The Sennheiser HD 505 Copper Edition launched in India at Rs 27,990, but is currently selling for around Rs 19,990. A review unit reached us soon after launch, though it ended up sitting on the shelf for a while. I finally picked it up soon after wrapping up my time with the closed-back HD 630, and that timing turned out to be important. Right from the design, the HD 505 feels like a very different proposition. This is a wired, open-back pair of headphones, and it offered a good opportunity to spend proper time with Sennheiser’s open-back tuning in this segment. For context, Sennheiser positions the HD 505 as an upgrade over the HD 599 SE, with improvements in looks, materials and sound. And it is the sound where these headphones make their strongest impression.
The Sennheiser HD 505 Copper Edition is clearly aimed at beginner audiophiles, or those looking to step into more serious listening without jumping straight into high-end territory. With that positioning in mind, here is how it performed in our usual testing routine.
Wired, open and comfortable
The Sennheiser HD 505 looks very similar to many other open-back headphones in the company’s portfolio. Oval earcups with a plastic housing and headband frame give it a familiar silhouette. The use of plastic keeps the headphones light, while the synthetic leather padding on the headband and velour cushions on the earcups make them comfortable to wear, even during longer sessions. The clamp force is moderate, and the padding distributes weight evenly.
The Copper Edition adds a bit of visual character to an otherwise understated design. The copper accents break the monotony without making the headphones look flashy. Overall, the design and build quality are perfectly fine. The wired connection and open-back structure are its biggest highlights. You simply plug in and listen.
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Spacious sound meant for closed spaces
Being open-back, isolation is practically non-existent. Sound leaks out, and external noise comes in. This is not something you would use in shared spaces, but it is exactly what enables the HD 505’s sense of openness.
That spaciousness is the first thing I noticed while listening. Coming from closed-back headphones, the soundstage feels wider and more natural. Instruments are placed with clear separation, and there is a convincing sense of air between them.
Based on its frequency response, the Sennheiser HD 505 stays mostly flat through the mids, delivers tight bass, is slightly forward in the upper mids or presence region, and offers controlled highs. The clean, textured and centred midrange stands out in tracks like Hurt by Johnny Cash. Even Anthony Kiedis’s vocals in Scar Tissue by Red Hot Chilli Peppers come through clearly, with the guitar standing out with a crisp feel. The cymbals sound slightly soft, but overall, listening to rock tracks was an enjoyable experience. I also like that the treble is not too sharp, which allows for longer listening sessions without fatigue. Similarly, some users may prefer boosted bass, but the restraint here makes sense for studio monitoring or reference listening for creatives.
Much like Sennheiser’s own positioning, the HD 505 leans towards an analytical sound signature.
Should you buy Sennheiser HD 505 Copper?
The Sennheiser HD 505 Copper Edition’s strength lies in its clear mids and spacious presentation. The sound is overall enjoyable, even if it is analytical in nature. The extended but not overly bright treble and tight, controlled bass work well together. Comfort also plays an important role, thanks to the earmuff-like fit. At its current street price of Rs 19,990, the HD 505 is far more compelling than it was at launch.
That said, because of its wired and open-back design, this is very much a ‘sit down and listen’ headphone that rewards attention. It is less about instant excitement and more about accuracy and balance. If you are looking for a neutral, open-back headphone for focused listening, editing, or simply understanding your music better, the Sennheiser HD 505 makes a strong case. Just be sure you are buying into the open-back experience, with all its benefits and compromises.
Keep reading Digit.in for similar reviews.
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G. S. Vasan
G.S. Vasan is the chief copy editor at Digit, where he leads coverage of TVs and audio. His work spans reviews, news, features, and maintaining key content pages. Before joining Digit, he worked with publications like Smartprix and 91mobiles, bringing over six years of experience in tech journalism. His articles reflect both his expertise and passion for technology. View Full Profile
