HD 560S The New Standard! - REVIEW

[@AnotherAnonymousMan]

I love how clearly uncomfortable DMS is giving something an all-glowing review. At this point DMS is amoung the top crop of headphone reviewers period so this is exceptionally high praise. Great vid as always.

[@Krmpfpks]

"among the top crop"? Is there anyone coming close?

[@AnotherAnonymousMan]

@@Krmpfpks Honestly, there are plenty of online headphone reviewers with different styles and unique selling points. Joshua Valour has insane production, Steve Guttenberg is like an audio sage. Resolve reviews/ The headphone show, are pretty solid, The next best thing studio are worth listening to, as is anyone from Soundstage. Inner fidelity is no joke. There's Passion for sound doing solid work too. And of course there's Zeos doing his thing over on the zaney entertainment side. I'd rate DMS as top tier in this crop.

[@frykauf]

Yeah DMS is very much not a person who just says "this is great", "this is also great", "and this too". I think everyone appriciates his highly critical stance in reviewing audio gear, very much in contrast to even the more critical reviewers. His reviews are always helpful, even if I don't share the same preference in sound signature.

[@Krmpfpks]

AnotherAnonymousMan I pretty regularly watch all of them, besides tyl from innerfidelity (who I didn’t count since he has retired) none of them even come close to DMS ears and objective judgement.

[@AnotherAnonymousMan]

@@Krmpfpks As I said, I consider DMS to be top tier. But one expert opionion is only one expert opinion, and when freely available, should only ever taken within the context of others. IMO It's *never* useful to champion any individual's opinion on subjective matters. In this instance it's possible that DMS has overvalued neutrality over detail retrieval, imaginge, and soundstage and his idea of its key characteristics might not match your own. Perhaps its dynamics or speed make it a no-go for you but perfectly acceptable at the pricepoint for him etc. *TL;DR:* It's impossible to get a rounded view of something from one opinion, regardless of how credible it is. And ranking an individual opinion as "best" needlessly robs you of some objectivity in a field that's already quite subjective. IMO

[@MicahEdmonds]

"I know you should be mixing on speakers, but if you're gonna use a headphone at all for mixing, this is the headphone you should be using" was what sold me on this headphone since it spoke to my exact use case. I've only had my pair for five hours but I already feel as though I can breathe again and I've felt so much more excitement and eveness in my mixes immediatley. Thanks for helping me take this step, I should have done this years ago.

[@DjorMil.CineMusic]

First i was shooting for some Beyerdynamics for mixing/mastering, so i took DT 770 PRO and 990, but for majority of the headphones you need Sonarworks reference ID to make it work and real, to iron all the imperfections like Beyerdynamics has in the highs etc. Few days later i took HD 560S to test it, which has amazing sound quality, neutral sound and so much details. I decided to return Beyerdynamics, even though they were a bit more comfy (for me personally) and have better build quality, but for the sake of reliable and good sound and no need to invest into Sonarworks at all, i decided to go with HD 560s. Great headphones..for this money imaginable value.

[@kellycny65]

The man speaks truth. I got a pair of these this week, and their clarity and neutral sound are startling. An unbelievable headphone for $200.

[@MurariPOV]

How's this compared to beyerdynamic 770 pro

[@alouisschafer7212]

I can get them for 140$. Lets hope they outclass my DT 990s

[@WSlopeAggie]

@@MurariPOV It's a fucking curbstomp of the DT770.

[@bazadam6635]

I know right. I'm here to say thanks to DMR.

[@spamcan9208]

After watching a few reviews I said screw it and hit the buy button at the end of this video. It's my first set of audiophile headphones and I was hesitant to buy anything because I don't know much yet. What I do know is why I wanted them. I want to hear all those little details that I can't hear unless I'm somewhere in person listening to a piano or when I used to play trumpet. I missed what I heard in high school band class. Now I have to figure out amps and dacs and where I should source music.

[@snowrang3r657]

If the 560s legit makes the 600 line obsolete I wonder if they're working on a new one (say a HD670s or maybe a HD700s). Good to know Sennheiser isn't just sitting around and is actually developing new stuff!

[@derekw6811]

I’d like to see an HD700s

[@Anti-FreedomD.P.R.ofSouthKorea]

Psssst, incoming HD650 extreme conservatives!! (jk jk)

[@frykauf]

I 100 % believe they are refreshing their lineup. It's very much due, they're just gonna release them few months apart so the sales of one won't affect the other.

[@BennytheMenace]

@@frykauf Or so we end up buying the whole collection due to the stepping stones

[@meltinini7920]

I just want them to re-issue an HD 580 Precision (which is an HD600 with slightly less bass and treble, which is more agreeable)

[@stefanredmond8884]

My HD560s finally turned up and I have to say a big Thanks to DMS for providing such an accurate review - to the point that I could imagine how they sounded before they even arrived. These headphones are very impressive if you want a neutral representation of your music, with clear space for everything in the mix.

[@ChrisBessy]

can you mix the bass of your track with them ? thank you

[@stefanredmond8884]

@@ChrisBessy I think they'd be very good for mixing.

