Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Superlux HD-681 B
Detailed technical test of Superlux HD-681 B’s sound and comfort
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Spec Sheet
- Linear Reproduction
- Semi-open
- Circumaural (full size)
- Dynamic
- Self-adjusting Headband
- Peak SPL: 98 dB
- Impedance: 32 Ohm
- Frequency Range: 10 – 30000 Hz
- Maximum Power: 300 mW
- 2,5m Cable with 3,5 mm Stereo mini-jack
- Weight (including cable): 277 g
- Weight (excluding cable): 235 g
- Including 6,3 mm jack adapter and carry pouch
Studio Log
| Available since | March 2010 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 240434 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Semi Open |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 10 Hz – 30000 Hz |
| Adaptor | Yes |
| Replaceable Cable | No |
| Colour | Black |
| Max. SPL | 98 dB |
| Sensitivity | 98 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Type Of connector | Mini Jack |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Weight | 235 g |
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QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
Introduction to the Superlux HD-681 B
The Superlux HD-681 B is a budget-friendly semi-open, over-ear headphone introduced in 2010 and still popular for its remarkable price-to-performance ratio. With an asking price around £19.50, it aims to provide an accessible option for home studio users, gamers, and casual listeners seeking a neutral and detailed sound signature without breaking the bank.
Design and Build Quality
The HD-681 B features a circumaural design that fully encloses the ears, employing a self-adjusting headband that ensures an adequate fit across various head sizes. Its semi-open system allows some external sounds to pass, unlike closed-back models, resulting in a more natural listening experience though at the expense of sound leakage, which can be an issue in shared or noisy environments.
- Weight: Approximately 235 grams without cable, 277 grams including the 2.5m fixed cable
- Colour: Black
- Cable and Connectors: A non-removable 2.5m cable terminates in a 3.5mm mini-jack, accompanied by a 6.3mm jack adapter. The cable quality is a frequent concern, as it is prone to damage near the plug and challenging to repair due to unusually thin wires
- Accessories: Comes with a carry pouch for transport protection
While the plastic construction shows cost-saving measures, the overall build is surprisingly sturdy given the price. Users report the headband can develop wear and tear over years, but at this cost, replacement remains an economical option.
Sound Performance
The HD-681 B’s 50mm neodymium dynamic drivers deliver a frequency response spanning 10 Hz to 30 kHz, impressively wide for this category. The 32 Ohm impedance and 98 dB sensitivity make it easy to drive from laptops, smartphones, or audio interfaces without requiring an amplifier.
- Bass: Present but not exaggerated, well controlled with audible depth down to 20 Hz, though slightly less defined for demanding bass-focused applications
- Mids: Relatively flat and neutral, enabling clear vocals and instrument separation suitable for casual mixing and monitoring
- Treble: Bright and perhaps a touch sharp, causing listening fatigue over extended periods for some users, but can be tempered via an equaliser
- Stereo Imaging: Good spatial representation and depth, beneficial for gaming and music production tasks involving positional audio cues
- Dynamic Range: Performs well with clean dynamics up to a maximum sound pressure level of 98 dB
The semi-open design enhances natural soundstage perception, making the headphones feel less “in your head” compared to closed-back models. However, the openness also leads to sound leakage which restricts their discreet use in public or recording environments that demand isolation.
Comfort and Ergonomics
Users generally find the HD-681 B quite comfortable, thanks to generous ear pads that fit around the ears without excessive clamping force. The self-adjusting headband distributes pressure evenly. Some mention that original ear cushions made of synthetic leather might cause heat build-up during long usage sessions; replacement with velour pads is a common upgrade to alleviate this.
Overall, the lightweight and ergonomic design makes these headphones suitable for sessions lasting multiple hours with minimal discomfort.
Limitations and Considerations
- Non-removable cable: The fixed cable is often highlighted as the weakest point, with a tendency to break near the connector, compounded by delicate wires that complicate repairs
- Sound leakage: Not suited for recording or environments that require sound isolation; volume must be kept moderate to avoid disturbing others
- Treble harshness: Some find the higher frequencies slightly piercing, which may necessitate EQ adjustments
- Build longevity: Though robust for the price, prolonged use may cause headband or pad wear, requiring replacement parts for sustained use
Use Cases and Summary
The Superlux HD-681 B excels as an inexpensive headphone for casual and project studio use, particularly for tracking playback, quick monitoring, gaming, or general music listening where precision and neutrality are beneficial but absolute fidelity is not essential. Its ease of driving and comfort make it accessible for laptop or mobile device users.
While audiophiles or professional mixing engineers may find it lacking in longevity, isolation, and ultimate sound neutrality, the HD-681 B’s performance is impressive for its sub-£20 price. For anyone looking to balance affordability with decent audio quality and comfort, it represents one of the best options on the market.
Supplementing the headphone with upgraded ear cushions and protecting the cable connection with reinforcement tape can enhance lifespan and wearing comfort, making the HD-681 B an even more appealing budget choice.
