Focal Azurys vs Sennheiser HD 800 S
The short answer
At current verified prices, the Focal Azurys costs about $1,050.95 less.
- Choose the Focal Azurys if: Analog Closed-Back Listening
- Choose the Sennheiser HD 800 S if: Private-Room Wired Listening
Specifications
| Spec | Focal Azurys | Sennheiser HD 800 S |
|---|---|---|
| Workflow type | Wired Closed Back Dedicated | Wired Open Back Dedicated |
| Exact open-back or closed-back construction | Circum-aural closed-back headphones. | Open-back dynamic circumaural headphones. |
| Mass, configuration and conflicting evidence | 306 g, excluding carrying case. | 330 g; manufacturer-listed headphone weight (configuration basis not further specified). Required conditions: manufacturer-listed; configuration basis not further specified. |
| Manufacturer nominal impedance | 26 ohm | 300 ohm |
| Sensitivity with dB/mW or dB/V reference | 100 dB SPL / 1 mW at 1 kHz Required conditions: 1 mW reference. | 102 dB SPL (1 V) Required conditions: 1 V reference. |
| Included cables, terminations and restrictions | Includes a 1.25 m mini-jack cable with in-line remote and microphone; analog wired connection. | Includes 3 m cables with unbalanced 6.35 mm and balanced 4.4 mm terminations; connection is wired only. |
Focal Azurys
Pros
- Passive wired operation for analog listening
- Closed-back format with corroborated exact-model review evidence
Cons
- Limited passive isolation
- Seal-sensitive bass and individual fit
- Outward leakage can matter in quiet rooms
An evidence-qualified recommendation for analog closed-back use, not a substitute for ANC. Its suitability depends on a comfortable seal, acceptable leakage in your room and compatibility with your intended source. Manufacturer price was not checked; prices shown are verified retailer offers.
Full Focal Azurys review →Sennheiser HD 800 S
Pros
- Dedicated wired, open-back format for private-room listening
- Exact-model assessment corroborated across separate publisher groups
Cons
- Leakage and weak isolation restrict room suitability
- Comfort and glasses interaction vary by listener
- Intended-source headroom needs confirmation
An evidence-qualified recommendation for private-room wired listening, provided leakage and weak isolation suit the space. Check comfort with your own glasses and confirm adequate headroom from the intended source rather than assuming compatibility. Manufacturer price was not checked; prices shown are verified retailer offers.
Full Sennheiser HD 800 S review →Both products are part of our guide Best High-End Headphones for US Buyers: A Buyer-Fit Guide, where you can see every pick, how we score and current prices from each retailer.