Audio T Verdict
The Sennheiser HD 569 occupy a useful middle ground. They are proper full-sized wired headphones with the comfort, replaceable parts and spacious presentation associated with Sennheiser's HD 500 family, but their closed-back construction makes them far easier to live with when you cannot dedicate a completely quiet room to listening.
The 38mm drivers and Sennheiser E.A.R. angled arrangement create a surprisingly open stereo image for a closed headphone, while the 23-ohm impedance means they do not demand a specialist headphone amplifier simply to get going. Two detachable cables are included too: a long 3m cable for a traditional hi-fi setup and a shorter 1.2m cable with microphone and remote for more everyday use.
If you want maximum openness and do not need isolation, the HD 599 or HD 560S make more sense. But if you need to keep more of the outside world out and more of your music in, the HD 569 remain a very practical home-listening headphone.
Passive Isolation, Not Active Noise Cancellation
The HD 569 reduce outside noise through their closed earcups and around-ear fit, but they do not contain electronic Active Noise Cancellation. There is no battery, Bluetooth connection or ANC processing.
Sennheiser HD 569 Closed-Back Headphones
The Sennheiser HD 569 are full-sized closed-back headphones designed to combine enjoyable home hi-fi listening with greater everyday practicality than an open-back design.
The 38mm dynamic drivers use Sennheiser's Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement, or E.A.R., arrangement to angle sound towards the ears. This helps create a wider and more natural stereo image while retaining the isolation and reduced sound leakage provided by a closed enclosure.
Two detachable cables are supplied. A 3m cable with full-sized 6.3mm plug is ideal for a traditional amplifier or headphone system, while a shorter 1.2m cable terminates in 3.5mm and incorporates a one-button remote and microphone.
- Closed-back around-ear headphones
- 38mm dynamic transducers
- Sennheiser E.A.R. angled driver alignment
- 10Hz to 28kHz frequency response
- 23-ohm impedance
- 115dB SPL at 1kHz / 1V RMS
- Less than 0.2% THD
- Passive acoustic isolation
- Large around-ear cups
- Soft replaceable earpads
- Two detachable cables supplied
- 3m home hi-fi cable with 6.3mm plug
- 1.2m cable with 3.5mm plug
- One-button remote
- Omnidirectional inline microphone
- HD 500-series accessory compatibility
- Optional balanced cable compatibility
- Optional HD 500 BAM boom microphone compatibility
- 300g weight
- No battery required
Closed-Back Listening
The rear of each HD 569 earcup is enclosed rather than open to the room.
This provides two practical benefits. External noise is reduced before it reaches your ears, while less of your music escapes into the surrounding room.
That makes the HD 569 particularly useful when listening:
- In a shared living room
- In a home office
- Beside somebody watching or reading something else
- In a bedroom
- From a computer
- In environments with moderate background noise
Why Choose Closed-Back Headphones?
An open-back headphone can offer a wonderfully spacious presentation, but it is not always practical.
If somebody else is sitting nearby, they may hear a surprising amount of what you are listening to. External conversation and television sound can also reach you with very little reduction.
The HD 569 give up some of that complete openness in exchange for better privacy and isolation.
Open or Closed-Back?
Open-back headphones generally make the most sense in a quiet room where spaciousness and natural imaging matter above everything else. Closed-back headphones such as the HD 569 are more practical where other people or background noise are present. Read our Audio T guide to open and closed-back headphones for a more detailed explanation.
38mm Dynamic Transducers
The HD 569 use 38mm dynamic drivers to reproduce the incoming audio signal.
Sennheiser combines these with carefully controlled earcup acoustics to deliver a full-range presentation extending from a specified 10Hz at the bottom end to 28kHz at the top.
Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement
Sennheiser's E.A.R. system angles the transducers towards the listener's ears.
Rather than firing completely perpendicular to the side of your head, the driver geometry is designed to recreate more closely the direction from which sound arrives when listening to loudspeakers positioned in front of you.
The result is intended to improve:
- Stereo image width
- Instrument placement
- Sense of depth
- Vocal positioning
- Overall spaciousness
A Spacious Closed-Back Presentation
Closed headphones can sometimes sound more enclosed simply because the driver is operating within a sealed acoustic space.
The E.A.R. arrangement helps the HD 569 retain a greater sense of space without giving up the isolation advantages that make a closed design useful in the first place.
10Hz to 28kHz Frequency Response
Sennheiser specifies a frequency response from 10Hz to 28kHz.
This gives the transducers useful extension beyond the central audible range while retaining the deep low-frequency capability needed for bass guitar, electronic music, orchestral percussion and film soundtracks.
Powerful but Controlled Bass
The closed earcup naturally gives the HD 569 a different bass presentation from an open model such as the HD 599.
