Sound Quality
I haven’t used on-ear headphones much over the past few years, having switched to full-size headphones at home and simple Pixel Buds for walking around, commuting, or exercising.
Knowing these small headphones wouldn’t match what I’m used to, I kept my expectations in check. And yes, they’re not on par with full-size models. But can they bring some magic with their compact cups and driver sizes? The HD25 is unapologetically on-ear, and once you get past that, you’ll realize it actually has very good sound for its type.
First, the HD25 delivers a punchy and lively sound, especially for its compact size. It provides solid bass extension, though with a bit of a mid-bass hump that adds emphasis in that range. The lower mids can feel slightly overshadowed by the bass, but the forward upper mids bring vocals and instruments to the forefront.
As for treble, there’s a slight elevation that can lead to some sibilance with sharper sounds, giving the sound a slightly edgy, energetic character that may appeal to listeners who enjoy a lively presentation.
The soundstage is on the smaller side, which is expected for closed-back, portable headphones, so the presentation can feel a bit congested—not negatively, but as a natural outcome of this form factor.
That said, the sound remains quite coherent overall, and everything comes together in a well-balanced experience, particularly for its intended purpose. I mentioned earlier that I used it on a long bus trip, where the slightly boosted bass and forward mids worked well, as outside noise helped temper the emphasis on certain frequencies. The same goes when I’m using it for work without focusing too much on audio quality.
Once settled in, all I think is that the HD25 is a lively, punchy, and energetic on-ear headphone that’s enjoyable for casual listening.
Amplification
Although the HD25 benefits from an amp or DAC, the improvement is subtle, meaning you’re not missing much without one. This flexibility makes it a convenient choice for portable listening without needing specialized equipment.
Comparisons
Against the DT1350, the HD25 has a more energetic sound while the DT1350 leans towards a more subdued, laid-back profile. The Audeze Sine, meanwhile, has a larger and fuller sound closer to an over-ear headphone due to its larger planar drivers. However, the Sine is more challenging to drive and feels leaner without a suitable amplifier.
Conclusion
The Sennheiser HD25 is a durable, versatile headphone that has earned its place in professional audio. Despite increasing competition from noise-canceling headphones and in-ear monitors, the HD25 continues to deliver reliable performance and durability. For both professionals and casual commuters who need a resilient, non-battery-powered option, it remains a strong choice.
You can explore more about the HD25 on Sennheiser’s website or through authorized local distributors.