Introduction
Sennheiser has upgraded the HD660 with a newer version, the HD660S2. The S2 is not just an added letter and number, but it’s really something else.. How? Read it here!
Specifications
Let’s check the specifications
- Drivers: 38mm
- Active noise cancellation: No
- Impedance: 300 Ohms
- Weight: 260g
- Connectivity: Cable (coaxial: 6. 3mm & 4. 4mm and speaker:3. 5mm)
- Frequency range: 8Hz-41,500Hz
Where the 8Hz goes quite low – which is great!
Design and Comfort
The Sennheiser, the HD 660S2 is improved physically and driver wise as well. Great thing of the HD660S2 is that it’s quite light and quite strong. The headband does flex well, the pads are soft and sit great around your ears.
Sennheiser also gave an option to renew the pads – since they are removable. The headband however is a whole different story. It cannot be removed or changed.
The HD660S2 looks stylish and it is available in black.
Plush Cushioning
Long listening periods require comfort and that aspect Sennheiser has not negated in creating the HD-660S2 headset. The cochlea pads are well laminated with luxury feel foam that fits the outer portion of the ear comfortably. This not only makes it much more comfortable to wear but also produces a suitable skin effect for sealing which is great for sound.
Rigid Headband
The band of the HD-660S2 is flexible and the material used on the band can only allow it to be a little tight just enough to encompass the users’ head conveniently. It has the basis constructed in a very rigid way to ensure that it reduces the level of vibrations known to influence the quality of sound. Concerning the headband, one might experience a thought that it seems quite massive; yet, it rests gently on the head, and thus, wearing it long is not uncomfortable.
Weight and Portability
At the same time, the HD-660S2 headphones have a necessary and rather massive outlook, although, the headphones are lightweight, it weighs 260 grams. Such characteristics of balance of weight and durability signify the fact that the players do not get easily fatigued when they are playing for long periods. However, they are not very portable; the ear cup part does not swivel to lie flat and the headphones cannot fold which makes it somewhat a rather large pair of headphones.
Comfort During Extended Use
All headphones that can be Bluetooth are expected to have comfort features especially during long hours of listening to the songs. The HD-660S2 performs exceptionally specially on this account. First and foremost, apart from having an outstanding ability to self-power, they are also very comfortable, thanks to the comfortable cushioning and an excellent balance of a headband.
Aesthetics vs. Functionality
Sennheiser has been successful in offer aesthetic value as well as functionality of the HD-660S2. Despite the compromise on aesthetics, every single object on the show incorporates sleek elements that determines their functionality. It also shows that the type of materials consciously applied are not only aesthetic but perform a functional role in the headphones.
Sound Quality
With reference to the headphones, the sound quality is the most important factor, and in this case, the Sennheiser HD-660S2 set does not leave this aspect unquestioned. These headphones are designed to be flat and do not alter the sound frequencies which will be suitable for producer and singer, and party and movie lover. It would be beneficial to take a closer look at the aspects of sound quality of their songs now.
Neutral Audio Signature
The key feature of the new HD-660S2 is the original and natural sound that is considered to be neutral bass. It does not have earmarks that push the highs or lows like some headphones that are bass heavy like the HD-660S2. This balance is especially important to audio workers like sound engineers, music producers, who need trustworthy equipment to analyze sound as is on record to make proper tuning during mixing and mastering.
Detailed Sound Reproduction
The HD-660 has some very strong points of which the major one is that the headphone can produce very detailed sound. The headphones even have 38mm drivers and frequency response that ranges from 8 Hz to 41,500 Hz. This extensive range allows one to get all the details of their music be it the bass or the high pitches in present.
Bass Response
Like the previous versions, the aspects of frequency balance are retained while a marginal boost in bass performance is observed. It also increases the release for the lower frequencies, giving that full sounding bass without completely obliterating the other registers. As a consequence, the listening becomes less tiring, yet more detailed and informational, as compared to formats employing the M/S matrix.
Midrange Clarity
These are the critical midrange frequencies containing most of the detail and character of music and the HD-660S2 performs them extremely well. The quality of the vocals, the guitar, and any other mid-frequency instruments sounds natural and clear, revealing the track in its entire detail.
High-Frequency Performance
Regarding high-frequency performance, HD-660S2 is also very good. Extremely clear highs are achieved in the headphones’ performance while they do not become sharp or piercing. This balanced high-end response means there are no aspects of your favourite music left unprocessed, contributing to the sensation of being there.
Soundstage and Imaging
Perhaps, one of the key features of the HD-660S2 is the large area it presents to the listener. The open-back design evens out the width and height of the sound stage and the general sound giving a real live concert feel. This wideness is well balanced with acute steroness; with every instrument and sound placed as carefully as the musician’s fingers on the fretboard. These two qualities work together to add to the overall impact of the word choice and the global sense that the reader is actually hearing the words.
