Sennheiser HD 505 review: The new superstar in the wired headphones market?

India Today

18-06-2025

I have a habit to focus more on the beats and rhythm of the music, rather than the lyrics. So, whenever I pick up any headphones, I make sure every thud of the song reaches me. For instance, when I'm looking to boost my energy, I go straight for an upbeat track—regardless of what the lyrics are saying. And in this mission, the Sennheiser HD 505 became my comrade.advertisementThe HD 505 Copper edition is Sennheiser's brand-new premium wired headphones – yes, they still exist – in India. Priced at Rs 27,990, these headphones feature an open-back design, which is complemented by a synthetic leather headband for added comfort. They build on the legacy of the HD 500 series and pack a specially engineered 120-ohm transducer that is billed to deliver enhanced audio performance.
Sennheiser says the HD 505 are truly special and are particularly geared at audiophiles and gamers. We've put them through the paces and here's what we found.Sennheiser HD 505: Design and fit
Headphones that work perfectly with spectacles are difficult to find. Most of the time, you end up struggling to find the right fit, or worse, get a headache with all the stress. The HD 505 headphones are different. They are very comfortable. The headband is wrapped in soft synthetic leather and has a generous amount of padding. It is built in a way that it doesn't suffocate or feel like an excess burden on extended use. They are surprisingly lightweight too, as long as you don't go comparing with wireless options. Any such comparisons are futile and frankly, unnecessary because these headphones are for a different set of people altogether.
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The open-back pads are also very soft and breathable, which is a lifesaver in India's soaking heat. They also compress just enough to keep things comfy even for us glasses-wearers—no awkward pressure on the frames.The cushion is not the only detail that gives the Sennheiser HD 505 headphones a premium look, the open back ear cups and the copper detailing contribute greatly. The external design gives the impression that actual speakers have been mounted directly on the outside of the earcups. And the copper detailing is just a cherry on the top.Sennheiser HD 505: Sound qualityThe headphones are built around Sennheiser's in-house 120-Ohm angled transducers. These drivers are designed to deliver a frequency range from 12Hz to 38.5kHz. The result? A beautifully balanced, rich listening experience with heaps of detail and depth. During the review period, I listened to all songs from mostly all genres, catering to different pitches. Unlike your basic headphones, the Sennheiser HD 505 catch every beat and thud of the song, no matter how mellow the tune is. On the other hand, the loud and deep bass songs echoed in my ear as if I was at a concert. From Ed Sheeran's Sapphire to Imagine Dragons' Believer and Diljit Dosanjh's Ikk Kudi, with HD 505, every song made me tap my feet.
Of course, with no noise isolation, you'll want to enjoy them somewhere relatively quiet. But hey, a good pair of wired headphones deserves a good listening spot.So, if you're planning to pop on the new Sennheiser HD 505 and head to a library, or a caf, think twice. These are open-back headphones, which means two things. First, the music will leak out, audible to anyone within earshot. And second, every bit of outside noise is going to stroll right in. That said, indoors is exactly where the HD 505 shines, which is the point of these headphones anyway.
Sennheiser HD 505: VerdictPriced at Rs 27,990 in India, the HD 505 headphones are not exactly what you can call budget-friendly, especially if you're a casual listener just looking for something to pair with your phone on the daily commute. But for audiophiles and studio professionals, they're a solid, reliable pick with all the hallmarks of Sennheiser's engineering finesse. For those who value high-end sound, they offer crisp, detailed, and beautifully balanced acoustics. Their design is both smart and trendy.There's a market for this type of stuff. It doesn't matter how big or small it is. And in that market, these headphones are nothing short of being, a superstar.