Sennheiser’s new wired headphones look like comfortable audiophile cans, ready for travel

Sennheiser has the HD-620Sthe latest headphones that try to find a balance between performance, noise isolation and comfort.

This model is a bit of an odd one out, but in a good way. The line it is part of, the HD 600 series, consists entirely of open-back headphones. These are great at outputting high quality audio. However, they are not very good at blocking outside noise, making them unsuitable for travel. The HD 620S swims against the current by being closed-back headphones. Devices with this design are much better at preventing sound from leaking in.

The company states that the cup lids are reinforced with steel that acts as “an efficient insulator.” Each unit houses a 42mm dynamic transducer with a 38mm diaphragm that engulfs the listener in a bubble of sound. Additionally, 150 ohm aluminum voice coils provide crisp vocal clarity and accurate output. The result is high-quality headphones that can cover a wide range of audio. Sennheiser even claims they have a louder bass response than the HD 600, headphones that can reportedly reproduce “lifelike sound.”

A comfortable fit

One of the problems with closed-ear headphones is that they can be uncomfortable to wear. Their insulating design prevents air from flowing, which can lead to hot and sweaty ears. However, the HD 620S is also aimed at delivering a comfortable experience that is more like open-ear headphones. Sennheiser says the combination of “spacious earcup covers and the flexible ear cushions” allows for good ventilation so heat isn’t retained. Like the cup covers, the headband is made of reinforced steel for long-term durability. They are also lightweight, with the entire package weighing 670 grams (about 1.5 pounds).

Pre-orders for the Sennheiser HD 620S are currently open. You can buy a pair for $349.95/£299.99/€599.95. The shipping date is set for June 6. When you purchase you will receive a 6 foot (1.8 meter) cable. In the next few months, all audiophiles will be able to purchase an optional 4.4mm balanced cable for even better sound quality.

Analysis: Good first impression

You can consider these headphones as an all-rounder. In the announcement, Sennheiser mentions how the HD 620S “combines the DNA of the HD 600 and 500 series and brings together the best of both” worlds. But will being a Master of All be good enough? Could this herald a new era of headphones, bringing the best aspects of open- and closed-ear designs into one? Maybe. It will at least come close.

Ny Breaking’s audio editor Becky Scarrott recently had the chance to try out the HD 620S and her first impressions were positive. She said, “They feel incredibly light to hold and (wear),” and said the padding on the headband “is exceptional.” On performance, Becky said the “levels of detail are also excellent”. They are on the same level as the HD 600. She concludes by saying: “First signs are good!”