Sennheiser HD 599 Open-Back Over-Ear Headphone

The Sennheiser HD 599 is an open-back over-ear headphone that uses 50-ohm drivers and E.A.R. technology to create a spacious, natural sound image for relaxed listening at home. As the flagship of the HD 500 series, it's your gateway into the world of audiophile sound - and be warned, there's rarely a way back from there.

Why the HD 599?

The open-back construction with large ear cups delivers a spacious, almost loudspeaker-like reproduction. Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement (E.A.R.) directs sound into your ear at a slight angle, enlarging the soundstage. At 50 ohms it plays off a phone too, and the soft, replaceable velour pads provide pressure-free comfort for hours.

What you hear

An open, natural sound with fine resolution and a stage that spreads instruments cleanly through the space. The HD 599 doesn't artificially emphasize anything, but lets recordings sound the way they were intended - song by song, you rediscover details.

Who is the HD 599 for?

For a relaxed, enjoyable listening evening at home and for anyone looking for an entry into open, audiophile sound. Straight talk: open means it leaks and doesn't shield - it's the wrong choice for the office, the commute or a shared kitchen. If you prefer something more analytical and deeper in the bass, take a look at the HD 550 or HD 660S2.

Our verdict

A classic with a feel-good factor: spacious, natural and comfortable, plus that timeless ivory look. If your listening room is quiet, the HD 599 brings lasting enjoyment. In Wädenswil we'll tell you honestly whether it suits your system and your room.

Technical data

• Design: over-ear, open-back
• Driver principle: dynamic, E.A.R.
• Colour: Ivory
• Impedance: 50 ohms
• Frequency response: 12 - 38,500 Hz
• Sound pressure level: 106 dB SPL (1 kHz / 1 V RMS)
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): < 0.1 % (1 kHz / 100 dB SPL)
• Ear pads: velour, replaceable
• Weight: 250 g
• Included: HD 599, 3 m cable with 6.3 mm jack, 1.2 m cable with 3.5 mm jack, 6.3-to-3.5 mm adapter

Frequently asked questions

Does the Sennheiser HD 599 work with a smartphone?

Yes. At 50 ohms, the HD 599 plays off a phone, tablet and laptop. For that last bit of dynamics and control it benefits from a headphone amp or DAC/amp, but that's not strictly necessary.

What does the open design mean in everyday use?

Open means a wide, spacious stage and natural sound. In return, the HD 599 lets ambient noise in and sound out. So it belongs in a quiet room at home, not in the office or on the train.

Which cables are included with the HD 599?

Two cables are included: a 3 m cable with 6.3 mm jack for your system, and a 1.2 m cable with 3.5 mm jack for mobile devices. A 6.3-to-3.5 mm adapter is also included, so you can plug into both worlds right away.

Why buy the Sennheiser HD 599 from HD Zürisee?

Because we know which headphones really prove themselves in everyday use - and we say so honestly, even when a model doesn't suit your room. At HD Zürisee in Wädenswil you get advice instead of sales pressure, plus delivery across Switzerland and a point of contact who stays. Call us on +41 44 680 22 00, message us on WhatsApp at 076 534 22 00 (text only, no calls) or email shop@hdzuerisee.ch.

Goes well with

Pair it with our headphone amps, the other headphones and the other models from Sennheiser.