DISCLAIMER: I finally managed to get a sample of the highly discussed Sennheiser HD700 a couple of months after Mike was in possession of the pre-production sample. Do read his diary first to get a full picture of the headphone because I won’t go into detail about everything, this is merely my point of view of the HD700. The review sample was already returned to Sennheiser in the meantime, as usual.
SOUND
After having read all the criticism about the sound, the bad measurements and its price, I really didn’t know what to expect but from the first minute I plugged in the HD700, I really liked it. Sometimes it’s good to trust your ears too and not only measurements.
What immediately strikes you when coming from the Sennheiser HD600/650 is the larger and deeper sound stage of the HD700. There is a lot more space between the instruments and the sound is much clearer and detailed. Not to the same extent as the HD800 but it is right in between the other models. The sound from the HD700 is very relaxed like a lot of the other Sennheiser headphones and the HD700 has this warm feeling (not warm like the HD650 of course) but it is strongly amp dependent. More on the amplifier pairings later. I would even dare to say the HD700 is speaker like in a way, it’s a dangerous statement, I know, but they sound so open and clear it’s amazing. (The HD700 is an open headphone as you all know and it leaks a lot of outgoing and incoming sound).
Bass on the HD700 can go really deep and can be really punchy as well but it will depend on your source material and the amplification used. In general the bass definitely is there, not like the HD650’s bass though and it isn’t a bass head headphone for sure. Bass here is more detailed and cleaner and less heavy as with the HD650, but it has more quality to it. It is closer to the HD650’s bass as it is to the HD800’s. Bass is never loose on the HD700 but the bass impact does depend on the amplifier used. In this regard the standard Bottlehead Crack with a Westinghouse branded Tung-Sol 6080wa tube scores best and gives you the heaviest bass.
The mid range of the HD700 was the most special to me. Vocals are very natural and real, clear and uncolored. This makes it a strong point and at the same time a weak spot of the HD700. For some songs this was great while with others it sounded a bit forward. Overall the mid range is very good but it might not suite all different musical styles. The mid range, like with many things on this headphone, is right in between that of the 650 and 800 but the HD700 is quite a bit faster as the 650.
Treble is also very detailed and overall very good. I have to agree with some of the opinions found online that the treble sometimes can be a bit hot, however this isn’t always the case and most of the time treble is perfect. I found it to be too hot mostly while listening to dance music like Netsky.
I wouldn’t say the HD700 is the perfect all-rounder. It is close and does all the genres good to extremely good, I love its sound, yet I wouldn’t recommend it if you only listen to rap and punk music. The HD700 is analytical but at the same time it is fast, it’s exciting, it has excellent balance and instrumental separation and just is fun to listen to. Build quality of the headphone and the Kevlar cable is great and it is one, if not “the” most comfortable headphone I ever had on my head.
AMPLIFICATION
We all know Sennheisers work best with OTL tube amps and luckily I have 3 of those here with me.
Without pre-amps or anything the best amplifier for the HD700 was, and here we go again, the Bottlehead Crack. Was this amp specially made for Sennheiser or what? The Crack works best for 150Ohm and surprisingly enough the HD700 is exactly rated that. Great sound stage, clarity and the best bass (tiny bit looser). With the Violectric V200, the only non OTL amp I tried it with, I got a lighter but very good tight bass, very fast and good sounding but too solid state sounding for me with this headphone. Not as smooth sounding and warm.
The Woo Audio WA2 and the LaFigaro 339 were very close. There is a very slight hum with the HD700 when no music is playing. It’s the first headphone to do that with both amps. It doesn’t bother when listening however and it sounds pretty good but less tube-ish. Bass has less impact as with the Crack and both amps are lighter, not as smooth & warm sounding but they are very clear. They both are a nice match but the Crack is that bit completer. The WA2 will give you more top treble and a bigger sound stage while the 339 gives you a bit more bass and body.
The very best result I achieved when using the WA2 as a pre-amp and the Lafigaro 339 as amplifier. Great bass, perfect detail, just the right smoothness, awesome mids, etc. Incredible. But we’re talking about a +$2K setup here, amplification only. It actually works better as WA2 + Crack (bass is a bit tighter), but when not using a pre-amp, the Crack solo is the best (and cheapest) for the HD700.
Continue to the next page…
Mike
Me and L should set up a Bottlehead Crack fan club.
Mike
Oh and if anybody wants to trade his HD700 with my HD800, I’m all for it. Straight trade no additional cash needed.
Nick Tam
@headfonia:disqus
Unfortunately, every is holding onto their HD700s : it’s just that much “better” to enjoy over the HD800, haven’t seen any preowned up for trade even up till now
Now we all want a HD700 ever so badly even though we have the HD650
L.
Yes they’re hard to find on the 2nd hand market. Which surprises me and not at all. Let me explain.
1. I’m not surprised because I love it too, I wouldn’t part of it.
2. After all the bad things people are saying about it (don’t fully agree obviously) you would assume finding more on the 2nd hand market
The thing is that the sound sigs are so different (yet recognizable) that the 700 and 650 can easily be combined in your collection. It’s not like you can just own 1 right? 😉
Nick Tam
I’m not all that surprised either… since the only people that buy them to start with are probably firmly in the Sennheiser camp and probably wouldn’t want to let go of it unless they’re already holding onto a pair of HD800 and have an uber setup to go with it.
And yet again… locals wouldn’t buy 2nd hand since the street price is good here ($890) so I’d doubt any 2nd hand trades would come up in local forums :
Mike
I’m going to talk to my partners in the store so we can have a HD700 demo unit. 😉
Just kidding, the store doesn’t work that way. 😉
Mike
I told everyone “I wish my HD800 sounds like the HD700” when I got the pre-pro sample!
Anaxilus
So you want a straight up trade for the HD700 using your HD800? K, I’ll take you up on that. Reply here or email me and let’s get it done.
Mike
I sent you an email.
Anaxilus
Got it. It seems Fedex from Japan would only be $55 so shipping cost doesn’t seem too bad. Let me know if you change your mind.
Mike
Alright, thanks man
L.
