Sennheiser's best gaming headset (PC38X) versus their best critical listening headphones (HD560S). Which is better for FPS gaming? ---------- Donations: www.paypal.com...
Hi there! Bro great review, recently I discovered your channel and the reviews are very good! Also sorry for my english, it is not my native language So, you have plans to make a H6Pro vs HD 560s comparative video? The people often compare these two heaphones but I dont know wich choose
560S uses Sennheisers latest dynamic drivers and they really did a great job with them. I used a 38X for a little over a year and started looking for something new after the volume control started to give me issues with not playing equal volume in both speakers. It was a good headset but I'm glad i got a hel2e dac/amp and 560s. 560S is easily better in every single way except the convenience of the 38x being an AIO headset.
You telling me the PC 38X still have that issue with Volume Control that PC 370 and Game One had, 10 years later.... Yeah just get the DT 900 Pro X then.
Thank you for sharing! I have a PC38x for over a year now and I wasn't really satisfied with them until I got a proper DAC/amp (FiioK7). They're really good for gaming compared to my Hifiman 400se, but the 400se is way better for music, though not nearly as comfortable. I'm looking to sell both and get ONE headphone for all my needs. K702 is half the price of a 560s in my country, but I've been looking the 560s for a while now... people say the soundstage of the 702 is amazing, but pretty much doesn't have any bass. Now the 560s is said to be pretty much a perfect all-rounder. After my experience with both 38x and Hifiman, I feel like my preference is for neutral sound, specially for games.
yeah when i crank the volume dial at max it farts and lose right ear volume a bit(where the dial is) and have to keep touching it a bit to make it come back
I own both. Hands down, the 560S is significantly superior in imaging accuracy. Meanwhile, the 38x is very good in terms of imaging, but no where as good as the 560S. If you're into competitive FPS, the 560S is like gaming with a wall hack. It's that good. Unfortunately, you'll possibly need to spend an additional amount for a decent amp/dac as well as a mod mic for chat purpose. All in all, the pc38x is a phenomenal "gaming" headset out of the box. But, if you're looking for that extra edge in gaming, the 560S is leaps and bounds over the pc38x.
Just because one says "gaming headset" doesn't mean the headphone is tuned for "gaming" lol it's more for marketing and the convenience of the headphone coming with a mic 🤷. However I just sent back my pair of pc38xs because I was a bit disappointed on the music side of things. Imo for fps games, it gets the job done pretty well. but if you want to enjoy music with bass (or enjoy a boomy experience in your games)..you will definitely be missing out with these headphones.
560 gives you more for gaming . It’s considered to be better by pro fps players and you need to spend more time with the 560 and add a Modmic on it . .
I feel like you would have given an even higher rating to the 560s if you used them longer. And I think it highly depends on the games you primarily play. Even within competitive shooters, lots of them handle audio cues and footsteps differently in the audio mix. I found a few headphones exceptional for most Battlefield games and Hunt Showdown while they were barely sub par at Halo and CoD.
He has his Senn 7.1 surround on the desk and that makes the 560s even better for footsteps and location. I'm surprised he didn't test it tbh because that device does a great job.
@@DKTD23 It’s an amazing amp/dac with one flaw - low volume. I mostly stick to console gaming, with devices suited for that. PS is what I love. I’m interested how these headsets/headphones amps/dacs perform on the PlayStation more than PC.
I've got both, for 99% of users, the PC38X is the better choice. Default sound on the HD560S is fatiguing and requires and EQ unless you are solely using it for referencing or gaming.
have a Sennheiser PC38X. I have it hooked up to a UGREEN USB-C to 3,5mm jack. It sounds fine, but it doesn't get very loud. I want to add more volume to my headphones and use Dolby Atmos. I'd imagine that this will be more than adequate to give me more volume given the very low impediance (32 ohms) of my PC38X.
I have both, and agree with you. After months going back and forth, my conclusion is: PC38X is better for listen to music than for playing... it was over hyped by many ""reviewers". It works for playing don't get me wrong, it has nice soundstage regular stereo imaging, its problem its the layering and lack of resolution. HD560S has better resolution, a bit smaller soundstage but way better stereo imaging, and its layering is more efficent than PC38x. With layering I meant you can distinguish different sound cues in a crowed sound scenario, so footsteps are easier highlighted by HD560S due its upper mid and treble performance. Kind of disappointed with PC38X, because it was hyped as the best headset on its price range. IMO ATH-ADG1X beats it, easily that headphone is like a more midrange forward DT880 with a very good microphone, but it needs an amp to sound decent.