Sennheiser describes the result as a powerful bass response, but the aim is not simply maximum low-frequency quantity. The HD 569 are intended to remain detailed enough for serious music listening rather than behaving like deliberately exaggerated lifestyle headphones.
23-Ohm Impedance
At only 23 ohms, the HD 569 are considerably easier to drive than high-impedance models such as the HD 600.
They can therefore work from a wide selection of headphone outputs, including:
- Integrated amplifiers
- Dedicated headphone amplifiers
- DAC/headphone amplifiers
- Computers
- Portable audio players
- Tablets and phones with suitable outputs or adapters
- AV receivers
Do They Need a Headphone Amplifier?
Not simply to achieve useful volume.
The combination of 23-ohm impedance and 115dB SPL sensitivity means the HD 569 are considerably more accommodating than many specialist hi-fi headphones.
A better headphone output can still improve overall performance, but you do not have to build a dedicated headphone system before enjoying them.
Easy to Drive Does Not Mean the Source Does Not Matter
The HD 569 can work from relatively modest headphone outputs, but source and amplifier quality still affect the result. A cleaner DAC or better headphone amplifier can improve control, clarity and dynamic headroom even with a low-impedance headphone.
115dB SPL
Sennheiser specifies a sound pressure level of 115dB at 1kHz and 1V RMS.
That relatively high sensitivity is another reason the HD 569 can work successfully with a broad range of source equipment.
Low Distortion
Total harmonic distortion is specified below 0.2% at 1kHz and 100dB.
Keeping unwanted distortion low helps preserve subtle information in voices, instruments and recording ambience rather than covering it with artefacts generated by the headphone itself.
Two Detachable Cables Included
Sennheiser supplies two different cables because home hi-fi and everyday listening often require very different lengths and connections.
This avoids forcing you to choose between a long traditional hi-fi cable and a shorter cable suitable for sitting at a desk or using a portable device.
3m Home Hi-Fi Cable
The longer cable measures approximately three metres and terminates in a full-sized straight 6.3mm stereo plug.
It is particularly suitable when listening from:
- An integrated amplifier
- A dedicated headphone amplifier
- An AV receiver
- A traditional hi-fi rack
- A listening chair positioned away from the equipment
1.2m Cable With Microphone
The second cable measures approximately 1.2 metres and terminates in a standard 3.5mm connection.
It also includes an inline one-button remote and omnidirectional microphone, making the HD 569 suitable for compatible calls as well as music listening.
One-Button Remote
The shorter cable's remote provides straightforward control with compatible equipment.
Depending on the connected device and application, it can be used for functions such as music playback and handling calls.
Inline Microphone
The 1.2m cable contains an omnidirectional microphone.
This makes the HD 569 useful for:
- Phone calls
- Video meetings
- Voice chat
- Working from home
- Compatible games systems
Optional HD 500 BAM Boom Microphone
Sennheiser now also lists the HD 569 as compatible with the optional HD 500 BAM boom-arm microphone.
The HD 500 BAM replaces the normal cable and adds a dedicated 10mm cardioid condenser microphone, inline volume adjustment and microphone mute control.
This offers a considerably more focused voice solution than the standard inline microphone if you regularly use the headphones for gaming, calls or online meetings.
Useful for Gaming
The closed earcups can help reduce distractions while the E.A.R. angled transducers provide useful stereo positioning.
Add the optional HD 500 BAM and the HD 569 become a complete wired headset without requiring a separate gaming headphone.
The passive wired connection also avoids Bluetooth audio latency.
Optional Balanced Cable
Sennheiser's current accessory catalogue lists the HD 569 as compatible with its 1.8m balanced HD 500-series cable.
This gives owners the option of connecting to a suitable headphone amplifier with a compatible balanced output.
A balanced connection does not automatically guarantee better sound; the quality and design of the amplifier remain more important than the connector alone.
Replaceable Earpads
Sennheiser continues to sell replacement earpads specifically for the HD 569.
That is useful because pads gradually compress and wear during long-term ownership, particularly on a headphone designed for frequent use.
Being able to replace them helps preserve both comfort and the intended acoustic relationship between the ear and driver.
Replaceable Cables
The detachable design also means a worn or damaged cable does not automatically mean replacing the complete headphones.
Sennheiser currently offers several compatible HD 500-series cables in different lengths and configurations.
Designed for Long Listening Sessions
The HD 569 use large around-ear cups that surround rather than press directly onto the ears.
The soft replaceable earpads and padded headband distribute pressure over a relatively large area, making them suitable for extended listening sessions.
300g Weight
The HD 569 weigh approximately 300g.
They are therefore more substantial than lighter portable designs such as the HD 400S, but remain manageable for full-sized around-ear headphones intended primarily for home listening.
HD 569 or HD 599?
