journey. I was born an audiophile more than 62 years ago!

[@jerryjazzbo2845]

First heard the 414s from a friend. Great design and best mids i heard 'round that time, but it wasn't till the mid 90s that i first owned a pair of Senns...the 580 (which ended up with my nephew). Tried other brands after (AKGs, Beyer, Denon). Went for the 650s at the start of the decade. Still lovin it. Today I own a few more headphones mostly influenced by Tyll, but the 650 (or Massdrop) remains as a solid recommendation to friends.

[@tameem9848]

i use the Schiit Loki to tune my hd 6xx.. holly schiiit..now it sounds right

[@Phil-yj7qx]

Nice review and a good insight, i have a pair of HD540 Gold from 1990 , you really need to try these if you can't get a pair of golds go for the 540 mk2 similar but the Gold's have the hand matched drivers were available in 600 and 300 ohms, i have the 300 and they sound incredible, not as warm as the 580,600, 650 series but very open , detailed, super smooth large soundstage and just all round amazing, IMO one of the best dynamics out there and they are 30 years old! Just goes to show how little things have moved on , i think sennheiser threw everything at these when they designed them and their R & D dept definitely come up trumps. They have a big following on the likes of Head Fi etc and you can see why.....

[@MultiPetercool]

My Dad got the HD-614s. Black with yellow foam. We had them in our College radio station.

[@larsandersen9134]

I love your videos. And i am a Sennheiser fanboi. Have you ever wanted to do a review of the Senneiser HD800+HDVD800 using XLR cables?

[@sonicthehedgehog989]

In a way, the hd700 still lives at least it's driver is in the hd660s, and it's incredible. I really like the hd660s to the point that I own two of them.

[@zulumax1]

I still have my Sennheiser HD-420's from the early 80's. They were a Consumer Reports best buy back then. They are 600 ohm so they won't sound good unless you have a good headphone amp that can drive that load properly. Comfort and light weight. I had the Grado 225's but they were bright and highly uncomfortable so they were sold, the 420 is my favorite for classical and piano or anything acoustic.

[@CLMT619]

I have HD 580 from the 90's and Ive always loved them and always used them with my home stereo, they are underpowered with portable devices

[@ericelliott227]

I bet those old vintage Sennheisers sound better than some more expensive modern cans in a way. I have two pair of Senns: HD518 and HD6xx/650 (only difference is color of the plastic). My HD518s are the first pair of real headphones I ever owned. I got them back around 2004 I think, its been a while. Prior to those I had all manner of inexpensive on-ear cans and hated all of them. The HD518s are still my most comfortable headphones, they even beat the HD650s. However, while being my most comfortable, they are also my worst sounding. I like articulate, clean, musical bass, but the HD518s are too bass-heavy. The problem is that they drop off a frequency cliff at about 9kHz and never quite make it back, so details are lost. Even though they are open they have a very narrow stage. I keep them for their comfort and for those cold days when I don’t care, but must use headphones. My HD6xx/650 cans have better sound (slightly) than the HD518s, but still somewhat veiled. Then again, they are not broken-in yet, so sound could easily improve. The problem is they are like wearing a vice on my head, clamping force is ridiculous and I have an average head size. I can’t wear them longer than 10 minutes at best. Most of my cans I can’t wear very long. At best I’m good for one album side with all but the HD6xx/650, Takstar Pro80s and Status Audio CB-1. My best sounding headphones are the Status Audio CB-1 (closed back). The most balanced cans I have heard and I’ve heard plenty all the way up to $3000! That said, while I view headphones as a necessary evil to be avoided as much as possible, I am not intrigued in the HiFi Man cans suggested in the video. My amps are Schiit Audio Magni 2, JDS Labs O2 (it’s ok) and my Parasound Preamp and Marantz CD player. My best sounding headphone plug-in is the Parasound because the tone controls work with the headphone jack as well! I wish someone made a reasonably priced dedicated headphone amp with a 3-band EQ or something. Good luck even finding any dedicated headphone amp with tone controls.

[@BlankBrain]

I got 414s in college. I bought some HD 598 SEs a couple years ago. I'm thinking of springing for the Drop HD 6XXs. The thing is, I also want to get a couple JBL 2405 supertweeters.

[@Tripokaridos22]

660s the best of all Senns for me.

[@Tripokaridos22]

@YggdrasilAE its between 600 and 650 with more clarity and faster driver. Also imaging is better. Soun signature goes closer to 600.

[@juliaset751]

I had a pair of the HD 414’s and they changed headphone listening for me. They are one of the HiFi classics. They had a problem with the plug-in connectors on the drivers becoming intermittent though.

