Sennheiser HD650 vs. Grado RS2e - Two takes on a $500 open backed dynamic headphone

So similar yet so very different. Consistent topology and price but different in every way. This review hopes to uncover whether you're more of a Grado person or belong to the cult of Sennheiser.

[@desmo8755]

Interesting to go from one to the other immediately. From Senn to Grado the Grado sounds harsh. But then you get used to that and change back to Senn and it sounds like a veiled mess. Senn for relaxed listening, Grado for jazz, classical, detail. Love the one you’re with.

[@jamiesmith6838]

I have both. I sum them up in two words: The HD600 - Boring. The RS2e - Exciting. I understand in this comparo, it's the HD650. I prefer the HD660s as being the best of the 600 series, & closest to the target of "excitement".

[@SineCraftAudio]

Great summary!

[@user-kn4to6ii5s]

I have Grado hemp agree with you

[@jamiesmith6838]

@@user-kn4to6ii5s Initially, the original HD-600 needs and benefit greatly with a relatively simple modding. 1- remove foam damping from behind driver. 2- plug center hole with simple IEM "rubber" buds. (Same direction as ear canal) 3- replace original cable with new Senn HD-660 thicker cable. 4- replace original velour ear cushions with perforated leather. Walla! New life & vigor. Now the original HD-600 has secured its title & is possibly the best value in HD headphones. A real steal for its price!

[@edgerteed7070]

HAD MY GRADO RS-1s 14YRS, A FRIEND HAS THE SENNHEIER 650s AND HIS PHONES ON MY SCHIIT ASGAURD WITH MULTIBIT CARD ARE A TOTAL JOKE , THE GRADOS ARE SO GREAT IN SO MANY WAYS, BASS TIGHT, MIDS GREAT , HIGHS CRISP, GREAT OPEN SOUNDSTAGE....

[@imabeliever85]

Good take. I agree, no winner per se. They both are winners in their own right. I would say the 650 is richer and warmer and easier on the ears while the RS2e with stock pads by comparison is livelier and clearer and more dynamic

[@christopherwall444]

I have Grado RS2e….excellent sound…good volume. I’ve had one ear cup go out twice…and it took forever to get them back..Currently wondering the Grado vs Apple beats @ $500 approx…

[@Marian1st.]

I have HD660S and SR325s. Grado sounds better, but a little bit too harsh. So I’m looking to get SR 1 or 2.

[@hirschkuh1982]

Do you have a RS2 now? I have the 325e and i get the RS2e. Will it be a step up or wasted money?

[@Marian1st.]

@@hirschkuh1982I don’t. I got the HD660S2. Sounds a little better than the 660S. From what I see, RS2e, is a step up in clarity, but overall, not an upgrade to SR325, because it has a different sound signature. Definitely worth having both. RS2 is still on my list. If you get it, let us know your thoughts.

[@daviewavie112]

Sennheisers really need an OTL tube amp to shine. Grados do better with hybrid tube amps.

[@Mazak23]

“Grey Doh” like “Play Doh” not “Grah Doh.”