Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone: Legendary Open-Back Audiophile Headphones
Published on Dec. 12, 2023, 8:29 a.m.
The Sennheiser HD 600 have been revered by audiophiles as a reference benchmark for high-fidelity listening since their release in 1997. With an open-back design focused on transparency, and smart transducer engineering for a natural sound, these legendary cans have stood the test of time.
Overview
Now over 20 years old, the lightweight Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone remain a favorite for extended listening sessions. Their expansive 12Hz-39.5kHz frequency response reveals details in recordings across the spectrum, making them a go-to for mastering engineers around the world.
Features
- Open-back design for exceptionally natural and clear sound
- Lightweight aluminum voice coils for excellent transient response
- Computer-optimized neodymium magnets minimize distortion
- Comfort-focused construction allows for long listening sessions
- Time-tested benchmark for critical music analysis since 1997
Design
Clad in Sennheiser’s signature matte black and anthracite gray color scheme, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone have an understated industrial aesthetic. The open metal mesh earcups allow sound to emanate freely for a speaker-like listening experience.
Key Selling Points
- audiophile-grade reference sound
- open-back design creates immersive soundstage
- comfortable for extended listening sessions
- durable construction with user-replaceable parts
- detachable audio cable with sturdy connectors
Ease of Use
Using the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone is very straightforward. Simply connect the audio cable to your stereo or amplifier, adjust the headband for a secure fit, position the earcups over your ears, and enjoy exceptional sound.
Sound Quality
With a 12Hz-39.5kHz frequency response, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone deliver stunning transparency and detail across the entire audible range. The open-back design provides an incredibly natural listening experience, with clear highs, accurate mids, and tight bass.
Microphone
The Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone do not have an integrated microphone. As a purely analog stereo headphone designed for critical listening, a microphone is not included.
Noise Cancellation
There is no active noise cancellation technology. As an open-back headphone, they do not provide noise isolation.
Battery and Charging
The Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone do not contain a battery and do not require charging. They are a purely analog wired headphone.
Connectivity
Connectivity is via a 3 meter long detachable cable with a 6.35mm stereo plug. A 3.5mm adapter is included.
Controls
There are no onboard controls for playback or volume. Controls are handled on the connected audio source.
Build Quality
Constructed from high-quality plastics and lightweight metals, with premium padded headband and earpads. The headphones are hand-assembled in Ireland for rigidity and acoustic performance.
Comfort
The open earcup design prevents heat buildup. The padded headband and earpads are comfortable for long listening sessions. Some users report slight clamping force.
Water Resistance
The Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone are not water or sweat resistant. The open design makes them unsuitable for use in wet environments.
Use Cases
The transparent and detailed sound of the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone makes them ideal for discerning music listeners who want to hear every subtlety in their favorite recordings. They excel in home audiophile stereo setups and professional recording/mixing studios where critical listening is paramount. Their open-back design provides a natural immersive listening experience.
User Feedback Analysis
Overall user feedback is extremely positive, with most buyers giving 5 star reviews praising the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone’s sound quality and comfort. The transparency and mid-range detail are universally acclaimed as reference-level. Some users wish for more powerful bass impact, while a small minority note a slight clamping sensation during marathon listening sessions. But the overall user consensus is that the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone deliver phenomenal musicality and value.
Pros
- Extremely transparent and detailed sound across all frequencies
- Lightweight open-back design is comfortable for extended use
- Reveals subtle nuances missed by lesser headphones
- Natural immersive soundstage
- Durable construction built to last
- Detachable audio cable
Cons
- Bass impact may be lacking for some genres/preferences
- Long-term comfort could be improved with less clamping force
Value
At their price point, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone offer tremendous value compared to other audiophile headphones, delivering reference-level performance and comfort for critical listening. While more expensive headphones exist, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone punch far above their weight.
Conclusion
For those seeking ultimate hi-fi musicality, the legendary Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone deliver sublime sound and comfort. Pair them with a desktop amp to unlock their full potential for critical listening. Audiophiles, look no further for reference-grade open-back headphones.
Specifications
- Form Factor: Over ear, open-back
- Connectivity: Wired
- Impedance: 300 ohms
- Frequency Response: 12Hz - 39,500Hz
- Transducer Principle: Dynamic
- Sound Pressure Level: 97 dB
- Total Harmonic Distortion: 0.1%
- Weight without Cable: 260 grams
- Cable Length: 3 meters
- Warranty: 2 years
What’s in the Box
- Sennheiser HD 600 Headphones
- 6.3mm adapter
How to Use
The HD 600 are easy to operate. Simply plug the audio cable into your stereo amplifier, AV receiver, or headphone amplifier. Adjust the headband length for a secure yet comfortable fit around your head. Position the earcups over your ears and enjoy exceptional audio performance. Handle the headphones gently and clean the earpads periodically.
