Audio test: Sennheiser Momentum 4 vs. Momentum 3

David Lee

29.9.2022

Translation: Eva Francis

My first impression was that the Sennheiser Momentum 4 doesn’t sound much different from its predecessor. But then I measured the difference and realised I was wrong.

Using the miniDSP Ears test fixture and Room EQ Wizard software, I decided to measure the frequency response of the Sennheiser Momentum 4 and compare the results with the Momentum 3. The frequency response shows which frequencies are louder and which are quieter, thus giving an approximate impression of the headphones' sound pattern. Using these measurements adds some objectivity to headphone tests, which are usually based on a subjective impression.

But I don’t want to trust these measurements only. I decide to compare them with my own listening experience and that of another person, as well as measurements from other testers. So my measurements are just a piece of the puzzle.

Listening

In her review, Livia wrote the Momentum 4 «does not sound significantly different» from the previous model. The new one, she adds, has a bit more bass and the midrange is clearly present – unlike many other headphones.

I listen to a sample and have the same impression. The midranges sound pronounced and powerful. The bass is also strong without booming. This description applies to both models. I couldn’t even say which headphone has more bass – sometimes one seems more powerful, sometimes the other. Even the older Sennheiser Momentum 2 doesn’t sound much different to me.

Measuring

The measurements of the two models show that the bass range is indeed louder on the Momentum 4. The graphs join at 100 Hz. The midrange (around 1 kHz) is also significantly louder compared to the Momentum 3.

Measurements of the lowest frequencies can vary greatly depending on how the ear cups rest and seal off the ear. For more details, check out this article. The above graphs are averages of five runs each. This is what the individual measurements look like:

While the Momentum 4’s deviations only affect the low bass range up to 50 Hz, they reach about 250 Hz in the Momentum 3. One reason for this could be the ear cups, which are much softer and smoother on the Momentum 4. Especially on a smooth surface such as the soft silicone top of the measurement device or smooth skin of the face, these ear cups should seal better.

The loud midranges of the Momentum 4 can also be seen in the measurements from headphonecheck.com, although the peak is a bit lower. The two graphs can’t be compared directly with my measurements, as different references are used. The graphs can only be compared within the measurement systems.

Double-checking

This midrange boost is very noticeable. Why didn’t I hear it? I put on the Momentum 4 again and use the equaliser to turn the frequencies in question up and down to hear any difference. Then I put on the Momentum 3 – and hear it immediately. The music sounds duller and warmer. It’s pretty obvious. I should have heard it before.

For me, this experience shows how crucial it is what I focus on. I only hear the difference if I know in advance which frequency range I have to pay attention to. Unbiased test listening is surely a good start, but is not enough on its own.

My verdict: more bass, more midrange

The bass range of the Momentum 4 is more powerful and, above all, more consistent, as the differences caused by the position of the ear cups are less pronounced. The midrange is also more pronounced. The Momentum 3, on the other hand, emphasises the upper bass and low midrange. This is by no means worse. In fact, I enjoy this profile for rock music.

Although the difference between the two headphones is clearly audible, I only consciously noticed it after looking at the frequency spectrum. This shows, once again, that psychology influences your audio experience – and that what you focus on when you’re listening is crucial.

David Lee

Senior Editor

David.Lee@digitecgalaxus.ch

My interest in IT and writing landed me in tech journalism early on (2000). I want to know how we can use technology without being used. Outside of the office, I’m a keen musician who makes up for lacking talent with excessive enthusiasm.

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