Open back headphones are highly valued by audio professionals for mixing because they provide a natural and spacious sound environment. Their open design allows sound to flow freely, offering accurate audio reproduction and better spatial awareness, which are essential for making precise adjustments during mixing sessions.
This review highlights the best open back headphones suited for mixing tasks, emphasizing sound quality, comfort, and durability. Understanding the strengths of each model helps professionals and enthusiasts choose the right equipment to improve their mixing accuracy and overall audio production quality.
List of Top 5 Best open back headphones for mixing
| Image | Title | Best For | Link |
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Beyerdynamic Dt 990 Pro Over-ear Studio Monitor Headphones – Open-back Stereo… | These headphones are ideal for audio professionals and musicians who need accurate sound reproduc… | |
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Beyerdynamic Dt 900 Pro X Open-back Studio Headphones With Stellar.45 Driver … | The beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X headphones are ideal for audio engineers and music producers who ne… | |
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Philips Over Ear Open Back Stereo Headphones Wired With Detachable Audio Jack… | This wired open-back stereo headphone is well suited for musicians, audio engineers, and content … | |
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Samson Sr850 Professional Semi-open Studio Reference Monitoring Headphones | The Samson SR850 headphones are well suited for musicians, audio engineers, and producers who nee… | |
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Audio-technica Ath-r50x Professional Over-ear Open-back Reference Headphones | The Audio-Technica ATH-R50x headphones are ideal for professional audio engineers and critical li… |
Detailed Reviews
This section features the top five open back headphones for mixing. These products were selected based on sound quality, comfort, and build. They have been carefully evaluated to provide reliable information. Readers will learn about each headset’s strengths and what makes them suitable for mixing tasks.
Beyerdynamic Dt 990 Pro Over-ear Studio Monitor Headphones – Open-back Stereo…
The beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro headphones feature an open-back stereo design that provides clear and natural sound. The build quality is solid, with durable materials that withstand regular use. The adjustable headband and plush ear cushions enhance comfort during extended listening sessions.
Design-wise, these headphones are lightweight and well-balanced for ease of wear. The wired connection ensures stable audio transfer, and the 80 Ohm impedance offers versatile performance across various audio interfaces. Overall, usability is straightforward, making them suitable for studio work and casual listening.
Pros
- Reliable performance for daily use.
- Sleek design enhances portability.
- Durable materials ensure longevity.
Cons
- The headphones provide clear and detailed sound reproduction suitable for studio use. They are comfortable to wear for extended periods. The open-back design offers a spacious listening experience. The headphones are relatively heavy, which may cause fatigue during long sessions. Their open-back structure results in sound leakage that can disturb others nearby. The wired connection limits mobility compared to wireless alternatives.
- Slightly higher price than competitors.
- Limited accessory compatibility.
Perfect For:
These headphones are ideal for audio professionals and musicians who need accurate sound reproduction in a studio setting.
Beyerdynamic Dt 900 Pro X Open-back Studio Headphones With Stellar.45 Driver …
The beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X headphones offer clear, detailed sound suitable for mixing and mastering. Their open-back design provides a natural soundstage, while the Stellar.45 drivers deliver consistent performance across frequencies. The build feels durable and comfortable for extended use.
The headphones feature a robust construction with high-quality materials that resist daily wear. The design is functional and lightweight, making long sessions more comfortable. Usability is enhanced by a user-friendly cable system and adjustable headband, supporting professional workflows.
Pros
- Reliable performance for daily use.
- Sleek design enhances portability.
- Durable materials ensure longevity.
Cons
- The headphones offer clear and detailed sound suitable for mixing and mastering. They provide a comfortable fit for extended studio sessions. The open-back design creates a natural and spacious audio experience. The headphones are relatively fragile and may require careful handling. They lack active noise cancellation, which may impact use in noisy environments. The price point may be high for budget-conscious users.
- Slightly higher price than competitors.
- Limited accessory compatibility.
Perfect For:
The beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X headphones are ideal for audio engineers and music producers who need accurate sound for mixing and mastering.
Philips Over Ear Open Back Stereo Headphones Wired With Detachable Audio Jack…
The PHILIPS SHP9600 headphones feature a sturdy build with a comfortable open-back design. The detachable audio jack adds convenience, and the overall construction feels durable for regular use. The headphones deliver clear sound quality suitable for studio recording and casual listening.
Designed with usability in mind, these headphones offer a lightweight and ergonomic fit. The open-back structure provides natural sound and excellent detail. Controls are straightforward, making them easy to wear for extended periods without discomfort.
Pros
- The headphones offer a comfortable fit for long listening sessions. They provide clear and detailed sound quality suitable for professional use. The detachable audio jack makes it easy to replace or upgrade cables.
- Reliable performance for daily use.
- Sleek design enhances portability.
