Sennheiser HD 650 Review: The Reference Mixing Headphone

The Sennheiser HD 650 represents the culmination of Sennheiser’s open-back headphone development. Since its introduction, the HD 650 has earned trust from mastering engineers, mixing professionals, and audiophiles who demand accurate reproduction. At $499, these headphones deliver reference-quality monitoring that reveals the truth about recordings.

The HD 600/650 Legacy

The HD 600 established Sennheiser’s reference headphone reputation with its neutral, detailed reproduction. The HD 650 refined this formula with slightly enhanced bass and warmer character while maintaining the accuracy that professionals require.

These headphones have remained in production largely unchanged because they got the formula right. Minor revisions have updated cosmetics and materials without altering the sound signature that earned professional trust.

The HD 650’s longevity in a rapidly evolving market speaks to its enduring relevance. New competitors come and go while the HD 650 maintains its position as a reference standard.

Sound Signature

The HD 650 delivers neutral reproduction with subtle warmth that makes extended listening comfortable. The slight bass emphasis over the HD 600 adds body without compromising accuracy.

Bass response extends deep with excellent control and natural decay. The low end reveals bass content accurately without the enhancement that consumer headphones apply. Engineers hear what’s actually in their recordings.

The midrange proves exceptionally honest and present. Vocals and instruments appear clearly without coloration or masking. Critical mixing decisions translate reliably because the HD 650 reveals the truth.

High frequencies remain detailed without harshness or fatigue. The treble rolls off gently rather than extending flatly, adding naturalness that suits extended sessions. Fine detail remains audible without the brightness that induces ear fatigue.

Open-Back Design Benefits

The open-back design allows air movement around the drivers, providing several benefits for critical listening. The natural decay and reduced ear fatigue from open designs improve long-session performance.

The soundstage extends naturally beyond the head, providing spatial presentation that closed headphones cannot match. Pan positions and reverb tails present more accurately, improving spatial mixing decisions.

The open back eliminates the resonances that closed designs can create. The sound remains cleaner and more accurate as a result.

The trade-off involves sound leakage in both directions. The HD 650 cannot isolate for tracking applications, and others nearby will hear the music. Private listening requires closed alternatives.

Amplification Requirements

The 300-ohm impedance requires adequate amplification to reach its potential. Most audio interface headphone outputs drive the HD 650 acceptably, though dedicated amplifiers improve performance noticeably.

The high impedance means the HD 650 draws little current while requiring higher voltage. Portable devices may struggle to achieve adequate volume. Proper amplification is an investment that these headphones justify.

Quality amplification improves bass control, dynamic range, and detail resolution. The HD 650 scales with amplification quality, rewarding better sources with better performance.

Comfort for Extended Sessions

The velour earpads provide exceptional comfort that supports marathon mixing sessions. The soft material breathes well, preventing heat buildup that leather alternatives can cause.

The relatively light 260-gram weight reduces neck fatigue during hours of use. The clamping force starts moderate and relaxes over time as the headband forms to the wearer’s head.

The headband padding distributes weight evenly, preventing crown pressure. Even during eight-hour mixing days, the HD 650 remains comfortable.

Build Quality

The plastic construction concerns some buyers expecting metal at this price point. However, the materials prove durable and the construction quality meets professional standards.

The detachable cable uses Sennheiser’s proprietary two-pin connectors. Replacement cables and aftermarket upgrades are available when needed.

All components remain replaceable through Sennheiser, extending functional lifespan indefinitely. Headphones can be rebuilt rather than discarded when parts wear.

Mixing Application

The HD 650 excels at mixing reference checking and detailed editing work. The accuracy reveals issues that speakers in untreated rooms might mask.

Frequency balance decisions translate reliably from HD 650 monitoring. Mixes that sound right on these headphones typically work on other systems.

The natural soundstage helps evaluate panning and spatial effects. Reverb and delay tails present accurately, supporting mix decisions.

Learning the HD 650’s character improves its utility as a reference. Time spent with any monitoring system teaches its idiosyncrasies.

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The Sennheiser HD 650 is available at Guitar Center, Musician’s Friend, ProAudioStar, and Amazon.