[@ChrisBessy]

@@stefanredmond8884 I have hd600 but no bass enough and I dont hear good the trebles .... but I hesitate between buy a better amp, because I use focusrite 2i4, or buy a hd650s or hd599 ....... my mixes with hd600 are not very good in my car .....

[@stefanredmond8884]

@@ChrisBessy I haven’t tried the 600s but from reviews I’ve seen the 560s have slightly more bass and more treble - but they are overall quite alike.

[@THROES_XK]

@@stefanredmond8884 I want to buy this headphone and I want the best amp/dac for it Can you recommend an amp/dac for under $200? I want it to be portable and if not it can be normal

[@mobbymarkose]

I made a mistake first time, bought 560S and compared it against my Philips X2HR . Offcourse 560S wasnt as bright as the X2HR when swapping between headphones. I went to extend of returning it , few days later I figured the 560s sound stage was so much better and relaxing compared to X2HR .. I could hear instruments with clear directional sense in X and Y axis. I bought 560S again to give it another try. Went through a week of using it and now Im not returning back to X2HR. Not that I dislike X2HR but 560s takes music listening to the next level for me. I hate the 9 feet cable provided with the headset though. Changed to a smaller one and its now my daily driver plugged against Schitt Hel ! The best headphones I own.. it even beats my Sony 1000Xm4s for relaxed , warm, natural sound and backed by excellent soundstage which splits everything out like watching a 3D Movie . Audio Nirvana! This one will punish bad quality music or production... I switch to X2HR for that.. :D

[@takaliuang]

Just got it for one week by this video recomendation....you wont get WOW V shape sound...but this headphone is extreemly FLAT....and that's what I need to mix with headphone.

[@chi-towncalifornia5916]

This is exciting news, and what makes me even more excited is how comfortable the HD5XX range is, due to the long elliptical pads that let my ears tuck in behind them, and the angled drivers that never touch my ears. That form factor surpasses the HD6XX earcups for comfort, and goes toe to toe with Bose QCs. These should make killer reasonably priced gaming headphones.

[@richard7673]

SO THATS WHAT hd5xx means when you guys put the xx's in OMG

[@jackgreen05]

As a HD 569 owner, I aprobe this comment!

[@Elbenito84]

Damn. This is high praise. I've been trying to find a replacement for my 7 year old HD 650s for a while now and while I have other stuff that sounds different I've never been able to get rid of the 650s. Has the day finally come??

[@alondite215]

No, the 650 are still the better headphone. Buy new pads for the 650 instead.

[@princesmith8008]

Which is better for gaming (story-based/single player) and watching movies?? HD 650 or HD 560S??

[@divinecurrent9053]

Yeah you were right about this one DMS. I don't really like the peak/elevation around 4-5kHz, but once you EQ that out, I swear these get way too close to the Elex in terms of detail, speed, soundstage, and imaging. These are also way tighter and faster in the bass compared to the 650 and 58X, and more dynamic in general.

[@Blemmo]

what would your equilizer settings look like? Sorry I'm a total noob

[@Valla451]

You should answer the question of witch Dac's and Amps you'd recommend with them. Quality video.

[@iamroberty]

It's so hilarious watching DMS actually being impressed by something.

[@Jordonater]

I used to use a pair of HD598 and they did always sound natural and what i considered to be what everything should sound like.

[@PhantomGett]

Does this still have the vague off center imaging of the 600-series? After personally comparing 660 to Elex, I felt that metal571's description of "3-blob imaging" was correct RE:the 600-series. I guess what I'm asking is if the 560S has better, worse, or comparable imaging to Elex because I know you used that as a reference for a while too.

[@RafiGish]

Josh' Valour mentions Metal's 3-blob thingy in his 1st impression: kzbin.info/www/bejne/g6PGlKSPnNSAhZI

[@TheBrotesque]

@@RafiGish To clarify, he mentions that it is less of an issue on the 560s compared to 600 line

[@TheBrotesque]

@Roseki I think there has also been some speculation that the angled drivers help with imaging

[@j.d.4697]

@@TheBrotesque He says they have great imaging, so I'd assume that disqualifies the blob issue?

[@ktxtrain]

i got my 560s yesterday. its fantastic. clean crisp flat. just 195.95 its amazing. 560s is a little bit lean but clean and mid high detail. it has some bass tension(not quantity, but has good tension) a new standard? yes.

[@SamKesslerMedia]

Listening to this on a pair of the HD560s for the first time since buying them and it sounds great!

[@philipchignell4902]

Same here!

[@arts9654]

Just ordered! I own the 800s and the 6xx. The 800s is a little distant and cold though exceptionally detailed and airy, while the 650 is a little congested and murky but so intimate and smooth. The 5xx line is my favorite in terms of soundstage out of all headphones I've listened to but the frequency response, detail retrieval and resolution were always lacking. I really hope it will be the middle ground I've been looking for and I can be at peace! And at a cheaper price!

[@HOTSPEEDMike]

Detail retrival on my 599's is perfectly fine. However I wonder if 560's are much of an upgrade, or just a slightly different flavour....

