Click to view our Accessibility Statement or contact us with accessibility-related questions
Showing 1 of 8 conversations about:
PROTOTYPE HD 8XX: First Impressions from an HD 800 Owner
By
Evshrug
drflood
2
May 29, 2021
Thanks for this review. I thought about purchasing the HD800 for a couple of years before I went ahead and did it several years ago and I have not been disappointed. I bought the 6xx from Drop before that and thought they were ok but didn’t see what all the fuss was about whereas with the HD800 I did. Soundstage, clarity and precision are more important to me than powerful bass. When I saw the description of the HD8xx at just $50 more than I paid for the HD800 I was tempted to consider selling the 800 and replacing it with this. But the discussions about whether it will be possible to get post-warranty service for such an expensive pair of headphones, especially with Sennheiser selling its consumer audio business, and the lack of clear response from Drop about exactly what those options would be have cooled my interest and I feel like I’m safer sticking with what I have. I am curious about your opinion on this.
By the way I’m powering the HD800 with the JDS Objective 2 + ODAC and curious whether you think there’s an advantage to any other amplifier for these. I don’t have a problem, just wondering whether a different setup would sound even better.
Evshrug
3775
Community
May 29, 2021
drfloodAbsolutely, and I think it’s wonderful that you have an open mind for more information!
First, let’s address “Sennheiser selling their consumer business.” That’s a very click-effective headline, but Sennheiser says they were seeking and found a partner. With more nuance, Sennheiser headphones aren’t going away, nor is the brand leaving the Sennheiser family and being attached to headphones made by someone else. This is very much a business move... Sonova is investing resources in exchange for a share of profits. Sennheiser consumer still is going to use their resources in fabrication and personnel to produce existing headphones and develop new headphones. The consumer division will still be operating out of Sennheiser KG right alongside the Pro and BizCom divisions! So, think of it more as assurance that Sennheiser’s consumer products will go on (and grow).
Second, warranty and service talk. The HD 8xx have a two year warranty, executed by Drop. I’ve been trying to go around and explain, and I think Drop made a sticky (or should) but essentially the HD 8XX is an exclusive variant and Drop has the contract to buy them all... kind of like in the knife world, where a store may get an exclusive edition with raw “Jade” G10 scales or a unique blade steel. Two years is a looooong time to find a manufacturing defect that could have been missed in a flagship product produced by machine and hand at Sennheiser KG (the headquarters) where they are QC checked multiple times along the assembly process. Beyond accidental damage, the normal wear and tear parts for an HD 8XX will be the headband and ear pads, and maybe the cable if it is frequently stressed (the durability of which was improved in 2018, but even so it was always Para-aramid reinforced like body armor, and my stock cable isn’t showing any wear even though I bought it in 2016). All easily user-serviceable and available for purchase. Passive Headphones don’t “blow out” if you use them with properly functioning equipment... people still use Sennheiser headphones from the 90’s and 80’s (and older?) with only the occasional pad changes.
Lastly, yes the HD 800 and HD 8xx definitely reveal DAC and amp upgrades. Obviously the O2 and ODAC don’t have problems, as you say, but even NwAvGuy said performance could be improved and some compromises were made to hit his targets for size and cost. I use my HD 800 (and tested the HD 8xx) on a Sennheiser HDV 820, which was a clear sonic upgrade over the HDVD 800 in sounding more crisp and less muted, better soundstage and sense of depth, separation etc, and even Sennheiser has said that they could produce an improved model over that...
I am not going to debate the offerings from different manufacturers (and while I have heard and enjoyed many, I certainly haven’t heard all!), and of course you are going to have your own preference for your current budget, taste, and “endgame” (which has been a shifting thing for me!). It is more expensive and time consuming to produce the highest levels of performance, and within that there are many flavors (and no “correct” flavor, just like food). Just like the HD 800 was worth it to you over the HD 6XX, there is going to be amp/DAC components out there that will impress you just as much, but it’s up to you if it will be worth the additional investment. I might be willing to pay more for a little difference... because sometimes a little difference makes all the difference!
(Edited)
drflood
2
May 29, 2021
EvshrugThanks, this was very helpful. I saw in another post you mentioned some other amps - don’t think I’m in the market for a really expensive one and not entirely sure how much I’ll be able to tell the difference between 800 and 8xx but it sound like upgrading the amp might make more sense than upgrading the headphone...
Evshrug
3775
Community
May 29, 2021
drfloodI’m glad you saw some of my other posts... sometimes, if I make many posts about similar things, they can blur together 😅
I try not to mention other specific amps too much... because I do believe it’s a YMMV kind of thing. Upgrading your gear does make a difference, but for some people it will be a small difference, and for other people a small difference makes all the difference.
