The hoopla surrounding the introduction of Sennheiser's original HD 800 headphone in 2009 was monumental because it was such a radical upgrade over the HD 650, the previous Sennheiser flagship. So, we're due for another flagship, but the HD 800 S is more like a reboot. What about a new flagship?

Rebooting a classic; making it better; Hand-crafted in Germany; Smoother sound than the original HD 800

Not as transparent as the very best planar headphones

The hoopla surrounding the introduction of Sennheiser's original HD 800 headphone in 2009 was monumental because it was such a radical upgrade over the HD 650, the previous Sennheiser flagship. So, we're due for another flagship, but the HD 800 S is more like a reboot. What about a new flagship

Rebooting a classic; making it better; Hand-crafted in Germany; Smoother sound than the original HD 800

Not as transparent as the very best planar headphones

This might be one of the shortest reviews I ever write, because of how uncomplicated its conclusion is. The Sennheiser HD 800 S is a sterling, wonderful pair of headphones that strikes a near-perfect balance between accuracy and enjoyment.

As detailed as headphones can get; Expansive soundstage; Light for their size; Sennheiser doesn't compromise fun in the pursuit of accuracy

Enormous; Require high-power amplifier; Zero sound isolation; Not for bassheads

KitGuru says: The Sennheiser HD800 S is an update to one of the most iconic headphones released in the last decade. ￡1,199 is a lot of money, but compared to some of the ‘flagship' competition they seem almost bargain basement.

Incredibly detailed; built to the highest standards; smoother and more ‘musical' than the original HD800; well priced; 4 pin XLR cable now included in the box

Easy to drive with almost any amplifier; but correct partnering will unlock their full capabilites

The Sennheiser HD 800 S are the company's most expensive headphones you can buy off the shelf. No, we haven't forgotten about the ￡30,000 Sennheisers Orpheus HE1060 , which cost a "small" fortune, but they can't be found on the high street.

Huge sound; HD 800 treble tamed; Very comfortable

Less 'micro detail' than HD 800

HD800S is probably the last headphone you'll need after you get one - especially if you're able to use open back headphones. I would love to get one for myself but I can only listen to an open back headphone at limited times of the day and HD800S requires quite a strong amplification to be driven...

Phenomenal and balanced nonfatiguing sound; super comfortable; very light; great unboxing experience

Materials could've been much more befitting of the premium price; cables causes worry when detaching

The new Sennheiser HD 800 S adroitly adresses sonic issues long heard with the HD 800. It tames the piercing 6kHz treble peak, and it provide a nice warming of the bass, overall producing a much better behaved headphone and a more enjoyable listening experience.

We have all wondered why audiophiles spend a sizable chunk of their wages on a good set of headphones; you ask yourself if headphones for that much amount of dosh can really be that good.

Few headphones have excited us as much as the HD800 S. Since Sennheiser announced the follow-up to the top-of-the-line HD800, we've been waiting on our tenterhooks with bated breath. But now we've actually got one sitting on our review desk, has all this anticipation been in vain?

Ancillaries used during testing Source/s: Mac Mini, MacBook Air, iPod Touch Software: Mac OS 10.11.4, Audirvana Plus 2.5.3, iTunes 12.3.3 DAC/s: Arcam irDAC-II, Schiit Bifrost 4490, Schiit Gungnir MB, MacBook Air (onboard), iPod Touch (onboard) Amplifier/s: Arcam irDAC-II, Schiit Mjolnir 2, Yamaha...