I love that you also test headphones against movies and games. Most audiophile gear reviewers exclusively test against music and I am not a music-only audio lover.
I legit made a post about this on an audio fourm! It gets so frustrating, I care about quality in both my audio but I don't listen to music as often. I'm a huge Movie/Gaming guy and I do all of this at my computer desk. For some reason with speaker reviews (I often look at bookshelf speaker reviews for near field listening) they often branch out more but with headphones it's pure music.
That's because we, as new age audiophiles, care about good quality sound across all the spectrum of our interests and now how they were initially intended.
This is the exact review/comparison I have been looking for on the 9600. This has a ton of good information on all three of these headphones, all of which I have been considering as options. Thanks!
Got the SHP9500 because they were basically giving them away for free on Aliexpress at some point and despite the build quality feeling budget-as-hell I still can't get over the fact that they sound as good as they do, even without mods.
The 58X is the most chill headphone, (or anything audio) I’ve ever heard. I still prefer the 558s for the better comfort, the bit of soundstage that just allows the separate instruments to have breathing room, and I prefer it’s portrayal of stringed instruments over the 58X. Great video as always.
I have three pair, my first pair has over 5000 hours in games and almost 6 years. I just replace the cables and buy another Vmoda mic and you are good.
I still, own my 58x. However, I gave up on my 9500's. They sounded good, but the sibilance was a bit harsh to my liking. The 58x is great in each area that was mentioned.
@@windowlicker6776 can you guys help me with something else: I don't really understand what these settings do, but I was thinking I could get two sets of settings, one for gaming and one for movies. Am I wrong in thinking I could use the above settings for gaming? Would you be kind enough to provide me a movie eq?
Great videos I was surprised by your number of subscriber , you should have reached millions by now judging by your content keep up the hardwork and you should reach it in no time
I went with the 9600s. It has great separation and bass which hardly any open back can accomplish both. The way I use them is for movies and games and occasionally I listen to music from Apple Music(pro tip, the “rock” equalizer sounds the best with this headphone)
I had the 9500s for a week and wasn’t blown away. Very good at separation but it lacked depth. The sound was comparable to the “transparent” mode on AirPod pros
@@moltified if you like bass, get closed back headphones instead, open back headphones doesn't have much bass compared to those. I personally have the 9500's and the bass is perfectly fine for me but every person has a different opinion.
58x break the headphone economy under $200 (more tbh), I legit prefer mine to my hd600, similar but with decent bass and without the peaky higher mids... 9600 need to go under $100 to be a deal
That treble response + soundstage and imaging of the 9500 is why i have it for gaming like Overwatch or COD. For music listening i shift to my X2HR. No reason to upgrade to the 9600 or even the X3 especially that i got the X2HR at 120 dollars new
These budget audiophile headphone reviews are really helpful! Now if only I can find open back heaphones in this price range with the openness and airiness of the SHP9500s but the smoother and flatter treble response of the 58X headhones. I'm watching your review on the HD560S next.
@@Benri05 Hey I actually got the 58x! I first bought the SHP 9500s and it was REALLY good but I returned it in favor of the 58x. 9500s were waaay to open and leaked and brought in sound too much, it wasn't really too bassy as well but regardless very open and nice but to open. The 58x fills in that gap and more. It's open and not too much. It also has plenty of bass to satisfy me. Unlike my shitty "gaming headphones" that I had before... these are literally made for gaming, watching movies, and listening to every and all things. The sound it produces is not muffled or it doesn't have like a veil of the sort... The sound really just is everywhere you know... it's like you're in an environment with whatever your listening to. I tried out the music I used to listen to before on my shitty razer headphones and honestly... it clearly defined what was being played and so much more that was just hidden? everything is also on separate levels and nothing is intruding whatever sound is playing, everything is even and is just really imersive. I play games a lot and honestly my first night playing COD Warzone. I was in between the tall buildings and stadium. Two guys rolled up to me that were chasing each other but decided I was an easy target. First one hopped out and I got behind cover, usually I would lose track and woudn't be able to hear the footsteps. But this time I could, it was seperate from all the other sounds in game and so I jumped out and got him. The other player was like 32m blending in with the bushes and whatnot but still I could faintly hear him and also this third other player on the tall buildings shooting down with like a heavy assualy rifle. The second player comes up to me and I start dodging and weaving in an out of cover to close the distance, meanwhile this third player is on the buildings shooting down on us. I'm trying to listen to the second guy and challenging him and this third guy just lost it and emptied his magazine into us. I got so overwhelemped with everything because the bullets from the third guy are whizzing by and also hitting the ground which are two seperate sounds and also him firing from like 140m+ which I can litterally pintpoint where he is regardless of where I am or where I'm facing, paired with this other guys footsteps and him shooting at me. I never got overwhelmed and have never taken of my headphones so fast to recoperate and calm down. Like my brain literally coudn't handle all this input and I just frooze in the middle of the fightand got beamed lol. Honestly I would suggest you get it. It's 220$ after taxes and shipping if you're in the USA. The extra $20 is for two day shipping but I'm sure you can get it less. I bought it from DROP website and am running it straight of my PC with no DAC/AMPS. Recently I EQed it but that's all in your preference, alone this thing is a beast. Goodluck and feel free to ask questions, sorry for any typo as I'm just typing as I go lol.
