It is good for gaming, I used them last night during a minecraft session where I placed over 10000 cobblestone blocks. Thanks to its soundstage and imaging, I heard exactly where I placed each cobblestone block.
So happy about the collaboration, the only thing that "bothered" me about DMS was that he didn't do "enough" headphone reviews. From past purchases I know that I almost always share his opinion, because of that I value it by far the most out of the bigger review channels. Absolute W for all parties.
I love my HD 800 S headphones. I’ve had them for about a year. I use them with a Meridian Prime headphone amp which has the special power supply. I do listen to classical (mostly 20C) and jazz a lot. Recently I’ve been listening to a lot of electronica because it relates to a project I’m doing and, yes, they are really good for that as well. I’ve also listened to quite a lot of prog rock on them and I think they are really good with that as well. What I find they don’t do well with is dance music where that thunderous driving bass is required. You just need another set of headphones for that. I would never sell my HD 800 S headphones. I think they might be the best audio product I have ever purchased. They are so comfortable and light as well. I just love ‘em!
I'm so glad you did this! The HD600 was my first professinal headphone (I still have my original ones!), and I have owned an HD800S for several years as well. Everything you say is reflected in my own experience, but you add a lot more knowledge with both your subjective comments and the measurements. I really appriciate that. I've switched more to LCD in the past year, the LCD-X first, and the LCD-4z when I got an email from LCD offering a B-Stock one for half-price. Both have the exceptional bass I crave, and the 4z comes pretty close to the detail and clarity of the HD800S. Great to see you making more You Tube content now with this channel as well as your original one!
Totally agree with DMS about pairing the HD800S with an OTL amp. I had an HD800 w/SDR mod a couple years ago and always struggled with the lack of bass and peaky treble. I was using it with a hybrid tube amp and a Schiit Jot 2. Then last year I got an OTL tube amp and an HD800S, and I'm in heaven. I have a ZMF Aeolus, but I use the HD800S about 75% of the time.
It all pairs well with vintage SS amps built for higher impedance phones as well. I get way more thick, gooey bass out of it from my 1980s Luxman R-115 than even my Sony Tazzy which is already a bassy warm amp as it is.
Does it sound warmer because of the second harmonics or because of rolled off treble? This is one route I have always hesitated to go down on, so I welcome the info.
@@johnsysays You need EQ for the HD 800s. When you dont use EQ this Headphone sounds boring and bright. I use my RME ADI 2 DAC/AMP with EQ to avoid audio delay for gaming. Everything else is not a option for me anymore... I can listen to all types of musik after the right EQ settings. HD800S can take it well and need it.
I really love these and the normal HD800 without the S too. Probably because I have about -10dB dip in the general area of 6kHz of my hearing. So I'm immune of that 6kHz bump. So to me these sound really good and many others sound quite dark or muddy.
@@egeakbaba2935 I didn't measure it. A doctors did it several times. It has been done in a sound proof room which had another room inside of it to get rid of all the other noses. Then they play you a very quiet tones and you press a button when you hear it. It has been done like 10 years ago in an certain interval. As they were concerned that I might lose my hearing. Only around the 6kHz is lost. I really do not remember the actual decibels but it was a LOT. Probably a really much more than 10dB. And I still do not hear it almost at all.
I don’t have the S version but I’m contrarian and picked up the original 800 on eBay and love it, I’m not noticing this spike everyone complains about. I also love the HD820 even though it makes people put up crosses and stakes, it almost makes me want to get the HD8xx for laughs if it wasn’t so much money for a marginal sidegrade.
That headphone was 'in' about 10 years ago when On-Ears were all the rage, but completely dropped off the map since then. I personally preferred the Beyer DT1350 over it at the time.
Absolutely they are worth every penny! I have had them for a almost 2 years and paired with a Neve RNHP and a Topping DX7pro, I have been very satisfied with the setup. I recommend the Neve especially.
As a classical aficionado, I think bass is underrated for the genre. A bass-light headphone is NOT suited to classical for me. Cellos, contrabasses, and percussion really benefit from a deep subbass and midbass response, making orchestral and chamber music sound really deep and grounded. Classical can tend towards shriekiness, especially in violins, if things are too bright.
Those that think with classical music bass isn't equally necessary clearly just listen to it occasionally and aren't much involved with it... like those people whose only classical music in their libraries are "classical music to relax" "classical music to focus" "classical for children" playlists, rather than albumbs based on musicians, orchestras... the actual people playing.
Nice review; I bought mine last year, and yes! is my best headphone for chill out and relax, comfort is the king, paired with the mids and soundstage, takes any stress away.....
but Tube amp? nah, not for me, even if really sounds better in a AB testing, the fact that I know I am adding distortion and harmonics to my music makes the experience.........artificial
@@Lauren080508 tube amps don't sound artificial actually (I personnaly think and many others) the opposite... most good tube amps have distortion levels which are on normal listening levels burried under/in the noise floor (the sound of outside and general background noise) so you don't even hear it nor it contributes to the sound much if it all...
@@skandiaart possible ,it is true most people think tube sound comes from adding second harmonics to the music, anyway I was talking about my own experience while listening to music. In my 20s I was in a band, i know how instrument sound live, I want that, a perfect representation, as if I were in the recording studio while the musicians do their thing, i don't want anything "artificial" added by electronics, your previous experience and knowledge affect how you perceive things.
Just the fact that we're reviewing it again in 2022 is all you need to know lol. Also, Bottlehead Crackatwoa with the HD800S is just stupidly good and doesn't break the bank.
Glad to see you're part of the Headphone Show now! Love your thorough review and aesthetic presentation. I'd like to see a review and comparison of the Grado RS1X and RS2X. People seem to like them but I'm not necessarily keen on taking impressions from the 'Grado people'. Also I'd love to see a review of the Audeze MX4 and maybe how the a used LCD-4 stacks up against the Heddphone or the MX4.
Agreed. Curious about the Grados myself. My first headphone was a Grado and I'm curious but hesitant how the brand would hold up after trying a bit of everything else.
