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Sennheiser HD25 Review – Your Gateway To Sonic Bliss?

by Stuart Charles Black
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Greetings mate and Welcome aboard! Stuart Charles here, HomeStudioBasics.com helping YOU make sound decisions, so…

Sennheiser HD25

Price: Check Amazon! | Check Sweetwater! | Check B&H!

In The Box

Sennheiser HD 25 Monitor Headphones

Straight Cable

Limited 2-Year Manufacturer Warranty

Now…

Before we get into the Sennheiser HD 25 Review, grab a snack, sit back and relax because…

You’ve come to the right place!!

Specifications

Build

Sennheiser HD25 Review

Let’s talk about build quality.

Ever wondered what it feels like to hold a piece of industrial machinery in your hands?

Well, wonder no more, because the Sennheiser HD25 is just that; a beautifully brutal work of art.

These cans are built to survive the apocalypse.

Seriously, you could probably hammer nails with these bad boys, and they’d still pump out your favorite tunes with style.

The adjustable headband might look like it came straight from a construction site, but it’s the reason the HD25 can handle all your headbanging, head-spinning, and head-whatever-else-you-do-to-music moves.

And trust me, you’re gonna be head bangin’ like you were at a metal show, friend.

The split headband design might seem a bit strange, but it’s like the headphones are giving you a little hug – keeping them securely on your noggin without squeezing too hard.

Comfort

Sennheiser HD25 Review

Now, comfort might be a bit of a divisive topic when it comes to the HD25.

Picture this: you’ve got these sleek, minimalist ear cups that sit nicely on your ears – just like a pair of stylish earmuffs.

But, here’s the thing – they sit ON your ears, not around them.

If you’re someone who enjoys the gentle embrace of circumaural cushions, this might feel a tad like a high-five from a cactus.

The flip side? They’re lightweight and meant for action.

No head-clamping fatigue after a marathon listening session, and you won’t have sweat pooling around your ears either.

So, while they might not be the plushest headphones in town, they’re your partner-in-crime for all those music-fueled escapades.

Sound

Sennheiser HD25 Review

Hold onto your hats, because the HD25 is about to blow your eardrums away – in a good way, of course.

These headphones deliver a sound that’s as crisp as a fresh celery crunch and as punchy as a kangaroo on an energy drink.

The mids are clear, the highs are sparkling, and the bass – oh boy, the bass – it hits you like a surprise party confetti cannon.

Whether you’re into classical symphonies that make you feel like you’re floating on a cloud, or bass-heavy beats that make you want to dance like no one’s watching, the HD25s are up for the challenge.

They’re like musical chameleons, adapting to whatever genre you throw their way.

Putting on the HD 25 and listening was like someone took a veil off of the music, allowing it to finally breathe a little and expose what was going on.

The sound that the 25s give off is just astounding at times.

There was so much clarity and detail that I started hearing subtle things that I hadn’t noticed before with other headphones.

Stuff like the echoes in the background, faint noises, instrument sounds that I missed, guitar plucks, and that sound that your fingers make when you change chords.

It’s a treat to be able to hear the music in all its rawness.

Keep in mind that these babies aren’t always going to sound fabulous.

Because they are so aggressive, they tend to become very fatiguing after a while.

Other than that, the sound is engaging, lively, and hits hard. So get ready for the time of your life!

Sennheiser HD25 Review

Pros

  • Robust Build: The HD25 headphones are built to withstand the apocalypse – they’re durable, sturdy, and can take a beating.
  • Crystal Clear Sound: These headphones deliver an impressive audio experience with crisp mids, sparkling highs, and punchy bass that can cater to a wide range of genres.
  • Efficient Amplification: You won’t need a degree in audio engineering to power these babies. They sound great with a variety of devices, from smartphones to professional audio setups.
  • Noise Isolation: The excellent noise isolation ensures an immersive listening experience, shutting out the world and allowing you to get lost in your music.
  • DJ’s Dream: The HD25s are a staple in the DJ community for a reason – their solid sound quality, comfortable fit, and excellent noise isolation make them perfect for the booth.
  • Detachable Cables (HD25 Plus): The HD25 Plus model comes with detachable cables for added convenience and easier replacement.
  • Iconic Design: The minimalist and industrial design is not just a look – it’s a statement. These headphones have a timeless appeal that’s recognized by audio enthusiasts worldwide.

