Sennheiser's advanced HDV 820 headphone amp/DAC features a substantial £600 discount
Sennheiser HDV 820: A High-End Headphone Amplifier and Desktop DAC
The Sennheiser HDV 820 is a top-tier headphone amplifier and desktop DAC (digital-to-analog converter) that offers exceptional digital-to-analog conversion quality. Featuring an advanced ESS SABRE32 DAC chip, it supports 32-bit resolution and sampling rates up to 384 kHz, alongside DSD256 playback at 12.3 MHz[1][2][4].
Key performance features include:
Sound Quality
The HDV 820 delivers an extremely refined, crisp, and precise sound signature. It reveals nuances such as different instrument timbres and spatial cues in an orchestra, excelling at organizing and weaving together complex musical elements into a cohesive, spacious soundstage with composure during large dynamic shifts[1][2]. Although it may lack the very sharp attack or bite compared to the absolute top competitors, it offers a smooth, sophisticated listening experience emphasizing refinement and clarity[1][2].
Amplifier Capabilities
The amplifier section supports multiple headphone connection options, including 6.3mm jack integrated into a three-pin XLR, four-pin XLR, and balanced 4.4mm Pentaconn, allowing compatibility with a broad array of headphones[1][2]. The HDV 820 can also serve as a preamplifier with balanced and single-ended analog inputs and outputs, plus gain adjustment to match power amps or active speakers, making it versatile for various setups[1][2].
Connectivity
Digital inputs include USB, optical, and coaxial, all supporting high-resolution formats (up to 32-bit/384kHz PCM and DSD256). Analog inputs and outputs are both balanced (XLR) and unbalanced (RCA), affording flexibility for integration with different audio sources and systems[1][2]. The HDV 820 also boasts two additional connection options: a four-pin XLR and a pair of 4.4mm Pentaconn jacks on the front[1].
Design
The HDV 820 features a visually appealing anodized black finish with subtle white LED lighting, designed to aesthetically complement Sennheiser’s flagship headphones (notably the HD 800 S), enhancing both form and function for desktop audiophile use[1].
In summary, the Sennheiser HDV 820 stands out for its top-tier ESS SABRE DAC, rich connectivity options, smooth and detailed sonic performance with excellent dynamic control, and a design that combines high-end aesthetics with practical usability in audiophile headphone amplification and DAC conversion[1][2][4].
The Sennheiser HDV 820 is currently available with a £600 saving at Scan, making it £1499[3]. It has been praised for its versatility, solid build quality, and refined sound performance in reviews, where it was used with both the Sennheiser HD800S headphones and the Beyerdynamic T1[5]. The HDV 820 supports up to DSD256 and 32-bit/384kHz PCM music files, making it compatible with a wide range of high-resolution audio formats[1][2].
- The speaker mentioned the Sennheiser HDV 820's ability to reveal nuances like different instrument timbres and spatial cues in an orchestra, showing its exceptional sound quality.
- An audiophile considering gadgets might be interested in buying the Sennheiser HDV 820, as it includes an advanced amplifier section with multiple headphone connection options.
- In a review of the Sennheiser HDV 820, it was observed that the headphone amplifier and desktop DAC offered a smooth, sophisticated listening experience with refinement and clarity.
- For those looking to upgrade their technology, the Sennheiser HDV 820 is currently available with a £600 deal from Scan, making it an attractive option with its save-worthy price of £1499.
- With its high-end design and rich connectivity options, including digital inputs like USB, optical, and coaxial, the Sennheiser HDV 820 is not just an amplifier and DAC, but also a stylish addition to any tech enthusiast's gadget collection.
