How We Evaluated & Editorial Methodology
How we evaluated: Products were compared using manufacturer specifications, published measurements, retailer listings, long-term community feedback, and Canadian buying factors such as availability, shipping, warranty, and import risk.
Editorial methodology: This is a research-based buying guide. SoundGain does not claim hands-on testing of every product listed, and readers should confirm final specifications, pricing, stock, and retailer terms before purchasing.
Prices last checked: June 09, 2026 at 9:18 PM MDT. Prices, coupons, availability, and terms may change at any time. Confirm with the retailer before purchasing.
The Airy Charm of Open-Backs
Open-back headphones allow soundwaves to pass through the earcups freely. This creates a natural, wide, three-dimensional acoustic soundstage that mimics actual desktop speakers, though they leak sound. We compare the retro Koss Porta Pro, the budget-legend Philips SHP9500, and the professional-grade Sennheiser HD 560S.
At a Glance: Specifications
| Model | Price Note | Driver Type | Impedance | Soundstage width |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Koss Porta Pro | Varies by retailer | Dynamic Open-Back | 60Ω | Intimate, warm, punchy |
| Philips SHP9500 | Varies by retailer | 50mm Neodymium | 32Ω | Wide, airy, mid-forward |
| Sennheiser HD 560S | Varies by retailer | Angled Open-Back | 120Ω | Accurate, clinical, deep |
Deeper Buying Notes
Open-back is about space, not isolation
Open-back headphones can sound wider and more natural because air moves through the earcups, but they leak sound and block very little outside noise. They are best for quiet rooms, desktop listening, gaming at home, and long sessions where comfort matters. They are poor choices for transit, offices with other people nearby, or any setting where privacy matters.
Comfort differences matter more than specs
Koss Porta Pro is light and fun, but it sits on-ear and can feel less stable. Philips SHP9500 is roomy and easy to wear, though its loose clamp will not suit everyone. Sennheiser HD 560S is more serious and resolving, but it also asks for a cleaner source and may reveal harsh recordings. None of these decisions should be made by frequency charts alone.
Practical recommendation
Choose Porta Pro for low-cost musical fun. Choose SHP9500 if you want easy comfort and a large stage on a budget. Choose HD 560S if you want a more analytical upgrade for desktop listening. Check return policy carefully because head shape and clamp comfort are hard to predict from online reviews.
Quick Verdict
The Porta Pro is the cheapest fun option, the SHP9500 is the easiest comfort recommendation, and the HD 560S is the more serious listening tool. For most buyers, the SHP9500 is the friendly middle ground, while the HD 560S makes more sense if you already know you prefer neutral, detailed headphones.
Avoid open-back headphones if you share the room, record audio, or need isolation. They leak both ways: people can hear your music, and you can hear the room around you.