The Sennheiser HD 800 S stands out for its exceptional engineering and sound quality. Designed for the audiophile who seeks a pristine audio experience, these headphones are a testament to Sennheiser’s commitment to audio excellence.

Sound Quality

The Sennheiser HD 800 S delivers an outstanding, reference-quality audio reproduction that sets it apart in the realm of high-end audiophile headphones. Featuring a 56mm Ring Radiator dynamic driver, these headphones provide a satisfyingly neutral and reference-grade sound. The sound profile is incredibly neutral and ideal for reproducing natural vocals and instruments. Although lighter on the bass, a characteristic of open-back designs, it contributes to a spacious and out-of-head passive soundstage, immersing you deeply in your audio. The unique ear cup design directs sound waves to the ear at a slight angle, enhancing the natural and spatial listening experience. Notably, the headphones’ absorber technology reduces the “masking effect,” allowing even the subtlest nuances in the music to become audible.

Design and Comfort

The design of the HD 800 S is as meticulous as its sound. Combining high-grade plastic with a metal frame, the headphones offer both durability and a premium aesthetic. The large, spacious ear cups are fitted with plush, suede-like padding, ensuring comfort even during extended listening sessions. The open-back design, while contributing to the sound quality, also means these headphones are not suited for noisy environments as they do not block out background noise. However, this design is crucial in creating the expansive soundstage that the HD 800 S is renowned for.

Specifications

The Sennheiser HD 800 S features an impedance of 300 ohms and a sensitivity of 102dB, suggesting that an amplifier could enhance your listening experience, although it’s not mandatory. The frequency response ranges from 4 Hz to 51,000 Hz, covering an extensive spectrum to capture every detail. The headphones also boast a total harmonic distortion of less than 0.02% at 1 kHz 1 Vrms, ensuring the audio output is as true to the original recording as possible.

The HD 800 S is particularly recommended for those who appreciate a detailed, expansive soundstage and a natural listening experience. Its ability to dissect complex musical compositions and present each element distinctly makes it a top choice for serious audiophiles. Whether you’re diving into classical symphonies or live recordings, the HD 800 S offers a gateway to audio purity, making it a stellar addition to our list of the best open-back headphones for 2024.

Read our full review of the Audeze LCD-2

Sound Quality

The Audeze LCD-2 has consistently set benchmarks in the headphone industry since its debut, renowned for its clear, natural, and spacious sound. This planar magnetic model excels in delivering a vibrant and physical sound that connects listeners intimately with their music. The midrange tone is warm and lifelike, complemented by a legendary deep and powerful bass that lets you feel the pulse of the music. Fine details are presented effortlessly and smoothly, creating an immersive auditory experience. Upgraded with patented Fazor waveguides, the LCD-2 now offers even greater precision and intimacy, making every listening session a revelation.

Design and Comfort

Audeze has meticulously maintained the aesthetic and functional quality of the LCD-2. Hand-crafted in their Southern California workshop, these headphones feature beautiful wood rings that preserve the original charm and elegance. Recent upgrades include a suspension headband and the latest ear pads, enhancing comfort significantly. The unique dual-sided staggered magnetic array in the planar drivers allows music the space to breathe, making the sound feel more alive and authentic. This design not only improves the sound quality but also ensures that the LCD-2 remains comfortable, even during extended listening periods.

Specifications

The technical specifications of the LCD-2 reflect its high-end design. It features a proprietary magnet array and Fazor phase management, with neodymium N50 magnet type, ensuring robust sound delivery. The transducer size is 106 mm, and it can handle a maximum power of 5W RMS, with a sensitivity of 101 dB/1mW at the Drum Reference Point. The impedance stands at 70 ohms, indicating that while the LCD-2 can perform well with various audio sources, optimal performance is achieved with a suitable amplifier. The weight is approximately 595g for the rosewood version and 580g for the Shedua/Bamboo, making it substantial yet manageable for serious listening sessions.

The Audeze LCD-2 is particularly recommended for those who value a detailed, expansive soundstage and a deeply engaging listening experience. Its ability to render complex musical textures with clarity and emotional depth makes it a preferred choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts alike. Whether you are delving into intricate classical compositions or enjoying the dynamic beats of modern music, the LCD-2 offers a stellar auditory experience that is both enriching and exhilarating.

Read our full review of the HiFiMan Sundara

The HiFiMan Sundara stands out as an excellent choice for audiophiles who value detailed and expansive sound. This planar magnetic headphone is not only aesthetically pleasing but also offers impressive technical performance, making it a strong contender in its price range.

