8 Best Open-Back Headphones For Mixing in 2022
The open-back headphone has a unique design that provides a mesmerizing listening experience. Having an open-back, which is clear from the term open-back, allows the free passage of air from air to the speaker element. Below are some of the 8 Best open-back headphones for mixing in 2022, that will do the job in the blink of an eye.
This characteristic of the open-back headphone does not let air pressure build up. This means no reflection and echoes in the headphone and it provides a bigger soundstage. That delivers the feeling of listing to the speaker in your studio rather than headphones. That is why it is considered ideal for mixing and mastering.
Most professional and expensive headphones have open-back. They are mostly used professionally where a decision like sound level adjustment and critical panning. The only trade-off is a less isolation level that makes it less suitable for tracking and more ideal for tasks like mastering and mixing.
Most of the time the headphone for music listing is more commonly marketed and displayed than for mixing. As mix engineers, people want to hear the truest, flattest, most accurate representation of the sound source we are trying to listen to so that way we can accurately manipulate within the stereo space.
If you are hearing a lot of accentuated bass because of the closed-back headphone design, then you might end up cutting a lot of bass out of the mix and end up with a mix that isn’t as basic as it needs to be.
So for the mixing, the open-back headphones shine. They typically have a grille on the outside of the headphone to allow for some of the energy created by the speakers in your headphone to escape. Hence, it gives the true sound of the original sound source. So for mixing, the open-back headphones will be a true representation of what you’re trying to listen to and make it much easier to mix.
The choice of which headphones to buy can be a little overwhelming because this choice will affect your professional life and future decision-making. That’s why we have brought you the list of the 8 best open-back headphones that are ideal for mixing so you can choose the headphone that best meets your needs.
List of 8 Best open-back Headphones for Mixing:
1. Sennheiser HD 600:
Professional Studio Quality Headset:
Sennheiser has been making headphones for a long time and has a great deal of experience under its belt. Sennheiser HD 600 Open-Back Professional Headphone is one of the best Open-Back headphones on the market. Their studio-quality headphones are aimed toward professional musicians.
These headphones are one of the most expensive and professional headphones on the list but the price is worth the benefit it offers.
This product gives amazingly natural and on-the-point sound quality as compared to its predecessors and has an amazing design.
Wide Frequency Range:
It came with a lightweight aluminum voice coil which guarantees an amazing transient response. Neodymium magnets ensure with low-end pitch sound and do not extend that it feels exaggerated. The impressive range of frequency response from 12 to 39000 Hz help to detect even low frequencies and noises in the audio.
A wide range of frequencies enables you to create a great mix, so you don’t have to compromise on quality and frequencies when using these headphones.
3m Long Cable:
The impedance of 300Ohms makes sure you don’t have distortion sound at a louder sound level, so you have clear sound quality even at a high sound level.3.5 / 6.3 mm stereo jack plug gives you the freedom to connect with any device in your studio. it comes with a 3m cable length slowing free mobility so you don’t have to sit near the device. It comes in black color and the design is also beautiful. The over-ear design also gives a comfortable wearing experience.
Quality Sound and Frequency:
HD 600 provides high sound quality due to its aluminum voice coil and Neodymium magnet. The low impedance of 300 Ohms enables it to give clear and clear sound quality even when listening to a high level of sound. The wide frequency range of 12 to 39k Hz allows this headphone user to make an accurate decision about frequency and sound quality when mixing. Due to all these characteristics, it provides an elite and professional level of performance.
Durability:
HD 600 headphones are very durable and last longer. Another economic advantage it provides is that every part is replaceable and can be found on the internet. Even if something got damaged then you just need to replace that part rather than buy a new Replacement headphone. it is lost weight due to its strong and fine plastic material but is sturdy. The blue marble finish makes it look more beautiful yet professional.
Comfortability:
Another factor that these headphones offer is comfortability. The earpads that come with these headphones are very comfortable and fit very easily on the ears. The inner form is very plush and soft and the user can wear it for a long session without any discomfort. The open-back of the headphones makes sure of the flow of the air, so no sweating and irritation so you only focus on the quality of your mixing.
