Sennheiser RS 175 Review

The Sennheiser RS 175 wireless headphones are designed for home entertainment, offering an immersive audio experience with a focus on sound quality and ease of use. These headphones are ideal for stationary use, providing features like dynamic bass boost and virtual surround sound modes. They are constructed with high-quality plastic, which keeps them lightweight and durable, though the material might not feel as premium as some might expect for the price.

Sound performance is impressive, with a frequency response of 17 Hz to 22,000 Hz, and features like Bass Boost and Surround Sound enhance the listening experience. Connectivity is reliable, utilizing a 2.4 GHz RF system with a range of up to 328 feet, though it lacks Bluetooth support. Comfort is generally good, with padded ear cups and an adjustable headband, although the fit can be snug and the weight noticeable during extended use.

The RS 175 offers up to 18 hours of battery life, with a transmitter base that doubles as a charging dock. However, charging takes approximately 8.5 hours. While it excels in sound quality, the lack of active noise cancellation and Bluetooth connectivity might be a drawback for some users. Overall, the Sennheiser RS 175 is a strong choice for those prioritizing audio excellence in a home setting, though it may not suit those seeking more portable or versatile options.

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If you like this review, you might also like our review on the Sennheiser HD 490 Pro or Sennheiser HD 620S or Sennheiser HD 560S.

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Looking for a pair of headphones that deliver exceptional sound without the hassle of wires? The Sennheiser RS 175 might just be what you need. Tailored for home entertainment enthusiasts, these wireless headphones promise an immersive audio experience, ideal for everything from binge-watching your favorite series to enjoying movies and TV shows.

With a focus on ease of use and superior sound quality, the Sennheiser RS 175 aims to elevate your listening experience. But, do they live up to the hype? In this review, we’ll explore the ins and outs of these headphones, examining their design, performance, and much more.

While these headphones boast many strengths, it's worth noting that they are primarily designed for stationary use, which might not suit those looking for something more portable or suitable for outdoor activities. However, if you're after a solid pair of wireless headphones for home use, these could be your perfect match.

The design and build quality of the Sennheiser RS 175 are quite impressive, offering a sleek and modern look that fits well with any home entertainment setup. The headphones are primarily constructed from high-quality plastic, which keeps them lightweight yet durable. This is great for those long binge-watching sessions or when you want to kick back and listen to music for hours on end without feeling weighed down.

One of the standout features in the design is the on-headphone controls. These buttons are conveniently placed and allow easy access to volume adjustments, dynamic bass boost, and virtual surround sound mode settings. It's super handy not having to reach for a remote, especially when you're deep into your favorite show or an intense gaming session.

The headphones come with a transmitter base that doubles as a charging dock. It's a neat addition that keeps your headphones in an upright position, making them easy to grab and store. However, the transmitter is a bit bulky, which might be a downside if you're tight on space or prefer a more minimalist setup.

The overall build quality is sturdy, and while they feel robust, the plastic construction might not give the premium feel some might expect at this price point. Despite this, the headphones are built to withstand everyday use without showing wear and tear too quickly.

In a nutshell, the design and build quality strike a good balance between functionality and aesthetics, though some might wish for materials that feel a bit more luxurious. But hey, they definitely get the job done and look good doing it!

If you're all about that audio quality, the Sennheiser RS 175 is bound to impress. This wireless headphone set delivers a robust and immersive sound experience that is perfect for both music lovers and movie buffs. The sound is crisp with a well-balanced frequency response, ranging from 17 Hz to 22,000 Hz, ensuring that you catch every detail in your favorite tunes or films.

The headphones feature a Bass Boost mode, which enhances the low-end frequencies, making the bass sound punchy without overwhelming the other frequencies. This is particularly great for action-packed movies or bass-heavy music genres. Additionally, the Surround Sound mode widens the soundstage, providing a more theater-like experience. It's like having your own personal cinema at home! However, if you’re an audiophile who prefers a flat, studio-like sound signature, you might find the bass emphasis a tad too strong.

While the sound clarity is generally excellent, some users might notice a slight distortion at maximum volumes, especially with very bass-heavy tracks. Overall, the Sennheiser RS 175 offers a rich and dynamic sound profile that caters well to a variety of listening preferences. Whether you're jamming out to your favorite playlist or binge-watching a series, these headphones aim to elevate your auditory experience.