[@AdamEarthMusic]

Iam a music producer and after using the hd650 for over 10 years mixing and mastering I can honestly say once I got the hd560 I fell in love right out of the box I didn't like how it sounded with sonarworks ,better without it, I can mix and master my songs alot better cause they are very accurate and neutral hd650's got me close but I needed something more flat and uncolored etc never thought I'd leave my hd650s:P for anyone buying these keep in mind most music will sound great but these are meant to be neutral and are more for critical listening ,just thought I'd comment on these as I see no points of view from music producers on any reviews of these

[@ChrisKeyman]

Still happy with them? I am between these, the ollo s5x, the DT900prox, and the neumann ndh30. I am music producer also

[@h-dawg6462]

@@ChrisKeyman if you get the 560S, make sure it's the revised 2022 edition: with shorter cable, different head cushion material and tuned 3db less in the high's along with a deeper bass response of 6hz!! i love them so much i bought a second pair!!

[@ChrisKeyman]

@h-dawg6462 the 560s are discontinued. Now there are the hd400 pro . Exactly the same headphones they say.

[@OZVIVRR]

@@ChrisKeyman I am between DT 900prox and the 560 s . What was your choice for music producing please. ?

[@ChrisKeyman]

@@OZVIVRR HD560s. 900 prox is great but needs some eq for me

[@laalki80]

The Sennheiser 500 form factor is just the most comfortable. I've got the HD 518 and you can forget you're wearing them. The HD 650 is a hefty and heavy set and my daily driver the DT 770 Pro too, made of spring steel.

[@TheJethrobull]

This is by far the best review of these headphones. You clearly understand the whole point of these being reference cans. Other reviews I have watched seem to have missed the point entirely. Thanks for this, good stuff!

[@StealthAlazagh]

Yo DMS love your videos! I hope your channel keeps growing!

[@dpcoffey]

"if you wanna line up and call me a shill" lol so good

[@Isaac_L..]

Z’s going to jump out a window in his review of these.

[@Sasha_May]

"Theeeese!" (c) Zeos

[@POWERofO7]

@@Sasha_May insert orgasm noise*

[@larryeckerdt9750]

But his review station is in the basement, so...

[@ZReviews]

OR.. they will be totally flat and I won't be able to stand them. Its never a guarantee what I will and won't like.

[@agentorange8530]

Z's not gonna like them because they're flat and have no booty.

[@LIL-MAN_theOG]

Look at my boy dressing it up...do your thang bro. You got that 80s new wave look going

[@maciejgeming8555]

These are GREAT. I bought them becouse of this video also. Ater some time I started to feel that the top end is a bit to sharp, and that they could have a bit more bass and sound a bit warmer. And... there is a way to do that! If anyone feels the same as me - try it with 598 CS pads. The difference is HUGE - those pads smoothes out the treble, gives real strong bass, and change the tonality more towards analog than digital side. Also the stage has improved in depth. Incredible difference. I've read about it from some polish reviewer and it all was true. The only thing that can be considered as downside is that vocals would not be as close as they were before.

[@Jakems28]

I'm a huge fan of these headphones. Got them as a counterpart to my LCD 2 classics and DT 1990s. They're essentially what I wish the 1990 was in terms of frequency response. The 560s have energy in the highs(compared to the LCD but it's warm so I guess this is truly neutral) but it's just right. Everything whether it's bright or warm sounds awesome on them. The bass extension is phenomenal and tight. I certainly would return the 1990s for the 560s if it wasn't too late. Their imaging still isn't on the level of the 1990s for gaming, but that's for gaming. For enjoying music I'm going 560s all day. They're a great counter to the LCD's warmer sound.

[@williamhuff8601]

This review is 100% responsible for my purchase. And I 100% agree. Flat. Exactly as produced. Perfect. Thank you.....

[@mvv1408]

Damn, just when I thought I already had more than enough headphones...

[@luiscastro5456]

hahaha

[@MrMissouris]

really damn... how I understand you...

[@axij]

bought these headphones after watching a different review and now that im seeing this i no longer have any sort of regrets at all

[@chaosagentmr]

I've been looking at the 599 for a very long time to upgrade from the super budget Samson SR 850. When I discovered the existence of the 560S, I went to Headfi and discovered your channel through a link to your review. Thanks for the info, and I am now subscribed to your content. Keep it up!

[@CrankCase08]

The uber-inexpensive Superlux HD681F ('F' for flat) is a very decent upgrade from the Samson SR850. It completely pisses over my DT880, which will soon end up on eBay.

[@MyouKyuubi]

Grab 599 if you don't want to use, or can't afford an amplifier. (For immersive gaming and general music enjoyment) 560s for sure, if you intend to use it with an amplifier though. (For audio purists, not to be confused with audiophiles, that want proper sound in everything they do for a relatively cheap price, even if that costs a bit extra for the amplifier) That being said though, running the 560s on a Topping A90 is a bit overkill, and is no doubt a huge reason why the headphone sounds so amazing, he should've run it through a cheaper amp, like, a Schiit Heresy or FiiO K5 Pro, through something that most people would be likely to have.

[@chaosagentmr]

@@MyouKyuubi man this comment was a throwback. Thank you so much for your advice, but I've been rocking the 599 for almost a year now. And yeah, my requirements are indeed gaming and casual listening without amps. The 599 has not disappointed at all.

