OVERALL

SPECS

VS AVERAGE

REVIEWS

ALTERNATIVES

Sennheiser HD 550 Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price in UK: ~£210
Avg. price in US: ~$200
Form factor: over-ear
Connectivity: wired
Battery life: N/A hours
Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Sennheiser HD 550 review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.6

Poor

3.8

Poor

7.5

Very good

2.8
Gaming
Score components:
35.0%
0.0
Audio latency
25.0%
0.0
Low-latency game mode
20.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
12.0%
7.0
Noise-canceling microphone
8.0%
0.0
Battery life
1.1
Travel
Score components:
28.0%
1.0
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
24.0%
0.0
Battery life
18.0%
4.7
Weight
16.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
14.0%
0.0
Ambient sound mode
4.4
Calls
Score components:
28.0%
7.0
Noise-canceling microphone
24.0%
10
Can be used as a headset
18.0%
0.0
Multipoint support
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
14.0%
0.0
Companion app
3.6
Workout
Score components:
28.0%
4.7
Weight
24.0%
1.0
Water resistance
20.0%
4.0
IP rating
16.0%
0.0
Battery life
12.0%
10
Can be used as a headset

Best prices in UK

Best rankings

Verdict

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an over-ear, open-back headphone featuring 38mm dynamic transducers that deliver a neutral, balanced frequency response from 6 Hz to 39.5 kHz. With a nominal impedance of 150 Ω and a sound pressure level of 106.7 dB, it provides an expansive 3D soundstage and exceptional midrange clarity with a total harmonic distortion of less than 0.2%. Main characteristics include a lightweight 237g plastic chassis, breathable synthetic velour ear pads, and angled drivers designed to mimic natural hearing. Pros include its high comfort for long sessions due to low clamping force, faithful audio reproduction suitable for both music and gaming, and a detachable modular cable design. Cons include a lack of noise isolation due to the open-back design, a potentially flimsy plastic feel, and a slightly intimate soundstage compared to wider alternatives.

Technical Specifications of Sennheiser HD 550

Overall score

4.6

Show more

Hide

Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.

Sound

4.1

Show more

Hide

Active noise cancellation (ANC)

What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology

When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

Driver type

What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used

When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic

Driver size

What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit

When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of drivers

What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup

When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

Lowest frequency

What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce

When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

Show more

Calls & Controls

4.2

Show more

Hide

Noise-canceling microphone

What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls

When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

?

Can be used as a headset

What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.

When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

Number of microphones

What it is: Total number of built-in microphones

When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

Boom microphone

What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity

When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

Microphone SNR

What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone

When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

N/A

Show more

Connectivity

2.9

Show more

Hide

Connectivity

What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)

When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

Bluetooth version

What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported

When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A

Maximum Bluetooth range

What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device

When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A

Audio latency

What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode

When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A

Multipoint support

What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices

When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Show more

Features

2.7

Show more

Hide

Ambient sound mode

What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness

When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

EQ support

What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer

When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

Companion app

What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates

When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A

Adjustable ANC levels

What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels

When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A

Voice assistant support

What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant

When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

Show more

Battery

1.0

Show more

Hide

Battery life

What it is: Playback time on a single charge

When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A

Battery life with ANC

What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled

When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A

Charging time

What it is: Time required for a full battery charge

When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A

Quick charge

What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period

When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

Battery capacity

What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery

When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A

Show more

Design

7.1

Show more

Hide

Brand name

What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.

