Closed-Back Studio Monitors: Better Choice Or Overhyped?

Studio headphones are an essential tool for music producers, and there are two main types: closed-back and open-back. Closed-back headphones are better for recording as they prevent sound from leaking into the microphone, whereas open-back headphones are ideal for mixing as they offer a more natural and immersive soundstage. Both types of headphones have their advantages and disadvantages, and it is recommended to have both options for the ideal studio setup.

Closed-back headphones are better for recording

Closed-back headphones are ideal for recording because they prevent sound from leaking out the back of your headphones into your microphone. This is known as audio bleed or sound spill, and it can be a problem if your performer likes to monitor with some volume.

Closed-back headphones are also better at blocking out background noise, so you can still monitor your audio without completely tuning out what's happening around you. This is especially useful if you're recording in a busy studio or other noisy environments.

Additionally, closed-back headphones are more versatile than open-back headphones. They can be used for all studio-related tasks, including tracking, programming, editing, and mixing.

• Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: These headphones are well-known in the recording community and offer amazing value. They are comfortable, durable, and come with three different cable options, including a coiled one that can stretch up to 10 feet.
• Sony MDR-7506: These retro over-ears have been a studio mainstay thanks to their well-balanced sound and closed-back design. They have a touch of extra thump and rumble in their sound, but it doesn't overwhelm vocals and lead instruments.
• Audio-Technica ATH-M20x: These headphones offer good sound at a lower price. They have a flat, balanced mid-range response that reproduces voices and instruments clearly and accurately.

Open-back headphones are better for mixing

• Open-back headphones allow for better critical listening during the mixing stage of the creation process because they let you hear your music more naturally.
• Open-back headphones create a better representation of three-dimensional sound.
• Open-back headphones are more comfortable, especially for longer wear, as they are lighter.
• Open-back headphones are ideal for mixing music.
• Open-back headphones are great for picking up on phasing issues and placing individual tracks across the stereo spectrum.
• Open-back headphones are great for when you need to be quiet, for example, if you live in an apartment building or need to work late at night.
• Open-back headphones are easier to hear tiny details when mixing at low volumes.
• Open-back headphones are a closer experience to monitors.

While closed-back headphones are better for blocking out ambient noise and preventing sound leakage, open-back headphones are better for mixing due to their ability to create a more natural and three-dimensional sound.

Closed-back headphones are more versatile

Closed-back headphones are better for recording as they prevent sound from leaking into the microphone. They also offer a more "intimate" listening experience with increased bass perception and no distractions from the outside world. However, open-back headphones are generally considered better for mixing and mastering. This is because their design allows sound to travel out beyond your ears and into the natural space, creating a more accurate representation of three-dimensional sound.

While closed-back headphones are ideal for recording, they can also be used for mixing and monitoring. They are more versatile than open-back headphones as they can be used in a wider range of situations and environments. If you are looking for a pair of headphones that can be used for multiple purposes in the studio, closed-back headphones are a good option. They will allow you to record without sound leakage and also provide a level of isolation from external noise when mixing.

In addition, closed-back headphones tend to be more comfortable than open-back headphones, especially for long sessions. This is because the ear cups on closed-back headphones are usually larger and provide a more comfortable feel. They also tend to be lighter in weight, making them easier to wear for extended periods. This makes closed-back headphones a good choice if you need to wear them for long periods of time, whether for recording, mixing, or both.

Furthermore, closed-back headphones often have detachable cables, which can be useful for storage and travel. They also tend to be more durable and better built than open-back headphones, especially in the same price range. This means they are less likely to break and will last longer, making them a more versatile option in the long run.

Overall, while open-back headphones are preferred for mixing due to their more accurate sound representation, closed-back headphones are more versatile. They can be used for both recording and mixing, provide better isolation from external noise, and tend to be more comfortable and durable. If you are looking for a pair of headphones that can handle multiple tasks in the studio, closed-back headphones are a good choice.

Open-back headphones are more comfortable

When it comes to choosing between open-back and closed-back headphones, it's important to consider the specific use case and personal preferences. While closed-back headphones are generally better for recording due to their ability to block out background noise and prevent audio leakage, open-back headphones excel in mixing and critical listening applications. Here are some reasons why open-back headphones are more comfortable:

Lightweight and Comfortable

Open-back headphones tend to be lighter in weight compared to closed-back models due to the absence of a driver enclosure. This reduced weight results in less pressure on the crown of your head, making them more comfortable for extended periods of wear. The lightweight design also contributes to their overall comfort, ensuring that your head and neck don't feel fatigued even during long listening sessions.

Improved Airflow and Breathability

The built-in gaps in the outer housing of open-back headphones allow for better airflow and breathability. This design facilitates the free flow of air and sound through the earcups, reducing the buildup of air pressure around your ears. As a result, open-back headphones are less physically direct, making them a more comfortable option, especially for prolonged listening.

Spacious and Natural Soundstage

The open-back design allows sound to interact with the environment, creating a more immersive and natural soundstage. This results in a listening experience akin to having a private concert in your living room, as opposed to being in an isolated booth. The spacious and airy sound enhances the overall comfort of the listening experience, providing a pleasant and natural feel.

Accurate and Balanced Sound

Open-back headphones are known for their accurate and balanced sound reproduction. The open design allows most of the rearward sound to escape, preventing it from becoming trapped and causing unwanted distortions. This results in a clearer and more dynamically expressive sound compared to closed-back headphones. The spacious sonic canvas and improved instrument separation further enhance the overall listening experience, making it more comfortable and enjoyable.

Ideal for Mixing and Mastering

The accurate sound reproduction and natural soundstage of open-back headphones make them ideal for mixing and mastering applications. The ability to accurately hear the intricacies of your audio content ensures that you can make informed decisions during the mixing process. Additionally, the comfort provided by open-back headphones enables you to work for extended periods without experiencing fatigue or discomfort.

While open-back headphones offer superior comfort, it's important to consider the trade-offs. They are less effective at blocking out ambient noise and tend to leak sound, making them less suitable for noisy environments or situations where privacy is a concern. Ultimately, the decision between open-back and closed-back headphones depends on your specific needs and preferences.

Open-back headphones are more natural

Open-back headphones are ideal for mixing and mastering because they allow for better critical listening. Their design lets audio travel out beyond your ears and into the natural space, so you can hear your music more naturally.

The best open-back headphones are the Sennheiser HD 800 S. They have a balanced sound profile with an accurate mid-range response, ensuring vocals and lead instruments sound clear and accurate. Their treble response is generally flat, with a touch of extra mid-treble that adds presence to vocals.

Other great options include the HiFiMan Edition XS, which uses planar magnetic drivers to create an immersive, open, and natural-sounding soundstage, and the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO, which delivers more bass overall, so your music has more punch and warmth.

Open-back headphones are also more comfortable than closed-back headphones, making them ideal for long studio sessions. They are also less efficient in the low end, and models that overcome this tend to be pretty expensive and sometimes need dedicated amplifiers.

Frequently asked questions