Review of fake Sennheiser. How to distinguish Sennheiser headphones from fakes

In this article we will look at cases of fake Sennheiser headphones. Sennheiser has the largest market share, a good reputation, high-quality and sought-after products, which makes it profitable to produce counterfeits of their models. Surprisingly, fakes are found not only among headphones with a standard design of the CX 300/400 or IE4 series, but also among top models with original design. The cost of the headphones does not differ significantly, and the only question that arises for the buyer is, what about the quality in the end?

First of all, it’s worth finding out what affects the cost of headphones in general and what you can save on. And savings on the quality of materials, as well as on what is visually hidden. This results in wires that quickly fray or break easily. Speaker capsules are used only from headphones in the lowest price category.

Now in the century digital technologies There is increasing confidence that the copy is no different from the original, and that “everything in China is done the same,” however, companies working with China note that Chinese quality varies and greatly depends on cost. If you don’t do strict control (and strict control raises costs), then the result is a high level of defects. For those who produce fakes, this is of course not critical, because no warranty service no need to carry out. Sennheiser provides a 2-year warranty on its products, which indicates a low defect rate (otherwise it would not be economically feasible to provide such a guarantee).

Of course, Sennheiser fights counterfeits by regularly updating its lines and using new designs, but this is only a half-measure, because As fakes, the market is filled with “old” models, as well as “new” ones, in the hope that buyers cannot clearly distinguish a fake from an original.

Fake and original models

Sennheiser IE 8

Sennheiser IE 8 are flagship model of this type and accordingly they belong to expensive headphones. Their feature is the ability to adjust the level of low frequencies, a removable cable and excellent noise insulation.

Sennheiser ie8 - original on the left

Visually, the headphones are very similar, the color shade is slightly different. At the same time, the difference is very small; if you don’t have the original ones in your hands, then it’s almost impossible to understand that this is not the original. The cable on fake headphones is stiffer, but you shouldn’t rely on this as a noticeable difference.

A clearer difference is visible inside; the speaker capsules are different. Outwardly, this is noticeable by the different diameter of the coil; the original ones have a larger diameter, the original membrane is made of more elastic materials (which provides a softer, more comfortable sound). Despite the fact that IE 8 is dismountable, I would like to advise you not to disassemble these headphones, because... it is quite easy to break them without knowing the correct disassembly technology (if you think that the headphones require repair, it is better to take them to a service center). Sound quality comparisons are below.

Another difference is the wire. You can see the different quality of threads that prevent the wire from breaking. The original ones use Kevlar threads, while the fake ones use synthetics. Such a wire breaks more easily and is more susceptible to deformation in the cold. Synthetic threads melt easily at temperatures of 250-350 degrees (soldering iron operating temperature), while Kevlar threads are subject to only slight deformation up to 500 degrees (at more than high temperature the Kevlar threads should begin to break down). There are also differences on the box, the printing on the fake is slightly worse, but just like in the case of headphones, without having the original it is very difficult to distinguish a fake.

In the graph, the difference is due to slightly lower sensitivity and a different tonal balance. Fake IE 8 has slightly reduced bass frequencies. In a subjective comparison, I would like to note the difference not so much in the tonal balance, but in the detail of sound, stage positioning of instruments and the overall panorama. If the original IE 8 has a clear and intelligible sound, then the fake ones sound like budget models, where the localization of instruments is mushy. Reverb tails, clear separation of instruments in space, quiet small parts heard only in original IE 8.

Sennheiser IE 6

Sennheiser ie6 - original on the left

IE 6, unlike the others, is not so easy to understand, so the comparison is limited to objective measurements and subjective listening. Externally, the headphones are very similar, there are no too obvious differences.

Sennheiser ie6 - original on top

In the wire, the difference is similar to that of the IE 8 models, Kevlar versus plastic, and accordingly the strength of the fake wire is lower.

The sound is generally similar, with slightly lower output in the mids and lows. high frequencies ah, which is clearly visible on the frequency response graph. The main disadvantage is low level details and increased level distortion in the high frequency region. In general, the sound of the fake model is not fundamentally different from fake ie 8 and low-budget headphones.

Sennheiser IE 4

Sennheiser ie4 - original on the left

The difference between original and fake ones is visually manifested in the level of dullness of the headphones. The fake is more glossy, but it will be difficult to find the differences without the original.