[@MyouKyuubi]

@@chaosagentmr

[@supermeseriasu]

@@chaosagentmr Do you still recommend 599? I wanted to buy 560s but I understood that 599 has better comfort. I spend a lot of time at the computer and comfort is paramount, I'm not an advanced audiophile. Media, games and some music for hours on end. Are they breathable in the summer? I had Bose soundcore q35 and I used to sweat with them, I sold them and I really want something breathable,

[@carlob95]

I ordered one bases on your review….For $200 it is excellent, especially with classical music! A true hifi headphones! I love it!

[@S85B50Engine]

0:57 "Makes some waves" Sine waves if you will

[@vintagetimmy1893]

Just picked up for $129 on prime day thanks for the guide brother ❤

[@Juanixtec]

Let's wait for Crinacle or Oratory to measure those bad boys. But they seem lit.

[@nicoraibak]

GReat review! dude is there any in ear that you can recommend for audio mixing ooor which iem has the flattest response

[@itsandyme9192]

I have reference IEMs, but I've been longing for an affordable reoference headphone.

[@Zolnierzu]

Hard disagree on the comfort - the clamp is too damn tight, and the cushions are way too shallow, at least for my head, so it gives that unpleasant tension in the temples and my ears hurt from being pushed against the speaker walls. Don't buy it without first trying it out for a longer session.

[@Tomyummmm]

Listening to this on my HD6XX and Topping L30 amp, i'm happy as is, though i really want to have a listen. Hopefully this will be available at stores in Singapore soon

[@matskarlsson924]

EQing your HD6XX may be a more economical solution if you don't like them. ;-) Try the oratory1990 setting but only boosting bass 5.5 dB (you can thank me later).

[@jamiewalker3505]

I bought these last week and have been using them for listening to music at my computer. They're pretty sweet.

[@edgarruizsanchez8437]

Awesome video man, the graph comparing it to HD6XX was great. I love my HD650 and HD700 and will give these a try.

[@Chris_P_Bacon]

Awesome! I actually managed to win them on the munich high end audio show!

[@ErnieKimNo_14]

Big fan, keep up the good work shill

[@metalfather8139]

Even after 3 yrs thankyou for recommending the hd560s it is truly a simple gem with no spotlight on it

[@simiafumi]

Finally back in stock and purchased without hesitation

[@Codyno]

been running this as my gaming headphones. Honestly the best peripheral ive purchased

[@magnikjaer803]

Ive bought and returned the sennheiser HD 560s TWICE! Left driver was in both cases more sensible around 8k-13k making the sound image tilt to the left by 5-10% I've done mono tests, reverse test, reverse stereo image + reverse hp to rule out my ears being sensible to specific frequencies, friend test etc This is not acceptable! (I didn't pay to get a headache and a deaf ear)

[@omniscient4510]

Happened something similar to me, the left driver started rattling after a week and had to return them, there's no excuse for a brand with this reputation to have worse qc than previous models

[@justinlime69]

Just picked a pair up thanks to your recommendation, upgraded from my Shp 9500, Thank you I'm loving these every minute

[@captainkilos]

Are these a big improvement? Looking to do the same upgrade but I do competitive FPS gaming

[@justinlime69]

@@captainkilos sound stage is a bit closer but I can still pinpoint the footsteps no problem, music listening is much more enjoyable with these for me

[@williamjohnson6588]

I was so close to buying the 6XX headphones. I am SO glad I didn’t. This sounds like exactly what I’ve been looking for. Thanks for an amazing review!

[@DominicDarrell]

I just bought the 6XX on the 21st :(

[@cychloryn]

me too, i just got mine last week! oh well lol

[@DominicDarrell]

@@cychloryn Not like it's necessarily worse, especially considering it's pretty much the same price. I'm just glad to finally have a nice audio setup

[@squidwardstesticles5914]

I was just about to buy the 58x, but now I’m gonna wait until there’s more reviews of these and some comparisons between the 2

[@dae8894]

Squidward's Testicles I think either way at some point you have to experience the 58x. I hardly use mine, but I feel like it's a stepping stone everyone should get just because of the value

[@tim-mer]

Got to 7:05 in the vid, stopped watching and ordered them. I've never been so easily convinced to buy something like this before. Amazing vid man can't wait to try these out myself.

[@dae8894]

honestly same. I know some people say he's biased or shilling for Sennheiser but this review actually convinced me. for 200 I didn't think it could really go wrong considering I only have 58x and 4xx

[@HOTSPEEDMike]

I have 599 and wondering if 560 would be an upgrade, just a different flavour or downgrade... Sennheiser product names can be confusing.

[@dae8894]

mike from what I've seen it sounds kinda like a side grade. neither up or down just kinda different. but I could be wrong who knows

[@jasonbrown31485]

Where did you order them from?

[@tim-mer]

@@jasonbrown31485 I got them from the sennheiser website from the description but changed the local to my own country. But they're sold out so will be waiting a while more before I get them... They're about a tenner cheaper on Amazon but also out of stock there.

[@edmundgil6008]

This sounds so exciting! A total rave is so not you, bro. Sounds like I may need to buy yet ANOTHER pair of Sennys!

