A Comprehensive Guide to Closed-Back vs. Open-Back Headphones: Pros and Cons

What’s up everyone, Zach with another blog post! 

We’ve all been there. Whether its for work or pleasure, we’re in the market for a new set of headphones. But what do you get? There are SO many options and with technology only becoming cheaper (well, theoretically. Thanks Bidenomics) it can be easy to be overwhelmed with what to pick. 

Don’t worry, you’re in the right place to answer that exact question. However, I start this answer with a question; What do I need them for? Tracking? Monitoring while I record/playback? Am I an audiophile who just lives to have heinously expensive audio equipment? I realize thats more than one question but you get the point.

When it comes to choosing the right headphones, understanding the differences between closed-back and open-back designs is essential. Both types offer unique advantages, making them suitable for different listening environments and personal preferences. In this post, we’ll explore the key differences between these two types of headphones, along with three pros and cons for each.

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Closed-Back Headphones: Immersive and Isolated Listening

Closed-back headphones feature ear cups that are completely sealed off from the outside, preventing sound from leaking out and external noise from getting in. This design is often favored by those who prioritize isolation and focused listening. Like headphones for tracking/monitoring. The headphones above are the Beyerdynamic DT 770

Pros:

1. 1. Superior Noise Isolation:
      Closed-back headphones are excellent at blocking out ambient noise, making them ideal for use in noisy environments like public transport or busy offices. This isolation allows you to focus entirely on your music or audio content without distractions.

1. 1. Enhanced Bass Response:
      The closed design tends to create a more pronounced bass response. The sealed ear cups trap the low frequencies, resulting in a fuller, more impactful bass experience. This is particularly beneficial for genres like hip-hop, EDM, and rock.

1. 1. Privacy and Minimal Sound Leakage:
      Closed-back headphones prevent sound from leaking out, ensuring that others around you won’t hear what you’re listening to. This makes them a great choice for use in the studio while recording or of course out in the world on a bus or maybe in the library.

Cons:

• • Reduced Soundstage:
    The enclosed design of closed-back headphones can create a more confined soundstage, which means the audio may feel less spacious and immersive. This can be a drawback for those who enjoy a more natural and open sound. While this is true, its important to know that ‘reduced’ is relative. For example the Beyerdynamic headphones have a very wide sounding soundstage whereas some Audio Technicas do not (IMO) 

• • Potential for Ear Fatigue:
    Due to their tight seal and the build-up of pressure inside the ear cups, closed-back headphones can cause ear fatigue during extended listening sessions. The lack of ventilation can also lead to warmer ears, which may be uncomfortable over time. This is probably one of the more ambiguous variables as it can be better or worse for people with bigger or smaller heads or ears.
    
    1. 1. Side note, something to think about is the pad material. I personally prefer fabric over leather as its less sweaty for me when doing long sessions

• • Heavier and Bulkier:
    Closed-back headphones are often larger and heavier than open-back models, making them less convenient for portable use. Their bulkier design can also be less comfortable for some users, especially when worn for long periods.
    
    1. 1. This also depends on the brand and construction and headband. Once again, the Beyerdynamic 770’s break the mold by being incredibly lightweight!

If you cant tell by now, the Beyerdynamic 770 PRO’s are my absolute favorite set of headphones at the moment. Followed closely by the SONY MDR-7506. With the SONY headphones being only $99 you really cant beat the value.

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Open-Back Headphones: Natural and Airy Sound

Open-back headphones have ear cups that allow air and sound to pass through, creating a more open and natural listening experience. This design is popular among audiophiles and professionals who prioritize sound quality and accuracy.

Pros:

1. 1. Expansive Soundstage:
      The open design of these headphones provides a wide and spacious soundstage, allowing you to perceive the positioning of instruments and vocals with greater clarity. This makes them ideal for genres like classical, jazz, and live recordings.

1. 1. Comfortable for Long Listening Sessions:
      Open-back headphones typically offer better ventilation, reducing the buildup of heat and pressure around your ears. This makes them more comfortable for extended listening sessions, as your ears stay cooler and more relaxed.

1. 1. More Natural Sound Reproduction:
      Open-back headphones tend to deliver a more accurate and natural sound, closely resembling how audio would be heard in a real-world environment. This makes them a top choice for audio professionals, such as mixing and mastering engineers.

Cons:

1. 1. Poor Noise Isolation:
      The open design means that external noise can easily enter, and your music can leak out. This makes them unsuitable for use in noisy environments or in situations where you need to avoid disturbing others.

1. 1. Weaker Bass Response:
      Due to the lack of a sealed enclosure, open-back headphones often have a less pronounced bass response. While the bass is still present, it’s usually more subtle and less impactful compared to closed-back headphones.

1. 1. Limited Portability:
      Open-back headphones are generally designed for indoor use in quiet environments, making them less practical for on-the-go listening. They are also more fragile and prone to damage from exposure to dust and moisture.

I highly recommend Grado for open backs. They’ve been around for a long time and make very high quality stuff. Even their entry level headphones, the SR60x‘s offer a luxurious listening experience for only $99. If you’re in the market to try out some open back headphones that would be my recommendation! It only gets better from there!