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Sennheiser HD 650 vs ZMF Auteur: 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
ZMF Auteur
Sound8.5
Value6.5

Specifications

Specification comparison of Sennheiser HD 650 vs ZMF Auteur
SpecSennheiser HD 650ZMF Auteur
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$380$235
HearWiki score85 / 100 · Outstanding78 / 100 · Great
Released-2017
Audio
Driverdynamicdynamic
Driver size42 mm50 mm
Drivers per side21
Frequency response10Hz-41kHz10Hz-25kHz
Sound signature-Bright neutral
Impedance300 Ω300 Ω
Sensitivity99.8 dB/mW97 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)103-
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controlsbuttons-
Design
Weight260 g470 g
FoldableNo-
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

ZMF Auteur

The ZMF Auteur is an open-back, wood-crafted flagship headphone with a bright-neutral sound signature that balances technical detail with musicality. Its wide soundstage and intimate vocal presentation make it stand out, while its 300-ohm dynamic drivers deliver solid bass and treble presence. Though not purely clinical, it offers strong overall value and engaging fidelity in its price class.

  • Pro:Wide, spacious soundstage
  • Pro:Intimate and natural vocal reproduction
  • Pro:Engaging, musical tuning with good bass and treble presence
  • Con:Requires a capable amplifier due to high impedance
  • Con:Bright-neutral signature may not suit all listeners
  • Con:Heavier build at 470 grams

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

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