Sennheiser HD 650 vs Philips Fidelio x2 [Which One To Choose?]

Selecting the appropriate headphones that provide an enjoyable experience may require significant time and effort. It is crucial to compare various brands, and once the options have been narrowed down, a decision must be made between them.

So, what are the differences in comparing Sennheiser HD 650 vs Philips Fidelio x2?

Between the two, Sennheiser HD 650 has a more balanced and natural sound with smoother treble, better midrange clarity, and tighter bass. Philips Fidelio X2 has powerful and immersive bass, but sharp peaks in treble cause listening fatigue. The X2 is priced around $210; it’s cheaper than HD 650.

We will break down more for you, so keep on reading!

Sennheiser HD 650 vs Philips Fidelio x2 [Quick Comparison]

Comparison Factor	Sennheiser HD 650	Philips Fidelio x2
Sound Quality	A balanced and natural sound signature with detailed mids and highs.	Powerful and immersive bass response
Treble, Mid-Range, And Bass	Has smoother and more accurate treble, better clarity in midrange and tighter bass	Has emphasized bass, uneven upper mids/lower treble, and sharp peaks in treble causing listening fatigue.
Frequency Response & Sensitivity	Frequency response range is from 15 Hz to 40 kHz.Sensitivity average in the 100 Hz to 10 kHz frequency band is 104.4 dB/V SPL.Sensitivity average in the 100 Hz to 10 kHz frequency band is 99.8 dB/mW SPL.Sensitivity at 1 kHz is 103.2 dB/V SPL.Sensitivity at 500 Hz is 103.5 dB/mW SPL.	Frequency response range is from 5 Hz to 40 kHz.Sensitivity is 100 dB/mW.Maximum power handling capacity is 500 mW.Total harmonic distortion (THD) is 0.1%.
Impedance	300 Ohms	30 Ohms
Comfort	A lightweight and comfortable design with velour earpads and a self-adjusting headband	Breathable Ear Cushions
Build Quality	Made of high-quality Metal Frames, and sturdy construction	Simple Velour Fabric Design
Soundstage	Offers a wide and spacious soundstage.	Immersive soundstage with precise imaging and separation
Price	~$330	~$210

The Sennheiser HD 650 and Philips Fidelio x2 are frequently compared open-back headphones. Still, the former is generally considered to provide superior sound quality. However, each has its distinct sound signature.

Sennheiser HD 650 vs. Philips Fidelio x2 [In-Depth Comparison]

Here is a detailed comparison of these headphones. With this, you will know in an in-deth sense why one would be preferred over the other.

The comparison is pronounced in this case, much similar to differences between IEMs and gaming headsets. 

Sound Quality:

The Sennheiser HD 650 wins in terms of audio quality when compared to the Philips Fidelio X2 because it is much more accurate. Furthermore, the details are amazing in the HD 650. 

It still maintains excellent midrange timbre. Compared to the Fidelio X2, the HD 650 has a more natural sound, better clarity and openness, and a boomier bass.

The Fidelio X2, on the other hand, is characterized as a fun and bassy open-back headphone with mediocre technical capabilities. Although it has a bass boost, it lacks physical impact and low-end extension, resulting in a muddy bass. 

Additionally, the midrange is blurred by the treble, which has an unpleasant peak around 8-9 kHz, leading to a grainy and low-fi sound. While it does offer wide soundstage, it lacks superb dynamics and attack.

Treble, Mid-Range, And Bass:

The Sennheiser HD 650 exhibits smoother treble with controlled resonances, resulting in more detail, making it better than the Philips Fidelio X2. 

The X2’s sharp peaks on either side of its treble notch may lead to listening fatigue. The Fidelio X2 has better midrange clarity than the HD650, but its uneven upper mids/lower treble obscures female vocals’ higher harmonics. 

The HD650 provides better clarity with natural sound for both male and female vocals. Alternatively, the X2 has a tasteful bass boost that masks midrange detail and goes more profound and robust than the HD650; the HD650 is tighter and better defined. 

The HD650 mainly offers superior accuracy in all three categories, making it preferred by audiophiles and professionals. But, the Fidelio X2 is suitable for those desiring a warmer, bass-heavy sound. However, it must improve overall sound quality and accuracy, especially in the treble range.

So, it will do just fine for audiophiles, but I would not call it the best Sennheiser Headphone for gaming. 

Frequency Response & Sensitivity:

Regarding frequency response and sensitivity, the Sennheiser HD 650 is also better than the Philips Fidelio x2. The HD 650 offers a broader frequency range with a lower limit of 15 Hz compared to the Fidelio X2’s 5 Hz. 

