Sennheiser HD800 FilterSet
The Sennheiser HD800 Neutral FilterSet contains convolution filters with sample rates from 44.1 kHz to 352.8 kHz and packaged as a .zip file that can be used in most convolvers, like Hang Loose Convolver and Roon for example. Mono 352.8 kHz mono filters are also included for HQPlayer.
FilterSet Free Trial Offer: Download the Hang Loose Convolver 14-Day Free Trial software. Specify the Sennheiser HD800 Neutral FilterSet in the Order Notes at checkout. Headphone FilterSet License Agreement
Full Product Description
Frequency Response Measurement & Correction
The classic Sennheiser HD800 is noted for lack of deep bass and having a wickedly bright response often mistaken for high resolution detail. The low frequency response starts to roll off before 100 Hz and is -7 dB down at 20 Hz. There is broad -4 dB dip in the ears most sensitive range of 2 kHz followed by a narrow, +10 dB peak at just over 5 kHz. This +10 dB peak means that vocals and instruments in this range completely dominate the sound of these headphones.
Engaging the high-resolution convolution filter transforms these headphones from the brink of unlistenable to a highly accurate sound reproducer. -1 dB down at 20 Hz and ruler flat up to 5 kHz makes these headphones a joy to listen to.
Moritz (verified owner) –
Never Better – Rediscovering the HD800
I’ve owned the HD800 since it first launched, and I can honestly say I’ve never enjoyed it more than I do right now.
The resolution and imaging were always exceptional — that was never in question. But like many HD800 owners know, that notorious 6kHz peak was a persistent thorn in the side, inspiring all kinds of creative aftermarket modifications over the years in an attempt to tame it.
Mitch’s filter set changed everything for me. What sets it apart from conventional EQ is that the impulse correction works in both the frequency and time domains simultaneously — and the results are genuinely mind-blowing.
I’m currently running filters for the SR1a, Susvara, and HD800. Of the three, the SR1a and HD800 benefit the most dramatically. With this filter applied — easily done through HQPlayer or Roon — both headphones now compete at the very top of the field. My preferred ‘conventional headphone’ (not electrostat or ribbon) chain is a Rockna Wavedream NET → Wavedream Signature → Woo Audio WA33 Elite.
As a point of reference: I currently prefer the HD800 with these filters over my Focal Utopia (original version, for which filters aren’t yet available). That says everything.
If you’ve been sitting on the fence, this is the fix long-time HD800 owners have been waiting for.
Mark H (verified owner) –
I am a weirdo that was not as bothered by the stock performance of the HD800. I found good listening even with the crazy elbow around 5khz. But for sure there were recordings where they just sounded wrong. Sometimes limp in bass, and sometimes the vocals were yelling insults. This filter turns this venerable headphone into a reference. With filter engaged, I consider this one of the very best headphones I’ve owned. Added to its low weight and comfort (on my head), the HD800 is now my most listened to DD. It’s always on my desk now. Which is good, because there is no good case for it, lol! Don’t sell your HD800 or rush to upgrade. Get this filter instead and you already have a new headphone.
Daniel S (verified owner) –
I have to say, it turns these headphones into the best overall package out of any pair that I’ve owned. That list includes the LCD-X, HD600, SR-1A, Utopia, and the DCA Stealth’s.
In terms of weight and comfort they are great. Super light and open with tons of room for my ears. And the tonality with the filters is amazing. They really do sound just like my speakers in terms of tonality. It’s almost spooky how close they get. I had forgotten how good bass can be on dynamic headphones as well. They don’t vibrate your whole body like speakers can, but they do a very good job of vibrating your ears.
It’s also very interesting how the filters correct the headphone imaging and soundstage. I have found a good crossfeed, like Goodhertz Canopener, to be beneficial in the past, but I find it completely unnecessary now.
Floris (verified owner) –
Fantastic filterset. The HD800 is truly the perfect headphone when it comes to detail, stage and comfort. Now with these filters you can have perfect tonality too!