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

Part five of the Quest for the Best Competitive Audio. Taking a look at the Sennheiser HD800s.
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#ApexLegends #Counterstrike #Gaming
Timecodes
0:00 - Intro
0:30 - HD560s / HarmonicDyne Zeus
2:55 - HD800s
3:50 - Apex Legends Tips
5:10 - More Apex Gameplay
7:08 - Result of Testing
10:32 - Conclusion

[@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!!!

[@paullusty]

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

[@FreshReviewsYT]

ty!!

[@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

[@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.

[@dario4496]

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

[@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.

[@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.

[@thevalorantguy8615]

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

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@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!

[@g32211]

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

[@FreshReviewsYT]

=D

[@vanluongc1116]

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

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@Christe88]

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

[@the12gaugeshotty]

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

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Glad I could help!

[@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

[@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!!!

[@bobjoe9122]

Nice finally done with that vid

[@cyberpunk2042]

Great work with all these videos, keep it up!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@jonathantran5821]

Love this series!

[@FreshReviewsYT]

ty!

[@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.

[@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!!!!

[@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

[@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!

[@gundum1o1]

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

[@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.

[@WonderingKev]

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

[@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

[@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 👌

[@Brandon3000CA]

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

[@carbonatedsalad4677]

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

[@rickgear2579]

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

[@kamsole]

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

[@FreshReviewsYT]

hahaha!

[@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!

[@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?

[@GraybeardGiffTech]

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

[@FreshReviewsYT]

ty!

[@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!

[@Karim-ik5ij]

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

[@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

[@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!

[@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.

[@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… 😉

[@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.

[@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.

[@wyattwilliams4813]

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

[@BishieBishie]

Always happy when my boys the Tygrs get a mention

[@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.

[@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.

[@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

[@chrisgg]

Did you use the iFi Zen Dac v2 to power the HD800s? Or what is your go to AMP/Dac for gaming in general?

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@rainxx3207]

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

[@blank-jo1xp]

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!

[@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

[@jan.tovarnak]

Which headphones / headset would you consider to perform best in terms of positional audio specifically in CSGO if price is not an issue? I'm currently using Audeze Penrose but it's not exactly comfortable headset and I'm thinking of going back to wired headphones, just can't decide which ones. I was thinking about things like Audeze LCD-GX (this mostly because it's an actual headset), Audio-Technica ATH-R70x, Sennheiser HD800S or AKG K712 Pro but there is so much to choose from... I've seen your K712 Pro review and you mentioned it is not a good choice for CSGO. I'm also worried that HD800 S might not be suited to fairly small "soundstage" of CSGO, where most of the action happens close-quarter. Thank you in advance!

[@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.

[@coldliferp7250]

Hey Fresh, Is it necessary to buy an AMP or Sound card to get the most out of these Headsets?

[@TerrifyiN_]

Hey man, what dac/amp are you using? I’m new to the club as well and I want a cheap but good enough dac amo to run them

[@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 🙏🏽

[@xrhythmsx]

what cable did you use to drive them on your mayflower ark ? My sennheisers came with cables too big for my ark

[@reckulurn3038]

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

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Not yet!

[@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.

[@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

[@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

[@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.

[@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.

[@fliptout86]

I’ve had my hd800 original for a long time now hearing your reviews I bought the hd560 and just yesterday I received my zues haha and I’m happy to have them lol thank you. Quick question though do you burn them in?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yea, always a burn in period! I wish I could try the 800 haha

[@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 🙂

[@kalkydra]

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

[@FreshReviewsYT]

At the time I was using the a90d and d90se

[@salvyballacc]

Can you do a review on the Moondrop Snows please

[@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

[@razberry5000]

Nice review! Audio is really hard to review so it's nice to hear the opinion of a top level player :) I went for the HD660s 2 years ago and even though the price tag was hefty, I don't regret the purchase for a single second. I use this thing multiple hours a day and it never bothers me or becomes uncomfortable. What's your take on dac/amp Fresh? I currently have my sennheiser gsx 1200 dac going to a schiit magni 3 to power them. Dunno if there is something better on the market these days...

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Thanks! I am going to be testing a few more amps/dacs in the next few weeks and will circle back

[@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

[@markus301]

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

[@vanluongc1116]

thank you! Could you try the Philips Fidelio X2HR

[@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?

[@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!

[@timmasters4893]

Any more reviews coming out on headphones? Maybe some hifimans?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Yes

[@parkersgarage4216]

have you tested the hd 660s? if so how do those compare to the 560s for gaming as well as the 800s? im looking at buying a new headset and im looking into the 660s and the 560s. cant seem to figure out which is best for competitive gaming. great series btw as i just came across your vids.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

560s

[@malvinmanihuruk2755]

please i need help. I currently have the Hifiman sundara. i really want a better headphones, what are the options that has better audio for music than the sundara but also better for fps games like valorant

[@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.

