Sennheiser's new HD model headphones

New from Sennheiser are the HD218, HD228 and HD238 headphones, each with a full bass sound. Optimised for use with MP3 players, iPhones, iPods and other portable players, Sennheiser’s HD series headphones are compact and light, with dynamic bass performance and closed ear cups that help reduce the intrusion of external sounds, such as traffic and street noise.

There are three models to choose from, starting at $99 for the HD218 and topping out at $199 for the open-ear design HD 238 Precision. Fitted with a superior transducer and neodymium magnets, and promising 16-23,000 Hz frequency response, these will easily do double as quality cans for a home-based sound system too.

HD 218: dynamic bass reproduction

Full sound and dynamic bass reproduction, with closed ear cups screening out non-musical sounds – the clatter of the underground train, the chatter of the people sitting next to you and street noise outside.

Frequency response (headphones): 19 – 21000 Hz
Cable length: 1.4 m
Impedance: 24 Ohms
Sound pressure level (SPL): 108 dB (1kHz/1Vrms)
THD, total harmonic distortion: <0.5% (1kHz/100dB)
Ear coupling: Supraaural
Transducer principle: Dynamic, closed
Jack plug: 3.5 mm straight plug
Price: $99.95 RRP

HD 228: first-class bass performance

Available in black or white. High-performance neodymium magnets guarantee a crystal-clear stereo sound with first-class depth reproduction. Like the HD 218, the closed headphone design ensures that loud sounds, generated either externally or from within the headphones themselves, meaning you have uninterrupted listening and those around you can enjoy their peace as you listen. The extra soft ear pad cushioning also means the HD 228 can be worn comfortably for hours on end.

Frequency response (headphones): 18 – 22000 Hz
Cable length: 1.4 m
Impedance 24 Ohms
Sound pressure level (SPL): 110 dB (1kHz/1Vrms)
THD, total harmonic distortion: <0.5% (1kHz/100dB)
Ear coupling: Supraaural
Transducer principle: Dynamic, closed
Jack plug: 3.5 mm straight plug
Price: $149.95 RRP

HD 238 Precision: high resolution stereo sound

The HD 238 Precision is a winner thanks to its balanced stereo sound, its sound properties are optimised for both portable devices and for connecting to a home-based sound system. An improved transducer with high-performing neodymium magnets and a frequency response of between 16 and 23,000 Hz ensures concise and accurate reproduction.