@@ResilientME just get a pair of SR80x or even the SR60x. It'll give you the Grado house sound for cheap...most of the difference between Grado models is in the pads. The house sound is nice for the budget range but not necessarily worth the price premium for the high end models.
I've been using Sennheiser headphones for the past 4 years for gaming/music on my desktop. I started with the Hd6xx then used the hd700 for 3 2 years. I've been using the Hd8xx since they launched and now I have the Hd800s. I've been absolutely in love with the hd8xx/Hd800s the comfort and sound are unmatched.
@@tallguyericreviews Thanks for this info. I also have the Zen DAC V2 (what a fantastic little box it is), and I was wondering if they’d drive the 800S well or not. Do you use the high gain setting for them? I’m currently looking for trading in towards the 800S.
Definitely agree about ambient music, I use mine for psytrance ambient and they're magnificent 👌 but also Definitely classical and soundtracks, especially love the Thin Redline soundtrack on them.
Is this a sign? I just got the Element III, and I have been seriously pondering on getting the HD800s. Now hearing how well they pair, I might have to buy them.
I upgraded from my SteelSeries Pro Wireless to the HD800S for FPS gaming and as my first audiophile headphone. I'm driving them with a GoXLR and Schiit Valhalla 2 (tube amp). Although I probably perform the same at the end of the day, I definitely notice a better placement of sound and overall quality for games like Escape from Tarkov. This is the only headphone that I've tried that is comfier than the SteelSeries as well. Would highly recommend if you are looking to get the absolute most out of your hardware for gaming!
Love my HD800SDR on tubes; sounds great on my Valhalla 2, Lyr 3, and DNA Starlett. Haven't been the biggest fan of using it for solid state though (Jotunheim and Monolith THX 887). Exception for me is the Ragnarok 2 where it sounds pretty good.
I have the ragnarok as well and roll the different tubes, idk what I prefer but the solid state tubes do make these headphones more of an analytical listen with the precise detail
Great vid! I currently use the Element II with my HD800S. Is the Element III worth the upgrade? Also, any recommendation for another set of headphone to pair with my HD 800s?
Good morning ☕️.. Great review..but I’ll keep my 650’s ( on a tube amp) …this 800S’s are to rich for my blood. Gone the IEM’s collection route. Different tunings and fun ( without breaking the bank ) Take care 🍻
I kept my HD650 with EQ over the HD800s, which does many things excellently, but I don't like the soundstage effect and weak bass. Nothing bothers me with the HD650 and I've tested, used and owned several +k$ headphones.
@@256alexdt Perhaps if one prefers tube amps, which I don't so much. Maybe some TOTL one might be nice, but I find the ones I've heard a bit messy sounding at least in the sub-300 price range.
@@hartyewh1 yes in honesty I never tried a sub 300$ otl tube amp. I made my own and the parts alone were like 1300$ that was without the tube. I did heard that some are decent like darkvoice but they measure meh and I never tried it
In a video not too long ago, you thoughtfully pointed out that listening to the same headphones for too long, even great ones, can essentially become a bit boring. What usual headphones might you want to switch to these from instead?
@@haberdasherrykr8886 I never take TWS buds to space. The batteries will fail a mere 5 years into the mission and then one must endure the rest of the voyage in deject silence. 😵💫
So the hd800s aren’t my only headphones, but they are certainly my only audiophile headphones. In fact, the only other headphones I own right now are the hd25s. I have had my eye on the ie300s since they went on sale at sennheiser. I went to buy them today and found they are sold out. I have had my hd800s for 11 months and they seduce me every time I put them on. I really hope I never have to sell them. As you can see, for at home use, these headphones completely satisfy my listening needs. I love listening to classical on them. The instrument separation is incredible, and they add an acoustic flavor to electronic music that I quite like! What you loose in bass you gain in speed…
@@johnsysays With hip-hop It really depends on the song and how low the sub bass frequencies go. The mid bass is nice, clean and tight with a medium amount of punch, the sub bass however is what gives them that reputation. If you listen to a song like Clint Eastwood by the Gorillaz you might miss out on some of that low end rumble you would get with a sub woofer. This doesn't stop that song from being very enjoyable on the hd800s, especially with eq. Now take a more underground hip-hop tune, One Million Minds by Collective Efforts. I haven't heard that song sound better on any other speaker or headphone then it does on the hd800s. This is true of many other hip-hop songs. I guess it comes down to your priorities, the sub bass is clear and present enough below 100 hz it just lacks the punch found in the mid bass. The hd800s are a great headphone for hip-hop and house. It just might not be the best choice for only that. I listen to primarily drum and bass, classical, reggae, hiphop, metal, and disco. They all sound wonderful on these headphones, It's not like you have to listen to orchestra music to get the most out of them, you just have to eq them. They are no where near as bass light as electrostatic headphones, with the exception of the HE1...
There are cheaper amp pairings. I have now a topping a90 for power and to tame the highs a little and I have a cheap tube pre amp with analogue eq and tubes for the same price 😅 All in all my whole setup is way cheaper than my totl hp and I still love the 800 for the reasons mentioned in the Video
The preamp won’t really improve the HD800s as what make them sound good has to do with the voltage swing on an OTL tube amp. Tube preamp will give up some of the sound characteristics of a tube amp but that’s a trick to use with planar as planar don’t go as well with the way OTL tube amp drive. So if you really want to experience what the hd800s can deliver it’s an OTL tube amp and not a tube amp to a solid state
Thanks for the review - I'm really considering buying these. Do you think they would work well with the Schiit Bifrost 2 DAC and Schiit Jotunheim 2 amp? Or maybe the Schiit Lyr 3 amp?
In the Gold Sennheiser video, you mentioned placing some felt behind the ear in the earcups of the HD800S. What became of that mod in this review? I imagine it was for the peak mentioned in the headphone?
Have you had a chance of testing the new 800S made in Ireland? Apparently they're different from the German ones... I've never been able to test a German made pair and some of the issues described on every review I read or watch online are completely different from my experience with an Irish pair... Not sure if they're just that much different or if this comes down to personal preference.
