Is the Sennheiser HD 560S better than the Philips SHP9500?

In most cases, yes: the Sennheiser HD 560S is the stronger overall headphone. It generally offers more accurate, neutral tuning, better technical performance, and stronger bass extension than the Philips SHP9500, so it’s usually the better pick if sound quality is the priority.

That said, the SHP9500 still makes sense if you want a cheaper option and a very easy-to-drive headphone. It has a 32-ohm impedance, so it’s easier to drive from standard devices than the 120-ohm HD 560S, and its looser clamp can be more comfortable for some listeners, though it may fit less securely on smaller heads.

So the short version is: choose the HD 560S for better sound; choose the SHP9500 if price, easy drivability, or a looser fit matter more.