Sennheiser CX275s review

Capable enough but these Sennheisers don't quite justify the price Tested at £50

What Hi-Fi? Verdict

Capable enough but these Sennheisers don't quite justify the price

Pros

  • +

    Balanced

  • +

    Well organised

  • +

    Comfortable fit

Cons

  • -

    Fiddly

  • -

    Timing could be better

  • -

    Clumsy presentation

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Sennheiser’s headphones usually swing between unapologetic simplicity and ergonomic flamboyance.

The Sennheiser CX 275s sits somewhere in between, with a crescent-shaped outer shell that doesn’t seem to have any purpose. A plastic construction makes them feel a little cheap, although they’re solid enough and nothing squeaks or rattles.

Unfortunately the plastic is of the glossy variety, conspiring with the odd shape to make the CX275s very fiddly. Getting them into your ears properly is pain, but once they’re in they’re definitely comfortable enough to stay there.

Listening to them is less awkward. These Sennheisers put out a balanced sound with a well-organised sound stage.

The midrange is well separated. The treble is articulate, even if it is a bit hard. There’s a hefty dose of bass, although it lacks definition. It also lacks rhythmic precision, holding everything back and preventing a sense of cohesion.

Sennheiser CX 275s review: verdict
Overall, the CX275s feel a little clumsy. All the elements are present and accounted for, but they need to perform better together to create that sense of quality and panache.

There’s a nicely shaped button and microphone, but that still doesn’t justify the price.

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What Hi-Fi?

What Hi-Fi?, founded in 1976, is the world's leading independent guide to buying and owning hi-fi and home entertainment products. Our comprehensive tests help you buy the very best for your money, with our advice sections giving you step-by-step information on how to get even more from your music and movies. Everything is tested by our dedicated team of in-house reviewers in our custom-built test rooms in London, Reading and Bath. Our coveted five-star rating and Awards are recognised all over the world as the ultimate seal of approval, so you can buy with absolute confidence.

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