[bogginhead]

I have the opportunity to get either of these at decent prices (both $300-$400). The 500s are used, of course; the 560s are brand new and are the newer V3 version.

I've heard so many good things about the 500 sound. But the 560s are new and a little cheaper. My main concern is that if I did go with the 560s, am I still going to be trying to buy another pair of Hifimans after that? I'm just worried I might not be totally satisfied with them. And that maybe it's worth paying a bit more for the 500s. What do you guys think here?

 

[moriez]

I'm just worried I might now be totally satisfied with them.

Had to read twice to make sure..

One answer is even if you're satisfied that doesn't mean you can't keep exploring. Maybe go with what's most practical like auditioning.

 

[kid vic]

I have the opportunity to get either of these at decent prices (both $300-$400). The 500s are used, of course; the 560s are brand new and are the newer V3 version.

I've heard so many good things about the 500 sound. But the 560s are new and a little cheaper. My main concern is that if I did go with the 560s, am I still going to be trying to buy another pair of Hifimans after that? I'm just worried I might not be totally satisfied with them. And that maybe it's worth paying a bit more for the 500s. What do you guys think here?

HE500's no questions asked; not a fair comparison. When the HE-560's were released no one considered them a worthy succesor, never heard of someone selling the HE560s and regretting it either. In the flagship the HE500s are one of the highest rated and it still holds its own against newer planars so...

 

[arrowmark]

I have the opportunity to get either of these at decent prices (both $300-$400). The 500s are used, of course; the 560s are brand new and are the newer V3 version.

I've heard so many good things about the 500 sound. But the 560s are new and a little cheaper. My main concern is that if I did go with the 560s, am I still going to be trying to buy another pair of Hifimans after that? I'm just worried I might not be totally satisfied with them. And that maybe it's worth paying a bit more for the 500s. What do you guys think here?

I have both and prefer the HE-560.They have better treble extension, bigger soundstage ,much lighter and more comfortable.

 

[zozan]

Focus-A pads solves the 'hardness' around 4-5khz to some extent, making the bass heavier sounding because you're less distracted from that lower treble area. Subway Surfers Psiphon Hill Climb Racing

 

[SilverEars]

I have both and prefer the HE-560.They have better treble extension, bigger soundstage ,much lighter and more comfortable.

That's not treble extension, it's treble peak, and that somewhat ruins the tonal balance.

 

[arrowmark]

That's not treble extension, it's treble peak, and that somewhat ruins the tonal balance.

Ok thanks
I still enjoy the HE-560 more

 

[kid vic]

Ok thanks
I still enjoy the HE-560 more

Whenever I make crazy blanket statements I always imagine someone will come and throw them out.

 

[omniweltall]

This is the easiest choice ever. I consider HE500 to be the last hifiman headphone. I easily prefer it to HEK.

 

[bagwell359]

Only heard the 560 v1 unmodded. It was no match for my modded 500's. The 560 is lighter, and the upper bass blends into the lower mids better than the 500 with a small amp - and that's it for the advantages.