For decades, the Sennheiser HD 500 series has been synonymous with high-fidelity audio at accessible prices. The newly launched Sennheiser HD 505 continues this legacy, combining classic open-back acoustics with modern refinements. We tested the first production unit to uncover how this headphone delivers its promise of pure, immersive sound.

Hand holding Sennheiser HD 505 headphones with open-back ear cups, highlighting the minimalist design and natural soundstage in a cozy indoor setting with a plant in the background.

Design & Comfort: Classic Aesthetics Meet Modern Ergonomics

The Sennheiser HD 505 inherits the iconic design language of its predecessors. The open-back ear cups feature minimalist branding with subtle gold accents, blending retro elegance with contemporary simplicity. A leather-wrapped headband and plush velour ear pads ensure premium tactile comfort.

Detailed view of the Sennheiser HD 505's leather-wrapped headband with the Sennheiser branding in gold, highlighting the plush velour ear pads and the adjustable headband's modern ergonomic design against a dark background.

Weighing just 237 grams, the HD 505 feels lightweight despite its robust build. The adjustable headband (5cm extension range) and memory foam padding adapt seamlessly to various head shapes, minimizing pressure during extended listening sessions. Included accessories are practical: a 1.8-meter detachable cable with a swappable 6.35mm/3.5mm jack and a sleek carrying pouch.

Acoustic Performance: Precision Engineered for Natural Sound

At the heart of the HD 505 lies a custom 120-ohm transducer, manufactured at Sennheiser’s high-fidelity facility in Tullamore, Ireland. This driver minimizes distortion (<0.2% THD) and delivers a frequency response of 12Hz–38.5kHz, capturing nuances from sub-bass rumble to crystalline highs.

The open-back design and angled transducer placement create a spacious soundstage, ideal for classical and acoustic genres. Integrated acoustic foam in the ear cups absorbs excess resonance, enhancing clarity. While the HD 505’s bass response leans slightly reserved, its midrange warmth and relaxed dynamics prioritize long-term listening comfort over aggressive detail retrieval.

Graph comparing Sennheiser HD 505 vs HD 599SE frequency response, showcasing the HD 505's 12Hz–38.5kHz range with a custom 120-ohm transducer on a wooden surface.

Sennheiser HD 505 open-back headphones on a wooden desk next to the Sennheiser HDV 820 DAC/amp, highlighting the setup used for testing Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9.

Listening Test: Paired with the Sennheiser HDV 820 DAC/amp, the HD 505 showcased its strengths with Beethoven’s Symphony No. 9. The expansive soundstage rendered orchestral layers with impressive width, while the natural timbre of brass and vocals highlighted Sennheiser’s signature tonal balance.

Verdict: A Tribute to Authentic Audio

The Sennheiser HD 505 is not about flashy specs or overpowering bass. Instead, it champions a refined, fatigue-free listening experience that honors music’s emotional core. Its open-back design, ergonomic build, and balanced acoustics make it a standout choice for audiophiles seeking timeless performance at a competitive price.