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Products in this category are scored under Frontum Headphones Methodology v1.0: technical specifications plus authentic consumer ratings, with 0% commercial bias.
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Sennheiser IE 800 S Review | 93 Data compared

Avg. price:~£850Form factor:in-earConnectivity:wiredBattery life:N/A hoursActive noise cancellation (ANC):no

Sennheiser IE 800 S Review: Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how this product ranks in the Headphones category and whether it is worth buying.

5.8/10

Overall score

Score
5.8/ 10
✕
What it is
An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.
When it matters
When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 72% of models
Score components

80%

5.8

Technical score

20%

?

User score

â–¼Worse than 72% of headphones
5.9

Value for money

Value for money
5.9/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 96% of models
Score components

70%

5.8

Overall score

30%

6.0

Price

â–¼Worse than 96%
5.8

Technical score

Technical score
5.8/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of technical performance for products in the Headphones category across these key areas: Sound, Calls & Controls, Connectivity, Features, Battery, Design.
When it matters
When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
Score components

52%

6.6

Sound

20%

4.0

Features

10%

8.0

Design

8%

4.0

Connectivity

6%

4.0

Battery

4%

5.5

Calls & Controls

â–¼Worse than 53%
?

User score

User score
8.0/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters
When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 58% of models
Score components

70%

?

User ratings

30%

?

Number of reviews

  • No image
No image
Where to buy
    N/A~ £850
Best rankings
Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).All: ranking among all products in the database.
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Technical Specifications of pair of headphones Sennheiser IE 800 S

Technical score
Technical score
5.8/ 10
✕
What it is
An assessment of technical performance for products in the Headphones category across these key areas: Sound, Calls & Controls, Connectivity, Features, Battery, Design.
When it matters
When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 53% of models
Score components:

52%

6.6

Sound

20%

4.0

Features

10%

8.0

Design

8%

4.0

Connectivity

6%

4.0

Battery

4%

5.5

Calls & Controls

5.8
User score
User score
8.0/ 10
✕
What it is
A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters
When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 58% of models
Score components

70%

?

User ratings

30%

?

Number of reviews

?
Popularity
Popularity
1.0/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 99% of models
Popularity:
Sennheiser IE 800 S has a popularity score of 1 point, which is lower than that of 73.4% of products in this category.
1.0
Value for money
Value for money
5.9/ 10
✕
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.
Score distribution
â–¼
<55-66-77-88-99-10
â–¼ Worse than 96% of models
Score components:

70%

5.8

Overall score

30%

6.0

Price

5.9
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
no
This pair of headphones does not support active noise cancellation. 27.5% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
dynamic
Driver size
7 mm
Market range: <10 mm – >50 mm
This pair of headphones uses a driver size of 7 mm, smaller driver size than 97.9% of headphones and equal to 0.8% of headphones.
Number of drivers
1
Market range: <1 – >4
This pair of headphones uses 1 drivers, fewer drivers than 4% of headphones and equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
5 Hz
Market range: <5 Hz – >20 Hz
This pair of headphones reaches a lowest frequency of 5 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 86.3% of headphones and equal to 10.8% of headphones.
Show more
Noise-canceling microphone
no
This pair of headphones does not support a noise-canceling microphone. 39% of headphones support noise-canceling microphones.
Can be used as a headset
yes
This pair of headphones is headset-ready, 84.8% is not. 15.2% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
1
Market range: <0 – >4
This pair of headphones has 1 microphones, more microphones than 26.9% of headphones and equal to 50.9% of headphones.
Boom microphone
yes
This pair of headphones includes a boom microphone. 86.5% of headphones have a boom microphone.
Microphone SNR
N/A
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Connectivity
wired
This pair of headphones supports wired connectivity, less flexible connectivity than 49.2% of headphones and equal to 50.8% of headphones.
Bluetooth version
N/A
Maximum Bluetooth range
N/A
Audio latency
N/A
Multipoint support
no
This pair of headphones does not support multipoint. 30.6% of headphones support multipoint.
Show more
Ambient sound mode
no
This pair of headphones does not offer ambient sound mode. 24.9% of headphones support ambient sound mode.
EQ support
no
This pair of headphones does not support EQ customization. 23.2% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
no
This pair of headphones does not work with a companion app. 21.6% of headphones support companion apps.
Adjustable ANC levels
N/A
Voice assistant support
no
This pair of headphones does not support voice assistants. 60.9% of headphones support voice assistants.
Show more
Battery life
N/A
Battery life with ANC
N/A
Charging time
N/A
Quick charge
no
This pair of headphones does not support quick charging. 33.1% of headphones support quick charge.
Battery capacity
N/A
Show more
Brand name
Sennheiser
Form factor
in-ear
Weight
8 g
Market range: <14 g – >340 g
This pair of headphones weighs 8 g, lighter than 97.2% of headphones and equal to 0.7% of headphones.
Acoustic design
closed-back
Clamp force
N/A
Show more