When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Sennheiser

Form factor

What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)

When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear

Weight

What it is: Total weight of the headphones

When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

Acoustic design

What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)

When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

open-back

Clamp force

What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head

When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

Show more

Sennheiser HD 550 vs the average headphone

Why is Sennheiser HD 550 better than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

Hi-Res Audio certification
Sennheiser HD 550 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
What it is: Certified for high-resolution audio playback
When it matters: When official support for high-resolution playback matters to you.
Importance: LOW
Sennheiser HD 550 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
12 Hz lower bass extension
Sennheiser HD 550 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (6 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: <=10 Hz
Sennheiser HD 550 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (6 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.6 Hz vs 18 Hz
19,500 Hz higher treble extension
Sennheiser HD 550 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (39,500 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=24000 Hz
Sennheiser HD 550 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (39,500 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.39500 Hz vs 20000 Hz
1.8 lower clamp force
Sennheiser HD 550 has a lower clamp force than the average headphone (2.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sennheiser HD 550 has a lower clamp force than the average headphone (2.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.2.5 vs 4.3
11 mm more spacious earcup height
Sennheiser HD 550 offers more spacious earcup height than the average headphone (71 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
What it is: Internal height of the earcup cavity
When it matters: When larger ears need enough space inside the earcups.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sennheiser HD 550 offers more spacious earcup height than the average headphone (71 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.71 mm vs 60 mm
Open-back design
Sennheiser HD 550 uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones use an open-back housing that lets air and sound pass through more freely than a closed design.
When it matters: When you listen in quiet places and care more about spacious sound than blocking outside noise or preventing sound leakage.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sennheiser HD 550 uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
Rechargeable battery
Sennheiser HD 550 has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones rely on an internal rechargeable battery instead of replaceable disposable cells.
When it matters: When you expect regular wireless use and want charging convenience instead of buying and replacing disposable batteries.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sennheiser HD 550 has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
0.6 m more useful cable length
Sennheiser HD 550 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.8 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
What it is: Length of the supplied audio cable
When it matters: When your desk, TV, or audio setup needs more or less movement range.
Importance: LOW
Sennheiser HD 550 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.8 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.1.8 m vs 1.2 m
1.8 lower clamp force
Sennheiser HD 550 has a lower clamp force than the average headphone (2.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
11 mm more spacious earcup height
Sennheiser HD 550 offers more spacious earcup height than the average headphone (71 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
Open-back design
Sennheiser HD 550 uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
0.6 m more useful cable length
Sennheiser HD 550 offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (1.8 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
Hi-Res Audio certification
Sennheiser HD 550 has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average headphone does not. 22.9% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
12 Hz lower bass extension
Sennheiser HD 550 has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (6 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
19,500 Hz higher treble extension
Sennheiser HD 550 has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (39,500 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
Rechargeable battery
Sennheiser HD 550 has a rechargeable battery, the average headphone does not. 47.9% of headphones have a rechargeable battery.
8 years newer release date
Sennheiser HD 550 was released more recently than the average headphone (2,025 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.

Why is Sennheiser HD 550 worse than the average headphone?

Show more

Hide

8.7% higher weight
Sennheiser HD 550 is heavier than the average headphone (237 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
No passive noise reduction
Sennheiser HD 550 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
2 mm smaller driver size
Sennheiser HD 550 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (38 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Sennheiser HD 550 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
No neodymium magnet
Sennheiser HD 550 does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
No battery indicator
Sennheiser HD 550 does not show battery level clearly, while the average headphone does. 98.6% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
1 fewer microphones
Sennheiser HD 550 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
No voice assistant support
Sennheiser HD 550 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
No passive noise reduction
Sennheiser HD 550 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
What it is: Shows whether the headphones reduce outside noise through physical sealing, fit, and materials rather than active electronics.
When it matters: When you want better isolation from fit and seal alone, even with ANC turned off or not available.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sennheiser HD 550 does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
No voice assistant support
Sennheiser HD 550 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.
Importance: LOW
Sennheiser HD 550 does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
2 mm smaller driver size
Sennheiser HD 550 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (38 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.
Importance: MEDIUM
Sennheiser HD 550 has smaller driver size than the average headphone (38 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.38 mm vs 40 mm
1 fewer microphones
Sennheiser HD 550 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.
Importance: LOW
Good value: >=2
Sennheiser HD 550 has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
2 dB/mW lower sensitivity
Sennheiser HD 550 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: >=106 dB/mW
Sennheiser HD 550 has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.100 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
11.8% worse value for money
Sennheiser HD 550 has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.02 vs 6.736).
What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.
When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.
Sennheiser HD 550 has worse value for money than the average headphone (6.02 vs 6.736).6.02 vs 6.74
No neodymium magnet
Sennheiser HD 550 does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
What it is: Uses neodymium magnets for stronger, clearer sound
When it matters: When driver construction details are part of how you compare sound hardware.
Importance: LOW
Sennheiser HD 550 does not use neodymium magnets, the average headphone does. 77.4% of headphones use neodymium magnets.
No battery indicator
Sennheiser HD 550 does not show battery level clearly, while the average headphone does. 98.6% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
What it is: Shows remaining battery charge visually or audibly
When it matters: When you dislike unexpected shutdowns and want clearer warning before leaving home, boarding a flight, or joining a call.
Importance: LOW
Sennheiser HD 550 does not show battery level clearly, while the average headphone does. 98.6% of headphones have a battery level indicator.