[@amirjubran1845]

Great comparisons. Right on with the 58x and 6xx. I have a really nice headphone amp that is quite incisive and neutral, and with that I find the 6xx just sounds smoother and more refined... Close but more relaxing and enjoyable than the 58x. Never tried the 700. Too bad there was never a 700s.

[@Projacked1]

Still have an HD 414, great design....

[@thomaswachter7782]

I bought the HD598 and absolutely love them, but I am intrigued by the HD6xx, that may be my next one.

[@bosk1n]

HD 6xx are great. Got them from massdrop as well as O2 SDAC + AMP. Have to get myself hi-end closed backs now. Looking toward focal elegia.

[@erikdarman591]

HD 414 for ever. ❤️

[@thisisnev]

Let's hear it for the vintage headphones! My main pair at the moment is a pair of late '70s Yamaha HP-50 orthodynamics (i.e. planar magnetic), reconfigured for stereo. They take a bit of driving, but the detail is incredible and the bass, while not powerful, sounds natural. And they only cost me £30, including the modification.

[@rick-val22]

I have the 6xx and hd 700 and i absolutely love the 700s. I don't know why people crap on them. I could understand that when they first came out they were over priced but i got mine brand new in 2008 for $550 and at that price they are a bargain. I do need a new pad for the headband if anyone knows where i can get one.

[@martinfox2244]

Thanks. I need a list of phones rated by characteristic. Flat response vs V shaped. Soundstage and imaging in my case. I have 15-20 year old Grado 225s. I like the sound but soundstage is right between the ears. My impression you have to make with the cash if you want a Sennheiser with sound stage.

[@MrJabinho]

Hi Steve what do you think about Sennheiser HD497 ? You wrote a review back in 2003. Price for unit in great conditon is 16 USD.

[@FairyNL]

I still have the HD580's, not used in more than 10 years. It has the wrong connector now, the original one failed. Thinking of restoring the headphone with a new cable and pads and headband instead of buying new. Should I?

[@cr0ft-2k]

For some reason I never got into headphones. I mean - I have them, but primarily I've been an IEM guy and listened on the go. I just thought big cans were sweaty and uncomfortable. And then I got the Sennheiser HD58X and I guess now I'm a headphone guy, trying to find the next step up. But I plan on holding on to these until they break, or I do, because now I know what good headphones are supposed to sound like. But I believe it was the HD580 Jubilee that really kicked off the HD600 series and the legend of that lineup (and arguably HD58X is in that series, name notwithstanding).

[@JSym92]

The HD580 Precision was Axel Grell's first project at Sennheiser, and arguably (subjective I know) also his best. They already compete right up there with the HD600 for resolution, and even edge them out for timbre and linearity. The HD580 Jubilee was a limited edition with a "special flavor", which ended up being so well received that Sennheiser carried that exact sound over to the first gen HD600. Even today, the HD580 is one of the most neutral and natural sounding headphones on the entire market, and continues to put plenty of kilobuck headphones to shame.

[@MAELOB]

I am loving my HD58X - just enjoying the music and only 150USD

[@gregoryggood]

Sennheiser headphones are also among the few brands that I find comfortable enough to wear for extended listening sessions. This matters at least as much as sound quality to me.

[@cliveraynor3982]

Agreed. There comfort is superb. I've not found anything better. That could in part, be to do with the fact that they are open backs. Great sound and great breathability.

[@steveearnshaw2216]

My hd. 414’s cost me $10 at a thrift store. A great improvement over my Koss Pro 4aaa’s.

[@yaniv-nos-tubes]

at last some lost honor to my 700. with dekoni leather pads(more bass impact i have the fenestrated sheepskin) and copper cable =warmer tone less harshness (black dragon or custom cans)instead of the stock (silver plated=ultra detail).after these>200$ mods they are amazing. extremely comfortable and light and to my opinion the best sennheiser headphones ever

[@jeronunkoffunk9437]

Thanks Steve, enjoy the review as usual. I've seen those old Sennheisers before but didn't really know what I was looking at or pay them much attention. That's very cool. However I'm not heavy into headphones but in recent years I've come across various nice headphones at thrift stores a pair of ancient AKGs in original box, I think "k141" just recently gave them up to a friend they are too Bright for my taste. I found a pair of sennheiser HD 598se at 12.99, I was just wondering how those are ranked if anyone knows I have nothing appropriate really play them with

[@bertoray5497]

Stumbled upon and listened to this viddy on good old hd600s. Had the 414s back in the day. Sony Walkman never sounded so good. Also have HD6xx because sound and value.

