Superlux HD-660 Pro 150 Ohms: detailed listening test

Customer Review Summary

Introduction and Design

The Superlux HD-660 Pro, released in November 2020, is an over-ear, closed-back headphone featuring a 150 Ohm impedance. Priced at around £32, it targets budget-conscious users seeking a monitoring and recording solution. It sports a circumaural design with velour-covered ear cushions and offers passive noise isolation suitable for home studio environments.

Weighing approximately 323 grams, these headphones feel lightweight. The build uses a mix of plastics and metal parts, notably with metal headband support bars resembling more expensive Beyerdynamic models. However, the plastic housing of ear cups and some sharp metal edges around the headband connections indicate cost-saving choices. The cable is a fixed 2-metre length mini-jack terminated with an adapter for 6.3 mm stereo jack. It is not detachable, which may impact durability in the long term.

Comfort and Fit

One of the most frequently praised attributes is the comfort provided by the HD-660 Pro. The large ear cups with soft velour pads effectively envelop the ears without causing discomfort during extended sessions. Users report no hotspots even after hours of continuous wear. The clamping force is moderate, which helps prevent fatigue. The headband is padded but not removable, and the height adjustment requires considerable force, which might necessitate gentle manual bending for a more custom fit.

Sound Quality and Performance

The HD-660 Pro offers a broad frequency response ranging from 10 Hz to 30,000 Hz, powered by 40 mm dynamic drivers with neodymium magnets. The maximum sound pressure level is 92 dB, which is adequate for typical studio or casual listening applications.

Sonically, these headphones present a mildly bright signature with a slight V-shaped curve in their frequency response compared to the older HD-660 model. The bass is present but not overly emphasised, producing a clean, tight low-end that benefits tracking and monitoring tasks. Sub-bass extension is reasonable, and midrange clarity is acceptable though not exceptionally forward.

High-frequency reproduction is clear but may occasionally sound sharp or brittle, particularly on sibilant sounds, which some listeners find fatiguing over long durations. The soundstage is relatively contained, as expected from a closed-back build, but imaging and spatial representation remain effective for the price category. The headphones effectively block out external noise, reducing bleed during recording and tracking, although not entirely eliminating it.

Due to the 150 Ohms impedance, a competent headphone amplifier or audio interface with sufficient output power is recommended for best results, especially when using mobile devices or consumer-level sound cards.

Use Case in Home Studio and Recording

• The HD-660 Pro behaves well for vocal recording and overdubbing, thanks to decent isolation and minimal sound leakage
• They provide a balance between monitoring accuracy and comfort, making them suitable for mixing sessions where budget constraints are a concern
• The slight brightness in upper frequencies can be a double-edged sword, helpful for detail retrieval but potentially tiring without breaks
• Sub-bass and low-mid clarity allow fine discrimination of instrument textures, aiding critical listening

Build Quality and Durability

At this price point, the build quality is impressive but not without compromises. The use of metal in the headband construction adds rigidity, though some edges are rough and may cause discomfort or minor abrasions unless filed down. The headphones have a matte and glossy black finish; the glossy sections attract fingerprints and appear less durable.

The non-detachable cable is a notable limitation, reducing ease of replacement or upgrade. Cable flexibility and strain relief are decent, but the inner wires seem thin, potentially affecting longevity under heavy use. A protective carrying pouch is included, which adds value.

Comparison to Competitors and Final Verdict

When compared to much more expensive models like Beyerdynamic DT-770 Pro, the Superlux HD-660 Pro holds its ground in comfort and general sound reproduction. It does not surpass premium offerings in detail, soundstage breadth, and overall refinement, but considering the price difference (the Beyerdynamic costing around three times more), the HD-660 Pro presents outstanding value for recording, tracking, and casual listening.

For users seeking a budget closed-back headphone with a relatively neutral sound, good sub-bass presence, and extended wear comfort, the HD-660 Pro is a convincing choice. It suits home studio enthusiasts, podcasters, and musicians who need dependable headphones without the premium cost.

Pros:

• Comfortable for long sessions due to soft velour ear pads
• Clear, detailed sound with good low-frequency control
• Effective noise isolation suitable for recording environments
• Sturdy metal headband and included 6.3 mm adapter and carrying pouch
• Excellent value at approximately £32

Cons:

• Non-replaceable cable, limiting repair options
• Plastic parts and sharp metal edges reduce perceived build quality
• Not ideal for critical mixing due to some harshness in upper mids and highs
• Requires amplification for optimal volume and sound

Summary

The Superlux HD-660 Pro 150 Ohms headphones offer a compelling package for budget studio users. Their blend of extended frequency response, comfortable build, and closed-back isolation makes them versatile for tracking, podcasting, and casual monitoring. While they fall short of high-end reference headphones in refinement and durability, they outperform many similarly priced options by a wide margin and present a sensible investment for those who cannot justify expensive alternatives.

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