Headsets and headphones / Compare

Sennheiser HD 550 vs Sony ULT WEAR

A

Product A: Sennheiser

HD 550

51 of 161 known

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B

Product B: Sony

ULT WEAR

83 of 161 known

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All 161 fields

Every value links to where we found it.

Only differences

ASennheiser HD 550

BSony ULT WEAR

General

6 of 8 differ

Series

HD 5001Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 2 identifies HD 500 series.

ULT POWER SOUND10Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026

Model numbersiMaker identifiers for this exact model and its listed variants. Excludes sibling models and other generations.

HD 550, 7004551Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

WH-ULT900N2Maker product pagesony.co.uk/electronics/support/wireless-headphones-bluetooth-headphones/wh-ult900n/specificationsRead 5 October 2026Official support specification identity WH-ULT900N / ULT WEAR. Exact marketed model, not WH-XB910N.

GTIN / EAN

4260752333498, 8100912735861Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 Technical Data. Maker V02 EN, February 17 2025, mirrored by Geizhals.

Not available

AnnouncediThe maker's first announcement of this model. This is separate from first retail availability.

19 March 20252Press releasecdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/125ff0a6-9592-4c48-be8d-28f7b3273ca5/-/inline/no/Press_Release_Sennheiser_HD_550_EN.pdfRead 23 October 2026

11 April 202410Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026Maker launch date April 11, 2024. Planned Spring availability alone is not used as actual retail month.

Status

Available3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026

Available3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEARRead 5 October 2026Current Japanese maker store page offers purchase and next-day shipment.

PredecessoriThe model this one directly replaced, in the same line, tier and size, as the maker or a trusted review names it.

Not available

Not available

SuccessoriThe model that directly replaced this one, in the same line, tier and size. A revision such as a Slim or OLED model does not count when a next generation exists.

Not available

Not available

Launch price (US)iThe maker's US launch MSRP for the stated configuration, excluding tax. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

$299.952Press releasecdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/125ff0a6-9592-4c48-be8d-28f7b3273ca5/-/inline/no/Press_Release_Sennheiser_HD_550_EN.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 launch MSRP $299.95 USD before tax.

$199.9910Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026Exact Sony US launch release gives suggested retail price 199.99 USD for ULT WEAR. US price before local sales tax. Canada 349.99 and speaker prices are not substituted. Other markets without verified tax scope omitted.

Launch price (EU)iThe maker's euro launch price for the stated configuration, including VAT as published. Current store prices and later discounts do not qualify.

€299.92Press releasecdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/125ff0a6-9592-4c48-be8d-28f7b3273ca5/-/inline/no/Press_Release_Sennheiser_HD_550_EN.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 launch MSRP EUR 299.90, including VAT as published.

Not available

MarketsiISO country or region codes where this exact model or variant is sold. A source page's language does not establish availability.

Not available

US10Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026

ColoursiThe maker's own colour names

Black7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026Design describes black finish.

Black, Off White, Forest Gray3Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEARRead 5 October 2026Exact current three finish swatches, also confirmed US launch release.

Segment

Music3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Maker categorizes these as audiophile headphones for critical music listening.

Music10Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026

Design

2 of 7 differ

Form factor

Over-ear4Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 technical specifications: wired headband, over-ear circumaural, open-back.

Over-ear10Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026Maker explicitly balanced over-ear comfort and foldable headphone design.

Ear cup enclosureiClosed, open or semi-open acoustic enclosure. This does not describe how the headset folds.

Open4Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Closed1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Wearing style

Headband4Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Headband10Press releasesony.mediaroom.com/2024-04-11-Sony-Electronics-Introduces-ULT-POWER-SOUND-R-,-A-New-Series-of-Speakers-and-Headphones-to-bring-Massive-Bass-and-the-Ultimate-VibeRead 5 October 2026

FoldingiFlat means the ear cups rotate flat. Inward means the ear cups fold toward the headband.