Own 58x and it's my cheapest headphone. Everytime I listen I am still impressed with its performance. Very intimate and can be claustrophobic in some cases. Vocals are absolutely amazing. Literally sounds like they are the microphone. Be warned - the 58X is a gateway drug. You will soon up your budget wanting more. After that it can get out of control quickly. Now own Focal Clears and 5 other headphones. You have been warned.
I had a HD58x and was VERY impressed by the imaging, it was ridiculously accurate, the sound stage was a bit underwhelming and the resolution was rather bad, especially for rock music, this is why I sold them.
@@raffael01ify HD560s. Very neutral and has a wide and precise soundstage. Also not very expensive.
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Thank you for your comparisons and advice, I was about to buy the 9500 but I was worried for the sibilance. I can't really enjoy ny of my current headphones because of this and I didn't want that issue in my first audiophile headphone. Already have a dongle dac so now I'll get the complete set. I only could find the sennheiser 599 but at double the price in my country and it's not on aliexpress, so I finally got the 9600. Very good content in this channel thanks again
@@marvistv6551 it is great actually. It doesn't rumble or anything like that this is an audiophile headphone. But it has just little enough accent on it to make it very enjoyable
I'm taking the plunge on the 9600's. First time with open backs and I've been looking for something new for PS5 but also general music listening during the workday. They are priced better in Canada than the 9500s and fit my boom mic. I looked at more expensive stuff like Hifi's, but prices and availability in Canada is bonkers. I think I'll start small.
Great review as always. I have some kilobuck headphones but still listen to my 58x frequently and always use them as my portable pair. They are the king and deserve the praise.
So I've had my 9500s the longest and I got the 9600s just the day before, did alot of back and forth testing with my testing playlist and the thing is you'd think the 9600s are just 9500 plus more bass, and there definitely is more bass but the 9600 actually sound a lil veiled/ less detailed, which makes me prefer the 9500. All that being said I want a heaphone that are more for intimate vocals, will I find that with the 58x???
@@TranceHistorian Im really enjoying them. They areent neutral and have a warm sound. The sound stage is odd, all the sounds are well separated but you can't always tell where they are coming from.The best way I can describe them is fun.
The 9600's were my first pair of wired headphones that I actually purchased and that was less than a month ago. I love their soundstage, so very open and airy compared to the Beats I have been using for years. I was lacking that bass that I crave and purchased the Meze 99's and wow what a difference! I haven't had a chance to try them out with everything yet as I just received them last night but they are on a whole other level than Beats lol. I'm not knocking Beats as I have owned several pair of them but dang those Meze are clean!
I like that you rate them for different things. I use ad900x for gaming and eventually I'll be looking for a replacement so I appreciate that you discuss that.
@@mosasa1307 They in my opinion have really good imaging and wide enough soundstage but they don't have a crazy wide soundstage. Sound signature is super bass lite but the treble is pretty detailed to me. Honestly there's probably some better headphones out there right now for gaming as I bought these quite a few years ago but compared to my Steelseries Sibera Elite Prism "gaming" headphones it's like night and day difference. The Steelseries tells you which direction (North E S W) where the AD900X tells you where someone is within maybe 10 degrees. Back when I played CSGO it made a big difference in my gameplay specifically callouts and shooting at people before my brain sees them. Edit: so the main things I'm looking for in their replacement are great imaging and more bass however the AD900X respond well to a bass boost.
@@TylerStout alright thankis, I ended up impulse buying the 9500 last night as they were $16 dollars off. Got it for like $73 bucks. I'll reply to you and share my experience once It gets here and I test it.
@@mosasa1307 my gf has them they sound very similar to mine just with a touch more bass. Haven't really gamed on them so can't really say how imaging and soundstage compare.
problem is the pricing for me. (Prices in SGD) HD58X will cost about 90 bucks more than the 9600, and that does not even account for shipping (which massdrop doesnt ship to Singapore) So if i want it, HD58X will cost $280 for me from 3rd parties, while the 9600 will cost $140. So i went with the 9600
Something I would like to mention if we're talking about the best headphones under $200. The DT 880, specifically the editions with EDT990VB pads. If you can find these they will essentially blow away the above mentioned headphones in all areas. Just need to find a good sale on them. I found mine for under $200 cad and they are the best value I've ever gotten on a headphone.
I had them and they’re were clearly a very technically good headphone but they just seemed kinda lifeless compared to my others. Ended up selling them. If I ever got 880s again I’d try the 600 ohm version but I’d need a more powerful amp for that.
Mine were the chrome edition. They had black pads. I mean they’re resolution was insane, it’s just that I didn’t use them enough to justify having them around.
@@Isaac_L.. Oh well they are a bit bright compared to something like the 650 but overall I prefer their sound. 650 is a completely different tuning. So much mids!
I enjoy music as much as I would like to hear all the sound effects of each instruments playing. Unfortunately, one can only tell us how their own experiences is in regards to some of details one might look forward into. But it isn't going to be a reflection of the real thing. I bought my first headset 9600 solely for the reason bc open-back could deliver more broadrange of sound. And these just nailed it. I could clearly hear all the sound effects in all kinds of instruments playing compared to when I had my closed back headphones which are boomy, in sound making all the other sound tiny or inaudible. 2nd reason I picked this headset is the finished of it making it looked like there isn't too much going on there or 'minimal' I think is the term for it.
I have the 9500’s and the 58x. I use the 9500 for gaming because they are extremely easy to drive and the Xbox and PS drive them to uncomfortable levels of loud. The 58x I use for music with an amp because while they are easy to drive, using your phone leaves a little to be desired volume wise. The 9500’s are easy to add the mod mic boom so it’s a no brainer. While the 58x work well for gaming, adding a mod mic gets expensive.
