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Picked up the HD 550 on sale for $200 and finds it better than the HD 560S, with more bass, spot-on treble and a great soundstage; the best they have used for gaming. Not as warm as expected and still getting used to the clean mids, but extremely happy with it.
“The bass with these HD550's is better than the 560S, the treble is just spot on, listening to Stop Making Sense now, which is bright digital live music recording, the treble is splashy with fantastic drum cymbals”
Tried the HD 550 as a replacement for an HD 598 and liked its clear sound, good soundstage and fit, but returned it: game dialogue sounded buried under loud effects, and a fan beside the desk caused a buzz in the left ear. Otherwise rates it above the HD 490, 599 and 660S2 and DT 900 PRO X they tried.
“I use AC/Fan often to the left of my desk and i found the hd 550 was letting through a buzz / reacting sound in the left ear vs all the other headphones i;ve tried, annoyed me too much”
Loves the HD 550 and recommends it widely as an affordable open-back: great tuning, very good comfort, easy to drive, and as good for gaming as for music.
“recommend them left and right to people who are looking for a still somewhat affordable open-back headphone. Great tuning, very good comfort, pretty easy to drive and just as good for music as they are for gaming, imo.”
Bought the HD 550 with their own money after more than a decade with an HD 598 SE, and compared it with the HD 505 SE, HD 560S and HD 600 series. Finds it open, natural and balanced, with excellent imaging, air and comfort for both music and gaming, though vocals sit further back than on older Sennheisers; scores it 8.5/10.
“Bass has enough presence to give music some weight. Vocals are clear without being pushed into my face. Treble has detail and air without constantly trying to get my attention.”