OPEN-BACK VS. CLOSED-BACK HEADPHONES 🎧

You decided to invest in a high-quality pair of headphones. You did your research on audiophiles’ favorite brands, price points, and looks, and now you’re ready to close the deal. Not quite yet! You’ll probably still find yourself between two major categories in the high-quality headphones space: open-back x closed-back. Now what? 

That’s why we are here, to give you more in-depth information and the pros and cons of both open and closed-back headphones, so you can make an intelligent decision and don’t regret spending your money on a product that won’t satisfy your needs. So without further ado, let’s dive into the definitions and specifications of each of them!

OPEN-BACK

What does it mean: 

These headphones contain sound-generating drivers that are literally open to the outside world, hence, allowing some outside noise to mix with the headphones’ output. Because of it, they won’t block outside noise that well, so you can still hear everything that’s happening around you. Furthermore, they can also leak the sound out - depending on the volume you’re listening to - and isolation isn’t one of its features. The reason why many high-end headphones are open-back is that they deliver a more natural sound, similar to that of listening to a pair of speakers. Keep in mind that these headphones need close care since their electronic parts are more susceptible to moisture and heat. 

In which situations are these the best headphone options? 

If you are someone that thinks of music as a listening experience rather than just music itself. If you’re into the intricacies of the sound, and the feelings you’re getting from it, then open-back headphones are the right ones for you. If you will be listening to higher-quality audio files, they’re also the better option, as well as for mixing for a long period of time, when you have space to breathe and will feel less pressure put on your ears. And since we mentioned the fact that it can leak sound to the exterior world, these are definitely more recommended for an at-home listening experience. 

Check our great selection of open-back headphones

CLOSED-BACK

What does it mean: 

These headphones are made for one thing and one thing only: to isolate you from the outside world, and from most external ambient noise, as much as possible. Since they’re fully sealed around the back, they usually have bigger ear cups and can be a bit heavier. These are usually the go-to options for those working with music production because they allow for more critical listening. And because of all the features mentioned above, closed-back headphones won’t give you the same live music effect, rather isolating you with your music, which can be a big plus!

In which situations are these the best headphone options? 

As already mentioned, if you work with music production or recording, these are great options, because they allow you to listen to yourself without extra noise being picked up. If you’re someone who doesn’t want to be bothered by outside noise when commuting or being in crowded spaces, closed-back headphones are definitely a better option so you don’t get distracted from your listening experience. 

Check our great selection of closed-back headphones

So after reading and understanding more about both categories, define the two major points: where you’ll be using your new headphones (home, recording studio, crowded spaces), and how you like to experience music (live concert style or completely isolated from the ambient you are in). Once you tackle those two questions, you’ll be able to make an educated decision for a smart investment! Send us a picture of you with your new pair of headphones and let us know how amazing the music is sounding to you!  

If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to contact us through the chat right here at the bottom-right of the page!