There’s a profound sense of joy and excitement that comes with unboxing a fresh pair of headphones. This feeling is all too familiar to us audiophiles who spend countless hours seeking to discern the subtle nuances between different audio equipment. Today, we will be immersing ourselves into the world of the Sennheiser HD 450BT, a pair of headphones that is garnering attention not only for its distinguished pedigree but also for its promise of delivering stellar audio performance at an accessible price point.
The Sennheiser brand needs little introduction for those entrenched in the world of high-fidelity sound. Synonymous with exceptional sound quality and technological innovation, Sennheiser has consistently delivered some of the finest headphones in the market, balancing the delicate act of providing superb audio reproduction with aesthetic and ergonomic design.
Now, the German audio giant presents us with the HD 450BT, a wireless, over-the-ear set of headphones that promises to continue the Sennheiser tradition of delivering high-quality audio. With its sleek design, active noise cancellation, and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, the HD 450BT seems poised to challenge other contenders in its category. But does it live up to the high standards set by its predecessors? Let’s delve deeper into the features, performance, and overall value of the Sennheiser HD 450BT to uncover the truth.
Join me as we embark on this audacious auditory exploration, peeling back the layers of technology, design, and sound that make up the Sennheiser HD 450BT. Whether you’re an audiophile, a tech enthusiast, or simply a music lover looking to enhance your audio experience, this review promises to provide insightful and comprehensive coverage of this noteworthy headphone offering from Sennheiser. Let the journey into sound begin.
Table of Contents
Sennheiser HD 450BT product information
History
Established in 1945, Sennheiser has a rich history that stretches back over seven decades, during which it has built a reputation for creating some of the finest audio equipment in the world. However, to understand the origin and creation of the HD 450BT, we need to look back only a few years, to a time when the audio industry was on the cusp of a major transformation.
In the mid-2010s, wireless technology began to gain momentum in the audio world. Audiophiles and casual listeners alike started to appreciate the freedom and convenience that wireless headphones offered. At the same time, advances in digital audio processing and battery technology were enabling wireless headphones to deliver sound quality that was getting closer to their wired counterparts. However, one of the main hurdles was the high price point of premium wireless headphones, which was often out of reach for many consumers.
Recognizing these trends and challenges, Sennheiser began to envision a new kind of headphone—one that would bring together the best of wireless technology, superior sound quality, and affordability. This vision would eventually take form as the HD 450BT.
The development of the HD 450BT was a significant project for Sennheiser. The company sought to blend its legacy of superior audio engineering with the latest technological advancements. This included integrating Bluetooth 5.0 for a seamless and reliable connection, incorporating active noise cancellation to provide listeners with an immersive audio experience, and optimizing battery life to ensure the headphones could keep up with the demands of modern life.
Finally, in early 2020, Sennheiser unveiled the HD 450BT at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES). The headphones were met with anticipation and excitement, with many lauding Sennheiser’s commitment to providing high-quality, affordable options for consumers.
Since its release, the HD 450BT has been widely recognized for its excellent performance and value, proving that Sennheiser’s vision of creating a top-quality, affordable wireless headphone was not only possible but could also set new standards in the audio industry. The HD 450BT is a testament to Sennheiser’s legacy and continued dedication to innovation, serving as a shining example of the company’s ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing technological landscape.
Specification
| Year of Manufacture | 2020 |
| Company | Sennheiser |
| Official Website | www.sennheiser.com |
| Fit Type | Over-Ear |
| Item Dimensions | 6.1 x 2.6 x 7.6 inches |
| Item Weight | 238 grams |
| Special Features | Active Noise Cancellation, Voice Assistant integration |
| Driver Size | 32mm |
| Frequency Response | 18 Hz to 22 kHz |
| Impedance | 18 Ω |
| Bluetooth Version | Bluetooth 5.0 |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 10 meters (33 feet) |
| ANC Modes | Single mode |
| Audio Codec | SBC, AAC, AptX™, AptX™ Low Latency |
| Battery Life | Up to 30 hours |
| Charging Time | Approximately 2 hours |
| Quick Charging | Yes, 2 hours playtime from 15 minutes charge |
| Controls | Touch controls and physical buttons |
| Price | Varies (check official website or authorized dealers) |
What is included in the delivery set?
The Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones come with a comprehensive set of accessories to ensure you can make the most of your listening experience. Here’s what you will find in the box:
- Sennheiser HD 450BT Wireless Headphones: The star of the show, these headphones come with a robust design and a comfortable fit, ensuring that you can listen to your favorite tunes for extended periods.
- Carry Case: To keep your headphones safe while traveling, Sennheiser includes a sturdy and compact carry case.
- USB-C Charging Cable: The headphones come with a USB-C charging cable to ensure fast and convenient charging.
- Audio Cable: For those moments when you prefer a wired connection or need to conserve battery, the HD 450BT also includes a 3.5mm audio cable.
- Quick Guide & Safety Guide: These handy booklets provide important information about the headphones’ features, how to use them safely, and tips for troubleshooting.
The inclusion of these accessories in the box ensures that you have everything you need to get started with your new headphones. Whether you’re at home or on the move, the Sennheiser HD 450BT offers a versatile and high-quality listening experience.
What about design, materials, assembly?
The Sennheiser HD 450BT embodies a blend of minimalist design and practical functionality that is both aesthetically pleasing and ergonomically satisfying. Available in black or white, these headphones are designed to fit seamlessly into any lifestyle or environment.
Design
The HD 450BT is a pair of over-ear, closed-back headphones, a design choice that enhances noise isolation and provides a more immersive listening experience. The headphones feature a sleek, modern design with clean lines and a minimalistic aesthetic, reflecting Sennheiser’s commitment to understated elegance.
The ear cups swivel and fold flat, making the headphones compact and easy to store in the included carrying case. This design feature also makes the HD 450BT ideal for travelers or commuters, as they can be easily packed away when not in use.
Materials
The build quality of the HD 450BT is excellent, with a mix of high-grade plastic and soft, synthetic leather materials used throughout. The plastic components are durable and lightweight, contributing to the overall comfort of the headphones without compromising their robustness.
The earpads and headband are cushioned with memory foam and wrapped in soft synthetic leather, providing a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. The earpads are also replaceable, ensuring the longevity of the headphones.
Assembly
The assembly of the HD 450BT is precise and meticulous, reflecting Sennheiser’s German engineering pedigree. The headphones feel solid and well put together, with no creaks or loose parts. The buttons and controls are well-placed and offer a tactile response, making them easy to operate even without looking.
The USB-C charging port and 3.5mm audio jack are positioned on the bottom of the right ear cup, keeping the cables out of the way when in use. The touch controls for playback, volume, and track navigation are also located on the right ear cup for easy access.
Overall, the design, materials, and assembly of the Sennheiser HD 450BT showcase the brand’s commitment to quality and user experience. They provide a comfortable fit, robust build, and intuitive controls, making them a pleasure to use for any audio enthusiast.
What about ergonomics and usability Sennheiser HD 450BT?
The Sennheiser HD 450BT shines in terms of ergonomics and usability. The design choices made by Sennheiser all contribute to the user-friendly nature of these headphones, making them suitable for various listening scenarios, from casual use to long-haul flights.
Ergonomics
The HD 450BT is designed with user comfort in mind. The headphones are relatively lightweight for an over-ear model, reducing the strain on the head and neck during prolonged usage. The headband is adjustable, allowing users of different head sizes to find a comfortable fit.
The ear cups, padded with soft memory foam and covered with synthetic leather, offer a comfortable and snug fit. They conform nicely to the ears and provide excellent passive noise isolation. Despite being closed-back headphones, they don’t tend to heat up as much as other models, making them comfortable for extended listening sessions.
