The Sennheiser HD 550 is an open-back, over-ear headphone built around a custom 38mm dynamic transducer manufactured at Sennheiser's audiophile production facility in Tullamore, Ireland. It delivers a neutral, balanced sound signature with punchy bass, lifelike midrange clarity, and controlled treble, designed for critical music listening, gaming, monitoring, and everyday high-fidelity use.
The Duofoil laminate diaphragm and lightweight voice coil minimize unwanted resonances for accurate transient response across a 6Hz to 39.5kHz frequency range. The angled driver placement inside the open-back cup creates a natural, expansive soundstage by mimicking how sound is experienced in a real acoustic space rather than firing directly into the ear canal. Total harmonic distortion is rated below 0.2% at 1kHz/90dB SPL.
At 150 ohms impedance, the HD 550 benefits from a dedicated DAC/amp but scales well with a wide range of hi-fi gear. The HD 550 is designed with replaceable parts and a microphone-ready build for long-term ownership. Velour earpads and a comfortable low-clamp headband make it suited to extended listening sessions.
For comparison with other Sennheiser open-backs in the collection, see the Sennheiser HDB 630 for a closed-back wireless audiophile option at a higher price point.
All in-stock orders placed before 5pm EST Monday through Friday ship the same day. Free ground shipping on all orders over $9.99 within the 48 contiguous United States.
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Features
38mm Custom Dynamic Driver - Manufactured at Sennheiser's Tullamore, Ireland audiophile facility; angled placement for natural soundstage and spatial imaging
Duofoil Laminate Diaphragm - Reduces unwanted resonances for accurate transient response and extended bass and treble performance
Lightweight Voice Coil - Contributes to transparent, detailed sound reproduction
Open-Back Design - Metal mesh earcups with acoustic foam for controlled bass response and airy, natural treble; eliminates reflections for wide soundstage
Neutral Sound Signature - Punchy bass, neutral mids for voice intelligibility, and open treble; tuned for accuracy rather than consumer-oriented coloration
150-Ohm Impedance - Benefits from amplification; pairs well with headphone amps, audio interfaces, and DAC/amp units
Microphone-Ready Design - Compatible with clip-on and boom microphone accessories for gaming and communication setups
Replaceable Parts - Built for long-term ownership with available spare components
Velour Earpads - Breathable, comfortable for extended listening sessions
Detachable 1.8m Cable - 3.5mm jack included; 6.35mm adapter included for amplifier and interface connections
Lightweight Build - 237g for reduced fatigue during long sessions
Specs
Brand: Sennheiser
Model: HD 550
Driver: 38mm dynamic, custom (Tullamore, Ireland)
Diaphragm: Duofoil laminate
Frequency response: 6Hz to 39.5kHz
Impedance: 150 ohms
SPL: 106.7dB at 1mW
THD: <0.2% (1kHz / 90dB SPL)
Weight: 237g
Cable: 1.8m detachable, 3.5mm jack
Includes: 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter, drawstring bag
Design: Open-back, over-ear
Ear pads: Velour
Color: Black
What's Included
Sennheiser HD 550 headphones
1.8m detachable cable with 3.5mm jack
3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter
Drawstring bag
Brand:SennheiserSKU:4318Tags:Assistive Devices, Bluetooth Headphones & Earphones, Headphones & Earphones