
Sennheiser HD 650 vs Shure Srh1440: 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 | Sennheiser HD 650 | Shure Srh1440 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $380 | $279 |
| HearWiki score | 85 / 100 · Outstanding | 78 / 100 · Great |
| Released | - | 2012 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver size | 42 mm | 40 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 10Hz-41kHz | 15Hz-27kHz |
| Impedance | 300 Ω | 37 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 99.8 dB/mW | 101 dB/mW |
| Sensitivity (dB/Vrms) | 103 | - |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| Controls | buttons | - |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 260 g | 343 g |
| Foldable | No | - |
| Detachable cable | Yes | - |
| USB-C | No | No |
| Balanced connection | Yes | Yes |
What reviewers said
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
Shure Srh1440
The Shure SRH1440 is an open-back, over-ear headphone that offers a detailed and neutral sound signature, making it a solid choice for critical listening. It features a lightweight, comfortable build with detachable cables and velour pads, though its plastic construction and need for adequate amplification are worth noting. Overall, it delivers strong performance for its price, especially for those who prioritize clarity and tonal balance.
- Pro:Detailed and neutral sound with good tonal balance
- Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for extended listening sessions
- Pro:Detachable cable and included accessories like velour pads
- Con:Build quality relies heavily on plastic materials
- Con:Low sensitivity may require a more powerful amplifier for best results
- Con:Open-back design leaks sound and offers little isolation
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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