[@synkra4836]

Is it 100 % necesary to have a dac and amp to be able to use the hd560s ?

[@hectormanuelgomezmedina9387]

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

[@7sukuyomi]

You should try the hd58x next.

[@Nahar282]

Did you have a chance to try the new EPOS H6PRO Headset? Im curious how it would stand in your ladder :)

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Not yet!

[@AlcyPC]

Is there a setup video on how to connect this to a pc (referring to the 800S)

[@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

[@mattlaz1234]

What made you choose the 560S over the HarmonicDyne Zeus in the end even though you said the Zeus sound better here?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Tuning and competitive qualities are two different things. 560s take the edge for competitive gameplay

[@Cslav]

Subbed!! I can definitely can tell this is not a paid promotion and a real review. I do have a question on your dac/amp setup. What do you personally use? I’ve heard that the gsx 1000 paired with an amp is the best for surround sound but saw you were using the mayflower arc 2 in your older videos. Do you use any sort of surround sound software? Windows 10 has one for free now I think. Also I’ve heard that stereo sound has come a long was and so called 7.1 surround sound is a gimmick and just marketing. Can you provide any input on this? Thanks

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Thanks so much! I love the mayflower but it might not be the best to drive more demanding headphones like the HD800s. I am trying the ifi zen dac v2 now and it’s pretty solid value! I did like that the mayflower had a mic input though because some sennheiser headphones, including the HD560s, have boom mic cables that connect right to the headphone. I honestly suggest staying away from fake surround sound. Good stereo setups in my opinion blow fake 7.1 away. I have heard some great sounding 7.1 headsets though

[@Cslav]

@@FreshReviewsYT I’m too broke to buy HD800s anyways lol. I was planning on getting the 560s or zeus. I already have a blue yeti mic that hooks up via usb. I’ve looked at the specs at they don’t seem too hard to drive. Any other dac and amp combos you would recommend for purely sound quality since I don’t need the mic input?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@Cslav If you do not need the mic input the ifi zen dac v2 for the price is fantastic paired with the 560s. I just splurged and bought a topping l50/e50 ensemble... it is beautiful but $499. I have not personally tested the schiit fulla 3/4 or the Schiit Hel, but I hear those are really good as well. The ifi Zen dac v1 should be very good for them as well

[@Cslav]

@@FreshReviewsYT thanks for the help I appreciate it. It would be a good video idea to compare all the dacs you got I’m sure a bunch of people got the same question as me

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@Cslav Absolutely! Actually have a pretty extensive video coming soon!

[@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 ❤

[@MrVic510]

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

[@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

[@udopiarecords]

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?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

You can but there won’t be enough power to get to a decent volume

[@mt8009]

Absolutely love your videos they've helped me immensely. Does having a headset like this go through a Mk2 increase audio latency or anything? Also, would you recommend the Mk2 or like magni/modi stack?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Hey! No increase in audio latency. If you want something that can power a more needy headphone I would go with the stack. The ifi zen dac v2 has a nice bit of power as well which is an amp/dac in one

[@mt8009]

@@FreshReviewsYT thanks for the response. I am actually going to be getting the hd800s. I was just wondering whether to get the Mk2 or the thx combo for the headset. As for a mic do you primarily just have a standalone that goes through the Mk2? Haha sorry for so many beginner questions. I've quit console and fully committing to the PC comp scene. I absolutely love CSGO and Apex.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@mt8009 id probably get something more powerful than the mayflower. If getting the 800s the magni modi should be good. I recently purchased a topping l50/e50 ensemble and love it. Also, I use a usb microphone currently

[@mt8009]

@@FreshReviewsYT I've chosen to go with the modmic wireless. Also, did you just use the stock cable or did you buy like a custom balanced one?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@mt8009 Stock cable so far

[@bobjoe9122]

Nice clips

[@FreshReviewsYT]

Ty!

[@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.

[@soulja617]

Yo bro would you say the HD800s are good for story mode games as well ? Like the last of us 2 and stuff like that to get you immersed in the story ???

[@FreshReviewsYT]

it wouldn’t be my pick

[@sedraniM]

Love this series! Are you planning on making a Dac Amp Series? Or is it less important than the Headphones?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

The amp/dac combo is VERY important. I have a few more on the way to test out and then I am going to do a round up!

[@sedraniM]

@@FreshReviewsYT Great! Im really interested in seeing a good and cheaper option than the Mayflower Arc Mk2!

[@zahitemremetin606]

@@FreshReviewsYT just wondering, are you keeping HD800S?

[@FreshReviewsYT]

@@zahitemremetin606 negative

[@zahitemremetin606]

@@FreshReviewsYT sad

[@Roxet11]

Hey man! Have you tried the sennheiser hd 599? If you have, compared with the 560s which is better for gaming? Im between this 2.

[@FreshReviewsYT]

I haven’t yet. I may try them out though!