Cons

  • Limited Soundstage: The HD25’s soundstage might not be as expansive as some other headphones, which could impact the perception of spatial audio.
  • Cable Locking Mechanism (HD25 Plus): Some users have found the cable locking mechanism on the HD25 Plus a bit finicky, requiring practice to attach and detach cables smoothly.
  • Noise Isolation Overload: The strong noise isolation can be a drawback when you need situational awareness, such as when walking on busy streets.
  • Premium Price: These headphones don’t come cheap. The premium quality and brand recognition come at a cost that might be a bit steep for budget-conscious consumers.
  • Earpad Discomfort: The on-ear design could lead to discomfort during prolonged listening sessions, especially if you prefer headphones that fully enclose your ears.

Amp/DAC requirements

Sennheiser HD25 Review

The Sennheiser HD25 headphones are renowned for their efficient design, which means they can be easily driven by a variety of devices without necessarily requiring a dedicated amplifier (amp) or digital-to-analog converter (DAC).

However, whether you need an amp/DAC for the HD25s depends on a few factors and your personal preferences.

Basic Device Compatibility:

The HD25 headphones have a low impedance (typically around 70 ohms) and high sensitivity, making them quite efficient at converting electrical signals into sound.

This means they can be powered sufficiently by devices like smartphones, laptops, portable music players, and even entry-level audio interfaces.

You can plug them in and start enjoying your music without any problems.

Enhanced Sound Quality:

While the HD25 headphones can work well with basic devices, you might find that investing in a quality portable headphone amplifier or DAC may enhance your listening experience.

An external amp/DAC can provide a cleaner and more powerful signal, but actual sound differences from amp to amp, in my mind, are rather negligible.

This improvement might be especially noticeable if you’re an audiophile or if you’re used to high-end audio equipment.

Situational Factors:

Here are a few situations where using an amp/DAC with the HD25s could be beneficial:

  • High-Quality Audio Files: If you frequently listen to high-resolution audio files (such as FLAC or DSD), a dedicated amp/DAC can help you make the most of the added detail and nuance in those files.
  • DJing and Studio Use: DJs and audio professionals who use the HD25s for mixing and monitoring might benefit from an amp/DAC setup. This ensures accurate sound reproduction and consistent monitoring levels.
  • Noisy Environments: In noisy environments, having a bit of extra power from an amp/DAC can help you maintain optimal sound quality without having to crank up the volume on your source device.
  • Improving Weak Source Outputs: Some smartphones or laptops might have weaker headphone outputs that can limit the HD25’s potential. An amp/DAC can provide the necessary power boost.

Budget Considerations:

It’s important to note that investing in an amp/DAC is an additional cost.

If you’re on a budget and just want a solid listening experience, the HD25s will work fine without external equipment.

Genre Pairing

Sennheiser HD25 Review

Electronic/Dance Music:

The HD25’s punchy bass response and clear mids make it an excellent choice for electronic and dance music.

Whether you’re grooving to deep house, getting hyped with dubstep, or vibing to trance, these headphones will keep you moving to the beat with their energetic and dynamic sound signature.

Hip-Hop and Rap:

The HD25’s strong bass presence lends itself well to hip-hop and rap tracks, delivering the low-end thump that’s essential for these genres. You’ll feel the impact of the beats and the clarity of the vocals, immersing you in the rhythm and flow of the music.

Rock and Alternative:

If you’re a fan of rock, alternative, or indie music, the HD25’s balanced sound profile ensures that you’ll enjoy both the driving guitar riffs and the intricate vocal melodies.

From classic rock anthems to modern indie tracks, these headphones capture the raw energy and emotion of the genre.

Metal:

The HD25’s energetic sound profile is a great match for metal music, allowing you to enjoy the fast-paced guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and powerful vocals that define the genre.

You’ll get a taste of the intensity and aggression of metal without sacrificing clarity.