@S M thanks! I've got a 43xxx made in Ireland too and from what I've been seeing online it doesn't seem to be just a unit difference... Everyone I've seen talking about the Irish made ones are reporting the same thing. It does indeed seem like something changed on the manufacturing of the driver. I'm dying to test a German one to see if my experience matches the reviews because so far the Irish one is nowhere near as bad as some reviewers make it sound like... It's not a planar but don't feel like it lacks any bass at all and even though I'm VERY sensitive to high pitch noises I don't find them shouty or fatiguing at all... I've been daily driving them for a couple weeks now and I'm loving them to death.
Completely agree with this. Only had them a couple of weeks, coming from Focal Clear MG. With a small amount of EQ from a Mojo2 amazed how much bass you can pull out of them
Lmfao i own HD800 for 10 years i guess, dusted it off found it broke its cable, replaced it with a cable that is 1/100th price of its knockoff female connector, still sound great. Statement on build quality
@@256alexdt lot of people disagree with that... you can eq the original 800 to sound how ever you want if you know how and have the proper equipment... look up 3d sound shop to hear how they eq the 800... there was zero need to make design changes to the latest headphone..
@@dixter1652 that is untrue the fatigue didn’t come from what people think, the fatigue came from how the sound bounce around in the cup. You can EQ them to hell and they will still create some fatigue and now sound like trash(after all the eq to compensate for the peak). The isolation they added in the HD8XX remove what make the headphone fatiguing but and when you EQ them you get all the benefits. It’s coming from someone will all the equipment needed trust me and a large collection of headphones which includes both the hd800s and hd8xx. Even EQ and driven by my OTL tube amp the HD800s is still fatiguing after some hours of listening and this is fact backed up by thousands of forums post and my own testing. The HD8XX had zero complaints of fatigue and once EQ have all the benefits of the HD800s with a slight lost in soundstage(very minimal) … sounds like magic rme adi-2 to my OTL tube amp(dreams)
I've been in this hobby for a few years now..and have yet to get a clear breakdown of the sound chart. It would be helpful if you could actually point to the specific points you're discussing on the chart please
What model should l buy for tracking and mixing into my studio? I do love to compose and record neo-classical style, hard/pop rock, smooth jazz as well…- so l really go back and forth of a few good and we’ll known models/brands (l won’t name them, you know what l’m thinking…)- and focal … Any suggestions? Let’s say l wanna stay in the $1500-$2000 range… - Thank you
Im curious: I see everyone talking about tube amps and EQing your headphones, but IS IT POSSIBLE to simply plug these in via 3.5mm to your iPhone and just listen to music while walking around campus, work, etc?
I think the treble peak is way over blown. Which is barely a bump and only a bump depending on what you are comparing to. If you compare it to real life, play a song on a instrument. Play back the recording. It is very close to real life. If anything a bit less sharp and more smoothed over.
@coloradoing9172 It's less about EQ to taste and more about how over exaggerated the brightness is. When I first heard the HD800s, after years of hearing how bright it was supposed to be. It wasn't anywhere close to it in reality. It's this echo chamber effect. One person says something. By the time it passes along through 100 people the message. You would think the HD800s is treble murder.
@@johnrus7661 Well, that really depends on one's sensitivity to treble. You might not be sensitive to it, but many others have said that it's a problem for them. My point is that it's irrelevant because it's easily fixed with EQ or the SDR mod.
@coloradoing9172 You clearly did not read what I said. I already made the distinction between personal preference and what's actually legitimately bright. Slightly bright or treble murder. And this headphone has been maligned like no other.
@@johnrus7661 Um, no, you said the treble wasn't an issue for you and used that as a basis to say that the treble is over-exaggerated by other people. That is literally what you said. I have repeatedly said that regardless of personal preference, it can be EQd out. How this very simple fact triggers you so much is beyond me.
personally i found the hifiman ear cup comfort to ruin the experience so i returned them, i also felt like the soundstage was "weird" it wasnt WIDE WIDE nor it wasnt intimate? like it just felt off, it wasnt either wide like the 800s or intimate like the focal clear, but it was just this weird middle where it felt off so i returned them.@@Lychegsye-nc6td
This is why i'd rather just opt for the DT1990 Pro instead. the 800 S almost had me, but the bass is kind of lacking, and supposedly if you boost it a little with EQ it becomes muddled, which isn't the case with the 1990
the hifiman headbands are perfect, however the weird earcup size /shape was unbearable for me so i returned them. best headband i’ve experienced yet tho, shame the ear cups are so weird , maybe if you have a large head it will be fine
Hey, cool vid DMS. I'm currently with Hifiman Ananda and THX 887 amp, but really want to spend some money to get HD800S. I usually listen to classic rock, metal and other genres, but got a bit concerned now with your review. Do you think this is really a showstopper, or an equalizer like eqMac solves the bass roll-off? All the reviews says a ton about it's soundstage and I really want to try the best possible XD. Thanks!
The 800s is not really good for classic rock or metal. I would either get the og focal clear or the lcd x for those genres since they are warmer and have way better bass and slam.
Here's the deciding factor. HD800S will be similar in tuning to your ananda but with less sub bass. You CAN EQ it, but if you're looking for a different sound or something more "full" in the bass I would go for an LCD instead. That said, there's no substitute for HD800S' soundstage. Hard choice.
Thanks for the answer, before Ananda I have a he400se but pads touches my earlobes, so was checking something comfortable like Ananda with more separation and clarity. Would LCD meets comfort and an upgrade in details? Thanks
@@marcus_mota LCD headphones are great with the exception that they are quite heavy. Pads and headband are nice (plenty of space in the pads) but weight is a concern if you’re sensitive to that. Edit: i feel like an LCD is an upgrade in technical performance over ananda but it depends on who you ask.
I'd love to see a review of the Precide Ergo 1, 2, and/or AMT; interestingly enough, they are still in production and I think it would be a pretty cool watch.
i run my 800s on a xduoo ta26 (5692 6080 tube) with ares 2 dac, never will i sell them - i tried the lokius and didn't like what it did to the sound, lokius is fine on other rigs tho - use roon for eq
I am using wooaudio wa3 6080 tube changed into 7236 and 6dj8 sound very good. The dac using Meridian explorer2 with 24 bit 44.1 kHz Best sound quality. Higher kHZ like 24 bit 192kHz have a little noise and less bass but dynamic range wider
Very good review and i got to say you have the looks for beeing an actor, and your voice are nice and clean. Have you ever wonderd about a carrer as an actor??