Connectivity

The connectivity of the Sennheiser RS 175 is pretty sweet, especially if you hate dealing with cords. These headphones operate on a wireless 2.4 GHz RF (radio frequency) system, which is a bit different from the usual Bluetooth most folks are used to. This means you get a solid connection that's less prone to dropouts, and it can handle a longer distance, too.

Range

The range is quite impressive. You can wander up to about 100 meters (that's approximately 328 feet, line of sight) from the transmitter and still enjoy your tunes or movie without any hiccups. It's perfect for those who like to roam around the house while listening to their favorite tracks. Imagine doing chores or grabbing a snack from the kitchen without missing a beat!

Transmitter

The transmitter doubles as a charging station, so it keeps things neat and tidy. It connects to your audio source via digital optical or analog 1/8" (3.5 mm) stereo input, making it versatile for different setups. However, keep in mind that it lacks a USB connection, which might be a downside for some users who prefer a more modern approach. Pairing the headphones with the transmitter is a breeze. They automatically connect once you turn them on, so you don’t have to deal with any complicated settings. But here's a heads-up: since it’s not Bluetooth, you won’t be able to connect these directly to your phone or tablet without the transmitter. Overall, the connectivity and range of the Sennheiser RS 175 are spot-on for home use. Just remember, if you're looking for something to use on-the-go with your mobile devices, these might not be your best bet.

When it comes to comfort and fit, the Sennheiser RS 175 does a pretty solid job. These headphones are designed to be worn for extended periods, which is a big plus if you love binge-watching your favorite shows or enjoy long listening sessions.

Comfort Features

The ear cups are generously padded, although the material is not as soft or premium as some other headphones in their price range. They're not too tight, so you won't feel like your head's in a vice, which is always a relief. The headband is also padded and adjusts smoothly, so it fits a variety of head sizes without any fuss.

Fit Considerations

Despite their comfortable design, the headphones are a bit on the heavier side. This might not be an issue for everyone, but if you're sensitive to weight, you might notice it during longer use. However, the pressure they exert around your ears is not properly distributed, which can lead to a little soreness between your ear lobes and your jaw after extended use.

Over-Ear Design

The closed, circumaural design helps in isolating noise, which is great for immersive listening. However, if you're in a warmer environment, your ears might get a bit toasty after a while. It's not a deal-breaker, but something to keep in mind. Overall, the Sennheiser RS 175 offers a good balance of comfort and fit. While there's room for improvement in terms of weight and pressure distribution, the padded ear cups and adjustable headband make it a comfy choice for most users.

In the box, you'll find everything you need to get started with your new headphones. First up, there's the Sennheiser RS 175 headphones themselves, looking sleek and ready for action. Alongside the headphones, you'll get the TR 175 transmitter base, which doubles as a charging dock. This base is crucial as it connects the headphones to your audio source wirelessly.

You'll also find a power supply unit with multiple adapters, so you're covered no matter where you are in the world. Sennheiser includes both an analog audio cable and an optical digital cable, offering you flexibility depending on your setup. The optical cable is a nice touch, ensuring you can connect to devices that support digital audio output for potentially better sound quality.

In addition, there’s a set of rechargeable AAA batteries included. These pop into the headphones themselves, and they’re what you charge when the headphones are docked on the transmitter base.

You'll also find a quick start guide and a warranty leaflet. The guide is handy, especially if you're not familiar with setting up wireless headphones. However, the documentation could be a bit more detailed, especially for those who might need more guidance on optimizing sound settings.

Overall, the box is well-packed with essentials, though a carrying case or pouch could have been a nice addition for those who like to keep their gear protected and tidy.

Battery Life and Charging When it comes to battery life, the Sennheiser RS 175 doesn’t disappoint. You can expect up to 18 hours of continuous playtime on a single charge, which is pretty solid for wireless headphones. Whether you're binge-watching your favorite series or diving into an epic gaming session, these headphones are built to last through lengthy periods of use.

Charging is straightforward. The headphones come with a base station that doubles as a charging dock. Just place the headphones on the dock, and they start charging automatically. It's super convenient because you don't have to fuss with cables or connectors. However, there is a slight downside. The charging time is a bit on the longer side.

It can take approximately 8.5 hours to fully charge from empty, so it’s best to plan ahead if you’re gearing up for a full day of use. The initial charge, however, takes about 16 hours to optimize the battery performance. If you’re someone who tends to forget to charge devices, the charging dock’s design makes it easy to integrate into your routine. Just pop the headphones back on the dock when you're done using them, and you’ll never have to worry about running out of juice unexpectedly. In summary, the Sennheiser RS 175 offers reliable battery life and a hassle-free charging solution, though the charging time could be improved.

