JBL Live 660NC vs Sennheiser HD 560S
The Verdict
The JBL Live 660NC and Sennheiser HD 560S serve fundamentally different purposes. JBL targets mobile listeners with 40-hour battery life, active noise cancelling, and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity across 40mm drivers. The 260g weight sits comfortably for extended wear, and the 10-minute quick charge delivering 4 hours of playback adds practical value for on-the-go users. Sennheiser offers a wired reference monitor experience with an open-back design, 38mm dynamic drivers, and 120-ohm impedance requiring decent amplification to shine. The HD 560S weighs 10 grams less and excels at neutral sound reproduction with a 6Hz-38kHz frequency response, making it ideal for critical listening, mixing, or desktop use. Choose the JBL Live 660NC if you prioritize wireless freedom, active noise cancellation, and extended battery life for commuting or travel. Select the Sennheiser HD 560S if you want reference-grade audio fidelity for stationary listening and have access to proper amplification. These aren't direct competitors; they're tools for different workflows.
Who Should Buy
Buy the JBL Live 660NC if…
- →40-hour battery with ANC is exceptional at $149
- →JBL's signature fun sound profile is engaging for pop and rock
- →Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
Buy the Sennheiser HD 560S if…
- →Audiophile-grade clarity and neutral sound at an accessible price
- →120-ohm impedance works with most phones and laptops without an amp
- →Incredibly wide soundstage for gaming, mixing, and critical listening
Category Scores
Pros & Cons
JBL Live 660NC
Pros
- 40-hour battery with ANC is exceptional at $149
- JBL's signature fun sound profile is engaging for pop and rock
- Multipoint Bluetooth connects two devices simultaneously
- Built-in voice assistant support for hands-free control
- Comfortable lightweight fit for extended wear
Cons
- ANC is decent but noticeably behind Sony and Bose
- No LDAC or aptX codecs — limited to AAC
- Bluetooth 5.0 is a generation behind newer models
- Plastic build doesn't feel premium
Sennheiser HD 560S
Pros
- Audiophile-grade clarity and neutral sound at an accessible price
- 120-ohm impedance works with most phones and laptops without an amp
- Incredibly wide soundstage for gaming, mixing, and critical listening
- Lightweight and comfortable for marathon listening sessions
- Excellent value as an entry into open-back audiophile headphones
Cons
- Open-back design leaks sound heavily — no isolation
- Wired only — no wireless option
- Bass can sound lean for casual listeners who prefer warmth
- Plastic build feels less premium than metal-bodied competitors
Full Specifications
| Spec | JBL Live 660NC | Sennheiser HD 560S |
|---|---|---|
| Active Noise Cancelling | ||
| Type | over-ear | over-ear |
| Weight | 260 g | 240 g |
| Battery | ||
| Battery life | 40 hrs (ANC on), 50 hrs (ANC off) | N/A (wired) |
| Charging | USB-C, 10-min quick charge for 4 hrs | N/A |
| Drivers | 40 mm | 38mm dynamic transducer, 120 ohm impedance |
| Features | Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Ambient Aware and TalkThru modes, JBL Signature Sound, Multipoint Bluetooth connection, Google Assistant and Alexa built-in, Speed Charge support | Open-back reference design, 120-ohm impedance — can be driven by most sources, Detachable cable, Velour ear pads for comfort, Wide frequency response (6 Hz – 38,000 Hz) |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wired option | ||
| Codecs | AAC, SBC | |
| Bluetooth | 5.0 | None (wired only) |
| Multipoint | ||
| Water Resistance | None | None |
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This comparison is based on verified manufacturer specifications covering display, performance, camera, battery, and build quality. Scores are generated by analyzing specs across weighted categories on a 10-point scale. Learn more about our methodology.
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