Usability
In terms of usability, the HD 450BT is equipped with intuitive controls located on the right ear cup. These include physical buttons for power, noise cancellation, and a dedicated button to summon voice assistants like Siri or Google Assistant. There’s also a rocker for volume control and track navigation, which might take a little getting used to, but becomes second nature with time.
Pairing the headphones with your device via Bluetooth is straightforward, and the HD 450BT remembers the last paired device, automatically reconnecting when in range. The inclusion of Bluetooth 5.0 ensures a stable and reliable connection.
The HD 450BT also supports multi-device pairing, allowing you to switch seamlessly between devices. This is especially useful if you frequently switch between listening to music on your phone and watching videos on your laptop, for example.
Another notable feature is the Sennheiser Smart Control app compatibility. The app allows you to customize your listening experience, adjust the level of noise cancellation, and even tweak the EQ settings to suit your personal preferences.
Battery life is another strong point, with up to 30 hours of playtime on a single charge. The headphones also support quick charging, providing 2 hours of playback with just 15 minutes of charging.
Overall, the ergonomics and usability of the Sennheiser HD 450BT make them a strong contender in their price range. They offer a comfortable fit, intuitive controls, and versatile features that cater to a wide range of user needs.
What about connection, control and software?
Connection
The Sennheiser HD 450BT comes equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 technology, offering a stable and reliable wireless connection. The headphones support multiple Bluetooth profiles, including A2DP, AVRCP, HSP, and HFP, allowing for a wide range of functionalities, from audio playback to hands-free calling.
The multi-device pairing capability is a standout feature, enabling the headphones to maintain connections with two devices simultaneously. This allows for seamless switching between devices, making the HD 450BT highly versatile for multitasking across devices.
For those instances when a wired connection is preferable or necessary, the HD 450BT also features a 3.5mm headphone jack, and an audio cable is included in the box.
Control
The control scheme on the HD 450BT is both comprehensive and intuitive. On the right ear cup, you’ll find a set of physical buttons and a rocker switch. The power button also serves to initiate Bluetooth pairing when held down for a few seconds. A separate button is dedicated to activating the active noise cancellation feature, while the rocker switch controls volume and track navigation.
One unique feature of the HD 450BT is the dedicated voice assistant button, which summons your device’s voice assistant, such as Siri or Google Assistant, with a single press. This can be particularly handy for hands-free operation, allowing you to make calls, send messages, or search for information without reaching for your device.
Software
The HD 450BT is compatible with the Sennheiser Smart Control app, available for both iOS and Android. This app acts as a control center for your headphones, allowing you to tweak various settings and features.
Within the app, you can adjust the level of noise cancellation, which can be useful for adapting to different environments. The app also includes an equalizer, allowing you to fine-tune the sound profile to your personal preferences.
Another useful feature within the app is the firmware update function. Sennheiser periodically releases firmware updates for the HD 450BT, which can improve functionality and fix any potential issues. Through the app, these updates can be easily downloaded and installed, ensuring your headphones are always running on the latest software.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser HD 450BT offers robust connection options, intuitive controls, and versatile software compatibility, making them highly user-friendly and adaptable to various listening needs and preferences.
How’s the sound quality?
The sound quality of the Sennheiser HD 450BT reflects the brand’s commitment to audio excellence. The headphones deliver a balanced, clear, and dynamic sound profile that caters to a wide range of music genres and media.
Bass
The bass response of the HD 450BT is deep and articulate without being overpowering. It manages to deliver a substantial punch in bass-heavy tracks without muddying the midrange. The sub-bass has an adequate rumble that adds a sense of depth to the music. It’s not excessively boosted, making it ideal for those who appreciate a more balanced sound signature. However, fans of electronic, hip hop, or other bass-heavy genres might find the bass to be a bit restrained.
