The Sennheiser HD 599 are over-ear headphones intended for audiophiles. Their sound profile is slightly warm and smooth but well-balanced overall. By design, they aren't ideal for use outside quiet spaces, like at the office or during your commute, since they don't isolate you from ambient noise and leak a lot of audio. That said, they have a very comfortable fit and a wired design, with a couple of audio cables included, so they work well for long listening sessions at home or in the studio.
Our Verdict
The Sennheiser HD 599 are impressive for neutral sound. They lack a bit of low-bass, but overall they have a warm, well-balanced sound profile, with vocals and lead instruments that sound present and clear. Their open-back design helps to create an open, spacious-seeming soundstage. Some slight over-emphasis in high-bass and low-mids can make mixes sound boomy and muddy with some tracks. They also don't have a companion app that you can use to customize their sound.
- Lightweight and comfortable design.
- Good passive soundstage.
- Don't block out ambient sound, by design.
The Sennheiser HD 599 are poor for commute and travel. They block out virtually no ambient sound and leak a lot of audio, so your music is likely to bother people sitting near you on the bus. While they have a very comfortable fit, they aren't very portable and don't come with a case or pouch for protection.
- Lightweight and comfortable design.
- Don't block out ambient sound, by design.
- Leak a lot of sound.
The Sennheiser HD 599 are inadequate for sports and fitness use. They're comfortable but aren't intended for sports use and aren't stable enough to stay on your head during a workout or run. They may make you sweat more if you wear them during exercise, and although we don't test for it, they lack an IP rating for dust and water resistance, like most audiophile headphones.
- Lightweight and comfortable design.
- Don't block out ambient sound, by design.
- Leak a lot of sound.
The Sennheiser HD 599 are poor for office use. Because of their open-back design, they isolate you from almost no ambient sound and leak a lot of audio, so they aren't ideal for use in a shared space, like an office. They have a very comfortable fit, but their wired design means they lack useful Bluetooth features like multi-device or NFC pairing.
- Lightweight and comfortable design.
- Don't block out ambient sound, by design.
- Leak a lot of sound.
The Sennheiser HD 599 are wired gaming headphones, and you can't use them wirelessly.
The Sennheiser HD 599 are okay for wired gaming. You can plug their audio cable into a PC or console controller to receive audio. Since it's an analog connection, they have virtually no latency. Their well-balanced sound profile has a bit of extra boom that can help bring out sound effects in action-packed games, too. However, they don't have a microphone, so you can't use them to chat with your teammates. They also lack onboard controls.
- Lightweight and comfortable design.
- Virtually no latency because of analog connection.
- Don't block out ambient sound, by design.
- Leak a lot of sound.
The Sennheiser HD 599 don't have a microphone, so they aren't suitable for making phone calls.
Changelog
- Updated Aug 30, 2021: Updated review for accuracy and clarity.
- Updated Jun 29, 2021: Converted to Test Bench 1.5.
- Updated Feb 05, 2020: Converted to Test Bench 1.4.
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.1.
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Differences Between Sizes And Variants
The Sennheiser HD 599 come in one color, 'Ivory', which we tested. There's also an HD 599 SE or 'Special Edition' variant in 'Black'. Aside from the color, they seem to be identical, and we expect our result to be valid for that variant as well.
If you come across another variant or your headphones are different, please let us know in the discussions, and we'll update our review.
Popular Headphones Comparisons
The Sennheiser HD 599 are wired over-ear headphones intended for audiophiles. Their warm, well-balanced sound and spacious passive soundstage should please fans of neutral sound. However, like most open-back headphones, they lack some low-bass and aren't very versatile, since they leak a lot of audio and don't isolate you from background noise.
If you're looking for more options, see our recommendations for the best wired headphones, the best headphones for studio use, and the best audiophile headphones.
The Sennheiser HD 600 and Sennheiser HD 599 are very similar headphones in performance, and the HD 599 may offer better overall value for most users. Their sound profiles are fairly similar, but the HD 599 are noticeably more comfortable, deliver audio more consistently and don't feel as tight as the HD 600. On the other hand, they don't feel as well-built as the HD 600 and have a less stable fit on the head.
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO and the Sennheiser HD 599 are both great headphones for audiophile use. The HD 599 are more comfortable for long listening sessions, while the DT 990 PRO are noticeably better-built and feel more durable, but have a tighter fit. Also, while both their sound profiles are very similar, the HD 599 may sound slightly more open than the DT 990 PRO. The DT 990 PRO come with a non-detachable coiled cable while the HD 599 come with two thin and detachable audio cables.
The Philips SHP9500 and the Sennheiser HD 599 are very comfortable headphones that are great for neutral listening. The Sennheiser are a bit sleeker and a bit more stable to wear. They're also more consistent in their audio delivery. Depending on your tastes, you may prefer the brighter voicing of the Philips compared to the mid-rangey Sennheiser sound profile. The Philips also have a more open and spacious sound.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x and the Sennheiser HD 599 are both great-sounding headphones, but they have different strengths. The Audio-Technica pack a bit more bass, which is due to their closed-back design. They're a better option than the Sennheiser if you're looking for great-sounding headphones to bring on the go. On the other hand, the open-back design of the Sennheiser is better suited for quiet environments, and they are very comfortable for long listening sessions.