Bottom Line:
If you want a headphone for professional purposes and don’t mind spending some extra bucks then we will recommend Sennheiser HD 600 Open Back Professional Headphone. The premium sound quality and wide frequency range are ideal for mixing purposes. The earpad is so comfortable that your ears will be comfortable even for long recording and music sessions.
2. AKG Pro Audio K702:
Open-back Over-ear Headset:
AKG is another popular brand in the audio equipment industry. This company has been operational for over a decade and produces one of the best headphones and microphones. Their headphones and microphones have been the standard equipment in many studios around the globe.AKG Pro Audio K702 is Open-Back, over the ear headphones are one of the models of the AKG Pro Series.
Nice and Wide Soundstage:
With AKG Pro K702 you can have a large soundstage as expected from the Open-Back headphone, a Wide frequency range, and high volume levels due to its Varimotion two-layer diaphragm. One unique feature is that it has a semi-open-back which means the user can enjoy both the power full bass as compared to other Open-Back and also the natural quality of open-back headphones.
Nice Frequency Response:
It has a flat-wire voice coil that is new technology. The flat coil moves in under the strong magnetic field that allows the diaphragm of K702 to produce accurate quality audio signals with accuracy even at a low frequency.
It also offers a frequency range of 10Hz to 39.8K which allows you to make a precise decision during the mixing process and have very low distortion.
Premium Design:
The thickness of the center of the diaphragm is 80 micrometers which handles the high range frequency. The 40-micrometer thickness to the parameters of the diaphragm allows bass frequencies.
The design is also premium, the minimalist design gives it the modern look. The leather strap gives it equilibrium and look. The material is strong and durable.
Premium Sound:
AKG Pro Audio K702 gives premium audio quality thanks to its Varimotion two-layer diaphragm that improves its frequency quality. Flat coil technology allows it to perform even at low-frequency ranges. The impedance of 62 Ohms allows it to perform better on the high sound level and avoid distortion. It is the best choice if you want to use it for mixing and mastering purposes.
The Wide frequency range of 10Hz to 39.8K allows you to hear even beyond normal human hearing so you can have accurate frequencies.
Good Enough Bass:
Open-Back headphones are not considered good for bass due to their open-back. But thanks to the innovative semi-open back design the K702 gives a good performance as compared to other open-back headphones and also gives natural sound as open-back headphones should. The 40-micrometer thick perimeter of the diaphragm gives the power to give punchy bass and sound.
Stylish and Comfy:
Pro K702 has a minimalist look when coming to design which is stylish and demands modern taste. The 3D ear pads are designed to give users a comfortable experience that,s why it is easier to wear them even for long sessions. The headband is flexible so it can handle the average physical stress that headphones might have to experience in day-to-day work.
Even though the design is minimalistic but it is well made and doesn’t have any weak points that could cause issues since adding to its durability factor.
Bottom Line:
We recommend AKG Pro Audio K702 if you want to make quality mixing and also want some quality base. The Semi open-back design and the flat voice coil will make your money worth it and will give you a wonderful experience.
3. Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO:
Dynamic Headphone:
Beyerdynamic is another audio equipment producing company that is functional and produces many headphones and mics throughout the years. This company was the first that produces the dynamic headphone named DT 48. the first broadcasting microphone was also produced by this company M 19.
Competitive Headphone:
Beyerdynamic is a German company. DT 990 PRO is one of their best open-back headphones.990 Pro is the best quality and competitive headphone because it has competed against the Sennheiser HD 600 another legendary headphone.
Nice Sound Quality:
DT 990,s sound quality is a very great sound quality that is clear and natural. The open-back gives it a wide sound stage. it gives 3 dimensional sound accuracy which is why it is used by many for gaming apart from mixing and mastering.
Perfect Frequency Range:
It has a frequency range of the lowest at 5 Hz and the highest at 35 kHz.The 5 Hz frequency range is the lowest out of all the headphones on this list so you can focus on the smallest detail. The open-back feature makes it ideal for mixing. it is a good substitute for Sennheiser HD 600 at the low price range.