When you're in the market for wireless headphones, it's always good to see how your options stack up against each other. Let's take a look at how the Sennheiser RS 175 fares against some of its competitors.

Comparison with Sony WH-L600

The Sony WH-L600 is another popular choice in the wireless headphone category. Both models offer impressive sound quality, but the Sennheiser RS 175 tends to have a slightly richer bass profile when the bass boost mode is activated, which is great for bass enthusiasts. On the other hand, the Sony WH-L600 offers a broader sound field, thanks to its virtual surround sound feature, making it a solid choice for movie buffs.

In terms of connectivity, the RS 175 uses RF technology, which provides a more stable connection without the common dropouts found in Bluetooth models. The Sony WH-L600 also uses RF and offers a wireless range of up to 98 feet, while the RS 175 has a range of up to 328 feet.

Comparison with Bose QuietComfort 35 II

The BOSE QuietComfort 35 II is often praised for its active noise-canceling abilities, which the RS 175 lacks. If you're looking for complete isolation from ambient sounds, Bose might have the edge. However, the RS 175 excels with a more immersive home theater experience due to its surround sound modes.

Battery life is another area where the Sennheiser RS 175 shines, offering around 18 hours of playtime compared to the Bose's 20 hours. While the difference is minor, it’s worth considering depending on how often you plan to use them.

Comparison with Avantree HT4189

Meanwhile, the Avantree HT4189 provides a more budget-friendly option. While it’s not quite as high-end in terms of sound quality, it does offer Bluetooth connectivity, which some users prefer for its versatility with multiple devices. The RS 175, however, provides a more immersive audio experience, making it a better choice for audiophiles.

Ultimately, the Sennheiser RS 175 offers a unique combination of features that cater well to those who prioritize sound quality and a stable connection for home use. While others might excel in portability or noise cancellation, the RS 175 remains a strong contender for anyone focusing on audio excellence in a home setting.

Video by: Sennheiser

In wrapping up, the Sennheiser RS 175 delivers a solid package for those looking to enhance their home audio experience without the hassle of wires. With its impressive sound performance, these headphones are a fantastic choice for users who want to enjoy music, movies, or gaming with rich, immersive sound.

The design and build quality are commendable, providing a utilitarian look that feels premium. They offer comfort for long listening sessions, although some might find the fit a bit snug and slightly heavier than similar models, especially if worn for extended periods.

The connectivity is generally reliable, using RF technology which offers low latency, making them great for watching TV or gaming. However, the lack of Bluetooth and potential interference from devices on the 2.4GHz spectrum might be a consideration for those who prefer more versatile connectivity options or need to avoid interference.

When considering the battery life, these headphones perform well, offering up to 18 hours of uninterrupted listening. Charging is straightforward, using the transmitter base that also acts as a dock and charging station.

In comparison to some competitors, the RS 175 stands out in sound quality but might not match up in terms of features like active noise cancellation. If you're seeking top-tier wireless headphones with a focus on sound and comfort, they are worth considering. But if you need more advanced features, you might want to explore other options.

Overall, the Sennheiser RS 175 offers an excellent listening experience with a few minor limitations. Whether you're watching movies or diving into your favorite tunes, these headphones provide a quality audio journey.

• Can I use the Sennheiser RS 175 with my TV?

  Yes, you can connect these headphones to your TV using the included transmitter. It supports both digital optical and analog audio inputs, making it compatible with most modern televisions.

• How long does the battery last?

  The headphones offer up to 18 hours of battery life on a full charge.

• What is the wireless range?

  The RS 175 has a wireless range of up to 328 feet (100 meters) in line of sight. However, walls and other obstacles might reduce this range somewhat.

• Are the ear cushions replaceable?

  Yes, the ear cushions are replaceable. Over time, they might wear out, but replacements are available to keep your headphones feeling fresh and comfy.

• Is there any audio delay with these headphones?

  The RS 175 is designed to minimize audio delay, but some users might notice a slight lag when watching TV or movies. This is common with many wireless headphones, but it's generally minor.

• Can I use the headphones with other devices?

  Yes, aside from your TV, you can connect these headphones to any audio device that supports optical or analog output, including computers and stereo systems.

• Is the setup straightforward?

  Setting up the headphones is relatively easy. Just connect the transmitter to your audio source, power it on, and pair it with the headphones. The user-friendly design makes it easy to set up and enjoy the RS 175.

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