In fact, I firmly believe the HD25 was made for metal specifically, but that’s just like, my opinion man.

The following genres still work, but not as well:

  • Jazz & Blues
  • Acoustic And Folk
  • Classical
  • R&B and Soul

Why The HD25 works so well with harder genres

Sennheiser HD25 Review

Sound Signature and Bass Emphasis:

The HD25 headphones are known for their energetic and punchy sound signature, with a focus on the lower frequencies.

This makes them particularly well-suited for genres that benefit from a strong bass presence, such as electronic, hip-hop, rock, and metal.

In harder genres, where impactful basslines and intense drum beats are key elements, the HD25’s emphasis on the low-end can create an immersive and exciting listening experience.

Dynamic Range and Instrumentation:

Harder genres often feature densely layered instrumentation and intricate arrangements.

The HD25’s dynamic and energetic sound profile can help instruments like electric guitars, synthesizers, and heavy drums cut through the mix with clarity and impact.

The headphones excel at reproducing the raw energy and power that are characteristic of these genres.

Intense Vocal Delivery:

Genres like rock and metal often involve powerful and aggressive vocal performances.

The HD25’s ability to capture the intensity and emotion in these vocals, along with their strong bass response, can enhance your connection to the music and bring out the raw emotion in the lyrics.

Why The HD25 Doesn’t Work As Well For Other Genres

Sennheiser HD25 Review

Limited Soundstage and Nuance:

Where the HD25 might not be as ideally suited for lighter genres is in its relatively limited soundstage and slightly forward presentation.

Lighter genres like Jazz, Classical, Acoustic, Folk, R&B, and Soul often rely on subtlety, nuance, and a wide soundstage to reproduce the complex interplay between instruments and create a more immersive and detailed listening experience.

The HD25’s design, with its on-ear ear cups and more focused soundstage, might not fully capture the spatial characteristics and delicate nuances of these genres.

Comfort and Extended Listening:

Lighter genres often involve longer and more contemplative listening sessions.

The on-ear design of the HD25 headphones, while lightweight, might not provide the same level of comfort as over-ear headphones, especially during extended periods of use.

The HD25’s clamping force and on-ear pads could potentially lead to discomfort or “ear fatigue” over time.

In other words, they tend to dig into your lobes and it hurts after a short-ish timeframe.

Genre Preference and Personal Taste:

Ultimately, the preference for specific genres and the choice of headphones are highly subjective and depend on personal taste.

While the HD25s may not be the first choice for lighter genres, some listeners might still enjoy their energetic presentation even with Jazz, Classical, Acoustic, Folk, R&B, and Soul music.

It’s worth noting that individual preferences can vary widely, and what works for one person might not work for another.

Consensus/Conclusion

Sennheiser HD25 Review

In the exhilarating world of headphones, the Sennheiser HD25 stands tall as a true musical warrior, armed with its dynamic sound signature and punchy bass prowess.

With genres that pack a powerful punch – think electronic, rock, hip-hop, and metal – these headphones are your trusty sidekick, ready to blast your eardrums into audio ecstasy.

The intensity of electric guitars, pulsating basslines, and aggressive vocals? Oh yeah, the HD25 eats that stuff for breakfast!

But wait, there’s a twist in this sonic tale.

As our HD25 hero charges forward, it encounters gentler lands like Jazz, Classical, Acoustic, Folk, R&B, and Soul.

Alas, here’s where the plot thickens.

The HD25’s energetic nature and tight soundstage might not be the ideal match for the delicate intricacies and spacious symphonies of these lighter genres.

It’s like bringing a race car to a garden tea party – a bit too much zoom for the room.

And then there’s comfort – the valiant HD25, though lightweight and fierce, might not be the comfiest companion for those marathon listening sessions under the stars.

The Bottom Line

If you’re the kind of music lover who revels in heart-pounding beats, electrifying riffs, and vocals that roar like a rock ‘n’ roll lion, the Sennheiser HD25 is your jam.

DJs, electronic enthusiasts, and rock rebels, prepare to have your musical souls ignited.

