Sennheiser HD 820 Over-Ear Closed-Back Headphones

Discover the unmatched combination of closed-back isolation and open-back spaciousness with the Sennheiser HD 820 — a groundbreaking headphone that redefines what’s possible in a closed design. Featuring Sennheiser’s 56mm Ring Radiator dynamic drivers and Concave Gorilla Glass reflectors, the HD 820 delivers a wide, natural soundstage with stunning transparency and detail. Ideal for critical listening in shared or non-treated spaces, it provides deep bass, silky treble, and pinpoint imaging without the typical constraints of closed headphones.

Each element of the HD 820 is meticulously engineered — from its acoustic absorber system that reduces resonances, to the precision-matched impedance cables that ensure signal integrity. Crafted for long sessions, it offers plush microfiber padding, a vibration-damped metal headband, and a robust frame. Built in Ireland and developed in Germany, the HD 820 is more than an audiophile headphone — it’s a technical achievement designed for high-end reference listening. Compatible with 6.3mm, 4.4mm balanced, and XLR4 outputs, and an ideal pairing for Sennheiser’s HDV 820 amplifier, it brings immersive fidelity to a closed-back design.

Specifications

• Transducer Principle: Dynamic, Closed-Back
• Driver Type: 56mm Ring Radiator
• Impedance: 300 Ohms
• Frequency Response: 6 – 48,000 Hz (-10 dB), 12 – 43,800 Hz (-3 dB)
• Sound Pressure Level (SPL): 103 dB at 1 kHz, 1V
• Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): 0.02% (1 kHz, 1 Vrms)
• Ear Coupling: Circumaural (Around the Ear)
• Headband Design: Metal with inner damping element
• Ear & Headband Padding: Microfiber
• Cable Connectors: 6.3 mm / 4.4 mm Pentaconn / XLR4
• Cable Length: 3 meters
• Weight (Without Cable): 360 g
• Build Origin: Developed in Germany, manufactured in Ireland

Expanded Key Features List

• Closed-Back Design with Open-Back Sound: Unique Gorilla Glass reflectors simulate spatial depth for an immersive, natural soundstage.
• 56mm Ring Radiator Transducer: Sennheiser's flagship driver delivers unmatched resolution, low distortion, and extended frequency response.
• Concave Glass Acoustic Reflectors: Reduce resonances and optimize spatial imaging for transparent sound reproduction.
• Acoustic Absorber System: Reveals micro-details by eliminating standing waves and unwanted reflections inside the earcups.
• 300 Ohm Impedance: Designed for optimal performance with high-end amplifiers and studio gear.
• Balanced & Versatile Connectivity: Includes multiple cable options (6.3 mm, 4.4 mm balanced, XLR4) for flexible source matching.
• Luxurious Comfort for Extended Listening: Plush microfiber earpads and damped headband offer fatigue-free comfort.
• Hand-Assembled in Ireland: Precision-built with German engineering for audiophile reliability and performance.

Q&A Section

Q: How does the HD 820 compare to the HD 800S?
A: The HD 820 offers a closed-back design with deeper bass and smoother treble, while the HD 800S features an open-back design with greater top-end resolution and a more analytical sound signature.

Q: What makes the HD 820 unique among closed-back headphones?
A: It uses concave Gorilla Glass reflectors and Ring Radiator drivers to deliver a soundstage similar to open-back models, minimizing the boxed-in feel typical of closed designs.

Q: Is the HD 820 suitable for studio monitoring?
A: Yes, thanks to its precision imaging, extended frequency response, and low distortion, it is excellent for high-end monitoring and mastering in controlled environments.

Q: Does the HD 820 require a headphone amplifier?
A: While it can be driven by some powerful devices, the 300-ohm impedance makes it best paired with a high-quality headphone amplifier for full performance.

Q: Is the HD 820 comfortable for long listening sessions?
A: Absolutely. Its microfiber pads, vibration-damped metal headband, and ergonomic design make it ideal for extended wear.

Q: What types of cables are included?
A: The HD 820 includes three cables: 6.3mm single-ended, 4.4mm Pentaconn balanced, and XLR4 balanced for maximum source compatibility.

Q: Where is the HD 820 made?
A: The HD 820 is developed in Germany and hand-assembled in Sennheiser’s state-of-the-art facility in Ireland.

Q: What accessories come with the HD 820?
A: The package includes headphones, connection cables, a USB flash drive with frequency response curve and documentation, a microfiber cloth, and a premium storage case.