Sound Quality

The HiFiMan Sundara delivers an exceptional auditory experience, especially when paired with the right amplification. The sound is characterized by its clarity and brightness, providing an open and expansive soundstage that brings every detail to life. Initially, the headphones may lack sub-bass, but with proper equalization, they transform dramatically. The EQ adjustments bring a warm tonality with deep bass and detailed string instruments, making the overall sound profile very engaging. The treble is amplified, enhancing the listener’s involvement by increasing the amount of information perceived, thus creating a vivid and immersive listening experience.

Design and Comfort

The design of the Sundara combines elegance with functionality. The headphones are constructed mostly of metal, ensuring durability without compromising on weight, as they remain light and comfortable to wear. The ear cups are circular and do not swivel, which might initially feel slightly uncomfortable but the overall fit adjusts well over time. The pads and headband are crafted from soft, flexible materials, making long listening sessions a pleasure. Additionally, the revised pad structure enhances both the comfort and the frequency response of the headphones.

Specifications

The Sundara features planar magnetic drivers with a sensitivity of 94 dB/mW and an impedance of 37 ohms, which suggests that they benefit significantly from amplification. The frequency response ranges impressively from 6 Hz to 75 kHz, allowing for a broad and detailed sound reproduction. Weighing in at 372 grams, these headphones are relatively lightweight for their build and technical capabilities. They also come with detachable cables that feature 3.5mm connectors, adding to their versatility and ease of use.

The HiFiMan Sundara is best suited for users who appreciate a natural and engaging sound profile. Its ability to handle complex musical passages with clarity and detail makes it an excellent choice for those who not only love music but also wish to explore the intricacies of sound. Whether you’re listening to classical, rock, or electronic music, the Sundara adapts to provide a rich and satisfying audio experience.

Exploring the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro reveals a mix of strengths and specific drawbacks that are crucial for potential users to understand. This model, known for its critical listening capabilities, offers a unique auditory experience, although it comes with certain limitations that might affect user satisfaction depending on their audio priorities.

Sound Quality

The sound quality of the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is marked by a clear and crisp output, particularly excelling in the reproduction of high-resolution tracks. The headphones deliver a lot of detail, making them excellent for neutral sound enthusiasts. However, they tend to emphasize the treble range slightly too much, which can result in a sharp sound profile (avoid this headphone if you are sensitive to bright sound profiles). While they reproduce bass, instruments, and vocals with high fidelity, the lack of deep bass and the exaggerated highs can be a concern. The spacious soundstage is notable, though it does not quite match the width of some competitors, leading to a more “in-head” audio perception.

Design and Comfort

In terms of design and comfort, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro features a solid build with a rugged metal headband that can withstand a fair amount of stress. However, the plastic used in the open-back ear cups may reduce durability. Comfort-wise, these headphones have large, well-padded ear cups that fit comfortably around most ears. The headband, while sturdy, is noted to be a bit rigid, which might make the headphones feel tight during extended listening sessions. Despite these issues, the overall lightweight design and the plushness of the ear pads contribute positively to user comfort.

Specifications

The technical specifications of the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro highlight its capabilities and limitations. With an impedance of 250 ohms, it is clear that these headphones are designed for use with a capable amplifier to achieve the best sound quality. The frequency response exaggeration and distortion issues noted at higher volumes suggest that while the headphones can perform well, they may require careful handling and possibly equalization adjustments to manage the sound quality effectively. The open-back design, while contributing to the spacious soundstage, also means that they leak sound and do not block ambient noise, limiting their use in noisy environments.

For audiophiles who prioritize detailed high frequencies and a crisp sound profile, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro offers a compelling choice. However, those seeking a balanced bass response or using headphones in varied environments might find the limitations a significant factor to consider.

Sound Quality

The Philips Fidelio X2HR offers a sound profile that is meticulously balanced, making it ideal for a variety of audio genres. The highlight of these headphones is their robust and natural bass response, which is quite rare in open-back models. The bass is warm, rich, and textured, staying true to the source material without overwhelming other frequencies. The midrange is equally impressive, providing a realistic texture that enhances the listening experience, particularly for vocal and instrumental tracks. However, the treble can exhibit some peaks, leading to mild harshness, but this is considerably less intense compared to other models in the same category.

Design and Comfort

In terms of design, the Philips Fidelio X2HR is both sturdy and aesthetically pleasing, featuring a blend of metal and minimal plastic components. The ear cups are designed to tilt at 15 degrees, aligning with the natural geometry of the ear for optimal sound delivery. This design choice not only enhances sound quality but also contributes to overall comfort. The headphones are equipped with large, luxurious memory foam ear pads covered in breathable velour, ensuring comfort even during extended listening sessions. Despite their robust build, weighing 380g without the cable, they maintain a level of comfort that prevents fatigue.

