Technologies for realizing HD sound have long been available to the mass consumer. Today in this segment you can find headphones for different purposes, while amateur devices are increasingly reminiscent of professional equipment in quality. As a rule, this is achieved precisely due to the maximum disclosure of the advantages of HD-technology. At the same time, in cost, such models did not go so far from the advanced representatives of the traditional design. Modification Sennheiser HD 518 is a worthy example, combining an affordable price, and good sound quality. However, there are some flaws in this device.
Headphone design and ergonomics
The developers of Sennheiser in almost all models show a bias towards a conservative and, in fact, unattractive design. This defect is compensated by a well-designed and implemented housing in terms of ergonomics. In order to ensure compactness, Sennheiser HD 518 headphones are made of plastic. At the same time, the quality of the material is impeccable, which affected both the assembly and the strength of the case. Pads are made of rough material - this is especially felt when compared with velor. This aspect affects usability, but even with hours of use, the owner will not feel serious discomfort.
A speaker grill is provided on the back of each cup. There is debate about the appropriateness of using such a structural solution, but most experts believe that the overall design of the Sennheiser HD 518 is contrary to the nature of the execution of this element. As for the noise insulation of the cups, it corresponds to the level of home models. Although the headphones completely cover the ears, some of the sounds from the outside still pass. However, only professional devices, which at the same time cost more, can provide absolute protection against noise.
Model Features
In terms of device ratings for many parameters, there may be different opinions. Therefore, it is worth considering the actual data available to the device Sennheiser HD 518. An overview of its characteristics can be represented as follows:
- Type of headphones - monitor.
- The range of supported frequencies is from 14 to 26,000 Hz.
- Mass - 255 g.
- Type of connection - implemented as one-way.
- Resistance - 50 Ohms.
- Headphone fixation type - headband.
- Type of wire - detachable.
- The connector is a 6.3 mm “jack” as the main one and a 3.5 mm adapter.
- Features of the model are the use of oxygen-free copper in wires.
The manufacturer positions the model as a device for home use, while the characteristics indicate a fairly wide range of frequencies and the presence of two connector options, which allows us to consider the Sennheiser HD 518 as equipment with a wider purpose.
Sound quality
The device provides a clear, rich and balanced sound. Compared to popular models of the same class from Beats, in this case, less emphasis is placed on playing in the bass range. By and large, this option is suitable as a tool for universal use. Users with different needs will be able to count on warm and soft sound in the Sennheiser HD 518, which is important for use in the game process, and for watching movies, and for targeted listening to music. A feature of the headphones is the ability to broadcast quality sound without connecting an amplifier. Thanks to a good impedance of 50 ohms, the user will receive optimal performance of the device, eliminating the need to purchase additional acoustic equipment.
Positive reviews
Mostly praise from users note a good sound, which is characterized as calm and pleasant. At the same time, the headphones are distinguished by the clarity of playback - for example, speech intelligibility and clarity of sound at different ranges are mentioned. Although the manufacturer does not pay much attention to design refinements, some owners and appearance are included in the list of advantages of Sennheiser HD 518. The reviews also contain positive opinions regarding the strength of the casing assembly. The cups are made of pleasant to the touch and at the same time strong plastic. Regarding the ear pads, opinions differ. Their obvious advantages include practicality and good performance of their immediate tasks. The headphones fit snugly to the ears, taking the optimal position on the head. In general, it is worth saying that the model meets the expectations of users who expected to get good quality at a modest price.
Negative reviews
There are no complaints about the transmission of sound. In its category for this indicator, the model is considered one of the best. However, it is worth considering initially options for the upper class, if you need headphones for specialized purposes. The disadvantages noted by the users themselves are, first of all, the non-standard connector, which already comes equipped with Sennheiser HD 518 headphones. Reviews criticize the model not only for the presence of this connector, but for its use as the main one. The fact is that most home music fans still prefer the 3.5 mm format, which can only be used here through an adapter. In addition, there is a lot of weight. The design with ear pads comfortably “sits” on your head, but during long listening without support you can feel fatigue in the neck.
Conclusion
According to its sound characteristics and quality of construction, this model can be put in a number of top-end ones. Nevertheless, an acceptable cost of 6 thousand rubles. makes Sennheiser HD 518 headphones available for a wide range of audiophiles. Typically, devices with the same data from a similar price segment have problems in broadcasting low frequencies. This is not to say that the HD 518 claims to be a perfect player, but as a universal tool, this option is more than worthy of attention. In addition, one can mention high-quality workmanship and ample opportunity to supplement the device with auxiliary accessories. For example, depending on the complexity of the task, the model can also be used in sound recordings.