Abyss JOAL Vs Sennheiser HD 800s Comparison Review

The Abyss JOAL and the Sennheiser HD 800s are headphones that boast impressive technology and design, designed to cater to even the most nuanced preferences of serious listeners. From build quality to sound performance, this comparative analysis will guide you in understanding how these two models stack up against one another. Whether you’re interested in a dynamic soundstage, robust low-end performance, or immaculate midrange clarity, this comparison explores what each of these exceptional headphones brings to the table.

What You Get

Look & Feel

Judging these headphones based off of their appearance doesn’t really get us anywhere, but it’s worth noting the very industrial designs of both the JOAL and HD 800s. The parts that the JOAL uses make it a much sturdier frame, but the HD 800s have been around long enough to have confidence in its quality control. Where the JOAL and HD 800s make their biggest impression is their fit. The JOAL forms a secure grip around your ears, while the HD 800 is lighter and looser.

Design

The Abyss JOAL uses a 63mm planar magnetic driver, while the Sennheiser HD 800s uses a 56mm dynamic driver. Both headphones have their own components that shape the signal the way their respective manufacturer intends. For instance, Sennheiser implements special ring radiator transducers that help with transient response time, while the JOAL works more to decrease its impedance. At 300 Ohms, the HD 800s are much harder to drive than the JOAL, but the JOAL is also not very easy to run without a proper amplifier.

Soundstage

Few headphones can stack up to the soundstage presentation offered by the Sennheiser HD 800s, but the Abyss JOAL gives you its best shot. In terms of width, the HD 800s have the JOAL beat, but they match up more when examining their imaging and dimensional sound. The JOAL presents a level of imaging that feels expansive but air tight. Compared to the HD 800s, the headspace of the JOAL is closer to you. However, both headphones have a holographic sound field that localizes each instrument with specificity and distance. Separation is better on the HD 800s, though, and it’s able to simulate a more believable live environment. The JOAL, with its closer proximity, feels more like an expansive studio soundstage, but both headphones have very precise imaging.

Low End 

This is an easy layup for the JOAL, knowing where the HD 800s usually come up short. It’s not that the bass is ever missing on the HD 800s, but compared to the energy of the JOAL’s low frequency content, it will sure feel like the HD 800s has no bass presence whatsoever. At its best, the HD 800s have a lean, natural bass timbre that just lacks a solid foundation. The JOAL delivers that foundation, with an impactful slam that delves deep. If you’re looking for a sound that vibrates in its bottom end, you’ll definitely prefer the JOAL.

Mids

Both the JOAL and HD 800s elevate their midrange, providing immense clarity and detail. They’re able to resolve similarly, although the HD 800s is a bit more consistent with a wider range of frequencies. This is apparent with vocals, which appear more veiled in comparison to the HD 800s. The HD 800s is also more cutting with notes, but the JOAL isn’t far off with its level of artifact presentation and micro-detail. With that said, the low-mids on the JOAL might offer something different for you, supplying more texture to satisfy a larger array of genres. While the HD 800s also have great musicality, they do not have warmth, so it might not be your preference if you prefer a more intimate response.

Highs

There’s a very expressive high end frequency response in both headphones. Both the JOAL and HD 800s feature extended treble that accentuates instruments and adds texture. The main difference between their sound signatures is the amount of color used in the highs. The HD 800s showcases better control, and presents its highs with more realism than the JOAL, while the JOAL offers more sparkle and sizzly brilliance. You might prefer the tighter treble on the HD 800s, but if you absolutely must have that glisten to your highs, I’d go with the JOAL.

Summary

It’s clear that both the Abyss JOAL and the Sennheiser HD 800s are formidable options for audiophiles seeking an unparalleled listening experience. While the JOAL excels in delivering impactful low-end response and close-range imaging, the HD 800s stands its ground with a vast and detailed soundstage that immerses listeners in their favorite music. Ultimately, your choice between these two giants will largely depend on your individual listening preferences and the types of genres you enjoy. Whichever you choose, both headphones promise to enhance your audio experience, making them worth the investment for serious music lovers.

The Abyss JOAL and Sennheiser HD 800s are available at Audio46.