When it comes to audio mixing, there are two main types of headphones to choose from: open-back and closed-back. Both types of headphones have their own advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to choose the right type for your needs.
Open-back Headphones
Open-back headphones have a more natural soundstage than closed-back headphones. This is because the sound waves are not trapped inside the headphone cups, but can instead travel freely through the air. This gives you a more accurate representation of how your mix will sound in the real world.
Open-back headphones are also more comfortable to wear for long periods of time. This is because they allow your ears to breathe, and they don’t create as much pressure on your head.
However, open-back headphones have one major disadvantage: they leak sound (AKA ‘bleed’). This means that other people around you can hear what you’re listening to, even if you turn the volume down. This can be a problem if you’re trying to mix in a quiet environment. Or If you are wearing headphones while recording into a microphone.
Closed-back Headphones
Closed-back headphones, on the other hand, do not leak sound. This makes them ideal for use in noisy environments, such as when you’re traveling or working in a public place. The lack of headphone ‘bleed’ (or sound leak) makes them suited for listening while recording at the same time.
Closed-back headphones also tend to be more durable than open-back headphones. This is because they have a solid construction that can withstand more wear and tear.
However, closed-back headphones do not have the same natural soundstage as open-back headphones. This is because the sound waves are trapped inside the headphone cups, which can create a more “muffled” sound.
Which should you use?
So, which type of headphones should you choose? It depends on your needs and preferences. If you need a headphone that will give you an accurate representation of your mix, then open-back headphones are the way to go. If you need a headphone that is more portable and durable, then closed-back headphones are a better choice.
Personally I own both open-back and closed-back headphones. I use the open-back pair (AKG K702’s) for mixing and the closed-back pair (Beyer-dynamic DT770 Pro’s) for recording. This is the ideal situation if your budget allows.
Here are some popular brands and models of open-back and closed-back headphones:
- Open-back headphones:
- AKG K702
- Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X
- Sennheiser HD600
- Closed-back headphones:
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
- Sennheiser HD280 Pro
If you’re on a budget, there are still plenty of great options available. Here are a few popular budget-friendly headphones:
- Open-back headphones:
- Superlux HD681
- Samson SR850
- Philips SHP9500
- Closed-back headphones:
- Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
- AKG K240 Studio
- Sennheiser HD212 Pro
No matter what your budget or needs, there is a pair of headphones out there that is perfect for you. Do some research and listen to a few different models to find the ones that sound best to you. With a little bit of effort, you’ll be sure to find the perfect pair of headphones to help you take your mixing to the next level.
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