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The Sennheiser HD 560 S delivers a neutral frequency response and an open-back design for accurate sound reproduction. If you are looking for sennheiser HD 560 s over the ear alternatives, you might want a different size, weight, or brand. Some users prefer a warmer tone or a more durable build for studio work. Others need a lighter fit for long sessions. We selected these options because their specifications overlap with the original model. Each alternative shares key traits like open-back acoustics or over-ear comfort. This list covers seven models that match your core needs. You can compare driver sizes, impedance, and materials to find the best fit. The data focuses on what matters for your listening habits. Whether you need precise imaging or extended bass, these specs guide your choice. Read on to see how each model compares.
How the alternatives compare
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm shares the open-back design and over-ear fit of the HD 560 S. It weighs slightly more at 9.5 ounces compared to 8.48 ounces. The Beyerdynamic model is sized for studio mixing and critical listening. It offers a wider soundstage for spatial imaging. You get a durable wired connection that prioritizes accuracy. The 80 Ohm impedance may require more power from your source. If you need a tool for professional monitoring rather than casual listening, this model fits. It gives up some portability for build robustness and specific acoustic tuning.
Philips Fidelio X2HR Open-Back Wired Headphones
The Philips Fidelio X2HR is an open-back wired headphone with a detachable cable, similar to the HD 560 S. It is significantly heavier at 13.4 ounces. The larger dimensions make it less comfortable for some users. It targets stationary studio monitoring and detailed listening. You get a wide soundstage and replaceable components. The fit is over-ear, ensuring isolation from ambient noise while maintaining openness. If you prioritize durability and a specific tonal balance for desk work, this is a strong option. It sacrifices lightness and compactness for a more substantial build and extended frequency reach.
Sennheiser HD 660S2 Open-Back Headphones
The Sennheiser HD 660S2 is also an open-back over-ear headphone from the same brand. It weighs 10.6 ounces, making it heavier than the HD 560 S. It features plush cushions for long listening sessions. The model is designed for detailed audio reproduction and gaming. You get a wired connection with open-back acoustics. The transducers offer precise audio performance. If you value comfort and refined detail over the base model, this upgrade suits you. It provides a more luxurious feel and enhanced clarity. You give up the lighter weight and lower price point of the HD 560 S.
MEZE Audio 105 AER Open-Back Headphones
The MEZE Audio 105 AER is an open-back wired headphone with a warm, bass-forward sound. It weighs 2.58 pounds, which is much heavier than the HD 560 S. The build uses durable, replaceable hardware. It is designed for audiophiles who prefer rich tonal balance. The over-ear fit provides comfort for focused listening. You get a wired connection that ensures stable performance. If you want a different tonal character with more low-end presence, this model is ideal. It sacrifices the neutral reference sound of the HD 560 S for a more musical presentation. The weight may be a factor for extended use.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Open-Air
The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is an open-back headphone with a lightweight design. It weighs 1.1 pounds, which is lighter than the HD 560 S. The model offers natural sound for long listening sessions. It is designed for audiophiles who want comfort without ear fatigue. The open-air design allows sound to expand naturally. You get a simple, durable build for home listening. If you prioritize lightness and natural tonality, this is a good alternative. It gives up the specific E.A.R. technology and wider soundstage of the HD 560 S. It is ideal for users who want a less intrusive listening experience.
Aune AR5000MK2 Open-Back Headphones
The Aune AR5000MK2 is an open-back over-ear headphone with a detachable cable. It features a 50mm driver for detailed highs. The model has a metal build for durability. It is designed for audiophiles who want a wide soundstage. The champagne gold color offers a distinct look. You get easy-to-drive open-back performance. If you prefer a different aesthetic and detailed imaging, this model suits you. It provides a wide soundstage and precise audio. You may find the build quality and driver size appealing for critical listening. It differs from the HD 560 S in material choice and visual design.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back Best overall | home audiophiles seeking neutral sound | |
| 2 | Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones Best mixing | Studio mixing and critical listening | |
| 3 | Philips Fidelio X2HR Open-Back Wired Headphones Best budget | stationary studio monitoring and detailed listening | |
| 4 | Sennheiser HD 660S2 Open-Back Headphones Best premium | detailed audio and long listening comfort | |
| 5 | MEZE Audio 105 AER Open-Back Headphones Also great | warm, bass-forward open-back listening | |
| 6 | Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Open-Air Also great | Long listening sessions with natural sound | |
| 7 | Aune AR5000MK2 Open-Back Headphones Also great | Portable open-back listening with wide soundstage |
Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back
Best for: home audiophiles seeking neutral sound
- Connectivity
- 3.5 mm, 6.3 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-The-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Color
- Black
The Sennheiser HD 560 S is an open-back, over-ear headphone designed for audiophiles seeking neutral sound. It features E.A.R. Technology that tilts drivers to match your ear angle for a wide soundstage. The cable includes a detachable 3.35mm jack adapter for direct connection. Weighing 8.48 ounces, it offers a comfortable fit for long listening sessions with accurate reference sound.
