The Sennheiser HD 800 S are excellent sounding headphones for critical listening. They're comfortable and have a sturdy, durable build quality but like most open back critical listening models, they're not very versatile. They're not designed for outdoors or to use casually, but plugged into an amp, they deliver an exceptional listening experience.
Our Verdict
These are great for neutral listening. The Sennheiser HD 800 S have some of the best audio reproduction we've measured. They have a well-balanced mid-range that isn't too forward sounding with instruments and vocals. They also have a good amount of bass to cater well to most genres of music, although they will feel somewhat lacking in low-end thump and rumble compared to the HiFiMan Ananda or HiFiMan Sundara. Overall, their spacious, accurate stereo image reproduction makes them one of the best options for neutral listeners. You can also check out our review of the Stax SR-L300, which have a great open sound and electrostatic drivers instead of dynamic ones like the HD800S.
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Excellent audio reproduction.
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Sturdy, durable build quality.
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Comfortable design.
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Designed to be used in a well-isolated room.
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Sensitive to ambient noise, by design.
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Bulky and heavy.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S aren't suitable for commuting. The open-back ear cups don't block any ambient noise and leak a lot. They're not portable and don't have a control scheme for mobile devices.
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Excellent audio reproduction.
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Sturdy, durable build quality.
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Comfortable design.
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Designed to be used in a well-isolated room.
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Sensitive to ambient noise, by design.
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Bulky and heavy.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S aren't meant for sports. They're heavy and require an amp, meaning you won't be using them outside anytime soon.
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Excellent audio reproduction.
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Sturdy, durable build quality.
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Comfortable design.
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Designed to be used in a well-isolated room.
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Sensitive to ambient noise, by design.
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Bulky and heavy.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are sub-par for office use. Unless you work alone or in an isolated office, the leakage level will be too bothersome for those around you. Also, the open-back design does not block any noise, so you will hear your environment fairly easily, even when listening to music at higher-than-average volumes.
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Excellent audio reproduction.
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Sturdy, durable build quality.
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Comfortable design.
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Designed to be used in a well-isolated room.
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Sensitive to ambient noise, by design.
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Bulky and heavy.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are mediocre for gaming. The Sennheiser HD 800S are comfortable, sound great, and have a low-latency wired design. However, they don't have a microphone for voice chat when gaming and no customization options, which are typical for most gaming headsets. Also, they don't have the convenience of wireless design or multiple connection options for an optimized experience on Xbox One or PS4.
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Excellent audio reproduction.
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Sturdy, durable build quality.
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Comfortable design.
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Designed to be used in a well-isolated room.
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Sensitive to ambient noise, by design.
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Bulky and heavy.
- 8.5 Neutral Sound
- 4.0 Commute/Travel
- 5.5 Sports/Fitness
- 4.7 Office
- 4.8 Wireless Gaming
- 6.9 Wired Gaming
- 1.7 Phone Calls
- Updated Jan 11, 2023: We've updated this review's text to remove data values that are no longer representative of our current testing.
- 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.
- Updated Nov 21, 2019: Converted to Test Bench 1.3.
- Updated Feb 16, 2018: Converted to Test Bench 1.2.
- Updated Aug 10, 2017: Converted to Test Bench 1.1.
- Updated Mar 01, 2017: Converted to Test Bench 1.0.
- Updated May 04, 2016: Review published.
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Compared To Other Headphones
The Sennheiser HD800S have an outstanding, reference-quality audio reproduction but are not designed for everyday use. They have a great, evenly balanced sound that caters well to most tracks and music genres and they sound more neutral than the Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX. They're well built, comfortable and feel durable too. However, their open-back design leaks a lot and will disturb the people around you. That said, they have an excellent passive soundstage and stereo image reproduction but they're also considerably pricier than most of the competing headphones below which may not be worth it depending on your use case. See our recommendations for the best studio headphones, the best open-back headphones, the best headphones for music and the best DJ headphones.
The HiFiMan Arya are slightly better headphones for neutral sound than the Sennheiser HD 800 S, but you may like one over the other, depending on your preferences. The HiFiMan have a planar magnetic transducer, which some users may prefer, can deliver bass and treble more consistently, and can reproduce a bit more low-bass. However, the Sennheiser are still well-suited for neutral sound. They feel better-built and come with a carrying pouch as well as an extra audio cable and a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better headphones for neutral sound than the Focal Clear Mg. While both headphones are very comfortable, the Sennheiser have a more neutral sound profile, and a larger, more spacious soundstage. However, the Focal have a better build quality.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better critical listening headphones than the Sennheiser HD 660 S. They are more comfortable, noticeably better-built, and their sound quality is also superior. There is also a big difference in soundstage, in which the HD 800 S are also superior. However, the HD 660 S are way less expensive and may offer better overall value for their performance.
