Sennheiser has launched the HD 620S, its latest pair of headphones that attempt to balance performance, noise isolation and comfort.
This model is a little strange, but in a good way. The line of which it is a part, the HD 600 series, is made up entirely of open headphones. They are excellent for generating high quality audio. However, they are not as good at blocking outside noise, making them unsuitable for travel. The HD 620S swim against the current as they are a pair of closed-back headphones. Devices with this design are much better at preventing noise from leaking out.
The company claims that the cup lids are reinforced with steel that acts as “an effective insulator.” Each houses a 42mm dynamic driver with a 38mm diaphragm that envelops the listener in a bubble of sound. Alongside them are 150 ohm aluminum voice coils that ensure clear vocal clarity and precise output. The result is a pair of high-performance headphones capable of covering a wide range of audio. Sennheiser even boasts a more powerful bass response than the HD 600, a pair of headphones that can reportedly reproduce “realistic sound.”
A comfortable fit
One of the problems with closed-back headphones is that they can be uncomfortable to wear. Its insulating design means air doesn't flow, which can lead to hot, sweaty ears. The HD 620S, however, also focuses on offering a comfortable experience more akin to that of open-back headphones. Sennheiser says the combination of “spacious headphone covers and flexible ear pads” allows for good ventilation so that heat doesn't get trapped. Like the cup covers, the headband is made of reinforced steel for durability. They're also lightweight, with the entire package weighing 670g (about 1.5 pounds).
Pre-orders for the Sennheiser HD 620S are currently open. You can buy a pair for $349.95/£299.99/AU$599.95. The shipping date is set for June 6. With one purchase, you will receive a six-foot (1.8 meter) cable. In the coming months, all audiophiles will be able to purchase an optional 4.4mm balanced cable for even better audio fidelity.
Analysis: good first impression
You can think of these headphones as a jack of all trades. In the announcement, Sennheiser mentions how the HD 620S “combines the DNA of the HD 600 and 500 series, bringing together the best of both” worlds. But will he be good enough to be a Master of All? Could it herald a new era of headphones that merge the best aspects of open- and closed-ear designs into one? Maybe. At the very least, it will come close.
TechRadar Audio Editor Becky Scarrott recently had the opportunity to test the HD 620S and her first impressions were positive. She stated: “They feel incredibly light to hold and [wear]”, stating that the padding of the headband “is exceptional.” Regarding her performance, Becky said that “the levels of detail are also excellent.” They are on the same level as the HD 600. And she concludes by saying: “The first signs are good!”
So far, they've made a good first impression on Becky. Whether or not the HD 620S is the start of a new trend remains to be seen. In the meantime, check out TechRadar's list of the best headphones for 2024.