Calls & Controls

Graphic comparison of Sennheiser HD 550 and

Attribute category

Attribute

No results found

Third-party reviews

United Kingdom

United States

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

What customers like about Sennheiser HD 550?

Balanced and neutral sound signature suitable for critical listening and gaming
Exceptional midrange clarity and vocal presence
Lightweight construction (237g) provides high long-term comfort
Improved bass extension compared to classic HD 600 series
Lower clamping force compared to the HD 560S
Spacious soundstage with accurate imaging and instrument separation
User-serviceable design with easily replaceable pads and cables

What customers dislike about Sennheiser HD 550?

Open-back design results in significant sound leakage and zero noise isolation
Lower-treble elevation (5-6 kHz) can sound 'gritty' or fatiguing to sensitive ears
Intimate soundstage width compared to some competitors
Mostly plastic build can feel slightly 'flimsy' or cheap
High impedance (150-ohm) requires a dedicated amplifier or DAC for optimal performance
Stock cable is noted by some users as being overly long or prone to tangling
Lack of a hard-shell carrying case at its price point

Expert reviews

hifioasis.com

11/06/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review - HiFi Oasis

The Sennheiser HD 550 open-back headphones provide exceptional versatility and sound quality for a retail price of $299.95. The audio performance is highly cohesive, featuring a clean mid-bass foundation, an exceptional midrange that delivers lifelike vocals, and a smooth treble that prevents fatigue. Thanks to angled 38mm dynamic drivers and an open-back design, they offer a wide...Read more

headfonics.com

24/05/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review - Headfonics

The Headfonics review rates the Sennheiser HD 550 an 8.1/10, identifying it as the best-sounding, most comfortable 150Ω open-back headphone in the HD 500 series. Key strengths include a neutral, well-extended tonality with vivid mids and a refined, ample bass response that corrects the deficiencies of earlier models. Conversely, the review notes a subpar, prone-to-tangling stock...Read more

majorhifi.com

02/05/2025

Sennnheiser HD 550 Review - Major HiFi

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a lightweight, open-back reference headphone designed for accurate, detailed audio and long critical listening or mixing sessions. Its main strengths lie in its high-grade metal mesh build, a redesigned headband, and softer ear cushions that provide an incredibly comfortable fit with no fatiguing clamp force. Sonically, it delivers a natural, evenly...Read more

soundgale.com

06/01/2026

Sennheiser HD 550 Review – open-back audiophile headphones Would you like a comparison of how this model differs from the older HD 560S or HD 505?

