Over-Ear
Sennheiser HD 800
88Outstanding
$1800
Full review dataSennheiser HD 800 vs STAX SR-L700MK2: which should you buy?
On aggregated review scores the Sennheiser HD 800 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 88. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.
Our pick: Sennheiser HD 800 - Outstanding overall at around $1800.
Over-Ear
STAX SR-L700MK2
84Great
$1035
Full review dataScore breakdown
Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.
Sennheiser HD 800
Sound9.5
Noise cancelling0.0
Value6.5
STAX SR-L700MK2
Sound9.0
Value7.5
Specifications
| Spec | Sennheiser HD 800 | STAX SR-L700MK2 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Price (USD) | $1800 | $1035 |
| HearWiki score | 88 / 100 · Outstanding | 84 / 100 · Great |
| Released | 2009 | 2016 |
| Audio | ||
| Driver | dynamic | Push-Pull Open Back Oval Electrostatic |
| Driver size | 56 mm | - |
| Drivers per side | 2 | 1 |
| Frequency response | 14Hz-44.1kHz | 7Hz-41kHz |
| Impedance | 300 Ω | 145000 Ω |
| Sensitivity | 102 dB/mW | 101 dB/mW |
| Sensitivity (dB/Vrms) | 102 | - |
| Wireless | ||
| Multipoint pairing | No | No |
| Features | ||
| Active noise cancelling | No | No |
| Design | ||
| Weight | 330 g | 363 g |
| Detachable cable | Yes | Yes |
| USB-C | No | - |
| Balanced connection | Yes | - |
What reviewers said
Sennheiser HD 800
The Sennheiser HD 800 is a premium open-back headphone designed for audiophiles who prioritize an expansive, speaker-like soundstage and exceptional detail retrieval. Its large dynamic drivers and angled transducer placement deliver a wide, airy presentation with precise imaging, though it demands a powerful amplifier to perform at its best. While the price tag is steep, the combination of engineering precision, comfort, and clarity makes it a standout choice for serious listening at home.
- Pro:Exceptional soundstage width and spatial imaging
- Pro:Highly detailed and resolving treble with controlled bass
- Pro:Very comfortable for long listening sessions
- Con:Requires a high-power amplifier; not suitable for portable use
- Con:Fully open design offers no noise isolation
- Con:Expensive retail price
STAX SR-L700MK2
The STAX SR-L700MK2 is an open-back electrostatic headphone that delivers outstanding clarity, transparency, and an expansive soundstage, making it a top-tier choice for detail-oriented listeners. It offers much of the flagship electrostatic character at a more accessible price point, though it requires a dedicated amplifier and may not satisfy those seeking heavy bass or a dramatic presentation. While its sonic performance is exceptional, the build quality is a notable letdown given the premium cost.
- Pro:Exceptional clarity and detail retrieval
- Pro:Impressive soundstage and openness
- Pro:Strong value within the electrostatic lineup
- Con:Lacks bass impact and extension
- Con:Build quality feels subpar for the price
- Con:Needs a dedicated electrostatic 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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