@@District.24the adg1x is way more treble heavy. Has amazing front to back imaging . The soundstage is almost rectangle deeper front to back than left to right. They are honestly amazing.
Oooh... this is just the comparison I needed to see. I have ordered a HD560S at 50% off but debating on whether to keep them or sell for profit and get the PC38X instead.
Good video man! Saw that you ran both headsets without amp, have you tried with? AFAIK the 560S are 120 ohm and would prob benefit from an amp. Reason I'm asking is because I'm deliberating between these two headsets myself, primarily for gaming. Problem is that the PC38X is hard to come by in Europe/Sweden whereas the 560 is readily available and so the 560 would be an easier buy.
The PC38X is only 28 ohms and wouldn't benefit at all from an amp. I did try it though on my GSX 1000 dac/amp on my PC. The 560S doesn't require an amp at 120 ohms, but wouldn't hurt at all to use one with it. The 560S and the PC38X have a vary similar sound signature, and I suspect that a decent amp on the 560S will really bring out the quality of the headphones. My suggestion for that would be the Drop THX AAA One or 789 amp. Any quality DAC will do. I guess it comes down to whether you need a mic or not.
@@District.24 thats not actually how it works. specs are one thing and reality is another. buy a dedicated dac and amp then test things. doesnt matter if is 10ohms or 300ohm. quality is quality. also, theres no such thing as "tuned" for gaming. i'll leave a like but you have alot to learn.
@@District.24 btw i have the 560s. they 100% require an amp and dac or an all in one but not the gsx1000 (pretty poor in general, its more marketing at this point).
Imaging is very important for gaming. So if 560s has better imaging, it's the better headphone for gaming. Then comes sound stage. Which is wider? That is also important. The 560s has a higher treble peak which would also work in gaming for hearing certain things easier. I also doubt the PC38x was "tuned" for gaming, that is marketing BS. I own them. And just bought 560s for $199 Ca dollars. I am going to try them out. I find that the PC38x at times lack rear imaging. Might be the same with 560s, I guess I will find out. If the 560s provide more overall "clarity" and extend a little more in upper range and remain flatter that can be very useful in gaming too.
Yes. There are two sets of pads that come with the PC38X. The default set is not velour, and is not as stiff as the velour pads, however, the headset loses some bass on that set of pads. So far, the nicest sound signature comes with the velour pads.
I don't know shit about headhones. I bought both to see which one was worth keeping. Just got the pc38x a few hours ago. I prefer the 560s instantly. Its louder, clearer, isn't obtrusive with an annoying ass mic. I'm not even connected to an amp. Damn I was hoping I could save 70 bucks if I kept the pc38x. I wished the 560s came with all these accessories as this one did. That 10ft cable is too damn long.
Thanks for this informative video. Do you just plug-in your HD560S and PC38X in the Dualsense 3.5mm jack or are you using a Dac/Amp? I'm planning to use mine without Dac/Amp when gaming on PS5.
I currently have the Game One, im looking for a same good replacement with a bit more bass (open back), what's your recommendation for my case? 560s, pc38x, H6pro or DT900X pro?
More bass. You would probably prefer an Astro A40 or A50. I would suggest you look at the H6Pro (open-back), but I don't think it has more bass. You might disagree, because sound is subjective. Give it a try.
Yes, it can, but I wouldn't recommend it. GSX 1000 produces a low volume output. I would choose the Schiit Hel 2 over the GSX 1000 when using the 560s. I know this becuase I own the Schiit Hel 2, the GSX 1000 and the Astro Mixamp Pro.
@@District.24the Mayflower MK2 is another very good option. It needs the wall plug to give it enough power. Currently they sell the plug on the side, so it’s USB powered otherwise.
You lost me when you said jack Daniels was smooth. I would use crown royal special reserve for that comparison. It's the only hard liquor I ever had that didn't bite me in my entire life.
