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Sennheiser HD 650 vs Shure Srh1840: 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.

Sennheiser HD 650
Sound9.0
Value7.5
Shure Srh1840
Sound7.5
Value6.5

Specifications

Specification comparison of Sennheiser HD 650 vs Shure Srh1840
SpecSennheiser HD 650Shure Srh1840
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$380$620
HearWiki score85 / 100 · Outstanding72 / 100 · Good
Released-2012
Audio
Driverdynamicdynamic
Driver size42 mm40 mm
Drivers per side21
Frequency response10Hz-41kHz10Hz-30kHz
Impedance300 Ω65 Ω
Sensitivity99.8 dB/mW96 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)103-
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controlsbuttons-
Design
Weight260 g268 g
FoldableNoNo
Detachable cableYesYes
USB-CNoNo
Balanced connectionYesYes

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 Srh1840

The Shure SRH1840 is a lightweight, open-back dynamic headphone aimed at studio professionals, offering a notably flat and detailed sound signature with a wide soundstage. Its build is solid and drivers are well-matched, but it demands quality amplification due to its moderate impedance and lower sensitivity, and some measurements point to distortion issues that may affect critical listening. Overall, it's a capable tool for mixing and monitoring when paired with the right gear, though not ideal for portable use.

  • Pro:Very flat, neutral frequency response
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable for long sessions
  • Pro:Expansive soundstage with clear treble
  • Con:Higher harmonic distortion at certain frequencies
  • Con:Less efficient, needs a good amp
  • Con:Not suitable for portable devices

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

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