Sennheiser HD 598 SR vs HD 598
If you’re looking for the best open-back headset that can give you astoundingly accurate and realistic sound, many music lovers would recommend Sennheiser HD 598. However, there are two versions of this product in the market, the original Sennheiser HD 598 and the Sennheiser HD 598 SR. So, what is the difference between Sennheiser HD 598 SR vs HD 598?
Continue reading below to learn more about:
– The size and weight of each model
– Which model that is more comfortable and more durable
– What accessories that are included with each model
– The performance of Sennheiser HD 598 SR vs HD 598
– The warranty of each model
– Which headset that is more recommended for you
Size and Weight
The overall dimensions of these two models are more-or-less similar. The differences are rather marginal. These headsets aren’t very portable because they can’t be folded. However, they are not excessively bulky or heavy, so you can still bring them along when traveling. See also: Sony WH H900N vs WH 1000XM2.
Sennheiser HD 598 SR is slightly bigger and heavier than the original model. This model measures 9.4 inches x 8.1 inches x 4.1 inches and weighs 11.8 oz. Note that this model is only available in the black color.
The original Sennheiser HD 598 version is a bit smaller and lighter. It measures 9.4 inches x 8.1 inches x 3.9 inches and weighs about 9.6 oz. This model is available in two color options, which are black and ivory.
Build Quality
The main difference between Sennheiser HD 598 SR vs HD 598 is the build quality. Sennheiser HD 598 SR comes with an improved headband design and quality over the original Sennheiser HD 598 version.
If you take a look at the headband of the original Sennheiser HD 598 version, you can find a thick padding which seems to be very comfortable. Well, it definitely is soft and comfortable. Unfortunately, it is not very durable. The padding tends to get worn quickly. It will develop cracks over time.
Nevertheless, the headband itself is quite sturdy and durable. The luxurious velour ear pads are really soft and comfortable. They cushion the ears very nicely. The drivers seem to be quite durable, too, as the drivers can last for a long time without compromising the sound quality.
Sennheiser HD 598 SR is the company’s response to address the problem with the original version’s headband padding. You can see that the padding design is very different. The padding now does not have any folded part that may develop cracks over time. The surface is smooth and plain. It will last for a long time. Even so, the padding is still soft and comfortable enough on the top of the head.
This new version still uses luxurious velour ear pads which are incredibly comfy. The frame is still as tough and durable as ever. The grilles on the ear cups are sturdy and durable, too. The audio port on the left ear cup holds the audio cable properly without flimsiness.
Included Accessories
The next difference between Sennheiser HD 598 SR vs HD 598 is the included accessories. It is a nice thing that the new version comes with more accessories than the original version. The additional accessories can be quite handy.
The original Sennheiser HD 598 version only comes with a single 6.33mm audio cable and one 3.5mm adapter. The cable is 3m long. This is quite long, and it will allow some mobility so that you won’t be strictly tethered to the audio device. The cable quality is really good. The cable is made from oxygen-free copper (OFC) and ends in a gold-plated connector that resists rust and oxidation.
Sennheiser HD 598 SR includes two audio cables. The first cable is the 3m audio cable with a 6.3mm straight plug, which is great when you want the best sound quality without any risk of interference. The second cable is the 1.2m audio cable with an in-line remote and 3.5mm straight plug. It is nice when you are listening from a mobile device and you want to have an in-line remote for easy control.
The 6.3mm-to-3.5mm adapter is also included. You can use this adapter when you want to use the cable that doesn’t have an in-line remote on your mobile device. This cable is often preferred by audiophiles because it does not have any risk of interference that may come from an in-line remote, hence ensuring the best sound quality.
Performance
Performance-wise, Sennheiser HD 598 SR and the original Sennheiser HD 598 version are similar. They are open-back headphones, so they won’t provide any noise isolation and they will leak some sound out. The distinctive advantage is that these open-back headphones have lower resonance, so that they can deliver more natural, more realistic sound with superior fidelity.
By combining their 40mm neodymium drivers with Sennheiser’s E.A.R. technology, these headsets can deliver impressive well-balanced sound. The volume levels are decent. They can be quite loud when you want them to be so. They have deep, accurate bass that doesn’t muddle up the mids and highs. Vocals are clear and detailed. The treble is just bright enough without being harsh.
Unlike most other headsets, which pump artificial bass, the bass performance of Sennheiser HD 598 SR and the original Sennheiser HD 598 version sounds natural. There is good separation so that you can easily distinguish different instruments in the music.
Warranty
Both models come with a similar warranty. Each of them is protected by a two-year warranty that covers faults in the materials and workmanship. However, the warranty does not cover normal wear and tear as well as any damage that is caused by an improper usage. The warranty becomes void if the headset is tampered with by an unauthorized person, or if the serial numbers or labels are removed or altered.
Sennheiser HD 598 SR vs HD 598
Conclusion
Between these two models, Sennheiser HD 598 SR is definitely the recommended model. It comes with an improved headband padding, which is now more durable. This model also comes with two audio cables in addition to the adapter. So, you can choose between the pure audio cable and the cable with an in-line remote to suit your particular needs.
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