560s is such a boring headphone, i mean to each his own but gosh is it boring. I prefer the 6xx for music and the dt 770 pro for gaming/immersion (not competitive, just RPG an open world)
i don't know if you know this but HD560S need an amp, to unlock it's full potential this not a headphone suited for ps4, you need an amp and with that it's far better the pc38x
Help! I plug mine into xbox controller but can barely here anything. Volume on max. When I plug into my phone It works fine. Any ideas? Xbox series x btw
If you're talking about 560s you need amp for that.. Xbox controller doesn't provide enough Ohms top power the headphones drivers, that's why they're quiet.
Turns out the issue wasn't with the headphones. The controller itself has a setting you have to review and turn on headphones capability. 🤦♂️Microsoft made something as simple as plugging in a gaming headset complicated.
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Hi there! Bro great review, recently I discovered your channel and the reviews are very good! Also sorry for my english, it is not my native language
So, you have plans to make a H6Pro vs HD 560s comparative video? The people often compare these two heaphones but I dont know wich choose
@@jackgreen05 Yes. I already made the video,. I just haven't released it yet.
@@District.24 all right, thank you!
Do you also have the pc37X? Do you think the 37x and 38x are very similar if you do?
560S uses Sennheisers latest dynamic drivers and they really did a great job with them. I used a 38X for a little over a year and started looking for something new after the volume control started to give me issues with not playing equal volume in both speakers. It was a good headset but I'm glad i got a hel2e dac/amp and 560s. 560S is easily better in every single way except the convenience of the 38x being an AIO headset.
Thanks for sharing.
What about the epos h6 pro open? Are they better than the pc38x?
You telling me the PC 38X still have that issue with Volume Control that PC 370 and Game One had, 10 years later....
Yeah just get the DT 900 Pro X then.
Thank you for sharing! I have a PC38x for over a year now and I wasn't really satisfied with them until I got a proper DAC/amp (FiioK7). They're really good for gaming compared to my Hifiman 400se, but the 400se is way better for music, though not nearly as comfortable. I'm looking to sell both and get ONE headphone for all my needs. K702 is half the price of a 560s in my country, but I've been looking the 560s for a while now... people say the soundstage of the 702 is amazing, but pretty much doesn't have any bass. Now the 560s is said to be pretty much a perfect all-rounder. After my experience with both 38x and Hifiman, I feel like my preference is for neutral sound, specially for games.
yeah when i crank the volume dial at max it farts and lose right ear volume a bit(where the dial is) and have to keep touching it a bit to make it come back
I appreciated this review… the exact two headsets and the exact useage I wanted to compare
Glad I could be of help.
There's a big important difference. For the HD650S you will want a good amp.
exactly what I was looking for! thank's for the review
I own both. Hands down, the 560S is significantly superior in imaging accuracy. Meanwhile, the 38x is very good in terms of imaging, but no where as good as the 560S. If you're into competitive FPS, the 560S is like gaming with a wall hack. It's that good. Unfortunately, you'll possibly need to spend an additional amount for a decent amp/dac as well as a mod mic for chat purpose.
All in all, the pc38x is a phenomenal "gaming" headset out of the box. But, if you're looking for that extra edge in gaming, the 560S is leaps and bounds over the pc38x.
Thanks for sharing.
What is better for cs go and cs 1.6 dt900 pro x or 560s?
@@tattoofoodrock Если dt900 как и все остальные BD с V образной АЧХ, то они точно не подходят для игр.
@@deG0yan ну вот многие хвалят 900 в связке с amp/dac
@@tattoofoodrock Я ни в коем случае не утверждаю, т.к. ЕСЛИ у них не V образная АЧХ, т.е. провала по средним нет, то шаги ты будешь слышать четко.
Nice, real world review. Nice job mate!
Glad you liked it
Thank you very much for this exact comparison!
My pleasure!
The 560s is so neutral I love it! I have a pair of Black Shark V2 Pros, and the bass was so bad it made me scared to shoot my gun.
The 560s is a nice headphones. For sure.
Hey how do u think u could compare them? V2 pros are what I have rn n I'm thinking of getting the 560s soon
Just because one says "gaming headset" doesn't mean the headphone is tuned for "gaming" lol it's more for marketing and the convenience of the headphone coming with a mic 🤷. However I just sent back my pair of pc38xs because I was a bit disappointed on the music side of things. Imo for fps games, it gets the job done pretty well. but if you want to enjoy music with bass (or enjoy a boomy experience in your games)..you will definitely be missing out with these headphones.
