Sennheiser HD 550 Open-Back Headphones

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

 

• 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

Specs

 

• 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

What's Included 

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