
Sennheiser HD 650 vs Sony Mdr-Mv1: 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 | Sony Mdr-Mv1 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $380 | $338 |
| HearWiki score | 85 / 100 · Outstanding | 82 / 100 · Great |
| Released | - | 2023 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | dynamic |
| Driver size | 42 mm | 40 mm |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 2 |
| Frequency response | 10Hz-41kHz | 5 Hz - 80,000 Hz |
| Impedance | 300 Ω | 24 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 99.8 dB/mW | 100 dB/mW |
| Sensitivity (dB/Vrms) | 103 | - |
| Wireless | ||
| Bluetooth | - | none |
| Multipoint pairing | No | No |
| Battery | ||
| Wireless charging | - | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| Controls | buttons | buttons |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 260 g | 223 g |
| Water resistance | - | none |
| Foldable | No | - |
| Detachable cable | Yes | 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
Sony Mdr-Mv1
The Sony MDR-MV1 is an open-back studio headphone designed for accurate monitoring, with a generally neutral sound signature and a touch more bass than typical open-back models. It offers a spacious, detailed presentation and long-wearing comfort, making it a solid pick for mixing, mastering, and immersive audio work. Its 24-ohm impedance and dynamic driver keep it easy to drive, though its tonal balance may not suit those seeking a more colored or energetic sound.
- Pro:Neutral, detailed sound with good clarity
- Pro:Very comfortable for long listening sessions
- Pro:Open-back design provides a wide, spacious soundstage
- Con:Tonal balance could be more even or engaging
- Con:Lacks some drive and punch in the low end
- Con:No wireless or ANC features
Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.
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