Thanks for sharing.
This is actually incorrect. All of these hifi brands that make gaming headsets 100% tune them for gaming
if you had a bit more production quality and kept up this kind of content. You are going to be big
Thanks! Just picked up my pc38x for forza sim racing
My pleasure. :)
Thanks man, very useful video for me
My pleasure. Stay tuned for the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro versus the PC38X from Sennheiser + Drop.
560 gives you more for gaming . It’s considered to be better by pro fps players and you need to spend more time with the 560 and add a Modmic on it . .
Thanks for sharing.
I feel like you would have given an even higher rating to the 560s if you used them longer. And I think it highly depends on the games you primarily play. Even within competitive shooters, lots of them handle audio cues and footsteps differently in the audio mix. I found a few headphones exceptional for most Battlefield games and Hunt Showdown while they were barely sub par at Halo and CoD.
Thanks for sharing.
He has his Senn 7.1 surround on the desk and that makes the 560s even better for footsteps and location. I'm surprised he didn't test it tbh because that device does a great job.
@@DKTD23 I've had that before snd for me it depended on the game. Sometimes it was a striking improvement and others it almost made worse.
@@DKTD23 It’s an amazing amp/dac with one flaw - low volume. I mostly stick to console gaming, with devices suited for that. PS is what I love. I’m interested how these headsets/headphones amps/dacs perform on the PlayStation more than PC.
I've got both, for 99% of users, the PC38X is the better choice. Default sound on the HD560S is fatiguing and requires and EQ unless you are solely using it for referencing or gaming.
:)
have a Sennheiser PC38X. I have it hooked up to a UGREEN USB-C to 3,5mm jack. It sounds fine, but it doesn't get very loud. I want to add more volume to my headphones and use Dolby Atmos. I'd imagine that this will be more than adequate to give me more volume given the very low impediance (32 ohms) of my PC38X.
If your motherboard amp is not giving you the volume levels you desire, try an external amp.
I have both, and agree with you.
After months going back and forth, my conclusion is: PC38X is better for listen to music than for playing... it was over hyped by many ""reviewers". It works for playing don't get me wrong, it has nice soundstage regular stereo imaging, its problem its the layering and lack of resolution. HD560S has better resolution, a bit smaller soundstage but way better stereo imaging, and its layering is more efficent than PC38x. With layering I meant you can distinguish different sound cues in a crowed sound scenario, so footsteps are easier highlighted by HD560S due its upper mid and treble performance.
Kind of disappointed with PC38X, because it was hyped as the best headset on its price range. IMO ATH-ADG1X beats it, easily that headphone is like a more midrange forward DT880 with a very good microphone, but it needs an amp to sound decent.
I’ve never used the ATH-ADG1X, but I have used the ATH-G1, and I liked them a lot.
@@District.24the adg1x is way more treble heavy. Has amazing front to back imaging . The soundstage is almost rectangle deeper front to back than left to right. They are honestly amazing.
Oooh... this is just the comparison I needed to see. I have ordered a HD560S at 50% off but debating on whether to keep them or sell for profit and get the PC38X instead.
Glad I could help.
50 percent??? where???
@@idiotbrownie1525 UK. See ‘HUKD’ if it the offer comes up again over Xmas/NY
@@idiotbrownie1525 UK deal for Students.
@@idiotbrownie1525 amazon refurbished
Good video, ignore the competitive advantage which one sounds more exciting and immersive in Bf5?
That would have to be the PC38X.
Good video man!
Saw that you ran both headsets without amp, have you tried with? AFAIK the 560S are 120 ohm and would prob benefit from an amp. Reason I'm asking is because I'm deliberating between these two headsets myself, primarily for gaming. Problem is that the PC38X is hard to come by in Europe/Sweden whereas the 560 is readily available and so the 560 would be an easier buy.
The PC38X is only 28 ohms and wouldn't benefit at all from an amp. I did try it though on my GSX 1000 dac/amp on my PC. The 560S doesn't require an amp at 120 ohms, but wouldn't hurt at all to use one with it. The 560S and the PC38X have a vary similar sound signature, and I suspect that a decent amp on the 560S will really bring out the quality of the headphones. My suggestion for that would be the Drop THX AAA One or 789 amp. Any quality DAC will do. I guess it comes down to whether you need a mic or not.
