
Focal Spirit Professional 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 | Focal Spirit Professional | Sennheiser HD 650 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $302 | $380 |
| HearWiki score | 82 / 100 · Great | 85 / 100 · Outstanding |
| Released | 2020 | - |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | Mylar/Titanium alloy dome with Mylar suspension | dynamic |
| Driver size | 40 mm | 42 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 5Hz-22kHz | 10Hz-41kHz |
| Impedance | 32 Ω | 300 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 102 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 | 280 g | 260 g |
| Foldable | - | No |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C | No | No |
| Balanced connection | - | Yes |
| Model code | Listen Professional | - |
What reviewers said
Focal Spirit Professional
The Focal Spirit Professional is a wired, over-ear studio headphone designed for critical monitoring and mixing tasks. It pairs a neutral, detailed sound signature with a lightweight, comfortable build, and its detachable cables—including a mobile-friendly option with a mic—enhance its versatility for both studio and portable use. With a 32-ohm impedance and high sensitivity, it is easy to drive from a wide range of devices without requiring a dedicated amplifier.
- Pro:Neutral and linear frequency response ideal for studio work
- Pro:Detachable cables with both long studio and short mobile options
- Pro:Lightweight at 280 g, comfortable for extended sessions
- Con:No active noise cancellation or wireless functionality
- Con:Limited soundstage compared to open-back alternatives
- Con:Mylar/Titanium driver may sound slightly analytical to some listeners
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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