Selection Guide
Sennheiser HD 203
We always wonder how Sennheiser can engineer such superb audio performance into their lower-tier headphone lines and they strike again with the HD203. Sonically close to the HD202-II, expect decent bass and smoothly detailed highs at an affordable price from the German headphone designers. Comfortable 'on-ear' fit and tough-as-nails durability make this a worthy candidate for any listener who wants good headphone sound at a friendly price.
Product Features:
- Proprietary neodymium high-output drivers for great sound anywhere
- Lightweight extra-tough headband assembly provides extended durability
- Excellent acoustic performance meets superb wearing comfort
- Free 2-year 'repair or replace' Sennheiser manufacturer warranty
What's In The Box:
- 1/4" stereo plug adapter
Applications:
The Sennheiser HD203 offers high-end audio performance features at a "budget" price almost anyone can afford. We're still not completely sure how any headphone manufacturer can engineer such well-built, good-sounding products at this nice price, but we sure appreciate it when they do. Listeners intent on not splurging will also appreciate the durable construction, comfortable fit and clean tone of these basic-looking but solid headphones. Efficient 32-Ohm impedance allows use with iPod / iPad, laptop computers, mp3 players or home stereo systems with equal aplomb. The utilitarian-on-the-outside but high-tech plastic composite HD203 headband construction is nearly unbreakable and very lightweight, always a big plus during those long listening sessions. We're big fans of not spending money when you don't have to, and the Sennheiser HD203 fits the bill for multiple uses and listening styles. Terrific "budding audiophile" headphones and HeadRoom-recommended at the price!
The Sennheiser HD203's mid-sized, nearly-circumaural earpads tend to rest comfortably on the outer earlobes for most wearers and they're plushly padded with a durable glove-soft foam that does not get overly hot on the ears. The closed-back earcup design helps to block-out some mild degree of environmental ambient noise but the overall isolation factor remains mild so you can still remain aware of the telephone ringing or someone trying to get your attention. As mentioned, the lightweight headband assembly is ingeniously tough-built and consists of a simple bail system that allows a quick easy fit for all sizes of heads. The non-detachable cord length is about 9ft total and it comes terminated to a 3.5mm [1/8"] 'mini-plug' jack perfect for mobile and portable audio sources like iPads or MP3 players; a full-size 1/4" stereo plug adapter is also thoughtfully included in the packaging. The strong 2-year manufacturer's warranty remains in effect only when proof-purchased from true Sennheiser-authorized vendors -- like us here at HeadRoom since 1992!
Specifications:
- Headphone Type: Earpad
- Connector Type: 1/8
- Isolation: -8dB ~ -10dB
- Impedance @ 1kHz: 32 Ohms
- Detachable Cable: No
- Cord Length: 9ft
- Cord Type: Straight Y
- Coupler Size: Medium
- Ear Coupler Type: Earpad
- Driver Type: Dynamic
- Acoustic Seal: Closed
- Manufacturer Warranty: 2 Years
- Sensitivity: 115dB
Average Rating
Posted by QuarkMuon from Sewanee, TN on 2011-09-19
Recommend Product: Yes
Pros: Comfortable, durable, great sound for price
Cons: Weak midrange, cumbersome cable
After using them for about three months, I'm pretty happy with them. They sound decent for their price--the bass has kick but isn't generally overpowering, and the highs are nice and clear, and overall the sound lends itself to accuracy and detail. The soundstage is impressive as well for closed cans at this price (but don't expect jaw-dropping perfection). The midrange is somewhat weak, unfortunately, as if it's coming from behind a thin veil, which can make some music like classical and opera sound a little flat and lifeless. .
The construction is quite comfortable for my head. They don't squeeze my ears too much, even with my glasses, and the padded headband feels almost nonexistent up there. The cable is another matter: a ten-foot monstrosity that needs to be tied up with something if you're planning on taking these cans anywhere.
All in all, if you're on a budget, it's hard to go wrong with these. They're great for libraries and dorm rooms where you don't want sound leakage, and the price sure is right.
25 out of 26 people found this review helpful. Did you?
Posted by Awol from Chicago, IL on 2011-07-31
Recommend Product: Yes
Pros: Generally awesome sound, Amazing value, Great noise isolation, Descent build, Good output
Cons: Slightly uncomfortable after long wear, chord is a little long, The mid's are slightly lacking
However, I will say that these headphones are not super portable because they do not fold, and the chord is very long (apprx. 10 ft.) and needs to be coiled and secured with a wire tie or something.
Overall, I was very impressed with these headphones and am more than satisfied with my purchase.
24 out of 26 people found this review helpful. Did you?