But if your heart thrives on the mellower musings of Jazz’s sax serenades, Classical’s grand symphonies, or the heart-soothing embrace of Acoustic, Folk, R&B, and Soul, you might want to keep your options open.

The HD25’s ferocity, while admirable, might not provide the nuanced journey these genres demand.

In the end, like any great character, the Sennheiser HD25 headphones have their strengths and quirks, their shining moments and limitations.

So, dear audiophile, the choice is yours – embark on a bass-thumping odyssey or drift away on gentler melodies.

The HD25 is your loyal companion, ready to rock, roll, or serenade you on your unique musical quest.

Closing Thoughts

Sennheiser HD25 Review

If you are that bass head or just crave the slam and impact, then elevate your music game with the Sennheiser HD25 headphones.

Delivering powerful sound, exceptional durability, and versatile genre compatibility, these headphones are your passport to a dynamic and immersive listening experience.

Whether you’re a DJ, audiophile, or casual listener, the HD25s offer clarity and punch that make every beat count.

Upgrade your audio journey today!

Learn More:

 


Well, that’s about it for today my friend! I hope you’ve enjoyed this Sennheiser HD 25 Review and came away with some valuable insight.

Questions? Comments? Requests? Did I miss the mark on something? Please Contact me!!

What do you think about these bad boys? I would love to hear from you. Until next time…

All the best and God bless,

 

 

-Stu

[Xtr@Ba$eHitZ]

Can’t decide which headphones to purchase? Interested in a complete buyers guide outlining over 40 of the best options on the market? Click on over to the best audiophile headphones to learn more!!

Be sure to also check out my Reviews and Resources page for more helpful and informative articles!

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Sennheiser HD 25

4.3

Build

5.0/5

Sound

4.6/5

Comfort

3.5/5

Soundstage

4.0/5

Pros

  • Amazing detail retrieval
  • Extremely durable
  • Phenomenal Bass extension and fun factor
  • Amazing for Metal and Rock

Cons

  • Can be harsh/shrill at times in treble area
  • Uncomfortable after a short time

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14 comments

Peter September 2, 2020 - 8:18 pm

Hi Stuar, I have read almost all of your reviews and I really like your honesty. I need your help to be able to choose wisely. I am looking for closed headphones and I really like this hd 25 model. i want a headset with lots of detail and clarity for under $ 200 and i have seen other models like the akg 553 and dt 770. You who have had the opportunity to listen to the 3 models which you think have a more revealing sound full of details and if the difference is minimal with the other models. If the difference between the 3 models is minimal, I will buy the most economical one. I listen to classic rock and vocal jazz and jazz fusion

Reply
Stuart Charles Black September 11, 2020 - 3:23 am

Hey man! Thank you for the love! Yeah the HD25 hands down lol. The other 2 are good, but if you’re looking for loads of detail and clarity, the HD25 is probably the best of those 3 even though I love the K553 and 770. 770 is more for bass heads due to it’s V-shape. The K553 is probably my second choice behind the HD25. It sounds super open with a great Soundstage.

If you like a more neutral sort of detailed sound, I would say go with the 553. But the HD25 is super lively, intense, and exciting. It’s almost like doing cocaine or something (not that I know anything about that heheheheh). No really I don’t. Haha. But it’s super in your face and makes you want to bang your head. It’s my go to headphone for metal actually.

What kind of Classic Rock and jazz fusion are you into? I really like both of those genres a lot. If you listen to Plini, Chon, Animals as leaders, or anything similar (Prog/Jazz fusion), I would go ahead and hit purchase on the HD25 like now. Lol. It really is a match made in heaven. Plus they’re the most rugged durable headphones I’ve ever owned.

What do you think?

