Sennheiser HD 505

Sennheiser HD 505: Exquisite Design and Robust Construction

Visually, the open HD 505 fits into the 500 series’ design language. The lightweight, matte-black plastic construction (237 grams) with copper-colored decorative elements is indeed appealing. The oval padded ear cups are slightly swivel- and rotatable and are connected to the likewise padded, length-adjustable headband.

The headphones themselves come in a box with a single-sided, detachable 1.8 m cable featuring a 3.5 mm plug and a 6.3 mm jack adapter. According to the manufacturer, all components are designed for longevity. Thus, the ear pads and the connection cable can be replaced if necessary. It is therefore also possible to upgrade the Sennheiser HD 505 with a cable that includes an integrated microphone or to convert it for balanced operation. The technical core of the construction is formed by the company’s own 120-ohm drivers, manufactured in Ireland and mounted at a slight angle, which, according to Sennheiser, provide a frequency response of 12 to 38,500 Hz and offer minimal distortion.

Sennheiser HD 505 in Practice: Comfortable Fit and Versatile Use

The Sennheiser HD 505 is a straightforward product for sound reproduction. It impresses with its comfortable fit and sits securely without being too tight on the head. Thanks to the soft ear cushioning, I do not feel any pressure even during longer listening sessions. Personally, I also like the typical Sennheiser fabric covering on the ear pads, which causes less heat buildup than artificial leather. The latter is then found on the headband padding, contributing to a decorative and indeed high-quality overall impression.

The Sennheiser HD 505 is primarily recommended for use within your own four walls. Sennheiser names music lovers and gamers who value high sound quality as the target audience.

Sennheiser HD 505: Analytical, Balanced Sound and Dynamic Sound Performance

The HD 505 delivers a balanced, punchy, and broad sound image with an analytical character. In doing so, it follows the typical sound signature of Sennheiser’s audiophile products. It sounds tidy and is rather lean in the low frequencies instead of extremely thick. At the same time, the dynamic drivers act airy at the top, revealing many details, transients, and the spatiality of a recording.

“Galleon Ship” by Nick Cave, for example, impresses with deep bass and a clearly articulated singing voice with a well-audible spatial component. I was similarly impressed by Roy Orbison’s performance on “The Comedians.” His voice has the necessary intimacy, the right timbre, and the required fullness, while the string instruments set wonderfully percussive accents in the wide stereo panorama. The good transient reproduction of a guitar and the honest timbre of the singing voice also make “Rumble Doll” by Patty Scialfa an enjoyable listen. The Sennheiser HD 505 sounds airy and gives the arrangement the necessary transparency and width in the stereo image.

The timing is also convincing: the voices of Alison Krauss and Robert Plant on “Can’t Let Go” coincide perfectly, yet remain clearly distinguishable. The drums, too, prove remarkably spatial and dynamic in this recording.

Even with distorted guitars, the headphones bring out the differences of various productions, from Alice in Chains to Slayer. Nor is it lacking in the bite that metal especially requires. At the same time, the Sennheiser HD 505 never overshoots in the highs, assuming a good mix.

If you want to really let it rock, in my case with the DAP Shanling M3X (review), you can turn it up confidently—the HD 505 does not give in that quickly.

Even in comparison to the more expensive Sennheiser HD 660 S (review), the test device does quite well. The sound signature is clearly related. Ultimately, the HD 660 S, at about twice the price, wins out with higher wearing comfort and a somewhat more intense sound reproduction and spatiality.

I was unfortunately unable to compare it directly with the HD 599 SE, the top model of the 500 series. According to Sennheiser, the HD 505 indeed has a comparable frequency response tuning. Interestingly, both the HD 599 SE and the HD 560 are cheaper than the test device.

Sennheiser HD 505 Conclusion: Top Value for Audiophile Beginners

Sennheiser positions the HD 505 as an entry-level model in the audiophile range. With its straightforward and comfortable construction, the manufacturer truly succeeds in bringing the typical sound of corresponding Sennheiser headphones to an attractive price level: a lean tuning, analytical detail resolution, and an airy high-frequency range. That guarantees listening pleasure. The price-performance ratio is accordingly good, although there is definitely competition—even from the company’s own ranks.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Sennheiser HD 505

Who is the Sennheiser HD 505 particularly suited for?

The HD 505 is ideal for music lovers and gamers who place great importance on sound quality in a comfortable, robust design. Its open design makes it particularly suitable for use in a home environment, where an analytical, wide-ranging sound is appreciated.

Is the Sennheiser HD 505 also suitable for long listening sessions?

Yes, thanks to its comfortable design with soft, breathable ear pads, which are made in Sennheiser’s characteristic fabric, the HD 505 remains pleasant to wear even during extended listening sessions. It is therefore an excellent choice for intensive music enjoyment at home or for long gaming sessions.

How robust is the HD 505, and can its components be replaced?

Sennheiser has designed the HD 505 for longevity. All components are sturdily built, and the ear pads as well as the connection cable can be replaced if needed. For instance, you can upgrade the cable with an integrated microphone or adapt the headphones for balanced operation.

What type of drivers does the HD 505 use, and what is its frequency response?

At its core, the HD 505 works with in-house 120-ohm drivers, produced in Ireland and mounted at a slight angle. These drivers offer a frequency response of 12 Hz to 38,500 Hz, delivering a clear, detailed sound with minimal distortion.

How can the HD 505’s sound quality be described?

The HD 505 delivers an analytical, balanced sound with dynamic performance. It produces a broad, airy soundstage with clear mids and refined highs. Although the bass is somewhat leaner compared to closed models, it remains precise and well-controlled, providing a sophisticated listening experience.

What accessories are included with the HD 505?

The HD 505 comes in a stylish box containing a 1.8 m cable with a 3.5 mm plug and a 6.3 mm jack adapter, as well as a drawstring pouch for storage.

How does the HD 505 compare to higher-end models like the HD 660 S or HD 599 SE?

Although the HD 505 has a similar frequency response to more expensive models, it is positioned as an entry-level device for audiophiles. It impresses with sound quality and solid workmanship at a more affordable price, while premium models may offer even more comfort and a still more refined sound reproduction.