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a wired, open-back, over-ear audiophile headphone model that bridges the gap between budget and high-end options in the brand's lineup, striking an analytical yet comfortable "golden mean" in sound quality. It features a lightweight 237-gram plastic construction with comfortable synthetic velour ear pads that prevent overheating, alongside a detachable cable...Read more

musicphotolife.com

24/03/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review: New Reference Headphones in 2025

The Music Photo Life review highlights the Sennheiser HD 550 as a "new neutral" reference headphone, praising its well-balanced frequency distribution, commanding yet controlled bass, and warm, clean midrange. Its comfortable, lightweight chassis, inherited from the HD 505, is also lauded for enabling fatigue-free listening. However, the review notes that while the open-back design...Read more

t3.com

30/09/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 review: Admirable yet analytical

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an open-back, wired over-ear headphone model released in March 2025, priced at £249 / $299. Designed primarily for critical indoor listening, it features a 1.8m detachable cable with a click-and-twist 2.5mm jack that terminates in a 3.5mm connection, accompanied by a 6.3mm adapter. Audio is delivered through angled 38mm transducers that offer a 6Hz to 39kHz...Read more

techradar.com

23/05/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 review: near-perfect premium gaming audio

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a lightweight, open-back pair of headphones that delivers pure, audiophile-grade audio specifically tuned for immersive, single-player gaming across PC, PS5, and Xbox consoles. Weighing just 8.35oz (237g), the headset features a sleek, robust plastic frame with high-grade metal mesh cup covers, plush synthetic velour ear cushions, and a padded faux-leather...Read more

audioreviews.org

05/05/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Headphone REVIEW - Wolf In Sheep's Clothing

The AudioReviews.org review by JK describes the Sennheiser HD 550 as a "wolf in sheep's clothing," featuring the high-quality sound of the HD 600 series in a lightweight, comfortable HD 500 series chassis. It is praised for a well-balanced, punchy, and lean sound signature, with its primary pros being the fatigue-free ergonomics, strong transient energy, and high-quality audio...Read more

whathifi.com

02/06/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 review | What Hi-Fi?

The Sennheiser HD 550 consists of cabled, open-backed, over-ear headphones that deliver an exceptionally neutral and well-balanced analogue sound. The reviewer notes that they excel at extracting great sonic detail and handling deep bass impacts without slipping into harsh sibilance or causing listening fatigue. Designed primarily for solitary home listening, they leverage their...Read more

headfonia.com

26/07/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review - Headfonia

The Headfonia review characterizes the Sennheiser HD 550 as an engaging, musical, and comfortable open-back headphone, suitable for long listening sessions thanks to its lightweight design,, plush velour cushions, and excellent price-to-performance ratio. Key sonic advantages include a spacious, natural midrange, clean bass that thrives with tube amplification, and smooth,...Read more

crutchfield.com

09/01/2026

Sennheiser HD 550 wired open-back headphones review Would you like a comparison of how the HD 550 performs specifically for gaming versus critical mus...

The Crutchfield review of the Sennheiser HD 550 highlights these open-back headphones as a mid-tier, comfortable option offering a spacious, detailed soundstage with authoritative bass and smooth highs. Their lightweight, ergonomic design ensures comfort, though the 150-ohm impedance and open-air design necessitate a dedicated amplifier and limit use to quiet environments. Pros...Read more

majorhifi.com

13/05/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Vs 560s Comparison Review - Major HiFi

The Sennheiser HD 560S is identified as the superior choice for accuracy, featuring a flat, analytical sound with excellent treble detail, though its highs can become sharp and fatiguing. In contrast, the HD 550 offers a more musical, relaxed experience with deeper, warmer bass and a smoother treble, making it ideal for casual listening but less suitable for critical, clinical...Read more

hifitest.de

16/08/2025

Sennheiser HD550 - Hi-Fi Headphones Review - Very Good - hifitest.de

The Sennheiser HD550 is an open-back, over-ear headphone priced at around 300 Euros that delivers a highly neutral, musical, and slightly analytical sound signature. Manufactured with a 150-ohm transducer made in Ireland, it excels at providing exceptional vocal clarity and a well-extended, unexaggerated bass response that handles deep cinematic low-ends effectively. Built entirely...Read more

connect.de

10/04/2026

Sennheiser HD 550 Review: A Dream for Detail-Oriented Gamers

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a wired, open-back over-ear headphone priced at €299.90 that targets both audiophiles and gamers. It features an exceptionally balanced, neutral sound profile with highly accurate and natural mids that outperform its sibling model, the HD 505. The bass reaches deep without becoming overwhelming, and the device utilizes an in-house developed 150-ohm dynamic...Read more

gamers.at

23/09/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 headphones and HD 500 BAM microphone review", "Testing the Sennheiser HD 550 headphones and HD 500 BAM microphone