Midrange
The midrange is where the HD 450BT really shines. Vocals and instruments are rendered with clarity and precision. The lower mids are warm and smooth, providing body and richness to the sound. The upper mids, meanwhile, are well-detailed without being harsh or sibilant. This results in a natural and lifelike reproduction of vocals and mid-centric instruments, making the HD 450BT excellent for genres such as rock, folk, jazz, and classical.
Treble
The treble response on the HD 450BT is well-extended and articulate. It provides enough sparkle and airiness to give the sound a sense of openness and detail. The treble doesn’t come off as overly bright or harsh, which makes these headphones suitable for long listening sessions without causing fatigue.
Soundstage and Imaging
Given the closed-back design, the soundstage isn’t exceptionally wide, but it’s decent for a pair of wireless headphones in this price range. There’s a good sense of space and separation between instruments, which contributes to an immersive listening experience.
Imaging is impressive on the HD 450BT. The headphones do an excellent job of accurately placing instruments and vocals within the stereo field, which is particularly noticeable when listening to live or orchestral recordings.
Active Noise Cancellation
The active noise cancellation (ANC) feature on the HD 450BT is effective at reducing ambient noise. While it might not completely eliminate all background noise, especially in very noisy environments, it significantly diminishes most low-frequency sounds like the hum of an airplane or the rumble of a train. This makes the HD 450BT an excellent companion for commuting or travel.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser HD 450BT delivers a high-quality sound profile that is balanced, detailed, and dynamic. While they may not satisfy bass-heads or those seeking a more colored sound signature, they will appeal to listeners who appreciate clarity, detail, and a natural sound reproduction.
What about the energy efficiency and battery life?
One of the standout features of the Sennheiser HD 450BT is its impressive battery life, which is a testament to its energy efficiency.
On a full charge, the HD 450BT can deliver up to 30 hours of playback with both Bluetooth and Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) enabled. This is quite remarkable, as many headphones in this price range struggle to maintain such battery longevity, especially with ANC turned on. This makes the HD 450BT ideal for long-haul flights, extended commutes, or simply those days when you’re away from a power source for a prolonged period.
The headphones also feature a quick charge function. A short 15-minute charge can provide approximately 2 hours of playback, which can be highly convenient when you need a quick boost of battery life.
Charging the headphones is done via the USB-C port, which is a nice inclusion considering the growing prevalence of USB-C in modern devices. A full charge from zero to 100% typically takes around 2 hours.
The HD 450BT’s excellent battery life and energy efficiency, coupled with its quick charge feature and USB-C compatibility, contribute to its high usability and convenience. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or a casual listener, you can enjoy your favorite tunes without worrying about frequently recharging your headphones.
Comparison & Review
What are similar headphones in features and cost?
There are several headphones on the market that offer similar features to the Sennheiser HD 450BT in a comparable price range. Here are five alternatives you might consider:
- Sony WH-CH710N: These wireless, over-ear headphones from Sony offer Active Noise Cancellation, voice assistant compatibility, and a battery life of up to 35 hours. They also include a quick charging feature and support for Sony’s Headphones Connect app.
- JBL Live 650BTNC: JBL’s offering in this price range features JBL Signature Sound, Active Noise Cancellation, and voice assistant integration. They offer up to 20 hours of playback with Bluetooth and ANC enabled, or up to 30 hours with just Bluetooth.
- Audio-Technica ATH-SR30BT: While these headphones lack Active Noise Cancellation, they make up for it with an impressive 70 hours of battery life. They also feature 40mm drivers for powerful sound, and a lightweight, foldable design for easy portability.
- Anker Soundcore Life Q30: Known for their value-for-money products, Anker offers these headphones with customizable Active Noise Cancellation, multiple sound profiles, and up to 40 hours of playtime with ANC enabled (or 60 hours without ANC). They also come with quick charge capabilities.
- Plantronics BackBeat GO 810: These over-ear headphones from Plantronics feature dual-mode Active Noise Cancellation, up to 22 hours of battery life with ANC and Bluetooth enabled, and a customizable EQ in the Plantronics app.