Arya stealth doesn't sound like an 800s. Get an Arya V2 for something more similar but with other advantages and disadvantages. Biggest drawback of the 800s is bass. They can't compete with a planar, not even close. EQ doesn't change that and planars can also be equalised...
@@256alexdt well... for me it does not. On a technical level it's impressive, especially if you can catch it on sale. But musical enjoyment and genre versatility isn't on a level I'd expect at this (price) point.
My only problem with mine is that it always feels very loose on my head, like it's ready to slide off at any time.. That, and the right side adjustment slider is too loose for my liking.
That' s a really good question, truly. Here's another question: what are the go-to stacks or amp+dac for these headohones? lol. No seriously i've been stuck with my btr5 for 2 months now, since i can't really decide among all the options. For jazz, classical, chamber and symphonic music: solely music made with acoustic instruments.
@@enjoshi-godrez8775 I'll surely upgrade over time as i plan to use these headphones for years if not decades, but for the moment i was wondering what was the first most sensible purchase, regardless of the budget. If i had to throw there a budget, i'd say something between the 200 - 600€ range (including budget for a cheaper OTL amp, as DMS suggested). I heard good things of the ifi Signature with the HD800s, but i don't know if that company does honor warranties and seems like they're pretty against users self-replacing the battery, which is a big no in my book (in comparison the xduoo XD05-Bal is supposed to be taken apart to change op-amps, has a switch to change how it's powered, battery or cable).
Yeah it's worth it I am playing hunt showdown and Apex legends competitive with them and they are awesome . For music listening I don't like them...they are boring a bit unless you EQ them . I recommend getting the Meze Empyrean for music listening instead
Removal of the tape inside the cubs? I am not going to touch my 8xx. For me they sound much better than the 800s. Treble on the 800s is sibilant and sounds more unnatural than the 8xx even with the 2k dip. I cloud not listen to the 800s for longer than 15 min, too fatiguing.
It is good for gaming, I used them last night during a minecraft session where I placed over 10000 cobblestone blocks. Thanks to its soundstage and imaging, I heard exactly where I placed each cobblestone block.
Ah yes... the $1200 headphones and most likely also thousands of dollars gaming PC to play....
Minecraft.
Username checks out
Due to the Treble detail of the HD800s I always know exactly where the creeper sizzle comes from
@@ReaktormanNr1 lmaooo
@@mitch7918$1,800
So happy about the collaboration, the only thing that "bothered" me about DMS was that he didn't do "enough" headphone reviews. From past purchases I know that I almost always share his opinion, because of that I value it by far the most out of the bigger review channels. Absolute W for all parties.
TF ist die Gang
I love my HD 800 S headphones. I’ve had them for about a year. I use them with a Meridian Prime headphone amp which has the special power supply. I do listen to classical (mostly 20C) and jazz a lot. Recently I’ve been listening to a lot of electronica because it relates to a project I’m doing and, yes, they are really good for that as well. I’ve also listened to quite a lot of prog rock on them and I think they are really good with that as well. What I find they don’t do well with is dance music where that thunderous driving bass is required. You just need another set of headphones for that.
I would never sell my HD 800 S headphones. I think they might be the best audio product I have ever purchased. They are so comfortable and light as well. I just love ‘em!
You nailed it!
I'm so glad you did this! The HD600 was my first professinal headphone (I still have my original ones!), and I have owned an HD800S for several years as well. Everything you say is reflected in my own experience, but you add a lot more knowledge with both your subjective comments and the measurements. I really appriciate that. I've switched more to LCD in the past year, the LCD-X first, and the LCD-4z when I got an email from LCD offering a B-Stock one for half-price. Both have the exceptional bass I crave, and the 4z comes pretty close to the detail and clarity of the HD800S. Great to see you making more You Tube content now with this channel as well as your original one!
Do you remember the difference when you switched from hd600 to hd800s? It will happen to me soon, so i just want some spoilers 😂
Totally agree with DMS about pairing the HD800S with an OTL amp. I had an HD800 w/SDR mod a couple years ago and always struggled with the lack of bass and peaky treble. I was using it with a hybrid tube amp and a Schiit Jot 2. Then last year I got an OTL tube amp and an HD800S, and I'm in heaven. I have a ZMF Aeolus, but I use the HD800S about 75% of the time.
OTL are useless electronics (like all tubes) for anyone who can use EQ.
It all pairs well with vintage SS amps built for higher impedance phones as well. I get way more thick, gooey bass out of it from my 1980s Luxman R-115 than even my Sony Tazzy which is already a bassy warm amp as it is.
Does it sound warmer because of the second harmonics or because of rolled off treble? This is one route I have always hesitated to go down on, so I welcome the info.
Finally the HD800S review he’s been talking about for months!
The HD 800S were on sale for 959 € like a day ago in the Sennheiser online store... and of course I bought one ;)
And did you got them? Mine got canceled.... :(
@@johnsysays You need EQ for the HD 800s. When you dont use EQ this Headphone sounds boring and bright. I use my RME ADI 2 DAC/AMP with EQ to avoid audio delay for gaming. Everything else is not a option for me anymore... I can listen to all types of musik after the right EQ settings. HD800S can take it well and need it.
Fantastic pairing in my opinion: HD800s + Violectric V280 + Qutest
I really love these and the normal HD800 without the S too. Probably because I have about -10dB dip in the general area of 6kHz of my hearing. So I'm immune of that 6kHz bump. So to me these sound really good and many others sound quite dark or muddy.
How did you even measure that -10dB hearing loss on 6kHz?
@@egeakbaba2935 I didn't measure it. A doctors did it several times. It has been done in a sound proof room which had another room inside of it to get rid of all the other noses. Then they play you a very quiet tones and you press a button when you hear it. It has been done like 10 years ago in an certain interval. As they were concerned that I might lose my hearing. Only around the 6kHz is lost. I really do not remember the actual decibels but it was a LOT. Probably a really much more than 10dB. And I still do not hear it almost at all.
