Overview

The Sennheiser HD 560S arrived as a focused reference model in Sennheiser’s long-standing HD 500 family, bridging the gap between consumer audio and uncompromising studio monitoring. Engineered around an analytical, flat frequency response, the HD 560S caters to music producers, competitive gamers, and audiophiles seeking raw transparency rather than artificial bass boosts.

Unlike traditional entry-level dynamic headphones that artificially hype mid-bass, the HD 560S focuses on linear low-end extension and clear treble detail. By utilizing angled internal transducers inside an open-back acoustic chamber, it creates a natural, loudspeaker-like presentation. Years after its release, it remains a benchmark for affordable critical listening.

Design and build

Built on Sennheiser’s proven HD 500-series frame, the HD 560S features an all-plastic outer shell finished in matte black. While some users might prefer metal headband yokes, the high-grade polymer chassis keeps the total weight extremely low. Combined with plush, breathable velour ear cushions and a soft headband pad, the headset distributes pressure evenly across the crown and jaw for strain-free, multi-hour sessions.

Routing power to the transducers is a detachable single-sided cable connected via a proprietary 2.5mm twist-lock jack inside the left ear cup. While this twist-lock mechanism prevents accidental yanks from disconnecting the cable during active use, it does require dedicated slim-barrel cables if you ever seek a replacement or custom length.

Everyday performance

In terms of raw acoustic performance, the HD 560S excels at revealing fine details without sounding overly harsh or fatigue-inducing. The angled driver layout creates a wider soundstage with exceptionally clear imaging, allowing competitive FPS gamers to pin-point directional footsteps and audio engineers to isolate distinct instruments across a wide stereo mix.

Bass response is remarkably extended for an open-back design in this price category. Sub-bass rolls off gently without muddying the clean midrange, preserving vocal clarity and acoustic instrument naturalness. Treble extension is crisp, offering great micro-detail retrieval. Thanks to a relatively low impedance and high sensitivity, you do not need a massive desktop amplifier to reach full dynamic volume—a standard audio interface, USB DAC, or even a smartphone dongle drives it effortlessly.

Battery, durability, and longevity

As a fully passive wired headphone, the HD 560S eliminates battery degradation concerns entirely. Long-term durability is predominantly determined by physical wear and tear on plastic joints, cable connections, and soft materials. The plastic headband retains its spring tension well over time without snapping, provided it isn't flexed excessively beyond normal head widths.

Component replacement on the HD 560S is refreshingly simple. The velour earpads click into plastic retainers on the earcups and can be popped off by hand without tools. The headband padding is similarly replaceable. Keep in mind that as velour pads age, they compress and absorb skin oils, which slightly dampens the treble and increases bass seal. Replacing pads every 18 to 24 months restores the factory reference sound.

Common issues owners hit

Despite its strong acoustic engineering, several common points of failure can crop up over extended ownership. The primary physical failure point is the internal 2.5mm twist-lock jack assembly inside the left earcup. Continuous tugging or strain on the audio cable can weaken internal solder joints, causing intermittent sound cutouts in one channel.

Acoustically, open-back designs naturally expose the rear of the dynamic transducer to ambient dust and loose hairs. A single stray hair poking through the acoustic mesh onto the diaphragm will produce a distinct buzzing or rattling sound, particularly during low-frequency bass hits. Fortunately, this can often be resolved by removing the earpad and carefully clearing the debris. If you encounter audio dropouts or driver noise, explore our Sennheiser HD 560S device page and step-by-step troubleshooting guides in our problems hub.

Who it's for

The HD 560S is designed for listeners who prioritize clinical accuracy, spatial depth, and comfort over colored, bass-heavy audio signatures. It is an ideal pick for home studio producers mixing tracks, competitive gamers needing pinpoint directional audio cues, and audiophiles looking for a neutral open-back headphone without spending high-end money.

It is less suited for noisy commuting environments due to sound leakage inherent to open-back designs, nor for listeners who prefer heavy sub-bass punch for bass-centric genres.

Bottom line

The Sennheiser HD 560S delivers an outstanding balance of analytical sound quality, long-wear comfort, and practical serviceability. Its lightweight plastic construction keeps cost and weight down, while modular components ensure you can replace worn pads and cables long into the device's lifecycle.

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