For many audiophiles, the Sennheiser HD 650 is a reference point — a headphone celebrated for its natural timbre, midrange accuracy, and long-term listening comfort. But as beloved as the HD 650 is, its stock ear pads leave room for improvement, both visually and sonically. That’s where Strauss & Wagner steps in with a trio of replacement options designed to subtly reshape the listening experience. In this review, we take a close look at the S&W Lambskin, Protein, and Flannel pads, exploring how each option affects comfort, aesthetics, and sound signature. Whether you’re chasing a richer bass response, restoring the HD 650’s analytical edge, or simply refreshing worn pads, these upgrades offer distinct paths worth considering.
S&W Lambskin Pads
The Strauss & Wagner lambskin pads make the HD 650 look a bit classier than usual. Their stock pads have a practical use, but aren’t the most aesthetically pleasing for a headphone that you’re paying a bit of money for. Just based on how they look with the S&W pads, the 650 looks sleeker and more premium. Attaching them is simple, and when they’re on, they look like a natural part of the headphone as a single piece. In terms of sound, the lambskin gives the HD 650 an interesting tone.
For the most part, this is the same reliable sound signature with a few quirks. First off, the more isolated sound allows for a more concentrated bass response, allowing the lows to hammer down with a greater impact. The sub-bass has a bump in vigor while the mid-bass takes on a clearer shape. Everything felt a bit smoother, which might lessen some of the 650s analytical properties, but it increases general enjoyment.
S&W Protein Pads
These protein pads look closer to what you see on a lot of consumer headphones. When worn, they feel like a lesser version of the lambskin pads, and the pinch that the HD 600 series is known for becomes more prevalent. Even with the added pressure compared to the lambskin pads, the protein pads still have a snug fit. You still have a soft cushion that just feels less plush. Soundwise, the protein pads are much closer to the 650’s sound profile than the lambskin’s signature. It’s not 1-to-1 with the stock pads, though, as the soundstage felt more narrow than usual. The protein pads return the analytical properties to the 650, but individual elements don’t feel as tall.
S&W Flannel Pads
The flannel ear pads are the closest you get to the stock ear pads for the HD 650. I would go as far as to say that the flannel pads are more like third-party replacement pads for these headphones. So, if you already like how the stock pads on the HD 650 feel, then the flannel pads are their counterpart, both in terms of comfort and sound.
Summary
Strauss & Wagner’s ear pad lineup shows just how much influence a simple accessory can have on a well-established headphone like the HD 650. The lambskin pads elevate both looks and musical enjoyment, smoothing the presentation while adding weight and authority to the low end. The protein pads lean closer to the stock tuning, preserving the HD 650’s analytical nature while slightly tightening the soundstage and increasing clamp pressure. Meanwhile, the flannel pads act as the most faithful replacement, maintaining the familiar comfort and sonic balance longtime users already appreciate.
Ultimately, there’s no single “best” option, only the pad that best aligns with how you listen. Whether your goal is refinement, accuracy, or restoration, Strauss & Wagner’s pads provide an accessible way to tailor the HD 650 to your preferences without altering what makes it a classic.
The Strauss & Wagner Earpads for the Sennheiser HD 600 series are available at Audio46.
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