If you want to get a new set of headphones, you might have seen terms like “closed back” and “open back” thrown around. If these terms are new to you, trust your old pals at AMS to set the record straight!
It’s important to know how your sound is being delivered to you… right? In this article, we’re going to ramble on and on about the type of headphones would work best for your particular listening environment. So, which is best: Open-back vs. Closed-back headphones?
What are closed-back headphones?


Closed back headphones have the back of the ear cups sealed, providing much better sound isolation. The closed cups don’t let sound seep in or out of the headphones, which obviously helps in noisier environments.
What settings closed-back headphones ideal for:
- Casual listening
- Commuting
- Recording audio
With closed-back headphones, you don’t need to worry about unwanted external noise coming through and interrupting your listening experience. This type of headphone is designed for sound isolation, so if you’re in a noisy environment, then look no further! They’re great for commuting, casually listening to music in public, or gaming.
When you want to be completely immersed in whatever you’re listening to, closed-back headphones will be the way to go!
Closed-back headphones are also great for recording music. If you’re recording an instrument or vocals, they won’t let what you’re hearing in the headphones get to the mic and affect your recording.
However, closed-back headphones don’t provide the same open, natural sound experience as open-back headphones. They can create sound reflections within the earcups that might emphasize certain frequencies that you wouldn’t hear in the “wild.” The audio is also always right up against your ear, so there’s no distance between you and the audio — typically referred to as a “soundstage.”
While you can use them for mixing and critical listening (especially in potentially noisy home studios), most professionals prefer the uncolored and “natural” sound of open-back headphones in the studio.
Pros of closed-back headphones:
- Immersive experience – Closed back headphones are great for isolating the sound and blocking any unwanted outside noise from disrupting your listening experience.
- No sound leakage – No need to worry about sound escaping or others hearing your audio, including your microphone if you’re in a recording studio.
- Extensive bass frequencies – With the earcups closed, the bass sounds much more pronounced and providing more freedom for the lower frequencies to come forth in the audio.
Cons of closed-back headphones:
- Not much of a soundstage effect – You can’t add distance between you and the music. The sound is always right up against your ears, which can sound more confined.
- No ventilation – Airflow is restricted all around, which traps the heat inside and can be uncomfortable for long listening periods.
- Can color sound – Sound reflections in the earcups can change the sound of the audio, typically by pronouncing the low-end. This is fine for casual listening but may pose a problem in the studio.
What are open-back headphones?


Open back headphones are headphones that allow air to pass through the rear of the speaker. You’ll get to hear the music but also everything else going on around you.
What settings closed-back headphones ideal for:
- Critical listening (mixing, mastering, etc.)
- Audiophiles
- When you want to be aware of surroundings
The openness of the back allows the sound to disperse naturally, creating a natural soundstage with better transparency and detail. They’re much better for critical listening, which is why most professionals prefer open-back headphones. Of course, just make sure your studio is nice and quiet because you’re definitely going to hear everything around you with an open-back design!
As an added bonus, open-back headphones are usually lighter and much more comfortable to wear. They’re great for long listening sessions.
Pros of open-back headphones:
- Better sound quality – Natural reverberation provides much more accurate audio and natural “soundstage” experience.
- Comfort – If you’re listening to music for longer periods of time, open-back headphones are usually lighter and allow more air circulation.
Cons of open-back headphones:
- Leaks audio – Others can hear what you’re listening to, and you can hear everything around you. Not only does it affect your immersion, but do you really want everyone around you judging your musical taste!?
Closed-back vs. Open-Back Headphones: Which Should You Get?
Buying the right headphones is really going to come down to what you want to use them for. But you might still be asking yourself, which should I get: closed back vs. open back?
If you’re someone who plans on using headphones for mixing, production, or anything else that might require critical listening, open-back headphones would be a solid option. If you’re looking for casual listening and want the flexibility of listening to your music without outside disruptions, closed-back headphones might suit you better. And if you really just want to buy one pair that can “do it all,” a good pair of closed-back headphones will be fine for most occasions.
Again, weigh out your needs and then filter in your preferences. In the end, it’s all about what you like best!
Top headphone brands
Good news, everyone! There are many trustworthy and reputable brands that design quality headphones that come in both open back and closed back varieties.
Below are some brands that provide excellent open-back and closed-back headphones that we think is worth checking out, especially if you’re in the market for a new pair.
Of course, this list is by no means exhaustive, but it should at least give you a great place to start.
Now, you decide!
Hopefully now you have a clearer picture of what kind of headphones to buy. It’s also a good idea to ask around and see what others have. And don’t hesitate to try multiple kinds! You should actually experience the different strengths and weaknesses that open-back and closed-back headphones provide for yourself.
If you’re still unsure or have additional questions, feel free to give the AMS Customer Service team a ring at 800-458-4076. They’re all experienced musicians and are more than happy to help you out. Give us a call and let us steer you in the direction that’s best for you. Happy listening!

