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Best Open Back Headphones for Mixing and Mastering

It is not everyone’s space or equipment to use studio-grade monitors. For many producers , from professional to amateur having a set of headphones for mixing is an ideal tool for critical listening. Do you want to check the low end? Inspecting if the reverb does not overtake your space?

Best Open Back Headphones for Mixing and Mastering

A pair of headphones could give you a clear view of things that are often muddled or lost due to the various variables in your space. Introduction The most effective open-back headphones for mastering and mixing will allow you to create clear audio and precise mixes. These types of headphones usually produces a realistic and precise sound and is ideal for home studios.

However, the issue is what is the best way to select appropriate open-back headphones to meet your needs and preferences? We will assist you. We’ve put together an inventory of the top open-back headphones available in the marketplace today, with a buying guide to help.

Of these, we rate Beyerdynamic’s Beyerdynamic 459038 DT 990 PRO open Studio Headphone as the winner because of its superior performance in all aspects.

It not only offers amazing tonal depth and wide sound and a wide soundstage, but it’s also comfortable to wear for a long period of duration.

Because it reproduces accurate sound, it’s the ideal option for mastering and mixing decisions.

Additionally the open-back headphones are cheaper and is a good option for those on a tight budget and are looking for hi-fi audio.

Let’s look at the top open-back headphones for mixing or mastering at the studio at home, in the bedroom and at the top of the mountain,

1) Sennheiser HD 650

Sennheiser HD 650

Do you know what is the worst thing when mixing audio? It’s when the mix is great on your headphones or studio speakers, but sounds awful on any other speaker or headphones. This could result from a poor mix or mixing on a subpar system.

With the Sennheiser HD-650 it is possible to not only enjoy a distinct sound that is transparent but also the sound is balanced. When I refer to”balanced sound is when the audio output doesn’t favour one frequency over another, e.g. A headphone that isn’t tuned properly could make the bass sound different, something isn’t what you wish to hear when mixing music All you require is a an appropriately tuned headphone that doesn’t affect any frequency range.

The impedance in the Sennheiser HD-650 is somewhat not covered in reviews of headphone models The absence of this information may not cause any harm in itself, but it could affect the quality of sound as well as headphone compatibility.

the Sennheiser HD 650 is a headphone with an nominal impedance of 300 ohms. It is thought as a higher impedance headphone. This type of headphone does not work when connected to low voltage devices without amps, e.g. a laptop, smartphone. Laptops won’t be capable of putting enough power into the HD-650 of Sennheiser to the level of loudness and, therefore, if you have an external amplifier or DAC on your laptop, ensure you review the manufacturer’s specifications for the appropriate headphone impedance range.

Another crucial aspect to consider is the sensitivity of the headphone. The sensitivity will determine how loud the headphones play with a certain power. I’ll avoid technical information to make it simple to understand. The sensitivities that comes with the Sennheiser Hd650 is 103dB SPL that is considered to be loud enough, provided that the source (amp) is able to be able to power this. I will only be using the sensitivity range of 95db – 100 DB.

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Another great improvement of HD 650 is the improved frequency response, which ranges from 10 Hz to 39500 Hz. That’s the frequency range it is able to reproduce. in the end it has extremely light aluminum voice coils for high transient performance and an elegant, high-end titanium/silver finish.


Features:

  • Open-Back, Over-ear
  • Lightweight aluminum voice coils
  • Wearing it comfortably
  • Frequency Response 10 – 39500Hz
  • The Nominal Impedance is 300 Ohms
  • Sensitivity: 103dB

2) Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile

ATH-AD700X

The ATH-AD700X is equipped with newly developed 53mm drivers that provides a clear treble as well as midrange. On the top, it’s an open-back type headphone that gives a completely natural sound headphone, with no tension on the ears.

One of the biggest disadvantages of the headphones wired is the possibility of tangling (in the event that you are required to move while listening to the audio through headphones).

What if you could prevent knots!

With the ATH AD700X, you do not need to be concerned about tangling because it comes with a extremely conductive OFC single-sided cord with an elastic TPE sheath to avoid tangles.

Another thing I like about the product is the 3D wings support that can automatically adjust the size of your head to ensure a pleasant listening experience. It also reduces pressure. In addition the earpads made from fabric are elastic, which gives you a great comfort while wearing them and long-lasting.

The sensitivities that comes with the Audio Technica ATH-AD700X is 117.76 DB/V SPL based on the voltage and 103.74 DB/mW SPL when powered and dB is the word used to describe decibels and decibels are the measure of how loud an audio signal is. dB/V , or dB/mW, is simply a measurement method used to determine decibels. The standard internationally was based on mW, whereas the modern methods use the dB/V.