None11Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd550Read 23 October 2026Specifications explicitly says collapsible No.

Flat and inward6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 10 expressly rotate both units flat and fold one toward headband. Maker feature 4 confirms folding and swivel structure.

Swivelling ear cupsiEar cups can rotate relative to the headband. Tilting alone does not count.

Yes11Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd550Read 23 October 2026Build description distinguishes sideways swivel from limited vertical tilt.

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

RGB lighting

Not available

Not available

Lighting zonesiNumber of independently controllable lighting areas across both ear cups.

Not available

Not available

Drivers and sound

10 of 20 differ

Driver type

Dynamic5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Dynamic1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Driver sizeiDiameter of the largest sound driver. Do not use the microphone capsule diameter.

38mm6Press releasecdn.uc.assets.prezly.com/125ff0a6-9592-4c48-be8d-28f7b3273ca5/-/inline/no/Press_Release_Sennheiser_HD_550_EN.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 1 custom 38 mm transducer.

40mm1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Drivers per sideiNumber of sound-producing transducers in one side, excluding microphones.

Not available

Not available

Diaphragm material

Laminate plastic foil7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026Design and features quotes maker on diaphragm construction.

Not available

Magnet

Not available

Neodymium1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Frequency response (wired or passive)iPublished acoustic range for wired listening, or the maker’s single range when no mode is distinguished. Power state and test standard belong in the source note.

Min6 HzMax39.5 kHz5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Min5 HzMax20 kHz1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker specification JEITA 5 Hz-20 kHz. Manual page 142 identifies the same numerical range as powered wired IEC response. No wireless or passive 40 kHz response is claimed.

Wireless audio transmission bandiFrequency range of audio transmitted over the wireless connection, not the acoustic response of the driver. Codec, sampling rate and bitrate conditions belong in the source note. When the maker gives a range per codec, the widest range is stored and its codec goes in the source note.

Not available

Min20 HzMax20 kHz1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026A2DP transmission range 20 Hz-20 kHz at 44.1 kHz sampling. This is not a measured acoustic bandwidth.

Impedance (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off value for a passive analog connection when the maker publishes both powered and passive values. Note the power state and test frequency.

150Ω5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

32Ω1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Passive wired power-off impedance 32 ohms at 1 kHz. Powered wired impedance is 314 ohms and is not mixed with the passive value.

Sensitivity (passive when specified)iUse the headset-off figure when both powered and passive values exist. The power or voltage reference, test distance and frequency belong in the source note.

106.7dB5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3: 106.7 dB SPL at 1 kHz / 1 Vrms.

100dB1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Passive wired power-off 100 dB/mW at 1 kHz. Powered wired sensitivity is 110 dB/mW.

Sensitivity referenceiPublished power or voltage reference for sensitivity. Do not assume 1 mW when the source gives only a dB value.

Per 1 V5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Per 1 mW1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

THD (claimed)iPublished distortion figure or numerical upper bound. The source note states any less-than sign and test level.

0.2%5Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3: less than 0.2% at 1 kHz / 90 dB SPL. Stored upper bound.

Not available

Max input power

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio sample rateiHighest supported digital audio sample rate over a USB cable or wireless dongle. This is not the microphone rate or acoustic frequency response.

Not available

Not available

Max digital audio bit depthiHighest published digital playback bit depth over a USB cable or wireless dongle.

Not available

Not available

DAC

Not available

Not available

Personalised soundiA manufacturer-supported hearing test or ear scan creates a device sound profile tailored to the listener. Generic equalizer adjustments do not count.

Not available

Not available

Onboard EQiCustom playback EQ profiles stored in the headset and applied without the host app running. Note supported active connections. Receiver-only or software-only EQ does not count.

No12Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Maker explicitly describes a direct analog signal path with no electronics. No powered noise cancellation, digital USB audio or stored electronic equalizer.

Not available

Custom EQ bandsiNumber of bands in the custom playback equalizer. Microphone EQ bands are excluded.