Your turn, I already set up the HD650 Fan Club 😀
Nick Tam
You guys do that… Mike’s photography skills warrants a fan page
Mike
Lieven took the photos for this one, Nick.
Or are you saying his photos suck indirectly? 😉
L.
I think he means in general, if not a ban is coming up 😉
Nick Tam
@headfonia:disqus
I meant the photos for the Crack review =.=
There was no further meaning to that statement, not that L’s photos suck, it’s just that Mike does do most of the reviews afterall.
And I can’t tell who takes the photos on Facebook so I’ll just have to give credit to both of you guys?
Nick Tam
Couldn’t resist… oh well
http://www.facebook.com/BottleheadCrackFanpage
Trent_D
Thanks, Nick.
Gorboman
If only they were priced at a lower number. That’s the only gripe I have with the HD700.
Mike
So you’re hooked to the sound of the HD700 too!
Gorboman
I wasn’t using a proper setup when I auditioned it. But I believe it has that big of a potential. Not to mention it’s not as picky with source and setup than the HD800. It’s just the price that’s holding me back.
Damián Bonadonna
“You’re still getting a headphone that’s superior in technicalities even compared to the most popular $1K headphones out there, including the Audio Technica dynamics (W5000, W3000ANV), or the planars from Hifiman and Audez’e.”
As I share your sound preferences, are you telling me that this headphone is far more superior than the HE400 rev2?
Mike
Technicalities, yes the HD700 is superior. “Far more”? I don’t know, “far” is a relative term.
Damián Bonadonna
Speaking of Thailand.. I found this site and they have a button to that goes to your site? 😛
http://munkonggadget.tarad.com/?lang=th
Mike
Yes the owner is a good friend.
L.
What Mike says. Plus the sound is different (ortho vs dyn). If I had to choose between both, I’d go for the HD700 with the right amp (very important because the HE400 does good on a lot of amps!)
Damián Bonadonna
I will go to Bangkok in a week… I hope I could find some shop to audition the HE400 and then the HD700.
Mike
You can check with munkonggadget.com. They should have those headphones.
Gorboman
comfort should also be taking into consideration. i think the hd700 is the better choice for long listening session.
L.
Yes, definitely. the HD700 is comfort king
Mike
Yea even more than the HD800 I find.
Marc_D26
Hey Mike, sorry to interrupt, I found that the HD800 is a VERY BIG relief, lightweight & super comfy after listening to the likes of Audeze or Hifimans, In what sense does the HD700 even more comfy than the HD800 if I may ask? Well I never tried the HD700 myself, my experience with the HD650 was it grips quite tightly (less comfy than the HD800). Thanks 🙂
Mike
Biggest difference is that the HD700 is even lighter than the 800. So you can imagine it’s even better on the head.
The pads are soft — almost similar to the HD800 (perhaps the same even), but it’s still more comfortable than the HD800. My guess is the lighter weight plays a big role in this.
Marc_D26
Thanks Mike, appreciate your comments!
Does the smaller earcups make it more stable when used while your head lying on the bed? The HD800 earcups while spacious is a bit loose when used while resting on my pillow, did this also happen to your HD800?
Well bad things though it seems that it doesn’t sound like upgraded HD650 nor similar tonality to the LCD-2. I’m thinking of using aftermarket cables to alter the HD700 sound signature a bit.
Mike
I think these are not the type you would wear lying on the bed. It’s a bit more stable than the HD800, but still it would probably move if you lie down on the bed.
You really should take the time to listen to them, rather than making conclusion based on the fact that they are not HD650 or LCD-2 like. It’s a very impressive headphone. I like it more than the 800 and so does L.
Mike
The question to ask is “Do you think the lack of bass impact was a conscious decision from Sennheiser?” Do you think they have the capability to add bass impact without sacrificing technicalities, but decided they wouldn’t do that?
L.
I think that with the right amp, the bass impact is there. Not like the HD650 but fairly good. Unfortunately most people cant try 5 or more different desktop amps, so they say stuff that aren’t entirely correct
Nick Tam
I think that it really is all to do with the amping to be honest, perhaps we should specify that the Crack is the benchmarking amplifier for dynamic headphones?
I know, we should do a amplifier poll on the facebook page
Nick Tam
That’s where tube rolling comes in =)
Trent_D
I have been waiting for this review a while. It did not disappoint.
L.
Thank you Trent. Glad you liked it
Gavin TheEmperor Tyndale
How does this compare to the hifi man he -500
Mike
L should be able to answer but from my take:
HD700: superior soundstage reproduction, better three dimensionality, smoother and more refined.
HE-500: more spacious, more open, more forward, more lively.
L.
Smoother yes, but the HE500 can be smooth too with the right tube amp. Sound stage wise the difference wasn’t too big imo. You’re right about the HE-500
The HD700 is the more musical sounding, the HE500 the more analytical one. Bass on the Sennheiser has more body, maybe not the detail.
Listening to the HD700 often reminded me of my HE500. I think they’re more or less on the same level. But each headphone has its own strengths. I preferred some albums on the Senn, others on the HE500. Very tough choice quality wise. Comfort wise it’s a no brainer 😉
Guest
Did you use a random word generator to write this?
darku
Very nice review Lieven, love Mike’s review also.
Just one think needs to be said. HD700 is brighter than HD800 or
than Beyer T1, so potential buyers beware.
Also HD700 does not have multi layered sound as HD800 has and the detail
retrieval is weaker.
As much as I love Sennheiser brand and owning all their high end cans
(except HE90 of course) I can say that HD700 is their weak link right
now, it was a disappointment for me. On a very revealing system, HD700
is far from HD800 quality. Of course all is my opinion with my own ears
🙂
If someone is thinking about buying HD700 I’d put a little more money
and buy true reference quality HD800’s
Nick Tam
I think it was made very clear that HD700 is not a HD800 beater and does sit between the HD650 and HD800 and was not designed to be a reference flagship as the HD800 was meant to be. Since you do own the Sennheisers I wouldn’t be surprised that the HD700 was a disappointment as it isn’t a compliment to the HD650-800 but rather a bridge of them both. Sennheiser do not describe the HD700 as “reference” class headphones either so don’t expect too much :
darku
Nick, I never told HD700 should be better. It should be a “bridge” between HD650 and HD800 as you said, but it isn’t.