HD 569
- Closed-back design
- Around-ear fit
- 38mm dynamic drivers
- E.A.R. angled driver alignment
- 23-ohm impedance
- 10Hz to 28kHz response
- Passive acoustic isolation
- Reduced sound leakage
- Two cables supplied
- Inline microphone supplied
- HD 500 BAM compatible
- 300g
HD 599
- Open-back design
- Around-ear fit
- HD 500-series architecture
- E.A.R. acoustic arrangement
- Greater interaction with the room
- Very little passive isolation
- More sound leakage
- Spacious home-listening focus
- Best suited to quiet rooms
- HD 500 BAM compatible
- Alternative rather than direct upgrade
Which Should You Choose?
Choose the HD 569 if you need a closed headphone that keeps more outside noise away and reduces the amount of music audible to somebody else in the room.
The Sennheiser HD 599 are the more natural choice if you have a quiet listening space and want the greater openness associated with an open-back design.
Neither design is automatically better. The listening environment should play a major part in the decision.
HD 569 or HD 620S?
HD 569
- Closed-back
- 38mm drivers
- 23-ohm impedance
- 10Hz to 28kHz
- 115dB SPL
- Two cables supplied
- Inline microphone supplied
- Easy to drive
- 300g
- Practical all-round home headphone
HD 620S
- Closed-back
- 42mm driver assembly
- 38mm diaphragm
- 150-ohm impedance
- 6Hz to 30kHz
- 110dB SPL
- 600-series-inspired reference tuning
- Steel-reinforced construction
- Greater emphasis on serious hi-fi listening
- Natural, spacious closed-back presentation
When Is the HD 620S Worth the Step Up?
The Sennheiser HD 620S are aimed more specifically at listeners wanting a reference-style closed headphone.
They combine aspects of Sennheiser's HD 500 and HD 600 families, using a 42mm driver assembly with 150-ohm impedance and a stronger emphasis on natural tonal accuracy and spaciousness.
The HD 569 remain the easier and more versatile everyday option, particularly if the supplied microphone cable and low impedance are useful.
Useful for Home Hi-Fi
The 3m cable makes the HD 569 unusually well suited to a conventional hi-fi setup.
You can sit comfortably away from the amplifier without relying on an extension cable, while the full-sized 6.3mm connector plugs directly into many traditional headphone outputs.
Useful for Working From Home
The shorter microphone cable gives the HD 569 a second role away from the hi-fi system.
The closed construction helps reduce surrounding distractions while the inline microphone can be used for compatible calls and meetings.
Useful for Films and Television
The combination of strong low-frequency performance, closed earcups and spacious E.A.R. presentation also works well for film soundtracks.
A wired connection means there is no Bluetooth encoding delay to cause lip-sync problems.
Useful When Other People Are Nearby
This is perhaps the strongest practical argument for the HD 569 over an open-back Sennheiser.
You can enjoy a full-sized headphone presentation without broadcasting quite so much of your music into the room or hearing every conversation around you.
No Batteries, Apps or Firmware
The HD 569 are completely passive wired headphones.
There is no battery to charge or eventually replace, no Bluetooth codec to become obsolete and no app required before you can listen.
Connect them to a suitable headphone output and they are ready to use.
Who Are the Sennheiser HD 569 For?
- Listeners wanting closed-back wired headphones
- Home hi-fi systems
- Shared living spaces
- Working from home
- Listeners who want passive isolation without ANC
- People wanting lower sound leakage than an open headphone
- Listeners wanting an easy-to-drive 23-ohm design
- Customers wanting both short and long cables supplied
- People wanting an inline microphone
- Film and television listening
- Gaming with the optional HD 500 BAM
- Listeners wanting replaceable cables and earpads
Who Are They Not For?
- Listeners wanting the widest possible open-back soundstage
- Customers wanting Bluetooth
- People wanting Active Noise Cancellation
- Listeners seeking the strongest isolation for aircraft travel
- Customers wanting a tiny folding portable headphone
- Listeners specifically looking for a 600-series reference headphone
Key Features
- Sennheiser HD 569
- Article number 506829
- Closed-back headphones
- Around-ear / over-ear fit
- Dynamic transducer principle
- 38mm transducers
- E.A.R. angled driver alignment
- 10Hz to 28kHz frequency response
- 23-ohm nominal impedance
- 115dB SPL at 1kHz / 1V RMS
- Less than 0.2% THD
- Passive acoustic isolation
- Reduced sound leakage
- Two detachable cables supplied
- 3m home cable
- 6.3mm straight plug
- 1.2m everyday cable
- 3.5mm straight plug
- One-button remote
- Omnidirectional microphone
- Replaceable earpads
- Replaceable cables
- HD 500-series accessory compatibility
- Optional 1.8m balanced cable
- Optional HD 500 BAM compatibility
- 300g weight
- No Bluetooth
- No battery
- No Active Noise Cancellation
- No app required
- 24-month manufacturer's warranty
Frequently Asked Questions
Are the Sennheiser HD 569 still current?
