
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X vs Sennheiser HD 650: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Sennheiser HD 650 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 85. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Score breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Specifications
| Spec | Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X | Sennheiser HD 650 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $277 | $380 |
| HearWiki score | 76 / 100 · Great | 85 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2013 | - |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | Dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver size | 53 mm | 42 mm |
| Drivers per side | 1 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz-30kHz | 10Hz-41kHz |
| Impedance | 38 Ω | 300 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 100 dB/mW | 99.8 dB/mW |
| Sensitivity (dB/Vrms) | - | 103 |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| Controls | - | buttons |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 265 g | 260 g |
| Foldable | - | No |
| Detachable cable | No | Yes |
| USB-C | No | No |
| Balanced connection | - | Yes |
What reviewers said
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X
The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is a lightweight, open-back over-ear headphone designed for critical listening, offering a wide, spacious soundstage and clear, detailed audio. While it excels in comfort and easy drivability thanks to its low 38-ohm impedance, its weak bass response and significant sound leakage make it best suited for quiet home environments rather than portable or casual use. The non-detachable 3-meter cable with a 1/4-inch plug further reinforces its stationary, audiophile-oriented design.
- Pro:Wide and immersive soundstage
- Pro:Very lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
- Pro:Clear, detailed mids and highs
- Con:Bass lacks punch and control
- Con:Significant sound leakage and poor isolation
- Con:Bulky fit, not ideal for on-the-go use
Sennheiser HD 650
The Sennheiser HD 650 is a wired, open-back dynamic headphone built for serious home listening. It delivers a natural, detailed sound with a comfortable fit, though its sub-bass rolloff and bulky design limit it to stationary use rather than portable or active scenarios. Its replaceable cable and balanced connection option add to its appeal for audiophiles.
- Pro:Excellent clarity and natural tonal balance
- Pro:Very comfortable for long listening sessions
- Pro:Detachable cable and balanced output support
- Con:Noticeable sub-bass rolloff
- Con:Not portable or suitable for active use
- Con:High impedance requires a dedicated amplifier
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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