The HD 598SR is a full-size, open-back, circum-aural headphone, described as a special version of the HD 598. It uses the maker's E.A.R. (Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement) approach, in which the transducers are positioned inside the ear cups to direct sound into the ears for a more spatial, in-room presentation. The transducers use aluminum voice coils, which the maker associates with high efficiency, good dynamics and low distortion.

Comfort is addressed with a light build, a padded leatherette headband and soft fabric ear pads. The open-back design lets the ear cups breathe, which suits long listening sessions.

Two detachable cables are supplied. A 3 m cable with a 6.3 mm jack suits a home entertainment system or amplifier. A 1.2 m cable with a 3.5 mm plug and an in-line remote and microphone suits portable devices and phone calls, so the headphones double as a headset. A 6.3 mm to 3.5 mm adaptor is also included.