Each of these headphones offers a unique set of features and strengths, so the best choice would depend on your specific needs and preferences. Always consider factors like comfort, sound quality, battery life, and additional features when choosing a pair of headphones.
Compare with similar items
| Specification | Sennheiser HD 450BT | Sony WH-CH710N | JBL Live 650BTNC |
|---|---|---|---|
| Year of Manufacture | 2020 | 2020 | 2019 |
| Company | Sennheiser | Sony | JBL |
| Official Website | www.sennheiser.com | www.sony.com | www.jbl.com |
| Fit Type | Over-ear | Over-ear | Over-ear |
| Item Dimensions | 6.1 x 2.6 x 7.6 in | N/A | N/A |
| Item Weight | 238g | 223g | 260g |
| Special Features | ANC, Voice Assistant | ANC, Voice Assistant | ANC, Voice Assistant |
| Driver Size | N/A | 30mm | 40mm |
| Frequency Response | 18Hz – 22kHz | 7Hz – 20kHz | 20Hz – 20kHz |
| Impedance | N/A | N/A | N/A |
| Bluetooth Version | 5.0 | 5.0 | 4.2 |
| Bluetooth Range | Up to 10m | Up to 10m | Up to 10m |
| ANC Modes | Single Mode | Single Mode | Single Mode |
| Audio Codec | SBC, AAC, AptX, AptX Low Latency | SBC, AAC | SBC, AAC |
| Battery Life | Up to 30hrs | Up to 35hrs | Up to 20hrs (ANC+BT), 30hrs (BT only) |
| Charging Time | Approx. 2hrs | Approx. 7hrs | 2hrs |
| Quick Charging | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Controls | Physical Buttons | Physical Buttons | Physical Buttons, Touch Controls |
| Price | $199.95 (as of 2021) | $199.99 (as of 2021) | $199.95 (as of 2021) |
How do Sennheiser HD 450BT users describe their experience with these headphones?
User experiences with the Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones are generally positive, with many highlighting their excellent sound quality, impressive battery life, and effective noise cancellation. Here are some common themes that emerge from user reviews:
- Sound Quality: Users often commend the balanced and detailed sound profile of the HD 450BT. They appreciate the clarity of vocals and instruments, and the overall richness of the sound. Some users, particularly those who prefer a bass-heavy sound, feel that the bass could be a bit more powerful, but they generally appreciate the balanced approach to the sound signature.
- Battery Life: The long battery life is frequently praised by users. Many appreciate the ability to listen for extended periods without needing to recharge the headphones. The quick charging feature is also well-received, with users finding it convenient for topping up the battery quickly.
- Noise Cancellation: Users find the active noise cancellation to be effective at reducing ambient noise. While some note that it may not be as powerful as some high-end models, they generally feel that it performs very well for its price range.
- Comfort: The comfort of the HD 450BT is generally well-regarded. Users often comment on the soft padding of the ear cups and the adjustable headband, making these headphones comfortable for long listening sessions.
- Build Quality: Some users have mixed opinions about the build quality. While many appreciate the lightweight design, some find the plastic construction to feel a bit less premium. However, most agree that the headphones seem durable and well-made.
- Bluetooth Connectivity: The Bluetooth 5.0 connection is widely praised for its stability and range. The multi-device pairing feature is also well-liked by users who frequently switch between different devices.
- Sennheiser Smart Control App: User experiences with the app are somewhat mixed. While some appreciate the ability to customize the sound and adjust the noise cancellation, others find the app’s interface to be less intuitive.
In summary, users generally describe their experience with the Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones as positive, appreciating their sound quality, battery life, and noise cancellation features. However, like any product, they are not without their critics, and some users have expressed minor concerns regarding the build quality and the companion app.