Someone somewhere (maybe in a comment here) said it may have received some sort of super-SHP9500, because he/she felt it sounded better than anything else. I've tested the 3 of these headphones and among them, SHP9500 sounds better.
The 9500 was my introduction to hifi audio, and the 58x is currently my endgame headset because I never plan to buy a decent dac or amp for any of the better stuff. The 58x is way better in everything except soundstage. 9500 soundstage blows the 58x out of the water, but again everything else is better and clearer with the 58x. Stock pads on the 9500 are really bad, and I bought Shure 940 pads for more comfort, and it actually matches the 58x in bass with those pads, while retaining the soundstage and clarity of the stock pads. Highly recommend the Shure 940 pads or something similar if you plan to get a 9500.
Revisiting this review xmas 2021 - current prices in uk 9600 £75 9500 £105 hd 58x would be £160 - after watching this i think the 9600 fits. 2nd head to the collection to add to my budget entry Superlux 668B
Hey Josh, I've been around your channel for the last month and a half and have been loving the content. I'd still consider myself to be relatively new to the audio community, so, with that in mind: perhaps it's just my lack of exposure, but what exactly do you mean when you use the expression "finite," or "very finite"?
I had the 9600 and they weren't that bad but recently purchased the 9500 out of curiosity and the looks and overall, I prefer the 9500 and returned the 9600. they both sound good but I prefer the 9500 sound wise and look wise. The copper ring on the 9600 just didn't look good to me. I know people don't like huge labels on their devices, but I actually don't mind. So, the huge L and R on the 9500 looks pretty cool to me.
Just get the 9600 the lack of bass on open back headphones is a thing but with the 9600 you'll sacrifice just a bit on the MIDs and HIGHs but that's not a deal breaker is it? Also I think the 9600 design is cooler and as far as I know they are more comfortable and fit better than the 9500.
Much better soundstage with the SHP9500. Gaming should be good with them. I just couldn't stand the sibilance and lack of sub-bass with them while listening to music.
Two good phones idk what anyone says. M50x has that “brain-injection” type soundstage which I think works to its benefit, so long as you can wear them comfortably
For gaming yes, music no. I also use the 9500 for Overwatch and I can hear enemies coming towards me from behind and can pinpoint where they are accurately
Interesting description 👍, yeah a bit narrow and not much forward. Maybe if Sennheiser would angled drivers and put them farther things would improve. For 170$ -20bucks, still hard to beat.
To be fair the 9500 cost a lot less than the other 2. Sometime they go on sale for $60. So literally it's 2 different category. And I mean the 9500 and the 9600 have only a minor difference might as well get the 9500. Plus the its cheaper
Bass on 58x isn't earth shattering but more extended to deeper. I have few music have very deep bass and 58X has no problem. 58X is definitely winner on voice even it's intact (clear and accurate)
His argument really leans toward the 58x. I own them. Things he didn't mention is ....You will want to modify them to actually get the sound he is talking about. All you really do is remove all the foam from them. And the earpads are total shit. Mine were already beginning to flatten after a couple months. The velour is also itchy and it is difficult to get after market pads that actually sound good on the 58x. I have no idea about the 9500s and the 9600s.
Josh himself is becoming legendary, IMO. His reviews are well thought out, well presented and well argued too. If he keeps this up he’s gonna end up on my Christmas card list. :)
All Sennheiser HD 5 and 6 series need the foam behind and in front of the Driver for many reasons that have been alrealy talked on Forums... Even a small hair inside the driver can change the sound ... DIY heaven also makes some tests on that. Beyerdynamic owners also know that....
I have the 58X, DT880-600, listened to the HD600 and of course they are best in my opinion, other than bass which is better on 58X. Beyers need filter to lower the highs, lack upper mids, bass, very comfy headphones and decent resolution. I moded 58X with the 4-4.5mm hole in felt on the back of the drivers as per Solder Dude mod, and instead of foam I put ladies stockings, a bit thicker to get just a hair of a lift above 1k, but it is not a big difference comparing with the foam. The only thing I wish for the 58X, is wider soundstage and better details. Other than for the money, it's really hard to find something better.
@@pliedtka 58x doesnt have better bass than HD 600 and HD660s ... More bass doesnt mean better. HD600 and HD660s have more clear more texture and progressive bass than 58x.
The HD 598 SE and SR used to be reduced to $100 in Prime Day / Black Friday deals, similarly the X2 and X2HR had a similar hefty discount. I'd say they're the best under $200 when they go on sale but I've not been able to try any of these 3 in person. The 58X sound a little too bass heavy and suppressed in the mids compared to the 6XX and 600 from oluv / clavinetjunkie's comparison
9600 will be a better buy when the price starts dropping closer to USD$100. Has anyone here tried coffee filters (or felt?) in front of the SHP9500 driver to tame that spiky treble? They are so cheap when on sale I’m tempted to try a pair.
I just received a pair of the SHP9600 today from Amazon, where I was able to find a seller offering a $30 discount coupon reducing the price to $99. Picked them to use with the XBOX as well as when I want a break from the clarity of the Sennheiser HD 560s.
