Introduction
Sennheiser recently launched the HD 620S Closed Back Headphones, the first closed-back model in their popular HD 6 series. Having previously used the HD 650, HD 660S, and HD 660S2, I was excited to try the HD 620S. These headphones promise to deliver the HD series' renowned sound quality while offering the added benefit of noise isolation, making them suitable for both home and office use. Let's dive deeper into the HD 620S' sound, build, and comfort.
Design and Build Quality
The design of the Sennheiser HD 620S is reminiscent of other models like the HD 560S, but it features new leather earpads and a headpad. The outer part of the earcups is made of steel and painted matte black, matching the plastic components. Overall, the HD 620S boasts excellent build quality, maintaining a premium feel and sturdy construction suitable for daily use.
The cable is made of a soft, rubbery material and includes both 3.5mm and 6.35mm removable audio jacks. I encountered no issues while using this cable.
Comfort and Fit
The Sennheiser HD 620S is slightly heavier than other HD 6 series models, but the weight is well-distributed, making it comfortable to wear for extended periods. The leather earpads are incredibly comfortable, perfect for long listening sessions, watching movies, or gaming. The earcups cover the entire ear without causing pressure, and the noise isolation is excellent.
Sound Quality
I tested the HD 620S with my MacBook Air, HiBy R4, and Gustard H16 & X16. While the MacBook Air struggled to provide substantial sound, the HiBy R4 and Gustard H16 & X16 showcased the HD 620S' capabilities. With adequate power, these headphones can scale impressively.
My favorite headphones from the HD 6 lineup have been the HD 660S2, but the HD 620S now joins my favorites list. The bass is rumbly and textured, the mid-range is warm and clean, and the treble is natural and detailed. The soundstage is wide, with accurate and precise imaging and layering.
Bass
The HD 620S delivers well-balanced bass, with sub-bass and mid-bass shining when present. The bass has good weight and body, with fast decay and impactful presence. It doesn't bleed into other frequencies, and you can feel the air and vibration of the bass. The bass is deep, thick, warm, and non-fatiguing, performing exceptionally well overall.
Midrange
The midrange is a highlight of the HD 620S, with both male and female vocals given good weight, body, and texture. The vocals remind me of the HD 600 and HD 650 in terms of tonality. The vocals are slightly forward but maintain a good balance, allowing for noticeable detailing and micro nuances. The upper midrange is smooth and never sibilant or harsh. The vocal tonality is natural and warm, making the HD 620S a delight for midrange and balanced sound enthusiasts.
Treble
Despite the warm nature of the HD 620S, the treble remains crisp. It sounds open and airy, not masked by the midrange and bass, and has its own place in the sound arrangement. The treble is safely tuned, making it non-fatiguing even for treble-sensitive listeners. Overall, the treble is smooth, clean, detailed, and non-fatiguing.
Soundstage & Imaging
I had low expectations for the soundstage of the HD 620S, but it pleasantly surprised me with its wide soundstage, despite being a closed-back headphone. The sound doesn't feel boxy or confined. The imaging and layering are excellent and accurate, allowing you to hear every detail clearly without muddiness.
Value and Competition
Sennheiser HD 620S Closed Back Headphones are priced at Rs. 32,990 in India. In the 30K price range, there are few audiophile-grade closed-back headphones available in the Indian market. Within our collection, we have the HD 650, HD 660S, HD 660S2, HD 560S, and various HiFiMAN Planar driver headphones. For this comparison, I will focus on the HD 650 and HD 660S2, as they share a similar price point and driver type.
HD 650 vs. HD 620S
The HD 650 offers a more spacious sound presentation than the HD 620S. However, the bass and treble on the HD 620S are particularly impressive. The midrange of the HD 650 is more mature, while the HD 620S features a slightly more forward midrange. The HD 650 has a warmer sound compared to the HD 620S, which I find more immersive and engaging.
HD 660S2 vs. HD 620S
Both the HD 660S2 and HD 620S deliver similar sound profiles with minor differences. The HD 660S2 has a darker sound signature, while the HD 620S is more sparkly, musical, and impactful. Due to its open-back design, the HD 660S2 sounds more open and airy. Despite this, I enjoyed the sound of the HD 620S over the HD 660S2.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Closed-back audiophile-grade sound ideal for use at office, home, and outdoors | Some users may initially feel the headphones are heavy |
| Rumbly, textured, deep, and warm bass | At this price point, a carry case should be provided |
| Outstanding midrange performance | |
| Smooth and detailed treble | |
| Wide soundstage | |
| Accurate imaging and excellent layering | |
| Comfortable for long listening sessions | |
| Sturdy build quality | |
| Easy to drive and scales up with a powerful amplifier | |
| Value for money |
Conclusion
Whether you are a beginner or serious audiophile, audio enthusiast, gamer, or someone looking for headphones for everyday use without compromising on sound quality, comfort, and build quality, the Sennheiser HD 620S Closed Back Headphones are an excellent choice. They perform well when used with smartphones, desktops, laptops, and iPads, but with a powerful amplifier and DAC, their sound performance truly shines.
Although I'm not usually a fan of headphones, the HD 620S' high-quality leather earpads made them exceptionally comfortable, with no sweating or warmth during use. I've enjoyed using them for watching movies, listening to podcasts, meditating, and long music sessions. I highly recommend adding the HD 620S to your collection.
This HD 620S unit is owned by The Audio Store, and Sennheiser did not influence this review. All opinions are our honest feedback. The HD 620S requires 20+ hours of burn-in time to reach its full potential. If you have any questions, feel free to ask in the comments, and don’t forget to subscribe to our WhatsApp Channel for more amazing audiophile content.
1 comment
Jay Thakkar
I appreciate this concise & informative review of the Sennheiser 620S, Pritam.
I was waiting to know your impressions on this pair of headphones. Having read this review, I’ll consider going for the 620S in the near future.
Keep writing good stuff!