A Legendary Audio Brand’s New Hi-Fi Headphones Are Surprisingly Affordable

Get into hi-fi without breaking the bank.

Published February 10, 2025

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Updated February 10, 2025

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Sennheiser introduced the world’s first open-back headphones back in 1968, and today, it makes a wide variety of options — its series of HD 500 headphones is its most affordable.

The Sennheiser HD 505 is the newest addition to that entry-level range. They are designed for burgeoning audiophiles who want to get into hi-fi without breaking the bank.

Sennheiser HD 505

Custom drivers

The Sennheiser HD 505 joins several open-back headphones in the company’s HD 500 series, including the HD599 ($200) and HD 560S ($230), but this newest entree promises to be a significant step up.

The HD 505 packs custom 120-ohm transducers, manufactured in Sennheiser’s audiophile factory in Tullamore, Ireland. They are capable of delivering a wide frequency response stretching 12 to 38,500 Hz and a total harmonic distortion measurement of less than 0.2 percent.

Additionally, Sennheiser says these transducers are angled to replicate the triangular positioning of a set of nearfield loudspeakers. This results in “an expansive soundstage that enables listeners to sit in the front row of their favorite music, movies, and games.”

Kings of comfort

Aside from sound, the HD 505 is designed for maximum comfort and long listening sessions. They are lighter than the brand’s other entry-level open-back headphones in the series, weighing just 237 grams.

Like its other open-back headphones in the HD 500 series, the HD 505 has large earcups with the brand’s signature metal mesh covers. The ear cushions are soft synthetic velour, while the headband is padded with faux leather.

Additionally, the headphones come with a 6-foot detachable cable with a 3.5mm (1/8-inch) plug. A 6.3mm adapter allows them to be used with a wide range of audio sources.

Price and availability

The Sennheiser HD 505 are the most premium and most expensive open-back headphones in the brand’s HD 500 series, but they still come in at well under $300.

They cost $280 and are available now on Amazon.