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a wired, open-back headphone designed for audiophiles and gamers, retailing at €299.90, which can be paired with the separate HD 500 BAM boom arm microphone for €49.90. On the positive side, the review praises the setup for its exceptional, studio-quality sound reproduction that beats competitors in its price class, alongside high-quality gold-plated plugs...Read more

mein-mmo.de

23/07/2025

My review of the Sennheiser HD 550 after over 250 hours

Review Overview The Sennheiser HD 550 is a lightweight, open-back pair of headphones priced at an MSRP of €299.99 (market price around €250), designed for users seeking a neutral sound signature for both music and casual gaming. Weighing just 237 grams, the headphones feature a construction made of plastic and metal mesh, offering highly breathable cloth ear cushions that prevent...Read more

delamar.de

01/05/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review - Headphones - Delamar

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an open-back, over-ear HiFi headphone priced at 299 Euros that offers a highly balanced and honest sound signature with an expansive soundstage, making it a strong all-rounder for music lovers, gamers, and studio mixing. A standout structural highlight is its angled 38 mm transducers, which significantly widen the stereo image and deliver excellent spatial...Read more

ratgeber.pcgameshardware.de

02/04/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review - PCGH Guide

Summary of the Sennheiser HD 550 Review The Sennheiser HD 550 is a wired, open-back over-ear HiFi headphone designed for audio beginners and gamers seeking high-quality, detail-rich sound at a retail price of €299.90. Manufactured in Ireland, the headphones feature a custom 38mm transducer that delivers a highly balanced, neutral frequency response spanning from 6 Hz to 39.5 kHz....Read more

bonedo.de

31/03/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review - Bonedo

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a wired, open-back HiFi headphone designed for media consumption, gaming, and creative tasks like DAW programming. Despite its high 150-ohm impedance, it drives efficiently and delivers a punchy volume directly out of devices like a MacBook Pro headphone jack. It features an impressive frequency range of 6 to 39,500 Hz, angled dynamic drivers manufactured in...Read more

kopfhoerer.de

26/03/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 review on kopfhoerer.de", "Sennheiser HD 550 tested by kopfhoerer.de

The Sennheiser HD 550 is reviewed as an excellent entry-level open-back headphone for the audiophile market under €300, delivering a balanced and genre-neutral audio performance. Featuring a lightweight 237-gram plastic construction with an inherited robust headband from the HD 599, it offers superb long-term comfort due to soft velour ear pads and low clamping force. Powered by an...Read more

frandroid.com

31/03/2025

Sennheiser HD550 Review: Unfiltered Sound

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a lightweight and comfortable wired, open-back hi-fi headphone that scored a 9/10 in this review. Built with a robust plastic frame, aluminum grilles, and memory foam padding covered in velvet and synthetic leather, it offers an excellent fit for long listening or gaming sessions without causing ear fatigue. The headphones feature high-quality dynamic...Read more

sport.fr

23/05/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review: The Quintessence of Wired Listening