@@josaphcj7199 They sounds great. Enough detail to not be soft by any means, but an overall warmer sound than a pure reference headphone. I did find them a bit looser than I prefer for my size/shape of head though. So sometimes I feel like I need to hold them against my ears, and all of sudden there's a lot more sound there. Obviously, this won't apply to everyone. I'd recommend these to anyone, especially at the price point of the original post. Not sure what they cost "today."
I only trust you, Bad Guy and Zeos for headphone recommendations; and I love how you never oversell something like the other two sometimes do. It almost seemed like a 58X FTW video at the midpoint, but then you covered where the SHPs outperform it at the end, and I'm glad that I'll be about fine with my 9500 in my use case scenario. REALLY good comparison, man.
I know I'm a bit late, but just get the HD58X; they are much more detailed. The HD599 is more of a casual listeners headphone for general media consumption i.e. movies, games, etc.
Joshua, I own the SUSVARA. I was wondering if you were still gonna do a full review on the SUSVARA. I also own the ARYA and HE1000se. I was curious how you compared the SUSVARA to your favorite ARYA. G
I love that you also test headphones against movies and games. Most audiophile gear reviewers exclusively test against music and I am not a music-only audio lover.
I legit made a post about this on an audio fourm!
It gets so frustrating, I care about quality in both my audio but I don't listen to music as often. I'm a huge Movie/Gaming guy and I do all of this at my computer desk. For some reason with speaker reviews (I often look at bookshelf speaker reviews for near field listening) they often branch out more but with headphones it's pure music.
@@FairZack234 Exactly my experience. They also never mention how the spoken word sounds - for example audiobooks and podcasts. Very frustrating.
That's because we, as new age audiophiles, care about good quality sound across all the spectrum of our interests and now how they were initially intended.
I don't know why but the 9500's look frickin amazing and those goofy L and R even make them better for some reason 😂
Theyre like $80 at most and EQ very well to bring back that Bass that people complain about
@@ThevenimX along with quantity the quality of the bass is also low but yes $80 can't complain
I must be the only soul in existence that thinks the SHP9500 has perfect bass without EQ or anything
@@ThevenimX Dude you can get insane bass out of these headphones. Enough to tickle your ears. You need a lot of power and an eq like you said.
They're great i use them sooo much
Just got a pair of SHP9600 for my wife and then my son got a pair too. Thx Joshua 👍
Great deal now that they're under $100.
This is the exact review/comparison I have been looking for on the 9600. This has a ton of good information on all three of these headphones, all of which I have been considering as options. Thanks!
The B-roll on these videos is on point!
I saw that X3 in the background there, meaning a review is coming soon :)
Badseedtech reviewed them, underwhelming
Yeah almost bought one the other day until everything I saw said to go with the G6. So that’s what I did.
@@christian7200 G6?
@@JapesZX old but I think he’s confused and is referring to sound blaster sound cards not the X3 headphones
Honestly, I like playing games and listening to music. Those 9600’s lookin so classy!
4:32 a lot of people forget that when it comes to audio. If you enjoy it, nothing else matters!
Got the SHP9500 because they were basically giving them away for free on Aliexpress at some point and despite the build quality feeling budget-as-hell I still can't get over the fact that they sound as good as they do, even without mods.
I need to watch this video again. It's really late and you go so deep that I get lost in thought. Very good video sir. Keep it up 💪🏿
The 58X is the most chill headphone, (or anything audio) I’ve ever heard. I still prefer the 558s for the better comfort, the bit of soundstage that just allows the separate instruments to have breathing room, and I prefer it’s portrayal of stringed instruments over the 58X. Great video as always.
Great explanations! This helped me feel good about recently buying the SHP9500 for gaming instead of the HD58X
I have three pair, my first pair has over 5000 hours in games and almost 6 years. I just replace the cables and buy another Vmoda mic and you are good.
The 58x is ten times better for gaming in my opinion.
How are they? I'm thinking of buying the Hyperx Cloud Alpha S. I play on Xbox and games like Apex and siege so I need those distant footsteps
I still, own my 58x. However, I gave up on my 9500's. They sounded good, but the sibilance was a bit harsh to my liking. The 58x is great in each area that was mentioned.
@@lisan_al-ghaib can you pls help me with the eq settings you are talking about?
@@lisan_al-ghaib thank you
@@lisan_al-ghaib this is my first pair.
@@ionescurazvan913 you can also try this www.dropbox.com/s/sc2wanrbrqe0qn7/PhilipsSHP9500.pdf?dl=0
@@windowlicker6776 can you guys help me with something else: I don't really understand what these settings do, but I was thinking I could get two sets of settings, one for gaming and one for movies. Am I wrong in thinking I could use the above settings for gaming? Would you be kind enough to provide me a movie eq?
Great videos I was surprised by your number of subscriber , you should have reached millions by now judging by your content keep up the hardwork and you should reach it in no time
Great content man, you deserve more recognition and subs. Your camera, editing and voice work are all incredible
I went with the 9600s. It has great separation and bass which hardly any open back can accomplish both. The way I use them is for movies and games and occasionally I listen to music from Apple Music(pro tip, the “rock” equalizer sounds the best with this headphone)
I had the 9500s for a week and wasn’t blown away. Very good at separation but it lacked depth. The sound was comparable to the “transparent” mode on AirPod pros
@@onepurpose315 Very helpful comments, thank you!
Is an Amp/DAC recommend for the 9600?
@@Obito_RLI would say yes
The amount of adjectives in this review is staggering.
Good job sir
Love some good ole headphone comparison videos. I know you have probably done so many you are running out but always appreciate them.
