Sennheiser HD 599 SE Open-Back Headphones, Premium Design, Natural Balanced Audio, Comfortable Fit, Wired Headphones for Music, Gaming, School, Work, Black
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AI Verdict
A 9.2-ounce open-back headphone with plush velour ear pads and dual detachable cables, ideal for home listening and gaming.
These 9.2-ounce headphones with plush velour ear pads and a gentle clamping force are designed for extended wear without discomfort. The open-back nature also prevents ear sweat during long sessions.
If you need noise isolation for travel or shared spaces, look for closed-back headphones with active noise cancellation.
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Pros
- Lightweight 9.2-ounce design with plush velour ear pads allows for extended listening without fatigue.
- Open-back design creates a wide and spacious soundstage, enhancing immersion for music and gaming.
- Includes both a 3-meter 6.3mm cable and a 1.2-meter 3.5mm cable for flexible connectivity.
- Easy to drive with a 50-ohm impedance, working well with phones, tablets, and most desktop motherboards without a dedicated amplifier.
- Sound profile is balanced with clear mids and controlled bass, suitable for various genres.
Cons
- Open-back design means significant sound leakage, making them unsuitable for public or shared environments.
- No noise control or isolation, so external sounds are clearly audible.
- Some users report a mid-bass boost that can lead to a "messy bottom" or "boxy sound" for certain instruments.
- Proprietary connection for the cables, limiting third-party cable options.
- Treble can sometimes sound "veiled" or have a "sharp part" in the lower treble.
Dimension Scores
Offers a natural, balanced audio profile with a wide soundstage, though some users note mid-bass bloat or veiled upper mids.
As open-back headphones, they provide no noise isolation and allow all external sounds to be heard.
The 9.2-ounce lightweight design, plush velour ear pads, and gentle clamping force make them exceptionally comfortable for long listening sessions.
These are wired headphones and do not have a battery.
Best For
- Home music listening in quiet environments.
- PC and console gaming where directional audio is important.
- Long work or study sessions requiring comfort and situational awareness.
- Audiophiles seeking a wide soundstage on a budget.
Not Recommended For
- Commuting or use in noisy public spaces due to lack of noise isolation.
- Environments where sound leakage would disturb others.
- Users prioritizing deep, impactful sub-bass for electronic music.
Watch Out For
- Sound leaks significantly, meaning people nearby can hear what you're listening to, and you'll hear everything around you.
- The proprietary cable connection means finding replacement or aftermarket cables can be more challenging than standard 3.5mm.
- Some users find the mid-bass to be "bloated" or "messy," affecting clarity in the lower frequencies.
- The sound signature, while balanced, might be "underwhelming" for those accustomed to higher-end audiophile headphones.
Full Specifications
| UPC | 615104339323 |
| ASIN | B07RFNZYJZ |
| Brand | Sennheiser |
| Color | Black |
| Style | HD 599 SE |
| Units | 1.0 Count |
| Material | Plastic |
| Impedance | 50 Ohms |
| Generation | 2nd Generation |
| Model Name | HD 599 Special Edition |
| Form Factor | Over Ear |
| Item Weight | 9.2 ounces |
| Control Type | Bluetooth |
| Manufacturer | Sennheiser |
| Cable Feature | Detachable |
| Ear Placement | Over Ear |
| Noise Control | None |
| Series Number | 500 |
| Control Method | Remote |
| Earpiece Shape | Rounded/Oval |
| Headphones Jack | 6.35 mm Jack |
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Special Feature | Detachable Cable, Lightweight, Microphone Included |
| Audio Driver Type | Dynamic Driver |
| Item model number | HD 599 SE |
| Compatible Devices | Tablets |
| Hardware Interface | 3.5mm Audio |
| Product Dimensions | 7.2 x 6.1 x 3.2 inches |
| Included Components | 3M Detachable Cable, 1.2M Detachable Cable |
| Customer Package Type | Standard Packaging |
| Input Device Interface | Audio jack |
| Water Resistance Level | Not Water Resistant |
| Age Range (Description) | Adult |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Specific Uses For Product | Music |
| Supports Bluetooth Technology | No |
| Wireless Communication Technology | Wired |
| Global Trade Identification Number | 00615104339323 |
What Buyers Say
Many users migrating from wireless headphones report a significant improvement in sound clarity and soundstage with the HD 599 SE, often describing it as a "gateway" to higher-fidelity audio. The comfort is frequently highlighted, with some forgetting they are wearing them after hours. However, the open-back design's inherent sound leakage and lack of isolation are consistent points of concern for use outside of quiet, private spaces.