Fake headphones generally have a similar tonal balance, but everything is canceled out by the inaudibility of the sound of fake headphones. It is difficult to determine not only the location of the instruments, but also their overall number.

Sennheiser CX 300 II

Sennheiser CX 300 - original on top

Outwardly, there is not much difference visible; one can praise the Chinese for their efforts. The only question remains about the final sound quality and reliability.

Sennheiser ie8 - original on top

Unfortunately, the quality of the wire cannot be praised. Instead of Kevlar, you can see white plastic. Considering that the wire is quite thin, the risk of rupture for fake CX 300-II is especially high.

The sound of headphones differs quite significantly, the original ones have a comfortable and clear sound, the fake ones have a much lower threshold of undistorted power and significantly lower sound detail. The sound of fake headphones has a worse panorama and poor intelligibility quiet sounds against a loud background.

In general, after getting acquainted, I was left with the impression that all fake headphones have direct competition in sound quality with headphones in the price range of 500 rubles. There is something to think about. If fake IE 8 were sold for 500 rubles, then perhaps the purchase would be justified as a “golden Rolex” for the same price, for the sake of spreading fingers in front of friends. The main thing is not to give such headphones to those who know how to distinguish normal headphones from similar low-budget ones :).

Because Since more than one or two underground companies are engaged in counterfeits, the examples given above are just variants that came across, but according to available information from the authorized Sennheiser service center, modifications of counterfeits of the same model can be different. the main objective this comparison- find out whether the sound quality and build quality of the fake are comparable to the original; unfortunately, as it turned out, in the tasks of the manufacturers of fakes there was no concern for sound quality, the emphasis was only on external similarity.

How can you protect yourself from counterfeits? Full description boxes and small differences does not seem to be a very good option, because... You can find several different counterfeits for one model; in addition, the range of counterfeits is constantly expanding; over the past six months, the authorized Sennheiser service center has identified an increase in counterfeits several times over; during the same period of time, the quality of printing on packaging has significantly improved, so the option cannot be ruled out. that in the near future the quality of printing on fakes will be as close as possible to the originals.

The official Sennheiser website lists companies and store chains that officially represent Sennheiser products. In these stores you are more protected from buying counterfeit goods.

If a store or chain of stores sells headphones from popular brands at significantly reduced prices, then it is not recommended to purchase products from such companies, although on the other hand there have been counterfeits sold at practically recommended retail prices. Sennheiser values its reputation as a global brand and tries to the best of its ability to monitor and maintain stable pricing policy, all headphones have a clear price for stores. If a store makes significant discounts without... visible reasons, then there is either a counterfeit (left goods from customs) or a fake.

Sennheiser is constantly updating its lines, so it is better to choose new models rather than old ones. And buy models that have been produced for several years without changes only in reliable/trusted places.

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Draw your attention to!

Sennheiser informs you that the following headphone models have been discontinued. All headphones currently offered are supposedly "new" headphones listed models are fake. Information about “inventory balances,” “sale,” “old stocks,” etc. is false and aimed at deceiving the buyer.

CX 300 first generation (light packaging, without index II)
CX 400
CX 400 II Titanium- discontinued in February 2009.
CX 400 II White- discontinued in February 2009.
CX 500- discontinued in February 2009.
CX 380 SPORT II- discontinued in April 2010.
CX 550 STYLE- discontinued in January 2010.

Within the line Sennheiser - Adidas Originals were issued ONLY three models and only in blue and white:

CX 310 Originals
HD 25 Originals- discontinued in October 2012
HD 220 Originals- discontinued in October 2012

Headphones with logo Adidas red, yellow and other colors were never produced by Sennheiser and are counterfeit.

When purchasing headphones, make sure there is an information sticker in Russian on the packaging indicating that the importer is Sennheiser Audio LLC.

Questions and answers

I think I purchased a counterfeit branded productSennheiser. Is this possible?

Unfortunately, many famous manufacturers suffer from illegal use their brands, counterfeits are sold at auctions, in stores and on online portals. With the increasing popularity of products, Sennheiser is increasingly suffering from unscrupulous sellers and manufacturers. Counterfeit products bring great profits because they externally copy high-quality original products without investing in the development and quality control of the product.

To protect our consumers from counterfeit products and companies illegally using trademark Sennheiser, we carefully review offers from sellers of Sennheiser products and take legal action against violators. Patents for technical developments and our product trademarks are registered worldwide.

