Our Verdict
The Sennheiser HD 598 Cs are a bit more versatile than the open variation since they block more ambient noise and leak less. They also still deliver a good sound quality that's great for casual and critical listeners although some critical listeners may prefer the open sound of the regular HD 598. However, even with the improved isolation, they're not the best headphones to use in loud environments.
- Great audio reproduction.
- Sturdy build quality.
- Below-average isolation.
- Slightly bulky design.
- Bass delivery varies significantly across users. Sensitive to glasses.
Suitable for neutral listening. Although, they're a bit less comfortable than the open HD 598, for long listening sessions, and also have less soundstage. The Sennheiser HD 598 Cs still deliver a well-balanced frequency response with better bass, thanks to the closed design, and a moderately flat mid-range that caters well to instruments and vocals. They do not sound as open and airy as the HD 598, but the treble range is still well above average for most headphones.
Below-average for commuting. They do not isolate well in loud environments. However, they do have a control scheme compared to the HD 598 which makes them a bit better to travel with.
Not meant for sports. They're bulky and unstable to run with.
Below-average for office use. They don't isolate well enough for a loud work environment, and although they don't leak as much as the open HD 598, your colleagues may still hear what you are listening to at higher volumes.
Changelog
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.1.
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.
- Updated Feb 16, 2018: Converted to Test Bench 1.2.
- Updated Oct 02, 2017: The microphone has been tested with our new methodology, as explained here
Check Price
Popular Headphones Comparisons
See our recommendations for the best over-ear headphones, the best wired headphones, and the best audiophile headphones.
The Sennheiser HD 598 Cs and the AKG K371 are very similarly performing over-ear studio headphones. While the Sennheiser have a more stable fit with in-line controls, the AKG have more accurate sound reproduction and leak much less audio.
Our How We Test Headphones article takes you behind the scenes in our lab. You'll learn how we choose and purchase products and dive into the details of our review philosophy, from testing and scoring to writing and editing.
You can also discover how we produce recommendations like this one so that you can find the best headphones (or earbuds!) for your needs.
Test Results
for pictures & test results
for pictures & test results
for pictures & test results
for pictures & test results