The HiFiMan Ananda are very close in performance to the Sennheiser HD 800 S. The Sennheiser have a better, more durable build quality, although not by much. They also look a bit more premium and deliver a slightly more open-sounding audio reproduction, but that may also be because they sound a tad brighter. On the other hand, the HiFiMan have a good, well-balanced sound, with a bit more bass than the Sennheiser, thanks to their planar magnetic drivers. They also offer a slightly better value than the Sennheiser, but HiFiMan headphones are somewhat prone to durability issues.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S and the HiFiMan Edition XS are both excellent audiophile headphones with slight differences. The Sennheiser headphones have dynamic transducers, are more comfortable and well-built. They also have a slightly better mid accuracy, which ensures that vocals and lead instruments sound clear, accurate, and natural, while their passive soundstage creates a more out-of-head audio experience. In comparison, the HiFiMan are planar magnetic headphones. Thanks to their design, they're able to reproduce bass more accurately. They also deliver audio even more consistently than the Sennheiser.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better performing headphones than the Sennheiser HD 650. The HD 800 S are more comfortable for long listening sessions, have better build quality, and are better-balanced. However, they're a hefty investment and require a powerful amplifier to drive them.
The Sennheiser HD 800S are better for neutral sound than the HiFiMan Sundara 2020. The headphones have similar, well-balanced sound profiles, but the Sennheiser have a significantly better soundstage performance. They're also much more breathable, more comfortable, and they have a better build quality. However, the HiFiMan come with a 1/8" TRS audio cable, while the Sennheiser come with a 1/4" cable, meaning you need an adaptor to use them with devices like smartphones and consoles.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better open-back headphones for neutral sound listening than the Philips Fidelio X2HR. The Sennheiser feel quite a bit more durable, are more stable on the head, and are much more consistent among various users or reseats. They also have a slightly better-balanced treble range, though this could vary by adjusting them on your head. On the other hand, the Sennheiser are fairly lacking in bass, and the Philips have a more accurate and natural low-to-mid bass range. The Sennheiser also require a powerful amplifier to run them and are considerably more expensive than the Philips.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are a better critical listening headphone than the Sennheiser HD 820. The HD 800 S have a better-balanced sound that is more neutral and even with instruments, more consistent with their bass and slightly more detailed on lead vocals and instruments. They also have a larger soundstage thanks to their open-back design. They're also a bit more breathable since they are open, so your ears won't get as warm during longer listening sessions. On the other hand, the HD 820 have a slightly more polished build quality, although they are very close in design. Also, since they have closed back ear cups, they leak a little less, prevent more ambient noise from seeping into your audio, and have a bit more bass on average.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better-performing audiophile headphones than the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO. While the Beyerdynamics pack a bit more bass, the Sennheisers sound less sharp while still creating an immersive soundstage. The Sennheiser are also more comfortable to wear for longer listening sessions, although some may find their ear cups a bit large.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are much better audiophile headphones than the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO, although they require quite the investment. With the right setup, the Sennheiser have a remarkably well-balanced sound signature with a spacious, natural soundstage. They need a powerful amplifier, though, and lack a bit of bass. The Beyerdynamic don't sound quite as immersive, but they get more bass and are a lot more affordable.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better headphones for neutral sound than the Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX. While both headphones are very comfortable and well-built, the HD 800 S have a more balanced and neutral sound profile, which some users may prefer. Their bass is more extended too, they can reproduce audio more consistently, and they come with a lot more accessories such as a 1/4" to 1/8" adapter and a carrying pouch.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are slightly better critical listening headphones than the Audeze LCD2-Classic. The Sennheiser are more comfortable and lighter than the Audeze. They also have a more neutral sound, a larger soundstage, and a slightly better easier to use design overall. The Audeze, on the other hand, have a slightly better build quality and pack a bit more bass with their planar magnetic drivers. They also do not sound as bright as the Sennheiser, which may be a negative for some but also makes them a good choice for audiophiles a bit more sensitive to high frequencies.