- Open-back design allows natural sound wave expansion
- E.A.R. Technology tilts drivers for ergonomic fit
- Includes detachable cable with 3.5mm jack adapter
- Neutral frequency response for accurate audio
- Heavier build at 8.48 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Open-back design limits use in noisy environments
- Fixed 3.5mm connection requires adapter for 6.3mm ports
- You want neutral, reference-grade sound for critical listening
- You prefer open-back designs for a wider soundstage
- You need a detachable cable for easy replacement
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You need a closed-back design for noise isolation
- You prioritize lightweight portability over sound accuracy
Verdict: Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back Headphones delivers precise audio for listeners who value accuracy over portability. It suits home audiophiles who want a neutral sound signature and do not mind the wired setup.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
Best for: Studio mixing and critical listening
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing, Gaming
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 8.7 × 4.7 × 9.1 inches
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO (80 Ohm) is an open-back, over-ear wired headphone designed for studio mixing. It features a wide 5–35,000 Hz frequency response and a 3-meter straight cable with a 1/4" adapter. The 80-ohm impedance suits various audio setups. Weighing 9.5 ounces, it offers a lightweight fit with replaceable ear pads for extended sessions.
- 80-ohm impedance for versatile studio and home use
- 5–35,000 Hz frequency response for detailed sound
- 3-meter straight cable with 1/4" adapter
- Open-back design for natural soundstage
- Heavier at 9.5 ounces compared to lighter competitors
- Wired connection limits portable use
- Only one impedance option listed here
- You need open-back headphones for mixing
- You prefer wired connections for stability
- You want replaceable ear pads for longevity
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You need a lightweight under-8-ounce design
- You want closed-back isolation
Verdict: Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm provides a wide soundstage and durable build for studio professionals. It fits users who prioritize accurate spatial imaging and wired reliability over portability.
Philips Fidelio X2HR Open-Back Wired Headphones
Best for: stationary studio monitoring and detailed listening
- Connectivity
- 3. 5Mm Stereo; 1/4-Inch
- Form Factor
- Over The Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Connection
- Wired
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Studio
The Philips Fidelio X2HR is a wired, open-back over-ear headphone designed for studio monitoring and critical listening. It features 50 mm neodymium drivers with an LMC diaphragm and Hi-Res Audio certification for extended frequency response. The build includes a lightweight hammock headband and breathable velour ear-pads. You will appreciate the detachable 3.5 mm cable and 1/4-inch adapter for versatile connectivity.
- 50 mm high definition neodymium drivers with LMC diaphragm
- Hi-Res Audio Certified with extended response frequencies
- Acoustic open-back architecture for natural soundstage
- Detachable 3.5 mm cable with 1/4-inch adapter included
- Breathable velour ear-pads with genuine leather headband
- Heavier at 13.4 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Larger dimensions with a 7.48 inch width
- Wired connection limits mobility
- You want open-back sound for studio monitoring
- You prefer detachable cables for easy replacement
- You need Hi-Res Audio certification for detail
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You need a closed-back design for isolation
- You prefer a lighter, more portable build
Verdict: Philips Fidelio X2HR Open-Back Headphones suit listeners who prioritize detailed, open soundstage and durable, replaceable components. They are ideal for stationary studio use or desk listening where weight and size are manageable.
Sennheiser HD 660S2 Open-Back Headphones
Best for: detailed audio and long listening comfort
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles, Gaming
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 3 × 7 × 7 inches
The Sennheiser HD 660S2 is an open-back over-ear headphone designed for audiophiles and gamers. It features 42mm transducers with an ultra-light aluminum voice coil for detailed highs and deep bass. The 27.5 Hz to 50,000 Hz frequency range ensures precise audio reproduction. Weighing 10.6 ounces, it offers a comfortable fit for long listening sessions. This wired model delivers a spacious soundstage and natural high-fidelity sound.
