Comprehensive editorial review of the Samson SR850 headphones. Find out if these budget-friendly semi-open headphones deliver on sound, comfort, and overall quality.

Samson SR850 Headphone Review: What Does It Get You?

Introduction

Budget-friendly headphones often promise premium features at rock-bottom prices, sparking the question: how much music enjoyment or mixing accuracy can you actually expect for ? The Samson SR850 has developed a cult following for its accessible price and semi-open design—but does it deliver real value and sound quality, or is it just a bargain-basement compromise? Read on for a meticulous review grounded in objective testing and audiophile sensibility.

Overview and First Impressions

The SR850 is positioned for students, beginners, and listeners looking to stretch their dollar. Construction is predominantly plastic, keeping the weight down; comfort is bolstered by velour pads and a self-adjusting headband.

Audio Analysis

Frequency Response

Right from the first sweep, the SR850 reveals its character: slightly rolled-off sub-bass below 50Hz with energetic boosts in the 100–300Hz and 2–4kHz regions, plus bright treble above 8kHz. The midrange is not exactly recessed but is sandwiched by pronounced bass and treble, creating a “smile” EQ curve that can be engaging for fun listening but challenging for mixing accuracy.

Real-World Music Playback

In musical genres, the strong bass and accentuated highs deliver excitement, but midrange presence can appear subdued. Tracks with male or female vocals reveal noticeable sibilance in the 5–10kHz band, with some harshness on the top end—particularly on female vocals or sibilant instruments.

Spoken Word and Gaming

When tested with dialogue, the SR850 output highlights strong low-end and sibilant highs, presenting spoken word with energy—but not always the clearest articulation. For gaming, the semi-open design attempts to create a more expansive soundstage, yet the result is fairly average immersion—some external noise gets in, and the virtual environment doesn’t feel particularly “big.”

Comfort and Build Quality

These headphones feature lightweight plastic construction and velour earpads for moderate comfort, but earcup size may feel snug for those with larger ears. Adjustment is self-tensioned but limited in travel compared to more flexible rivals. The cable is non-detachable but sturdy.

Build quality is serviceable for the price, though some units have reported minor defects (i.e., tears in pads or QC lapses). As a bonus, a threaded quarter-inch adapter secures snugly, avoiding loss or breakage.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Lively, bright sound with strong bass and sizzle
• Lightweight and reasonably comfortable for most
• Budget-friendly with some audiophile qualities
• Sturdy non-detachable cable and adapter

Cons:

• Recessed mids can hinder vocal articulation
• Bright treble may cause fatigue over long sessions
• Warm earcups, average soundstage
• Typical plastic build and occasional QC issues

Final Verdict

The Samson SR850 is a strong contender in the ultra-budget segment for listeners craving punchy, detailed sound and an “open-ish” listening experience. Its energetic tuning works for casual music and gaming. However, for detail-critical studio tasks or mixing, the overhyped highs and muted mids suggest saving up for a more neutral option. If your budget truly caps out, the SR850 brings more fun than frustration.