Harmonic Distortion
Coh, harmonic distortion poses a great threat in as much as lister experience is concerned especially at increased loudness levels. In this regard, the HD-660S2 stands out well considering the low total harmonic distortion (THD). What this effectively means that even at high volume, the headphones have to deliver a clear sound, that is also as close to the original as is humanly possible, without adding the unnecessary distortion.
Comparison with Closed-Back Headphones
Given that the headphones are open-back ones, the sound of the HD-660S2 seems more natural compared to closed-back headphones. Since the back of these headphones is sealed, they have a relatively limited sound stage and can sound ‘boxed in’ at times. On the flip side, HD-660S2 open the back of the headphone which unquestionably allows sound to live which in turn equates to real life.
Connectivity Options
For flexibility in connectivity the Sennheiser HD-660S2 headphones are designed to work with multiple types of sources to connect to. This versatility becomes especially useful for those who have various devices which they connect the headphones for various uses. Now it is high time to look closer at connectivity options.
Wired Connectivity
The HD-660S2 headphones are meant to be wired, which plays a paramount in having the best possible audio experience. With connectivity cables, there is no obstruction on the signals likely to be issued by other related connections and therefore maximum, unhampered sound quality.
Detachable Cables
The other unique aspect of the HD-660S2 is that the headphones are cable mattered and come with detachable cables. This design enables you to use the wanted cables, it means that you can freely change the cables by your needs and choice. This also increases the durability of the headphones because if at some point the cable has become faulty, you just have to change the cable instead of the whole headset.
6. 3mm Cable
Included with the headphones, there is an ordinary 6. 3mm (26 inches) cable, which is still referred to as ¼” for old times’ sake – this type of connection is most often used in studio equipment. This makes it suitable for studio use as the user can easily connect it to mixing consoles, amplifiers and other high quality audio equipment.
4. 4mm Balanced Cable
Apart from the 6. 3mm cable this headset comes with the second cable that is 4. 4mm balanced. The balanced connections also Some of the benefits of equal proportions are that it has minimal crosstalk and interference, and that too can be improved on. This cable is highly recommended for music lovers and other people who are extremely selective when it comes to audio quality of their components.
3. 5mm Adapter
However, for daily use, it has the included 3. 5mm connector that comes with this HD-660S2. This adapter enables the headphones to be connected with various consumer devices such as the Smartphone, the laptop, the portable music players. It is also important to notice that these devices are not as good as a professional ones in terms of audio performance, but, for example, the 3. 5mm adapter means that you will be able to use the HD-660S2 with whatever devices you have at the moment.
Compatibility with DACs and Amplifiers
High-impedance headphones such as the Shure HD-660S2 are even recommended to be used with a good quality DAC or better still an amplifier. These devices can give the needed power required to power the headphones adequately to allow you to get the best from their performance. Thus, the large number of modern DACs and amplifiers have outputs in 6. 3mm and 4. 4mm, which allows connecting the HD-660S2.
Importance of High-Quality Sources
Yet, their potential is best realized when fed by a way more substantial-quality signal from, for instance, a smartphone or a laptop. Large files and specialist audio devices can present the array and quality that these headphones are capable of reproducing. From this, it is clear that by using a quality source; one gets to explore the full potential of the HD-660S2.
Comparison with Wireless Headphones
Though wireless headphones are convenient in that they solve the problem of cables’ interferences, they has a downside in the form of loss of quality thanks to compression and signal interference. Actually, with no wireless technology incorporated into the design of the HD-660S2, it eliminates all the possible associated disadvantages that come with the use of the wired one.
Performance with Different Devices
Sennheiser claims that the specific models like the Sennheiser HD-660S2 headphones are sensitive to the quality and type of audio source and devices used. It is crucial to explain the ways how these headphones can be used with the various devices and what steps can be taken to achieve the greatest sound quality.
High-Impedance Headphones
Nevertheless, these headphones come with an impressive 300-ohm impedance; therefore, they are considered high-impedance headphones. As an extension to this principle, high impedance headphones are used for premium sound quality but need more power output from the source. What this means is that the outcome that you are going to get from the HD-660S2 can significantly depend on the device that you use to power them.
Compatible with the Smartphones and Laptops
As for the 3. 5 mm source connectivity to smartphones and laptops, they might not give the required power output to fully power the HD-660S2 headphones. Thus the sound may be somewhat lower in detail, and dynamics as compared to what the headphone can produce. But for those occasional listening stations or when one does not have much money to spend, then these devices will still do.
High performance with DACs and Amplifiers
For great performance from the headphones, it is desirable to use a specific DAC or an amplifier for the HD-660S2. These devices can supply the required amounts of power and enhance the audio by diminishing crosstalk and signal distortion. There are many good DACs and amplifiers in the market for the HD-660S2 so, you are sure to get the maximum output of your headphones.
