Sennheiser HD 550 Open-Back Over-Ear Headphones (SEN-700455) | New
SKU: SEN-700455-N
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Overview of Sennheiser HD 550 Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones (700455) | New
The Sennheiser HD 550 Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones (700455) are audiophile-grade wired headphones designed for critical music listening, gaming, movies and long work sessions at your desk. The HD 550, which is based on Sennheiser's in-house 150-ohm dynamic transducer that is made in Ireland, has a remarkably broad 6 Hz–39.5 kHz frequency response with less than 0.2% total harmonic distortion, revealing genuine transients, micro-detail, and a roomy soundstage. Perfect for lossless libraries, immersive gaming and hi-fi streaming, the open-back earcup design with acoustically transparent mesh and angled 38 mm drivers creates a 3D, room-like presentation that puts you in the center of the mix. These over-ear headphones are comfortable enough for hours of concentrated listening without becoming tired due to their lightweight 150-ohm chassis, cushioned headband, and soft synthetic velour ear pads. The Sennheiser HD 550 readily couples with headphone amplifiers, audio interfaces and home stereos thanks to its detachable 1.8 m cable that ends in 3.5 mm and the provided 1/4" converter, providing enthusiasts with a simple entry point into true audiophile open-back sound.
Key Features of Sennheiser HD 550 Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones
• Audiophile open-back design with metal mesh earcups for airy, spacious sound and natural instrument separation in an over-ear form factor.
• In-house 150-ohm dynamic transducer (38 mm) built in Ireland, tuned for open, natural sound with punchy bass, neutral mids and precise, airy treble.
• Extremely wide 6 Hz–39.5 kHz frequency response to reproduce deep sub-bass you feel and ultra-extended treble that preserves fine spatial cues.
• Low distortion performance with THD under 0.2% at 1 kHz / 90 dB SPL, maintaining clarity and control even at higher listening levels.
• Angled driver geometry and acoustic foam tuning for a wide, 3D soundstage that enhances positional audio, music imaging and cinematic immersion.
• Synthetic velour ear pads and soft-padded headband for a gently snug, breathable fit that stays comfortable during long gaming or listening sessions.
• Detachable 1.8 m (approx. 5.9–6 ft) unbalanced cable with 3.5 mm plug and included 1/4" adapter for flexible connection to amps, interfaces and stereos.
• Robust HD 500-series chassis with steel-reinforced sliders designed for everyday reliability.
• Over-ear, open-back wired configuration (no Bluetooth, no ANC) to prioritize pure, unprocessed sound quality for serious listeners.
Benefits of Sennheiser HD 550 Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones
🗹 Unlock hidden details in your music and games with an open-back Sennheiser HD 550 tuning that stays neutral and revealing instead of “V-shaped” or overly bass-heavy.
🗹 Experience a wide, realistic soundstage where instruments and in-game sounds occupy believable positions, improving immersion and spatial awareness for both entertainment and competitive play.
🗹 Enjoy long, comfortable sessions thanks to lightweight construction, breathable velour earpads and a relaxed clamping force that reduce heat build-up and pressure points.
🗹 Pair easily with desktop DAC/amps, hi-fi receivers, and audio interfaces—150 ohms makes the HD 550 scale beautifully with better gear while remaining accessible to many home setups.
🗹 Hear vocals, dialogue, and instruments as they were mixed, with a balanced midrange that keeps voices clear and avoids the “scooped” sound of bass-boosted consumer headphones.
🗹 Invest confidently in a durable, serviceable open-back headphone with replaceable pads and a detachable cable, backed by Sennheiser’s build quality.
🗹 Upgrade from closed-back or gaming headsets to a more refined listening experience that makes lossless streaming, vinyl, and high-resolution audio feel worth the investment.