Not available

Not available

EQ presets

Not available

Not available

Volume limit

Not available

Not available

Spatial audio

2 of 3 differ

Spatial audio supportiNamed headset or host spatial-audio systems that the maker or reviewer explicitly supports. A platform feature may require compatible hardware, software or a separate licence.

Not available

360 Reality Audio5Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_3.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact product features identify 360 Reality Audio certified model. Manual page 79 requires compatible paid streaming service on iOS/Android, not a permanently included service license.

Spatial audio licence includediA paid spatial-audio licence is bundled or embedded. Compatibility with a separately purchased app does not count.

Not available

Not available

Head tracking

Not available

Yes5Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_3.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact head-tracking feature describes spatial sound with compatible Android devices and services. It is not universal tracking on all platforms.

Noise cancelling

7 of 10 differ

Active noise cancelling

No12Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Maker explicitly describes a direct analog signal path with no electronics. No powered noise cancellation, digital USB audio or stored electronic equalizer.

Yes4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026

ANC typeiFeedforward uses outside microphones. Feedback uses inside microphones. Hybrid uses both. Voice-call noise filtering is separate.

Not available

Hybrid4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Dual Noise Sensor paragraph specifies two feedforward plus two feedback microphones across both housings. Four physical ANC microphones.

ANC microphonesiTotal microphones used for active playback noise cancellation across both sides. Do not substitute the total physical or voice microphone count.

Not available

44Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Adaptive ANCiNoise cancellation automatically changes with the environment or fit. Manually choosing a level does not count.

Not available

Yes4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Behavior and location recognition automatically changes listening/noise-control settings. Manual page 108 expressly calls this auto noise adjustment Adaptive Sound Control. No automatic fit optimizer is inferred.

ANC levelsiNumber of adjustable cancellation strength steps. Off and transparency modes are excluded.

Not available

Not available

ANC attenuation (claimed)

Not available

Not available

Transparency mode

Not available

Yes4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Adjustable transparency

Not available

Yes4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Voice Focus on/off and adjustable ambient sound controls. Numerical ANC attenuation and ANC level count are not stated.

Conversation detectioniAudio pauses or lowers automatically when the wearer speaks. Voice assistant activation does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wind noise reduction

Not available

Yes4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Redesigned microphone surround reduces wind noise in ANC, ambient and call listening. Maker footnote explicitly says this structure does not reduce noise for the remote call participant.

Measured

5 of 21 differ

Frequency response notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Bass rolls off gently below 25 Hz. The response stays within 3 dB from 25 Hz to 2 kHz. Treble has a peak near 13 kHz.11Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd550Read 23 October 2026Flatbed rig with good seal, no smoothing. Reviewer applies microphone and low-frequency correction. Measurements published July 11 2025. Actual fit can differ.

The reviewed unit emphasizes bass. ULT modes further raise the low end, while the reviewer describes reduced upper-detail clarity.9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Same exact review unit and firmware, reviewer frequency-response analysis. No graph coordinates or rating converted into dB values.

Bass amountiReviewer’s bass deviation from its stated target. Positive is more bass. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Treble amountiReviewer’s treble deviation from its stated target. Positive is more treble. Target and test method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Deviation from targetiReviewer’s full-range error from its target curve. Do not substitute a regional bass or treble error.

Not available

Not available

Consistency between fittingsiReviewer’s standard deviation across repeated fittings. Test rig and fitting procedure belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Harmonic distortioniIndependently measured harmonic distortion, with test level and method in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Sound leakageiIndependently measured leakage at 30 cm. Playback level and method belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Measured noise isolationiIndependently measured attenuation. Positive values mean more noise reduction. ANC state, rig and frequency bands belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Noise isolation (measured, best)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Passive isolation (measured)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic quality notesiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

The recorded samples show wind sensitivity and pickup of nearby noise, despite the microphone windscreens.9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Same exact unit, recorded ideal, office, street, wind and reverberant samples. Qualitative observations do not establish numeric bandwidth or noise-handling scores.

