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Grado Sr125x 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.

Our pick: Sennheiser HD 650 - Outstanding overall at around $380.

Score breakdown

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

Grado Sr125x
Sound8.0
Value7.0
Sennheiser HD 650
Sound9.0
Value7.5

Specifications

Specification comparison of Grado Sr125x vs Sennheiser HD 650
SpecGrado Sr125xSennheiser HD 650
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$249$380
HearWiki score72 / 100 · Good85 / 100 · Outstanding
Released2018-
Audio
Driverdynamicdynamic
Driver size44 mm42 mm
Drivers per side22
Frequency response20Hz-20kHz10Hz-41kHz
Impedance38 Ω300 Ω
Sensitivity98 dB/mW99.8 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)-103
Wireless
BluetoothNo-
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Battery
Wireless chargingNo-
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controlsbuttonsbuttons
Design
Weight261 g260 g
Water resistancenone-
Foldable-No
Detachable cableNoYes
USB-CNoNo
Balanced connection-Yes

What reviewers said

Grado Sr125x

The Grado SR125e is an open-back dynamic headphone known for its energetic, quick response and controlled low-end. While it can be driven easily by most sources, pairing it with a dedicated amplifier can unlock its full potential. Its sound signature includes a noticeable emphasis in the midrange, and the attached cable is quite sturdy but not user-replaceable.

  • Pro:Fast, energetic sound
  • Pro:Tight, well-defined bass
  • Pro:Easy to drive without an amp
  • Con:Prominent midrange spike may be fatiguing
  • Con:Thick, non-detachable cable
  • Con:Open-back leaks sound and offers little isolation

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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