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better headphones for neutral sound than the Philips Fidelio X3. The Sennheiser are better-built, and they have a more stable fit. They have a more neutral, balanced sound profile, and better passive soundstage performance.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better audiophile headphones than the Meze Empyrean. While both headphones are comfortable, the Sennheiser have a more neutral sound profile with a more accurate treble response and a significantly more immersive passive soundstage. However, the Meze are better built and come with a hard carrying case.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better headphones for neutral sound than the Beyerdynamic T1 2nd Generation 2016. The Sennheiser are more comfortable and their sound profile is more neutral, especially in the treble range, which some users may prefer. They have a remarkable soundstage, which can be attributed to their fully open-back design. The Sennheiser are also better-built than the Beyerdynamic, but they don’t come with a hard case like the Beyerdynamic for when you want to travel with them.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better headphones than the Focal Elear, but are also way more expensive. The Sennheiser are one of the best-sounding headphones we’ve reviewed so far. The Sennheiser have more accurate reproduction of the treble range than the Elear and also have a better speaker-like soundstage. On the other hand, the very large cups of the Sennheiser might be too big for some and could create gaps. Also, the Focal are slightly better-built headphones and feel sturdier.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better headphones for neutral sound than the HiFiMan ANANDA-BT Wireless. The Sennheiser have a better-balanced, more neutral audio reproduction, and better peaks and dips performance. The Sennheisers' soundstage is also more open and spacious, creating a more immersive listening experience. That being said, the HiFiMan are more versatile headphones. Unlike the Sennheiser, they can be used wirelessly. The HiFiMan also come with a detachable boom mic and a hard carrying case.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better headphones for neutral sound than the Philips SHP9600. Both pairs of open-back headphones have a balanced sound profile, but the Sennheiser have a more neutral sound profile. They're also better-built, and they have a more stable fit. That said, some listeners may prefer the Philips' more extended bass, and the extra boom and punch in their bass range. The Philips also have a more comfortable fit.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better critical listening headphones than the Stax SR-L300. They are more comfortable for longer listening sessions, and their build is durable and doesn’t feel as flimsy as the Stax. They also pack more bass, while still having great mid and treble range performance. Their 1/4” TRS connection is also more versatile. You will also need an amp and energizer to drive the Stax correctly. On the other hand, the Stax still have great audio reproduction and are significantly cheaper than the Sennheiser.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S are better for neutral sound than the Beats Solo Pro Wireless. The Sennheiser are wired headphones with a very well-balanced, neutral sound profile. Their passive soundstage is perceived as very wide and spacious, thanks in part to their open-back design. They're also better built and more comfortable. On the other hand, the Beats are wireless headphones with a closed-back design. They're more versatile since they leak much less audio, have onboard controls and an integrated mic, and have an ANC feature that does a great job of isolating you from ambient sound.
Test Results
The Sennheiser HD 800S are critical-listening-focused headphones, and it shows in their design. The massive open-back ear cups and headband are reinforced with metal and high-grade plastic. They're also both padded with a suede-like material which makes these headphones look and feel premium. They're bulkier than most of the other critical listening headphones we've tested like the HiFiMan Sundara or the HD 700, which may work for some but maybe a bit too cumbersome for others.
The Sennheiser HD800S deliver a comfortable listening experience. They have large, spacious ear cups, they're not too tight on the head and they're well-padded with a suede-like material that feels good on the skin. Unfortunately, they're a little on the heavy side and ear cups are so big that they may not be comfortable for all listeners, especially on smaller heads. If you're looking for more comfortable open-back headphones, check out the Philips SHP9600.
The Sennheiser HD 800S don't have any buttons or controls.
These headphones have spacious open-back ear cups that don't obstruct as much airflow as typical over-ears. They will keep your ears relatively cool even during long listening sessions, although they won't be as breathable as some on-ears or in-ear models.
The Sennheiser HD800S are big and bulky headphones that don't fold into a more compact format for transport. They're not designed to be portable and will take up a lot of space in a backpack and would barely fit in a regular handbag. The box they come in can be used as a substitute for a case. Unfortunately, it's far too large and cumbersome for regular use.