There’s a low-to-no likelihood that you’ll require an amplifier in order to get the volume you want with this headphone model because it has an impedance that is lower (40 Ohms) and a higher sensitivity with Sennheiser HD 650, which has a higher impedance.

If you think you’re not getting the right volume using the ATH AD700X you could try an amplifier, however I doubt you’ll require any.


Features:

  • Open-Back, Over-ear
  • 3D Wing Support
  • The ultimate comfort comes with the help of the earpads that are flexible and raised.
  • Frequency Response 20 to 20000 Hz
  • Nominal Impedance: 40 Ohms
  • The Sensitivity is 117.76 dB/V SPL

 


3) Sennheiser HD 559

This is an open-back design with an over-ear style that is powered by the upgraded Sennheiser 38-millimeter driver which has great dynamics and minimal distortion.

One of the things I like in this model HD 599 is the astonishing E.A.R Technology (Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement) It is designed to enhance the headphones by adjusting the sound directly to your ears , creating more of an ‘in-room’ listening experience.

The comfort factor is of paramount significance when using headphones. That is one reason why the open-back, circumaural headphones will always be the preferred choice among mix and mastering professionals. The Sennheiser HD 599 is light and comes with a comfortable removable earpad that can be replaced to ensure a comfortable wear and prolonged listening time.

The HD 599 of Sennheiser features the sensitivity of 106 dB per milliwatt of power as well as an impedance 50 Ohms that is considered to be as a lower impedance.

If you’re an audiophile and are searching for headphones that you can connect to your laptop, but without an amp specifically built for it, I’d recommend sticking to the range between 16 and 80 ohms and the sensitivity minimum 95 decibels per watt. there aren’t any strict guidelines, but generally speaking the smaller the impedance is, the better the compatibility with devices powered by batteries e.g. Laptop.

Sennheiser HD 599 is able to work perfectly even without an amp. If, however, you feel you’re not getting the desired volume, you could consider adding an amplifier. Make sure to verify the recommended ohms of the amplifier you are using.

Note: It comes with a 3 meter detachable cable as well as an 6.3-millimeter connector.


Features:

  • Open-Back, Over-ear
  • E.A.R Technology (Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement)
  • Lightweight
  • A soft, reusable earpad for a comfortable, long-lasting wear
  • Frequency Response 14 26,000 – 14
  • Nominal Impedance: 50 Ohms
  • Sensitivity: 106 dB/mW

 


4)Beyerdynamic Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro

beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones

DT 990 Pro is a top-quality over-ear headset for mastering, mixing and professional use or to use in your home studio. It provides a wide clear, crystal-clear, and unparalleled quality of audio reproduction.

It is Beyerdynamic the DT 990 Professional is available in two styles, the first is equipped with the impedance set at 80 which is suitable for use in studios that are universal You can as choose to not use an amplifier by connecting it directly into your laptop. in case you’re not happy with the volume (not enough) or if you want to pair with a DAC or source that can support this impedance.

The second variant of DT 990 Pro comes with an impedance that is higher, at 250 ohms. This makes it ideal for devices that are designed for professional use.

Furthermore to that, this DT 990 Pro open design is extremely spacious in which. It provides an in-room similar listening experience, but without being too loud and has a perfectly tuned general frequency.

It is important for headphones to sound as clear as it is possible. The other is the degree of comfort. This DT 990 Pro doesn’t stand with the rest in terms of comfort. It is extremely lightweight and comes with adjustable earcups. In addition the strong headband made of steel ensures an incredibly secure snug fit.


Features:

  • Open-Back, Over-ear
  • Lightweight and a resizable Ear cup that is adjustable
  • Ear pads that provide unparalleled wear comfort
  • Frequency Response 5 to 35,000 Hz
  • Nominal Impedance: 80 ohms / 250 ohms

 


5) Philips Fidelio X2HR

Philips Fidelio X2HR

The FidelioX2HR is fitted with 50mm high-power drivers, that use magnet with a high-power neodymium to reproduce accurately the entire range of musical frequencies including precise audio dynamics, to a balanced , crisp bass and crystal clear high frequencies.

Additionally, because of an acoustic open-back design, the FidelioX2HR can eliminate the buildup of air pressure behind the driver. This is in contrast to closed-back design where air pressurization builds up behind the driver can creates a less clear sound. With an open-back design that gives the diaphragm plenty of movement, which produces clear, natural-sounding sound.