Last week I bought a pair of SHP9500 for $62 on the big A. They are really great sounding, and really comfortable. Good review, Josh.
do they have lots of bass?
@@moltified if you like bass, get closed back headphones instead, open back headphones doesn't have much bass compared to those.
I personally have the 9500's and the bass is perfectly fine for me but every person has a different opinion.
Can the 9600 be worse than the 9500? Because I see the 9600 on sale on Amazon and I get purchase them with my current budget
58x break the headphone economy under $200 (more tbh), I legit prefer mine to my hd600, similar but with decent bass and without the peaky higher mids...
9600 need to go under $100 to be a deal
Yeah, Philips made a mistake in the pricing of the 9600 and the X3
Agreed. Only reason I haven't picked them up is because I refuse to pay $130. I'll keep to my 9500 until they come down $20-30.
80 bucks now!
the 9600 are on sale now for $70 on amazon currently with the 9500's being $60, so looks like they are a pretty good deal right now lol.
looks like the 600 is a good monitor
That treble response + soundstage and imaging of the 9500 is why i have it for gaming like Overwatch or COD. For music listening i shift to my X2HR. No reason to upgrade to the 9600 or even the X3 especially that i got the X2HR at 120 dollars new
Been looking for some solid reviews for awhile for my next pair of headphones, and this is a damn good one.
Proheadphones.net
These budget audiophile headphone reviews are really helpful! Now if only I can find open back heaphones in this price range with the openness and airiness of the SHP9500s but the smoother and flatter treble response of the 58X headhones. I'm watching your review on the HD560S next.
between you aand Zeos, you made me buy the HD 58x i am so extremely psyched to listen to it at the end of this month.
hey man! two months later, how is it?
Any update?
@@Benri05 Hey I actually got the 58x! I first bought the SHP 9500s and it was REALLY good but I returned it in favor of the 58x. 9500s were waaay to open and leaked and brought in sound too much, it wasn't really too bassy as well but regardless very open and nice but to open. The 58x fills in that gap and more. It's open and not too much. It also has plenty of bass to satisfy me. Unlike my shitty "gaming headphones" that I had before... these are literally made for gaming, watching movies, and listening to every and all things. The sound it produces is not muffled or it doesn't have like a veil of the sort... The sound really just is everywhere you know... it's like you're in an environment with whatever your listening to. I tried out the music I used to listen to before on my shitty razer headphones and honestly... it clearly defined what was being played and so much more that was just hidden? everything is also on separate levels and nothing is intruding whatever sound is playing, everything is even and is just really imersive. I play games a lot and honestly my first night playing COD Warzone. I was in between the tall buildings and stadium. Two guys rolled up to me that were chasing each other but decided I was an easy target. First one hopped out and I got behind cover, usually I would lose track and woudn't be able to hear the footsteps. But this time I could, it was seperate from all the other sounds in game and so I jumped out and got him. The other player was like 32m blending in with the bushes and whatnot but still I could faintly hear him and also this third other player on the tall buildings shooting down with like a heavy assualy rifle. The second player comes up to me and I start dodging and weaving in an out of cover to close the distance, meanwhile this third player is on the buildings shooting down on us. I'm trying to listen to the second guy and challenging him and this third guy just lost it and emptied his magazine into us. I got so overwhelemped with everything because the bullets from the third guy are whizzing by and also hitting the ground which are two seperate sounds and also him firing from like 140m+ which I can litterally pintpoint where he is regardless of where I am or where I'm facing, paired with this other guys footsteps and him shooting at me. I never got overwhelmed and have never taken of my headphones so fast to recoperate and calm down. Like my brain literally coudn't handle all this input and I just frooze in the middle of the fightand got beamed lol. Honestly I would suggest you get it. It's 220$ after taxes and shipping if you're in the USA. The extra $20 is for two day shipping but I'm sure you can get it less. I bought it from DROP website and am running it straight of my PC with no DAC/AMPS. Recently I EQed it but that's all in your preference, alone this thing is a beast. Goodluck and feel free to ask questions, sorry for any typo as I'm just typing as I go lol.
@@mosasa1307 very cool story hahah love to hear it
Own 58x and it's my cheapest headphone. Everytime I listen I am still impressed with its performance. Very intimate and can be claustrophobic in some cases. Vocals are absolutely amazing. Literally sounds like they are the microphone. Be warned - the 58X is a gateway drug. You will soon up your budget wanting more. After that it can get out of control quickly. Now own Focal Clears and 5 other headphones. You have been warned.
I've owned my x58/k5 pro for two days from laptop speakers/onboard motherboard audio and am getting these urges
and don't subscribe to zeos, he's the plug
I like that they are your CHEAPEST headphones. 😊
Schiit.
Damn bro wish I saw this sooner lmaoo
Great timing with the review, gotta get that black friday wishlist ready.
Great video! I have both the 9500 and 660S and I love them both for how different and good they are :D
This! is the comparison I wanted to see when I heard about 9600, thanks!
I ve never watched a comparison video SO COMPREHENSIVE, SO IN DEPTH AND SO SATISFACTORY wrt sound/performance. thank u very much.
This is a great lineup to review. Can't wait to see this video!
I would love more comparisons like this!
The recommendations based on what music you listen to, or if you watch more movies or game more is excellent!
58Xs with a Little Dot MKii running GE JAN5654W's and man it's amazing, soundstage and bass is far better than I would have expected...
