Overview

Joshua has reviewed dozens of open-back headphones from 2020–2025, focusing on:

• Tonal accuracy

• Soundstage & imaging

• Comfort & build

• Value for money

• Amp pairing & power requirements

He frequently compares benchmark models such as the Sennheiser HD600/650, HIFIMAN Sundara, Sennheiser HD560S, and Focal Clear MG, giving creators and audiophile beginners a clear path into the world of open-back audio.

This CreatorChat article condenses Joshua’s insights into practical buying advice for someone building a 2025 listening setup.

Your Question

“I want open-back headphones under ~$400 that offer spacious, detailed sound. Which model does Joshua recommend for my budget and listening style?”

Joshua Valour AI Summary (via CreatorChat)

Based entirely on his YouTube reviews, measurements, livestream Q&A, and long-term updates.

Here are the top three picks for this type of user:

1. HIFIMAN Sundara (2023–2025 Revision)

Best for: Neutral-bright detail + wide soundstage (best all-rounder under $300)

Why Joshua recommends it:

• Wide, airy soundstage that sounds more open than most sub-$500 headphones

• Excellent detail retrieval for the price

• Neutral-bright tuning enhances separation and clarity

• Light, comfortable design suitable for long sessions

• Strong value as an entry into planar magnetic headphones

Limitations:

• Slight brightness depending on amp/source

• Build consistency varied on earlier revisions

• Performs best with a desktop amp/interface

Ideal for: Listeners who want the widest, most spacious soundstage and the clearest detail under ~$300.

Buy the HIFIMAN Sundara

2. Sennheiser HD560S

Best for: Neutral reference sound + best imaging accuracy

Why Joshua recommends it:

• Class-leading imaging precision, excellent for competitive gaming

• Neutral, reference-style tuning

• Lightweight and extremely comfortable

• Easy to drive — works well with modest interfaces and amps

Considerations:

• Soundstage is accurate but not as wide as the Sundara

• More analytical than musical

• Bass quantity may feel light for some listeners

Ideal for: Listeners who want accurate imaging and a neutral tuning for critical listening or gaming.

Buy the Sennheiser HD560S

3. Sennheiser HD6XX (Massdrop/Drop)

Best for: Warm, intimate vocals + musicality

Why Joshua recommends it:

• Rich, smooth midrange perfect for vocals and acoustic instruments

• Intimate, emotional presentation

• Scales exceptionally well with better amplifiers

• Comfortable for long use

Downsides:

• Narrower soundstage compared to Sundara and HD560S

• Needs a proper amp to perform well

• Not ideal for competitive gaming

Ideal for: Listeners who prefer warm, engaging musical playback with emphasis on vocals and acoustic genres.

Buy the Sennheiser HD6XX

Joshua’s Comparison Logic (used by CreatorChat to tailor the recommendation):

• Most spacious, detailed sound under $300 → Sundara

• Most accurate for imaging + competitive gaming → HD560S

• Most musical & emotional tone → HD6XX

Recommendation for Your Workflow

You said: “I want open-back headphones under ~$400 with spacious sound for music, YouTube videos, and long sessions.”

Best Fit: HIFIMAN Sundara

• Widest soundstage in the price range

• Cleaner and more resolving than HD560S

• More neutral and detailed than HD6XX

• Scales well with a decent DAC/amp but sounds great even on mid-tier gear

Alternates:

• HD560S → Get this if imaging matters more than “fun.”

• HD6XX → Get this if you want a warm, smooth presentation and plan to buy an amp.

FAQs – Real Questions from Joshua’s Audience (answered by CreatorChat)

Q: Do I need an amp for any of these?
Joshua:
“HD6XX? Absolutely yes.
Sundara? You’ll benefit from a proper amp, but interfaces like the Solo or Duo are fine.
HD560S? Easiest to drive of the three — fine with mid-tier sources.”

Q: Which one has the biggest soundstage?
Joshua:
“Sundara is the widest and most open. HD560S is very accurate, but not wide. HD6XX is the narrowest but has the best timbre.”

Q: Which should I get if I listen at low volume late at night?
Joshua:
“Sundara or HD6XX — they maintain fullness better at lower volume than the analytical 560S.”

Q: Best for gaming?
Joshua:
“HD560S — best imaging accuracy. Sundara is good too, but for competitive FPS, 560S wins.”