Last updated: March 29, 2024Welcome to our expansive, deep-dive review of the legendary Sennheiser HD 598 headphones. This model, esteemed by discerning audiophiles and casual listeners around the globe, is truly a marvel to behold. Herein, we shall dissect the Sennheiser HD 598 from every conceivable angle, diving into its design philosophy, build quality, audio performance, and much more, leaving no stone unturned. This dear reader, is your definitive guide to this enduring audio legend.
The name “Sennheiser” needs little introduction to those familiar with high-fidelity audio equipment. The German company, founded in 1945, has consistently demonstrated a remarkable ability to craft headphones that are as visually appealing as they are sonically powerful. The HD 598 model is a testament to this rich heritage, beautifully blending a comfortable design, superior sound performance, and durable construction into one product that has withstood the test of time.
The Sennheiser HD 598 was initially released in 2010. Despite being over a decade old, it has managed to retain its relevance and popularity in a market that has seen newer models and technologies emerge. But what factors contribute to its sustained success? What makes the HD 598 an enduring choice for many audio enthusiasts and professionals? Let us explore these aspects in detail.
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of the Sennheiser HD 598, it’s essential to understand the basic specifications that define this product. These form the cornerstone of our understanding and offer a base upon which we can contextualize the performance and features of these headphones.
As we analyze the Sennheiser HD 598, the first thing to note is its unmistakable sense of elegance combined with robust construction. The headphones are significantly more substantial than the lighter HD 558 model. This weight lends an undeniable feeling of solidity to the product, indicating its strength and durability without being a detriment to prolonged usage. The well-distributed weight across the headphone and the use of premium materials connote a level of robustness that speaks volumes about its potential lifespan.
The design approach is unorthodox yet sophisticated, with an unconventional blend of maroon and ivory that gives these headphones a distinctive aesthetic, ensuring they stand out without being flamboyantly conspicuous. The use of premium metal mesh and high-gloss burl wood detailing further enhances the luxurious appeal of these headphones, distinguishing them from their contemporaries in terms of style. However, there’s also the Special Edition Black variant if you prefer something more conventional.
A key point of discussion is the comfort offered by the Sennheiser HD 598. The circumaural, over-ear design and the ample padding on the earcups, covered with velour, create an exceptional comfort level. The headphones feel soft yet secure on the ears, which minimizes fatigue during extended listening periods. The headband is padded with leatherette, providing a comfortable grip on the head without causing unnecessary pressure. The comfort factor sets these headphones apart and makes them a favorite amongst users who spend many hours wearing them, such as gaming enthusiasts and audio professionals.
The audio performance of the Sennheiser HD 598 is where it shines brightest. It is characterized by a well-balanced sound signature that can handle a wide variety of genres effortlessly. Despite not being a bass-heavy headphone, it does not compromise on the lows. The bass response is not overwhelmingly powerful but precise and tight, providing just enough punch to satisfy most listeners. Bass enthusiasts might want to consider other options, but for those seeking balance and clarity, the HD 598 won’t disappoint.
The mid-range is, without a doubt, the star of the show. It is incredibly well-tuned, offering rich and detailed sound reproduction that brings vocals and instruments to life. The balance in the midrange results in a smooth and natural sound that provides a pleasurable listening experience across different music genres, podcasts, and audiobooks.
The treble, too, deserves particular mention. While it is not the most prominent feature of the HD 598, it is well-executed, providing the right level of brightness without tipping into sibilance or harshness. It is smooth, and detailed, and adds a pleasing sparkle to the overall sound. This careful balance ensures clear sound reproduction and a pleasurable listening experience, even at higher volumes.
The Sennheiser HD 598’s open-back design significantly contributes to its wide and spacious soundstage. The openness of the soundstage creates an out-of-head listening experience that resembles listening to speakers in a room. It provides an immersive audio experience, something particularly beneficial to gaming enthusiasts. For gaming, the expansive soundstage and accurate imaging allow gamers to locate sounds accurately in a 3D space. This feature, coupled with the extreme comfort offered by the headphones, makes the Sennheiser HD 598 an excellent choice for long gaming sessions.