@@District.24 thats not actually how it works. specs are one thing and reality is another. buy a dedicated dac and amp then test things. doesnt matter if is 10ohms or 300ohm. quality is quality. also, theres no such thing as "tuned" for gaming. i'll leave a like but you have alot to learn.
@@District.24 btw i have the 560s. they 100% require an amp and dac or an all in one but not the gsx1000 (pretty poor in general, its more marketing at this point).
i have a ifi zen dac and a topping a30.
@@FlowState194 hmm, a lower bass and brighter highs are actually beneficial to fps games. Easier to hear footsteps and gunshots.
Imaging is very important for gaming. So if 560s has better imaging, it's the better headphone for gaming. Then comes sound stage. Which is wider? That is also important.
The 560s has a higher treble peak which would also work in gaming for hearing certain things easier.
I also doubt the PC38x was "tuned" for gaming, that is marketing BS. I own them. And just bought 560s for $199 Ca dollars. I am going to try them out.
I find that the PC38x at times lack rear imaging. Might be the same with 560s, I guess I will find out. If the 560s provide more overall "clarity" and extend a little more in upper range and remain flatter that can be very useful in gaming too.
Thanks for sharing.
Any update you can give?
What did you find of the 560s?
I noticed people are very split on this topic.
Would be interesting to test why exactly.
Sound is subjective. People are always going to be split on topics.
Aren't there other pads that come along the PC38x? Are those comfortable?
Is it me or the PC38x look more flimsy?
Yes. There are two sets of pads that come with the PC38X. The default set is not velour, and is not as stiff as the velour pads, however, the headset loses some bass on that set of pads. So far, the nicest sound signature comes with the velour pads.
i would like to see a review from you about Sennheiser HD 599. How are they compare to 560S and PC38X in fps gaming?
Ahhh...the past verses the present. Consider it done. Look out for that video next week.
1. 560s, 2. PC38X, 3. HD 599.
I don't know shit about headhones.
I bought both to see which one was worth keeping. Just got the pc38x a few hours ago. I prefer the 560s instantly. Its louder, clearer, isn't obtrusive with an annoying ass mic. I'm not even connected to an amp.
Damn I was hoping I could save 70 bucks if I kept the pc38x. I wished the 560s came with all these accessories as this one did. That 10ft cable is too damn long.
Thanks for sharing.
I was looking to get a 560s as a beater headphone. I missed out on the 140usd sale 🤦♀
Then both you and Michael J. Fox have crappy luck.
I found in México only HD 560s, drop don't send My country ,may be later can Buy the PC 38x, like
Try the H6Pro from EPOS. It comes in closed and open-back. It's as good as the PC38X, but with better comfort and design. Visit eposaudio.com.
Thanks for this informative video. Do you just plug-in your HD560S and PC38X in the Dualsense 3.5mm jack or are you using a Dac/Amp? I'm planning to use mine without Dac/Amp when gaming on PS5.
The PC38X can plug directly into the controller, but the HD 560S is 120 ohms requiring an amp. You need an amp that supports UAC1.
@@District.24 Can you please recommend an AMP for PS5? Does the Sound Blaster G3 works on PS5?
@@District.24 what’s a good budget amp or if I gotta spend the $$
Schiit Fulla 4 or Hel 2.
Schiit Fulla 4
for playing cs2 only what should i buy?
H6PRO or H3, both by EPOS
You need a amp with the 560S to appreciate its true potential lol
Thanks for sharing.
Wait.. so you're saying that the imaging is better on the 560s?? Like pinpointing where enemies are?
Yes.
@@District.24 interesting because I can get those really cheap through work. Maybe I should get those instead?
They’re not meant for gaming, but people use them for FPS, because they have excellent imaging. You’ll need an amp, because they’re 120 ohms.
@@District.24 So I ended up buying them and I'm powering them with a Schiit HEL. You were right! Imaging is great! Thanks again!
My pleasure.
I currently have the Game One, im looking for a same good replacement with a bit more bass (open back), what's your recommendation for my case? 560s, pc38x, H6pro or DT900X pro?
