Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Sennheiser HD-400 Pro
An in-depth technical look at Sennheiser’s HD-400 Pro open-back studio headphones
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Spec Sheet
- Open
- Circumaural
- Impedance: 120 Ohm
- Sound pressure level: 110 dB SPL (1 kHz / 1 V RMS)
- Frequency range: 6 – 38.000 Hz
- Total harmonic distortion: < 0.05 % at 1 kHz/90 dB SPL
- Cable routing on one side
- Weight without cable: 240 g
- Incl. 1.5 m cable with 3.5 mm jack plug, 3 m coiled cable with 3.5 mm jack plug and 6.3 mm adapter
Studio Log
| Available since | December 2021 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 530787 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Open |
| Impedance | 120 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 6 Hz – 38000 Hz |
| Adaptor | Yes |
| Replaceable Cable | Yes |
| Colour | Black |
| Max. SPL | 110 dB |
| Sensitivity | 110 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Weight | 240 g |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black |
Demo Footage
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QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction
The Sennheiser HD-400 Pro headphones, released in December 2021, target professional studio engineers and serious audiophiles who require open and natural sound reproduction. Priced at £195, these over-ear, open-back headphones feature a circumaural design, 120 Ohms impedance, and a frequency response spanning 6 Hz to 38,000 Hz. This review assesses their practicality for mixing, mastering, and music enjoyment based on technical specifications and user experiences.
Design and Build Quality
The HD-400 Pro adopts a classic open-back, circumaural form factor, with large oval ear cups designed to fully enclose the ears. This shape is intended to reduce ear fatigue by avoiding pressure on the ear cartilage and provides an ample soundstage. The headphones weigh 240 g without cables, making them reasonably lightweight for extended sessions.
The build utilises robust plastics that ensure durability, although it does not exude premium luxury. A notable feature is the replaceable cable system; the package includes two detachable cables, a 1.5 m straight cable and a 3 m coiled cable, both terminating in 3.5 mm jacks, accompanied by a 6.3 mm adapter. This arrangement caters for different studio setups and facilitates easy replacement in the event of cable damage.
Velour ear pads contribute to comfort, offering breathability and softness over long hours. However, the headphones exert a moderate clamping force, which some users with wider heads or long hair might find slightly restrictive during sessions longer than 90 to 120 minutes. While the build is sturdy and cables firmly socket into the ear cups, the absence of a carrying case is a minor drawback for mobile users.
Sound Performance
The defining characteristic of the HD-400 Pro is its remarkably neutral and linear sonic profile. The wide frequency range ensures extended bass and treble reproduction, with detailed highs that preserve cymbal shimmer and clear, controlled low frequencies. The sensitivity of 110 dB and maximum SPL of 110 dB mean that these headphones deliver ample volume when paired with a suitable amplifier or high-quality audio interface.
Users attest to excellent analytic capabilities, particularly for mixing and mastering. The open-back design provides a spacious soundstage that avoids the enclosed, ‘in-your-head’ effect typical of closed headphones. This expansive soundstage is appreciated in contexts where precise sound source placement and differentiation are critical, even though the very wide stage may slightly impair pinpoint localisation for certain instruments compared to models like the Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro.
The tonal balance favours clarity and accuracy over colouration. Vocals, especially in rock and classical genres, are rendered with a natural timbre, although a subtle dip in some vocal frequencies has been noted; slight equalisation can address this. Electric guitars and acoustic instruments emerge with distinct detail and body, enhancing the mixing experience overall.
Notably, the headphones maintain distinction in busy mixes, revealing intricacies often masked by other designs. The THD remains below 0.05% at 1 kHz and 90 dB SPL, underscoring the precision offered. The open design unavoidably allows sound leakage, which can cause bleed in sensitive microphone setups, making the HD-400 Pro less suitable for recording but ideal for mixing environments.
Comfort and Usability
Comfort is generally rated as good. The velour pads mitigate heat buildup and provide a soft contact surface, helping users endure longer sessions without discomfort. Yet, the somewhat firm clamping force and size should be tested by potential buyers with larger head dimensions or glasses wearers. Cable noise can be transmitted to the left ear more readily, a minor irritation during casual listening but negligible in studio contexts.
The inclusion of two cables enhances versatility. The coiled option is particularly useful in studio scenarios to reduce tangling and provide stretch when required. The headphone connector’s secure fit and replaceability mean maintenance costs remain low over time.
Comparison and Alternatives
The HD-400 Pro closely aligns with the Sennheiser HD-560 S in hardware design and sound signature, though slight differences in ear pad material and clamping force affect the listening experience. The HD-400 Pro is positioned as a studio reference while the HD-560 S targets hi-fi enthusiasts.
Compared to popular alternatives like the Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro or Sony MDR-7506, the HD-400 Pro offers a more neutral, less bass-emphasised response with a wider soundstage and finer detail resolution. It excels for mixing purposes, in contrast to the ‘V-shaped’ frequency response of Beyerdynamic models.
For consumers seeking superior detail and an extended frequency range at a moderate price, the HD-400 Pro competently bridges the gap between budget and high-end studio headphones without significant compromises.
Price and Value
The retail price of approximately £195 positions the HD-400 Pro as an accessible but serious choice for budding and professional studio engineers alike. Given the quality of sound, build, and accessories, its value proposition is strong. While it is not designed for portability or casual consumer use, its natural sound and durability justify its cost for studio applications.
Conclusion
The Sennheiser HD-400 Pro is a commendable studio headphone delivering precise, balanced audio across a wide frequency spectrum. Its open-back, circumaural design offers an immersive but natural listening experience, well-suited for mixing and mastering tasks. Comfort is good, though with a moderate clamping force that may require breaks during extended use. Construction is solid with practical replaceable cables, though a carrying case would have been a welcome addition.
In sum, the HD-400 Pro provides professional-quality sound reproduction and comfort at a competitive price. It stands out as a strong recommendation for users requiring detailed monitoring in controlled environments, particularly when paired with a good headphone amplifier or audio interface. Its main limitation is the open design’s sound leakage, rendering it less optimal for recording but superb for mixing and critical listening.