The Sennheiser HD 599 are marginally better audiophile headphones than the Sennheiser HD 598, but both are great for neutral sound and you may prefer either. They're nearly identical in terms of comfort and build quality. The HD 599 sound a bit better, with a less underemphasized bass response, but it's a small difference and may not be noticeable for all listeners. The HD 599 also seem to isolate the wearer better than the HD 598, but neither of them isolate you from very much noise since they’re open-back headphones.
Both the Sennheiser HD 599 and the Philips SHP9600 are open-back, comfortable headphones with long detachable cables and tuned for casual use. Depending on your priorities, you might prefer one or the other. The Sennheiser have a more stable fit and better build quality. The Philips keep costs down with a cheaper and more plasticky build, but they're well-matched with a consistent frequency response, so you might prefer them for their value.
The Sennheiser HD 599 and the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO are both impressive audiophile headphones, and you may prefer either. The Sennheiser are open-back, so they deliver less bass but have an otherwise very balanced, clear and open sound. The Beyerdynamic are closed-back, so their sound profile can differ slightly from person to person. They generally get much more bass but can also sound sharp.
The Philips Fidelio X2HR are slightly better open-back headphones for neutral sound than the Sennheiser HD 599. The X2HR look and feel better built and have a slightly better-balanced sound profile. On the other hand, the Sennheiser are more comfortable and feel somewhat more stable on the head.
The Sennheiser HD 599 are slightly better headphones for neutral sound than the Sennheiser HD 650. The HD 599 are more comfortable, their sound profile is better-balanced and neutral, and their passive soundstage is slightly more natural-sounding and wide. However, the HD 650 feel a bit better built and their audio cable is much longer.
The Sennheiser HD 599 are better audiophile headphones for most people than the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X 2013. The Sennheiser have less low-bass roll-off, less intense presence across the mid-range, and a much better-balanced treble response. They should also be more comfortable for most, although the Audio-Technica are more lightweight and the unique headband design can help relieve pressure during long listening sessions.
The Sennheiser HD 599 and the Beyerdynamic DT 880 are both great critical listening headphones if you like a neutral sound, but they have different sound profiles. The Sennheiser sound warmer, but also muddier, while the Beyerdynamic have a brighter but also harsher sound. The Sennheiser are also more comfortable for longer listening sessions, but the Beyerdynamic feel much more durable.
The Sennheiser HD 599 and the Sennheiser HD 6XX are fairly evenly matched headphones, and you may prefer either. The 599 are much more comfortable and have a more open sound, but their sound may be a bit muddy to some given the bump in their low-mid range. On the other hand, the 6XX have a more stable fit, a better build quality, and a more accurate mid-range response. That said, there isn't a huge difference between the two sound profiles, and either pair is a great option if you're looking for headphones for neutral sound.
While the Sennheiser HD 599 and the Drop + Sennheiser/EPOS PC38X are both great headphones for detailed listening, the Drop are specifically designed for wired gaming. Their boom mic records your voice clearly, even in moderately noisy environments. These headphones are also better built and have volume and mic controls. However, the HD 599 are more comfortable.
The Sennheiser HD 599 and the Sennheiser HD 660 S are very similar over-ear headphones. Despite both being open-backs, the HD 599 have a much more speaker-like passive soundstage performance, as well as a bass and treble response that more closely resembles our target Harman-based curve. This makes the HD 599 a bit better for audiophiles looking for a neutral sound, They're also more comfortable and breathable. On the other hand, the 660 S have a much better build quality and a more stable fit on your head.
The Sennheiser HD 599 and the Sennheiser HD 58X Jubilee are very similar headphones with very small differences. The HD 58X have a slightly more accurate sound profile, but the soundstage of the HD 599 seems to be somewhat more open-sounding. However, the HD 599 are noticeably more comfortable to wear for long periods.
The Sennheiser HD 599 are better over-ears for neutral sound than the Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX. The Sennheiser are more comfortable, can deliver audio more consistently, and have a more neutral sound profile. They also come with more accessories, like a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter. However, the Drop + Sennheiser have significantly better build quality, and their passive soundstage performance is better.
The Sennheiser HD 599 and the Beats Solo Pro have different strengths, and you may prefer either one. The Sennheiser are open-back over-ears designed for audiophiles. They're more comfortable and have a more neutral, open, and spacious passive soundstage. However, the Beats are better suited for casual use. They have an ANC system that can block out more background noise, a wireless design, and an integrated mic so that you can take calls when you're on the go.
We've upgraded our Headphones Test Bench to 2.0! This update brings several key changes to our tests and usages, making it easier than ever to interpret our sound results based on your personal preferences. You'll also find a brand-new interactive graph tool featuring multiple targets (including our own!) for you to explore and compare.
For a full breakdown, check out our changelog, which includes detailed commentary from our test designer explaining the rationale behind our update.
