Sennheiser launches HD 480 PRO closed-back headphones for studio and live use

By AI, Created 10:16 AM UTC, May 27, 2026, /AGP/ – Sennheiser has introduced the HD 480 PRO, a closed-back headphone line aimed at recording, tracking and monitoring in studios, live venues and on the move. The model is designed to deliver tighter bass, stronger isolation and a more comfortable fit, with pricing starting at AED 1,549 in the UAE.

Why it matters: - Sennheiser is targeting a persistent weak spot in closed-back headphones: bass accuracy without sacrificing isolation. - The HD 480 PRO is positioned for professionals who need reliable monitoring in studios, live audio environments and mobile workflows. - The launch expands Sennheiser’s 400 series with a closed-back option intended to mirror the sound of the open HD 490 PRO as closely as possible.

What happened: - Sennheiser launched the HD 480 PRO, its top-of-the-range closed-back headphone for studio and live environments. - The company released the model on May 27, 2026, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. - The HD 480 PRO is designed for recording, tracking, monitoring and mixing. - Sennheiser also introduced an HD 480 PRO Plus version that swaps the bag for a travel case.

The details: - The HD 480 PRO uses a closed, circumaural, dynamic design with 38 mm transducers. - The frequency response runs from 3 to 28,700 Hz at -10 dB. - Sensitivity is listed at 107 dB SPL at 1 kHz/1 Vrms and 98 dB at 1 kHz, 1 mW. - Maximum SPL reaches 130 dB at 1 kHz with 5% THD. - THD is below 0.5% at 1 kHz and 100 dB SPL. - Impedance is 130 ohms at 1 kHz. - Power rating is 300 mW for 100 hours of noise as per IEC 60268. - The headphones weigh 272 g without cable. - Sennheiser lists an operating temperature range of 0°C to +50°C and storage range of -25°C to +70°C. - Relative humidity ranges from 10% to 80% non-condensing for operation and 10% to 90% for storage. - The retail price is AED 1,549 for the HD 480 PRO. - The HD 480 PRO Plus retails at AED 1,749. - The standard package includes recording earpads, a 3-meter coiled cable and a carrying bag. - Available accessories include replacement recording ear pads, replacement coiled cable, 1.8-meter straight cable, 3-meter straight cable, balanced cable, replacement travel case, storage case and replacement bag. - The detachable cable can be worn on either the left or right side. - The left and right earcups are braille-marked.

Between the lines: - Sennheiser is leaning on product design and fit as much as audio performance. - The company says the headphones remove pressure points and work comfortably for users wearing glasses. - The HD 480 PRO uses passive sound shielding and a design package Sennheiser calls the Vibration Attenuation System to reduce vibration, reflections and distortion. - The ultralight voice coils are intended to improve realism and dynamics. - Sennheiser says the HD 480 PRO and HD 490 PRO share patented features, including Special Axes Geometry and a comfort zone for glasses. - The closed-back model is aimed at isolation-heavy tasks such as vocal tracking, monitoring and FoH reference work. - The open HD 490 PRO is framed as the better fit for mixing in quiet environments.

What’s next: - Sennheiser is now selling the HD 480 PRO through its professional audio channel. - The company is also offering the HD 480 PRO Plus variant and a range of replacement parts and cables. - High-resolution images and additional photos are available here.

The bottom line: - The HD 480 PRO is Sennheiser’s new closed-back answer for professionals who want isolation, comfort and a more truthful low end in one headphone.