Mic low-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic high-frequency extensioniMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Mic speech-to-noise ratioiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured latencyiEnd-to-end latency measured by a reviewer for a specific connection, platform and codec. Firmware, method and operating mode belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

2.4 GHz latency (measured, worst)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Measured battery lifeiReviewer’s continuous playback test. State the connection, ANC and lighting where known. Unknown settings stay omitted and are described in the source note.

ASennheiser HD 550

Not available

BSony ULT WEAR

Connection	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	32.58

Source9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Provided review unit tested six days, firmware 1.0.8, Headphones Connect 10.4.1. Standardized playback peaking at 75 dB lasted 32 h 35 min, stored 32.58 h rounded. ANC state, codec and ULT mode not explicitly named for this run and not guessed.

Battery life (measured, max)iMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

32.58h=CalculatedFrom Measured battery life

Clamping forceiMeasured by a reviewer, not claimed by the maker

Not available

Not available

Weight (measured)iIndependently weighed headset. A review that repeats the maker’s number does not qualify. Cable and microphone inclusion belong in the source note.

238g(8.4 oz)11Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd550Read 23 October 2026Measured specimen 238 g excluding cable. Maker claim stays 237 g.

Not available

Microphone

7 of 16 differ

MicrophoneiMain microphone used for speech. Secondary internal microphones may be described in the source note.

None7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026Base headphone has no microphone. Optional boom arm is excluded.

Built-in1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Microphone element

Not available

Electret condenser1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact microphone section explicitly electret condenser, not MEMS borrowed from the 1000X series.

Microphone pickup patterniUse the maker’s exact named pattern. Unidirectional does not establish whether the capsule is cardioid, supercardioid or hypercardioid.

Not available

Omnidirectional1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Voice microphonesiTotal microphones used for voice pickup or beamforming across both sides. ANC-only microphones are excluded.

Not available

24Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Voice pickup paragraph explicitly describes two microphones aligned toward the mouth. This is the voice system count, separate from four ANC microphones.

Total microphonesiEvery physical microphone across the headset, including call, ANC and calibration microphones. Shared microphones count once. Excludes microphones in charging cases or receivers, and vibration sensors. Use an explicitly published physical total, never a sum of overlapping role counts.

Not available

Not available

Mic frequency responseiAcoustic microphone response, not its digital sampling rate. Connection-specific ranges belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sensitivityiPublished microphone sensitivity. Reference such as dBV/Pa or dBFS, frequency and distance belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic signal-to-noiseiPublished microphone signal-to-noise ratio. Minimum or typical conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Mic sample rateiExplicitly published digital microphone capture or speech sampling rate. State the audio route in the source note, or say it is unpublished. Internal capture does not prove the effective rate on every connection. Acoustic bandwidth, playback rate and generic microphone-chip capability do not qualify.

Not available

Not available

Mic noise reductioniProcessing that removes noise from transmitted speech. Playback ANC and a directional microphone alone do not count.

Not available

DSP4Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_2.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker explicitly advanced voice signal processing with beamforming microphones and sensors. No AI inference from DSEE or generic processor branding.

Flip to mute

Not available

Not available

Mute button

Not available

Not available

Mute indicatoriPublished indication of microphone mute. mechanical_marker is a visible physical marker showing the microphone's mute-switch position. LED options require an electronic light. The in-line controller option is for a mute light on a cable remote.

Not available

Not available

Sidetone

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Adjustable sidetone

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 108 explicitly sidetone on/off through app. This proves a switch, not a continuously adjustable mix level.

Foam microphone windscreeniA foam cover for the voice microphone. An internal metal mesh pop filter does not count.

Not available

Not available

Connectivity

12 of 20 differ

Audio connectionsiConnections that carry playback audio. Charging or firmware USB alone does not count as USB audio.

