Chapter 1
1945: The Foundation
Back in the days after World War II, many Germans established their small business in Hannover.
Dr. Fritz Sennheiser also had a vision.
Aftermath of World War II, by Dr. Fritz Sennheiser and a small team of engineers at the University of Hannover.
Originally named Lab W,
the company started in a half-timbered house in the village of Wennebostel, Germany. They began by producing tube voltmeters, but Dr. Sennheiser's vision was much grander.
Turning Challenge Into Opportunity
In 1945, Sennheiser received a challenging project from Siemens. Sennheiser was asked to rebuild a microphone from an Austrian supplier, without any past experience of making one!
The First Microphone
In 1946, Lab W produced its first microphone, the DM1, followed by the DM2. These microphones weren't just products; they were a statement of resilience and innovation in post-war Germany.
The 1950s: Expansion and Innovation
marked a period of significant expansion for Sennheiser. In 1956, the company introduced the first shotgun microphone, the MD 82. This invention revolutionized live broadcasting and filmmaking, offering directional sound capture, which was groundbreaking at the time.
1960, The Start of the Great Innovations
The Open-Back Headphone
The 1960s saw Sennheiser setting new standards in the audio world. The invention of the open-back headphone, the HD 414, in 1968, was a pivotal moment. These headphones became the best-selling headphones in the world, a testament to their groundbreaking design and exceptional sound quality.
Chapter 2
The Philosophy
Sennheiser was looking for ways...
to get into the business. Back then, Shure provided equipment and funds and to rising artists to sign a contract for ten years. All the good bands were blocked by Shure.
The quality is Our Strength.
“It is risky to compromise the quality of the product, and this will not happen here.” - Dr.Fritz Sennheiser
Sennheiser stayed strong and did what they could do. They decided to stay in Germany instead of different countries for cheaper production.
Chapter 3
The Next Generation
1982, The New Generation
Prof. Dr. Fritz Sennheiser handed over the management of the company to his son, Prof. Dr. Jörg Sennheiser.
1980, Wireless Technology
In 1982, Sennheiser took a giant leap by introducing the world to wireless technology with the L2012 wireless microphone system. This innovation paved the way for a new era in live performance, broadcasting, and personal audio.
1990, A New Direction
The 1990s was a decade of global expansion for Sennheiser. The company opened subsidiaries in France (1990), the UK (1990), the USA (1991), Singapore (1992), and Japan (1992). This expansion reflected Sennheiser's growing influence and presence in the global audio market.
2010, A Legacy of Awards
The 2010s were a period of continuous innovation for Sennheiser, earning them numerous awards. Notably, in 2013, the Digital 9000 wireless microphone system won the prestigious Emmy Award for its state-of-the-art sound quality and innovative RF transmission technology.
Chapter 4
2020s: Evolution Continues
Design For Everyday Users
As technology advances, Sennheiser develops affordable products for everyday listeners, with the quality used by the pro experts.
did you know?
Sennheiser's Logo Evolution
The Sennheiser logo has evolved significantly since 1945, reflecting the brand's growth and modernization.
Did YOU KNOW?
Innovation in Film
Sennheiser's equipment has been used in numerous Hollywood movies, contributing to the creation of immersive soundscapes.
DID YOU KNOW?
Pioneer of Active Noise Cancelling Headphone
In 1984, Sennheiser developed the first active noise-cancelling headsets for pilots at Lufthansa.
