The Sennheiser HD 560S is an open-backed dynamic over-ear headphone model that represents the point of entry into the manufacturer's audiophile product line and gives users a cable-bound solution with a finely detailed, honest, and punchy sound as well as a high level of wearing comfort (designed with home music enjoyment in mind), all at an attractive price. However, the model is also suitable for mixing and editing work in the production sector thanks to its wide-band, neutral sound character and its wealth of detail. Likewise, the HD 560S is a good choice when it comes to direct monitoring of digital pianos, synthesizers, or amp modellers.
For the open-backed construction of these headphones, Sennheiser uses powerful magnets that safely drive slightly angled polymer-blend membranes. The manufacturer refers to this as Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement, the aim of which is to simulate as closely as possible the sound of speakers. The HD 560S headphones indeed offer a balanced and lively sonic impression that audibly sets itself apart from budget products, which means they can serve as a reliable tool for newcomers and up-and-comers in the field of music production. At the same time, the headphones provide level reserves that are sufficient even on a smartphone - and an adapter for the 3.5mm jack format is included in the scope of delivery.
Sennheiser classifies the HD 560S as an entry-level over-ear model in the audiophile product group within the consumer class. Thanks to their low weight, velour padding, and length-adjustable headband, these no-frills, cable-bound headphones not only offer an impressive sound but are also very comfortable to wear. What is more, their construction is sturdy and reliable as a result of the combination of stable plastic and protective metal grilles on the outside of the earpieces. With its open-backed design, the HD 560S is recommended for enjoying music on the one hand, but is also ideal for use by music producers who want a solid basis for assessing their mixing and editing work that won't break the bank.
In June 1945, Prof. Fritz Sennheiser founded the Wennebostel Laboratory, which initially produced measuring equipment. Commissioned by Siemens in 1945, the young company developed the MD-1 microphone, which was launched in 1946. After the development of further microphones, the company was renamed Sennheiser Electronic in 1958. Two years later, Sennheiser introduced the MD 421 dynamic microphone, which is still in production today and still held in high esteem by many sound engineers. Further groundbreaking developments, such as the HD 414 headphones and the MD 441 microphone classic, hugely enhanced the company’s international reputation, eventually making Sennheiser one of the leading manufacturers of microphone and headphone systems in the world.
Thanks to their high level of wearing comfort, the HD 560S headphones are also great for longer listening sessions. The sound results are balanced with a tight bass, generally rich in detail and open in the treble range. The stereo panorama, the dynamics, and the spatial sound are also reproduced in an appealing and comprehensible manner, so that the headphones are also a good choice for producers who are looking for monitoring qualities in addition to music or film playback. Depending on the production, the HD 560S reliably reproduces the punch, warmth, transparency, and proximity of the incoming signals, and is also an excellent choice for home use with synthesisers and other instruments with a headphone output. It should be noted, however, that this model is not designed for use on the stage or in the recording room.