Sennheiser HD800S Review: Why Reddit’s Audio Community Says It’s Worth the Investment
Introduction
A viral Reddit post on r/BuyItForLife recently caught the internet’s attention—not because of a catastrophic failure, but because of what one audiophile was willing to do to protect their prized headphones. When faced with an unexpected hair-coloring session, the original poster wrapped their Sennheiser HD800S in toilet paper rather than risk exposure to the dye. While the approach drew humorous comments from the community (“outjerked yet again” being a personal favorite), the incident revealed something more important: the HD800S commands enough respect and loyalty that people will go to absurd lengths to preserve it. This tells you something significant about the product’s reputation and build quality in the audiophile community.
What Is It?
The Sennheiser HD800S is a premium, open-back, over-ear headphone designed for professional audio work and serious listening. Manufactured by Sennheiser, a legendary German audio company with decades of expertise, the HD800S represents the pinnacle of consumer headphone engineering. These aren’t casual earbuds—they’re a significant investment typically priced in the $400-500 range, and they’re engineered to deliver studio-quality sound reproduction with exceptional clarity and detail. The open-back design allows sound to escape freely, creating a wider, more natural soundstage compared to closed-back alternatives. If you care deeply about how your music sounds, the HD800S is built for you.
Why Reddit Loves It
The r/BuyItForLife community has embraced the HD800S not just for its sound quality, but for its durability and repairability—core tenets of the “buy it for life” philosophy. Members recognize that the original poster’s concern about protecting these headphones wasn’t paranoia; it was practical stewardship of quality equipment. The community’s reaction highlighted a crucial point: people are willing to defend their investments when those investments are genuinely worth defending. The fact that someone would wrap their headphones in toilet paper—a decidedly unglamorous solution—rather than risk damage speaks volumes about the product’s perceived value and longevity. Reddit’s audio enthusiasts appreciate that Sennheiser built these headphones to last, not to become obsolete in a year.
Key Features
What makes the HD800S a true buy-it-for-life product? Several factors stand out. First, the replaceable ear pads mean you’re not locked into degrading sound quality as materials age—you can simply swap them out. Second, the robust build construction uses quality materials that resist wear and environmental stress. Third, Sennheiser’s commitment to the product ecosystem means spare parts remain available and relatively affordable, even years after purchase. The open-back design also means there’s less risk of moisture buildup that might degrade closed-back headphones over time. Finally, the timeless design won’t look dated in five or ten years, which matters when you’re making a long-term investment.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality—Studio-grade audio reproduction with remarkable detail and clarity across the frequency spectrum
- Built to last—Durable construction and quality materials mean these headphones handle years of regular use
- Replaceable parts—Ear pads and cables are easily replaceable, extending the product lifespan indefinitely
- Wide soundstage—The open-back design creates an immersive, natural listening experience that closed-back headphones can’t match
- Professional-grade reliability—Used in recording studios and mastering environments where audio accuracy is non-negotiable
- Resale value—Strong secondary market means you can recoup significant value if you ever want to upgrade
- Excellent customer support—Sennheiser’s reputation for service stands behind the product
Cons / What to Know
- High entry price—At $400-500+, these represent a serious financial commitment not suitable for casual listeners
- Requires quality source equipment—To truly appreciate the HD800S, you’ll likely need a decent DAC and amplifier, adding to total cost
- Open-back design means sound leakage—Others nearby will hear your music; these aren’t ideal for shared spaces or travel
- Not portable-friendly—These are desk-bound headphones; they’re bulky and require careful handling
- Steep learning curve for audio preferences—The analytical, neutral sound signature takes time to appreciate and may not suit everyone’s taste immediately
- Requires regular maintenance—Dust and debris can accumulate in the open-back design and need occasional cleaning
Who Is It Best For?
The HD800S is ideal for serious audiophiles, musicians, sound engineers, and anyone who views headphones as a long-term investment rather than a disposable accessory. If you’re someone who listens to music critically, invests in quality audio equipment, and values built-to-last products, this is your headphone. They’re also perfect for remote musicians or podcasters who need reliable, accurate audio monitoring without breaking the bank on studio monitors.
The Bottom Line
The Sennheiser HD800S earned its viral Reddit moment not through hype or marketing, but through genuine, sustained appreciation from the audio community. When people will wrap their headphones in toilet paper to protect them from incidental damage, you’re looking at a product that has achieved something rare: unironic love from people who know audio equipment inside and out. Yes, the price is steep. Yes, you’ll want complementary equipment to get the best out of them. But if you’re seeking a true buy-it-for-life headphone investment that will deliver exceptional sound quality for years to come, the HD800S deserves serious consideration. These aren’t just headphones—they’re a gateway to better listening, and they’re built to remain with you for the long haul.