- 42mm transducers with ultra-light aluminum voice coil
- 27.5 Hz to 50,000 Hz frequency response
- Open-back design for spacious soundstage
- Plush ear cushions for fatigueless listening
- Deep, controlled bass down to 27.5 Hz
- Heavier build at 10.6 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Open-back design limits sound isolation in noisy environments
- Wired connection restricts mobility during use
- You prioritize detailed highs and deep sub-bass for music or gaming
- You need a comfortable over-ear fit for long listening sessions
- You want a spacious soundstage for immersive audio experiences
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity for mobile use
- You need closed-back design for noise isolation
- You prefer a lighter headphone under 10 ounces
Verdict: Sennheiser HD 660S2 Open-Back suits listeners who value precise audio reproduction and comfort. Its detailed transducers and plush cushions make it ideal for extended gaming or music sessions. You should choose this if you prefer wired performance and open-back acoustics.
MEZE Audio 105 AER Open-Back Headphones
Best for: warm, bass-forward open-back listening
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-The-Ear, Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 12 × 10 × 4.5 inches
- Weight
- 2.58 pounds
The Meze Audio 105 AER is a wired, over-ear headphone with 50 mm dynamic drivers. It features an open-back design for a spacious soundstage. The build uses zinc alloy and steel. It weighs 2.58 pounds. This model suits audiophiles who want a warm, bass-forward tonal balance. It includes a detachable 1.8 m cable and a hard carrying pouch.
- 50 mm dynamic drivers
- Open-back design
- Wired connection
- Detachable 1.8 m Kevlar cable
- Replaceable components
- Heavier at 2.58 pounds
- Wired connection only
- Smaller 50 mm driver size
- You prefer a warm, bass-emphasized sound signature
- You want a lightweight, open-back design for long sessions
- You value replaceable parts for longevity
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You prefer a lighter, under-2-pound build
- You want a closed-back design for noise isolation
Verdict: Meze Audio 105 AER Open-Back fits listeners who prioritize a rich, warm tonal balance and durable, replaceable hardware. Its open-back design and wired connection make it ideal for focused listening at home.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Open-Air
Best for: Long listening sessions with natural sound
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5mm
- Form Factor
- Open-Air
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 11 × 5 × 88 inches
The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is an open-back headphone designed for audiophiles who value comfort and natural sound. It features 53 mm drivers with a 20–20,000 Hz frequency response. The 38-ohm impedance and 100 dB/mW sensitivity allow for clear treble and midrange reproduction. Its lightweight aluminum honeycomb casing and self-adjusting wing support minimize pressure on your ears. This wired model connects via a 3.5mm jack.
- 53 mm drivers deliver clear treble and midrange
- Lightweight aluminum honeycomb casing reduces weight
- Self-adjusting 3D Wing Support ensures a natural fit
- Open-back design prevents ear pressure
- Heavier at 1.1 pounds compared to lighter competitors
- Lower 38-ohm impedance than the 80-ohm DT 990 PRO
- Smaller 53 mm driver size versus 50 mm or larger options
- You prioritize a lightweight build for long listening sessions
- You want an open-back design for a natural soundstage
- You use a 3.5mm source without needing an amplifier
- You need wireless connectivity for mobile use
- You prefer a closed-back design for noise isolation
- You require a higher impedance for professional studio monitoring
Verdict: The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Lightweight Open-Back suits listeners who want a comfortable, natural sound experience without ear fatigue. It is ideal for home listening where its open design can shine.
Aune AR5000MK2 Open-Back Headphones
Best for: Portable open-back listening with wide soundstage
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear, Open-Back
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Audiophiles
The Aune AR5000 MK2 uses a 50mm open-back dynamic driver with a Multi-Layer Distributed diaphragm. It features a low impedance of 28 ohms, making it easy to drive from portable devices or desktop setups. The all-metal headband and champagne gold finish provide a durable build. You get a large-tilt-angle acoustic structure for a wide soundstage. This model suits audiophiles seeking extended highs and natural vocal reproduction.
