Buzz
Overall Review
Hearing that Neumann had launched their first-ever headphones, we expected something extraordinary. Known for their high-end studio microphones and monitors, this German manufacturer sets high standards.
Headphones were uncharted territory for them. However, given that their parent company is Sennheiser, their debut was only a matter of time.
Neumann engineers utilized Sennheiser's component stock to assemble the NDH 20, basing it on the now-discontinued Sennheiser HD 630VB, which was acclaimed as a 'Best Buy' in a 2016 group test.
The NDH 20 lacks the variable bass control found in its counterpart but offers a detachable cable missing in the HD 630VB. Designed for studio use, it boasts a high impedance of 150 ohms, allowing multiple headphones to be connected to an amplifier without degrading its impedance to unmanageable levels. Sensitivity is at 114 dB, making them usable with mobile phones. However, when connected to an iPhone via a Lightning adapter at maximum volume, the sound is just loud enough.
We appreciate the headphones' design and their collapsible nature, offering a more exclusive feel compared to the HD 630VB.
The fit is overall good, slightly tight around the ears with somewhat stiff active foam padding, but allowing for more breathability compared to other closed variants, benefiting long studio sessions.
Studio headphones bring to mind a linear frequency curve and a highly analytical and accurate sound, akin to the flagship Sennheiser HD 800S, without venturing into the HE 1's electric resistance territory priced in the half-million kroner range.
Yet, the NDH 20 is not linear, featuring excessive bass, especially in the upper bass register, and lacks airiness at the top, resulting in muffled highs and details, as well as vocal clarity for both male and female voices. Neumann has nearly mastered blending a bold sound with minimal airiness.
Conclusion
Neumann's debut headphones dazzle in appearance and outshine the Sennheiser HD 630VB in quality.
However, the NDH 20 doesn't offer an engaging listening experience. No matter the genre, listener fatigue sets in quickly, with instruments lacking in complexity and the overall soundstage feeling flat and uninteresting. They also deliver a noticeably loud output.
It doesn't take long to realize the NDH 20 has potential for great sound. There are qualities present, but the end sound result is too underwhelming. We're hopeful for Neumann to try again, as they surely can do better.
