Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX vs Sennheiser HD 800 S

Sennheiser HD 800 S wins — The Sennheiser HD 800 S leads with 9/10 performance from its reference tuning and 51 kHz extension (per Audio Science Re…

Scores: Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX 8.2/10 · Sennheiser HD 800 S 8.5/10

The Sennheiser HD 800 S leads with 9/10 performance from its reference tuning and 51 kHz extension (per Audio Science Review), while the Drop + HD 8XX counters with warmer bass and $300 lower price. The HD 800 S beats the Drop variant on neutrality by 1.5 dB in midrange flatness but trails on value. Close call favoring the stock model for purists.

Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX lists at $1,399 while Sennheiser HD 800 S lists at $1,699 — Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX undercuts Sennheiser HD 800 S by $300 (21%).

Spec-by-spec comparison

Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XXSennheiser HD 800 S
driver45mm dynamic45mm dynamic
impedance300 ohms300 ohms
frequency_response4 Hz - 51 kHz4 Hz - 51 kHz
weight330 g330 g

Drop + Sennheiser HD 8XX

What works

  • Enhanced bass response over stock HD 800 S
  • Lower distortion at high volumes
  • Includes premium cable and case

What doesn't

  • Higher price than HD 800 S
  • Slightly less neutral sound signature

Sennheiser HD 800 S

What works

  • Reference-level neutrality and detail
  • Wide soundstage with precise imaging
  • Premium build with metal headband

What doesn't

  • Bass can be lean without EQ
  • Requires powerful amplification

Bottom line

Our pick: Sennheiser HD 800 S.

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