Actually I like HD650 more than HD700, and I like HD800 more than both (on a right system).
HD700 are not worth 1000 USD IMO, build quality is on par with HD650, but it has better comfort and sound quality is a side step comparing with HD650.
It should be near HD800 sonically as price/design/marketing says but it’s far from that, it is quite far from HD800.
All of this is IMO and on my own ears 🙂
Nick Tam
I guess it really is hard for people on $$$ setups lol… you get incredibly picky
Mike
Yes,
and unless what you do is sit down and pick on technicalities, then it shouldn’t be a big deal. I would still trade my 800 for the 700.
Dietmar Gsell
As it is not “reference class”,why the high price tag…..for mid-fi?
Gorboman
what makes you say that the hd700 is mid-fi?
L.
The HD700 isn’t their reference headphone but it still is HiFi. Price is a bit too much on the HD800’s side as I mentioned in my review
Nick Tam
Put it this way… the HD700 nearly has the street price of the HE-6 so based on pricing alone, they fall under the “hifi” category xP
Mike
This is far from mid-fi. It’s clearly reference class.
Nick Tam
They are very hifi headphones, they’re ahead of the HE500 IMO. Just not “reference cans” because the HD800 handily occupies that title for the Sennheisers.
Mike
Thanks, Darku.
Chris Allen
Is it brighter than the beyerdynamic DT990?
L.
No it is not
Chris Allen
Than I must listen to it! 🙂 Is the HD700 similar in bass presence when compared to the DT990?
L.
Not really no. The Beyer’s bass has more rumble
Chris Allen
Is it sort of like the HD600? It sounds like a really interesting headphone already. I wish I could at least demo it.
L.
Yes you really have to listen to it on a good amp. Bass has more detail as the 600, it’s not quit the same bass as the 600
Chris Allen
“Sometimes it’s good to trust your ears too and not only measurements.”
I can’t emphasize more on how true this statement is. Before I purchased my beyerdynamic DT990 – 600Ω, I was unsure on how it would sound. No reviews of it would help because everyone has their own opinion. Some said that the sound was too harsh because of the measurements of the headphone. That terrified me. However, once I had it on my head, my foot was tapping and my ears were not bleeding.
It is as you say; its always best to trust your ears. Great write up, L! 🙂
L.
Thanks Chris, appreciate it!
Zombie_X
Good review guys. I haven’t heard heard the HD700 but I’ve heard it’s a bit overpriced. What do you guys think? I wonder how the T90 stacks up against it…
Mike
The T70 was underwhelming, let’s hope the T90 would be better.
Michael Julius
My Hd700 will be here tomorrow! I am so excited, cant wait to hear it with the Bottlehead using a 5998 and my Aune Dac using a Telefunken tube. Ugh…i should be “unavailable” for at least 24 hours lol.
L.
The 5998 might make it a bit too forward sounding, try a more smooth sounding tube as well
Guest
You are absolutely right. It is too forward. Quite a difference between it and the stock Westinghouse I got with my Bottlehead. The Bass is noticeably more smooth and lush, as are the mids, but the highs are the biggest difference. They are significantly less harsh and bright. Funny, the 5998 is the best tube I have for my DX1000 and Hifiman He500 by a significant margin, but sounds pretty bad with the HD700 🙂
Guest
You are absolutely right. It is too forward. Quite a difference between it and the stock Westinghouse I got with my Bottlehead. The Bass is noticeably more smooth and lush on the Westinghouse, as are the mids, but the highs are the biggest difference. They are significantly less harsh and bright, everything to my ears is more enjoyable with the cheaper tube. Funny, the 5998 is the best tube I have for my DX1000 and Hifiman He500, but sounds pretty bad with the HD700 🙂
Nick Tam
Strange that you should find the 6080 more “lush” than the 5998… but I’m guessing the sound signature of the HD700 doesn’t go well with those tubes that were a bliss with the HD650
Guest
My HD700 Arrived a few hours ago. It is a great complement to my JVC DX-1000 and Hifiman HE-500. I think I have all the bases covered now and my ears won’t be getting bored anytime soon. I have some positive and negative feedback about this headphone.
Michael Julius
My HD700 Arrived a few hours ago. I have some positive and negative feedback about this headphone.
Michael Julius
My HD700 Arrived today. Initial impressions are all negative.
L.
One word: amplification!
Trent_D
Two words: send here!
L.
Working on that 😉
Nick Tam
Wow all the hate about the HD700 already… wait till Sennheiser release a HD750…
Trent_D
I always prefer positive thought.
Mike
People used to hate the HD650 and the HD800 when they were released…
Nick Tam
Some still hate the HD800. For various trivial reasons or because it doesn’t play pop 😛
Julius
I hate my HD700 and HD800 for a number of reasons. I can type up pages of gripes I have for both models. They are just not my cup of tea at all. Hate is a very strong word and also one I rarely use. However, it is the best term I can think of to accurately describe the feeling I get when I listened to my HD700. The only quality about the HD800 I found breathtaking was the sound staging qualities. Truly knocks my socks off every time I use it.
Vern
Paired with the V200, surprisingly pop doesn’t sound half bad on it. Still not as good as it sounds on the HE-500 or LCD-2, but not as bad as it’s claimed to be on many other amps.
L.
I think a big problem are people who complain about a product, especially the HD700/800, that have never heard it, or only listened to it shortly during a meet and probably on the wrong amp. a lot of people who talk bad about a product have only read about it or only look at the mesurements (here we go again :D)
Vern
Very well spoken, L. I won’t even lie, when I first got the HD800, I plugged it into the LF339. I was very disappointed that what I thought would be the best headphones I’d ever heard turned out to be, in my mind, extremely overhyped and terrible sounding.
Once I decided to change up a bit and plug the HD800 into the V200, my feelings about the HD800 took a complete 360 degree turn.
Hopefully when I’m finally able to hear the HD700, I’ll have the same feelings 🙂
L.
