Sennheiser HD 599 SE Review: Solid Sound with a Comfortable Fit

Right out of the box, the Sennheiser HD 599 SE headphones have a straightforward appeal. In a market flooded with flashy designs and too many bells and whistles, these headphones stand out for their simplicity and focus on audio quality. They’re not wireless or noise-canceling, but for a wired headphone, they promise balanced audio and comfort.

After using them for a couple of weeks, I noticed the open-back design might not be for everyone, especially if you're planning to use these in noisy environments. However, for home use or in a quiet setting, they offer a pretty engaging listening experience.

The headphones are lightweight and, despite the plastic build, they feel durable enough for everyday use. While they aren't the lightest headphones I've handled, the weight seems to contribute positively to the overall build quality.

In summary, the HD 599 SE are targeted at folks who value sound quality over additional features. They’re not trying to be everything for everyone, but for those who prioritize sound, they’re a solid choice.

When evaluating the value for money, the Sennheiser HD 599 SE comes across as a decent purchase. At their price point, they offer a balanced sound profile, good comfort, and a solid build. They might not pack in every feature possible, but what they do, they do quite well.

Compared to other headphones in a similar price range, the Sennheiser HD 599 SE stands out for its sound quality. You're not paying extra for wireless capabilities or active noise cancellation, which keeps the cost down. In terms of audio performance, you’re getting more than your money's worth, especially if you’re into high-fidelity listening.

Sure, they lack some modern conveniences, but the detachable cables and replaceable earpads mean you won't be shelling out for a new pair anytime soon. Plus, for those who prioritize comfort, these headphones are a good buy without breaking the bank.

In conclusion, if you’re looking for a cost-effective way to experience high-quality, balanced audio without unnecessary frills, the Sennheiser HD 599 SE offers good value for what you’re paying.

The design of the Sennheiser HD 599 SE is pretty straightforward. They don't scream high-tech or futuristic; instead, they offer a classic over-ear headphone look. The black color gives them a subdued but professional appearance, which is great if you want something that doesn't stand out too much.

The materials used are mostly plastic, which might turn some people off if they're expecting a more premium feel. However, the plastics used seem sturdy enough. I've accidentally dropped them a couple of times (clumsy me), and they survived without a scratch. The earpads are plush and covered in velour, which is a nice touch for comfort, though over time, they might get a bit warm during long listening sessions.

One nifty feature here is the detachable cable. The package includes two cables of different lengths, which is handy if you switch between using them with a computer or a mobile device. The longer cable was great for home use, while the shorter one was more convenient for on-the-go situations.

Overall, the design is functional rather than flashy, which is a plus in my book. It keeps things simple and does the job without unnecessary extras.

Comfort is a big deal when it comes to headphones, especially if you plan on wearing them for extended periods. The Sennheiser HD 599 SE scores pretty well in this department. The velour-covered ear pads are soft and don't clamp down too hard on your head, which is a relief if you're like me and hate that tight, head-squeezing feeling.

I wore these headphones for a few hours straight while working and didn't experience any discomfort, which is more than I can say for many other headphones I've tried. The headband is also nicely padded, distributing the weight evenly, although I did notice that after several hours, they can start to feel a bit warm.

The lightweight design certainly contributes to the comfort factor. At just under 10 ounces, they don't feel heavy, and I didn’t experience any fatigue from wearing them for long stretches. However, I do think the open-back design might be a downside for some. It lets sound in and out, which is great for soundstage but not ideal if you need isolation.

All in all, if comfort is a priority for you and you don't mind the open-back design, these headphones are a solid option.

When it comes to durability, the HD 599 SE headphones hold up pretty well. Despite the mostly plastic construction, the headphones feel robust, and after weeks of use, I haven’t noticed any significant wear and tear. The velour earpads might wear out over time, but replacements are available, which is a plus.

The detachable cables add to the longevity as well. If one cable wears out or breaks, you can easily replace it without having to buy a whole new set of headphones. And the good news is, these cables are relatively cheap and widely available, so it's not much of a hassle.

I've tossed these headphones in my backpack a few times without any protective case (probably not the best habit), and they've come out unscathed each time. The adjustable headband still adjusts smoothly, and there's no sign of the joints loosening up, which is often a problem with plastic headphones over time.

Overall, the Sennheiser HD 599 SE is a pretty durable set of headphones. They're not going to withstand heavy abuse, but for regular, careful use, they should last a good while.

Now let's get into what really matters with headphones: Sound quality. The Sennheiser HD 599 SE delivers quite well here. With a 50-ohm impedance, they don't require a powerful amplifier but can benefit from one if you have it. The sound is balanced, which is a hallmark of Sennheiser products. You'll find that the highs are crisp without being harsh, the mids are well-defined, and the bass is present but not overpowering.

I've used these headphones for various activities like music, gaming, and even some audio work, and they handled each task competently. Music genres like classical and acoustic sound particularly good, with a wide soundstage that makes you feel like you're in the room with the performers. For gaming, they aren't bad either, although they lack the bass punch that some might look for in more immersive games.

If you're looking for headphones to use in a quiet home setting or a studio, you'll appreciate the clarity and detail. However, in noisier environments, the open-back design means you'll pick up on a lot of ambient noise. So, if you're planning to use these on a busy commute, you might want to look elsewhere.

In summary, these headphones are great for audiophiles on a budget who want balanced sound without breaking the bank.