If you’re looking for headphones to use while mixing, open-back headphones are an excellent option.
Not only do they provide a wider soundstage and more accurate representation of sound, but they also prevent the buildup of pressure inside the ear cups, making them more comfortable for extended listening sessions.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of using open-back headphones for mixing and recommend some of the best models on the market.
Benefits of Open Back Headphones for Mixing
Enhanced Soundstage
Open-back headphones have a perforated outer ear cup that allows sound to escape, creating a more open and natural soundstage. This is particularly useful when mixing, as it allows you to hear each individual instrument or sound more clearly and in relation to the others in the mix.
Accurate Sound Reproduction
Because open-back headphones allow sound to escape, there is less resonance inside the ear cups. This results in a more accurate representation of sound, particularly in the mid and high-frequency ranges. This makes open-back headphones an ideal choice for mixing, as it allows you to hear the nuances of the mix more clearly.
Comfort
The perforated ear cups of open-back headphones allow air to circulate, preventing the buildup of pressure that can occur with closed-back headphones. This makes them more comfortable for extended listening sessions, which is particularly important when mixing.
Top Open-Back Headphones for Mixing 2023
1# Sennheiser HD 600
- Lightweight aluminum voice coils ensure excellent...
- Neodymium ferrous magnets maintain optimum...
- Sophisticated design, elegantly finished in black...
- High quality open metal mesh earpiece covers
| Brand | Sennheiser Consumer Audio |
| Form Factor | Over Ear + Open back |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Special Feature | Lightweight |
The Sennheiser HD 600 is a favorite among audiophiles and professionals alike. It features an open-back design, neodymium ferrous magnet systems, and aluminum voice coils for exceptional sound quality. The ear cups are padded with velour for comfort and the headphones come with a detachable cable for easy replacement.
Pros:
- The lightweight design makes it comfortable to wear for extended periods
- Aluminum voice coils provide excellent transient response for clear audio reproduction
- Neodymium ferrous magnets maintain sensitivity and dynamic range
- Open metal mesh earpiece covers deliver high-quality sound
- Detachable, Kevlar-reinforced copper cable ensures low handling noise
Cons:
- Wired connectivity limits mobility compared to wireless headphones
- Only one included accessory (adaptor to 1/4″ (6.3 mm)) may not be enough for some users’ needs
- The over-ear design may not be suitable for those who prefer on-ear or in-ear headphones
- Higher price point compared to some other models in the market
- Not as portable as some other options due to its size and design
2# Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
- Open over-ear headphones, ideal for professional...
- Perfect for studio applications thanks to their...
- The soft, circumaural and replaceable velour ear...
- Hard-wearing, durable and robust workmanship -...
| Brand | Beyerdynamic |
| Form Factor | On Ear + open back |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Material | Plastic |
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is another popular choice for mixing. It features a wide frequency response range and a spacious open-back design for accurate sound reproduction. The ear cups are padded with soft velour and the headphones come with a single-sided cable for convenience.
Pros:
- Open over-ear design provides a spacious and natural soundstage
- Transparent sound with strong bass and clear treble, ideal for professional use
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended listening sessions
- Circumaural velour ear pads provide a soft and breathable fit
- Durable construction with high-quality materials
- Made in Germany with reliable workmanship
- Comes with a practical single-sided coiled cable for easy use in the studio
- Includes a carrying bag and 1/8″ to 1/4″ adapter for added convenience
Cons:
- Open design may not provide enough isolation in noisy environments
- Sound signature may not be suitable for casual listening or bass-heavy music
- Coiled cable may be too long or bulky for portable use
- On-ear design may not fit securely for all users
3# AKG K712 Pro
- Over-ear design maximum wearing comfort for long...
- Sophisticated open technology for spacious and...
- Improved low-end performance by 3dB for more...
- Revolutionary flat wire voice coil for incredible...
| Brand | AKG |
| Model Name | K712 Pro |
| Form Factor | Over Ear+Open back |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
The AKG K712 Pro is a high-end option for audiophiles and professionals. It features an open back design, flat-wire voice coils, and powerful neodymium magnets for exceptional sound quality. The ear cups are padded with genuine leather for comfort and the headphones come with two detachable cables for flexibility.
Pros:
- Comfortable over-ear design with premium leather materials
- Detachable cable for easy replacement or customization
- Replaceable earpads for extended use
- High sensitivity for easy driving with low-power devices
- Wide frequency response for accurate sound reproduction
- High maximum input power for handling higher volumes
Cons:
- Open-back design may not be suitable for noisy environments
- High sensitivity may lead to background noise from low-quality sources
- High impedance may require an amplifier for optimal volume
- Long cable may be inconvenient for portable use
- Headphones may feel heavy and bulky for extended use.
4#Audio-Technica ATH-R70x
- High-efficiency magnets and pure alloy magnetic...
- Carbon composite resin improves structural...
- Acoustically transparent, aluminum honeycomb-mesh...
- Breathable fabric earpads and improved wing...
| Model Name | AUD ATH-R70X |
| Form Factor | Over Ear+ open back |
| Connectivity Technology | Wired |
| Included Components | With Bag |
The Audio-Technica ATH-R70x is a newer addition to the open back headphone market, but it has quickly gained popularity among professionals. It features an open back design, high-efficiency magnets, and proprietary 45mm drivers for exceptional sound quality. The ear cups are padded with breathable fabric for comfort and the headphones come with two detachable cables for convenience.
Pros:
- Large 45mm drivers for accurate sound reproduction
- High sensitivity for easy driving with low-power devices
- High maximum input power for handling higher volumes
- Wide frequency response for detailed audio reproduction
- Lightweight design for comfortable extended use
- Detachable cable for easy replacement or customization
- Straight cable type for convenient studio use
- Comes with a carrying pouch for transport and protection
Cons:
- High impedance may require an amplifier for optimal volume
- May not be suitable for casual listening due to accuracy-focused tuning
- Straight cable may be inconvenient for portable use
- No in-line remote or microphone for phone calls or voice control
FAQS
Are open back headphones good for mixing?
Yes, open back headphones are good for mixing as they provide a more natural and accurate soundstage, allowing for better mixing decisions.
Are open back headphones better for music?
It depends on personal preference and the type of music being listened to. Open back headphones can provide a more natural and spacious sound, but closed back headphones can provide more isolation and bass response.
Are open back headphones better for vocals?
Open back headphones can be better for vocals as they provide a more natural and accurate representation of the singer’s voice, allowing for better monitoring and mixing decisions.
Can open-back headphones have bass?
Yes, open back headphones can have bass. However, they may not have as much bass response as closed back headphones due to their design.
Do open-back headphones leak noise?
Yes, open back headphones can leak noise due to their design. This means that people around the user can hear what they are listening to, making them less ideal for use in quiet or public environments.
Why are open back headphones expensive?
Open back headphones can be expensive due to their design and the materials used to create a more natural and accurate soundstage.
Why do people like open back headphones?
People like open back headphones because they provide a more natural and spacious soundstage, allowing for a more enjoyable and immersive listening experience. They can also provide better monitoring and mixing capabilities for music professionals.
Conclusion
Open-back headphones are an excellent choice for mixing, providing enhanced soundstage, accurate sound reproduction, and comfort for extended listening sessions. The Sennheiser HD 600, Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, AKG K712 Pro, and Audio-Technica ATH-R70x are all great options for audiophiles and professionals.