Its Philip Fidelio X2HR headphones not only has 50mm drivers, but also an layered motion control driver that forms a flexible boundary , and reduces or blocks any overly high frequencies. This produces natural, smooth and crystal clear high-frequency sound.

What about a headphone that offers more comfort? This open-back, circumaural headphone has an adjustable hammock that is comfortable and provides a perfect fitting. Additionally, X2HR is equipped with Ear shells designed to be able to tilt 15 degrees, ensuring that they fit your ear’s natural shape and providing a pleasant sound experience.

The FidelioX2HR comes with an sensitivity of 100 decibels per milliwatt of power. It also has the impedance is 30 Ohms which is thought to have a as having a lower impedance but a slightly more sensitive. Therefore, you’ll be fine with an amplifier.

Note: It comes with an 3.5mm ( mini-jack) detachable cable (3-meter) 3.5 millimeters to 6.3 adapter in mm and a cable management clip.


Features:

  • Open-Back, Over-ear
  • Motion control driver with layers
  • An adjustable hammock that can be adjusted and an Ear shell that can tilt to match the natural ear’s geometry
  • Frequency Response 5 – 40,000 Hz
  • Nominal Impedance 30 Ohms
  • Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW

6) Sennheiser HD 599 SE

SENNHEISER HD 599 SE

It’s not that different from the standard Sennheiser HD 559 which is recommended previously It is the HD 559 SE is powered by an outstanding Sennheiser 39millimeter driver. it provides a clear, crisp and lively sound.

The standard HD 599 comes with a 6.3 millimeters jack. This makes it challenging to use an auxiliary jack.

On the other hand, the special edition is equipped with two detachable cables; 6.3 millimeters/quarter-inch jack, which is 3 meters long, and a mini-jack/3.5 millimeters jack, that is 1.2 meters long.

The quarter-inch connector is a great suitable for studio applications and the other can be utilized with laptops.

This is an ideal over-ear headphone to mix and mastering engineers who are searching for a lighter design with lavish velour-covered ear cushion that provide exceptional comfort during long listening sessions.

The HD 599SE from Sennheiser has the sensitivity of 106 dB per milliWatt of power . It also has it has an impedance that is just 50 Ohms which is considered to be lower impedance.


Features:

  • Open-Back, Over-ear
  • E.A.R Technology (Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement)
  • Two detachable cable; 6.3 millimeters, and 3.5 millimeters Jack
  • Ear pads that are soft and replaceable for a comfortable, long-lasting wear
  • Frequency Response 14 26,000 Hz
  • Nominal Impedance: 50 Ohms
  • Sensitivity: 106 dB/mW

7) Philips SHP9500

Philips SHP9500 comes with the 50mm high-power Neodymium driver that reproduces the full range of sound dynamics and provides an expertly tuned crisp bass, clear sound and in the end stunning high-frequency sound.

Under 65 dollars it’s perhaps the most affordable open-back headphone that you can find in this cost.

The SHP9500 is identical to the Fidelio headphone, in that it features an exact-angled driver designed to conform to the natural ear shape, which creates a more vibrant and real-time listening.

I’ve already said it and will be repeating it again, any headphone that produces great sound without comfort is an ache in the back. The SHP9500 is fitted with a comfortable, headband cushion that is double-layered It is soft, airy and can be utilized for longer periods of time.


Features:

  • Open-Back, Over-ear
  • A precise-angled driver designed to conform to the natural ear’s geometry
  • Double-layered headband cushion
  • Frequency Response between 12 and 35 000Hz
  • Nominal Impedance: 32 Ohms
  • Sensitivity: 101 dB/mW

 


8) LyxPro OEH-10

The LyxPro 10EH is an open-back over-ear headphone ideal for mixing engineers, music producers, music engineers as well as anyone who wants to listen to a clear and natural sound.

With a price of less than 60 bucks it is built to be light and provides an authentic, natural sound. an audio, making it ideal when you have an affordable budget and require a premium quality to mix songs.

One of the things I enjoy in this headphones is its removable earpads and soft that allow you to listen to your music in a comfortable way even if used for a longer time.

LyxPro 0EH-10 features an impedance of just 54 ohms with sensitiveness of 95 dB that makes them easy to drive by devices that operate at lower voltages.


Features:

  • Open-Back, Over-ear
  • The ear pads can be interchanged and the fluffy
  • Lightweight and offers authentic, vibrant sound
  • Frequency Response Between 15 and 30000Hz
  • Nominal Impedance 54 Ohms
  • Sensitivity: 95 dB/mW

 


9) GRADO SR80e Prestige Series

The next item on our list is an open-back, on-ear headphone made of an all-conductor cable with four conductors and bigger cushioning for the ear to provide more natural and open stage audio.

