Sennheiser HD 550 Open-Back Headphones

SKU 4318

by Sennheiser

$349.95 - $349.95

$349.95

$349.95 - $349.95

$349.95

The Sennheiser HD 550 is an open-back, over-ear headphone built around a custom 38mm dynamic transducer manufactured at Sennheiser's audiophile production facility in Tullamore, Ireland. It delivers a neutral, balanced sound signature with punchy bass, lifelike midrange clarity, and controlled treble, designed for critical music listening, gaming, monitoring, and everyday high-fidelity use.

The Duofoil laminate diaphragm and lightweight voice coil minimize unwanted resonances for accurate transient response across a 6Hz to 39.5kHz frequency range. The angled driver placement inside the open-back cup creates a natural, expansive soundstage by mimicking how sound is experienced in a real acoustic space rather than firing directly into the ear canal. Total harmonic distortion is rated below 0.2% at 1kHz/90dB SPL.

At 150 ohms impedance, the HD 550 benefits from a dedicated DAC/amp but scales well with a wide range of hi-fi gear. The HD 550 is designed with replaceable parts and a microphone-ready build for long-term ownership. Velour earpads and a comfortable low-clamp headband make it suited to extended listening sessions.

For comparison with other Sennheiser open-backs in the collection, see the Sennheiser HDB 630 for a closed-back wireless audiophile option at a higher price point.

All in-stock orders placed before 5pm EST Monday through Friday ship the same day. Free ground shipping on all orders over $9.99 within the 48 contiguous United States.

Features
Specs
What's Included

38mm Custom Dynamic Driver - Manufactured at Sennheiser's Tullamore, Ireland audiophile facility; angled placement for natural soundstage and spatial imaging
Duofoil Laminate Diaphragm - Reduces unwanted resonances for accurate transient response and extended bass and treble performance
Lightweight Voice Coil - Contributes to transparent, detailed sound reproduction
Open-Back Design - Metal mesh earcups with acoustic foam for controlled bass response and airy, natural treble; eliminates reflections for wide soundstage
Neutral Sound Signature - Punchy bass, neutral mids for voice intelligibility, and open treble; tuned for accuracy rather than consumer-oriented coloration
150-Ohm Impedance - Benefits from amplification; pairs well with headphone amps, audio interfaces, and DAC/amp units
Microphone-Ready Design - Compatible with clip-on and boom microphone accessories for gaming and communication setups
Replaceable Parts - Built for long-term ownership with available spare components
Velour Earpads - Breathable, comfortable for extended listening sessions
Detachable 1.8m Cable - 3.5mm jack included; 6.35mm adapter included for amplifier and interface connections
Lightweight Build - 237g for reduced fatigue during long sessions

Brand: Sennheiser
Model: HD 550
Driver: 38mm dynamic, custom (Tullamore, Ireland)
Diaphragm: Duofoil laminate
Frequency response: 6Hz to 39.5kHz
Impedance: 150 ohms
SPL: 106.7dB at 1mW
THD: <0.2% (1kHz / 90dB SPL)
Weight: 237g
Cable: 1.8m detachable, 3.5mm jack
Includes: 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter, drawstring bag
Design: Open-back, over-ear
Ear pads: Velour
Color: Black

Sennheiser HD 550 headphones
1.8m detachable cable with 3.5mm jack
3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter
Drawstring bag

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Returns & Exchanges

Qualifying products may be returned within 30 days from receipt for a full refund. Please note that hearing aid accessories, hygine items and ear care products cannot be returned. Please CLICK HERE to review our full returns policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the Sennheiser HD 550 need an amplifier?

The HD 550 can be driven by phones, laptops, and audio interfaces but benefits significantly from amplification. At 150 ohms impedance, a dedicated DAC/amp or headphone amplifier will improve dynamics, bass control, and overall headroom. An audio interface with a 6.35mm headphone output is a practical entry point. For higher-end setups, the HD 550 scales well with premium gear including Sennheiser's own HDV 820 headphone amplifier.

How does the HD 550 compare to the HD 560S?

Both are open-back headphones at a similar price point. The HD 560S has a slightly brighter, more forward treble tuning. The HD 550 offers improved bass extension and a more balanced overall frequency response with a toned-down upper midrange. Reviewers consistently note the HD 550 as the more natural and forgiving of the two, while the HD 560S suits listeners who prefer a more analytical presentation.

Is the HD 550 good for gaming?

Yes. The angled driver design creates a wide, natural soundstage that aids positional audio and spatial awareness in gaming. The open-back design provides an immersive listening experience suited to both competitive and casual use. The microphone-ready design allows clip-on or boom microphones to be added. Note that open-back headphones provide no noise isolation and sound will leak to the surrounding environment, making them better suited to quiet home environments than shared spaces.

Are the ear pads and cable replaceable on the HD 550?

Yes. The HD 550 is built with a replaceable cable and replaceable ear pads, and Sennheiser maintains spare parts availability for the HD 500 series. This makes it a better long-term investment than sealed, non-serviceable designs at a similar price point.

What is the difference between the HD 550 and HD 505?

The HD 505 and HD 550 share a similar chassis and driver size. The primary differences are in the acoustic tuning: the HD 550 has more bass below 100Hz and uses a different dust filter baffle design that exposes the driver slightly more, contributing to a marginally different tonal balance. The HD 550 uses silver color accents; the HD 505 uses copper. Both are open-back, 150-ohm designs from the same HD 500 series.