The HD 650 has a higher sensitivity across most frequency bands and a greater maximum power handling capacity. This ensures a more transparent and precise sound reproduction. 

As a result, the Sennheiser HD 650 is the preferred choice for audiophiles and music enthusiasts seeking a superior audio experience.

Impedance:

The Sennheiser HD650 impedes higher than the Philips Fidelio X2. As a result, the HD650 requires better amplification, which can be costly. Furthermore, the higher impedance will give the headphones an edge over the X2 in terms of details. .

The HD 650’s 300 ohm impedance requires more power but produces better sound quality and dynamics. 

In contrast, the Fidelio X2’s impedance is 30 ohms, which is much easier to drive but may result in less accurate sound reproduction and control over the drivers. 

And so the HD 650’s higher impedance makes it the superior choice for those prioritizing good quality.

Comfort:

The Sennheiser HD 650 provides a more comfortable fit than the Philips Fidelio x2. The HD 650 features a lightweight, ergonomic design and velour ear pads that offer extended comfort. 

The headphones also come with a self-adjusting headband that distributes the weight evenly across the head, enhancing comfort. The Fidelio X2, on the other hand, has a bulkier and heavier design, with leather ear pads that may cause discomfort over time. 

Moreover, the headband lacks adequate padding and may create pressure points. In summary, for users who value comfort during extended listening periods, the HD 650 is a better option.

Build Quality:

The Sennheiser HD 650 and Philips Fidelio x2 are headphones with good build quality, but the HD 650 is generally considered superior. 

It has a robust metal frame can withstand heavy use without breaking, and the ear cups are made of high-quality plastic that is less prone to cracking or creaking over time. 

Furthermore, the detachable cable system of the HD 650 is more reliable and convenient than the Fidelio X2’s fixed cable design, which may limit its versatility and lifespan. 

Overall, the Sennheiser HD 650 is the better choice for those seeking a long-lasting headphone without any issues.

Soundstage:

In this segment, The Philips Fidelio X2 is better than Sennheiser HD 650. The Philips Fidelio X2 has a larger soundstage than the Sennheiser HD 650, allowing for a more expansive and immersive listening experience. 

The headphones feature angled drivers, producing a wide, natural soundstage, superb imaging, and separation between different instruments and frequencies. The HD 650 has a narrower soundstage, which may feel more closed in and congested than the Fidelio X2. 

Therefore, the Fidelio X2 is ideal for those who prioritize an expansive and immersive soundstage. And so, the Fidelio X2 is the more suitable for those who prioritize a broad and wide soundstage.

Price:

The Philips Fidelio X2 typically has a lower price point than the Sennheiser HD 650, making it a popular option for those on a budget. 

The Philips Fidelio X2 cost approximately $210, where the Sennheiser HD 650 costs $330. The comparison becomes clear here for those who are on a budget. 

However, while the X2 may offer a more affordable option, the HD 650 is often regarded as a better value due to its superior audio quality and accuracy. This makes it a favored choice among audiophiles and music professionals. 

So, Which One Is More Suited For You?

The Sennheiser HD 650 suits buyers who prioritize audio quality and accuracy over affordability. The HD 650 is popular among audiophiles and music professionals due to its superior sound quality, especially in treble and midrange. 

Additionally, it has a more durable build and longer lifespan, making it a better investment. So this comparison is crystal clear, unlike the comparison between 32 and 80 ohm headphones. 

However, the Philips Fidelio X2 may be a more appropriate choice for budget-conscious buyers who prefer a warmer, bass-heavy sound.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Can the Sennheiser HD 650 be used for gaming or watching movies?

Yes, the Sennheiser HD 650 is suitable for gaming and movie-watching due to its open-back design, creating a more expansive soundstage that enhances positional audio and immersion.

Are the Sennheiser HD 650 and Philips Fidelio X2 noise-canceling headphones?

No, neither the Sennheiser HD 650 nor the Philips Fidelio X2 are noise-canceling headphones. They are both open-back headphones, which means they do not isolate sound well and allow for sound leakage. This makes them better suited for use in quiet environments.

Which headphones have a better warranty, the Sennheiser HD 650 or Philips Fidelio X2?

The Sennheiser HD 650 and Philips Fidelio X2 headphones have a two-year contract. Sennheiser is recognized for its outstanding customer service and support, which can make the warranty process more seamless and less troublesome compared to other brands.

Final Symphony

In the comparison of Sennheiser hd 650 vs Philips Fidelio x2, we have found that, the Sennheiser HD 650 headphones provide superior durability, making them a desirable choice for those seeking longevity. While the Philips Fidelio X2 falls slightly short in build quality, it is still a well-constructed option considering its price point.

We must leave now, till then, good bye!