The Sport.fr review of the Sennheiser HD 550 praises it as a masterful return to pure, unadulterated wired audiophile listening. Priced at €299.90, this open-back model features 38 mm dynamic transducers that deliver an exceptionally wide, deep, and immersive 3D soundstage. The reviewer notes that despite its 150 Ohm impedance, it remains surprisingly easy to drive directly from a...Read more

geektopia.es

13/05/2025

Analysis: Sennheiser HD 550 review in Spanish - Geektopia

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a pair of lightweight (237g), open-back audiophile headphones featuring 38mm drivers, an impedance of 150 ohms, and a broad frequency response of 6 Hz to 39,500 Hz. Retailing at an expected €300, these headphones are built to a high standard, utilizing a synthetic leather padded headband and soft, plush earpads that offer strong long-term comfort with very...Read more

misauriculares.com

26/08/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an open-back dynamic headphone priced at around €299 that delivers a highly detailed and musically balanced sound profile with an impressive sense of space. Built almost entirely out of premium-feeling plastic, it features large circumaural ear pads, an lightweight 237-gram body, and a lower lateral clamping force compared to the HD 600 series, making it...Read more

revistaonoff.es

18 de noviembre de 2025

Test bench: Sennheiser HD 550 - ON OFF MAGAZINE

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an open-back, over-ear wired headphone priced at €299 that delivers impressive high-fidelity sound without requiring a dedicated amplifier. Designed for home use or remote working, its open-back nature means it provides minimal noise isolation and leaks sound externally. Each ear cup houses an angled 38mm dynamic driver made in Ireland, yielding a broad 6 Hz...Read more

joypad.ch

31/03/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review - Joypad.ch

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an open-back, over-ear headphone designed for precise and neutral audio reproduction, making it an attractive choice for audiofiles. Weighing approximately 237 grams, it features 38mm dynamic transducers built into a robust plastic frame with large, oval velvet ear pads that comfortably accommodate glasses. It operates at an impedance of 150 ohms and a...Read more

charlestech.fr

27/03/2025

Sennheiser HD550 Review: Full and Detailed Testing

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a set of open-back, dynamic monitoring headphones priced at €299, targeting audiophiles who want a natural and faithful audio reproduction. On the positive side, the headphones deliver exceptional sound quality highlighted by highly impressive, clear, and precise mid-ranges that outperform older models like the HD 600. Its bass is well-defined and extends...Read more

nerdmovieproductions.it

09/06/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Headphones - The Review", "Sennheiser HD 550 Review

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a pair of open-back headphones aimed at demanding audiophiles looking for high-end performance at a competitive mid-to-high-end price point under €300. Weighing only 237 grams, the plastic frame feels surprisingly lightweight yet structurally robust on the head. It features an angled 150Ω driver design that produces an immersive, 3D-like "acoustic spectrum"...Read more

gamesurf.it

05/05/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 – Testing the open-back audiophile headphones

The Sennheiser HD 550 are open-back, audiophile-grade headphones designed for a natural, balanced, and highly faithful audio reproduction without artificial sound boosts. Retailing at a suggested price of €299.90, this lightweight 237-gram model features large oval earcups with comfortable velvet padding and a detachable 1.8-metre cable. In comparison to the companion HD 505 model,...Read more

musicoff.com

02/04/2026

Sennheiser HD 550 Headphones: The Listening Test from Radiohead to Plini

The Musicoff review highlights the Sennheiser HD 550 as a well-balanced, mid-tier open-back "audiophile" headphone that carves out its own unique sonic character between the HD 560S and HD 505 Copper. Built with a newly designed 150 Ohm dynamic driver manufactured in Ireland, it boasts a frequency spectrum of 6 Hz to 39.5 kHz and a sensitivity of nearly 107dB/V RMS. The primary pros...Read more

digitalvideoht.it

30/08/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 - Digital Video Home Theater

The Sennheiser HD550 is an open-back, circumaural headphone that balances modern engineering with practical, daily functionality. Weighing only 237 grams due to its dominant plastic construction, it features deep emerald-green velour earpads and an adjustable headband that minimizes clamping force for high long-term comfort. It utilizes 38mm dynamic transducers built in Ireland,...Read more

techgaming.nl

26/03/2025

Review: Sennheiser HD 550 - TechGaming

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an open-back, over-ear hi-fi headphone designed as a hybrid solution for both high-quality audio listening and gaming. Priced at €299.90, it features two 38mm drivers manufactured in Tullamore, Ireland, which deliver a highly balanced, neutral sound profile spanning a frequency response of 6 Hz to 39.5 kHz with an impedance of 150 Ohms. The reviewer praised...Read more