Analog8Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-550-review-134419Read 23 October 2026

Analog, Bluetooth1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Analog source plugsiAnalog plug(s) supplied for the source device, including adapters. The headset-side jack is listed separately.

3.5 mm TRS, 6.35 mm8Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-550-review-134419Read 23 October 2026

3.5 mm TRS1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Maker stereo mini plug and manual three-contact plug illustration. USB-C is charging only.

Cable connector on headsetiConnection used by the playback cable at the headset. A fixed cable is not replaceable through a headset jack.

2.5 mm8Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-550-review-134419Read 23 October 2026Connectivity section explicitly identifies 2.5 mm locking headset end and 3.5 mm TRS source end.

3.5 mm1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Longest included cableiLength of the longest supplied cable, including charging and dongle cables. Individual cable lengths are listed in Cables included.

1.8m9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

1.2m1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 202614Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEARRead 8 October 2026The complete maker accessory list establishes supplied lengths of approximately 1.2 m and 0.2 m, so the existing 1.2 m longest-supplied-cable value is supported.

Headset USB plug or portiUSB plug or port on the headset or its included wired audio adapter. A charging-only USB port can appear here.

Not available

USB-C6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Audio over USB-C cableiPlayback through a USB-C cable or included wired USB-C audio adapter. A charging-only USB-C port does not count.

No12Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Maker explicitly describes a direct analog signal path with no electronics. No powered noise cancellation, digital USB audio or stored electronic equalizer.

No9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Connectivity explicitly no audio over USB. USB-C charging only.

Passive wired listeningiAnalog playback works with the headset powered off or its battery empty. An active analog converter that needs headset power does not count.

Yes3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Direct analog signal path with no electronics and no charging or pairing.

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 72 explicitly music when powered off. ANC and ULT bass control require power. Wired calls use phone microphone, not headphone voice pickup.

Wireless receiveriDedicated wireless audio receiver or dongle. A wired USB sound card does not count.

Not available

Not available

Wireless receiver connectoriPhysical USB connector on the receiver. Supplied extension cables and adapters are explained in the source note. Both means two native connector types.

Not available

Not available

Wireless range (claimed)iMaker’s advertised wireless range. Connection and indoor or outdoor conditions belong in the source note. Measured distance is not stored here.

Not available

10m1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Approximately 10 m line of sight, confirmed manual page 142. Environmental range is not guaranteed.

Bluetooth

Not available

5.21Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Bluetooth codecsiNamed Bluetooth audio codecs supported by this exact model. Host, firmware and operating-mode restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

SBC, AAC, LDAC1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

LE AudioiLE Audio playback support. Bluetooth Low Energy for app control alone does not count.

Not available

Not available

AuracastiAuracast broadcast audio support. Required phone, firmware and app conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Bluetooth multipointiCan remain connected to multiple Bluetooth source devices at once. Mixing Bluetooth with a proprietary dongle is a separate field. A maker's dual connection to two Bluetooth devices at once counts.

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 70-71 two simultaneously connected devices and one playing source. Original guide says LDAC is unavailable with multipoint enabled. Do not treat all codecs and simultaneous routes as unrestricted.

Multipoint devicesiNumber of Bluetooth source devices connected at once, not the number remembered for later pairing.

Not available

26Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Paired devices remembered

Not available

86Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 67 explicitly up to eight stored devices, with ninth overwriting oldest connection.

Mixes 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth audioiPlays both wireless audio streams at the same time. Automatic switching or Bluetooth standby does not count.

Not available

Not available

Fast pairing

Not available

Google Fast Pair, Microsoft Swift Pair7Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_5.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Google Fast Pair Android feature and Windows 10/11 Swift Pair feature. Pairing support does not establish every application compatibility.

Base station

Not available

Not available

Latency

None of 2 known

Low latency modeiA selectable mode intended to reduce audio delay. A low-latency connection without a distinct mode does not count.