Looks like we have a lot of same gear! When did you get the 339 and V200? Before or after my review? 😀
Vern
After I realized my musical tastes/preferences were VERY similar to yours (Hence after your reviews). They were very inspirational reviews.
I read that you weren’t a huge fan of the HD800 from some of your comments. You should try it again on the V200. You might be blown away as I was =P
Apogee
Any chance either Mike or L has tried the HD700 with the WA6 with sofia princess.
Mike
Sorry, I don’t think so. Maybe L with the WA2.
L.
WA2 I tried but that one doesn’t have the princess 😉
Kanra
Seems like the same thing goes around everywhere… In China, we have people who say bad things of headphones before listening to them, too. In fact, I am confused because many times, some people say a type of headphone is good but some other people say it’s bad at the same time! When I don’t have the chance to listen to them, it’s hard to decide. By the way, I have HD650 by now, would you suggest me to change it to HD700? Is it easier to make HD700 works well than to make HD650 works well? Please give me some suggestions.
Nick Tam
It’s hard not to love the HD700 if you’re into the Sennheiser sound abeit a lighter bass. And I’m sorry to say but… they sound “bad” if they’re not well amplified. And who knows if the Senns you’re using are not fake? For one Sennheiser products are commonly faked… just saying but that may be true, I’m just pointing out that for the HD650/700 to sound good, you need very good synergy in your setup. For one, OTL amplifiers are a bliss with the HD600/650/700/800.
What is your current setup?
Kanra
Alright, I must admit I am a new guy… right now, my setup is completely protable: Colorfly C4 Player as the source and Mini Audio MAD-05 as the AMP. I am pretty sure that I cannot expect HD650 to sounds very good in this setup(although is still brilliant and beats whatever headphones I ever had very easily)… That’s why I asked if HD700 will be easier to handle(according to its 150 Ohm when HD650 is 300 Ohm). I am trying to get the money for a better setup.
L.
It is easier to get the HD650 to sound good as the HD700.
Nick Tam
Easier to drive is different from easier to sound good. The general variety of mobile amps could drive the Senns, yes. But good sounding amplifiers for the Senns are usually tube based ones which tend to cost quite a premium.
Kanra
Mike, Nick and L, thank you for helping my basic questions patiently! I will try to get a better desktop setup for HD650 and try HD700 sometime!
Trent_D
And if you are wondering what might be some good desktop setups, look around the website. Good dac and amp pairings for the HD650 might have been discussed before… somewhere…
Mike
Need a better desktop set up, then you can make both the 650 and 700 sing.
John Clare
Quick question guys, how is the bass on the HD 700 compared to the Beyer DT 770 AE and the AKG K550? I realise the Sennheiser is a step up and that it’s open instead of closed. Also, does the Sennheiser 650 have more bass than all of the above? Thanks!
Mike
Stronger punch and impact than the 550 and roughly comparable to the 770 AE. And yes the 650 have more bass.
John Clare
Thanks Mike!
L.
I haven’t been liking the HD650 lately. It’s all the AE’s fault 😀
ryan
AE is addictive, I have not touch my HD650. I have tried taking out my HD650 for a listen. Trying not to abandon it but in the end it still goes back to the box.
L.
I even prefer the AE’s bass impact
Trent_D
I really hope they do put this headphone into permanent production after the 4000 sell out.
ryan
I hope they remain as limited edition coz I pay a premium for it. Dem.
ryan
I am hearing more bass on the 770 AE than the 650.
L.
especially lower bass
John Clare
Would I be wasting the HD 700 on the CLAS + the National?
Valentin
The CLAS is a fantastic source. The National is quite good. I think it would do well with the HD700, considering its wide(r) soundstage than the LCD-2. If I were you I’d take a look at VorzAMPpure instead. Sure, it’s a bit more expensive…
Please note that I haven’t listened to the CLAS+National+HD700. This is pure speculation from my own experiences with The National, Continental, VorzAMP etc…
/V
L.
The HD700 is very picky on amps. I haven’t tried it with the National so I can’t judge it but I’d listen to it first.
John Clare
Thanks L, I’ve been rethinking this and might try the HE-500 instead.
Marc_D26
Hi Mike, would you mind to give insights of sound quality differences (pros & cons) between this HD700 against the Beyer T1? Do they belong to the same class in terms of resolution & detail wise? Because I think the HD800 still better in that departments against the HD700.
Would you also say that this HD700 might be more comfortable than the T1? I’m worried that the small HD700 earcups not that spacious-looking.
Thanks.
Marc_D26
What’s your opinions Mike? Thanks.
Jethro Lubas
How well would the HD700 sound when paired to a Asus Xonar Essence One?
Nick Tam
Come to think about it, why is there never a comparison of the HD700 to the LCD-2?
Mike
Interesting question
L.
Dynamic vs ortho maybe?
Windsor McGilvray
I was just browsing this a few minutes ago (well done guys!) and was interested in Mike’s end words about trading his HD 800 for the HD 700. I was a bit surprised at that at first, but then I remembered comparing some headphones extensively a few months ago and seeing the HD 700 come out on top over the HD 800: http://www.head-fi.org/t/612250/headphone-comparison-sennheiser-hd-600-hd-700-hd-800-hd-25-1-and-the-amperior-audio-technica-ath-m50s-audeze-lcd-2-rev-2-and-the-lcd-3
Mike
Yeah, I do think that the 700 would eventually come out to be the more popular one.
Sometimes it takes time for these kind of things to be picked up by the market. I’ve lived and auditioned the HD800 with so many different set ups, and I think that the 700 is overall the more likable headphone.
Windsor McGilvray
I’ve been living with the HD 800 for a few years now, and when I am in a certain, clear state-of-mind and listen with it from a decent source (CD/Lavry DA10), it’s probably the most unmatched rig I’ve found in terms of revealing what’s on a recording, but it’s not for everyone.
