Key Takeaways
1. Custom Sound Quality: The HD 550 headphones feature a custom-designed 38mm transducer, offering a frequency range from 6 Hz to 39.5 kHz and low total harmonic distortion.
2. Comfortable Design: Weighing 237 grams, these headphones have breathable metal mesh earcups and a gentle clamp force, making them suitable for long listening sessions.
3. Modular Features: The modular design allows for easy replacement of cables and earpads, enhancing user convenience and customization.
4. Target Audience: The HD 550 is designed for both audiophiles and gamers, providing clear spatial audio, rich bass, and balanced sound.
5. Pricing and Availability: The headphones are available for pre-order at $299.95 USD, with shipping starting in the first week of April.
Sennheiser has launched the HD 550, a pair of open-back headphones that cater to audiophiles and gamers who value clear sound, comfort, and a deeply engaging listening experience.
Specifications and Features
The HD 550 features a custom-designed 38mm transducer made at Sennheiser’s facility in Ireland, providing a frequency range from 6 Hz to 39.5 kHz with a total harmonic distortion of less than 0.2%. With an impedance of 150 ohms, these headphones work well with various audio devices, including Sennheiser’s HDV 820 amplifier. The open-back style, paired with an acoustic mesh, enhances airflow and enriches the soundstage, while the angled drivers create a more natural listening experience.
Design and Comfort
Klaus Hanselmann, who is the Audiophile Product Manager at Sennheiser, describes this model as a mix of detail and comfort: “The HD 550 offers precise sound, rich bass, and a lightweight design—ideal for extended listening periods.” Weighing in at 237 grams (8.4 oz), the headphones have a gentle clamp force, breathable metal mesh earcups, and a robust headband that ensures longevity. Gamers will appreciate the clear spatial audio, and music lovers can look forward to balanced mids and accurate transients.
Modularity and Accessories
The modular design means users can easily change cables and earpads. The package comes with a 1.8-meter cable featuring both 3.5mm and 6.35mm adapters, and there are additional balanced or microphone-compatible cables available for purchase separately.
Pricing and Release Date
The HD 550 is currently available for pre-order, with shipping set to begin in the first week of April. The starting price is $299.95 USD ($399.95 CAD). Last month, Sennheiser also released the HD 505 open-back headphones. These headphones come equipped with a 120-ohm transducer, a frequency range of 12–38,500 Hz, and provide a wide soundstage. Their price is EUR 279.90 / USD 249.95, and they can be purchased through Amazon and Sennheiser’s official website.
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