The Package

The release version of the HE-560 ships in the same box as the pre-order version.


The connector and cable setup has been altered a bit as well. The new cable is thinner and has a woven jacket.

Closer Examination

The driver itself has not been altered significantly from the pre-order to the release version; however, some tuning elements, including baffles and pads, have been altered.


The headband is still incredibly comfy as it is one of the better constructions around.


The headphone's look changed from the pre-order to the release version, which is very unfortunate as the pre-order version looked glorious in its all-teak cups. The release version features plastic cups with ebony veneer, which also looks good, but aren't quite as brilliant as those all-wooden cups. The reason for the change was that some samples had issues with the wood cracking.


One of the things we commented on with the pre-order version were the pads. They were simply not firm enough to prevent one's ears from reaching the insides of the cups, making them slightly uncomfortable to wear. This has also been changed for the release version as the pads are now much firmer.