hifi.nl

29/07/2026

Sennheiser HD 550 Open-Back Headphones Review - Hifi.nl

Sennheiser HD 550 The Sennheiser HD 550 is an open-back, wired hifi headphone designed to bridge traditional audiophile quality with mainstream versatility for home use. Retailing at just under 300 euros, it utilizes a 38-mm transducer built in Ireland and features a lightweight 237-gram chassis inherited from the long-standing HD 5xx line. To increase its appeal for long music,...Read more

playsense.nl

27/07/2026

Review | Sennheiser HD550 - PlaySense Do you still need help comparing the technical specifications from these tests?

The PlaySense review of the €299.99 Sennheiser HD550Go highlights an open-back design tailored for enthusiasts, praising its lightweight, comfortable build and highly detailed, balanced sound quality. While offering excellent, natural audio for gaming and music, the headphones are designed for stationary, high-end audio setups. Key disadvantages noted include the high price point...Read more

xgn.nl

04/05/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Review - Back to basics", "Sennheiser HD 550 Review - Going back to the essentials

The XGN review of the Sennheiser HD 550 highlights the open-back headphones as an excellent choice for audio accuracy, particularly for competitive gaming, due to precise positioning. Embracing a back-to-basics approach, the headset is praised for focusing entirely on sound quality, omitting unnecessary, gimmicky features. Conversely, the open-back design acts as a limitation for...Read more

nl.ign.com

30/06/2026

Sennheiser HD 550 Review

The Sennheiser HD 550 is a wired, open-back headset reviewed by IGN Benelux as a hidden superstar specifically optimized for gaming and general media consumption. Priced at a premium €299, it features an entirely analog 3.5 mm connection with a 6.3 mm screw-on adapter, a lightweight matte-black plastic chassis, and soft ear cushions tailored for all-day comfort. The primary selling...Read more

global.techradar.com

24/04/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 review - TechRadar

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an entry-level, open-back wired headphone priced at an MSRP of €299.90, specifically tuned to deliver a neutral, highly detailed, and exceptionally well-balanced sound profile across all frequencies. Positioned as a bass-improved alternative to the more analytical HD 505 model, it delivers a fuller sound and a wider, spatial soundstage via its 38mm...Read more

technologyinsider.nl

30/05/2025

Sennheiser HD 550 Headphones Review: A Touch Better Than...", "Sennheiser HD 550 Headphones Review: A Notch Better Than...", "Sennheiser HD 550 Headph...

The Technology Insider review highlights the Sennheiser HD 550 as a precise, open-back headphone offering enhanced audio over previous models, boasting exceptionally realistic sound, a wide soundstage, and balanced, detailed audio. Key advantages include its lightweight design and comfort, suitable for long, fatigue-free listening. Conversely, the open-back design limits noise...Read more

fwd.nl

05/04/2025

Review: Sennheiser HD 550 - Everyman's friend | FWD", "Review: Sennheiser HD 550 - Crowd-pleaser | FWD", "Review: Sennheiser HD 550 - Friend to all |...

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an affordable, wired, open-back over-ear headphone priced just under €300. Utilizing a lightweight chassis shared with other HD5xx models, it offers exceptional long-wearing comfort due to its soft velour cushions, minimal clamp pressure, and light 237-gram weight. It features a new Duofoil transducer made in Ireland and sports a relatively high 150-Ohm...Read more

Video reviews

Best alternatives

Sony WH 1000XM4

Headphones

JBL Tour One M3

Headphones

Sony WH 1000XM6

Headphones

Headphones

Headphones

Sony WH ULT900N

Headphones

Nothing Headphone 1

Headphones

Sony WH 1000XM5

Headphones

Headphones

Huawei Freebuds Studio

Headphones

Sennheiser Momentum

Headphones

JBL Tour One M2

Headphones

Compare Sennheiser HD 550 with

Compare