Sennheiser Announces Two New Headphone Models, Audiophiles Respond With Enthusiastic Golf Clap [CES 2012]

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LAS VEGAS, CES 2012 — Sennheiser is attacking the audio market with two exciting new headphones: the high-end HD 700s, and the mid-tier anodized-aluminum-crafted Amperior. Both have taken me to my happy place.

HD 700

In both price and sound signature, Sennheiser’s new HD 700s are meant to sit right between the HD 650 and HD 800 models. I had a chance to talk with Sennheiser about the 700s, and they told me that, sound-wise, that they’re a little warmer than the the 800s but not as colored as the 650s. They’re also aimed at audiophiles, not studio engineers, and like the 650s, feature a fully open design. The HD 650s and 800s are two of the best earphones I’ve ever heard, so I’m excited for the HD 700s.

For more on the specs and sound signature, I recommend checking out the full press release.

The HD 700s will be available in stores in March.

Amperior

The first thing you notice about the Amperior’s is how hefty and well-made they feel. They’re constructed of anodized aluminum, are optimized for the iPad, iPod, and iPhone, and come equipped with inline audio controls just like the standard white Apple headphones. They also feature an inline mic, so you can use them during phone calls.

I had a chance to spend some time with the Amperiors, and was impressed with how good they sounded. I wasn’t using an amp either; just plugged them right into my iPhone.

The Amperiors will also be available in March.

A Worthy Mention, the RS 220

I’ve never heard a set of wireless headphones that impressed me, but the RS 220s ($600) are looking like they might be going down that path. My new friend Jude, Editor at world-class headphone review site Head-Fi.org, has already crowned the 220s one of the best new products of the year. This comes from a guy who reviews high-end headphones for a living.

The 220s are beautiful too. They’re on display here at CES, so I can also tell you first-hand — they’re dead sexy.

The RS 220s were announced in September, and are available now in stores and online.

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