Sennheiser HD 820 Headphones Black

Sennheiser HD 820 Critics claim that closed headphones cannot come close to competing with the sound quality of the open systems. The design simply wouldn't allow that. What Sennheiser thinks about this? Convince yourself! The HD 820 was developed in Germany and is characterized by the combination of an innovative glass reflector with ring radiator converter technology. The result is an uncompromisingly lively sound experience that sets new standards.

Closed system, without compromises

The HD 820 combines the well-known cutting-edge technology of the sound transducer with an exceptionally high attenuation of ambient noise, which far exceeds all expectations of closed headphones. Until now, Sennheiser has relied on the concept of open headphones in order to maximize the sound experience. This concept, consistently implemented in the design, paved the way for a whole series of high-quality headphones designed for precision. The standard developed here in terms of sound reproduction was even able to prevail over much larger and more expensive hi-fi systems and also offered the advantage of location independence. The HD 820 combines attention to detail with a focus on unique sound. The result is the consistent implementation of an innovative acoustic system in closed, dynamic headphones.

Signal transmission in a closed system

A closed headphone that can reproduce the wide, natural sound spectrum of an open headphone requires a rethinking of the directivity of sound waves. Although closed systems ensure the best possible intimate sound experience, they imply an inversely proportional risk of resonances and distortions in the auditory canal. In its class, the HD 820 does not need to shy away from comparison with its competitors, because it impresses with the use of precisely selective concave glass reflectors to avoid resonances in both ear cups. The unique glass covers sit on the outer ring of the ring radiator sound transducer. The concave glass, a visually striking feature, reflects the sound waves from the back of the transducer onto an absorber. As a result, these sound waves and resonances, similar to the open headphones of the HD 800 S series, are now reduced to an absolute minimum for the first time even with closed headphones.

The decisive effect of the ring

The HD 820's 56mm ring radiator takes advantage of the major advantage of a larger transducer - airflow - without neglecting the required level of resistance with its crucial impact on quiet and response times. Instead of solely attaching to the outer edge of the transducer, both the outer and inner edges of the “ring” are attached to the driver unit. The voice coil causes the membrane inserted in a V-shaped recess near the center of the ring to vibrate.

The chassis of the headphones follows a damping concept to minimize vibrations. In addition, the non-slip headband ensures a secure fit. The result is unhindered and incredibly fast and precise signal transmission of the entire frequency spectrum. What counts in the end result are the components integrated into the HD 820. Each individual transducer is manufactured by hand and tested and checked until it meets the lowest possible manufacturing tolerances. Only devices with maximum reliable performance leave our factory. Each HD 820 receives an individual frequency curve and associated serial number depending on its proven bandwidth. So you are well equipped to put your entire music collection and individual favorite pieces to the test.

Consistently well thought-out technology

The stereo reproduction with an intensified, almost magical sound spectrum is the result of a complex technological development concept for the HD 820. The sound angle of the driver in combination with the response of the ring radiator converter allows the precise reproduction of voice and instruments in the composition. You are in the middle of life and can escape reality at the same time. The balance between reality and the world of sound allows you to fully concentrate on a unique sound experience when listening to your favorite recordings. The ear padding is extremely comfortable and the shape, which is perfectly adapted to the anatomy of the ear, ensures a tight fit that offers exceptional comfort even during long listening sessions. There are times when accurate listening is essential. Especially when the situation is important, but also when you just want to listen to music intensively, the HD 820 is the headphone of choice, which eliminates annoying external noises but does not allow any sound elements to penetrate to the outside.

The connection is the be-all and end-all

Even if you expand your music system with new components, your preferred headphones are and will remain the indispensable medium for an individual listening experience. Together with the HD 820 you get different cables that you can use individually according to your preferences. All cables are impedance-matched and are characterized by low structure-borne noise. The 6.3 mm stereo plug acts as a standard connection for, for example, headphone amplifiers or DACs and A/V receivers. The 4.4mm connector paves the way to a new generation of balanced output devices such as headphone amplifiers, digital audio players and much more. An optional balanced XLR-4 cable is available as a popular connection to a variety of acoustic output devices. Each cable is 3m long and allows you to enjoy an unhindered listening experience, whether the output devices are on your shelf, set up in your studio or sitting on your desk.

Technical data

• Impedance: 300 ohms
• Audio transmission range (earpiece): 12 - 43800 Hz (-3 dB), 6 - 48000 Hz (-10 dB)
• Sound pressure level at 1 kHz: 103 dB at 1 kHz, 1V
• Connection to the ear: circumaural
• Connector plug: 6.35 mm / 4.4 mm, XLR-4 (optional)
• Cable length: 3m
• Weight: 360g without cable
• Transducer principle (receiver): dynamic, closed