10 Best Headphones 2025 in the UK

The Sennheiser HD 560S are open-back, over-ear headphones designed mainly for audio enthusiasts who want detailed and natural sound. Their open design allows sound waves to expand, giving music a realistic sense of space and depth. The sound quality is very clean and clear, especially with accurate low frequencies and a wide frequency response from 6 Hz to 38 kHz, which means they can reproduce subtle music details well. The angled transducers use E.A.R technology to keep the listening position just right, improving comfort and sound precision.

Since these headphones are wired with a 3.5 mm jack, you don’t have to worry about battery life, but this also means you’re tied to a physical connection, which might not be convenient for on-the-go use. Noise cancellation is passive only, so they won’t block out loud environments like active noise-cancelling models do. Comfort-wise, their ergonomic design and lightweight 240 g frame make them good for longer listening sessions, but being open-back, they do leak sound and don’t isolate noise.

These headphones are best suited for quiet indoor settings like home or studio listening, where sound quality is the top priority. Durability is decent with a sturdy build, but the fixed 1.8 m cable means replacement or portability can be a bit limiting. The HD 560S provide excellent sound clarity and comfort for serious music fans who want to hear every detail but aren’t looking for wireless freedom or noise cancellation.

The Audio-Technica M50x Professional Monitor Headphones are highly praised for their outstanding sound quality, featuring proprietary 45 mm drivers with rare earth magnets for accurate audio reproduction. With a frequency response of up to 28,000 Hz, they ensure a detailed sound experience, ideal for music production and critical listening. The circumaural design provides effective sound isolation in noisy environments, though it lacks active noise cancellation, which may be a downside for some users.

In terms of comfort, the professional-grade earpads and headband material offer durability and a comfortable fit for extended periods of use. However, as they are over-ear headphones, they might be bulky for some users. Battery life isn't a concern here as they are wired headphones, ensuring uninterrupted listening sessions. Connectivity is limited to wired with a 3.5 mm jack, which might not appeal to those preferring wireless options. The detachable cable adds convenience and reduces wear and tear.

Durability is a strong point due to quality materials used in construction. They are lightweight at 290 grams, making them portable. Additional features like the included cables enhance usability, but the lack of advanced features such as wireless connectivity, built-in microphone, or active noise cancellation might be considered drawbacks for some users. These headphones are particularly suited for professionals in audio engineering, musicians, and DJs who require precise sound reproduction and comfort during long sessions.