Speaker Month Day #3: Sennheiser HD 219s Headphones Review

     Today we take a look at the Sennheiser HD 219s on-ear headphones. These will run you about $80, though there is an older version (aptly named the HD 219; without a microphone) that sells for $60. Getting straight to performance, these are not the best headphones I have heard for under $100, but there is something to be said for how light and comfortable they are, and the fact that the in-line remote can answer calls and adjust the volume with ALL devices, versus just Apple devices. Recordings made using the chunky mic on the remote came out extremely clear, with minimal static.

     These headphones have a particularly flat response. I found that in some tracks with a lot of instruments playing at once, the bass tended to get lost in the music. Highs sounded really good and pronounced though, with electronic instruments and female vocals taking the lead. Noise isolation was very poor with these headphones and I certainly wouldn't recommend them for bus commuters or for listening to music at basketball games. Sound leakage was minimal but noticeable at mid-volume.

     As long as they would be used in a quiet environment, the HD 219/219s would make a great all-around headphone for all genres minus hardcore hip-hop and rock. Their portability and comfort on the head would make them excellent for long listening sessions in the car. Of course, if you are looking for a pair of headphones that can answer calls, adjust volume, and can still play music worth its two cents, these are your cans.