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Add to SafariWhen comparing Sennheiser HD380 Pro vs Audio-Technica ATH-ANC23, the Slant community recommends Sennheiser HD380 Pro for most people. In the question“What are the best headphones?” Sennheiser HD380 Pro is ranked 70th while Audio-Technica ATH-ANC23 is ranked 72nd. The most important reason people chose Sennheiser HD380 Pro is:
The tight clamp on the 380HD helps create a seal that prevents quite a bit of sound leakage.
Specs
Question Ranking
Pros
Pro Very small amount of leakage
The tight clamp on the 380HD helps create a seal that prevents quite a bit of sound leakage.
Pro Great sound quality with deep bass and lively highs
These headphones, as far as reference or pro-quality headphones go, are fun sounding. There is a slight boost to the lower frequencies which adds fullness and depth to the bass. The mids are also full-sounding, but there is a peak at the upper mid frequencies which can make guitars in heavy music sound harsh. The highs have good detail to them, but the peak in the top frequencies can also make the sound a bit grainy.
Pro Big ear cups that sit well over your ears
The 380s sit well over your ears and do not typically touch them when positioned correctly. This helps make them comfortable as the clamping force is distributed over a wide area, not directly on your ears.
Pro Removable cable
The HD380 Pro is quite portable thanks to the detachable cable. Also, the included cable has a specially designed locking mechanism which prevents it from being detached accidentally.
Pro Does not require a powerful amp for optimal sound
The HD380 Pro can produce great sound even paired with low power amps. Some headphones require expensive amps to sound properly, but for these, even entry-level portable amps are sufficient.
Pro Clamshell case included
These headphones can easily be brought along while traveling and spending time outdoors thanks to the included carrying case. The solid, clam shell design gives the headphones extra protection from impact and scratches.
Pro Blocks a lot of outside sounds
The large ear cups and the strong clamp allow for impressive passive noise cancellation.
Pro Good soundstage
These headphones have fairly wide soundstage, despite being closed back.
Pro Can fold to a more compact size
The ear cups of the HD380 Pro can be folded up into the headband. This reduces these headphones' size and footprint, making these much easier to fit inside a bag.
Pro Balanced and clear sound
These headphones will sound great with a practically all genres of music. The highs are slightly rolled-off, but still present a good level of detail, so these headphones are not harsh. The mids are warm, while the bass is controlled instead of boomy.
Pro Extensive accessory bundle
The ATH-ANC23 offers good value for money due to the extras that you get. The accessory pack includes a carrying pouch, the active noise cancelling in-line control hub, an alkaline battery, an airplane adapter and a number of eartips, including foam ones, which provide a better seal and noise isolation than the standard silicone tips.
Pro Good active noise cancelling
The active noise canceling feature blocks out high and mid frequency noise quite well. Voices and environmental noise aren’t likely to interfere with your music. Loud, low-frequency noises like jet engines may still seep through though, so these are not the best for long flights.
Cons
Con Very strong clamping force
The 380HDs have a very strong clamp. This helps the headphones achieve better sound isolation and minimal sound leak, although some will find the clamp very uncomfortable. Fortunately there are also many who will never notice this at all and find the 380HDs very comfortable.
Con The control unit to earpiece cable may be too short
If you are a tall person, you may have a problem positioning the large active noise cancelling module. The wire connecting the module to the earpieces is quite short. This can make it a little difficult to clip the module to your belt or pocket, which can get annoying.
Con Noise cancelling is not very effective on low-frequency noise
You may still clearly hear low-frequency noise, even with active noise cancelling turned on. The feature is effective on high and mid frequency noise, but not that well on low-frequency sounds. Loud engine noises may still mix in with your music.