Not available

Not available

Claimed latencyiMaker’s claimed delay for the stated connection and mode. Minimum claims and host restrictions belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Compatibility

2 of 3 differ

Compatible platformsiPlatforms with a documented audio path. This does not imply every connection or microphone function works. Platform editions must be checked individually.

PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026Comparison table explicitly lists these platforms. PC stored as Windows, corroborated by wired PC review. Mobile lacks named OS and is omitted.

Windows, macOS, Android, iOS6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Exact guide has separate Android, iPhone, Windows 10/11 and macOS pairing chapters. Universal analog jack availability is not used to infer console licensing or supported console microphones.

Connection per platformiOnly explicitly documented playback paths for the exact model. Microphone support is separate. Leave unknown microphone support omitted. An Xbox and a PlayStation edition of one headset can connect differently, so it is per variant.

ASennheiser HD 550

Not available

BSony ULT WEAR

Platform	Connection
Windows	Bluetooth
macOS	Bluetooth
Android	Bluetooth
iOS	Bluetooth

Source6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Official licence

Not available

Not available

Battery and charging

9 of 13 differ

Battery capacityiRated capacity of one headset battery. Do not use case, receiver or total multi-battery capacity.

Not available

Not available

Swappable batteryiBattery can be exchanged by the user as part of normal operation. Service or recycling disassembly does not count.

Not available

Not available

Batteries includediNumber of headset batteries supplied, including the one already installed.

Not available

Not available

Claimed battery lifeiMaker’s maximum playback time per stated connection, codec, ANC, spatial audio and lighting settings. Name the spatial processing mode and other conditions in the source note. Unknown settings stay omitted.

ASennheiser HD 550

Not available

BSony ULT WEAR

Connection	ANC	Codec	Hours (h)
Bluetooth	Yes	AAC	30
Bluetooth	No	AAC	50
Bluetooth	Yes	SBC	30
Bluetooth	No	SBC	50
Bluetooth	Yes	LDAC	25
Bluetooth	No	LDAC	40
Analog	Yes	Not available	30
Analog	No	Not available	50

Source12Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 8 October 2026Printed page 25 of the current exact ULT WEAR Help Guide gives music playback after a full charge. AAC and SBC each allow up to 30 hours with ANC on or 50 hours with ANC and Ambient Sound Mode off. LDAC allows 25 hours with ANC on or 40 hours with both modes off. Powered analog playback allows 30 hours with ANC on or 50 hours with both modes off. Each named codec is retained in its own row. Page 26 warns that Equalizer, DSEE, voice-assistant wake words, Service Link, and the ULT Bass Control function shorten these maxima. Playback volume and LDAC bitrate are unspecified. Communication durations are excluded. The maker guide explicitly covers the ULT WEAR reference, including original model YY2981.14Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEARRead 8 October 2026The Japanese product headline explicitly qualifies its AAC 30-hour ANC-on and 50-hour ANC-off claims with DSEE and equalizer off and other functions at their defaults. These named settings apply to that AAC claim. LDAC and SBC rows retain the separate current manual conditions, without inheriting this AAC-specific footnote.

Battery life (claimed, max)

Not available

50h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Battery life with ANC (claimed)

Not available

30h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Battery life without ANC (claimed)

Not available

50h=CalculatedFrom Claimed battery life

Charging port

Not available

USB-C6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Full charge timeiPublished time to fully charge a depleted headset. In-use charging can take longer.

Not available

210min6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 23 explicitly empty battery to full capacity in about 3.5 hours, 210 minutes, using supplied cable and adapter supplying at least 0.5 A.

Quick charge timeiCharge duration in the maker’s quick-charge claim. Read together with Quick charge playback.

Not available

10min6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Quick charge playbackiPlayback gained from Quick charge time. Charger power, codec, volume and ANC conditions belong in the source note.