Sennheiser IE 800 S vs the average pair of headphones

246810TotalDesignSoundBatteryConnectivityCalls & ControlsFeatures
  • Hi-Res Audio certification
    This pair of headphones has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average pair of headphones does not. 23.1% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
  • 96.3% lower weight
    This pair of headphones is lighter than the average pair of headphones (8 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    8 g vs 218 g
  • 13 Hz lower bass extension
    This pair of headphones has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    5 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 23 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    This pair of headphones has a higher sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • 26,500 Hz higher treble extension
    This pair of headphones has a higher highest frequency than the average pair of headphones (46,500 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    46,500 Hz vs 20,000 Hz
  • 0.24 % lower distortion
    This pair of headphones has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    0.06 % vs 0.3 %
  • Boom microphone included
    This pair of headphones includes a boom microphone, the average pair of headphones does not. 13.5% of headphones have a boom microphone.
  • 22 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    This pair of headphones has a higher sound pressure level than the average pair of headphones (125 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
    125 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
  • 96.3% lower weight
    This pair of headphones is lighter than the average pair of headphones (8 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    8 g vs 218 g
  • Hi-Res Audio certification
    This pair of headphones has Hi-Res Audio certification, the average pair of headphones does not. 23.1% of headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified.
  • 13 Hz lower bass extension
    This pair of headphones has a lower lowest frequency than the average pair of headphones (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    5 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 23 dB/mW higher sensitivity
    This pair of headphones has a higher sensitivity than the average pair of headphones (125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    125 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • 26,500 Hz higher treble extension
    This pair of headphones has a higher highest frequency than the average pair of headphones (46,500 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    46,500 Hz vs 20,000 Hz
  • 0.24 % lower distortion
    This pair of headphones has a lower total harmonic distortion than the average pair of headphones (0.1 % vs 0.3 %). The average headphones have total harmonic distortion of 0.3 %.
    0.06 % vs 0.3 %
  • 22 dB SPL higher sound pressure level
    This pair of headphones has a higher sound pressure level than the average pair of headphones (125 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
    125 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL
  • 15 dB higher max SPL
    This pair of headphones has a higher max SPL than the average pair of headphones (125 dB vs 110 dB). The average headphones reach a max SPL of 110 dB.
    125 dB vs 110 dB
  • Boom microphone included
    This pair of headphones includes a boom microphone, the average pair of headphones does not. 13.5% of headphones have a boom microphone.
  • 33 mm smaller driver size
    This pair of headphones has smaller driver size than the average pair of headphones (7 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
    7 mm vs 40 mm
  • Non-replaceable earpads
    This pair of headphones has non-replaceable earpads, while the average pair of headphones has replaceable ones. 75.6% of headphones have replaceable earpads.
  • No voice assistant support
    This pair of headphones does not support voice assistants, the average pair of headphones does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • 9.44x more expensive
    Sennheiser IE 800 S is more expensive than the average pair of headphones (£850 vs £90).
    £850 vs £90
  • 23.4% worse value for money
    Sennheiser IE 800 S has worse value for money than the average pair of headphones (5.89 vs 7.3).
    5.89 vs 7.27
  • No battery indicator
    This pair of headphones does not show battery level clearly, while the average pair of headphones does. 56.3% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
  • 5.87x less popular
    Sennheiser IE 800 S is less popular than the average pair of headphones (1 vs 5.9).
    1 vs 5.87
  • Tangle-prone cable
    This pair of headphones uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average pair of headphones is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • 9.44x more expensive
    Sennheiser IE 800 S is more expensive than the average pair of headphones (£850 vs £90).
    £850 vs £90
  • 23.4% worse value for money
    Sennheiser IE 800 S has worse value for money than the average pair of headphones (5.89 vs 7.3).
    5.89 vs 7.27
  • 5.87x less popular
    Sennheiser IE 800 S is less popular than the average pair of headphones (1 vs 5.9).
    1 vs 5.87
  • Non-replaceable earpads
    This pair of headphones has non-replaceable earpads, while the average pair of headphones has replaceable ones. 75.6% of headphones have replaceable earpads.
  • Tangle-prone cable
    This pair of headphones uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average pair of headphones is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • 33 mm smaller driver size
    This pair of headphones has smaller driver size than the average pair of headphones (7 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
    7 mm vs 40 mm
  • No battery indicator
    This pair of headphones does not show battery level clearly, while the average pair of headphones does. 56.3% of headphones have a battery level indicator.
  • No voice assistant support
    This pair of headphones does not support voice assistants, the average pair of headphones does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.

