New Headphones in Focus: Sennheiser HD 620S Combines Comfort with High-Fidelity Sound

The Sennheiser HD 620S headphones are currently priced at Rs. 32,990 and were introduced to the Indian market on August 12. They are touted for delivering immersive, high-fidelity audio in a closed-back design. Featuring custom-tuned 42mm dynamic drivers with a 38mm diaphragm and a 1.8m detachable cable equipped with a 3.5mm connector, these wired headphones also come with headband sliders reinforced with stainless steel and earcups cushioned with thick padding. They are claimed to create a spacious soundstage in their closed-back configuration. How well do these headphones perform in terms of functionality and sound quality? This will be explored further in our review.

Sennheiser HD 620S Design: Comfortable Fit

• Dimensions — ‎18 x 19.5 x 4.6cm
• Weight — 670g
• Color — Black

While the design of the Sennheiser HD 620S isn’t groundbreaking for a closed-back model, it includes thoughtful elements that enhance its ergonomic fit. Closed-back headphones are designed to contain sound within the earcups while blocking out a significant amount of external noise. Unlike open-back models, which provide a more natural tone due to reflections, closed-back designs offer better noise isolation, a point we will delve into later.

The headphones feature metal-reinforced headband sliders

The Sennheiser HD 620S’s design, particularly the earcup shape, draws inspiration from the Sennheiser HD 500 series of over-ear headphones. With headband sliders reinforced with stainless steel and adjustable earcups with generous padding, they provide a secure and comfortable fit. The cushions are made with artificial leather for both the earcups and headband. Although one might worry about overheating due to the padding, I did not experience any discomfort during my review period.

On the contrary, I was able to wear the Sennheiser HD 620S headphones for extended periods without feeling fatigued. The large earcups ensure that there isn’t excessive pressure on the ears. The oval shape of the earcups comfortably accommodates the ears, while the dip in the headband padding alleviates the pressure typically associated with over-ear designs.

The sliders and earcups of the Sennheiser HD 620S can be easily adjusted to suit each user’s preferences. If you are a glasses wearer, the fit might vary depending on the frame’s size and shape. Personally, I found it best to put on my glasses first before adjusting the headphones for a better fit.

The padding on each earcup is substantial, enhancing comfort

Sennheiser HD 620S Specifications: Clear Features

• Drivers — 42mm dynamic transducers with 38mm diaphragm
• Impedance — 150 Ohm
• Frequency response — 6Hz to 30,000Hz

The latest addition to Sennheiser’s prestigious HD 600 series incorporates advanced engineering with its custom-tuned 42mm dynamic transducers and precisely manufactured 38mm diaphragm. Designed for an extensive and detailed frequency response ranging from 6Hz to 30,000Hz, these over-ear headphones aim to deliver a rich, immersive listening experience.

With a sound pressure level of 110dB and an impedance of 150 ohms, they ensure robust and clear audio output. The closed-back design helps isolate sound and minimize external disturbances, complemented by a 150-ohm aluminum voice coil that refines audio quality, making these headphones suitable for both professional and audiophile usage. This meticulously curated combination of components seeks to achieve outstanding sound fidelity and acoustic precision.

Sennheiser HD 620S Performance: Audio Quality

• Cable length — 1.8m
• Cable Type — 3.5mm plug; includes 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter

Shifting focus to the performance of the Sennheiser HD 620S, the overall sound quality is commendable, yet the bass leans more toward warmth rather than emphasizing note weight or impact. It provides a punchier bass experience compared to open-back headphones, but may not satisfy those seeking heavy bass output.

The headband’s central dip is designed to lessen the pressure on the head

The Sennheiser HD 620S excels in delivering a rich and detailed midrange performance, making them an appealing choice for audiophiles who prioritize clarity and depth in this critical frequency area. The headphones provide a balanced and accurate midrange that brings both vocals and instrumentation to life with stunning clarity.

The custom-tuned dynamic transducers and diaphragm of the HD 620S collaborate to accurately reproduce midrange frequencies, ensuring that vocals are crisp and instruments exhibit realistic tonality. This clarity enhances the immersion of the listening experience by effectively showcasing even the subtle nuances and textures present in the music. Whether listening to a warm vocal performance or the intricate arrangements of a string quartet, the HD 620S remains compelling and engaging. This clarity can be observed in tracks like Wilderness by Explosions in the Sky, Helplessly Hoping by Crosby, Stills, Nash & Young, and I Want You (She’s So Heavy) by The Beatles.

Conversely, the treble performance of the Sennheiser HD 620S falls short. Often, the higher frequencies sound somewhat muted and lack definition. In a track such as You’ve Got To Have Freedom by Pharoah Sanders, laden with piano and flugelhorn, the deficit in clarity at higher pitches becomes readily apparent.

The headphones do not feature microphone support

On the noise isolation front, the closed-back configuration does a decent job of minimizing distractions when compared to open-back alternatives. However, the isolation isn’t overwhelming. In a quiet environment, minor disturbances might be filtered out, but don’t expect to remain distraction-free if there’s a television on or someone nearby is talking.

Sennheiser HD 620S: Conclusion

The Sennheiser HD 620S presents a solid option for audiophiles, particularly those who plan to use them for professional tasks, like editing. However, at Rs 32,990, the price may be steep for casual listeners wanting wired headphones with passive noise isolation. While these headphones offer better noise cancellation than open-back models, the sound experience is not as expansive due to the inherent design limitations. It’s worthwhile to note that these headphones lack microphone support, which means an external microphone will be necessary for calls and similar needs.

Though there aren’t many alternatives in this exact niche, you might also consider the Sony WH-1000XM5 (Review), which are wireless headphones featuring active noise cancellation (ANC) capabilities and touch controls, priced at Rs. 34,990 in India.