Sennheiser Headphones Aimed At Top End

  • High-end headphones
  • Gold-plated audio jack
  • Detachable cable

Sennheiser has gone after the high end of the audio market with its new 500 Series of headphones. The HD 598, HD 558 and HD 518, are equipped with Sennheiser's specially developed E.A.R. (Eargonomic Acoustic Refinement) technology.

This technology has acoustic baffles inclined at a slight angle guide the audio signal directly to the ears. As a result, the sound is optimally channelled. Neodymium magnets and Duofol diaphragms guarantee natural, lifelike reproduction of even the finest musical details, while low-vibration plastic materials prevent distortions to the sound image, claims Sennheiser.

The HD 558 and HD 598 also feature a sound reflector that optimises the spatial sound effect. A gold-plated 6.3mm audio jack plug provides an optimum connection to the audio source. A new feature is the detachable cable: the bayonet plug is unlocked with a simple twist, allowing it to be easily removed.

The new HD 598 comes with cream-coloured surfaces, dark wood grain effect and glossy metallic trim rounded off with an attractive, exclusive silhouette. The HD 598 also comes with a special diaphragm geometry that is said to minimises intermodulation distortion during sound reproduction, while a constant, compressed cellulose fleece reduces harmonic distortion to below 0.1 percent.

The frequency response is 12 to 38,500 Hertz. The HD 558 has a frequency response of 15 to 28,000 Hertz that is claimed to ensure that the listener experiences the full sound range of the music. The headphones are finished in black and have soft velour ear pads that is said to guarantee wearing comfort even after hours of use.

Finally there is the HD 518, which is the entry-level model into the audiophile world. Its balanced sound image covers the frequency range from 14 to 26,000 Hertz. The ear cups have an anthracite finish. RRP HD 518 $229.95 HD 558 $319.95 HD 598 $439.95