Is the HD 800 S worth it over the HD 800?

The HD 800 S is the refined version of the HD 800, with a smoother treble response and an absorber that tames the earlier peak. If you already own the HD 800, the step up is modest; if you are buying new, the S is the version to get.

Do I need a headphone amplifier?

Yes. The HD 800 S is high-impedance and revealing, so a dedicated amp or a strong desktop DAC/amp brings out its bass control and dynamics. A phone or laptop headphone jack will leave it sounding thin.

Can I use it for gaming or commuting?

It works well for immersive gaming at a desk because of its soundstage, but the open-back design leaks sound and blocks nothing, so it is not suited to commuting or noisy rooms.

Is the cable detachable?

Yes, the cable detaches at the earcups, and Sennheiser uses its own connector, so replacements come from Sennheiser or third parties making compatible cables.

How does it compare with planar magnetic headphones?

Planars like the HiFiMan Susvara typically offer more bass slam and weight, while the HD 800 S counters with a wider stage, lighter weight and easier comfort over long sessions.

The headphones come with a detachable cable and a storage case, plus the usual documentation. Check the listing for the exact cable termination offered.

Where is the HD 800 S cheapest?

At soundhounds, for $1,684.29, 16% under what the other stores charge, as of our latest check.

What do buyers say about the HD 800 S?

Rated 4.9 out of 5 from 69 ratings.

Where can I buy the HD 800 S?

17 stores we checked sell it, including Sennheiser US - Sonova Consumer Hearing USA LLC, soundhounds, Apos, Sennheiser, Nordstrom.

Sennheiser

HD 800 S

Best price now

$1,684.29at soundhoundsChecked 33 min ago

16% under what the other stores charge

Compared across 17 stores. Prices are checked against each store and labelled with when.

Visit soundhounds

What reviewers say

4.9 / 569 ratings

Owners rate it very highly, calling it one of the most detailed and spacious dynamic headphones available. Most criticism centers on its lean bass and the need for quality amplification.

What people mention

SoundstagePraisedOwners describe an unusually wide, layered presentation that places instruments clearly around the head.
DetailPraisedListeners say it reveals small recording details and textures that other headphones smooth over.
BassMixedSome find the low end lean and want more weight, while others call it accurate and uncolored.
ComfortPraisedLong sessions are reported as easy thanks to the light frame and soft ear pads.
AmplificationMixedOwners say it scales with a good amp and can sound thin from a phone or weak source.
LeakageCriticisedThe open-back design lets sound out and room noise in, which limits use in shared spaces.

About the HD 800 S

The Sennheiser HD 800 S is a reference-class, open-back pair of headphones for critical listening. Each earcup has a 56mm Ring Radiator dynamic transducer with a 40mm voice coil wound in-house. Both the outer and inner edges of the ring are secured to the drive unit.

The chassis is vibration damping and uses aerospace-grade materials. An inert damping element in the headband reduces vibrations, and a patented frequency absorber reduces resonances that mask musical detail. The drivers are mounted at an angle to send sound directly to the listener's ears, and the open-back construction gives a wide soundstage. Each transducer is tested and measured, and each pair includes the frequency response plot for its matched transducers.

The headband is adjustable and made of metal. The earcups have dual-axis articulation, and every contact point has microfiber padding. Purpose-built composites reduce weight and pressure. The metal components are matte black. The headphones were developed in Germany and built at Sennheiser's plant in Ireland.

Type

Open-back, reference-class headphones

Transducer

56mm Ring Radiator dynamic transducer

Voice coil

40mm

Cable

Specially tuned symmetrical cable

Connectors

Gold-plated 4.4mm (balanced) and 6.35mm (unbalanced) jack plugs

Padding

Microfiber ear and headband padding