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Sennheiser HD 205: Review

Posted to Headphones 2009-09-19

The Sennheiser HD 205 Studio Monitor DJ headphones are a set of closed-back full-size headphones with a rotatable cup that swivels away from one ear. Designed for DJs and sound mixing use, the swivel earcup comes in handy for talking to someone without taking the headphones off. They feature a frequency response of 14-20,000Hz and a maximum SPL (Sound Pressure Level) of 112db at 1KHz, 1Vrms.

THD (Total Harmonic Distortion) is less than 0.5% at 1KHz, 100dB and they have an impedance of 32 ohms. The headphones come with a 3m long cable and a 3.5mm stereo jack with a 6.3mm adapter. The drivers produce very accurate sound at all sound levels, and the closed back design does a good job of blocking ambient noise. The closed-back design also allows you to listen at high volume levels without bothering those around you.

Rating:

3.6 out of 5

Value

The HD 205 stereo headphones represent an excellent value for the street price. You won't find sound this good from the competition at this price. These are professional headphones with professional features at an amateur price. The drivers produce accurate sound throughout their range, and you can drive them at relatively high volume levels without distortion. The rotatable right earcup is a handy feature to have, and allows you to hold a conversation or talk on the phone while still listening through the other ear.

Performance

The HD 205 stereo headphones do well in the performance category, especially when you consider the price. The specs are above average in this price range, especially the low distortion and high SPL (Sound Pressure Level). The 32-ohm impedance means that it takes little power to drive these headphones, so they're easy on the batteries in portable devices. And as mentioned previously, the closed back design does a good job of blocking ambient noise for a pleasant listening experience even in noisy environments.

Summary

If you're looking for an excellent set of full-sized, closed back stereo headphones, you would be hard pressed to beat the HD 205 for price versus performance. They're built with Sennheiser quality and carry Sennheiser's usual 2-year warranty. The rotatable right earcup is a very useful feature, and the enclosures are well designed and comfortable. The headphones are lightweight (206g) for a full-size set as well. All in all an excellent offering from Sennheiser.

Pros

14-20,000HZ frequency response
Max SPL 112dB at 1KHz, 1Vrms
THD < 0.5% at 1KHz, 100dB
32 ohm impedance
Rotatable right earcup

Cons

There are no cons for this product