Not available

5h6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 25 explicitly 10-minute charge for about 5 hours music. Same page separately gives 3 minutes for 90 minutes. No codec or ANC state stated for quick charge.

Use while charging

Not available

No6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 23-24 headset automatically turns off and all operations including playback are disabled while connected to charging power.

Charging dock or stand

Not available

Not available

Controls

5 of 6 differ

Controls

Not available

Buttons, Touch6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Volume control

None7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026No onboard controls or volume dial.

Touch1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Game and chat mixiBalances separate game and chat audio streams. Mixing Bluetooth and dongle source volume alone does not count. Supported platforms belong in the source note.

Not available

Not available

Remappable controlsiOn-device button, touch or dial functions can be reassigned. Changing EQ alone does not count.

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 108-109 voice assistant, Quick Access, touch control enable/disable and NC/ambient button cycle can be configured. This does not imply arbitrary physical button remapping.

Wear detection

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 15-17 built-in proximity sensor, automatic pause/resume and power off after removal.

Voice assistant

Not available

Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Google app, Siri6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Pages 99-107 separate Google Assistant, Alexa, Android Google app and iPhone Siri chapters. Google Assistant is Android only. Google app/Siri activate by touch, not their wake words. App/network/region eligibility and mutually exclusive assigned assistants apply.

Comfort and build

8 of 11 differ

Headband type

Padded7Reviewtechradar.com/gaming/sennheiser-hd-550-reviewRead 23 October 2026

Not available

Headband material

Synthetic leather3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026

Not available

Frame material

Plastic8Reviewsoundguys.com/sennheiser-hd-550-review-134419Read 23 October 2026Design describes plastic exterior and chassis.

Not available

Ear cup material

Steel mesh covers3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026Maker names steel covers. Entire cup construction is not claimed to be steel.

Matte plastic9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Exact use section explicitly matte plastic outside ear cups. No generic material is assigned to other parts.

Ear pad material

Synthetic velour9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Faux leather9Reviewsoundguys.com/sony-ult-wear-review-113412Read 5 October 2026Exact ear pad paragraph explicitly padding covered in faux leather.

Replaceable ear pads

Yes9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Not available

Ear pad attachmentiHow a replacement ear pad attaches to the ear cup, not how the decorative outer cover attaches. A press-fit or snap-on pad counts as clip.

Not available

Not available

Ear pad openingiUsable opening inside an ear pad, excluding the outer cushion. Depth is the internal space between pad surface and driver cover.

Width42Height71mm(1.7 × 2.8 in)11Measurementdiyaudioheaven.wordpress.com/measurements/brands-s-se/hd550Read 23 October 2026Specifications explicitly names inner pad width 42 mm and height 71 mm. Front/rear depth differs, so a single depth is omitted. SoundGuys labels 43 x 75 mm as ear cup dimensions without saying usable opening.

Not available

Ear tips included

Not available

Not available

Dust and water rating

Not available

Not available

User-replaceable parts

Ear pads, Audio cable9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 lists replacement cable and ear pads.

Not available

Software

3 of 3 differ

Companion app

Not available

Sony | Sound Connect8Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/feature_6.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact current product page names Sound Connect, formerly Headphones Connect. The 2024 manual uses the older app name. No app EQ profile persistence or complete preset list inferred from two example names.

App platforms

Not available

Android, iOS6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 110 Apple App Store and Google Play listings. Desktop computer playback is distinct from mobile companion app support.

User firmware updates

Not available

Yes6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026

Dimensions and weight

1 of 2 differ

Headset weightiPublished headset mass without detachable cable or microphone when stated. A fixed cable remains included. Any unqualified maker weight is identified in the source note.

237g(8.4 oz)9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 explicitly excludes cable.

255g(9 oz)1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Approximate maker weight excluding cable. SoundGuys metadata 253 g is not explicitly a scale measurement and is not substituted.