There are times when I just prefer to rock out and so listen with the Amperior, but when my head is clear, the relative accuracy of the HD 800 can really hit the spot. 🙂
Windsor McGilvray
I found it much easier to rock out with the HD 700 than the HD 800 in the short time I had access to them both, but I haven’t listened with the HD 700 for extended periods of time. Might invest in one at the future at some point. Otherwise, I’m keen to try the TH900, but happy with what I have, even using the Apple In-Ears with my laptop / E17.
Great to see you still doing your thing Mike and L. 🙂
Marty Filipponi
i have a denon 4308 receiver which according to denon puts out 600 ohms to the headphone jack, that’s all they could tell me. i was thinking about adding a amp, and was hoping to find something that could plug into my headphone jack, 1/4 ” and not my pre outs. my reason is that the denon comes with internet radio, and a enhancer (decompressor) . plus the eq settings. it sounds great. if i use my preouts, i will bypass these enhancements. it seems like most of the better amps only use preouts L/R. any suggestions?
Mike
That sounds really complicated. What headphone are you using?
Marty Filipponi
grado 325i, but was thinking of springing for a pair of hd 800s
Mike
What I recommend you do is get a nice OTL tube amp and bypass the Denon receiver. Something entry level like the Bottlehead Crack would do well for the Grado, and moderately well for the upcoming HD800. If you have more budget, something like the Eddie Current Zana Deux would be great for both Grado and HD800.
Marty Filipponi
i had ordered a asgard, but canceled it when i ran into the problem i described.
Mike
Alright, still I recommend you get a dedicated headphone amp and bypass the Denon.
Marty Filipponi
ok, thanks mike
Mike
You’re welcome.
Peter
About a 1/2 year ago when we had just finished the mix of the audiophile recording ”Torn” by Carmen Gomes inc.,I took a copy of the mix with me to the RAF high end store here in Amsterdam.
They had the HD700 and the HD800 on display.I was curious as to how the mix,done on the Grimm LS 1 speakers,would translate to high end Headphones.
I must say that I was impressed!
At Sound Liaison we like a a clear placement of the instruments,really trying to make the band almost visual,and with a lot of depth and spaciousness in the sound stage.
Of the difference of the two…
I found the HD 800 absolutely fantastic for the quiet tunes,i.e.”Love in Vain” and the version of ”Let´s go get Stoned” with the beautiful double bass introduction.
But the last 2 tunes of the album,the louder tunes,Tom Waits “Train song” with a slightly distorted slide guitar solo,and the version of B.B.Kings ”the Thrill is Gone ”´with the laid back 2nd line drum groove I really liked the HD 700,maybe even preferring it to the HD800.
But if I had to choose, I would go for the HD800.It really gives me the same sense of space and depth that I hear on our High End Grimm speakers,translate the sound we had in mind really well.
But maybe If you listen mostly to music with a heavy back beat,the 700 will do a great job.
But all in all fantastic Headphones.
Mike
Thanks for sharing, Peter.
George Lai
Mike, Lieven, it looks like the market, at least in the US, is not taking to the HD700, as the price has dropped from US$999 to US$649 recently. In view of that, would you be even more glowing of it now? Seriously though, at that price point, you’re looking at HE-500 and Alpha Dogs to name but two.
Mike
Not a short answer for this. But basically I still feel that the HD700 is an easier to enjoy headphone will offering almost the same technicalities.
How the market responds to it, I definitely can’t predict.
George Lai
Indeed, and if the market doesn’t respond by Black Friday, which is just two weeks away, I’ll be sorely tempted 😉
L.
The Alpha’s are closed so the comparison isn’t right imo. HE-500 and HD700 are both great, I couldn’t choose between them. And that’s exactly why I have way too many headphones
George Lai
You and me both.
Dave Ulrich
Geez, that is just $149 more than the HD650. Puts it together with the T90.
L.
HD650 here is 289€ or $380. Which is INCREDIBLY low. This quality at that price means everyone should buy a HD650. No excuses allowed.
HD650 is still king. King I tell ya!
🙂
Dave Ulrich
I was just looking at amazon. That’s a better price difference.
Dave Ulrich
No arguments here
L.
My friend bought the HD650 new for 230€….
Shilelis
And where I could find that lowed priced HD650?? In sennheiser official site its 459€ not 230€… 🙂
L.
Amazon.fr It often drops there to incredible amounts
Shilelis
Thank you very much, now I`ll watch the price everyday :). Maybe some more tricks? Like Bottlehead Crack or smth? 😀
George Lai
And it’s down another US$100 today. Now just US$549 😉
dalethorn
I figure that 90 percent of the 700’s they’ve distributed up to now have been review samples and other PR giveaways, so any sales at the lower price are bound to increase their net profits.
Robert Burns
Have a pair currently on route and got a sneaking suspicion my impressions may mirror Mike’s
and also looking at his comparison in “Old School Trio: AKG K701, Beyerdynamics
DT880, Sennheiser HD650” IMO are dead on.
Just to note, my main speakers are Dynaudio Special Twenty Fives, and for those who are familiar with Dynaudio the 25s are considered to be the black sheep as they do veer from the familiar Dyn sound, compared to the C1’s for example which 90% appear to prefer, me I’ll stick my 25s and my gut feeling (at least from all that I’ve read) is that the HD700s will be the same.
L.
Mike or mine’s? This is my review here 😉
Let us know what you think of it, what amp will you be using?
Robert Burns
Hi Lieven,
Mike’s for now as I’m only projecting but I will comment once I get acquainted with them.
I’ll be running them off a Bryston BHA-1, source being a Bryston BCD-1, my current roster are the Akg K701s/K501s, Senn HD580/600 and Grado SR325is.
Robert
Robert Burns
Hi Lieven
First off “Happy New Year”
Took awhile but my HD700s finally showed up yesterday, a cursory
listen (5-6 hrs) mirrored more or less yours and Mike’s impressions.
As mentioned above I’m using a Bryston BCD-1 as source balanced to a BHA-1 for amplification.
What was great was that instead of jumping through numerous tidbits of audio nirvana and being swept into audiophile neurosis I actually got immersed and “almost” listened to each disc in its entirety.
Started off by burning the 700’s in with Underworld’s “Dark and Long” and then Kraftwerk’s Live “Minimum-Maximum” and kept them on repeat until I closed my shop at the end of the day.