Companion for High-Resolution Audio Players
Hi-Res players, stands for high-resolution players, are intended for delivering the highest quality of sound. These devices are capable of handling lossless music formats and delivers the required amount of amplification for high-ohm headphones such as the HD-660S2. Such a headphone when paired with a high-resolution audio player will deliver the details and accurate fidelity of music.
Desktop Audio Interfaces
As for the individuals who focus more on the studio and the usage of headphones as well as other music instruments, the use of desktop audio interfaces would be of great benefit. These interfaces also offer audio output and have the ability needed to power high-impedance headphones for use. They also come with a variety of connectivity options and therefore can easily fit into the existing audio system.
Influence of Audio on Various Types of Inputs
There for the quality and the source of the audio in the HD-660S2 can greatly be influenced by. To be more precise, FLAC or DSD high-definition files are significantly superior to other formats like MP3 because of the presence of unusual additional data. As with regards to the audio quality, the HD-660S2 can bring out the beauty of high-resolution audio files.
Importance of Proper Amplification
Amplification is very important in order to achieve the best results from using the HD-660S2. Make sure that with the kind of headphones you are using, they get the kind of power they need through the amplifier. Most of the high-end amplifiers are intended for the high impedance headphones with the adequate level of power output and signal quality to drive the HD-660S2 properly.
Comparison with Other High-Impedance Headphones
Basically, the sound quality of the HD-660S2 depends on the ranking of high impedance headphones models, since it refers to this type. When loudness is needed it becomes neutral and clear, which is on par with other high-end speakers. Nevertheless, peculiarities of the sound may be different depending on the kind of headphones’ design and their tuning.
Use Cases
Therefore, Sennheiser HD-660S2 headphones can be described as versatile and suitable for various uses. They are ideal to use in many circumstances because they have neutral sounds, comfortable feel, and excellent build. It is now time to take a closer look at the major application scenarios of these headphones.
Studio Use
These headphones are perfectly suitable for studio use as the above information clearly depicted. Being acoustically neutral, they allow produced sound to remain as close to the source as possible, which is essential when fine tuning tracks. The mentioned open-back design offers an immense sound stage which enables audio specialists to fine-tune the headphones and get the detailed impression of the recorded sound.
- Mixing and Mastering: The micro detailing and flat frequency response are perfect for the studio because it ensures the most accurate sonics reproduction.
- Recording: Despite the fact that open backed headphones do not fit studio recording setting because of the leakage, they come in handy in monitoring sessions and listening to the recordings.
Audiophile Listening
For those listeners who are mostly into the sound quality of the headphones, the HD-660S2 provides deep immersion together with the detailed audio quality. This ultimately means that at home the headphones can clearly reproduce all the details that accompany high resolution audio files.
- High-Resolution Audio: Compared with MP3 format, the high-definition audio players and DACs support from HD-660S2 provide the optimal experience.
- Vinyl Listening: Analyzing the acoustics of all these headphones, I need to say that they are perfect for vinyl collection listening, as they are delivering ‘analog warmth’ sound.
Casual Listening
The latter however are not only good for professional and audiophile use, but are also suitable for more informal listening. They have a snug fit that permits comfy listening sessions as well as steady and also established songs without fatiguing the ears.
- Home Listening: It gives a good sound quality for casual listening and great for any genre of music, from albums to the streaming services.
- Movies and Gaming: The sound stage and the clarity of the sound are some of the best qualities that make these headphones suitable for movie and gaming experience.
Comparison with Portable Use
Nevertheless, the HD-660S2 is exceptional in the different areas specified, but the model is not portable at all. Due to the fact that they are open-back headphones that is, there is little to no acoustic isolation, which translates to them being more or less appropriate for use in loud environments or for on the go listening.
- Travel: They are not portable and this one that we are discussing, the HD-660S2 is one of those that cannot be taken around. That is why it is recommended to use closed-back or noise-canceling headphones for this purpose.
- Public Spaces: These headphones are not very portable because the open-back design makes the sound leak and other people around you can be bothered by the sound.
Specialized Applications
As for the specific applications, the HD-660S2 can come in handy for such scenarios that are beyond the primary usage of headphones, but are in demand of a good sound.
- Sound Design: If you are a sound designer in charge of ensuring sound for movies, video games, or any other multimedia, the HD-660S2 is the perfect monitor that will give you the necessary details to do the job right.
- Audiobook Production: Because of the lack of any particular coloration in the sound, such headphones are great for audiobooks: every word will be recorded without any distortions.
Final Thoughts
The Sennheiser HD-660S2 has been pinpointed as being an ideal product for anyone wishing to purchase a set of headphones that offers a superior sound quality and comfort to the buyer, in this case the customers. For those who work being an independent studio, for those who listen to high-resolution audio, for those who seek the best built-in sound at home, the HD-660S2 offers a worthy combination of quality and price. This concept may allow their sound to be more balanced, the design to be more comfortable and the connectivity to be more versatile for the over expectation of high end headphones consumer worldwide.
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