“Dude, these are SO comfy, I literally forget I have them on for hours, but my wife keeps yelling at me because she can hear my podcasts across the room.”
Common Praise
- Exceptional comfort for all-day wear due to lightweight design and velour pads.
- Wide and immersive soundstage, making music and games feel more spacious.
- Clear and detailed mid-range, particularly good for vocals and acoustic instruments.
- Balanced sound profile that is not fatiguing during long listening sessions.
- Easy to drive without needing a dedicated amplifier.
Common Complaints
- Significant sound leakage, audible to others nearby.
- Zero noise isolation; all ambient sounds are heard.
- Some perceive a "muffled" or "messy" mid-bass, especially for certain music genres.
- Proprietary cable connection is less convenient than standard options.
- Treble can sometimes be "veiled" or "sharp" in specific ranges.
Ownership Tips
- The velour ear pads, while comfortable, can attract lint and dust over time.
- The clamping force is gentle enough for smaller heads but still secure.
- The included 3-meter cable is genuinely useful for desktop setups or AV receivers.
- Earpads and headbands are replaceable, extending the headphone's lifespan.
- Sound quality can improve slightly with higher-quality audio sources (e.g., FLAC vs. MP3).
Frequently Asked Questions
Do these headphones require an amplifier?
No, with a 50-ohm impedance, they are easy to drive and work well directly from phones, tablets, and most desktop motherboards.
Are these headphones suitable for gaming?
Yes, the open-back design provides a wide soundstage and true directional audio, which is beneficial for FPS games and immersive gaming experiences.
What is the difference between the HD 599 and HD 599 SE?
The HD 599 SE is an Amazon-exclusive version, typically in black and silver, while the regular HD 599 is often ivory/brown; they perform identically.
Can I use these in an office or public transport?
No, due to their open-back design, sound leaks significantly, and they offer no noise isolation, making them unsuitable for noisy or shared environments.
What kind of cables are included?
They come with two detachable cables: a 3-meter cable with a 6.3mm jack and a shorter 1.2-meter cable with a 3.5mm jack.
Buying Guide
When looking at open-back headphones like these, you're trading noise isolation for a more natural, spacious sound. This means they're not for commuting or shared offices. You'll get a sound that feels like it's coming from around you, not just inside your head, which is awesome for immersion, but everyone else will hear it too.
Open-Back Design
Unlike closed headphones that seal sound in, open-back headphones have perforated earcups. This allows air and sound to pass through, creating a wider, more natural soundstage, like listening to speakers in a room.
Impedance (50 ohms)
This number tells you how much electrical resistance the headphones have. At 50 ohms, these are relatively easy to drive, meaning your phone or computer can power them sufficiently without needing a separate amplifier.
Weight (9.2 ounces)
This is how much the headphones weigh. Lighter headphones, like these, contribute significantly to comfort during long listening sessions, reducing pressure on your head and neck.
Detachable Cables
Having detachable cables means if a cable breaks, you can replace just the cable, not the entire headphone. The inclusion of two lengths (1.2m and 3m) and different jack sizes (3.5mm and 6.3mm) offers flexibility for various devices.
Alternatives
If you need to block out external noise or prevent sound leakage, look for closed-back headphones with active noise cancellation. If you want a more neutral or analytical sound profile, research headphones known for flat frequency responses.
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