Sennheiser HD550 - Black

The Sennheiser HD 550 are open-back over-ear headphones with a 150-ohm transducer manufactured in ...

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CometSennheiser HD550 Black
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Product Information

Full details

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an open-back, over-ear headphone designed for serious audiophiles and critical listeners who prioritize a neutral, balanced sound profile. These headphones deliver exceptional precision and clarity for studio monitoring or home high-fidelity setups, though their 150-ohm impedance requires a dedicated amplifier to perform at their full potential and they are not suitable for noisy environments due to their open-back design.

All features

ColourBlack
Headphones Noise CancellationNone
SeriesHD550
BrandSennheiser

Extended Product Information

FAQs

Do I need an amplifier for the HD 550?

Yes, because of their 150-ohm impedance, a dedicated amplifier is highly recommended to achieve proper volume and sound quality.

Are these headphones noise-canceling?

No, the HD 550 is an open-back design, meaning it does not provide noise cancellation and will allow sound to leak both in and out.

Are they suitable for commuting?

No, due to the open-back nature of the design, they offer no isolation, meaning others will hear your music and you will hear background noise.

Can I use these for gaming?

Yes, they are excellent for gaming due to their wide soundstage, which helps with positional accuracy, provided you have a proper amplifier.

Where are the HD 550s manufactured?

The transducers for the HD 550 are manufactured in Ireland, adhering to high precision standards.

Troubleshooting

Sound is too quiet or lacks bass

Your source device likely lacks the power to drive 150-ohm headphones; connect them to a dedicated headphone amplifier.

One side is silent or intermittent

Check that the cable is fully seated in the earcup and the amplifier jack; test with a different cable if possible.

External noise is interfering with listening

The open-back design is intentional and does not isolate noise; relocate to a quieter room for optimal performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros

  • Exceptionally neutral and accurate sound reproduction
  • Spacious and immersive soundstage
  • High-quality, durable construction
  • Excellent comfort for long-duration sessions

Cons

  • High 150-ohm impedance requires a dedicated amplifier
  • Open-back design leaks sound and provides no noise isolation
  • Not suitable for portable use or loud public spaces

Setup, Compatibility & Care

To get the best results, connect the HD 550 to a dedicated headphone amplifier or high-end audio interface. When not in use, store the headphones on a dedicated stand in a dust-free area to keep the open-back grilles clean. Periodically inspect the ear pads for wear and replace them if they lose their shape, as the seal against the head is crucial for maintaining the intended frequency response. Avoid exposing the drivers to moisture or extreme temperatures, and ensure the cable is not coiled tightly to prevent internal wire damage.

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