[@Snake_2066]

So great to see the HD 700 get some love! May I ask where you got the leather pads? And how do they affect the sound? I love the stock pads for the lightness and soft feeling, but i’m open to experimentation. But anyhoo, I have them and the hate they get is completely overblown. I think the fact they were $1k is what people were most upset about. That and the deceptively flimsy cable. Other than that? Fantastic. It seems we’re the minority though and it’s sad they are discontinued. I know they’re offering them on their site, but I think they’re just clearing stock and we might get a revised version here soon. (Unless maybe that could be considered the 660s? 🤔) still, the 7xx model number needs to be filled. We’ll wait and see how that turns out. Thanks for the great content, and thanks for going against the grain and staying true to yourself and your own ears!

[@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac]

Thank, the pads are Dekoni Elite Sheepskin, they're excellent.

[@yaniv-nos-tubes]

swap the cable to the custom cans cable and the pads to dekoni elite sheepskin.got my cable today 150$ beautifuly made,sounds closer less harsh more body .the leather pads make the headphones less airy the seal is better and less bass goes out so you get the most bass with elite sheepskin

[@storage-space4927]

yaniv have either of you guys tried the fenestrated sheepskin? If so how do they differ from the non fenestrated sheepskin? I have them and the modhouse mods on mine and boy they sound great!

[@oskar9182]

Alright then, so if I found a fully working pair of the Sennheiser hd-414 for a single dollar, was that a good deal?

[@Miskatonik]

I´m totally in love with my HD800, it´s my favorite HP. I did the SDR mod and never found it too bright, maybe it´s my amp (Burson Conductor). It´s musical heaven for orchestral/instrumental music. For pop/rock I prefer planars for the bass rumble.

[@billfrigo7602]

Which planars are your favorite?

[@m4nc1n1]

I love my Massdrop HD 58X Jubilee's

[@krenkson]

I had some Sennheisers cans, they are great but I do not like their analytical sound. All of their headphones I tried have this neutral / flat sound which is not something for enjoyable. Some EQ might be solution to this but me personally I prefer the warm sound of Japanese beasts like Denon or Fostex. Thats what I call musical enjoyment.

[@headphonejedimaster3755]

Wow what a great discussion. You should have the 600 and 6xx in your collection just so that you can use them as references to other open backs in the same price range. Also, the 660s For use with an iPad or mobile device, I like the 58X the best, it plays the loudest and sounds the most dynamic With a tube amp, I like the 600 the best. But there is that veil, which I especially notice coming from the comparatively crisper and clearer Grado RS2E

[@Zockopa]

Liked the old HD-560/565 Ovations. Then years later used the HD-595/598. They werent as good as the older ones,but still for the price (under 200€) ok.

[@dnalekaw4699]

yeah the 565 with hd 265 baffles are the best headphone i've ever heard

[@JohannnesBrahms]

Still using my 424's from 1974. Black with yellow pads instead of white.

[@NBK6KP9]

I love mine too.

[@theaudiocircle]

Hey Steve, I recently found the HD 455 in a thrift store with original box and paperwork. I can’t find much about these online, it has a price of $99.99 on the box, which makes me think it was a consumer product. The headphones have a particular sound, I don’t know if I like it or not yet, but is definitely not as crisp as newer headphones, I wonder if there is any maintenance that can be done to the Sennheiser headphones in general, or this specific model its just not amazing(?)

[@stvitalkid7981]

Steve, Did your original pair of Sennheisers come with a copy of their dummy-head recording? Mine did. It was intended to demonstrate the benefits of the open-air design.

[@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac]

No, it did not.

[@jackturtle131]

Had an set like that in the 70"s I would like that they made an new run of them I would buy an set again And I don't think I would be the only one

[@davepastern]

Ah...the best headphones I've ever had the pleasure of listening too are Sennheisers - HD540 Gold references.

[@edwardbalboa5528]

Love the 580 ... 600 and 650 too ... 650 is fuller sounding

[@jimgardner5129]

And here I sit, listening to, and absolutely loving, my Sennheiser HD 280 Pros. For the price, they can't be beat. I know a few people who own them. There are 3 pairs in my household. I have a pair to give as a gift. Mr. Rick Beato of KZbin fame wears a pair online. For the $$, they're perfection. I luv 'em even if they are some of the ugliest I've seen. (On that level they're competing with the 700's. Haha.)

