Sennheiser has taken the wraps off a new version of its Sennheiser HD 800 headphones in the form of the HD 800 S, featuring improved mid and bass reproduction.While the transducer technology and earcup design of the HD 800 are utilised, Sennheiser states that the sound image of the HD 800 S “has once again been further optimised in the medium and low frequency range”.
The HD 800 S’ sound reproduction “has been optimised even beyond the high benchmark set by the HD 800”, which Sennheiser states has been made possible through the absorber technology first introduced in its IE 800 headphones, ensuring the so-called “masking effect” is neutralised.
“This acoustic phenomenon, that diminishes sound quality, arises as the human ear is unable to perceive higher-pitched sounds, that have low-volumes, at the same time that significantly louder sounds in a lower frequency range occur,” Sennheiser states.
“Through the application of the absorber technology, the energy of the resonances is absorbed, thus preventing any unwanted peaks in the frequency response and ensuring that even the finest nuances in the music remain audible over the entire frequency range.”
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The core of the new model is its transducer system which, measuring in at 56 millimetres and embedded in a specially manufactured stainless steel gauze, Sennheiser states is the largest transducer currently to be found in a set of dynamic headphones. A patented diaphragm minimises any distortion that might occur, especially at higher frequencies, keeping total harmonic distortion to less than 0.02 per cent.
The earcups, made of high-attenuation plastic and featuring a premium matte-black finish, have been designed in such a way that the sound waves are directed to the ear at a slight angle, ensuring a “particularly natural and spatial sound perception”, with the headband sporting a design consisting of several layers of sound-attenuating plastic and stainless steel, while the connector contacts are gold-plated.
The HD 800 S additionally comes with a symmetrical XLR4 cable.
Carrying a price tag of $2,499.95 RRP, the HD 800 S will be available in Australia from April next year.