These headphones don't come with a case. You can use the box that they're packaged in as a case. Unfortunately, it's more than double the size of the headphones and not practical to carry around unless you have a dedicated bag or suitcase. Also, the pouch that comes included in the box is for the cables and not the headphones. For open-back headphones that come with a case, take a look at the Focal Clear Mg or the semi-open Beyerdynamic T1 2nd Generation.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S have an excellent build quality and feel a bit more premium than the HiFiMan Arya. They have a sturdy metal frame and a high-grade plastic blend that strengthens the headband. The large ear cups are decently dense, and the padding materials feel high-end. However, the hinges/yokes are not the most durable. The pin that keeps the joints of the ear cups in place can sometimes come loose, and overall they have a lot more plastic in their build quality than their price range would suggest.
These headphones are not designed for use during sports or any physical activities (see our recommendations for the best headphones for working out). They easily slide off your ears when running or jumping. The ear cups have a large enough surface area that they will maintain their position during casual listening sessions even when tilting your head. The cable is also detachable but takes a lot of force and may damage the headphones if violently removed, which slightly reduces their stability score.
- Sennheiser HD 800 S Headphones
- 1/4" to 1/8" Adapter
- Audio cable (x2)
- Carrying pouch
- USB memory drive
The Sennheiser HD 800 S' frequency response consistency is great. There are slight deviations in low-bass, which can happen if you wear glasses or have thick hair, but the rest of the range is very consistent. The treble delivery is also very consistent across reseats.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S have decent bass. They lack low-bass and are light on the thump and rumble found in bass-heavy genres like EDM and hip-hop. Mid-bass, responsible for the body of bass guitars and the punch of kick drums is also underemphasized, but less so. However, high-bass, responsible for warmth, is a bit overemphasized, adding a bit of muddiness to the overall sound.
The mid accuracy is outstanding. The response throughout the range is very even and virtually flat. This results in a balanced production of vocals and lead instruments. However, a dip in the high-mid slightly weakens these sounds.
The treble accuracy is excellent. The low to mid-treble is quite flat but slightly underemphasized. As a result, vocals and instruments are a bit veiled. However, sibilants like cymbals still sound somewhat bright.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S have outstanding imaging. Weighted group delay falls within very good limits and is below the audibility threshold. This results in a tight bass and a transparent treble reproduction. Additionally, the L/R drivers of our unit are exceptionally well-matched in frequency, amplitude, and phase response, ensuring an accurate placement and localization of objects (voices, instruments, video game effects) in the stereo field.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S have an outstanding soundstage. The PRTF graph shows a high amount of interaction between the pinna and the headphones, and the activation is also very accurate except for the 6KHz region. The 10KHz notch present is very deep, but also upshifted in frequency a bit, which probably gives the impression that the sound source is elevated (in-front and slightly above). Overall, due to the good PRTF response, and open-back design, the soundstage will be perceived as large, natural, and spacious. It won't be as externalized as a loudspeaker setup, partly due to the lack of correlated crosstalk, but it performs better than other open-back headphones like the Philips Fidelio X3.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S have poor isolation. Due to their open-back design, these headphones don't achieve any isolation in the bass range, where the rumble of airplane and bus engines sits. In the mid-range, important for blocking out speech, they don't isolate either. They struggle to block out high-pitched noise like the hum of an AC unit.
The leakage performance is poor. Due to the open-back design and large drivers, these headphones are one of the loudest and leakiest we've measured. The significant portion of their leakage is spread between the mid to treble range, which is a very broad range. The overall level of the leakage is very loud. If you're listening to audio at high volumes, others around you can hear it.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S do not come with a microphone. For a wired headphone with a good in-line microphone, check out the Bose SoundTrue Around-Ear II, the Bose QuietComfort 25 or the Apple EarPods.
These headphones don't have a microphone so the recording quality has not been tested.
The Sennheiser HD 800 S does not have a microphone so the noise handling has not been tested.
These headphones don't have any active components and don't require a battery.
These headphones don't come with an app or software for added customization options.
These headphones are wired and don't have a Bluetooth connection. If you want a good-sounding wireless headset, then consider the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, or the open-back HiFiMan ANANDA-BT Wireless.
The wired connection of these headphones has negligible latency which is suitable for gaming and home-theater use.
They have a simple 1/4'TRS audio cable with no in-line remote/microphone, so they will only provide audio when connected to your PS4, Xbox One or PC.
The Sennheiser HD 800S don't have a dock. If you need a headset with a dock that also has a wired connection for gaming or watching movies, then consider the SteelSeries Arctis 7.