What measures is it taking?Sennheiser?

We inform owners of online stores and auctions about the facts of the sale of counterfeit products and recommend that they block or remove offers from unscrupulous sellers. In the event of prolonged or massive sales of counterfeit products, we take legal measures against unscrupulous sellers, including arrest and confiscation of products.

In Asian countries, where most counterfeits are produced, inspections of enterprises where such products are produced are organized jointly with the police.

What signs help identify a fake?

Unfortunately, quick and easy way does not exist. Unscrupulous manufacturers make every effort to accurately imitate appearance products, although the quality of its work leaves much to be desired. The buyer should be careful if the product is offered at a very low price, the headphone model is outdated, is offered in old-style packaging, or the packaging is not typical for the product.

By purchasing a product from an unknown seller on an online auction, the buyer risks receiving a product different from that shown in the photograph, possibly illegally using the Sennheiser logo and trademark.

What are the risks for me when purchasing counterfeit products?

Counterfeit products have much worst characteristics and will most likely greatly disappoint the buyer who has every reason to expect highest quality, for which Sennheiser is famous. Although beautiful on the outside, counterfeit products have cheap, unreliable and low-quality content. The service center will refuse to repair counterfeit products, both under warranty and for a fee.

If you discover that the Sennheiser product you purchased is counterfeit, it is best to return it to the seller and ask for a refund of the money you paid for it.

Product information, list official dealers and authorized service centers is published on the Sennheiser Audio website in the appropriate section.

general information

In this article we will look at cases of fake Sennheiser headphones. Sennheiser has the largest market share, a good reputation, high-quality and sought-after products, which makes it profitable to produce counterfeits of their models. Surprisingly, fakes are found not only among headphones with a standard design of the CX 300/400 or IE4 series, but also among top models with an original design. The cost of the headphones does not differ significantly, and the only question that arises for the buyer is, what about the quality in the end?

Now, in the age of digital technology, there is increasing confidence that a copy is no different from the original, and that “everything in China is made the same,” however, companies working with China note that Chinese quality varies and greatly depends on cost. If you don’t do strict control (and strict control raises costs), then the result is a high level of defects. For those who produce counterfeits, this is of course not critical, because no warranty service is required. Sennheiser provides a 2-year warranty on its products, which indicates a low defect rate (otherwise it would not be economically feasible to provide such a guarantee).

Fake and original models

Sennheiser IE 8

Sennheiser IE 8 is the flagship model of this type and, accordingly, belongs to expensive headphones. Their feature is the ability to adjust the level of low frequencies, a removable cable and excellent noise insulation.

Sennheiser ie8 - original on the left

Another difference is the wire. You can see the different quality of threads that prevent the wire from breaking. The original ones use Kevlar threads, while the fake ones use synthetics. Such a wire breaks more easily and is more susceptible to deformation in the cold. Synthetic threads melt easily at temperatures of 250-350 degrees (soldering iron operating temperature), while Kevlar threads are subject to only slight deformation up to 500 degrees (at higher temperatures, Kevlar threads should begin to break down). There are also differences on the box, the printing on the fake is slightly worse, but just like in the case of headphones, without having the original it is very difficult to distinguish a fake.

In the graph, the difference is due to slightly lower sensitivity and a different tonal balance. Fake IE 8 has slightly reduced bass frequencies. In a subjective comparison, I would like to note the difference not so much in the tonal balance, but in the detail of sound, stage positioning of instruments and the overall panorama. While the original IE 8 has a clear and intelligible sound, the fake ones sound reminiscent of budget models, where the localization of instruments is mushy. Reverb tails, clear separation of instruments in space, quiet small details are heard only in the original IE 8.

Sennheiser IE 6

Sennheiser ie6 - original on the left

Sennheiser ie6 - original on top

In the wire, the difference is similar to that of the IE 8 models, Kevlar versus plastic, and accordingly the strength of the fake wire is lower.

The sound is generally similar, with slightly lower output at mid and lower high frequencies, which is clearly visible in the frequency response graph. The main disadvantage is the low level of detail and increased level of distortion in the high frequency region. In general, the sound of the fake model is not fundamentally different from fake ie 8 and low-budget headphones.