Specifications
Specifications for Sennheiser HD 550 Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones (700455) | New
| Manufacturer | Sennheiser |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 700455 |
| Product Name | Sennheiser HD 550 Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones |
| Product Type | Wired Headset |
| Headphone Type | Open-back, dynamic, over-ear (circumaural) |
| Wearing Style | Headband, around-the-ear |
| Driver Type | Dynamic transducer (38 mm diameter, made in Ireland) |
| Driver Design | Angled drivers with laminate Duofoil (aluminum) diaphragm, vented magnet system |
| Frequency Response | 6 Hz – 39.5 kHz |
| Nominal Impedance | 150 Ω |
| Sound Pressure Level (SPL) | 106.7 dB (1 kHz / 1 Vrms) |
| Total Harmonic Distortion | < 0.2% (1 kHz / 90 dB SPL) |
| Ear Coupling | Around-the-ear (over-ear) |
| Ear Pad Material | Synthetic velour |
| Clamp Force | Low clamping force for comfort |
| Cable | Detachable 1.8 m (5.9 ft / 74") single-sided unbalanced cable, 3.5 mm plug |
| Connector (Headphone Side) | 2.5 mm? (balanced-ready on left earcup; confirm via manual) |
| Included Accessories | 3.5 mm to 6.35 mm (1/4") screw-on adapter, drawstring cloth bag |
| Weight (without cable) | 237 g (8.35 oz) |
| Weight (with cable) | Approx. 275 g (9.7 oz) |
| Ear Cup Dimensions (Outer) | Width: 3.535", Height: 4.49", Depth: 1.867" |
| Operating Principle | Open-back with acoustic mesh grilles |
| Connectivity | Wired only (no Bluetooth, no wireless) |
| Use Cases | Critical listening, gaming, movies, remote work |
Frequently Asked Questions
Sennheiser HD 550 Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ's)
What type of headphones are the Sennheiser HD 550?
They are open-back over-ear headphones designed for high-fidelity listening and accurate sound reproduction.
What is the advantage of open-back headphones?
Open-back headphones provide a wider soundstage and more natural audio reproduction, making music feel more spacious and realistic.
Are the HD 550 headphones wired or wireless?
They are wired headphones designed for high-quality audio playback.
Do these headphones require an amplifier?
They can work with standard audio devices, but a headphone amplifier can improve sound performance and clarity.
Are the HD 550 headphones good for music listening?
Yes, they are designed for detailed, balanced, and accurate music reproduction.
Can they be used for gaming?
Yes, the wide soundstage and accurate imaging make them suitable for immersive gaming audio.
Are they comfortable for long listening sessions?
Yes, the lightweight frame and soft ear cushions help support extended listening sessions.
Do they isolate external noise?
No, open-back headphones allow external sound in and some audio to leak out, which contributes to their natural soundstage.
Are they suitable for studio monitoring?
Yes, they can be used for critical listening and reference monitoring in audio production environments.
Do they include a detachable cable?
Yes, the headphones feature a detachable audio cable for convenience and easy replacement.
What devices are compatible with the HD 550?
They work with audio interfaces, headphone amplifiers, computers, hi-fi systems and compatible audio players.
Are they good for watching movies?
Yes, the wide and immersive soundstage makes them excellent for cinematic audio experiences.
Do they work with portable audio players?
Yes, they can be used with portable music players and devices with compatible headphone outputs.
Are they designed for audiophiles?
Yes, they are built for listeners seeking accurate, high-fidelity audio performance.
Can they be used for home audio setups?
Yes, they are ideal for desktop DACs, amplifiers, and home hi-fi listening systems.
Do they support high-resolution audio playback?
Yes, they can reproduce high-resolution audio when paired with compatible playback equipment.
Are the ear cushions replaceable?
Yes, the ear cushions can typically be replaced when needed, extending the lifespan of the headphones.
Are these headphones lightweight?
Yes, they are designed to be lightweight and comfortable for extended listening.
Are they suitable for professional audio work?
Yes, they can be used for audio monitoring, editing and detailed critical listening.
Who are the Sennheiser HD 550 headphones ideal for?
They are ideal for audiophiles, music enthusiasts, gamers and professionals seeking natural open-back sound performance.