Sennheiser HD 560S Open-Back Over-Ear Wired Headphones – Neutral, Natural Sound for Music, Gaming, and Content Creation, Black
Best for
Best open-back under $200
Amazon rating
Amazon aggregate — one input among many in the Verdict Score
Based on 1 trusted source
Current price
$158.00
Updated May 14, 2026 · 1 min read
The consensus
What reviewers found
Synthesized across the trust-weighted source mix below.
Across the reviewers we read, the Sennheiser HD 560S is the most consistently recommended sub-$200 open-back of the past few years. Multiple r/headphones threads — including impressions from self-described high-end listeners — describe the tuning as neutral, well-imaged, and unusually capable for the price, and Sennheiser's own positioning as a content-creation and gaming-friendly reference is largely supported by community testimony. The 6,000+ Amazon reviews averaging 4.6 stars line up with that picture.
What reviewers liked
- Neutral, reference-style tuning praised across r/headphones threads
- Easy to drive from most interfaces and PCs
- Strong soundstage and imaging for the price, repeatedly noted in community reviews
- Very strong Amazon rating (4.6 / 3,600+) corroborates expert sentiment
Where it falls short
- Reviewers repeatedly describe bass and attack as understated or 'flat'
- Plastic build feels utilitarian compared to higher-tier Sennheisers
- No isolation — open-back design leaks heavily, per common reviewer notes
- Cable and connector design draws occasional complaints in community threads
Across the reviewers we read, the Sennheiser HD 560S is the most consistently recommended sub-$200 open-back of the past few years. Multiple r/headphones threads — including impressions from self-described high-end listeners — describe the tuning as neutral, well-imaged, and unusually capable for the price, and Sennheiser's own positioning as a content-creation and gaming-friendly reference is largely supported by community testimony. The 6,000+ Amazon reviews averaging 4.6 stars line up with that picture.
The consistent reviewer criticism is character: r/headphones and r/HeadphoneAdvice users repeatedly describe the 560S as 'flat,' 'normal,' and lacking the slam or bass impact some listeners expect, with one detailed thread noting the attack on synths and drums feels softer than anticipated. That's a feature for mixing and analytical listening and a drawback for casual fun listening, and reviewers are honest about that trade. Specialist consensus is that it's a poor fit if you want warmth or punch, and an excellent fit if you want a neutral reference at a price that doesn't require a serious amp.
- Feature 1
- Wide, Natural Soundstage: Open-back design delivers lifelike depth and directional detail. Ideal for music lovers and gamers seeking a more immersive alternative, and creators working on at home audio or video content.
- Feature 2
- Neutral, Accurate Sound: Precision-tuned transducers reveal subtle details across the entire frequency range. Excellent for audiophile listening and refining audio during content creation.
- Feature 3
- Lightweight Comfort: Velour ear pads and ventilated earcups reduce heat buildup and pressure, supporting long listening sessions for music, gaming, schoolwork, or content creation from home.
- Feature 4
- Reliable Wired Performance: Includes detachable cable with 6.35mm plug and 3.5mm adapter for PCs, laptops, record players, and home audio. Excellent headphones for PC, corded listening setups, and plug-in devices.
- Feature 5
- Clarity for Gaming & Detailed Listening: Open-back acoustics improve positional accuracy, helping you hear subtle details across music, games, and voice recordings; great for gamers and creators.
- Feature 6
- Engineered for Everyday Reliability: Built with durable materials and Sennheiser acoustic design heritage for consistent sound quality across entertainment, work, creative recording, and at home listening.
- Feature 7
- Made for Your Everyday Devices: Works effortlessly with PCs, laptops, DACs, home stereos, and other plug-in sources, ideal for listeners who prefer dependable wired headphones over wireless options.
- Feature 8
- Complete Listening Package: Includes HD 560S headphones, detachable cable, 6.35mm–3.5mm adapter, and quick-start guide for easy setup with your existing audio gear.
What I didn't expect is for it to sound so incredible. Like I get they are high end headphones but WOW. People say they sound flat (or neutral?)
The 560S I use for electronic and ambient music. They are very detailed and have nice imaging and staging. They don't have the same realism or ...
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“Sennheiser HD 560S Review in FIVE MINUTES” · YouTube
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