When you invest in a pair of headphones, the design isn’t just about aesthetics; it should also provide durability, ensuring that your investment stands the test of time. The Sennheiser HD 598, built with high-quality materials, offers exactly this.
The headphones’ frame is composed of high-grade plastic, which might initially cause some users to raise an eyebrow. After all, there’s a common misconception that plastic equals cheap or fragile. However, the plastic used in the construction of the HD 598 is tough, and it actually confers a key advantage: it keeps the headphones light. A lighter frame contributes to the overall comfort of the headphones, allowing you to wear them for hours on end without feeling any discomfort. The plastic is also resistant to the usual wear and tear, offering a degree of durability that rivals many headphones made from heavier materials.
The ear pads are covered with luxurious velour, which provides a plush feeling on the skin, enhancing the comfort of the headphones. What’s more, the pads are replaceable. That means you can easily swap them out when they succumbed to wear, extending the headphones’ lifespan. This is an often-overlooked feature but one that highlights the thoughtfulness that Sennheiser has put into the design of the HD 598.
The headband, similarly, is padded and covered with a high-grade leatherette, providing a secure and comfortable fit. It can withstand extensive use without showing signs of wear. This combination of high-quality materials and intelligent design leads to a product that sounds and feels great and has a considerable lifespan.
Though we’ve discussed the performance of the Sennheiser HD 598 in terms of music and gaming, its versatility extends beyond these applications. These headphones perform admirably across a range of audio-visual media, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a multi-purpose audio device.
For movie enthusiasts, the HD 598 brings cinematic audio right to your ears. The expansive soundstage allows for accurate placement of sound effects, and the headphones’ balanced sound signature ensures that dialogue is clear and easily understood. The high level of detail present in the audio also means that you’ll be able to pick up on subtle background noises and atmospheric sounds that lesser headphones might miss, enhancing the overall cinematic experience.
For those interested in virtual or augmented reality, the immersive quality of the HD 598’s sound makes them a perfect companion to these experiences. As with gaming, the ability to accurately locate sounds in a 3D space is crucial in virtual reality, and the HD 598 delivers in this regard. The comfort factor also comes into play here, as VR sessions can often run long.
The Sennheiser HD 598 is also well-suited to professional applications. For those involved in sound editing or mixing, these headphones’ balanced sound signature and detailed audio reproduction provide an accurate reference for making precise adjustments. The comfort factor again comes into play, as these tasks often require extended periods of headphone use.
Despite the HD 598’s many merits, there are other options worth considering. Some competitors within a similar price range and offering comparable features include the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X, Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, and AKG K701.
The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X offers a similar open-back design, aiming for a wide soundstage and accurate sound reproduction. However, it has a brighter sound profile compared to the HD 598, which may not be to everyone’s liking. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is another strong contender. It is well-regarded for its robust build and detailed sound. However, depending on one’s preference, it has a pronounced treble and a more substantial bass response, which can be both a pro and a con. The AKG K701, on the other hand, provides an impressively wide soundstage, albeit with a less substantial bass response than the HD 598.
Each of these alternatives offers its unique pros and cons, and choosing the right one largely depends on personal preferences regarding sound signature, comfort, and design aesthetics.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser HD 598, even years after its initial release, remains an exemplar of the brand’s dedication to providing superior audio equipment. Its meticulously engineered design and high-quality components deliver an audio experience that stands the test of time.
From their detailed and balanced audio reproduction to their luxurious comfort and robust design, these headphones serve as a versatile tool that can cater to a wide range of audio needs. Whether you’re an audiophile seeking a new addition to your collection, a gamer needing an immersive audio companion, a professional requiring a reliable reference for audio work, or a casual listener wanting to enjoy high-quality audio, the Sennheiser HD 598 remains a worthy consideration.
Despite the emergence of new audio technology and stiff competition, Sennheiser continues to be a respected brand in the audio industry. The HD 598 serves as a reminder of the brand’s commitment to quality, durability, and, above all, the passion for delivering excellent sound. Thus, whether you’re new to the audio world or a seasoned veteran, Sennheiser remains a brand that you can trust for your audio needs.