Sennheiser IE 4

Sennheiser ie4 - original on the left

Sennheiser CX 300 II

Sennheiser CX 300 - original on top

Outwardly, there is not much difference visible; one can praise the Chinese for their efforts. The only question remains about the final sound quality and reliability.

Sennheiser ie8 - original on top

The sound of headphones differs quite significantly, the original ones have a comfortable and clear sound, the fake ones have a much lower threshold of undistorted power and significantly lower sound detail. The sound of fake headphones is characterized by a worse panorama, poor intelligibility of quiet sounds against the background of loud ones.

Because Since more than one or two underground companies are engaged in counterfeits, the examples given above are just variants that came across, but according to available information from the authorized Sennheiser service center, modifications of counterfeits of the same model can be different. The main goal of this comparison is to find out whether the sound quality and build quality of the fake are comparable to the original; unfortunately, as it turned out, the tasks of the manufacturers of fakes did not care about sound quality, the emphasis was only on external similarity.

How can you protect yourself from counterfeits? A complete description of the boxes and minor differences does not seem to be a very good option, because... You can find several different counterfeits for one model; in addition, the range of counterfeits is constantly expanding; over the past six months, the authorized Sennheiser service center has identified an increase in counterfeits several times over; during the same period of time, the quality of printing on packaging has significantly improved, so the option cannot be ruled out. that in the near future the quality of printing on fakes will be as close as possible to the originals.

The official Sennheiser website lists companies and store chains that officially represent Sennheiser products. In these stores you are more protected from buying counterfeit goods.

If a store or chain of stores sells headphones from popular brands at significantly reduced prices, then it is not recommended to purchase products from such companies, although on the other hand there have been counterfeits sold at practically recommended retail prices. Sennheiser values its reputation as a global brand and tries to the best of its ability to monitor and maintain a stable pricing policy; all headphones have a clear price for stores. If a store makes significant discounts for no apparent reason, then it is either a counterfeit (the wrong product from customs) or a fake.

The material was prepared with the support of an authorized Sennheiser service center in Russia.
I express my gratitude to the authorized service center Sennheiser in Russia for providing samples of counterfeits and up-to-date information about the features model range original and fake headphones.

Whether you are a fan of listening to music on the go or, conversely, a professional working with sound in the studio, you will always be faced with a choice - which sound system purchase. Which headphones are best suited for your goals and objectives? Today we are looking at Sennheiser headphones HD 598, which blew up the market in 2013 and just as quickly left the scene.

Main characteristics

So, the presented model is a monitor model, which may cause difficulties when carrying. Big size headphones cannot be considered a disadvantage, but problems may arise when wearing them in rainy weather. Of course, you can use them indoors, but then it’s easier to purchase a full-fledged sound system.

Sennheiser HD 598 is connected to devices using a three-meter cable, which allows them to be used with maximum convenience in any setting. In addition, the wire can be disconnected, so there is no need to worry about kinks during storage. A universal mechanism, which snaps into place when connected, will maintain “contact” if you accidentally pull the wire.

Open architecture will allow others to hear your music at a distance of up to 1 meter, but will not provide the listener with anything supernatural.

Technical data

Next, let's move on to the sound. Sennheiser HD 598 headphones have a sensitivity of 112 dB, which is many times higher than analogues from the same company in this price category. More to the point in simple words, then the sound volume at maximum settings so large that you don't even need external speakers to be heard from several meters away.

The 50 ohm impedance also improves sound quality and output power. For comparison, other models of the company in this price range have large values this parameter. For example, - 64 Ohms, and - 54 Ohms.

But the reproduced frequencies are radically different. Sennheiser HD 598 have a lower threshold of 12 Hz, which is not bad at all and allows you to enjoy the bass quite well. But at the same time, the HD 380 has a lower threshold of 8 Hz, so if you plan to work at low frequencies, it will be better for you to choose this particular model. The upper limit of 38 kHz is ideal for listening to classical music. It will be very difficult to find a better one in this category. However, due to this scatter there are some problems, which we will talk about a little later.

Connection

As we already mentioned, the Sennheiser HD 598 has a 3 meter long cable. Although this may cause some discomfort when walking, at home or in the studio, given size will be very convenient.

The headphone connector has a 2.5 mm format, which will allow it to be used not only for its intended purpose, but also to connect many external sources sound. On the other side, the wire has a 6.3 mm connector, which can be used to connect to various sound cards. The kit also includes an adapter to standard 3.5 mm, so you can listen to music from ordinary gadgets.

