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Audio-Technica Adx3000 vs Sennheiser HD 800: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Sennheiser HD 800 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Sennheiser HD 800 - Outstanding overall at around $1800.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

Audio-Technica Adx3000
Sound8.5
Value7.0
Sennheiser HD 800
Sound9.5
Noise cancelling0.0
Value6.5

Specifications

Specification comparison of Audio-Technica Adx3000 vs Sennheiser HD 800
SpecAudio-Technica Adx3000Sennheiser HD 800
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$1,100$1,800
HearWiki score78 / 100 · Great88 / 100 · Outstanding
Released20242009
Audio
Driverdynamicdynamic
Driver size58 mm56 mm
Drivers per side12
Frequency response5Hz-45kHz14Hz-44.1kHz
Impedance50 Ω300 Ω
Sensitivity98 dB/mW102 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)-102
Wireless
Bluetoothno-
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Battery
Wireless chargingNo-
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controlsbuttons-
Design
Weight257 g330 g
Water resistancenone-
FoldableNo-
Detachable cableYesYes
USB-CNoNo
Balanced connectionYesYes

What reviewers said

Audio-Technica Adx3000

The Audio-Technica ADX3000 is a wired, open-back over-ear headphone focused purely on accurate sound reproduction, with a large 58mm dynamic driver and a balanced connection option. It delivers technically controlled tuning suitable for critical listening, but lacks wireless features, ANC, and water resistance, making it a niche choice for audiophiles rather than everyday users.

  • Pro:Accurate and controlled sound reproduction
  • Pro:Large 58mm dynamic driver for detailed output
  • Pro:Detachable cable with balanced support
  • Con:No wireless or Bluetooth connectivity
  • Con:No active noise cancellation
  • Con:Not foldable, limiting portability

Sennheiser HD 800

The Sennheiser HD 800 is a premium open-back headphone designed for audiophiles who prioritize an expansive, speaker-like soundstage and exceptional detail retrieval. Its large dynamic drivers and angled transducer placement deliver a wide, airy presentation with precise imaging, though it demands a powerful amplifier to perform at its best. While the price tag is steep, the combination of engineering precision, comfort, and clarity makes it a standout choice for serious listening at home.

  • Pro:Exceptional soundstage width and spatial imaging
  • Pro:Highly detailed and resolving treble with controlled bass
  • Pro:Very comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Con:Requires a high-power amplifier; not suitable for portable use
  • Con:Fully open design offers no noise isolation
  • Con:Expensive retail price

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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