[@ordjk4797]

Yup what I had to do

[@vorteco7692]

Thanks for your recommendation and opinion on this set. I really prefer the flat sound/ uncolored experience. I want it how the artist intended. For better or worse. These are going to be my first open-back headphones.

[@ordjk4797]

Damn I got this pair of headphones and now I'm hyped because of this review

[@DMS3TV]

I still love them

[@stephenhagen234]

This is a headphone set that will blow you away for the beautiful and accurate sound. I find it extremely comfortable to wear and I wanted something with a flat frequency response without the enhanced frequencies thrown in and wasn't needed. This review is very truthful and speaks very favorably of this headphone. Just listen to Michael English singing "Midnight Cry" with the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir on his CD "Gospel" released in 1998 on Curb Records. Wow, what a sound, what a song!

[@TheDarkenedRose]

Just that moment where he was silent and listening to his music in pure awe is the kind of experience I want to have with a new pair of headphones. I just might pick this up soon. Thanks for the review DMS :)

[@projectionpark841]

How does this compare to the OG HD598 (beige) soundstage, and sound? I have one, and looking to upgrade. So far I'm looking at k712 vs Sundara

[@donvittoriosierra]

I just got a pair and I think if factoring in the amp requirements and price, this is a better value than the hd6xx since it can sound great out of a simple portable dac amp while the 6xx needs more juice to go loud and get that slam going. I have the hd6xx by the way and love it. My Grado 325x is coming as well hahaha.

[@Gwinter452]

Can the 560s be used directly from a phone (usb-c) with an adapter (usb-c to 3.5mm)? I'm new to all this stuff, lol.

[@Zooptopus27]

I was bidding on the 660s via ebay, but after seeing this review... I preordered this set. I'm really looking forward to it now!

[@PSON_]

How are you liking the headphone so far? I am debating between this and the Sundara.

[@Zooptopus27]

@@PSON_ I use them every day at work. I love them! I don't own the Sundara though, so I can't compare it. The only thing I wish it had was another cable... since the original is so damn long. Luckily I have a lot of space and I can just put it to the side.

[@facehead7763]

So would you recommend these over the TYGRs for gaming based just upon detail and imaging?

[@ziokalco]

I just got a pair of tygr, but I am curious about the same. Imagin wasn't near as good as the review made it seem to be, very inferior to my 5.1 speakers (and it is a cheap set, was cheaper than the tygr, although sound quality in general is better on the tygr, much more detailed).

[@BrotherO4]

About to find out.. I have the Tyger and just order the 560s

[@facehead7763]

@@vorkot1 I got the TYGRs to replace my AD900X and I haven't looked back since. They are better in terms of detail and imagining in my experience listening to music and playing shooters. They do have a smaller soundstage and on my ifi zen dac they are no where as loud.

[@relevantinformation6655]

Have these for Forensic audio use. I’ve had tons of headphones over the years, many more expensive. I needed something that was flat enough to present as neutral as the old Auratone reference speakers. Court room speakers and the audio equipment attorneys use is “whatever is available”- clarity is the key issue for my files. Cutting through the courtroom requires a very out-front dialogue mix. These are very good for this type of work. Having done forensic audio clarification on over 1,250 cases, it needs to be simple, clean and audible on first listen. -as that’s often all you get. Nice review !

[@mvv1408]

Ok, bought them, they just arrived. So is DMS a Sennheiser shill? Well, this review is spot on if you ask me. These sound like studio monitors, in a good way. I wouldn't be surprised if they became a cult hit!

[@xk964264]

Would these play well with tube amps

[@mvv1408]

@@xk964264 Don't know, I've only tried them on solid state amps.

[@ordjk4797]

damn just ordered a pair I'm suppper excited to get them.

[@RubenKemp]

@@mvv1408 what amp do you use them with?

[@mvv1408]

@@RubenKemp Schiit Asgard 3.

[@quoostonator]

I bought a pair of these for the office, because they’re cheaper than the 6XX I have at home. I run the 6XX off a Darkvoice so I took my XDUOO TA-26 to the office. All I wanted was something that didn’t suck so I could code in something like the same state of bliss I have at home. I LOVE THE 6XX ON THE DARKVOICE. Then I started listening at the office and thought it was… better. WTAF? Now I know why. It’s been a few months, and I love both experiences. I’ve tube rolled the crap out of both amps and have them right where I like them, and the headphones are matched perfectly. I haven’t tried my solid state amp with the 560s but it sounds like I should. I have the baby Topping with its DAC sibling.

[@titaniumwaffle4304]

I might consider getting these to replace my old hd598 as I mostly use them for editing vocals and SFX and having a wide sound stage for playing some games

[@streamnoremorse]

Do you got them? How they sound comparing to 598? I have 598 too.

[@streamnoremorse]

I ordered hd 650

[@cdyow]

Just pulled the trigger on these. Taking first step into something beyond consumer audio. Will be paired with a Topping DX3 Pro. Wish me luck.

[@ProtestTheHero04]

Hey DMS, where can I buy those wall diffusors? They look so incredible good...

[@bravestarr2001]

I'm love these headphones. On my second pair after an unfortunate incident. Love Listening with the iFi ZEN. They're amazing for £135! The soundstage and detail is astounding.