[@kasparsb6172]

I do own the HD 565/580/700 and completely agree about the HD700, for myself they much better than the HD800. The HD700 are "alive" compared to all other Senns. And it's mindblowing how the marketing people from China companies could kill the HD700 with the help from some audiophiliac forums. Nobody really cares nowdays for a hard to drive and listen old planar magnetic (if they not already fallen apart). The HD700 could turn in to a collectors item.

[@edwardbalboa5528]

565 ovation lovely also

[@salmonline]

HI, Steve. I'd be very interested in your thoughts concerning the differences between your original Sennheisers and the new-ish, similarly-styled Koss KPH30i. Thanks👍

[@stevenjackson8226]

Because I can't set up my full-on speakered audio system right now, I've got full-on into the headphone thing. Long before this, I did pick up a pair of Sennheiser Precision HD-580s. Through my best DACs, a Pete Millett tubed hybrid headphone amp - molasses. Yuck. Didn't like the result. Couldn't get it to work. Now, digging deeper into the headphone landscape, I do have both Massdrop/Drop x Sennheiser HD-6XXs and 58X Jubilees. I have a nice assortment of DACs, amps, and amp/DAC combos to mix and match with. The Senns sound okay to good with most of the gear, but especially the 6XXs do shine with the Bottlehead Crack + Speedball. I decided just go for it and to make the out 'n out commitment of the Bottlehead/Sennheiser pairing. All my other headphones - Hifiman HE-400is, Massdrop Focal Elexes and Hifiman Edition XXs - are low impedance and won't work with the Crack, so that amp is just for the Senns. And it does sound great. I've been finding myself listening to that set up most often. As you mention, I don't think I'd recommend one of the Senns from that family to most folks; folks who aren't so committed. I might recommend the 580X Jubilee. It's much less treacly than the 650/6XX, less pricey, and even easier to drive. It's a very nice headphone. But mostly I would tend to send someone towards a Hifiman HE-400i/400S/4XX.

[@dreic16]

Is the Hifiman HE-560 even better than the 400 series? (I have the opportunity to buy one at 120USD so it'll probably be worth it regardless)

[@stevenjackson8226]

@@dreic16 I haven't heard the HE-560. For that price, yes, you can't lose to give them a try. Let us know what you think!

[@Startekselva]

By the way HD580 are 300ohm you told as 150 ohm i do own all HD series From HD580 Precision,HD580 Jubilee Carbon Fibre,HD600,HD650,HD6xx,HD58x Jubilee,HD660s just now im a collector of all Hd Series

[@proffessasvids]

Thanks dude, I was about to mention that xx

[@bangdon12]

Hi Steve, enjoy your channel, curious what is the beautiful speaker the HD 700 is on? Thank you, you may never see this:)

[@trilingualkid]

hd820...I love it.

[@scottl8089]

HD580's are 300ohm.

[@proffessasvids]

Nice one Scott xx

[@KeithMacRowland]

I use a Schitt Loki (4 band EQ) and make my HD598’s sound the way I want. Problem solved.

[@waltertomaszewski1083]

Aren't the HD414 headphones meant more for radio stations dj's/announcers/producers than home audiophiles? That might explain the huge midrange -- for use with spoken voice.

[@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac]

Walter Tomaszewski He HD 414 it was very much an audiophile headphone of its time. Some pros used it because it was light, but since it wasn’t a closed back it wasn’t really used by studio engineers

[@antoinep9733]

DJs like the (closed) Sennheiser HD-25.They are a cult item.

[@jonathansturm4163]

@@antoinep9733 Back in the 1980s I was a DJ at a local radio station. I used a successor to the HD414s, can't remember the model number. They were black with yellow earpads. Very comfortable...

[@ziioon_vinyl]

Hello, any advice for openback headphones for a beginner?

[@CHILE_TZ]

I have old HD 420 Sennheiser . Any one know which earcups from other models can fit to them ?

[@smalltalk.productions9977]

i had the 580. i wanted to love it but never did. any thoughts about grados? do you have a fav grado? i have a friend's son's graduation coming up and he is a wonderful music kid so i'm shopping for a headphone gift. thoughts?

[@SteveGuttenbergAudiophiliac]

My fave is my old RS-1 grado, for the gift Grado SR80 or SR125.

[@TYT695]

HD 595 is still my daily driver

[@darthdurkelthewise320]

To me the HD600 is a more appealing entry point to the Sennheiser headphones. The midrange alone is worth the price. It doesn’t work for everything and has a very small stage but those mids are very sweet. The HD650s were always too dark for my taste...All 3 times I’ve owned them (sigh).