Sennheiser CX 80U and HD 400U USB-C Headphones Deliver 24-bit/96kHz Wired Audio

Sennheiser's new USB-C headphones bypass Bluetooth compression with direct digital connections, offering high-resolution audio at accessible price points.

Sennheiser has introduced two wired headphones designed for smartphone users seeking uncompromised audio quality: the in-ear CX 80U ($39.95) and over-ear HD 400U ($99.95). Unlike their 3.5mm counterparts (CX 80S and HD 400S), these USB-C models support 24-bit/96kHz digital audio playback, eliminating the quality loss inherent in Bluetooth's SBC/AAC compression.

Technical Advantages Over Wireless

Both models feature:

Digital USB-C connectivity eliminating analog conversion stages
24-bit/96kHz DAC built directly into the cable
MEMS microphone with 100Hz-10kHz frequency response for calls
<0.5% THD (total harmonic distortion)
In-line controls compatible with Android devices

The HD 400U over-ear model delivers 18Hz-20kHz frequency response with 120dB SPL maximum volume, while the CX 80U in-ears reach 17Hz-20kHz at 119dB SPL. Both employ a U-shaped sound signature emphasizing bass and treble, though Sennheiser notes the HD 400U has a warmer tonal balance compared to the CX 80U's more neutral presentation.

Practical Comparisons

Feature	HD 400U (Over-Ear)	CX 80U (In-Ear)
MSRP	$99.95	$39.95
Sensitivity	120 dB SPL	119 dB SPL
Frequency Range	18Hz-20kHz	17Hz-20kHz
Driver Size	32mm	10mm
Weight	165g	14g (per earbud)

These models compete directly with wired alternatives like the Audio-Technica ATH-M20xBT USB-C edition ($59) and Shure AONIC 215 USB-C ($149), offering Sennheiser's signature tuning at lower price points.

Who Should Consider These?

Android users needing reliable USB-C audio without dongles
Travelers wanting plug-and-play compatibility with in-flight entertainment
Gamers seeking zero-latency wired connections
Audio purists avoiding Bluetooth compression artifacts

Available now through Sennheiser's official store and Amazon, these models fill a critical gap in the market for high-fidelity wired headphones designed for modern USB-C devices. While lacking wireless convenience, they provide superior audio fidelity compared to even high-end Bluetooth headphones using LDAC or aptX HD codecs.

For users whose smartphones still retain 3.5mm jacks, Sennheiser continues offering the HD 400S ($79) and CX 80S ($29.95) analog variants.