On-ear headphones isn’t a substitute for an over-ear headset, so be cautious when selecting one since some prefer the portability offered by on-ear cans however, some prefer the on-ear cans because of the direct pressure placed on the ear, it all is contingent on the brand.

The Grado SR80e’s Ear pads are soft and soft and comfortable. This makes them more comfortableand not heavy. The Grado SR80e is a more refined bass resonance, which increases its overall frequency.


Features:

  • Open-Back, On-ear
  • An improvement in bass resonance
  • Extra-large ear cushions to create an unobtrusive, natural stage sound

 


10.) Massdrop x AKG K7XX

Massdrop x AKG K7XX

The Massdrop x AKGK7XX is a tribute to the K702 65th anniversary edition by AKG While the anniversary edition is excellent the new open-back model has additional features in the comfort and sound section and also the same powerful driver technology.

This version has a better frequency response of 10 to 39,800 Hz. The program has been tweaked to provide a more general frequency that brings you close to every detail when mixing and organizing audio tracks.

One of the aspects I like in this headphone is the self-adjusting headband made of leather and memory-foam earpads. This helps to reduce fatigue. You can be sure of a greater comfort when wearing for extended periods. In addition there’s an untidy 10-foot cable that is easily replaceable if the need arises.

For a quick summary to sum it up, the Massdrop x AKG K7XX comes with the lower impedance of the 62 ohms as well as an sensitivity of 105 decibels which means they work perfectly without the need for an amplifier. You can also add an amplifier to make things more powerful when you are working on mixing and you’re sure to hear your music to the music at a high volume.


Features:

  • Open-Back, Over-ear
  • Memory-foam headband with self-adjusting leather Earpads
  • 10-foot detachable cable
  • Frequency Response from 10 to 39 800Hz
  • Nominal Impedance: 52 ohms
  • Sensitivity: 105 dB/mW


Things to Take into Account when deciding on Open Back Headphones to Mix and mastering

Mixing and mastering can be a difficult process that requires numerous factors. If you don’t approach seriously, it could become overwhelming. This is why it’s crucial to select the right device like open back headphones that mix and master.

If, for example have a badly tuned open back headphone, it may experience unbalanced frequencies and harsh highs as well as muffled bass. There are many important aspects to keep in mind to select the ideal open-back headphones to mix and mastering.

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Sound Quality

The sound quality is among the most crucial aspects of headphones. If your headphones aren’t able to reproduce a natural and clear sound, there’s an 80% chance you’ll make a mistake in your adjustments during mixing and mastering sessions.

It is advised to avoid mixing headphones that have a higher frequencies and sweetness. You don’t want something like that to track mix , yet they have the frequency response is flat, allowing you to tune into an actual frequency for more emotionally balanced mixing.


Comfort

Inconsistent comfort could be a hindrance to the ultimate goal of high audio quality. Lightweight headphones that have cushions made of soft foam are perfect for maximum comfort when worn for long periods of duration.

It is recommended to select headphones that have adjustable and rotating earcups. Additionally, you can opt for ear cups that are adjustable to accommodate your ear’s shape.


Durability

Durability is a crucial factor when you purchase an open-back headphones heavily relying on materials. Certain earpads for headphones can cause sweating because of counterfeit leather or the use of.

This is why you should pick headphones with soft ear pads that are constructed of foam or genuine leather for long-term use.


Transparency

The majority of open-back headphones enhance both the bass and treble responses so that they sound appealing and more refined. However, playing your music with these kinds of headphones may cause you to have distorted and dull music.

The mix will not sound good on all audio systems or playback devices. It is crucial to look for headphones with a transparent design to make mix that is compatible with various systems.


Accuracy

We also suggest headphones that give you the right idea of the current state of your music. A pair of good open-back headphones should offer clear, rich and precise sound to allow you to take professional mixing and mastering choices.

The headphones that sound distorted or even muddy, or exaggerating certain frequencies could hinder your ability to make high-quality mixes.


Drivers

The driver is an essential element of open back headphones since it receives electrical signals and converts the signals into sounds. It’s basically a tiny device that you wear on your ears. The size of it varies depending in the headphones, but generally ranges from 20mm to 50 millimeters.

The bigger your driver is, the more powerful the headphones, and the higher the bass. However, this doesn’t necessarily mean that it will provide higher quality sound. Plus, the larger size may cause the headphones to have greater difficulty in absorbing higher frequency.

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