The muddy of a sounds in music sits between 200hz to 500hz
I don’t have the S version but I’m contrarian and picked up the original 800 on eBay and love it, I’m not noticing this spike everyone complains about. I also love the HD820 even though it makes people put up crosses and stakes, it almost makes me want to get the HD8xx for laughs if it wasn’t so much money for a marginal sidegrade.
@@randomdriver audiogram test?
I need an HD25 review from y'all. Criminally underrepresented in good video reviews in general.
That headphone was 'in' about 10 years ago when On-Ears were all the rage, but completely dropped off the map since then. I personally preferred the Beyer DT1350 over it at the time.
Absolutely they are worth every penny! I have had them for a almost 2 years and paired with a Neve RNHP and a Topping DX7pro, I have been very satisfied with the setup. I recommend the Neve especially.
I've had mine since 2017 now. The wires give out but the headphone stays strong and comfortable. Bought them for gaming, stayed for the music.
Do you mind sharing your setup - i'm just using my cobalt dragonfly as a simple DAC for gaming
As a classical aficionado, I think bass is underrated for the genre. A bass-light headphone is NOT suited to classical for me. Cellos, contrabasses, and percussion really benefit from a deep subbass and midbass response, making orchestral and chamber music sound really deep and grounded. Classical can tend towards shriekiness, especially in violins, if things are too bright.
I’m no aficionado, but I 100% agree!
The chain you use can improve the 800S tone though. What headphone do you use ?
Those that think with classical music bass isn't equally necessary clearly just listen to it occasionally and aren't much involved with it... like those people whose only classical music in their libraries are "classical music to relax" "classical music to focus" "classical for children" playlists, rather than albumbs based on musicians, orchestras... the actual people playing.
true
@@Smood47 MDR-Z1R, using the WM1A Walkman as my source.
Nice review; I bought mine last year, and yes! is my best headphone for chill out and relax, comfort is the king, paired with the mids and soundstage, takes any stress away.....
but Tube amp? nah, not for me, even if really sounds better in a AB testing, the fact that I know I am adding distortion and harmonics to my music makes the experience.........artificial
@@Lauren080508 tube amps don't sound artificial actually (I personnaly think and many others) the opposite... most good tube amps have distortion levels which are on normal listening levels burried under/in the noise floor (the sound of outside and general background noise) so you don't even hear it nor it contributes to the sound much if it all...
@@skandiaart possible ,it is true most people think tube sound comes from adding second harmonics to the music, anyway I was talking about my own experience while listening to music. In my 20s I was in a band, i know how instrument sound live, I want that, a perfect representation, as if I were in the recording studio while the musicians do their thing, i don't want anything "artificial" added by electronics, your previous experience and knowledge affect how you perceive things.
Just the fact that we're reviewing it again in 2022 is all you need to know lol.
Also, Bottlehead Crackatwoa with the HD800S is just stupidly good and doesn't break the bank.
Very truthful review! My best choice for the HD800s are Ares II and Burson Soloist 3X Performance with linear power.
Glad to see you're part of the Headphone Show now! Love your thorough review and aesthetic presentation.
I'd like to see a review and comparison of the Grado RS1X and RS2X. People seem to like them but I'm not necessarily keen on taking impressions from the 'Grado people'.
Also I'd love to see a review of the Audeze MX4 and maybe how the a used LCD-4 stacks up against the Heddphone or the MX4.
Agreed. Curious about the Grados myself. My first headphone was a Grado and I'm curious but hesitant how the brand would hold up after trying a bit of everything else.
@@ResilientME just get a pair of SR80x or even the SR60x. It'll give you the Grado house sound for cheap...most of the difference between Grado models is in the pads. The house sound is nice for the budget range but not necessarily worth the price premium for the high end models.
First time I've heard DMS do a review. More please!!!
Woah. I had to double check who uploaded this! Alright! Alright! 👍🏻
I've been using Sennheiser headphones for the past 4 years for gaming/music on my desktop. I started with the Hd6xx then used the hd700 for 3 2 years. I've been using the Hd8xx since they launched and now I have the Hd800s. I've been absolutely in love with the hd8xx/Hd800s the comfort and sound are unmatched.
Do you run these off an external amp from your desktop pc? If so, my I ask which one?
@@isaaclenihan7366 Yes. I use the Ifi Zen Dac 2. It's fairly cheap and drives them very well.
@@tallguyericreviews Thanks for this info. I also have the Zen DAC V2 (what a fantastic little box it is), and I was wondering if they’d drive the 800S well or not. Do you use the high gain setting for them?
I’m currently looking for trading in towards the 800S.
Definitely agree about ambient music, I use mine for psytrance ambient and they're magnificent 👌 but also Definitely classical and soundtracks, especially love the Thin Redline soundtrack on them.
Also been running them on the new IFI Go Blue
I didn't know Eddie Redmayne did reviews, cool.
That headphones looks awesome
Is this a sign? I just got the Element III, and I have been seriously pondering on getting the HD800s. Now hearing how well they pair, I might have to buy them.
I see DMS, I click play. Great video as always!
I upgraded from my SteelSeries Pro Wireless to the HD800S for FPS gaming and as my first audiophile headphone. I'm driving them with a GoXLR and Schiit Valhalla 2 (tube amp). Although I probably perform the same at the end of the day, I definitely notice a better placement of sound and overall quality for games like Escape from Tarkov. This is the only headphone that I've tried that is comfier than the SteelSeries as well. Would highly recommend if you are looking to get the absolute most out of your hardware for gaming!
Pretty much same story as you, agreed. These are just so much better than anything else for gaming
I own 2 steel series pro and love them so much but I think Cosair top line doing better in comfort.Sadly Corsair battery suck so bad.
Love my HD800SDR on tubes; sounds great on my Valhalla 2, Lyr 3, and DNA Starlett.
Haven't been the biggest fan of using it for solid state though (Jotunheim and Monolith THX 887). Exception for me is the Ragnarok 2 where it sounds pretty good.
