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The Sennheiser HD 560S and HD 599 are both wired, open-back, over-ear headphones, but they are aimed at different listening priorities. Sennheiser positions the HD 560S for analytical listening and the HD 599 around comfort and spatial presentation. Neither is a universal winner: choose based on the sound presentation you prefer, how each fits, your device connections, and whether sound leakage is acceptable where you listen.
How the HD 560S and HD 599 differ
The clearest distinction is Sennheiser’s intended use, not a proven ranking of sound quality. The company describes the HD 560S as suited to neutral, analytical listening and comparing audio components or media. It presents the HD 599 in terms of comfort and natural spatial performance. These are manufacturer descriptions, not independent proof that either model is more accurate or sounds better to every listener.
| Feature | Sennheiser HD 560S | Sennheiser HD 599 |
|---|---|---|
| Design | Wired, open-back, over-ear | Wired, open-back, over-ear |
| Manufacturer positioning | Analytical listening; neutral/reference presentation | Comfort and natural spatial performance |
| Impedance | 120 Ω, stated in Sennheiser’s 2020 launch announcement | 50 Ω, listed on Sennheiser’s product page |
| Weight | 280 g, manufacturer specification | 250 g, manufacturer specification |
| Connection and included cable details | 3.5 mm cable with screw-on 6.3 mm adapter | Detachable cable options and adapters; Sennheiser lists 3 m and 1.2 m cable lengths with 6.3 mm and 3.5 mm connections |
The figures are manufacturer specifications, not independent comparative measurements. Sennheiser lists different test conditions for the models’ distortion and sound-pressure figures, so those figures should not be read as a like-for-like performance contest. Frequency-response endpoints likewise do not establish which headphone will sound better to you. See the HD 560S specifications, the HD 599 specifications, and Sennheiser’s 2020 HD 560S announcement for the company’s product details.
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Which one suits your listening?
Choose the HD 560S if analytical listening is the priority
Sennheiser describes the HD 560S for neutral listening and for comparing components or media. That makes it the more natural starting point if you want a headphone the manufacturer frames around inspecting recordings rather than emphasizing comfort or spatial presentation. Treat “neutral” and “accurate” as Sennheiser’s positioning, not a guarantee of a preferred sound or a substitute for independent measurements.
#1 Best Overall
- Premium, around-ear, open back headphones: Audiophile sound combined with premium design and materials
- Padded headband and luxurious velour covered ear pads perfect for long listening sessions with no pressure on the ears
- Multiple connectivity options: Robust 3 meter detachable cable and 6.3 millimeter jack and additional 1.2 meter detachable cable with 3.5 millimeter Jack
- Timeless design cues: Ivory color, matte finish together with the brown headband stitching and matte metallic detail convey quality at first glance
- Premium Components: Sennheiser engineered transducers use aluminum voice coils delivering high efficiency, excellent dynamics and extremely low distortion
Choose the HD 599 if comfort and spatial presentation matter more
Sennheiser highlights the HD 599’s comfort and natural spatial performance, and its product page notes soft, replaceable earpads. Its listed weight is 30 g lower than the HD 560S, though weight alone cannot tell you whether the fit will feel better: head shape, clamp, and personal preference matter. If possible, try the fit or buy from a retailer with a return policy that lets you assess it at home.
Will open-back headphones work where you listen?
Both models are open-back. That design makes them a poor choice when you need sound isolation: audio can escape into the room, and outside sounds are not blocked like they are by a closed-back design. What Hi-Fi? specifically notes that the HD 560S leaks sound by design. The same open-back construction means you should not assume the HD 599 will isolate you on a commute or keep your listening private in a shared room.
Rank #2
- Dynamic, closed ear headphones with up to 32 dB attenuation of outside sound
- Lightweight and comfortable, ergonomic design, Cord Length 3.3 9.8 feet Coiled
- Extended frequency response and warm, natural sound reproduction
- Around the ear design with padded earcups
- Earpads, headband padding, and audio cord are easily replaceable, ensuring long life
Consider another type of headphone if you listen near sleeping family, coworkers, a microphone, or other people who need quiet. Open-back models make more sense in a listening space where leakage is acceptable.
Check the connection and cable before buying
The HD 560S is listed with a 3.5 mm cable and a screw-on 6.3 mm adapter. Sennheiser lists the HD 599 with detachable cable options, including 3 m and 1.2 m lengths and 6.3 mm and 3.5 mm connections. Check which cable is included with the specific listing you plan to buy, and make sure its connector and length suit your source and setup.
Rank #3
- High sensitivity due to lightweight aluminium voice coils
- Capable of handling very high sound pressure levels
- Very lightweight and comfortable, even if used for long periods of time
- Tough, detachable, single-sided cable
Sennheiser also lists a 4.4 mm balanced cable for the HD 599/HD 560S model family. It is an optional accessory for a compatible output, not a required upgrade; do not buy it unless your audio device supports that connection.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How to make the final choice
- Pick the HD 560S if Sennheiser’s analytical, neutral-listening orientation matches what you want to explore.
- Pick the HD 599 if its comfort and spatial-performance emphasis appeals more, while remembering that fit is personal.
- Rule out both if you need meaningful noise isolation or minimal sound leakage.
- Compare the exact cable, connector, return policy, current price, and stock for the listing in your country.
Prices vary by market and date. For context only, What Hi-Fi? reported a £89 Sevenoaks offer in the UK on January 26, 2026, against a stated prior price of £169; that was a dated retailer deal, not a current or global price recommendation. Check the deal report for its context and verify today’s local price and availability before purchasing.
Quick Recap
Rank #4
- High sensitivity due to lightweight aluminium voice coils
- Capable of handling very high sound pressure levels
- Very lightweight and comfortable, even if used for long periods of time
- Tough, detachable, single-sided cable
- Rotatable capsule for single-ear listening
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
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