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HiFiMAN HE 560 V4 vs Sennheiser HD 650: which should you buy?

On aggregated review scores the Sennheiser HD 650 comes out ahead with an HearWiki score of 85. The full breakdown - sub-scores, specs and what reviewers actually said - is below.

Our pick: Sennheiser HD 650 - Outstanding overall at around $380.

Score breakdown

Each axis is a 0–10 blend of what reviewers scored, not a lab measurement.

HiFiMAN HE 560 V4
Sound7.5
Value7.0
Sennheiser HD 650
Sound9.0
Value7.5

Specifications

Specification comparison of HiFiMAN HE 560 V4 vs Sennheiser HD 650
SpecHiFiMAN HE 560 V4Sennheiser HD 650
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$229$380
HearWiki score72 / 100 · Good85 / 100 · Outstanding
Released2016-
Audio
Driverplanardynamic
Driver size75 mm42 mm
Drivers per side12
Frequency response15Hz-50kHz10Hz-41kHz
Impedance45 Ω300 Ω
Sensitivity90 dB/mW99.8 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)-103
Wireless
Multipoint pairingNoNo
Features
Active noise cancellingNoNo
Controlsnonebuttons
Design
Weight374.21 g260 g
Foldable-No
Detachable cableYesYes
USB-C-No
Balanced connectionYesYes

What reviewers said

HiFiMAN HE 560 V4

The HiFiMAN HE 560 V4 is an open-back planar headphone that delivers a refined, detailed sound with a spacious stage, favoring nuance over punchy dynamics. It's lightweight and comfortable, but requires a capable amp to shine and has some build quality compromises in this version. Its neutral-leaning tuning and strong technical performance make it a solid value when discounted, though its treble can occasionally get bright and its tonal balance isn't for everyone.

  • Pro:Detailed and spacious soundstage
  • Pro:Lightweight and comfortable fit
  • Pro:Near-neutral tuning with good technicality
  • Con:Needs a powerful amplifier to perform well
  • Con:Treble can be overly sharp at times
  • Con:Build quality and headband materials feel cheaper

Sennheiser HD 650

The Sennheiser HD 650 is a wired, open-back dynamic headphone built for serious home listening. It delivers a natural, detailed sound with a comfortable fit, though its sub-bass rolloff and bulky design limit it to stationary use rather than portable or active scenarios. Its replaceable cable and balanced connection option add to its appeal for audiophiles.

  • Pro:Excellent clarity and natural tonal balance
  • Pro:Very comfortable for long listening sessions
  • Pro:Detachable cable and balanced output support
  • Con:Noticeable sub-bass rolloff
  • Con:Not portable or suitable for active use
  • Con:High impedance requires a dedicated amplifier

Summaries are AI-condensed and paraphrased from published reviews and specs - not original hands-on testing. More on our method.

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