Specifications

The Fidelio X2HR is equipped with powerful 50mm neodymium drivers that ensure a wide and precise range of sound reproduction. These drivers are paired with Acoustic open-back architecture, which eliminates air pressure build-up behind the driver, allowing for enhanced transparency and smooth high frequencies. The headphones also feature Layered Motion Control (LMC) drivers with a multi-layered polymer diaphragm that effectively dampens exaggerated frequencies, resulting in a more balanced and natural sound. The overall audio fidelity is further supported by High-Resolution Audio certification, ensuring that the headphones reproduce music as faithfully as possible to the original studio recordings.

The Philips Fidelio X2HR is an excellent choice for those who value sonic excellence and comfort. Its ability to deliver detailed, natural sound along with its robust construction makes it a top contender for one of the best open-back headphones on the market. Whether you’re an audiophile or a casual listener, the Fidelio X2HR provides an authentic and immersive audio experience.

Sound Quality

The Grado SR325x delivers a sound quality that places you front and center of the performance, embodying the essence of being at a live concert. With its dynamic drivers, these headphones provide surgical precision to music reproduction, offering better imaging and a clearer soundstage. The bass is deep and impactful, maintaining a touch of prominence without overpowering the midrange, which is slightly dark and grainy. The treble, while extended, remains subtly subdued, contributing to a lively and open sound that recreates room ambiance effortlessly. This combination results in a warm, slightly bassy soundscape that is both engaging and detailed, making it ideal for genres like Rock, Metal, and Jazz.

Design and Comfort

The design of the SR325x reflects Grado’s commitment to quality and user comfort. The headphones feature a metal housing and a retro, black-leather-and-white-stitch headband, which not only adds to the durability but also enhances the aesthetic appeal. The earpads, available in various styles, are designed to optimize the listening experience based on user preference. The standard foam earpads, combined with the loose, swivel-mount action of the enclosures, ensure a comfortable fit without creating excessive pressure on the head. However, users with larger heads might experience slight discomfort due to the headband’s adjustment range.

Specifications

Equipped with 44mm dynamic drivers, the SR325x operates on an open-air principle, which aids in creating an expansive soundstage. The frequency response ranges from 18 Hz to 24 kHz, allowing for a wide spectrum of sound reproduction. With an impedance of 38 ohms and a sensitivity of 98 dB/mW, these headphones perform optimally with a variety of audio sources, though they may benefit from amplification for the best experience. The non-detachable, super-annealed copper 8-conductor cable is robust, ensuring durability and quality sound transmission.

The Grado SR325x stands out for its detailed and natural sound delivery, combined with a comfortable and stylish design, making it a top choice for audiophiles who appreciate a more intimate audio experience. Whether exploring intricate classical compositions or enjoying the dynamic beats of modern music, the SR325x offers a stellar auditory experience that is both enriching and exhilarating.

Sound Quality

The Focal Utopia showcases a sonic refinement that elevates it above its predecessors. Notably smoother in the high mid/low treble regions, it offers a cleaner sound with reduced distortion—a key to superior audio performance. The integration of the ‘M’ shaped driver grill, mirroring the shape of the dome and driver, minimizes gaps and enhances the linearity of frequency response, especially in the trebles. This meticulous design ensures a clearer and more accurate musical reproduction. The bass response remains linear below 100 Hz, providing a quick and clean output with a refined depth that is immensely satisfying without being overpowering. The treble and bass maintain a balanced ‘Goldilocks’ quality—detailed, fast, clean, and extended, yet never overbearing.

Design and Comfort

The Focal Utopia not only excels in sound but also design and comfort, making it the flagship model of Focal’s headphone family. Its distinctive honeycomb styling is not just aesthetically pleasing but functionally innovative, allowing greater driver movement and a more open sound. Constructed with premium materials like recycled carbon fiber, genuine leather, and aluminum, and handcrafted in France, the Utopia combines luxury with sustainability. The new yokes and redesigned ear pads enhance comfort, distributing weight evenly and reducing pressure during extended listening sessions.

Specifications

Utopia’s technical prowess is reflected in its specifications. It features an impedance of 80 Ohms and a sensitivity of 104dB SPL / 1mW @ 1kHz, indicating that while it performs best with amplification, it remains versatile across different audio setups. The frequency response ranges from 5 Hz to over 50 kHz, ensuring no detail is missed. The open-back design incorporates M-shaped Beryllium dome drivers that deliver unmatched clarity and realism, setting a new standard in high-fidelity headphone performance. Additionally, the headphones come equipped with a 4m cable and a 6.35mm Neutrik® stereo plug, emphasizing both quality and functionality.

The Focal Utopia, with its perfect blend of advanced technology, exquisite craftsmanship, and ergonomic design, stands out as a top-tier choice for audiophiles. Its ability to deliver a natural, detailed, and immersive listening experience makes it ideal for those who seek both sonic excellence and aesthetic sophistication in their audio equipment. Whether exploring complex classical compositions or the dynamic layers of modern soundtracks, the Utopia offers a listening experience that is as close to perfection as one can get.