Video reviews

Hands-on testing, unboxing, and real-world video evaluations

8.0
AudioReviewChannel
≈ estimated
14/03/2018
Hands-on review of sound across several sources
Verdict
Sennheiser IE 800 S is small, comfortable and natural-sounding, but lacks punch and is best with a balanced source.
Overview video
Not graded
Not graded yet
Not graded yet

Expert reviews

In-depth analysis and verdict from leading tech publications

whathifi.com
11/12/2017
Listening review · Premium in-ears
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S offers detail and a spacious soundstage, but weak punch and cable noise leave it underwhelming at this price.
twister6.com
25/12/2017
Detailed review · Dynamic in-ears
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S is a natural, evenly tuned in-ear with tiny ceramic shells, but its fixed cable is noisy when worn cable-down.
H
head-fi.org
27/12/2017
Summary of the review
Sennheiser IE 800 S - Reviews - Head-Fi
cnet.com
17/02/2018
Impressions · Premium in-ears
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S is a clear, open in-ear that suits acoustic music, though its bass is less punchy than the Shure SE846.
audiorabbithole.com
10/03/2018
Blog review · Audiophile in-ears
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S has deep, natural sub bass and smooth vocals, but cable noise and a fiddly case are its main irritations.
theheadphonelist.com
25/03/2018
Detailed review · Dynamic in-ears
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S is a crisp, clear update with comfortable, refined sound, though silicone tips may fit unstably and the cable is short.
M
majorhifi.com
26/10/2018
Summary of the review
Sennheiser IE 800 S vs Noble Audio Django Review
H
headphoneer.com
29/09/2023
Summary of the review
SENNHEISER IE800S MINI REVIEW - The Headphoneer Are you looking for specific technical specifications or frequency response measurements for the IE 80...
headphonecheck.com
Not specified
Listening review · Audiophile in-ears
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S suits audiophiles who want a relaxed, melodious tone over theatrical staging, and it is light enough to forget in the ear.
primeaudio.org
18/03/2018
Hands-on review · Single-driver in-ear
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S is a very comfortable, smooth single-driver earphone with deep bass, but its sound can lack excitement and its cable is fixed.
theheadphonelist.com
26/04/2019
Hands-on review · Cable and build
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S is beautifully built and comfortable with a self-adjusting fit, but its short, noisy cable is a clear weak point.
kopfhoerer.de
22/03/2018
Listening test · Audiophile in-ears
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S is a plain-looking, relaxed in-ear that suits music lovers wanting warm, even sound, but not those hoping for theatrical staging.
kopfbox.de
17/05/2020
Hands-on test · Premium in-ears
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S is a detailed, controlled in-ear with a smoother treble than its predecessor, but its short cable suits cable-down wear best.
headphonecheck.com
14/11/2026
Listening review · Audiophile in-ears
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S suits audiophiles who want a relaxed, melodious tone over theatrical staging, and it is light enough to forget in the ear.
headphonecheck.com
12/12/2017
Listening review · Audiophile in-ears
Verdict
The Sennheiser IE 800 S suits audiophiles who want a relaxed, melodious tone over theatrical staging, and it is light enough to forget in the ear.
O
on-mag.fr
16/08/2015
Summary of the review
Sennheiser IE800 Review: Ceramic shells but a powerful sound that is anything but fragile
(Translated)Show original
R
revistagq.com
24/04/2019
Summary of the review
We have tested the best headphones on the market (Includes IE 800 S)
(Translated)Show original
A
afdigitale.it
17/05/2018
Summary of the review
Sennheiser IE 80 S: expensive, but not impressive
(Translated)Show original
H
hifi.nl
14/04/2018
Summary of the review
AKG N5005 and Sennheiser IE 800 S Review: 1000 Euros in Your Ear
(Translated)Show original

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Sennheiser IE 800 S

  • Stellar sound quality with natural tonality and extreme detail retrieval
  • Exceptional build quality featuring scratch-resistant ceramic housings
  • Highly comfortable and lightweight design that almost 'disappears' in the ear
  • Versatile connectivity with included 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm modular cable extensions
  • Expansive and airy soundstage that is among the largest for in-ear monitors
  • Strong, deep sub-bass performance with authoritative punch and control

What customers don't like about Sennheiser IE 800 S

  • Significant cable noise (microphonics) that can be intrusive during movement
  • Non-detachable cable at the housing creates a single point of failure for longevity
  • Proprietary ear tip design limits third-party 'tip rolling' options
  • Shallow fit may be unstable for some users or during active use
  • High premium price tag compared to other flagship models
  • Acoustic synergy can be finicky with certain digital audio players (DAPs)

Verdict

The Sennheiser IE 800 S is a premium audiophile in-ear monitor featuring a single 7mm Extra Wide Band (XWB) dynamic driver housed in a scratch-resistant, matte-finish ceramic shell weighing approximately 8g. Key specifications include a wide frequency response of 5 Hz to 46,500 Hz, a low 16-ohm impedance for easy driving, and a high sound pressure level of 125 dB with ultra-low total harmonic distortion (<0.06%). It is noted for its natural, transparent, and coherent sound signature, further enhanced by a patented Dual Chamber Absorber (D2CA) system that prevents frequency masking. Main pros include its exceptionally lightweight, comfortable design, a modular cable system that includes 2.5mm, 3.5mm, and 4.4mm balanced extensions, and its ability to deliver refined detail and deep sub-bass. However, notable cons include significant cable noise (microphonics), a non-detachable cable design at the earpieces, and a reliance on proprietary ear tips.

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