I have the ragnarok as well and roll the different tubes, idk what I prefer but the solid state tubes do make these headphones more of an analytical listen with the precise detail
Bought some today ❤
Their look is timeless.
Great review, thanks!
My favorite headphone in my collection, still one of the best out there, especially after some EQ.
I legit owned and sold my 800s. I already know plenty about it, I'm just watching cause I enjoy DMS 👍.
with eq, all of the 8xx headphone variants are worthy of being in your collection...
Headphone show + DMS = worlds colliding.. Wonder if Raal SR1a or Mysphere 3.1/3.2 would have a wider stage than 800S.
Great vid! I currently use the Element II with my HD800S. Is the Element III worth the upgrade? Also, any recommendation for another set of headphone to pair with my HD 800s?
Probably not, unless you have notable and obvious volume control issues.
listening to this video on my HD800S -- worth it!
I'm going to buy these for Rainbow Six Siege, all I care for is sound direction and localisation.
Did you buy them?
Good morning ☕️..
Great review..but I’ll keep my 650’s ( on a tube amp) …this 800S’s are to rich for my blood.
Gone the IEM’s collection route.
Different tunings and fun ( without breaking the bank )
Take care 🍻
I kept my HD650 with EQ over the HD800s, which does many things excellently, but I don't like the soundstage effect and weak bass. Nothing bothers me with the HD650 and I've tested, used and owned several +k$ headphones.
@@hartyewh1 meh my 650 are pale in comparison on OTL tube amp when both are eq.
@@256alexdt Perhaps if one prefers tube amps, which I don't so much. Maybe some TOTL one might be nice, but I find the ones I've heard a bit messy sounding at least in the sub-300 price range.
@@hartyewh1 yes in honesty I never tried a sub 300$ otl tube amp. I made my own and the parts alone were like 1300$ that was without the tube. I did heard that some are decent like darkvoice but they measure meh and I never tried it
Also agree with another comment here. Please can you review and compare to Hifiman Edition XS, looking to get these soon
Great review...❗️👍
In a video not too long ago, you thoughtfully pointed out that listening to the same headphones for too long, even great ones, can essentially become a bit boring. What usual headphones might you want to switch to these from instead?
The thrill fades even after being an astronaut, so switch it up with farming or cans like sundara, focals and beats/xm4/airpods
@@haberdasherrykr8886 I never take TWS buds to space. The batteries will fail a mere 5 years into the mission and then one must endure the rest of the voyage in deject silence. 😵💫
@@GadZookz ahh yes abyss.
It will forever be relevant.
So the hd800s aren’t my only headphones, but they are certainly my only audiophile headphones. In fact, the only other headphones I own right now are the hd25s. I have had my eye on the ie300s since they went on sale at sennheiser. I went to buy them today and found they are sold out. I have had my hd800s for 11 months and they seduce me every time I put them on. I really hope I never have to sell them. As you can see, for at home use, these headphones completely satisfy my listening needs. I love listening to classical on them. The instrument separation is incredible, and they add an acoustic flavor to electronic music that I quite like! What you loose in bass you gain in speed…
I'm tempted to get this. I have quite a few cans but keep skipping this one . I have arya non stealth, clear mg, sony sa5000. Hd650
@@johnsysays With hip-hop It really depends on the song and how low the sub bass frequencies go. The mid bass is nice, clean and tight with a medium amount of punch, the sub bass however is what gives them that reputation. If you listen to a song like Clint Eastwood by the Gorillaz you might miss out on some of that low end rumble you would get with a sub woofer. This doesn't stop that song from being very enjoyable on the hd800s, especially with eq. Now take a more underground hip-hop tune, One Million Minds by Collective Efforts. I haven't heard that song sound better on any other speaker or headphone then it does on the hd800s. This is true of many other hip-hop songs. I guess it comes down to your priorities, the sub bass is clear and present enough below 100 hz it just lacks the punch found in the mid bass. The hd800s are a great headphone for hip-hop and house. It just might not be the best choice for only that. I listen to primarily drum and bass, classical, reggae, hiphop, metal, and disco. They all sound wonderful on these headphones, It's not like you have to listen to orchestra music to get the most out of them, you just have to eq them. They are no where near as bass light as electrostatic headphones, with the exception of the HE1...
HD800S is fabulous headphone for sure.
NEVER ever try it on when testing and shopping for headphones, you will not forget its sound and thus ruin your budget. lol!
Can you review the Hifiman Edition XS and suggest a cost-effective amp pairing?
Thanks
There are cheaper amp pairings.
I have now a topping a90 for power and to tame the highs a little and I have a cheap tube pre amp with analogue eq and tubes for the same price 😅
All in all my whole setup is way cheaper than my totl hp and I still love the 800 for the reasons mentioned in the Video
The preamp won’t really improve the HD800s as what make them sound good has to do with the voltage swing on an OTL tube amp. Tube preamp will give up some of the sound characteristics of a tube amp but that’s a trick to use with planar as planar don’t go as well with the way OTL tube amp drive. So if you really want to experience what the hd800s can deliver it’s an OTL tube amp and not a tube amp to a solid state
Thanks for the review - I'm really considering buying these. Do you think they would work well with the Schiit Bifrost 2 DAC and Schiit Jotunheim 2 amp? Or maybe the Schiit Lyr 3 amp?
How is it with female vocal, ie Kate Bush, Celina Dion, etc I own the Sennheiser HD660s so would it be worth an upgrade?
What was your thought about the $400 rebate code that Zeos got on the HD8xx? Finally makes them worth it?
Worth it with EQ and not fatiguing in comparison with the HD800s that I also own
MDR-XB1000 *70mm driver* - Soundstage MONSTER. 2-inch ear cushions.
These are my dream headphones, I so wanna buy one!!
which headphones do you recommend for movies only please?
I agree with that the headband padding is not quite comfortable, most pressure is on the top of my head.
In the Gold Sennheiser video, you mentioned placing some felt behind the ear in the earcups of the HD800S.
What became of that mod in this review? I imagine it was for the peak mentioned in the headphone?
I was wondering what would be another alternative for orchestral classical music ? Like hd600 or 650?