Finally getting a chance to chill out I sat down with Brian Eno’s “Another Day on Earth”, George Crumb “An Idyl for the Misbegotten”, Leslie Fiest’s “The Reminder” and Dave Hollands “Prime Directive”.
The Senn signature was there but different, the HD580/600 are great phones and have stood the test of time but the HD700s appear to have
brought everything up to date. Clarity was one word that came to mind but what I was mostly impressed by and just quote you, “I would even dare to say the HD700 is speaker like in a way, it’s a dangerous statement, I know, but they sound so open and clear it’s amazing. “
My biggest caveat with the Senn 600 series was that even
though imaging layering was great, the central image quite often was produced larger than life and disproportionate to what I consider a proper sound stage, therefore more convex in nature, my AKG K701s do the opposite and produce a staging that is way too concave.
The HD700s IMHO nailed it, producing the best natural staging, width and depth that I’ve gotten out of a pair phones and somewhat reminiscing my Dynaudio Special 25s speakers, that also applies to tonality and voicing, therefore neutral.
But to sum up without sounding too pretentious I’d say the HD700
is very “audiophile like”, at least from what I have experienced so far, in that they do not overlay any specific sonic signature of their own to the recording unlike my AKGs, Grados and other Senns, so basically very chameleon in nature.
Robert
Dave Ulrich
Glad you like them!
Robert Burns
Yep! Overall a nice fresh addition to the Senn line-up, and like Mike mentioned, actually preferable in many ways over the HD800s.
L.
Thanks for your post Robert. I’m glad you like them like I do. Happy new year and enjoy the HD700!
Atte Loikkanen
L, is your trade offer still on?
L.
That wasn’t my offer, that was Mike’s (A little bit from Mike). We’ll see what he replies!
Atte Loikkanen
Oh, yes. It was a different section sorry. We’ll see 😀
boy93
Hello, between the HD 700 and LCD-x which advise me if I listen to all genres of music?
dalethorn
LCDx
L.
Care to explain why? It’s like triple the price of the HD700 as well
dalethorn
If the user is considering a top-quality planar and can afford it, that’s the way to go. It isn’t just a “better headphone” than the HD700 – it’s a whole new world of sound quality. Now if the customer feels like they made too big of a sacrifice after purchasing and they start to feel bad that they spent too much, then that can lead to dissatisfaction and unhappiness. After 7 years in electronics retail, I could pre-qualify customers on that basis pretty well, but it’s not practical on the Internet. But with “all other things being equal” except the price, as the saying goes, I’d definitely go for the planar if the funds are available. Making sure the item is returnable is a plus.
L.
ok, fair point. but he should also take into account the other units in his setup like the dac and amp
dalethorn
I’m reluctant, given the expense of time, to ask a lot of questions when the user posts a simple question. If this were a store purchase in person, I’d definitely want to know enough to reduce the risk of a return when the customer realizes they bought the wrong item. I’m pretty confident that the OP wouldn’t commit $2000 on a one word answer to their question. The other interesting thing is them comparing (in a sense) the HD700 and LCDx. This person knows something, but they didn’t say up front what that is. It should be interesting what their experience is when they report back. I recall once a long time ago advising someone who had just $1500 to spend whether they should go ahead and buy a Senn HD800 when they didn’t have enough extra for a good amp. I got roundly criticized for my answer. I said ‘yes’ for this reason: If you want the $1500 headphone then you can buy it knowing that a small amp around $100 will provide enough power to get you by OK until you can get something better. And I knew from having the HD800 that with some small amps I could have a good listening experience, and hear more detail than I would with a $750 headphone and $750 amp. But all of that advice hinges on the user understanding what they want and what the limits are, and knowing whether they would want to possibly be stuck with a $750 headphone for years because they split their entire budget in half for the amp and headphone. I have nothing against a user splitting their budget that way if they know that’s what they want, but OTOH I hate to see a customer be discouraged from buying up on one item and down on the other if they also understand what they’re doing.
Average_geek
Hi Lieven,
thanks for the amazon.fr tip. I just saw the HD700 at 437 euros and went for it. I was actually interested in trying the HD600/650, but the price for the HD700 seemed too appealing. Anyways, could you recommend a starting setup DAC/AMP-wise under $300? My plan is to play files on my Mac (optical or USB). I am new to this, so even after reading (many )reviews, I still have not much of a clue as to what would suit me best. I mostly listen to Jazz, Classical, Country, and sometimes light rock/pop. Cheers.
L.
Good choice! Amp wise the Bottlehead crack is good with the HD700 ($279). I would save up for a DAC after that
http://bottlehead.com/?product=crack-otl-headphone-amplifier-kit
Average_geek
Thanks for that. I see a lot of love for the Bottlehead so I am seriously considering getting one. From your comments I also got the feeling that the HD700 is pickier than the HD650 in terms of amplification. If so, does this mean I should also consider getting other tubes for the Bottlehead?
L.
Mike and me both like the stock tubes but getting other tubes is part of the fun. For the moment I’m using a 5998 and 12AU7 RCA Clear top. you don’t need to get other tubes but you could adjust the sound and make it sound better (to your taste)
Average_geek
Great, that was my only real concern. I will probably have a bunch more questions later on, but I really appreciate the advice. BTW, awesome site! Great content and beautiful photos. Plus, both on a desktop browser and on my mobile it looks beautiful; simple and refined.
L.
Thanks man. Appreciate it
Harley Chen
Hey guys,
What is a good SS amp for the HD700? I am specifically looking for SS btw 🙂
Dave Ulrich
Beyerdynamic A200p or something from the Violectric lineup, perhaps.
Harley Chen
Thanks! I am actually looking at A20, which currently has a huge discount on eBay.
I am basically replacing my Crack as it is not convenient for my usage. Lieven actually gave me a few portable options, but I am looking more at a DESKTOP Amp.
So I feel like it’s more appropriate to come to this thread and ask for opinion.
Thanks for your input though! 🙂
L.
Do not get the a200p!! Buy a burson or even better the violectric v100 or v200. Especially the last one
Dave Ulrich
Oops, didn’t proof myself. I had meant A20.