[@ALnMO]

Long time Sennheiser user here. Decided to give the Sundara a shot but the unit I got had some manufacturing defects and I don't think I want to give them a second chance. Looks like I will probably stick with the tried and true Sennheiser. I've become a neutral-head recently. These should work well for me.

[@forgehorizon9932]

Hey man!! love your insight on headphones, you leave the greatest detail for us audiophiles looking for the specifics. I would love to see a review on the Blue Ella's !! Cheers man

[@Anomalyn1]

Honest opinion here: They overall have a dry sound signature and harsh treble. But they have detail, a decent soundstage, and a linear but not so textured bass.

[@rpgfeatures793]

Did you use an amp? And which one if you used one

[@Anomalyn1]

@@rpgfeatures793 i returned them. i used ifi zen dac with the 5v power supply

[@KevinLaffey]

@DMS, great review. Two years later do you still rate them as good? From my own research it seems that these are still the headphones to beat for their price. Thanks.

[@mamagalebi]

At this point I've owned the 560s, 599s, X2HR's, PC38x, and the DT 990s, but none of them seem to satisfy me... I always feel like there's something missing. With the 599/PC38x it was the lack of subbass and dynamic intensity (veiled and compressed); the 990s were a lot more engaging and dynamic to me but their timbre felt too metallic/thin and i'm pretty sure they've given me tinnitus (at like 10-13khz lmao) ... and the x2hrs ... didn't like them at all. The 560s had surprisingly good subbass and weren't veiled in the treble like the other Senns but damn they really lacked the energy and dynamics of the dt 990s; I couldn't EQ in any additional mid/upper bass either (driver limitation maybe?). At this point I'm willing to spend a bit more (maybe up to $500 USD) to look for something that suits my tastes. I think I'm looking for something warm with a rich, thick texture that doesn't lack subbass and also has somewhat neutral to bright treble; dynamics and intensity are also a priority. Does such a headphone exist? If so, I might be willing to spend even more to end this itch. I'd appreciate any input.

[@raikozy35]

Hmm, I have the HD 598S (first decent headphone) and HD 6xx. To me HD 6XX sounds so much better than the 598 especially with amp decent enough to fully drive the thing. However like you, I have the itch about it. Something about it just not fully there for my taste. I wanted something that's even more clear and detailed (basically super looking for a super dynamic full of energy headphone,) but also with really punchy but super clean bass. I finally took the plunge a few weeks ago and bought the Focal Clear lol. Yeah it costs like 10x more than HD6xx (at MSRP) but my god it's literally THE headphone. Basically an ultra HD6xx. It has extreme dynamic, super clear and incredibly nice and punchy bass. It's basically cheft kiss all the way through. The only caveat is it's so damn expensive and the earpads (for replacement) cost the same as HD560s...Sorry for peeking through your profile but I noticed you are Canadian as well. The OG clear is better than the new Focal Clear MG and it's permanently on discount right now. I got one from headphones.com but the Canadian site.

[@hibrucetzenh6170]

do u use an audio interface or any amp

[@xynonners]

I've tried a lot of the ones you listed, and I agree on your x2hr, those kind of suck. They're rough like the AD500X is to the AD700X. I don't have the dt990s but have the dt880s, they really need a 4-5khz boost and a 6khz drop, and some crossfeed (fix straight line through head imaging), but they do sound a tad thin, and soundstage isn't very impressive, microdetail is best I've heard though (after treble fixed). 560s has some of the strongest subbass I've ever heard, but the bass is more of the one tone bass rather than detailed like the dt bass is (dt880 after +5db bass boost to get to ief neutral). PC38X I've also owned for about a year or so (on sale rn actually), and I agree too, it has the classic sennheiser veil and bass rolloff, a bit too dark and unoffensive, 560s destroys them tbh. I've also tried one that you haven't, the HE400SE. The bass on this is on par with the dt880 bass but even stronger, but the timbre is more in the opposite direction, instead of thin, I would call it "dry." Really needs eq to get good because of huge midrange recess, but soundstage is way wider but less deep than the 560s soundstage. Still sounds dry and dead though. Didn't try the honeycomb grille mod, but covering the grills have a huge effect on sound (making more dry and dead), so maybe HE400se with grills removed would be good. Sent them back however since the headband was already breaking down a week in. I haven't tried anything from the AKG line but that might be the one to try, since they have apparently huge soundstage and seperation, without timbre issues. The k612 pro is tuned exactly to ief neutral, while k702 has upper midrange emphasis. Hoping to try both of those later this year.

[@2richants]

Finally decided on my first decent set after 2 months after lurking on various channels. Heard their good for rock so I'm sold and can't wait to crank up A storm in heaven

[@piscopopasco]

For casual music listening and videogames should I go with something from the DT series (like DT770) or the 560S?

[@xaspirate8060]

Okay DMS -- I've had these for a week now and ... = AS GOOD AS ADVERTISED!! No hyperbole here... they are nicely balanced, there is nothing that you cannot hear which is not true of all headphones, and they don't have that silly bass-boost that some incorporate. I want my headphones FLAT ... I will take care of sound enhancements as I see fit. THANK YOU for this most accurate review. So readers know, I am strictly in it for music listening (but I know that they are more than capable for mixing) and that is 80% mainstream R&R (think Classic Rock)but jazz and classical come off superb as well. Easy recommend.

