Sennheiser HDV 820 black

The Sennheiser HDV 820 is a preamplifier and headphone amplifier designed for discerning audio enthusiasts. Made in Germany, it reflects Sennheiser’s expertise in designing high-end audio equipment.

A cutting-edge digital core

At the heart of the HDV 820 is a latest-generation ESS SABRE32 digital-to-analog converter (DAC). This high-end DAC offers an impressive 32-bit resolution and supports sampling rates of up to 384 kHz for PCM signals. It can also process DSD256 files up to 12.3 MHz, ensuring compatibility with the most advanced high-resolution audio formats.

This advanced conversion technology allows the HDV 820 to deliver exceptionally clear sound, with an extended dynamic range and extremely low distortion. The result is remarkably pure sound reproduction, capable of revealing the smallest details in your favorite recordings.

Versatile connectivity for every need

The HDV 820 stands out for its versatile connectivity. On the input side, it offers three digital options: a USB type B port for connecting to a computer, an optical input, and a coaxial input. These multiple inputs make it easy to connect a wide variety of audio sources, whether a CD player, a network audio player, or a computer.

For analog sources, the HDV 820 offers a balanced XLR input and an unbalanced RCA input, the latter featuring adjustable gain. This flexibility allows the HDV 820 to integrate seamlessly into any existing audio setup.

On the output side, the unit is equally well equipped. It features a combined XLR3/6.3 mm headphone output with a NEUTRIK adapter, a balanced XLR4 output, and two balanced 4.4 mm Pentaconn outputs. This last option, compliant with the new JEITA standard, offers excellent signal transmission quality for compatible headphones. A balanced XLR line output completes the package, allowing the HDV 820 to be used as a preamplifier in a hi-fi system.

World-class amplification

The HDV 820 does more than provide high-quality digital-to-analog conversion; it also offers exceptional amplification. The amplifier circuit, inherited from the HDVD 800 model and optimized for this new version, delivers generous power while maintaining an extremely low harmonic distortion level of less than 0.001%.

With a minimum output power of 480 mW into 600 ohms, the HDV 820 can effectively drive even the most demanding headphones. Its impressive dynamic range of over 115 dB into 600 Ω faithfully reproduces the most subtle nuances of music, from the softest passages to the most powerful crescendos.

An elegant, functional design

The HDV 820 features an understated, elegant design that perfectly complements Sennheiser’s high-end headphones, particularly the HD 800 S. Its black anodized aluminum housing gives it a premium look while providing excellent protection against electromagnetic interference.

The uncluttered front panel is dominated by a large volume knob, offering precise, tactile control. Discreet white LEDs clearly indicate the unit’s status and the selected source, completing the overall refined aesthetic.

A significant evolution

The HDV 820 represents a notable evolution from its predecessor, the HDVD 800. Although it retains the analog system and power amplifier of the previous model, these components have been carefully optimized to deliver even better performance.

The main improvement lies in the integration of the new ESS SABRE32 DAC, which offers superior resolution and high-resolution format processing capabilities. This upgrade allows the HDV 820 to take full advantage of modern, high-quality audio recordings while improving the reproduction of more conventional audio sources.

Technical specifications

Overview and audio conversion

• Brand and model: SENNHEISER HDV 820.
• Type: high-end headphone amplifier with integrated high-resolution digital-to-analog converter (DAC).
• Digital-to-analog converter: ESS SABRE 9028PRO.
• Supported audio formats:
  • PCM: up to 32 bits / 384 kHz.
  • DSD: up to DSD256 (12.3 MHz).

Audio performance

• Frequency response: 10 Hz – 100 kHz.
• Attenuation: 93 dB.
• Total harmonic distortion (THD): less than 0.001%.
• Dynamic range: greater than 115 dB, with a 600 Ω load, A-weighted.
• Gain:
  • Unbalanced input / 4-pin XLR output: adjustable to 14, 22, 30, 38 or 46 dB.
  • Balanced input / 4-pin XLR output: 16 dB.

Connectivity

• Digital inputs: USB 2.0, optical, coaxial.
• Analog inputs: balanced XLR, unbalanced RCA.
• Headphone outputs:
  • 3-pin XLR.
  • 4-pin XLR.
  • 6.35 mm jack.
  • 4.4 mm Pentaconn.

Power supply and consumption

• Power supply: 100–240 V, 50–60 Hz.
• Power consumption: 12 to 18 W.

Box contents

• HDV 820 headphone amplifier.
• Region-specific power cable.
• Quick start guide.
• Safety guide.
• Microfiber cloth.

Dimensions and weight

• Dimensions (W × H × D): 224 × 44 × 306 mm.
• Weight: 2.39 kg.