L.
better 🙂
Wes Powell
Hey Mike! Is the offer of trading an HD700 with your HD800 still up for grabs? I have a new pair of HD700’s, and I’d love to trade!
Wes
Igor Sheykin
Hi, Thanks for a good review!
Here I have a question similar to one from 2 years ago in this thread.
How could you compare HD700 with Beyerdynamic T90.
As of amazon.de they have similar price: 511 and 540 euros respectively.
L.
T90s mids are a bit more in the back with forward vocals. the HD700s mids are fuller. Both very good headphones. I kept the T90 in the end
Marc
If it isn’t a too much of a bother, how is the L2 compared to the T90. I demoed an HD700 a few weeks ago and there was this treble peak that killed it for me. Maybe the demo pair wasn’t burned in or something but the T90, HE-560, and the X2 intrigue me. Anyways, T90 and L2?
dalethorn
If you don’t like the treble peak of the HD700, you’ll hate the treble peaks of the T90. And those are Tesla drivers, so burn-in has negligible effect.
L.
Dale is right, Treble on the T90 is Top Beyer Treble.
dalethorn
In all fairness to us T90 users, it’s pretty tight and clean.
Dave Ulrich
and with a nice tube amp, it is more sparkly than peaky.
Zombie_X
Old comment to reply to, but I hate the treble on the T90. It sounds tizzy and harsh, even in comparison to my T1 and DT990. I much prefer the treble of the T1 and DT990 to the T90.
dalethorn
Here’s the EQ curves I did for the T1 and T90, to get them to a smoothness and balance just shy of the Senn HD800. It’s hard for me to say which is brighter or harsher, but there are a lot of interesting views around the Web.
http://dalethorn.com/Photos/Audioforge/Beyer_T1.jpg
http://dalethorn.com/Photos/Audioforge/Beyer_T90.jpg
Headfonia_L.
Zombi X is still alive! Havent crossed paths with you on headfi for a very long time.
I like the DT990 treble and the T90s, T1 is not my headphone though
Marc
Thanks Dale, Lieven, and Dave!!!
L.
No problem 🙂
Rogier Schreurs
I think Tesla drivers need just as much burn-in as my other headphones. I actually suspect my DT990 of changing even after 2 years. It appears as if the bass turned down since about half a year ago.
dalethorn
The earpads’ wear are the major change in sound. Are you sure the 990 is Tesla?
Headfonia_L.
It is not a Tesla (DT990)
Rogier Schreurs
Yep, it’s the edition 250Ω. The pads have something to do with it, sure, but the sound straight out of the drivers definitely changed in the beginning. When I compared my brand new one to the demo model in the shop the pads were virtually the same, yet the sound from the store model was more refined. Also my left driver was replaced by Beyerdynamic two years ago. When it was new you could clearly hear the sound change over time on that side as opposed to the right side, which remained the same. Burn in didn’t work miracles, but it did clean up the low and top end frequencies > more control, detail, clarity and less sibilance and distortion.
dalethorn
Two thoughts – if the pads are velour or anything that absorbs sweat (i.e. anything besides pleather), they can look and feel the same yet sound different. The other thing is, were you able to confirm that after the driver replacement, the two drivers matched exactly, before and after burn-in?
Rogier Schreurs
Wow, Lieven’s right: it hasn’t got a Tesla.. My mistake, apologies! Well, I do recognize the difference between my pads now and when brand new. The shop’s pair in question were still fresh, completely different from the state of my old pads now. And yes I actually noticed change between my left and right cup; the difference between left and right bugged me so much I actually left it burning in for a period. All the while listening to it from time to time to see how things were changing. Don’t know how well the two drivers match each other now, but I listen to this headphone the most and it doesn’t seem to be unbalanced. Btw, that second ‘burn-in’ period seemed shorter than the first one. I could just as well be wrong about that, though..
dalethorn
Sounds like good news overall. I think I have 5 Beyers in the house now – 4 Teslas and one (the COP) not. But the sound quality even with the inexpensive COP is excellent.
Igor Sheykin
My HD700 just arrived. The mids are definitely fuller. They have more speed, 3d imaging, and instruments separation.
Now I listen on a Schiit Modi/Magni. What do you think about Bottlehead Crack in comparison to Magni? Would it bring sound on the new level?
L.
YES. no doubt about that. T90 loves tubes and it loves the Crack. May I suggest a 12AU7 RCA Clear top and an RCA 6AS7G. or if you want to spend more a Bendix 6080WB or GEC 6AS7G
Igor Sheykin
I meant for HD700, not T90. =)
L.
Have you read the above review?
Without pre-amps or anything the best amplifier for the HD700 was, and here we go again, the Bottlehead Crack.
Was this amp specially made for Sennheiser or what? The Crack works
best for 150Ohm and surprisingly enough the HD700 is exactly rated that.
Great sound stage, clarity and the best bass (tiny bit looser)
Igor Sheykin
Yes I read the review of HD700 and HD800 and about Crack with HD600-650. That is why I came with Bottlehead Crack in mind.
The main question was about upgrade from Schiit Magni to Bottlehad Crack. Is is a big step? If Magni is a bad amp, not enough for HD700?
It is the first time i hear about pre-amp, usually Source-DAC-Amp-Phones…
And about different tubes in Crack: is any of your suggestion in the Kit? Or they should be bought separately?
L.
You dont need a pre amp, just a DAC. Go for the crack with good tubes. Yes it is better than schiit to me
Igor Sheykin
Thank you a lot for answering all my question, even stupid ones.
Already ordered Crack few minutes ago.
It you would compare the level of Crack amp and Schiit series, which one is comparable?
And few words about T90 in my experience. I ordered them twice from amazon. First pair had airy sound and large stage, but all the sound was outside on the edges. The second pair has much less air and stage, but sound was in the middle. May be that is why I am happy that my HD700 does not have any of those problems.
Da_Shnutz
Hey Igor,
Am about to do the exact same thing… Looking into acquiring the bottle head crack and upgrade from schiit to amp hd700….