[@raymondherrell2450]

First time I've ever seen you, just curious to what do you think of Grado headphones

[@larserikbruun]

So now 2 years later would you still recommend this as much as you did at that time and thank you for the great review👍👍

[@hdtv00]

Interesting ...I've been using the HD 560 Ovation II's since 1993 and I've went back to them over the HD 600, 650,700. They just exactly like you described these new ones. They produce so much detail yet have balanced bass they I've never found anything that can match them. They still make and sell the ear pads and the cables for my 560 Ovation II's but these have me curious how they hold up against the legendary classic.

[@danthemanwhocancan]

This guy would kill it on QVC! - I'm in!!

[@CaptnKrksNippls]

I dont understand this naming scheme

[@squidwardstesticles5914]

It kinda makes sense to me because it’s basically an hd 660 s in an hd 500 series shell

[@VeggiePopper]

@@squidwardstesticles5914 Indeed, it's a 500 shell (598, 599) but with the 660S sound signature. Hence, 560S.

[@sams_salad_service3653]

I'm new to the audiofile world and this will most likely be my first real pair of headphones, I see a lot of mixed reviews for these but I keep coming back to yours, I plan to use these for gaming, listening to all types of music, and for almost everything else. You mention these are very anaylitical headphones and are very flat, I do not plan on using these for anything professional but just for listening, I probably won't be able to tell much of a difference between these and a lot of other headphones at this price point but I see a couple of people complaining about the build? I sure hope they will last.

[@suba6639]

Why did have to say all these things?! I was saving up for a Nintendo switch...

[@Tlanesi]

But you can buy the switch first and then this on a deal.

[@zZzabi]

Or wait for the drop version

[@Joe-if5rq]

Still haven't got a switch all these years. You may want to wait looks like that nintendo is planning to release a new switch for next year

[@barfo281]

@@Joe-if5rq Switch only came out about 3.5 years ago.

[@Joe-if5rq]

@@barfo281 we have ps5 and xbox series x coming out in a few months. Nintendo has to make a more powerful console something they have never done to be somewhat on the same level as Sony and xbox.

[@Nice-music585]

Man I subscribed not for the great information and awesome content. I subscribed cz your calmness, honesty, and conciseness put me in a great mood. Thank you for producing top notch content. Respect.

[@BlueBird-wb6kb]

So this or a 6XX ?, The 6XX looks more impressive. How do these compare to planar magnetics like the Auduze LCD-C

[@alondite215]

The 6XX is pretty significantly better. The only Audeze I'd even consider is the LCD-2C, but given that it's 4x the price it's not really in the same class of headphone as the 560.

[@skylordsrebornpvpreplays5795]

I'd recommend the 560S and LCD-X respectively

[@no_name9165]

been looking at getting the hd 600s for years now but after hearing this, the 560s is in the cart now AND its cheaper! thanks for the help deciding what to get. have a good one.

[@marcoscastro7650]

Great review. Do you know where can I find balanced cable for the hd560s headphones

[@davejohnson2702]

already ordered them. they will be sent tomorrow im pumped after what you just said! actually my first pair of Sennheisers too. see them in two days

[@xk964264]

Did you get them ???

[@davejohnson2702]

@@xk964264 nope. They were processed last week but they didn't deliver so when I tried to cancel they said they couldn't because it was already processed. The I got a message today saying the shipment was backed up or something dumb. I said I don't care cancel it. Its the worst experience I've ever had buying headphones.

[@FurryWooki]

I use the HD599 for music and mostly PC gaming. How do you think the 560S compares in detail and imaging? Worth the swap?

[@zthreetwo9874]

Hd599 are warmer and muddy.

[@supermeseriasu]

u still use hd 599 ? U recomand them?

[@FurryWooki]

@@supermeseriasuif you get them cheap, yeah they’re good.

[@MTater_]

Agree with everything you said but I don't personally agree that this headphone makes the 600 line obsolete. I got a pair of 560s just to try out and while they are better for mostly everything they still cant beat the 600 line at their own game which is mid-range and that focused in your head approach where you feel like the headphones are the mic. In that regard unless you can only afford 1 pair of headphones or have a tight budget which then these are one of the best options for that, I feel like getting a bunch of different headphones that are either the best or really good at certain things is a much better option than just 1 headphone that is good or decent at everything. For example based on the type of music I listen to and video games I play I have the hd 800s for my main gaming headphone and I also really enjoy them sometimes when I just want to have a wow factor and hear details and instruments from places I've never heard, HD 660s for a lot of my vocal songs and when I want to have a relaxing experience and just focus in on something and then I have an edition xs for when I want to have fun with my music and listen to hip hop or songs that have more of a bass or vibe to them. All in all this is a very good review and video!

[@lockjaw333]

Just got these in yesterday. I own the 58x and 6xx and despite this glowing review, I figured there's no way they could be that good. No way they could compete with the 6xx. Um, yep. They do. These are amazing. The soundstage alone almost makes the other two obsolete.

[@xk964264]

Same. I sold my 6xx. Now i may want them back because of a tube amp I’m about to get. I wonder if these play good with tubes

[@alondite215]

Sounds like you need better upstream gear, because the 6XX is objectively more resolving than the 560 and should best it pretty significantly in a head-to-head comparison.

