Sennheiser is replacing three of its high-end over-ear headphones with updated versions of its 500 Series.

Sennheiser HD 598

The HD 598, HD 558 and HD 518 use Sennheiser’s own E.A.R. (Eargonomic Acoustic Refinement) technology, with acoustic baffles inclined at a slight angle to guide the audio signal directly to the ears. Neodymium magnets and Duofol diaphragms promise finely detailed music reproduction and low-vibration plastic materials in the casing help prevent distortions to the sound image.

The HD 558 and HD 598 include a sound reflector designed to optimise the spatial sound effect and a gold-plated 6.3mm jack plug. A new feature is the detachable cable with a bayonet plug which can be unlocked with a simple twist.

The top-end HD 598 uses a “special diaphragm geometry” to minimise intermodulation distortion and Sennheiser claims a “compressed cellulose fleece reduces total harmonic distortion to below 0.1 percent”. The frequency response is 12Hz-38.5kHz.

The HD 558 offers a narrower frequency response of 15Hz-28kHz and includes soft velour ear pads for extra comfort.

The HD 518 is the entry-level model in Sennheiser’s audiophile range with a frequency range of 14Hz-26kHz and anthracite ear cups.

The new headphones are due this month but prices are yet to be announced.