We'd also love to hear your thoughts: your feedback helps us keep improving, so join us in the comments!
Test Results
The Sennheiser HD 599 have a similar design to the Sennheiser HD 598, with better padding and a more premium look and feel. The ear cups are also a bit different, with more metal around the cups but cheaper-feeling plastic grilles. Apart from the silver branding on the HD 599, it's difficult to distinguish them from the HD 598 at first glance due to the similarity in their design. They come in 'Ivory' or a special edition 'Black'.
These are very comfortable headphones. They have large oval ear cups that are well-padded and should fit comfortably around most listeners' ears. The padding is covered with a soft material that feels nice against your skin. The headband is also amply padded and not too tight on the head. These headphones shouldn't cause fatigue, even when you're wearing them for hours on end.
These are decently breathable headphones. They trap less heat against your ears than a lot of closed-back headphones. They aren't intended for sports use, and you may sweat more if you wear them while exercising.
The Sennheiser HD599 have poor portability. They're bulky and don't fold, so they're cumbersome to carry around without a bag. Unfortunately, they don't come with a carrying case, meaning that they may get scratched or damaged if you toss them into a bag or backpack, which is slightly disappointing.
The Sennheiser HD599 have a decent build quality. They feel about as well-built as the Sennheiser HD 598, although their headband is a bit different since it's covered with a more premium leather coating. They also have more metal accents on the ear cups. However, the frame still feels weak compared to some other headphones, and the hinges feel like a weak point in the build. If you're looking for better built Sennheiser headphones, consider the Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX.
These headphones are adequately stable. They should easily stay in place during casual listening sessions. Their cable is detachable unless you lock it into the ear cups, and you can pull it out if it gets hooked on something instead of yanking the headphones off your head. However, they aren't intended for workouts and aren't as tight as other models from Sennheiser, like the Sennheiser HD 560S. The ear cups can sway a lot and slip off your ears if you use them during exercise.
- Sennheiser HD 599 headphones
- 1/8" TRS audio cable
- 1/4" TRS audio cable
- 1/4" to 1/8" adapter
- Manual
Their sound profile is slightly smooth and warm but overall well-balanced. Their open-back design means they lack some low-bass, but their exaggerated high-bass response adds extra warmth and boom. Some mixes may sound slightly muddy, but the well-balanced mid and treble ranges ensure instruments and lead vocals are present and clear. Unfortunately, they don't have a companion app with an EQ or presets to customize their sound.
The Sennheiser HD599 have excellent frequency response consistency. Their bass and treble delivery is much more consistent than the Sennheiser HD 598's and doesn't vary too much depending on the headphones' fit, seal, and positioning. You don't need to worry too much about adjusting them to get the same sound each time you use them.
The Sennheiser HD599 have good bass accuracy. Like most open-back headphones, they lack low-bass, so mixes are missing thump and rumble. The mid-bass range is neutral, so music has the right amount of body and warmth. However, overemphasis in the high-bass range adds boominess.
The Sennheiser HD 599 have excellent mid accuracy. The mid to high-mids are very well-balanced and neutral. However, the bump in low-mid, which is the continuation overemphasis in the high-bass range, makes mixes slightly muddy.
The Sennheiser HD 599 have excellent treble accuracy. The low and mid-treble responses are very neutral, so instruments are clear and well-articulated, while sibilants like cymbals and S and T sounds are present and bright.
The Sennheiser HD 599 have good peaks and dips performance. There's a peak from the mid-bass to low-mid that adds boom and muddiness, while a dip in the high-mid somewhat weakens instruments and lead vocals. There are also some peaks in the low-treble that add harshness to some instruments. The biggest peak is in the mid-treble range and makes sibilants like cymbals seem piercing.
The Sennheiser HD 599 have a great imaging performance. The group delay falls below the audibility threshold for the entire range, resulting in tight bass and transparent treble reproduction. The L/R drivers are well-matched in amplitude and phase response, and even though there's a small mismatch in the phase response's treble range, it shouldn't be audible. However, they're also slightly mismatched in frequency response, which may cause holes in the stereo image at certain frequencies. Please note that these results are only valid for our unit, and your experience may vary.
These headphones have a good passive soundstage performance. Thanks to their open-back design, they create a very open and spacious passive soundstage. Sound is likely to seem to come from inside your head rather than speakers in the room around you.
These headphones have a good weighted harmonic distortion performance. There's some distortion present at very high listening volumes, but it shouldn't be very noticeable with real-life content. Audio reproduction is mostly clean and pure.
These are the settings used to test the Sennheiser HD 599. Our results are only valid using this configuration.
These headphones are bad at noise isolation, but it's by design. Like most open-back headphones, they block out virtually no ambient sound, except a little bit of high-pitched noise like the hum of an A/C unit.
These headphones have a poor leakage performance, which is typical of open-back headphones. They leak a lot of audio at high volumes, so people nearby can hear your music even in moderately noisy environments. They aren't ideal for use in a shared space, like an office.
These wired headphones come with a detachable 1/8" TRS audio cable, a longer 1/4" TRS cable, and a 1/8" to 1/4" adapter.