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Peter September 11, 2020 - 8:31 pm

Hey man thanks for your reply !! The hd 25s are my favorites of that group, I listen to rock music from The Beatles / Genesis / Metallica / Ozzy Osbourne / Pink Floyd / Rush / Black Sabbath / Muse Radiohead etc and jazz fusion Djabe / Yazz ahmed / Bob Holz / Jon Hassell and listen Also jazz vocal Dianna Krall / Rebbeca Pidgeon. As I said before I look for a high resolution (listen to details and nuances in the music hidden with a good separation of instruments). A few years ago I was perplexed when a friend played Across The universe of the beatles (Past Masters version, Volume Two) and I could hear at the beginning of the song all the sounds of nature, man that song had been heard at least 50 times but never I had heard all those sounds that I could hear in your hifi sound system, basically that is what I look for in the headphones for those details sounds that a normal system cannot bring to light, I am looking for a headset that does. and durability is necessary because I had to make many sacrifices to be able to collect 150 $ hahaha and it would be very painful if they break in 2 years.In summary I am looking for great clarity and details to be able to get all the hidden information of a song and make it durable, I think the hd 25 meets the requirements. I like the akg k553 a lot but recently the akg k371 came out which seems to be the same akg k553 but without that great soundstage and is worth 150 although the k553 is better built and has better soundstage. but yes the hd 25 can provide me with what I am looking for in a satisfactory way that will be the one that I will buy

Reply
Stuart Charles Black September 28, 2020 - 3:03 pm

Hey man! Did you decide on the HD25? Need some more guidance? Let me know! I know that feeling all too well of hearing things you never noticed in songs before. That just recently happened to me with the HIFIMAN DEVA playing Aphex Twin’s “Windowlicker”, a song I’ve been listening to since 2005. Can you believe that? I heard something towards the end that I’ve never heard in all my life, and I was just flabbergasted when it came through the headphones. You can imagine how many times I’ve heard the song over a 15 year period, and how shocked I was. I know you kind of wanted a closed back though and the wired DEVA is a tad outside of budget at around $219. Even so, if you could stretch just a bit, or even get something like a HIFIMAN 2020 Revison 400i for right at budget (around $169 – price subject to change), I think that or the HD25 is still the way to go. The 400i is going to be more open sounding for you.

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Peter September 5, 2020 - 4:03 pm

Hi Stu. I live in a country with a deep economic crisis (Venezuela) and buying a headphone for the vast majority is a luxury they cannot afford. If I buy I will not be able to return it if I do not like it. that’s why I want to be sure of what I’m going to buy. what I need is good sound quality along with good durability. I want a clean sound where I can hear a chorus of a beatles song and be able to listen to each voice separately to give an example. clarity and detail along with good durability. if it is a closed headset even better but it is not strictly necessary. my budget is 150-170 dollars. so far my options are senn hd 25/ beyer dt 770/ ath m50x and in the open ones senn hd 559 /senn hd 599/ senn 58X/ grade sr80e and fidelio x2. I really like the hd 25 for its design and durability and price but I don’t know how clear and detailed it will be compared to the hd 599, the ath m50x or the fidelio x2. I am looking for the best high resolution sound that I can buy with that budget (approximately 150) and that guarantees durability and that I can use directly from my smartphone.

Reply
Stuart Charles Black September 11, 2020 - 2:16 pm

Hey man! Just replied to your other comment. Are you still considering the others outside of the HD25, DT770, and K553? Gosh considering your criteria: High res sound, around $150, and guaranteed durability while being able to play from a smartphone? That’s HD25 all the way.

Let me know though about the others and if you’re still considering them.

Reply
Matthew January 18, 2021 - 8:50 pm

The DT 1350s are great to compare with these. Unfortunately Beyer doesn’t make them anymore. Not sure how the Aventhos compare, but I thought their other portable, the T51i, didn’t sound the same (like a monitor), but was voiced for pop music. The 1350s are more refined and beautiful sounding and higher quality, I think, except with two pairs of mine that I bought through eBay the driver would end up dying (maybe I was listening too loud?) and that hasn’t happened yet with my HD 25s. So some German headphones are “built like a tank” but it might be the all plastic ones rather than the metal ones (Beyer), weirdly enough. Or I just didn’t luck out. Anyway if you ever come across them be sure to take a listen, if they have the facelift pads (that are a bit bigger than the original, the ones that mushroom out a bit from the edges of the cups). Those seal better on the ear. It has really great bass that extends perfectly down flat like a planar magnetic. Maybe it is a little dark and mellow sounding compared to the Sennheiser which is more upfront and lively and drier sounding (less colored?)