With EQ these headphones become ever better and are easily usable even for EDM and similar genres.
True i do eq them to
Why eq them?
@@jzg7890 Because they benefit from EQ, just like pretty much any headphone does.
@@rene837 You mean in terms of getting a flat frequency response? (eg. sonarworks)?
Have you had a chance of testing the new 800S made in Ireland? Apparently they're different from the German ones... I've never been able to test a German made pair and some of the issues described on every review I read or watch online are completely different from my experience with an Irish pair... Not sure if they're just that much different or if this comes down to personal preference.
@S M thanks! I've got a 43xxx made in Ireland too and from what I've been seeing online it doesn't seem to be just a unit difference... Everyone I've seen talking about the Irish made ones are reporting the same thing. It does indeed seem like something changed on the manufacturing of the driver. I'm dying to test a German one to see if my experience matches the reviews because so far the Irish one is nowhere near as bad as some reviewers make it sound like... It's not a planar but don't feel like it lacks any bass at all and even though I'm VERY sensitive to high pitch noises I don't find them shouty or fatiguing at all... I've been daily driving them for a couple weeks now and I'm loving them to death.
Completely agree with this. Only had them a couple of weeks, coming from Focal Clear MG. With a small amount of EQ from a Mojo2 amazed how much bass you can pull out of them
Amazing with Feliks Audio Euforia.
Lmfao i own HD800 for 10 years i guess, dusted it off found it broke its cable, replaced it with a cable that is 1/100th price of its knockoff female connector, still sound great. Statement on build quality
Currently wearing these, not sure why I'm even watching lol
The validation. Like half of the viewers.
You're watching to justify your purchase
@@allen0088 Naw, they were justified the first song I listened to. I'm subscribed and watch every video anyway.
@@xSociety So then this OP is a moot point 🤔
What cables is he using with his HD800s? The red looks sharp.
so drop takes a perfectly working HD800 and turns it into the frankenstein HD800... why why why
They’re good and even better then 800s once eq
@@256alexdt lot of people disagree with that... you can eq the original 800 to sound how ever you want if you know how and have the proper equipment... look up 3d sound shop to hear how they eq the 800... there was zero need to make design changes to the latest headphone..
@@dixter1652 that is untrue the fatigue didn’t come from what people think, the fatigue came from how the sound bounce around in the cup. You can EQ them to hell and they will still create some fatigue and now sound like trash(after all the eq to compensate for the peak). The isolation they added in the HD8XX remove what make the headphone fatiguing but and when you EQ them you get all the benefits. It’s coming from someone will all the equipment needed trust me and a large collection of headphones which includes both the hd800s and hd8xx. Even EQ and driven by my OTL tube amp the HD800s is still fatiguing after some hours of listening and this is fact backed up by thousands of forums post and my own testing. The HD8XX had zero complaints of fatigue and once EQ have all the benefits of the HD800s with a slight lost in soundstage(very minimal) … sounds like magic rme adi-2 to my OTL tube amp(dreams)
@@256alexdt seems your still not catchin on... oh well
@@dixter1652 lol whatever my dude enjoy your Sundara and leave the big boys play with the big boys headphones
I've been in this hobby for a few years now..and have yet to get a clear breakdown of the sound chart. It would be helpful if you could actually point to the specific points you're discussing on the chart please
Can we taylor our subscription for the dms episodes?
I think if I get these, Focal Clears, the Sony MDR-Z1Rs and then eventually the HE-1s... should be good.
Fantastic headphones and where to find them
What model should l buy for tracking and mixing into my studio? I do love to compose and record neo-classical style, hard/pop rock, smooth jazz as well…- so l really go back and forth of a few good and we’ll known models/brands (l won’t name them, you know what l’m thinking…)- and focal … Any suggestions? Let’s say l wanna stay in the $1500-$2000 range… - Thank you
Dms, do a revoew on the Focal Stellia headphone please. I want to know if I should buy it.
Is this just a review or do we get the answer to this title?
Solid DMS bass boast for this channel.
would u use the 800s (maybe with EQ) if you listen to pop and vocals mostly?
or u wouldnt pick the 800s for this purpose at all?
Im curious: I see everyone talking about tube amps and EQing your headphones, but IS IT POSSIBLE to simply plug these in via 3.5mm to your iPhone and just listen to music while walking around campus, work, etc?
I think the treble peak is way over blown. Which is barely a bump and only a bump depending on what you are comparing to.
If you compare it to real life, play a song on a instrument. Play back the recording. It is very close to real life. If anything a bit less sharp and more smoothed over.
EQ makes the whole treble peak moot anyway.
@coloradoing9172 It's less about EQ to taste and more about how over exaggerated the brightness is.
When I first heard the HD800s, after years of hearing how bright it was supposed to be. It wasn't anywhere close to it in reality.
It's this echo chamber effect. One person says something. By the time it passes along through 100 people the message. You would think the HD800s is treble murder.
@@johnrus7661 Well, that really depends on one's sensitivity to treble. You might not be sensitive to it, but many others have said that it's a problem for them. My point is that it's irrelevant because it's easily fixed with EQ or the SDR mod.
@coloradoing9172 You clearly did not read what I said.
I already made the distinction between personal preference and what's actually legitimately bright. Slightly bright or treble murder. And this headphone has been maligned like no other.
@@johnrus7661 Um, no, you said the treble wasn't an issue for you and used that as a basis to say that the treble is over-exaggerated by other people. That is literally what you said. I have repeatedly said that regardless of personal preference, it can be EQd out. How this very simple fact triggers you so much is beyond me.
with eq, is it better than arya?
not really comparable
nvm i bought both n alrdy compared XD
what was ur opinions@@Lychegsye-nc6td
personally i found the hifiman ear cup comfort to ruin the experience so i returned them, i also felt like the soundstage was "weird" it wasnt WIDE WIDE nor it wasnt intimate? like it just felt off, it wasnt either wide like the 800s or intimate like the focal clear, but it was just this weird middle where it felt off so i returned them.@@Lychegsye-nc6td
So what would you recommend for 1/16th the price?