Easy Mobility:
It has a 3m long detachable cable that gives you easy mobility. The wire is coiled so the entanglement issue that comes with long wire is out of the question. Connectivity on these headphones is also easy it comes in 3.5mm and 6.5mm.3.5 mm connection pin so you can connect to your laptop, computer, and smartphone and 6.5 mm so so can connect with your studio equipment
Soft and Comfortable Earpads:
In terms of design, it is also an attractive headphone so it will attract attention to your gaming setup or studio. The headband is a little rigid giving you durability but does not apply any pressure on your head.
The soft head pad made it more comfortable and more important it is detachable so you can replace it after a year or two. The same can be said for ear pads; they are soft and easy on the ear and can be replaced when desired.
3 Dimensional Accuracy:
We will recommend this headphone to the person and audio engineers who want to use it not only for mixing, and mastering but also for gaming. It gives 3 dimensional accurate sound precision adding to your gaming experience. The wide frequency range also enables you to amazing frequency accuracy and the open-back feature provides natural and dynamic sound quality.
Amazing Sound:
It gives you amazing sound quality as the premium and professional headphones should provide. The 250 Ohms of impedance allows you to have good audio quality even at high audio levels and enable you to the new world of creativity and entertainment. The wide soundstage aids professionals when mixing or doing a podcast.
Economic:
One of the best things about these headphones is that it is economic in many ways. First is a little less expensive than most open-back headphones in its class. Second, all of the parts are replaceable and making them easy to clean and repair.
Removable and Replaceable Parts:
Third, even if you want to change any part it is easy to find in the market so availability is not an issue. Also, it came with a bag that might not cushion the fall but it saves it from scratch when storing or traveling so its beauty lasts longer. It has 3 dimension sound accuracy which is very helpful for gamers. so you don’t need to buy a separate headphone if you like gaming DT pro 990 got you covered.
Comfortability:
It is comfortable to use with the coiled wire and makes it easy to move your head. so no fear of wire getting pulled when picking something from the ground which is an issue with some headphones. The earpads are also comfortable and you can use them for a long session. The free passage of air makes it even more comfortable on the ear and has no pressure on the eardrums.
4. Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR:
Great Frequency Range:
Philips Audio is another well-known company known for manufacturing quality headphones, microphones, and much other electronic equipment .it is a well-known brand around the globe. They have produced many innovative products and Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR is one of them. Having an open-back feature makes it a good choice for mixing but provides excellent sound quality and a great frequency range.
Best for Mixing and Editing:
They give natural quality and a wider range of frequency of 5 to 40 kilo Hz that gives you the freedom when editing, podcasting, or mixing to have on-point audio quality. The impedance of this headphone is 30 ohms which means you don’t need any additional amplifier so you can use it with any device.it has a Stereo 3.5 Mm pin that is a universal pin for many devices like smartphones, laptops, and many other common devices as well as 1/4-Inch for high-end studio equipment.
Flexible Headset:
The powerful neodymium drivers enable it to perform with a neutral sound. The 50 mm drivers utilize a well-balanced bass and perfect high frequency. X2HR has innovative layered motion control. The LMC that has a layer of damping gel makes these layers make the flexible diaphragm absorb any exaggerated frequencies giving smooth audio quality. Build quality is also great.
Nice Build Quality:
Although mostly X2HR is made of plastic material. it is well made and has a metal reinforced touch to it. The Head strap is made of leather providing great support to the head and evenly distributing the weight around the head. comes with a free cable management clip for avoiding cabal entanglement.
Comfortable and Fit:
Earpads are comfortable and fit perfectly on the ear and head. Material is also well built with Deluxe memory form adding to the comfortability factor. The wire is detachable and has a 3.5mm pin on both ends. The most important thing is that the earpads are detachable and can be replaced.
Premium Audio Quality:
We will recommend these headphones if you want to have premium quality headphones and have a medium budget then these headphones are for you. Low impedance makes it easy to use with small devices and smartphones. The wide frequency range and open Back make it ideal for editing, and mixing purposes can be used for gaming.
Good Audio:
Philips open-back headphones deliver excellent sound quality due to their layered motion-controlled technology. The 5 to 40Hz frequency range allows you to have an accurate sound frequency so you can have a good mining experience. not only that but a 50 mm neodymium magnet and open back feature gives a natural and smooth sound.
