Sennheiser HD 560 S
Score: 79/100
Audio-Technica ATH-R50X
Score: 76/100Rankings
The Sennheiser HD 560S are open-back, over-ear headphones delivering a neutral, linear sound signature ideal for critical listening. Their open design leaks sound and they need an amp for full volume, limiting portability. Perfect for studio engineers and audiophiles seeking an affordable reference headphone.
The ATH-R50x offers a lightweight open-back design with strong bass and comfortable wear, making it suitable for critical listening in quiet environments. However, its pronounced treble peak and lack of isolation limit its use in noisy settings. Best for studio professionals and audiophiles who prioritize soundstage over isolation.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
38 mm | 45 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 240 g | 207 gbest |
120 Ωbest | 50 Ω | |
110 dB SPLbest | 93.3 dB SPL |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(4) | ||
Frequency Response | 6-38000 | 5-40000 |
Driver Size (mm) | 38 mm | 45 mm |
Impedance (Ω) | 120 Ω | 50 Ω |
Sensitivity (dB SPL) | 110 dB SPL | 93.3 dB SPL |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 240 g | 207 g |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 89×115×48 mm mm | 199.9x169.9x101.6 mm |
Products in the top-left offer the best value (high score, low price).
Professional reviewers commend the HD 560S for its honest, linear tuning that excels in A/B comparisons and critical studio work, noting its deep yet controlled bass, brilliant treble, ultra-low distortion, and fatigue-free comfort, while also pointing out the open-back leakage, need for an amp to reach full volume, and the non-folding bulk as drawbacks.
Everyday users love the lightweight comfort, neutral sound without bass bloat, and spacious open soundstage, especially when paired with a portable amp, but they commonly complain about the need for an amp for adequate volume, sound leakage, and the bulky, non-folding design that requires a larger case.
“Extremely comfortable/lightweight, neutral sound without bass bloat or distortion, spacious open sound, works well with amps (e.g., JM6 portable).”
“Needs amp for sufficient volume from phones.”
“good clarity from the 4 kHz peak but criticizes the 6-10 kHz 10 dB peak for sharpness”
Professional reviewers commend the ATH-R50x for its lightweight comfort, strong bass for an open-back design, accurate midrange, and easy driveability at 50 Ω, noting its natural soundstage and precise transients make it a solid reference tool. However, they point out a pronounced treble peak between 6 kHz and 10 kHz that can sound harsh, and the inherent sound leakage of the open-back architecture limits its use in noisy settings.
Everyday users echo the professional praise for comfort and spacious sound, especially appreciating the bass punch and value for studio use. Recurring criticisms focus on the sharp treble in the upper mids/highs and the lack of isolation, which can cause fatigue and disturb others in shared spaces.