For many people that claim HD 800 treble was too harsh or the bass too light to convey emotion, I think they would be surprised if they heard this flagship series on a flagship setup... I mentioned recently that I use an HDV 820 DAC/amp, and with it I feel very satisfied, but for example I felt like the HD 800 was harsh and fatiguing on the Creative Labs Z soundcard, and weirdly blurred and restrained on the Schiit Asgard (original generation of both, and I have not familiarized myself with their newer products, I wish both companies all the success).
Edit: I got off topic! Yes, if you have and like the HD 800 already and you want to hear more of what it’s capable of, you may as well address the bigger bottlenecks to your total system performance first. A poor match for the HD 800 will also be a poor match for the HD 8xx. With that said, for someone who didn’t have either headphone, the HD 8xx is where I would rather start, and don’t judge me if one day I have an HD 8xx instead of my 800 😅
(Edited)
PRODUCTS YOU MAY LIKE
Trending Posts in Audiophile
walterassociates
Walter & Associates
Walter & Associates, where we are passionate about simplifying complex business processes, enhancing efficiency, and providing exceptional support and expertise to help your business thrive. We specialise in providing tailored business growth consultancy services that align with your goals and objectives. Our expertise extends to implementing robust data governance framework, ensuring effective performance management strategies, and offering insightful business intelligence consultancy to drive informed decision-making and sustainable growth.
Apr 30, 2024
luznashmm
How to select a Ideal Audiophile Headphones
The ultimate listening experience with our expert guide on choosing the perfect audiophile headphones. From understanding sound signatures to considering comfort and durability, we've got you covered. Explore our range of audiophile headphones and find the perfect pair to elevate your music journey. Say goodbye to subpar sound quality and hello to immersive audio bliss with our selection of lattafa perfumes.
Apr 30, 2024
redspet
So I bought the HD6xx
So I bought the HD6xx a few weeks back and when I finally got the packages i got some Noir 99. ever happened to any of u guys and how did it get resolved
Apr 29, 2024
harrykane01
World Of Shanik
The World of Shanik, known for its fusion of culinary excellence and elegant design, now offers a diverse range of products to enhance your lifestyle. From the exquisite turntable cheese board, perfect for entertaining guests with style, to the nightstand organizer wood, keeping your essentials neatly arranged, to the custom tequila shot glasses that add a personal touch to any gathering, Shanik continues to innovate in both form and function. Since its inception as a celebration of good food, good people, and sophisticated design, Shanik has evolved into a trusted destination for those who appreciate quality craftsmanship and tasteful living.
Apr 25, 2024
robbertwilson
Shop Premium Women Golf Shirts at ApparelnBags
Be the trendsetter on the golf course with our stylish collection of custom polo shirts for women. Whether you're swinging your way to victory or simply want to rock that sporty chic look, our polo shirts for women are here to make you stand out. Moreover, we understand that style and quality go hand in hand. That's why, from golf shirts for women to long sleeve polo shirts for women , we handpick the best products to ensure you experience comfort and durability. Also, our women polo shirts offer the perfect blend of style and functionality, so you can focus on your game without compromising style. So, grab your favorite polos today. Remember, it's not just a game; it's a lifestyle, and our polos will help you ace both!
Apr 25, 2024
SsButerbal
Ringing in PC38X's
I recently got this headset, and wow is it good. My only issue is when certain people talk on discord, I can hear a really high pitched ringing. I fiddled with a bunch of settings, computer audio and discord, and nothing seems to solve the issue. It is primarily if not all in my right ear only. Is there something wrong with my headset, or was that ringing always there I can just hear it cause the headset is THAT good? I haven't had any issues with any other application, though I have yet to test if I can hear the ringing on a different version of discord, say on my xbox instead of my pc. Only other issue I've had is occasional static, but I can't tell if it's from the headset or the show/game/etc.
Apr 24, 2024
Briankan
Recommendation for my next headphone set? I have Koss 95x
Hey all, What would you recommend I get next and why? I have Koss ESP-95x electrostatic massdrop headphones. These are my first and only audiophile set. I love them. I think my only real requirements is $500 or less for the headphones and that they have a little more low end. I don’t need thump but these are really light on lows…but the experience is still awesome. Also any recommendations on an amp? I only have my electrostatic thingy. I am using the Topping D50 DAC. thx!!
Apr 22, 2024
Drop Refurbished
Like-new products you can trustDrop Rewards
Get $5 for every 500 points you earn! Learn more
Drop Keyboard Club
Become a member and expand your keycap collectionCollaborate With Us
For Brands & DesignersFollow Drop