Positive

Now let's talk about reality. The Sennheiser HD 598 headphones, the review of which you have just read, have characteristics that are clearly inflated for their cost. But how do they work together? Let's turn to users' opinions.

The first thing users highlight of this device- this is convenience and design. Pleasant shades for the eyes and velor ear pads that don’t make your ears tired or sweaty.
The second is, of course, a soft sound. Judging by the reviews, this accessory Has decent sound at mid and high frequencies.

This is where the benefits end. When reading the reviews, you get the feeling that all users are divided into two categories. For some, the Sennheiser HD 598 is the bottom price category, for others they are not cheap.

Negative

There is a very common opinion that the sound in these headphones is completely mixed. With an abundance of bass on different frequencies the melody mixes and sounds “out of a bucket.”

Another opinion suggests that maximum volumes You can't listen to metal. The device begins to generate a lot of noise. However, it is noted that the Sennheiser HD 598 is ideal for smooth classical music.

Openness is also often considered a disadvantage of this device. In crowded places, listening to them is almost useless. And in the evening the sound can spread throughout the entire apartment, so if you are going to watch a movie quietly good sound, you won't succeed.

The last drawback that users note has a significant impact on the desire to purchase these headphones. Judging by many comments, the bass on them is very weak and soft. They lack drive and speed. Therefore, drama lovers should buy amplifiers for them, which will also cost a pretty penny (about $150). With this condition, it is easier to immediately buy a more expensive and high-quality device.

Despite the fact that there is a lot of negativity in the comments, the Sennheiser HD 598 headphones, reviews of which we reviewed, receive a fairly high average rating - 5 in 70% of cases. So, if you are not an inveterate music lover and a professional, you can safely purchase them. But only with one small condition - do not stumble upon counterfeit goods. The manufacturer discontinued the Sennheiser HD 598 a long time ago. Read on to find out how to spot a fake.

"Left" headphones

Since Sennheiser is one of the trendsetters in the music industry, and their devices are mostly expensive, “Chinese” copies popular models great multitude. Let's look at a few simple ways How to avoid stumbling upon a fake.

We're talking about the Sennheiser HD 598, but this tip will be useful to you in any case. Check on the manufacturer's website to see if the model you need is currently in production. If not, then with 100% probability you will buy a fake.
So, you came to the store and are standing in front of the counter. How to distinguish a fake from the original? Check the package first. Very often, fake Sennheiser HD 598 are produced with a soldered wire. That is, you will not be able to disconnect it from the headphones.
The wire contacts must be exactly as we have given in the article. If the seller tries to convince you that a cord with a 3.5 mm jack at the end is a license, do not believe it.
The wire length of the original Sennheiser HD 598 is 3 m. Fakes have a standard length of 1.2 meters.
Regarding the headphones themselves. To make more money from a fake, it will use more expensive materials. Low quality. Check the ear pad material and size. The auricle should fit completely into them.
Another opportunity to save on counterfeit production is to use plastic instead of metal. Carefully inspect the grille external speakers- it should be metal, not plastic.
The headphones we review must be made with German meticulousness. Any threads sticking out of the seam or a crookedly written logo may be a reason to refuse the purchase.
The inserts around the “ears” should be silver plated, not stainless steel.
There should be a branding at the contact point where you rotate the speaker. Yes, and the designation “left - right” should be in place.
Let's look at the packaging. Sennheiser HD 598, reviews of which are given in the article, are not produced in Russia, but only imported, so the box should look like this:

It should not contain Russian. Any repackaged product carries a 75% risk of being counterfeit.

The Russian language can only be on a sticker on top of the package. It must also indicate one of the licensed importers. For example, Sennheiser Audio LLC.

The warranty must be stated on the packaging itself. It is two years.

Availability required serial number. In addition, there may be a QR code and ID. The absence of the first indicates that this product was not released by the company. By scanning the QR, you will receive a code that can be viewed on the official website. Compare IDs on different packages. If a store sells fakes, then it will most likely be the same.

conclusions

It’s quite easy to stumble upon a fake; however, if you follow and check simple rules from the second list, you can protect yourself by almost 75%. And then you will become the happy owner of high-quality audio equipment that will delight you for a long time.