Sennheiser HD 650 vs HIFIMAN HE400i

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It is interesting to test two headphones of Chinese and German production HIFIMAN HE400i vs Sennheiser HD650. Both models are open back, over ear, and wired design.

Features

HIFIMAN HE400i will reproduce a louder sound connected to a mobile device with its impedance of 35 Ohm vs 300 Ohm of Sennheiser HD650 that will require a mobile amp to deliver the sound in its full strength. The frequency response is quite enough in both the models, though HIFIMAN has a more narrow range of 20Hz-35KHz vs 10Hz-41KHz of Sennheiser. The sensitivity is decent, 93 vs 103 dB.

Sound

The sound coming from HIFIMAN HE400i is excellent: it is clear, shiny, and detailed. It is pretty well for neutral listening. There are no pumping bass, but quite enough for a balance with mids and highs. The vocals and instruments sound very bright and seem to me even sharp with some tracks. I suppose it would please most users.

Sennheiser HD650 has clear trebles and mids that are in the front of the stage, not muddy or fatiguing. The bass is not strong, but balanced. They are very neutral for listening. The soundstage is there, but I would call it more intimate than broad.

Comfort and design

Metallic finish on ear cups and leather details made HIFIMAN HE400i look premium. Sennheiser HD650 look quality with their glossy finish and suede-like paddings. Both have adjustable headbands, large comfortable ear cups, but still I find both a bit tight for long wearing. However, they are very light with 370 and 260 g. Both have unfoldable cups but HIFIMAN’s may lay flat. Still they are too bulky to carry with and have no case or bag to transport them safely.

Sennheiser HD 650 pros and cons

HIFIMAN HE400i pros and cons