Headset dimensionsiBody size with headband upright and ear cups in their normal wearing position. Width is across the head, height is top to bottom, and depth is front to back. Folded or flat-swivel dimensions are not substituted.

Not available

Not available

Certifications

None of 3 known

Hi-Res Audio

Not available

Not available

Communication certifications

Not available

Not available

FCC ID

Not available

Not available

Other certifications

Not available

Not available

In the box

3 of 3 differ

In the box

HD 550 headphones, 1.80 m cable with 3.5 mm jack plug, 3.5 to 6.35 mm screw-on jack adapter, Drawstring bag, Safety guide9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026Page 3 complete box contents.

Sony ULT WEAR headphones, Carrying case, USB-A to USB-C cable, Headphone cable, Documents6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Page 9 exact included-item list. No AC adapter or airline adapter is listed.

Cables includediSupplied playback, charging, dongle and adapter cables. A permanently attached headset cable is included and named as fixed.

ASennheiser HD 550

Type	Length (m)	Count
2.5 mm locking headset plug to 3.5 mm stereo plug	1.8	1

Source9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

BSony ULT WEAR

Type	Length (m)	Count
USB-A to USB-C charging cable	0.2	1
3.5 mm stereo headphone cable	1.2	1

Source6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Printed page 9 supplies one USB-A to USB-C charging cable and one headphone cable. The complete individual lengths are published by the separate Japanese maker accessory list.14Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEARRead 8 October 2026The exact maker supplied-accessory list states a headphone cable approximately 1.2 m long and a USB-A to USB-C cable approximately 20 cm long. The original guide separately confirms one of each. This preserves the supplied charging-cable length without adopting optional aftermarket cables.

Carrying caseiSupplied carrying case or pouch. A retail carton does not count as a carrying case.

Soft9Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

Hard13Reviewexpertreviews.co.uk/technology/headphones-audio/sony-ult-wear-reviewRead 8 October 2026The exact ULT WEAR What do you get for the money section explicitly lists a supplied hard-shell carrying case. Original Sony Help Guide printed page 9 confirms that the case is included. Only this package fact is used from the review. Optional gSport bundles and other Sony models are excluded.

Links

Not compared

Product page

us.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-5503Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026

www.sony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026

Spec sheet

gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdf1Maker spec sheet (PDF)gzhls.at/blob/ldb/2/9/c/b/88e1c5f7d6f57d4eddbdef407b2427546a53.pdfRead 23 October 2026

www.sony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.html1Maker product pagesony.jp/headphone/products/ULT_WEAR/spec.htmlRead 5 October 2026Exact Japanese specification table directly opened, decoded CP932. Closed dynamic 40 mm dome, neodymium magnet. No diaphragm material or physical drivers-per-side count is inferred.

Manual

www.richersounds.com/content/product_files/HD550.pdf10Owner's manualrichersounds.com/content/product_files/HD550.pdfRead 23 October 2026Maker safety guide HD 505 / HD 550 with connection, headband adjustment and ear pad replacement illustrations. Retailer mirror because current maker Download article is empty.

helpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdf6Owner's manualhelpguide.sony.net/mdr/2981/v1/en/print.pdfRead 5 October 2026Full 144-page English Help Guide directly opened. Runtime table page 25 and continuation page 26 visually checked. Exact ULT WEAR, copyright 2024, reference 5-055-975-11(2).

EPREL registration numberiId in the EU energy label database. Each size or model of a series has its own id, so it is per variant.

Not available

Not available

Warranty

1 of 1 differ

Manufacturer warranty (source market)iThe maker's warranty period for the exact SKU or configuration and market named in the source note. It applies only to that stated market, not every regional variant. Statutory consumer rights are excluded. The base term is stored. An extension that needs registration goes in the source note.

2years3Maker product pageus.sennheiser-hearing.com/products/hd-550Read 23 October 2026US maker page includes a 2-year manufacturer warranty.

Not available

Both are also in the API. Back to all headsets and headphones.