Reply
Stuart Charles Black January 20, 2021 - 4:24 am

Hey Matthew! Thanks for the great comment. I had always wanted to do a head to head between those 2 headphones but never got the chance. It’s unfortunate they don’t make them anymore. The HD25 is seriously one of the most intense and headbanging good times I’ve ever had with a product. It’s definitely my go-to metal headphone. I would like to get another one at some point (long story lol). You’re def right about the HD25 (upfront and lively is right on). People used to really rave about the 1350 IIRC.

Reply
Steven October 28, 2022 - 4:11 am

Hi
My question is, what is the CLOSEST thing to this model
HD 25-13 II – 600 Ohm impedance with three-meter cable and straight connector.
They discontinued this model years ago, and mine just died after many years of use. I only buy Sennheiser for headphones, so I bought the HD 25 70 Ohm impedance to replace it awhile back, “just in case.”
Well that sounds nothing like the HD 25-13 II whatsoever. Obviously different specs, but it lacks everything the HD 25-13 II had. You can’t even get replacement cables for this model anymore, or earpads for it. Is there any model that has the same specs as the HD 25-13 II? Even NON-Sennheiser, because I just cannot work with the HD-25. Its capacity to handle lows and highs are just limited. I’ll be second guessing every mix I do, compensating for what I cannot detect. Where the HD 25-13 II had a very “open” response to audio, the HD-25 is completely compressed. It makes it sound like everything is jam-packed together.

Help? Before I Ebay with abandon?

Reply
Stuart Charles Black October 28, 2022 - 2:43 pm

I feel your pain man!

There are way too many HD25 models. I think the one I owned was the HD25-1 II. I know that probably doesn’t help much, but it’s the only frame of reference I have here. As for your question, I don’t think so. I think all but 2 of the newer models have that 70 Ohm impedance; the other 2 are 60 (HD 25 light), and 65 (HD25 SP II).

The only one that has the 600 Ohm impedance is the one you’re referring to. I’m afraid eBay is probably going to be your best COA. For instance, I got a K240M 600 Ohm from eBay and that’s pretty much the only site they’re still available on. I think your model is probably similar in that regard.

Reply
Ian August 5, 2023 - 9:22 pm

You should definitely check out the German Maestro GMP 8.35. Gothic/Symphonic metal sounds incredible on these headphones.

Reply
Stuart Charles Black August 15, 2023 - 6:35 pm

Noted my friend! Any cool recommendations for the genre you mentioned?

Reply
Ian August 26, 2023 - 6:39 pm

My headphone experience is quite limited so there’s not much else I can recommend you, not to mention your collection is likely 10x the size of what I used to have haha.
I used to have a modest collection that comprised of mid-fi models, some of which you’ve already reviewed: Grado Sr325is; Beyerdynamic DT880 250 ohms; PSB M4U1. Besides these wellknown brands, I also usually took an interest in the Chifi budget stuff such as Superlux; Takstar; Somic, which I can acquire quite cheaply since I live right next to China. I used to own the Samson Sr950 which is supposed to be manfactured by Superlux. For 50 bucks, its sound was so good, albeit a little light on bass, so much so that I decided to sell both the Grado and Beyer.
Right nown, apart from the GMP 8.35, which I acquired for a mere 20 bucks (best deal in my journey so far!), I also have the Somic P7, a very obscure headphone but IMHO can well compete with some popular names like the ATH M50 or Sony V6. Just for your information, Somic is the OEM for Status Audio CB1 and some other Amazon brands.
In the nearfuture, if my finance allows, I would like to obtain the Beyerdynamics DT1990. For the time being, I will simply satisfy my hobby thirst by reading online reviews, including yours =).

Reply
Stuart Charles Black August 27, 2023 - 5:58 pm

Haha. You read my reviews and mine only!!!! JK. Man, I really don’t want a headphone collection but somehow I always freaking have one LOL. It was cool back in the day, but now that I review stuff all the time, I always end up having way too much crap in this apartment. In fact, it’s gotten so out of control that my laundry room has literally become a warehouse. NO joke, I named it Stu’s Warehouse and it’s all organized with endless boxes xD

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