Sennheiser HD 560 S
Score: 79/100
Sennheiser HD 660S2
Score: 79/100Rankings
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 Sennheiser HD 660S2 is an open-back, wired audiophile headphone delivering refined detail, deep bass extension, and a premium build. Its high impedance and lack of wireless or ANC limit use to desktop setups with a quality amp. Best suited for critical listeners and home-studio environments.
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
38 mmbest | 38 mmbest | |
| ↓ lower better | 240 gbest | 300 g |
120 Ω | 300 Ωbest | |
110 dB SPLbest | 104 dB SPL |
Click an attribute name to sort · Green = best, red = worst (relative to this comparison)
| Attribute | | |
|---|---|---|
Audio(3) | ||
Frequency Response | 6-38000 | 8-41500 Hz |
Impedance (Ω) | 120 Ω | 300 Ω |
Sensitivity (dB SPL) | 110 dB SPL | 104 dB SPL |
Build & Design(2) | ||
Weight (g) | 240 g | 300 g |
Dimensions (H×W×D) (mm) | 89×115×48 mm mm | 177.8x177.8x76.2 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.”
Pick the HD 560S for the lightest, most affordable neutral option; pick the HD 660S if you want a semi-open design with a bit more treble sparkle.
Professional reviewers consider the HD 660S2 a significant technical upgrade over the original HD 660S, citing its refined voice coil, lower resonant frequency, and enhanced airflow as key contributors to superior bass extension, clarity, and overall resolution.
Everyday users praise the HD 660S2 for its detailed, balanced sound and comfortable velour pads, while noting the need for a solid amplifier and the open-back design's lack of isolation.