Yes. The HD 569 remain part of Sennheiser's current wired and HD Series headphone ranges.
Are the HD 569 open or closed-back?
Closed-back.
Do the HD 569 block outside noise?
The closed earcups provide useful passive acoustic isolation, although they do not contain electronic Active Noise Cancellation.
Do they have Active Noise Cancellation?
No.
Do they have Bluetooth?
No. The HD 569 are completely wired headphones.
Do they need charging?
No. There is no battery.
Are they over-ear?
Yes. The large earcups surround the ears rather than resting directly on them.
What size drivers do the HD 569 use?
Sennheiser specifies 38mm dynamic transducers.
What is E.A.R.?
E.A.R. stands for Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement. Sennheiser angles the transducers towards the ears to help create a more natural and spacious stereo presentation.
What is the frequency response?
10Hz to 28kHz.
What impedance are the HD 569?
23 ohms.
How sensitive are they?
Sennheiser specifies 115dB SPL at 1kHz and 1V RMS.
What is the total harmonic distortion?
Less than 0.2% at 1kHz and 100dB.
Do I need a headphone amplifier?
Not necessarily. The 23-ohm impedance makes the HD 569 relatively easy to drive, although the quality of the headphone output can still affect the final sound.
Can I use them with an integrated amplifier?
Yes. The supplied 3m cable terminates in a full-sized 6.3mm plug specifically suited to traditional hi-fi headphone outputs.
Can I use them with a phone?
Yes, provided the phone has a compatible 3.5mm headphone output or a suitable headphone adapter.
Do they come with two cables?
Yes. A 3m cable with 6.3mm plug and a 1.2m cable with 3.5mm plug, one-button remote and microphone are supplied.
Is the cable detachable?
Yes. Both supplied cables are detachable.
Does the shorter cable have a microphone?
Yes. It contains an omnidirectional inline microphone and one-button remote.
Can I use the HD 569 for calls?
Yes, with a compatible device using the supplied microphone cable.
Can I add a better boom microphone?
Yes. Sennheiser lists the HD 569 as compatible with the optional HD 500 BAM boom microphone.
Are they good for gaming?
They can be. The closed design reduces surrounding distractions, the wired connection avoids Bluetooth latency and the optional HD 500 BAM adds a dedicated boom microphone.
Can I use a balanced cable?
Sennheiser currently lists the HD 569 as compatible with its optional 1.8m balanced HD 500-series cable.
Can the earpads be replaced?
Yes. Sennheiser continues to offer replacement HD 569 earpads.
Can I replace the cables?
Yes. Several compatible HD 500-series replacement cables are currently available.
How much do the HD 569 weigh?
Approximately 300g.
Are the HD 569 suitable for commuting?
The closed design provides more isolation than an open-back headphone, but they are full-sized home-oriented headphones and do not provide electronic ANC.
What is the difference between HD 569 and HD 599?
The key difference is acoustic design. The HD 569 are closed-back and provide better isolation with less sound leakage. The HD 599 are open-back and are better suited to quiet rooms where a more open presentation is the priority.
What is the difference between HD 569 and HD 620S?
Both are closed-back, but the HD 620S are a newer 150-ohm model with a 42mm driver assembly and greater emphasis on reference-style hi-fi performance. The HD 569 are easier to drive and include both home and microphone cables as standard.
How long is the manufacturer's warranty?
The HD 569 currently fall within Sennheiser's 24-month consumer warranty category, subject to Sennheiser's applicable warranty conditions and proof of purchase.
What comes in the box?
The HD 569 headphones, a 1.2m cable with one-button remote and 3.5mm plug, and a 3m cable with 6.3mm plug.
Related Sennheiser Products and Audio T Guides
Why Buy the Sennheiser HD 569 From Audio T?
The main decision with a headphone such as the HD 569 is not simply whether the specification looks good. The listening environment, source equipment, amount of isolation required and whether you would be better served by an open or closed-back model all matter.
Audio T can help you compare the HD 569 with alternatives such as the HD 599 and HD 620S, check compatibility with your amplifier, computer or portable equipment and advise on replacement cables, earpads and the optional HD 500 BAM microphone.
- Friendly headphone advice
- Open and closed-back comparisons
- HD 500-series guidance
- HD 569 and HD 599 comparisons
- HD 569 and HD 620S comparisons
- Headphone amplifier advice
- Computer and portable-device compatibility
- Replacement cable guidance
- Replacement earpad advice
- HD 500 BAM compatibility guidance
- Headphone demonstrations where available
- Ongoing after-sales support
Contact your local Audio T store if you would like to arrange a demonstration or discuss whether the Sennheiser HD 569 are the right headphones for the way you listen.