Comfortability:
Comfortability is something that this headphone has got you covered. it has a leather hammock for even distribution of the weight. Earpads are also very plushy because they are made of deluxe memory that fits perfectly on the head and gently makes long editing or mixing sessions comfortable. The wire is also detachable so storing is also easy. Open-back makes sure there is enough air so you do not have sweaty ears.
Bottom Line:
Design is very appealing and going to attract a lot of attention from your friends and family. It looks a little bulky but modern in design. Earpads, Headpads all look amazing and are black.
5. Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X:
Flourished Version with Nice Finish:
AD700X is the new version of the Audio Technica AD700. This headphone is known as a comfortable, well-priced option, particularly with gamers. In terms of the build quality for a headphone, that’s just a bit over $100 on US street prices, this is fantastically built headphones.
The latest version AD700X has a more flourished design and the fit and finish are much improved. Therefore, it is super impressive for the price. And They come up with comfortable and flat ear pads. Also, the drivers and earpads are angled.
3D Wing Headband Support System:
On the subject of comfort, it’s worth noting that the fancy 3D wing headband mechanism that most of the audio Technica headphones have, is quite comfortable on these headphones. Besides, these headphones are so light and are like stabilizers for your head. That means you can use these headphones for long sessions without worrying about the pain or sweat.
Very Nice Texture and Vocals:
Furthermore, you will have a chesty kind of mid-bass response combined with a really spacious, very airy kind of treble response which is somewhat emphasized. Besides, the AD700x really sounds good with stringed instruments and vocals because the forward treble really brings out the texture and kind of breathiness of those sounds.
In terms of bass response while the bass is there and it goes quite deep but is not particularly emphasized.
53-millimeter Driver Over-ear Headset:
These are a pair of over-ear headphones with 53-millimeter drivers. So they produce clear trouble in mid-range. On the other hand, the technical headphones are wired headphones of 3.5 millimeters and can work with almost any device but they also give you a quarter-inch adapter as well.
Also, the sensitivity is 100 DB. Hence they are open-air headphones so they produce zero sense of pressure in your ears.
Well-built Quality:
Let’s come to the build quality which is absolutely perfect and light. These pair of headphones from Technica are made out of aluminum honeycomb with a leather headband. Which is self-adjusting with the 3D wing. So basically they can extend and will be fit for all head sizes.
Thus, They do produce excellent acoustics and are good for someone who is looking for the word headphones at this price range.
Bottom Line:
All in all these headphones are the perfect try for someone who is looking for an airy kind of treble sound with textured vocals. It’s amazing both for listening and gaming for long sessions as they are super comfortable and feature a 3D wing mechanism. Further, they do produce excellent acoustics with a sensitivity of 100 DB and 53-millimeter drivers. So why not give it a try?
6. Sennheiser HD 559:
Nice Frequency Response:
The technical data about these open-back headphones that most people like is the frequency response of this headset is 14 to 26 thousand hertz. Besides the impetus is 50 OHMs and then you will have the sensitivity of 108 Db. Now the 50 ohms rating indicates that these pair of headphones can actually be listened to or probably be optimized or will give you an optimized experience if you were to use an amplifier with that.
Reliable and Smooth Finishing:
Now in terms of cables, this headphone has a detachable wire with a jack of 6.3-millimeter plug so it can work with every device. As you unbox the headset you will notice how plush the interior and design it has. It is a pretty soft and compact pair of headphones with premium packaging. Besides, the build quality is reliable and they are plastic-built headphones. The material of the ear cups is soft and a kind of velvet with smooth finishing. Overall these headphones have the potential for great output. Also, by using an amp you will have the studio environment at your home.
Comfortable and Soft earcups:
For the price point, these headphones do sound amazing with clear mids and high and standard bass which is not crazy bass but it is nice and deep. As these headphones are comfortable and soft, so you can wear and listen to your podcast, music and gaming for long sessions without having fatigue and headache. These are an over-ear design so that means your ear won’t scrub the inside of the ear cup which is a plus point. But as the ear cups are deep enough so they can fit perfectly on any head and size. Besides, your ears won’t be sweaty or hot inside the ear cups but they will remain relaxed.