More bass. You would probably prefer an Astro A40 or A50. I would suggest you look at the H6Pro (open-back), but I don't think it has more bass. You might disagree, because sound is subjective. Give it a try.
Tygr300 r is a good candidate for best gaming headphones.
7:34 i would say an amp is needed for 560s cuz theyr 120 ohm
My point is that you don’t require an amp for gaming. It works just fine for gaming, but it’s best performance is with an amp.
I only play Fortnite on pc, what headset do you recommend in 2024?
EPOS H3 or Corsair HS80 RGB Premium.
@@District.24 Thanks for the suggestions. I actually ordered the EPOS H6Pro earlier today. Hopefully, it’s a good choice.
Would I need to buy an amp for the h560s, Im on xbox. I’m not sure if the controller is able to drive the headphones
It definitely would benefit from an amp.
can the 560S be driven by the GSX 1000 DAC/Amp? Thanks in advance
ofc sir. a simple apple dongle (10 bucks) or meizu hifi (25 bucks) can drive the 560s they are really easy to drive.
Yes, it can, but I wouldn't recommend it. GSX 1000 produces a low volume output. I would choose the Schiit Hel 2 over the GSX 1000 when using the 560s. I know this becuase I own the Schiit Hel 2, the GSX 1000 and the Astro Mixamp Pro.
@@District.24 thank you so much
@@District.24the Mayflower MK2 is another very good option. It needs the wall plug to give it enough power. Currently they sell the plug on the side, so it’s USB powered otherwise.
What Dekoni earpads did you get?
Midnight.
So I play story games on my PS5 and listen to music which one is the best for me?
PC38X.
@@District.24
Alright, thanks just ordered these
You lost me when you said jack Daniels was smooth. I would use crown royal special reserve for that comparison. It's the only hard liquor I ever had that didn't bite me in my entire life.
:)
Hi what do you think is better for music alone
HD560S.
How does it perform against bose QC 35 ii
I personally wouldn’t know.
What's a good amp dac for the 38x?
Depends on what you plan to use the headset for.
@@District.24 how about mainly for gaming?
Schiit Hel 2 on console and PC.
@@District.24 thank you so much sir
hey, i recently bought epos pc38x, and everytime i stretch the headband it always make some noise/creaking sound. Is it suppose to happen?
It’s not supposed to make any abnormal noise.
@@District.24 i thought its because the plastic build itself
A certain amount of creaking will happen, because it’s a hard plastic, but nothing abnormal. You’ll have to determine if the sound is abnormal.
@@District.24 i dont rly understand what abnormal noises mean 😅
What is the difference between the two in music.
The H6PRO has a more analytical sound signature. The PC38X has a bright sound signature.
@@District.24 can u simplify lol
The H6PRO sound signature sounds more natural, where the PC8X alters the sound by making it higher (brighter) that it should be.
Pc38x vs pc37x. I cannot find a video on this anywhere.
PC38X wins. The PC37X is very bright compared. Most agree that the PC38X is an improvement.
Which would be better for console
PC38X.
@@District.24 tha ks
@@District.24 what if you have the Astro mixamp? I know that thing will power all sorts of headsets; not just astro a-40s.
You forgot to mention a very important factor. You will downgrade the HD560S if you use them without an amp.
An amps entire purpose is to amplify the sound. I’ve used the 560S with an amp. There was no degradation.
560s is such a boring headphone, i mean to each his own but gosh is it boring. I prefer the 6xx for music and the dt 770 pro for gaming/immersion (not competitive, just RPG an open world)
For listening to music I found it to be more boring than using it for gaming. Funny, eh?
i don't know if you know this but HD560S need an amp, to unlock it's full potential this not a headphone suited for ps4, you need an amp and with that it's far better the pc38x
Thanks for sharing.
Help! I plug mine into xbox controller but can barely here anything. Volume on max. When I plug into my phone It works fine. Any ideas? Xbox series x btw
I'm sorry, but I can't be of any help to you as I don't own any model of Xbox.
If you're talking about 560s you need amp for that.. Xbox controller doesn't provide enough Ohms top power the headphones drivers, that's why they're quiet.
Turns out the issue wasn't with the headphones. The controller itself has a setting you have to review and turn on headphones capability. 🤦♂️Microsoft made something as simple as plugging in a gaming headset complicated.