Field Test · Studio Gear Review
Sennheiser HD 560S
Test & review: Sennheiser
Sennheiser
- Over-Ear Headphones
- For listening, analysing, and producing
- Neutral, monitor-quality sound
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Spec Sheet
- Circumaural
- Open
- Frequency range: 6 – 38,000 Hz
- Maximum level: 110 dB SPL (1 kHz, 1V)
- Impedance: 120 Ohm
- Total harmonic distortion at 1 kHz: <0.5%
- Velours ear pads
- One-sided, detachable 1.8 m cable with 3.5 mm jack plug
- Adapter 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm included
- Weight: 240 g
Studio Log
| Available since | October 2020 |
|---|---|
| Item number | 501912 |
| Sales Unit | 1 piece(s) |
| Design | Over-Ear |
| System | Open |
| Impedance | 120 Ohms |
| Frequency range | 6 Hz – 38000 Hz |
| Adapter | Yes |
| Replacable Cable | Yes |
| Marrone/Argento | Black |
| Sensitivity | 110 dB |
| Type Of Connector | Mini Jack |
| Weight | 240 g |
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QC Pass — Field Test
Customer Review Summary
[SUBTITLE]Technical assessment of Sennheiser’s HD 560S open-back headphonesIntroduction
The Sennheiser HD 560S, released in October 2020, positions itself as a mid-tier, open-back, circumaural headphone for audiophiles and critical listeners. Featuring a 120-ohm impedance and a frequency response spanning 6 Hz to 38,000 Hz, the HD 560S promises a neutral and natural sound signature suited for monitoring, mixing and immersive music enjoyment. Priced at around £122, it aims to offer professional-grade sound quality and comfort without the premium price tag often associated with high-end audiophile gear.
Design and Build Quality
The HD 560S exhibits a sleek, minimalist design predominantly in black, utilising durable plastic materials. While the plastic construction does not convey a luxury feel, it delivers solid build integrity. Some users note minor issues with plastic creaks or slight resonances when moving the headphones, but these do not detract significantly from the overall experience.
The headphones weigh a lightweight 240 grams and employ large circumaural earcups with soft velvet pads that enhance comfort during extended sessions. The headband applies a firm clamping force – tighter than some predecessors like the HD 598 or HD 599 – securing the headphones without discomfort for most users. However, those with larger ears may require a break-in period or consider alternative ear pads to maximise comfort.
Cable management is handled by a single detachable 1.8-metre mini-jack cable with 3.5 mm connectors and an adapter to 6.3 mm. Although the cable is robust, reinforced with steel wires beneath the rubberisation, it is somewhat stiff and long, inviting some users to replace it with a more flexible alternative.
Sound Signature and Performance
Neutrality and Clarity
The HD 560S offers a notably neutral frequency response with minimal colouration, standing out for its faithful reproduction of instruments and vocals. It features a near absence of the typical “Sennheiser veil”, the subtle smoothness often present in the brand’s headphones, resulting in crisp, detailed timbres, especially in midrange instruments such as strings and vocals. Although the classic AKG K702 may edge out in violin timbre precision, the HD 560S surpasses the HD 660S in overall neutrality and string instrument fidelity.
Frequency Range and Bass Response
Extending from 6 Hz to 38 kHz, this headphone possesses a wide frequency range that covers the audible and beyond for enhanced harmonic richness. The bass reproduction is praised for being tight, dry and impactful without any muddiness or exaggerated boominess. The bass quantity suits an array of genres, from classical to electronic, with sufficient authority to reproduce punchy kicks and basslines without overshadowing mids or highs.
Soundstage and Imaging
The HD 560S delivers an impressively wide soundstage that creates a clear and spatially accurate listening environment. While it does not quite rival the expansive stage of some open models like the K702, it spans distinctly wider than the HD 660S. Positioning of instruments is well-defined and reliable, enabling easy localisation in mixes or recordings, supporting both casual listening and studio use.
Mid and High Frequencies
Midrange tones are full-bodied, detailed and natural, exhibiting the characteristic Sennheiser richness and presence. High frequencies are clean and balanced but can be slightly pronounced around the 7 kHz region, which may cause mild listening fatigue or sharpness in certain vocal “s” sounds. A gentle equalisation tweak can resolve this for extended listening comfort without sacrificing detail.
Dynamic Range and Musicality
The headphone shows strong dynamic capabilities, responding well to sudden volume changes and complex orchestration. Crescendos, fortissimos and pianissimos reveal themselves clearly, rendering musical climaxes with power and authority without distortion or compression. This makes the HD 560S a responsive tool for classical music and intricate mixes alike.
Source and Amplification Needs
With an impedance of 120 ohms and sensitivity of 110 dB, the HD 560S requires a source capable of providing sufficient power, especially at high volume levels. Although they can be driven directly from smartphones or laptops at moderate volumes, pairing with a dedicated headphone amplifier or quality DAC greatly enhances sonic performance, opening the full frequency spectrum and improving clarity and dynamics.
Practical Considerations
- Comfort: Suitable for long headphone sessions owing to the lightweight build and velour pads, though headband clamping force and ear cup size may require getting used to or minor modifications for some users.
- Cable and Connectivity: Single-sided detachable cable with supplied 3.5 to 6.3 mm adapter is practical, though cable stiffness and length could be improved.
- Durability: Robust plastic construction offers reasonable longevity, though surface finishes like the external grilles may show wear over prolonged use.
- Noise Isolation: Being open-back, the HD 560S provides minimal passive noise isolation and leaks sound, making them unsuitable for noisy environments or shared spaces.
Comparison with Similar Models
Compared to the HD 660S, the HD 560S offers a larger soundstage with slightly less warmth but greater neutrality, and at a significantly lower price point. The AKG K702 remains a benchmark for analytical listening with a somewhat more expansive and precise soundstage plus violin timbre fidelity. Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro headphones have a more forward, slightly harsher high-frequency signature and differ in tonal balance.
Conclusion
The Sennheiser HD 560S presents a compelling option for listeners seeking highly neutral, detailed and spacious open-back headphones without investing in ultra-high-end models. Its strengths lie in accurate bass response, natural midrange, and dynamic expressiveness. Though some might find the treble a bit bright, this can usually be managed with minor equalisation adjustments.
Build quality is solid but utilitarian, focusing on function over flair, and comfort is generally good but not perfect for everyone. The headphone excels when paired with a decent amplifier or DAC, unlocking its full potential. Overall, the HD 560S is a versatile headphone well suited for audiophiles, music producers, and critical listeners who prefer tonal accuracy and a broad soundstage at a reasonable price.
