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Nectar Hive vs Sennheiser HD 560s: which should you buy?

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

Our pick: Nectar Hive - Outstanding overall at around $197.

Score breakdown

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

Nectar Hive
Sound9.0
Value7.0
Sennheiser HD 560s
Sound8.5
Value8.0

Specifications

Specification comparison of Nectar Hive vs Sennheiser HD 560s
SpecNectar HiveSennheiser HD 560s
TypeOver-EarOver-Ear
Price (USD)$197$200
HearWiki score85 / 100 · Outstanding82 / 100 · Great
Released20222020
Audio
DriverElectrostaticdynamic
Driver size-40 mm
Drivers per side-2
Frequency response20Hz-7kHz6Hz-38kHz
Sound signatureBright neutral-
Impedance-120 Ω
Sensitivity-99 dB/mW
Sensitivity (dB/Vrms)-110
Wireless
Multipoint pairing-No
Features
Active noise cancelling-No
Controls-buttons
Design
Weight370 g240 g
Detachable cable-Yes
USB-C-No

What reviewers said

Nectar Hive

The Nectar Hive is a wired electrostatic over-ear headphone priced around $600, weighing just 370 grams. It delivers a bright neutral sound signature with a frequency response spanning 20Hz to 7kHz, offering a detailed and airy presentation that leans toward analytical clarity. This model earns high marks for its tonal balance and technical performance, making it a strong contender in its price bracket for listeners who prefer a crisp, revealing sound.

  • Pro:Excellent tonal accuracy and neutrality
  • Pro:Impressive technical detail retrieval
  • Pro:Featherweight design for comfort
  • Con:Bright tilt may be fatiguing for some
  • Con:Limited bass impact due to electrostatic nature
  • Con:Requires dedicated amplifier for proper use

Sennheiser HD 560s

The Sennheiser HD 560S are wired, open-back over-ear headphones that deliver a precise and neutral sound profile, making them a strong pick for critical listening. They offer a very comfortable fit, a wide soundstage, and clear detail retrieval, though their analytical nature may not suit those seeking a more lively or bass-heavy presentation. With a 120-ohm impedance, they are easy to drive from most devices without needing a separate amp, and their detachable cable adds practical convenience.

  • Pro:Excellent clarity and detail
  • Pro:Very comfortable for long sessions
  • Pro:Wide, spacious soundstage
  • Con:Sound can feel dry or unengaging
  • Con:Open-back design leaks sound
  • Con:No built-in microphone

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

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