Audiophile Headset with Removable Pads:
The Sennheiser claims it is a near-audiophile open-back headphone that uses dynamic drivers. Moreover, you will get velour ear pads of nice leather quality. Besides if any part gets damaged, you can find the replacement parts easily through the Sennheiser.
Especially the pads, they turned to wear out and are easy to replace. These headphones weigh almost nothing like literally, you can place them anywhere. The clamp is low, the weight is low and can stand on your head nicely.
Impressive Bass:
The word bass on this headphone is impressive. For the price point and the fact that it is an open-back headphone, the roll-off is much better controlled than average. Further, it does dig deeper than compared to other headphones in this range. The bass does extend further which is great. The upper bass has a bunch of warmth in it. And the midrange is a bit sharp and wide especially when you are listening to instruments like an electric guitar.
Bottom Line:
This headphone has a detachable wire with a jack of 6.3-millimeter plug so it can work with every device. Moreover, you will get velour ear pads of nice leather quality. Besides if any part gets damaged, you can find the replacement parts easily through the Sennheiser.
The Sennheiser claims it is a near-audiophile open-back headphone that uses dynamic drivers. For the price point, these headphones do sound amazing with clear mids and high.
7. New Philips SHP9600:
Over-ear, Detachable Wired Headset:
What’s good about these headphones is that they took everything that people complained about and they addressed it head-on, fixed it and they released a newer better version of SHP9500. Basically, these are open-back detachable wired headphones that are over-ear and come with a 10-foot cable and quarter-inch adapter so you can plug them into the audio interface or DAC.
With the open-back headset, you will get the airy feeling and live sound performance in your room which makes the taste of music much better.
Deep and Comfortable Earpads:
The ear cups on these headphones are a little bit oval and the earpads are a little bit deeper which is a benefit that they fit actually completely over your ears without touching them which is great. So regarding the comfort of 9600, it is a very comfortable old-school headphone.
It does seem to have a bit more clamp force. And as the ear pads have depth so your ears have a little more room to breathe. Moreover, they are removable and replaceable.
Upgraded Bass and Sound Quality:
In terms of sound quality, ultimately, these headphones have a pretty pleasing audio quality. Besides, you will find them enjoyable and the details are luckily good as well with treble performance. Further, you will also have a nice presence at the top end of anything like drums.
Now the bass response is a huge upgrade on this headset. The quality has always been there but they have introduced a lot more quantity. It is still not a bass monster, but at this price range, I think these are perfectly adequate. Probably you will have an enjoyable listening experience to really fast-paced, really active electronic music.
Nice Soundstage and Imaging:
Now let’s talk a bit about soundstage, imaging, and gaming performance. This headset will improve like a more cinematic, enjoyable and single-player experience because the bass response will be a little more immersive for that. On the other hand, the imaging and soundstage are on par with each other.
For things like movies, gaming, and music, you will find the imaging and soundstage pretty much equal. While listening to different instruments you will have a wide, airy feeling with a clear and detailed sound.
Bottom Line:
The new upgraded version of Philips SHP 9600 has been fixed and they released a newer better version of SHP9500. Basically, these are open-back detachable wired headphones that are over-ear and come with a 10-foot cable and quarter-inch adapter.
The earpads are a little bit deeper which is a benefit that they fit actually completely over your ears without touching them which is great. Besides, the bass response is a huge upgrade on this headset with a wide and airy soundstage and imaging. Probably good for gaming, mixing, movies and music.
8. Philips Audio Philips SHP9500:
Over-ear Open-back:
The Philips SHP9500 are stereo over-ear open-back headphones. Now the open-back means that everything you will listen to, people around you are going to be able to hear the exact same thing, pretty much at the exact same volume. Besides, the headphones themselves come in a really soft pouch and with a ten-foot cable. Hence the beauty of this headset is that it comes with a removable cable.
Detachable Wired Headset:
So any three and a half millimeter cable you can plug it in and use on these headphones. The plus to that is you may already have a cable you like that will easily work in these headphones. Then you will also have the simple branding of Philips on the top. Probably the design looks so nice.
Now the sound of these headphones is incredible and they compare with headphones that are five to six times the price. That’s why these became hard to get a hold up so basically, they are worth every penny.