[@Gamez4eveR]

never had a sennheiser and am coming from ath-ad500x and a couple iems, just ordered, should get them next week

[@mysty1353]

@@alondite215 There is no way to objectively measure headphone resolution, what do you mean?

[@chrysio7]

@@alondite215 again with your "objectively". Seems like your ego is up to the roof with your exaggerated importance of your own opinions to the point where you are pushing your opinions as something objective aka facts. Primitive af.

[@rpgfeatures793]

Use these for competitive gaming. Holy cow!!! Way better than your high end gaming headset

[@zachjaybseazer94]

Comparisons with the new Sennheiser PC38X or the SIVGA Phoenix?

[@millton1530]

Zach Balfour yes please, been looking at Sivga phoenix

[@iggu74]

I have just (pre)ordered this headphone based on this review - thanks!

[@Weaver_Games]

Now I just need to wait 6 months until Canadian stores start stocking them lol

[@denny8360]

you are exactly on time haha the good sales went live today

[@LeBeautiful]

So these are basically the brute successor to any of the HD 6XX. More soundstage and detail/imaging. *Flat, detailed and comfortable.* Even close as the Sundara??? Dope.

[@MRC325]

Some like it more than the sundara for imaging.

[@proffessasvids]

I went and got a set the other day and burned them in for 24hrs. They are excellent. In the house we have hd580's hd600's and hd650's as reference. We also have tube hybrid, class A/B and class A solid state sources of varying power levels to drive them all with. Hd580's are my daily but these have taken that spot hands down now. As stated by dms.. these pretty much do what the 580 600 and 650 do in the midband but the bass roll off of the above, doesn't happen with the 560s. Plus they have a top like the 650's They go all the way down.... and they really do. They are not boomy or one notey either whilst doing it. Just weighty where the track has weight. Makes the kick drum more realistic. They have grunt where grunt is called for. The other above hd's just skip over that part of the range. I didn't know I needed this grunt until I heard it lol.. the top end is upfront and present too. It is on the absolute edge of becoming fatiguing but hasn't upset me yet.... which is excellent.... you get detail without upset or wince at sensible listening levels. Image and stage is excellent too. I get a crystal picture just in front of my eyes which extends out wide past my ear lobes. Like I'm watching a movie, projected onto the inside of a glass bowl that I have my head in lol. They are not absolutely as crystal as the 600 or 650 all the time though.. there is the tiniest bit more confusion to the shape and isolation of the instruments when the track gets 'full on' so to speak. It's in no way a problem though and most folk probably wouldn't pick it out. I wonder if it's slight IMD stemming from the drivers ability to throw the lows harder on tracks that have it. Honestly though I really don't care lol... you can get round it by pulling the volume back 1 click and that's only if you see the problem in the first place. Build is stock senn... simply works. Clamp is tightish but that will sort it's self in time. I don't like bending headphones about... I prefer to wait until they have clamped my head thinner lol. All in.. mint set of cans for the cash. I love them. Bless to dms and the fam! Xx

[@Tox1cxTooSlowBro]

Love to see a review on Hifiman HE400i 2020, been contemplating on what pair of headphones I want next and haven't seen too many reviews on these.

[@alondite215]

The 5XX just made the 400i irrelevant. $220 on Drop.

[@MomentaryStir]

@@alondite215 Except for the fact that the 5XX doesn't sound as good as the HE400i 2020. 5XX is basically Hifiman Deva, which you can also find in Europe for a lower price than $220.

[@av0511]

Does it provides more details and better imaging than DT1990?

[@DMS3TV]

That’s tough. DT1990 has an edge on detail but these win on frequency response.

[@Tripokaridos22]

Get HD660s if u want the best imaging .

[@av0511]

@@Tripokaridos22 I tried HD660s, but for me Beyer headphones are still the king of imaging and microdetails.

[@Tripokaridos22]

@@av0511 Microdetails yeah by far... imaging i have to dissagre i use both and HD 660s image better more pin point ....maybe the big soundstage of DT1990 doesnt help a lot .

[@kristwi37]

@@Tripokaridos22but the 660s is shit for soundstage. my akg712pro is far better. but for the rest my 660s are just way better.

[@brunonjezic6208]

Really nice pleasure is to rewatch this video on my 560s

[@kbsub]

Preordered on the strength of this video , My first pair of open back headphones thought it would be a good place to start , thanks for emptying my bank account lol nice review and subbed

[@jasonbrown31485]

Where did you order them from?

[@kbsub]

Jason Brown sennheiser Canada

[@Will-is3od]

Are they good for gaming?

[@DaisyAjay]

@@Will-is3od I game with them, and they're really good. Some people want a lot of bass in their gaming headphones, but for me, they're perfect. They're so good, I can't play Alien Isolation without cold shivers. The sound of seagulls and the ocean in Valheim is so gorgeous. The audio leakage is so quiet, it isn't picked up by my AT2030 microphone nobody has complained yet, and I've played on people's twitch streams.

[@jonmarinos7170]

Just pre ordered a pair because of this review. Can't wait to get my hands on them!