I had a HD58x and was VERY impressed by the imaging, it was ridiculously accurate, the sound stage was a bit underwhelming and the resolution was rather bad, especially for rock music, this is why I sold them.
you advise me which headphones for the soundstage? thanks
Man I'm running mine through tubes its amazing I have no complaints the soundstage feels very large
@@raffael01ify HD560s. Very neutral and has a wide and precise soundstage. Also not very expensive.
Thank you for your comparisons and advice, I was about to buy the 9500 but I was worried for the sibilance. I can't really enjoy ny of my current headphones because of this and I didn't want that issue in my first audiophile headphone. Already have a dongle dac so now I'll get the complete set. I only could find the sennheiser 599 but at double the price in my country and it's not on aliexpress, so I finally got the 9600. Very good content in this channel thanks again
How’s the 9600 bass
@@marvistv6551 it is great actually. It doesn't rumble or anything like that this is an audiophile headphone. But it has just little enough accent on it to make it very enjoyable
You’ve got some top notch cinematography.
This is just what I was looking for. Thanks!
I'm taking the plunge on the 9600's. First time with open backs and I've been looking for something new for PS5 but also general music listening during the workday. They are priced better in Canada than the 9500s and fit my boom mic. I looked at more expensive stuff like Hifi's, but prices and availability in Canada is bonkers. I think I'll start small.
how did they sound? i am getting them coz i cant find 9500
Very technical review, thank you Joshua 👍
Insanely awesome comparison review!
A very detailed review and comparison!!!
Great review as always. I have some kilobuck headphones but still listen to my 58x frequently and always use them as my portable pair. They are the king and deserve the praise.
Your review is one of the reasons why I ordered the SHP9600.
So excited for it, I don't know if it lives up to my expectations. Fingers crossed.
I'm thinking about purchasing it. How is it? If you've experienced the 9500, can you tell me if it's worse or better?
how is it ? i have ordered it
@@josaphcj7199 It works better in a laptop audio jack specially if your laptop has Dolby Atmos, in mobile phones not so much.
Now that's a detailed comparison.👍
For some reason I like the 9500 for vocals, I enjoy hearing the crackling vocal nuances these cans produce lol
Love your videos man! Keep it up
The way you film the shots makes it seem like you shoot on a red camera
Thank you. Mostly A6300 and a little GH5 for the macro stuff.
@@JoshuaValour No lie your shots put other huge youtubers to shame
Yeah dude is gifted with a camera.
@@potion95 actually it's his lighting and colour grading, which are phenomenal. He not doing much with the camera 😅
and you can't forget the audio quality
A great review and comparison as always.
So I've had my 9500s the longest and I got the 9600s just the day before, did alot of back and forth testing with my testing playlist and the thing is you'd think the 9600s are just 9500 plus more bass, and there definitely is more bass but the 9600 actually sound a lil veiled/ less detailed, which makes me prefer the 9500. All that being said I want a heaphone that are more for intimate vocals, will I find that with the 58x???
Nice comparison. Makes me want HD58X.
I was tossing up between the 9500 and 9600 to complement a set of grado sr225e and Im glad I went 9600 now after watching this
How are you liking them?? I wanna get some as well but wasn't sure if they would be good for all my uses.
@@TranceHistorian Im really enjoying them. They areent neutral and have a warm sound. The sound stage is odd, all the sounds are well separated but you can't always tell where they are coming from.The best way I can describe them is fun.
9600 sounds great and looks classy elite as well
The 9600's were my first pair of wired headphones that I actually purchased and that was less than a month ago. I love their soundstage, so very open and airy compared to the Beats I have been using for years. I was lacking that bass that I crave and purchased the Meze 99's and wow what a difference! I haven't had a chance to try them out with everything yet as I just received them last night but they are on a whole other level than Beats lol. I'm not knocking Beats as I have owned several pair of them but dang those Meze are clean!
Love your videos dude. They are so informative and they are helping me to learn alot about audio gear. Keep it up♥️
I like that you rate them for different things. I use ad900x for gaming and eventually I'll be looking for a replacement so I appreciate that you discuss that.
are those really good for gaming? I play warzone mainly and can't hear footsteps well...
@@mosasa1307 They in my opinion have really good imaging and wide enough soundstage but they don't have a crazy wide soundstage. Sound signature is super bass lite but the treble is pretty detailed to me. Honestly there's probably some better headphones out there right now for gaming as I bought these quite a few years ago but compared to my Steelseries Sibera Elite Prism "gaming" headphones it's like night and day difference. The Steelseries tells you which direction (North E S W) where the AD900X tells you where someone is within maybe 10 degrees. Back when I played CSGO it made a big difference in my gameplay specifically callouts and shooting at people before my brain sees them. Edit: so the main things I'm looking for in their replacement are great imaging and more bass however the AD900X respond well to a bass boost.
@@TylerStout alright thankis, I ended up impulse buying the 9500 last night as they were $16 dollars off. Got it for like $73 bucks. I'll reply to you and share my experience once It gets here and I test it.
@@mosasa1307 my gf has them they sound very similar to mine just with a touch more bass. Haven't really gamed on them so can't really say how imaging and soundstage compare.
problem is the pricing for me. (Prices in SGD) HD58X will cost about 90 bucks more than the 9600, and that does not even account for shipping (which massdrop doesnt ship to Singapore)
So if i want it, HD58X will cost $280 for me from 3rd parties, while the 9600 will cost $140. So i went with the 9600
Was thinking of snagging the 9500 because at this point they're a classic..
