Sennheiser HD400S Over-Ear Headphones review exploring sound quality and design durability

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Sennheiser HD400S Headset surprised me with its sturdy construction and foldable design. Having used numerous headphones in the past, I can confidently say this one strikes a balance between durability and portability. Its lightweight design—weighing just 7.7 ounces—makes it easy to carry around, and it fits well into my travel routine. The plastic material doesn’t feel cheap, and the around-ear earpiece shape ensures a snug fit for extended listening sessions. While the design is minimalistic, the tangle-free cable is a lifesaver, especially when pulling it out of my bag. The black finish gives it a sleek and professional look, though I wish there were a few more color options to suit individual preferences.

Sound Performance

When it comes to sound, this headset delivers. The dynamic drivers produce a very wide sound response, and the 18 Hz – 20 kHz frequency range means you’ll catch every note, from deep bass to crisp highs. I tested it with a mix of genres, from bass-heavy tracks to acoustic melodies, and the results were impressive. The 120 dB sensitivity ensures sound clarity even at lower volumes, which is something I appreciate during late-night sessions. However, the closed-back style slightly limits the soundstage, making it less suitable for users who prefer a more open, airy listening experience.

I did notice that the sound isolation was effective in reducing external noise, allowing me to focus on my music without distractions. Despite not having active noise cancellation, the passive isolation performed admirably—perfect for use in moderately noisy environments.

Control and Connectivity

One feature I found incredibly convenient was the smart one-button remote control. Located on the cable, it allows for easy control of music and calls, which is perfect when I’m multitasking. The 3.5 mm jack ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices, and I had no trouble connecting it to my phone, laptop, or even my tablet. While the wired connectivity might feel outdated to some, I personally prefer the reliability of a corded connection, especially for uninterrupted audio.

Unfortunately, the lack of wireless connectivity might be a dealbreaker for users leaning towards Bluetooth options. Although I don’t mind wired headsets, it would’ve been nice to have the flexibility of both wired and wireless modes.

Comfort and Usability

The ear cushions included with the headset are soft and comfortable, even during extended use. I’ve worn these for hours while working and didn’t experience any discomfort. The adjustable headband ensures a good fit for different head sizes, which is a bonus since I occasionally share headphones with my spouse. However, the lack of water resistance means you’ll want to avoid wearing these during workouts or in humid conditions.

Another thing to note is that the 1.4-meter cable length provides just the right amount of freedom without being cumbersome. It’s long enough to use comfortably at a desk but not so long that it gets in the way during portable use.

Key Benefits

• Sturdy and foldable design makes it highly portable.
• Dynamic drivers deliver a wide sound response with deep bass.
• Smart one-button remote simplifies controlling music and calls.
• Tangle-free cable ensures hassle-free usage.
• Lightweight build enhances comfort for long listening sessions.

Caveats

• No wireless connectivity, which limits flexibility.
• The closed-back design slightly compromises the soundstage.
• Lacks water resistance, making it unsuitable for outdoor sports or rainy conditions.

Product Contenders

Comparing the Sennheiser HD400S Headset to similar products, such as the Sony MDR-7506 and the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x, reveals some interesting differences. The Sony MDR-7506 offers a more neutral sound profile, which might appeal to studio professionals, but its design feels bulkier and less portable. On the other hand, the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x provides a slightly wider soundstage, yet it’s heavier and less travel-friendly than the HD400S.

What sets this headset apart is its lightweight build and compact design, which make it ideal for casual users or frequent travelers. However, if you’re after Bluetooth connectivity or advanced noise cancellation, you might find the competition more appealing.

Value for Money

In terms of price-to-quality ratio, this product delivers well. The sound performance and build quality you get at this price point are impressive, especially when compared to pricier alternatives. While it lacks some premium features like wireless connectivity or active noise cancellation, it excels in offering reliable performance and durability. I’d recommend it to anyone looking for affordable yet high-quality headphones without unnecessary frills.

Additional information