- 50mm open-back dynamic driver with MLD diaphragm for extended highs
- Low 28 ohm impedance for easy driving by portable devices
- All-metal headband assembly for structural rigidity
- Large-tilt-angle driver panel creates a wide soundstage
- 28 ohm impedance is lower than the 80 ohm DT 990 PRO
- Champagne gold color is a single fixed option
- 255x290x130mm dimensions are bulkier than the ATH-AD700X
- You want open-back sound with a wide soundstage
- You need headphones that are easy to drive from portable sources
- You prefer an all-metal headband for durability
- You require closed-back isolation for noisy environments
- You prefer a lighter, less bulky over-ear design
- You want multiple color options for your setup
Verdict: Aune AR5000 MK2 Open-Back Over-Ear Headphones deliver a wide soundstage and detailed highs through a 50mm driver. They fit users who want easy-to-drive open-back cans with a durable metal build.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back | Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones | Philips Fidelio X2HR Open-Back Wired Headphones | Sennheiser HD 660S2 Open-Back Headphones | MEZE Audio 105 AER Open-Back Headphones | Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Open-Air | Aune AR5000MK2 Open-Back Headphones |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | 3.5 mm, 6.3 mm | Wired, 3.5 mm | 3. 5Mm Stereo; 1/4-Inch | Wired | Wired, 3.5 mm | Wired, 3.5mm | – |
| Form Factor | Over-The-Ear | Over-Ear | Over The Ear | Over-Ear | Over-The-Ear, Open-Back | Open-Air | Over-Ear, Open-Back |
| Back Design | Open-Back | Open-Back | Open-Back | Open-Back | Open-Back | Open-Back | Open-Back |
| Connection | – | Wired | Wired | – | Wired | – | – |
| Fit | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | – | Over-Ear |
| Features | Detachable Cable | – | Detachable Cable | – | – | – | Detachable Cable |
| Use | Audiophiles | Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing, Gaming | Studio | Audiophiles, Gaming | Audiophiles | Audiophiles | Audiophiles |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Champagne gold |
| Dimensions | 6.06 × 3.07 × 5.67 inches | 8.7 × 4.7 × 9.1 inches | 4.33 × 7.48 × 9.06 inches | 3 × 7 × 7 inches | 12 × 10 × 4.5 inches | 11 × 5 × 88 inches | – |
| Weight | 8.48 ounces | 9.5 ounces | 13.4 ounces | 10.6 ounces | 2.58 pounds | 1.1 pounds | – |
| Size | size | 80 OHM | Classic Fidelio | X2HR | Medium | 50 mm | 53 mm | 255*290*130mm |
| Model | 615104356146 | DT 990 PRO-cr | X2HR/00 | 700240 | 105AER | ATH-AD700X | AR5000 MK2 |
Frequently asked questions
Which open-back headphones offer a warmer sound than the Sennheiser HD 560 S?
The MEZE Audio 105 AER provides a warm, bass-forward tonal balance. It uses a 50 mm driver and features replaceable hardware for durability. This wired, open-back model suits listeners who prefer rich audio over strict neutrality. It is designed for focused home listening sessions where spatial imaging is less critical than tonal warmth.
What is the lightest open-back option for long listening sessions?
The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is the lightest choice at 1.1 pounds. Its open-air design aims to reduce ear fatigue during extended use. The 53 mm driver delivers a natural sound signature. This model is ideal for home audiophiles who prioritize comfort and lightweight construction over heavy bass response or portable connectivity.
Are there studio-focused alternatives with a wide soundstage?
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm offers a wide soundstage suitable for studio mixing. It weighs 9.5 ounces and features an open-back design for accurate spatial imaging. This wired model is built for critical listening and gaming. Its durable construction makes it a reliable choice for professionals who need precise audio reproduction.
Which headphones have detachable cables for easier maintenance?
The Sennheiser HD 560 S and Philips Fidelio X2HR both feature detachable cables. The Philips model weighs 13.4 ounces and is designed for stationary studio monitoring. Its open-back design supports detailed listening. The detachable cable allows you to replace the wire easily, extending the lifespan of the headphones for long-term home use.
What is the most comfortable option for extended gaming or music sessions?
The Sennheiser HD 660S2 is designed for long listening comfort with plush cushions. It weighs 10.6 ounces and uses detailed transducers for precise audio reproduction. This open-back, wired model suits audiophiles and gamers who value comfort. Its over-ear fit ensures a secure seal while maintaining the open acoustic benefits for immersive sound.
Can I find open-back headphones with a metal build?
The Aune AR5000MK2 features a durable metal build and a 50mm driver. It delivers a wide soundstage with detailed highs. This open-back model is easy to drive and includes a detachable cable. Its champagne gold color and robust construction make it suitable for audiophiles who want a sturdy, high-quality listening experience at home.