Did you pick them up? Thoughts? I’m looking at all three of these. Have only used noise cancelling units to date.
@Brian Caine ended up with HD 560S' and can say I love them. Hyddy picked up the 9600, and also loves them.
@@crypticvisionary thank you.
Something I would like to mention if we're talking about the best headphones under $200. The DT 880, specifically the editions with EDT990VB pads. If you can find these they will essentially blow away the above mentioned headphones in all areas. Just need to find a good sale on them. I found mine for under $200 cad and they are the best value I've ever gotten on a headphone.
I had them and they’re were clearly a very technically good headphone but they just seemed kinda lifeless compared to my others. Ended up selling them. If I ever got 880s again I’d try the 600 ohm version but I’d need a more powerful amp for that.
@@Isaac_L.. They have to have the EDT990VB model pads which are not the Silver pads on the DT880/DT990's.
Mine were the chrome edition. They had black pads. I mean they’re resolution was insane, it’s just that I didn’t use them enough to justify having them around.
And I definitely agree that they’re totally underrated for the price, just not my preferred sound signature... the specific ones I had anyway.
@@Isaac_L.. Oh well they are a bit bright compared to something like the 650 but overall I prefer their sound. 650 is a completely different tuning. So much mids!
I enjoy music as much as I would like to hear all the sound effects of each instruments playing. Unfortunately, one can only tell us how their own experiences is in regards to some of details one might look forward into. But it isn't going to be a reflection of the real thing. I bought my first headset 9600 solely for the reason bc open-back could deliver more broadrange of sound. And these just nailed it. I could clearly hear all the sound effects in all kinds of instruments playing compared to when I had my closed back headphones which are boomy, in sound making all the other sound tiny or inaudible.
2nd reason I picked this headset is the finished of it making it looked like there isn't too much going on there or 'minimal' I think is the term for it.
I have the 9500’s and the 58x. I use the 9500 for gaming because they are extremely easy to drive and the Xbox and PS drive them to uncomfortable levels of loud. The 58x I use for music with an amp because while they are easy to drive, using your phone leaves a little to be desired volume wise. The 9500’s are easy to add the mod mic boom so it’s a no brainer. While the 58x work well for gaming, adding a mod mic gets expensive.
You need a Beyerdynamic Tygr300r review up :p asap
Someone somewhere (maybe in a comment here) said it may have received some sort of super-SHP9500, because he/she felt it sounded better than anything else. I've tested the 3 of these headphones and among them, SHP9500 sounds better.
what are those three headphones sir?
The 9500 was my introduction to hifi audio, and the 58x is currently my endgame headset because I never plan to buy a decent dac or amp for any of the better stuff.
The 58x is way better in everything except soundstage. 9500 soundstage blows the 58x out of the water, but again everything else is better and clearer with the 58x. Stock pads on the 9500 are really bad, and I bought Shure 940 pads for more comfort, and it actually matches the 58x in bass with those pads, while retaining the soundstage and clarity of the stock pads. Highly recommend the Shure 940 pads or something similar if you plan to get a 9500.
Excellent reviews!
Revisiting this review xmas 2021 - current prices in uk 9600 £75 9500 £105 hd 58x would be £160 - after watching this i think the 9600 fits. 2nd head to the collection to add to my budget entry Superlux 668B
Hey Josh, I've been around your channel for the last month and a half and have been loving the content. I'd still consider myself to be relatively new to the audio community, so, with that in mind: perhaps it's just my lack of exposure, but what exactly do you mean when you use the expression "finite," or "very finite"?
Love the 9600’s, probably the best budget headphone outside of the Koss KSC75X’s.
My man what mic do you use for your videos?
I’m on a budget but I bought the 9500s. I also just bought the creative sound blasterx g6 and would love your review on that budget dac
I had the 9600 and they weren't that bad but recently purchased the 9500 out of curiosity and the looks and overall, I prefer the 9500 and returned the 9600. they both sound good but I prefer the 9500 sound wise and look wise. The copper ring on the 9600 just didn't look good to me. I know people don't like huge labels on their devices, but I actually don't mind. So, the huge L and R on the 9500 looks pretty cool to me.
For mostly fps gaming and some music listening, I take it the PC37x is still better than the 9600?
I think so
I Havent tried them but ive never liked sennheiser closed cans
I hear the Tygr 300 is the peak for under $200 gaming/music listening
@@ThevenimX i need to try the tygr, i still havent heard em
Just get the 9600 the lack of bass on open back headphones is a thing but with the 9600 you'll sacrifice just a bit on the MIDs and HIGHs but that's not a deal breaker is it? Also I think the 9600 design is cooler and as far as I know they are more comfortable and fit better than the 9500.
Excellent video, do you think the SHP9600 scales as greatly as HD58x or HD6xx for that matter? I highly doubt that
Just got myself the shp9500 for gaming changing from an m50x, i hope its an upgrade (:
Much better soundstage with the SHP9500. Gaming should be good with them. I just couldn't stand the sibilance and lack of sub-bass with them while listening to music.
Two good phones idk what anyone says. M50x has that “brain-injection” type soundstage which I think works to its benefit, so long as you can wear them comfortably
@@grassmaster180 good choice of words brain-injection lol
For gaming yes, music no. I also use the 9500 for Overwatch and I can hear enemies coming towards me from behind and can pinpoint where they are accurately
My description of the 58X's soundstage is that it is a somewhat narrow trapezoidal one. Almost like a hallway that widens a bit with distance.
