Almost 24 years ago, Sennheiser introduced the first headphone of the 600 series. The Sennheiser HD 600. Even after two decades, they are still the favorite Open Back headphones of Audiophiles.
The next miracle in the 600 Series was HD 650. With the darker bass and smooth highs, they got the position in the list of best-performing headphones.
You can imagine how popular these two headphones are because even after so many years, people are asking for these two.so Sennheiser doesn't discontinue them.
In 2017 Sennheiser brought the next headphone of the 600 series. The Sennheiser HD 660S. They cost $500. You know that open-back headphones are generally costly as compared to closed-back headphones.
Audiophiles prefer these kinds of headphones. But can HD 660 S fulfill the expectations of audiophiles? Are they worth this price tag? Let's find out and review Sennheiser HD 660S.
Pros:
Cons:
Sound
Build
Comfort
Value
Bottom Line:
When you are looking for the Open Back Headphones it is quite clear that you care so much about audio quality. You want to get every single detail of the audio. Let's quickly summarize the points. The bass is good but due to aggressive roll, you don't get the desired sub-bass. Mids are excellent. So if you love the neutral sound it's fantastic. Highs are ok but not so energetic.
On paper, it has a wide frequency range but after some level, it lacks energy at the treble's end. The soundstage is good, the imaging is accurate. Instrument separation is perfect. But the most important point while making any purchase decision is, does the performance justify the price? and unfortunately, my answer is no it doesn't. HD660 S is good but not even near perfect. If makers will think about reducing the price it will be a good deal but at this price tag, I would not recommend it.
I reviewed another reference headphone below $400 and If you ask me which one is better I would say AKG K712 Pro. Sound quality is far better if you compare AKG K712 Pro with HD 660S. Though build quality of HD660S is superior than K712 Pro we need ultimate level of sound performance when we buy reference headphones.
How is the Design and Build Quality of HD660 S?
All Headphones in the 600 Series look almost the same. HD660 S is based on the same build and design structure. You will not find too much difference between HD 700, HD650, and HD 660 S. These Headphones are Sturdy, Solid, and look durable. Except for a couple of parts like the headband and outer grill the entire body is made up of plastic.
This is the reason HD 660 S is lightweight and comfortable to wear for many hours. Soft foam inside the ear cups with the cover of Valour material makes it comfortable to wear. Though these are light in weight they are very durable. I purchased an HD 650 a few years back and they still look brand new. I don't find a single scratch though I use things recklessly.
HD660 S looks premium with having the logo of Sennheiser on its outer grill. Also has the logo on the headband. Padding on the top of the headband is not too thick but it's comfortable enough to use. Though I didn't feel any discomfort, many people complained about the clamping pressure of the headband. Though Most of the part is constructed with Plastic it looks Premium. I would give 8 out of 10 for the comfort, Design, and Fit of HD660 S.
How is the Sound Performance of HD660 S?
If you truly want to check the audio performance of HD660 S I recommend you use Amplifier. Let's start with the positives. The details are good. Especially when you have an amplifier you get more crisp and clear detail. Imaging is quite accurate.
HD660 S has the 38-mm dynamic driver which is the same kind of driver that is used in HD 700. With a frequency response of 10 - 41000 Hz and impedance of 300 Ξ©, it has good bass compared to its predecessor. I said it's good but not great. Bass Roll-Off is so aggressive that sometimes you miss Sub-Bass. What I liked the most in HD660 S is a balanced and neutral sound and it is possible just because of the great mids. This pair of Sennheiser gives awesome mids. Highs are good but I was expecting more punch and energy.
I feel it gives an Excellent soundstage. Some people said Soundstage is all in mind but that's not the case. You Can't get a great musical experience if your device doesn't have a great soundstage.
The HD 660 S gives clear instrument separation that takes your listening experience to the next level. but lack of energy in highs and not so good extension in lows are drawbacks that made my thumbs down and especially for such a price tag I can't ignore these cons.
sennheiser hd 660 s gaming headset
Whatβs in the box?
- HD 660S Headphones
- ΒΌ-inch stereo connector
- 4.4mm balanced connector
- adapter ΒΌβ to 3.5mm
Who should get HD660 S ?
Sennheiser HD660 S is for those who loves neutral sound and accurate imaging