Pros and cons of headphones Sennheiser HD 450BT
| Positive Aspects | Negative Aspects |
|---|---|
| Excellent sound quality with a balanced and detailed sound profile | Bass might not be powerful enough for those who prefer a bass-heavy sound |
| Impressive battery life of up to 30 hours with ANC and Bluetooth enabled | Some users find the plastic construction to be less premium |
| Effective active noise cancellation for the price range | The Sennheiser Smart Control app’s interface may not be intuitive for all users |
| Comfortable for long listening sessions due to the soft padding and adjustable headband | Some users may prefer a more premium material for the ear cups |
| Stable and far-reaching Bluetooth 5.0 connection | Not all users find the active noise cancellation to be as effective as higher-end models |
| Multi-device pairing capability is highly convenient | |
| Quick charging feature is convenient for a fast battery top-up |
Conclusions
The Sennheiser HD 450BT represents a balanced blend of performance, features, and value. The headphones deliver excellent sound quality with a balanced and detailed profile that caters to a wide array of musical genres. They are particularly notable for their impressive battery life of up to 30 hours even with active noise cancellation and Bluetooth enabled, a benchmark that few headphones in this price bracket achieve.
The active noise cancellation, while not on par with more premium models, performs admirably in reducing ambient noise, offering a more immersive listening experience. The comfort and fit of these headphones make them suitable for extended listening sessions, thanks to the soft padding and adjustable headband.
The Bluetooth 5.0 connection offers stability and a broad range, and the ability to pair multiple devices adds to the overall convenience. A quick charging feature is another handy inclusion for those needing a quick top-up on power.
However, like any product, the HD 450BT is not without its shortcomings. Some users find the bass a tad underwhelming, particularly those who favor a bass-heavy sound. The plastic construction, while durable, may not feel as premium to some users. Additionally, the Sennheiser Smart Control app, while offering customization options, may not be as intuitive for all users.
In summary, the Sennheiser HD 450BT offers a compelling package of sound quality, features, and longevity, making it an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality wireless headphones without breaking the bank. While it has its minor shortcomings, its strengths more than make up for them, solidifying its position as a strong contender in its price range.
Thank you for reading this review. We hope it helps you make an informed decision about whether the Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones are the right fit for your audio needs.
Happy Listening!
Our Review
Sennheiser HD 450BT. Basic questions, basic answers
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Can the Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones be connected to multiple devices at the same time?
Yes, these headphones support multi-device pairing, which allows them to be connected to two devices simultaneously.
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How long does it take to fully charge the headphones?
It takes approximately 2 hours to fully charge the headphones.
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Are the Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones suitable for gaming?
While these headphones can certainly be used for gaming, they might not be the best choice for games where latency is a critical factor. They are more suited to casual gaming and general media consumption.
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What kind of sound profile do these headphones have?
The Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones offer a balanced sound profile with clear vocals and instruments, suitable for a wide range of musical genres.
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What is the range of the Bluetooth connection?
The Bluetooth 5.0 technology in these headphones provides a range of up to 10 meters or around 33 feet.
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Can the active noise cancellation be turned off?
Yes, the active noise cancellation can be turned on or off based on your preference.
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Are these headphones comfortable for long listening sessions?
With their soft padding and adjustable headband, the Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones are generally comfortable for long listening sessions.
Last Updated on September 2, 2023
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3 comments
As the author of this review, I truly appreciate your time in reading through my thoughts on the Sennheiser HD 450BT headphones. I hope it provided useful insights and guidance for your headphone shopping journey.
Now, I would love to hear from you! What are your thoughts on the Sennheiser HD 450BT? Do you own a pair, or are you considering buying one? If you have any specific questions about these headphones or any other audio gear, feel free to ask. I’m here to help!
Your feedback is invaluable in helping me create better content that caters to your needs. So, don’t hesitate to share your comments, thoughts, or suggestions. Let’s keep this conversation going!
The comfort level is a big deal for me as I listen to music for long periods. Your review assures me that these will be a good fit. Will give them a try!
Excellent review! I’ve been using the HD 450BT for a few months now and couldn’t agree more with your assessments. The sound balance is great, and the battery life is truly impressive.