Interesting description 👍, yeah a bit narrow and not much forward. Maybe if Sennheiser would angled drivers and put them farther things would improve. For 170$ -20bucks, still hard to beat.
Awesome break down .. what dac would you recommend for the 9500?..
@C S thanks, never heard of it before.. I'll give it a try...
Fiio K3
To be fair the 9500 cost a lot less than the other 2. Sometime they go on sale for $60. So literally it's 2 different category. And I mean the 9500 and the 9600 have only a minor difference might as well get the 9500. Plus the its cheaper
WRONG you can run the 9500 and 9600 balanced, you can easily buy a cable for it!
Got my 9500 today 😊
What a great review, do you have any good preset for the HD58x, please?
Bass on 58x isn't earth shattering but more extended to deeper.
I have few music have very deep bass and 58X has no problem.
58X is definitely winner on voice even it's intact (clear and accurate)
His argument really leans toward the 58x. I own them. Things he didn't mention is ....You will want to modify them to actually get the sound he is talking about. All you really do is remove all the foam from them. And the earpads are total shit. Mine were already beginning to flatten after a couple months. The velour is also itchy and it is difficult to get after market pads that actually sound good on the 58x. I have no idea about the 9500s and the 9600s.
Listening on the Fidelio x2hr I found this reviewer to the most sibilant.
Josh himself is becoming legendary, IMO. His reviews are well thought out, well presented and well argued too. If he keeps this up he’s gonna end up on my Christmas card list. :)
The 58x has been my favorite audio device I have ever used
All Sennheiser HD 5 and 6 series need the foam behind and in front of the Driver for many reasons that have been alrealy talked on Forums... Even a small hair inside the driver can change the sound ... DIY heaven also makes some tests on that. Beyerdynamic owners also know that....
I have the 58X, DT880-600, listened to the HD600 and of course they are best in my opinion, other than bass which is better on 58X. Beyers need filter to lower the highs, lack upper mids, bass, very comfy headphones and decent resolution. I moded 58X with the 4-4.5mm hole in felt on the back of the drivers as per Solder Dude mod, and instead of foam I put ladies stockings, a bit thicker to get just a hair of a lift above 1k, but it is not a big difference comparing with the foam.
The only thing I wish for the 58X, is wider soundstage and better details. Other than for the money, it's really hard to find something better.
@@pliedtka 58x doesnt have better bass than HD 600 and HD660s ... More bass doesnt mean better. HD600 and HD660s have more clear more texture and progressive bass than 58x.
Thank you 💯 🙏🏻
FYI. SHP9500 and 9600 just dropped price on Amazon! $60 and $72!
The HD 598 SE and SR used to be reduced to $100 in Prime Day / Black Friday deals, similarly the X2 and X2HR had a similar hefty discount. I'd say they're the best under $200 when they go on sale but I've not been able to try any of these 3 in person. The 58X sound a little too bass heavy and suppressed in the mids compared to the 6XX and 600 from oluv / clavinetjunkie's comparison
9600 will be a better buy when the price starts dropping closer to USD$100.
Has anyone here tried coffee filters (or felt?) in front of the SHP9500 driver to tame that spiky treble? They are so cheap when on sale I’m tempted to try a pair.
I just received a pair of the SHP9600 today from Amazon, where I was able to find a seller offering a $30 discount coupon reducing the price to $99. Picked them to use with the XBOX as well as when I want a break from the clarity of the Sennheiser HD 560s.
how did it sound bro?
@@josaphcj7199 They sounds great. Enough detail to not be soft by any means, but an overall warmer sound than a pure reference headphone. I did find them a bit looser than I prefer for my size/shape of head though. So sometimes I feel like I need to hold them against my ears, and all of sudden there's a lot more sound there. Obviously, this won't apply to everyone. I'd recommend these to anyone, especially at the price point of the original post. Not sure what they cost "today."
I only trust you, Bad Guy and Zeos for headphone recommendations; and I love how you never oversell something like the other two sometimes do.
It almost seemed like a 58X FTW video at the midpoint, but then you covered where the SHPs outperform it at the end, and I'm glad that I'll be about fine with my 9500 in my use case scenario.
REALLY good comparison, man.
I love Zeos but I don't think he is the best for headphone recommendation, he is that one friend that will hype everything up for fun.
Joshua, I own the SUSVARA. I was wondering if you were still gonna do a full review on the SUSVARA. I also own the ARYA and HE1000se
what dac/amp do u use?
Thank you!
Im stuck between the Sennheiser HD599 or the HD58X for my vinyl setup. Any suggestions? Thanks!
I know I'm a bit late, but just get the HD58X; they are much more detailed. The HD599 is more of a casual listeners headphone for general media consumption i.e. movies, games, etc.
I saw that you remove the pad from the grill in the 58x.
Does your opinion is based after you remove or before?
There's a reason that the professional sound engineers who did the research and development on the headphones included it in the first place.
Please review Sivga Phoenix, Zeos loves this headphone🙏😍😍
Try to get Beyer T1.3 for a review Josh. I think you will love it.
Joshua, I own the SUSVARA. I was wondering if you were still gonna do a full review on the SUSVARA. I also own the ARYA and HE1000se. I was curious how you compared the SUSVARA to your favorite ARYA. G
if you are a bass lover, skip SHp series and jump to fidelio X1 X2 or X3 with more price for philips fans
*what about shp9600 vs HE400i 2020??*