Light-weight and Nicely Built:
Interestingly, the headphones themselves are very lightweight. Moreover, the headband is made of nice quality leather, and under the headband, there’s a band that is meant to come down and is very soft. Further, the headset also features slide adjustment. Now you can easily slide up and down the metal bracket and adjust it according to your head size.
Removable Pads and Soft Earcups:
Both the ear cups on the outside indicate the left and right marks which is really cool. Then you will have the 50-millimeter drivers. But as you know these are open headsets so they will leak the sound out of those drivers. Besides, the ear cups on them are pretty much soft. They are kind of firm in the way but they are not very deep. So your ears may touch the inside part of the pads.
Flexible and Ultimate Gaming Headphones:
All the roots are very flexible in these headphones as well as your headband. Hence the big heads don’t have to worry about the fitting. The overall build quality is very sleek and the look is nice and big. Secondly, you can also plug in your boom pro mic for gaming and recording, and mixing. The mic will make the headset the ultimate gaming headset. You will never hear the gaming sound any better than you do out of these headphones.
Incredible Audio Quality:
These headphones will honestly blow you away. The lows, the Mids and the high all sound great. Now they are not bass-heavy headphones but the bass is tight and punchy which most of us love. Then the trebles are really sparkly so you will get a really clean and open wide sound out of these headphones. Further, the mids are pretty much perfect so the vocals sound wide and incredible.
Bottom Line:
I think for money or it is hard to beat these even in the 300 dollar range. So you will have these headphones for under $100 and you won’t regret it for sure. These headphones will honestly blow you away. The lows, the Mids and the high all sound great. you will have the 50-millimeter drivers with soft and removable ear Pads. That’s why these became hard to get a hold of. So basically they are worth every penny.
Buyer’s Guide:
However, there are thousands of different headphones on the market and it can be really tough and oppressive to find the perfect pair of headphones for you. So therefore we are providing the conclusive guide for buying your ideal pair look in a big world of headphones.
Comfortability:
One of the things I think you should look for is comfort. So make sure that in the reviews different people have the same opinion about comfort. Make sure your headset is soft and comfortable. It may not cause any type of pain.
Sound Quality:
When it comes to sound quality, think about the types of music you actually listen to and do your house tasks. Any quality review will give you a clear insight into a headphone sound signature. Some are neutral, many stimulate the bass and others have clear mids at the expense of the low ends. You should also know your requirements and purpose before buying a pair of open-back headphones.
FAQ’S:
Q: Are open-back or closed-back headphones better?
Q: What is the advantage of open-back headphones?
Q: Is open-back better for gaming?
Q: Are open-back headphones good for mixing?
Hence, it gives the true sound of the original sound source. So for mixing, the open-back headphones will be a true representation of what you’re trying to listen to and make it much easier to mix.
Q: Can you mix and master on headphones?
Q: What volume should I mix with headphones?
Conclusion:
We have reviewed the 8 best open-back headphones for mixing and bring you this detailed guide.
When buying open-back headphones you need to consider two things first is frequency response and the other is the size of the drive. We have also shortlisted the top three open-back headphones that will help you select the best open-back headphone that will satisfy your needs.
Sennheiser HD 600 is overall the best on our list. These open-back headphones are the standard for many studios and many professionals prefer these headphones. The wide range frequency response from 12 to 39K Hz, the impedance of 300 Ohms, and 40 mm drivers give premium level audio quality. If quality and convenience are your priority then this is the headphone you need. It is expensive but the price is worth it. All parts are replaceable and easily available.
AKG Pro Audio K702 is a runner-up headphone. The unique thing about this headphone is that it has a semi-open-back which opens both worlds to you the natural sound of open back and the bass quality of close-back headphones. It has a frequency range of 10Hz to 39.8 Hz which helps in editing and mixing. it has an 80-micrometer thick center that allows high frequency and a 40-micrometer thick parameter enabling good bass. Its wire is not detachable but that is not an issue if you are going to use it daily.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is also a premium quality headphone. it is considered the rival of the Sennheiser HD 600. it is much more affordable than many premium headphones but still has the same sound quality as them. The frequency response of 5hz to 35KHz and 250 Ohms and open-back impedance allows it to deliver a natural dynamic voice.
We hope You loved our review! Leave a comment if you have any queries.