To me personally that bass roll-off is very acceptable. Not for THIS price though, Sennheiser should be ashamed.
This is why i'd rather just opt for the DT1990 Pro instead. the 800 S almost had me, but the bass is kind of lacking, and supposedly if you boost it a little with EQ it becomes muddled, which isn't the case with the 1990
It's the price for pushing sounds away creating big sound stage
For someone who is sensitive to top pressure would you maybe recommend the hifiman arya stealth as the number 2 choice for soundstage behind this?
the hifiman headbands are perfect, however the weird earcup size /shape was unbearable for me so i returned them. best headband i’ve experienced yet tho, shame the ear cups are so weird , maybe if you have a large head it will be fine
What would be the second best headphones for gaming? I need a little more Bass and I'm far too sensitive to bright treble.
pc38x
Hey, cool vid DMS. I'm currently with Hifiman Ananda and THX 887 amp, but really want to spend some money to get HD800S. I usually listen to classic rock, metal and other genres, but got a bit concerned now with your review. Do you think this is really a showstopper, or an equalizer like eqMac solves the bass roll-off? All the reviews says a ton about it's soundstage and I really want to try the best possible XD. Thanks!
The 800s is not really good for classic rock or metal. I would either get the og focal clear or the lcd x for those genres since they are warmer and have way better bass and slam.
Here's the deciding factor. HD800S will be similar in tuning to your ananda but with less sub bass. You CAN EQ it, but if you're looking for a different sound or something more "full" in the bass I would go for an LCD instead. That said, there's no substitute for HD800S' soundstage. Hard choice.
Thanks for the answer, before Ananda I have a he400se but pads touches my earlobes, so was checking something comfortable like Ananda with more separation and clarity. Would LCD meets comfort and an upgrade in details? Thanks
@@marcus_mota LCD headphones are great with the exception that they are quite heavy. Pads and headband are nice (plenty of space in the pads) but weight is a concern if you’re sensitive to that.
Edit: i feel like an LCD is an upgrade in technical performance over ananda but it depends on who you ask.
@@DMS3TV million thanks! You rock
Please review the Warwick acoustics bravura headphone system 🙏🙂
Video comes out as I'm considering getting one....
I'd love to see a review of the Precide Ergo 1, 2, and/or AMT; interestingly enough, they are still in production and I think it would be a pretty cool watch.
i run my 800s on a xduoo ta26 (5692 6080 tube) with ares 2 dac, never will i sell them - i tried the lokius and didn't like what it did to the sound, lokius is fine on other rigs tho - use roon for eq
I use my rme adi2 for eq with my otl tube amp (magical)
I am using wooaudio wa3 6080 tube changed into 7236 and 6dj8 sound very good. The dac using Meridian explorer2 with 24 bit 44.1 kHz Best sound quality. Higher kHZ like 24 bit 192kHz have a little noise and less bass but dynamic range wider
Very good review and i got to say you have the looks for beeing an actor, and your voice are nice and clean. Have you ever wonderd about a carrer as an actor??
Now that the Arya stealth is out, would you chose it over the HD800S?
Arya stealth doesn't sound like an 800s. Get an Arya V2 for something more similar but with other advantages and disadvantages. Biggest drawback of the 800s is bass. They can't compete with a planar, not even close. EQ doesn't change that and planars can also be equalised...
@@joggometer5393 you can very well eq the hd800s … will it be better bass then a planar ? No, but it will beat most planar in everything else
@@256alexdt well... for me it does not. On a technical level it's impressive, especially if you can catch it on sale. But musical enjoyment and genre versatility isn't on a level I'd expect at this (price) point.
My only problem with mine is that it always feels very loose on my head, like it's ready to slide off at any time.. That, and the right side adjustment slider is too loose for my liking.
That' s a really good question, truly.
Here's another question: what are the go-to stacks or amp+dac for these headohones? lol.
No seriously i've been stuck with my btr5 for 2 months now, since i can't really decide among all the options.
For jazz, classical, chamber and symphonic music: solely music made with acoustic instruments.
That entirely depends on your budget. The hd800 because of its clarity will scale with souce equipment all the way to $5000+.
@@enjoshi-godrez8775 I'll surely upgrade over time as i plan to use these headphones for years if not decades, but for the moment i was wondering what was the first most sensible purchase, regardless of the budget.
If i had to throw there a budget, i'd say something between the 200 - 600€ range (including budget for a cheaper OTL amp, as DMS suggested).
I heard good things of the ifi Signature with the HD800s, but i don't know if that company does honor warranties and seems like they're pretty against users self-replacing the battery, which is a big no in my book (in comparison the xduoo XD05-Bal is supposed to be taken apart to change op-amps, has a switch to change how it's powered, battery or cable).
Is this a good headset for Gaming ? Specially for something like FPS Games .
overkill af
Can anyone tell if Moondrop aria(iem) is better than Sony XM4 over the ear headphones? Just based on pure audio output/quality 🙂
DMS, Sennheiser HD800s vs HEDDphone video please. Thank you.
Wearing them as I listen to this video. In short Yes absolutely worth it
If you wold compare them with the AKG K702 are they on plane level?
i wanna hear DMS opinion on the arya
Man am I glad I wasn’t cursed with over analyzing everything like that. Would prove to be very costly and time consuming
Better then Audeze LCD GX for gaming?
most hyped
Yeah it's worth it I am playing hunt showdown and Apex legends competitive with them and they are awesome . For music listening I don't like them...they are boring a bit unless you EQ them . I recommend getting the Meze Empyrean for music listening instead
DMS can you do some comparisons next time ?
About how many mw would i need to drive these effectively for gaming?
Y'all should do a review of the hd8xx with the sticker mod removal and compare to hd800s.
Removal of the tape inside the cubs? I am not going to touch my 8xx. For me they sound much better than the 800s. Treble on the 800s is sibilant and sounds more unnatural than the 8xx even with the 2k dip. I cloud not listen to the 800s for longer than 15 min, too fatiguing.
@@matthiasbroek8055 exactly the same as me. I did EQ my HD8xx using my adi-2 and it sounds better than the hd800s in my opinion