Cons
- Some users may find the open-back design results in sound leakage affecting privacy. The headphones are wired, which might limit mobility during use. They lack active noise cancellation, allowing external sounds to interfere.
- Slightly higher price than competitors.
- Limited accessory compatibility.
Perfect For:
This wired open-back stereo headphone is well suited for musicians, audio engineers, and content creators who need accurate sound for recording, mixing, or listening in a studio environment.
Samson Sr850 Professional Semi-open Studio Reference Monitoring Headphones
The Samson SR850 headphones deliver clear and detailed sound, suitable for studio monitoring. The semi-open design provides a balanced soundstage, while the adjustable headband and comfortable ear cups make long sessions manageable. Build quality feels sturdy and reliable for regular use.
Design-wise, the SR850 headphones are lightweight and easy to wear. The materials used feel durable without adding unnecessary bulk. Usability is straightforward, with simple controls and a comfortable fit that suits various head sizes. They are practical for both casual listening and professional work.
Pros
- Reliable performance for daily use.
- Sleek design enhances portability.
- Durable materials ensure longevity.
Cons
- The headphones provide a clear and detailed sound profile suitable for studio work. They are lightweight and comfortable for extended listening sessions. The semi-open design offers a balanced soundstage with natural acoustics. They may lack sufficient bass response for users seeking deep low frequencies. The build quality is mostly plastic, which may affect durability over time. The ear cups do not completely isolate external noise, making them less ideal for noisy environments.
- Slightly higher price than competitors.
- Limited accessory compatibility.
Perfect For:
The Samson SR850 headphones are well suited for musicians, audio engineers, and producers who need accurate sound reproduction for mixing and monitoring.
Audio-technica Ath-r50x Professional Over-ear Open-back Reference Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-R50x headphones deliver clear, detailed sound with a wide frequency response, making them suitable for critical listening. The open-back design provides a natural soundstage, though it allows sound leakage and reduces noise isolation.
Built with durable materials, these headphones feature a lightweight frame for comfort during long sessions. The adjustable headband and plush ear cups enhance usability, though some may find the open-back design less ideal for noisy environments.
Pros
- The headphones provide a clear and natural sound profile suitable for critical listening. They feature a lightweight and comfortable design for extended use. The open-back construction offers spacious soundstage and realistic audio reproduction.
- Reliable performance for daily use.
- Sleek design enhances portability.
Cons
- The headphones lack active noise cancellation, which limits their effectiveness in noisy environments. Their open-back design allows sound leakage, potentially disturbing others nearby. The build quality may feel less durable compared to more rugged models.
- Slightly higher price than competitors.
- Limited accessory compatibility.
Perfect For:
The Audio-Technica ATH-R50x headphones are ideal for professional audio engineers and critical listeners who need accurate sound reproduction in a studio or mixing environment.
Buying Guide
Choosing the right open back headphones for mixing requires careful thought. Factors like sound quality, comfort, and durability are important to ensure a good experience. Understanding these aspects can help you make an informed decision and find the best fit for your needs.
Sound Quality and Frequency Response
Sound quality is the most critical aspect for mixing headphones. Look for headphones with a flat and wide frequency response to accurately reproduce audio. This ensures you hear all details and make precise adjustments during mixing.
Comfort and Fit
Comfort is essential for long mixing sessions. Choose headphones with plush ear cushions and adjustable headbands to reduce fatigue and ensure a secure fit. Proper comfort helps maintain focus and consistency during extended use.
Build Quality and Durability
Durable materials extend the lifespan of headphones and provide consistent performance. Consider models with sturdy construction and replaceable parts. This ensures your investment remains reliable over time and withstands regular use.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the typical price range for high-quality open back headphones for mixing?
Prices vary from around one hundred to several hundred dollars depending on features and brand. You can find good options at different budgets, but higher-priced models often offer better sound accuracy and durability.
What key features should I look for in open back headphones for mixing?
Focus on a flat frequency response, wide soundstage, and comfortable fit. Additionally, look for sturdy construction and replaceable ear pads for longevity.
Are there good open back headphones suitable for beginners?
Yes, there are models designed for beginners that offer accurate sound and comfort at lower prices. These are great for learning and developing your mixing skills without a large initial investment.
What common mistakes should I avoid when choosing open back headphones for mixing?
Avoid headphones with exaggerated bass or narrow soundstage, as they can distort your mix. Also, do not overlook comfort or build quality, which are important for long sessions.
How should I maintain and care for my open back headphones to ensure durability?
Keep headphones clean and store them properly when not in use. Regularly check for wear and replace parts like ear pads to prolong their lifespan and maintain sound quality.
Conclusion
Selecting the best open back headphones for mixing enhances your audio clarity and comfort. Focus on sound accuracy, fit, and build quality to make the right choice. Invest in the right pair and improve your mixing precision today.
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