Appreciate if you can shed some light on your listening experience due to change from schiit magni/ modi…. That doesn’t mean I have full confidence in L’ s feedback :).. With the exception of the schiit items , every purchase I have done was based on L’s amazing reviews
Thanks !
Igor Sheykin
Hi. 10 days ago I ordered Crack, but they ship it once in a month, i.e. delivery is 4 weeks +/- 2 weeks. I would be lucky to get it in 3 weeks.
For the time being, I return HD700 (< 2 weeks of use).
Da_Shnutz
Oh!,… Erm.. if you don’t my asking.. Any reason for returning the hd700..
Igor Sheykin
The reason for returning: I could not say if HD700 would be great with Crack. For now I can get return HP without any money loss.
First I would get Crack, compile it, then order another HD700 to look for difference.
On the current system Schitt M+M, except for the soundstage and comfort, my pair of ZMF mod of Fostex t50rp sounds the best.
Da_Shnutz
Ah ok….. And good to know that the MnM schiit works well with the t50s !, was thinking of the alpha dogs …
Thanks !!
Sergio Mejia
I will buy these headphones HD700, do you mean I recommend amp below $ 500? listen to rock of all kinds.
Thanks for your comments
dalethorn
What is the source, and how will the amp work – from USB on computer?
Sergio Mejia
dalethorn, the amp would be connected to my laptop. Do I have to buy an amp + dac or amp such as Crack can be connected directly to my laptop?
L.
it can, but it would be best to use an external dac. even something simple like the Resonessence Herus in example, or the Fiio E10K if you’re on a budget
Sergio Mejia
ok, then ideally buy a DAC AMP to drive the music from the laptop through this device and then from the DAC AMP from the Crack would connect, is that correct?
Patrick
if it is backstrap, then yes should go – laptop usb> fiio dac> bottlehead crack> hd700 right?
L.
Laptop – Dac – Amp. Dont go AMP/DAC to AMP
Sergio Mejia
I understand: laptop usb> fiio dac> Bottlehead crack> hd700. ok, is very clear, but what he means: “Dont go AMP / DAC to AMP”?
It’s probably silly but I’m not clear.
L.
Deja vue. Bottlehead Crack.
Sergio Mejia
thank you
Patrick Michael Graf Murray
Hey I wanted to ask if the ear cups and pads were as nice and or comfortable as the HD800 with this model? I was just wondering because the hd800 looks like it has very large and comfortable earpads. Also how does this stack up against the HE-560?
Headfonia_L.
It’s a bit smaller than the HD800 and the quality might be a little under it but like I said in the review it has incredibly good comfort.
The HE560 is an ortho and has the ortho sound. It’s faster and tighter but the Senn is more musical to me. Tough choice, both great headphones
Patrick Michael Graf Murray
Fair enough, I had a feeling that would be the case, Well I am going to eventually get the HE560, but was hoping to try out both just to experience the differences and similarities. Alas I need more friends who are into audio gear. lol
D Stone
Hey there, not sure if you are still tracking comments here, but I had a question. I only have the Aune T1 as my amp/dac and I took the plunge on the HD700… do you think that would be a good pairing or should I try something like the Schiit stack instead? I tend to prefer darker amps paired with headphones with treble peaks or brightness.
Headfonia_L.
Never tried it with the Aune T1 actually. I wouldn’t go to Schiit for your Senns. something like the Picollo or Duet might be interesting, or the JDSLabs C5 or …
solid
what aftermarket cable you would recommend for hd 700?? budget around $400..
Vaibhav Pisal
hi headfonia,
i just bought these cans.
am finding them too high resolution out of solid state. can’t really listen for more than an hour. so I have decided to jump on tube bandwagon.
will a hybrid give me desired result or i should go only full tubes for desired result? i have auditioned some hybrids but not enough to know for sure.
also give some recommendations in under $400 range. (except crack. wish i could do diy)
for starters i have chosen a couple :
lafigaro 336c
little dot mk 3
any others would be welcome.
thanks
Headfonia_L.
I’m not a fan of Hybrid amps. And budget tube amps, besides the Crack are hardly ever any good. Can’t you find someone to make you one?
Vaibhav Pisal
i can make it. but i doubt its reliability in long term.
when i buy such gear i expect it to last 4-5 years. really don’t see it lasting that long if I make it.
Rogier Schreurs
I’ve got a hybrid tube amp feeding these headphones, right now (Musical Fidelity V8P) and they pair up very well. Quick, but smooth and insane technicalities.
Rogier Schreurs
Agree with everything you’ve said about these cans, Lieven, except for the voices. Though they sound very nice and soothing, they are slightly colored (dare I say veiled?). Also, I would like to add that I’ve finally found a headphone that can be played on very low volume and still give so much depth, smoothness and detail.
Headfonia_L.
Great headphone but atm I prefer the HD800 over it
Maximus
Hello, I am looking for new cans and I`m stuck between these (HD700) and the HE 560. I listen to classical music, rock, and jazz. Which is better in my case?
Headfonia_L.
It depends on the sound signature you like, the source you use and your amplification
Maximus
Well, I am going to use the O2 amp and the pa2v2 amp. As the source, I will use my sony NWZ-A17 portable music player with 24bit/192khz. As the sound signature I don`t really mind.
Headfonia_L.
In that case the HE-560, but as I don’t like the O2… 😉
Maximus
Why not?
Maximus
I don`t own them yet, you could change my opinon 🙂
Headfonia_L.
It’s missing a soul 😉
Headfonia_L.
Wait, there’s still someone who hasn’t read our O2 and isn’t aware of everything that happened? 😀
http://www.headfonia.com/nwavguys-objective-2-by-jdslabs-and-epiphany-acoustics/
Tomanyhobbies
So what is the prevailing thought now that these can be purchased for $429? And especially against the competition at that price? I just ordered a pair. Will see.
dale thorn
Sennheiser’s next-best dynamic that was $1000 and now $429 ? That’s money well spent.
Wilson
Hi, Is the offer still up for trade? My HD700 for HD800?
Thanks
Lieven
No man, Mike left Headfonia in 2014. This offer was done in 2012…