Why Do Closed-Back Headphones Have A Bad Reputation?

Closed-back headphones often get a bad reputation for exaggerated bass and mid-range coloration, which stems from manufacturers over-compensating for poor physical ear cup seals.

But it’s not as simple as “open-back headphones are better”. It depends on what you’re doing and other factors.

So, which one is better for recording, mixing, studio and live sound? Find out in the video linked below.

• Sennheiser HD 480 PRO: https://geni.us/AM2UH ​
• Sennheiser HD 490 PRO: https://geni.us/fVT8fO​

Thanks to Sennheiser for making this video possible and partnering with Audio University.

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SPONSORED GIVEAWAY

WIN the Sennheiser HD 480 Pro Headphones

A perfect balance of accuracy, comfort, and versatility, the Sennheiser HD 480 PRO studio headphones give you the power to create with focus and confidence, whether in the studio or on the move.

The closed-back design and remarkable “Vibration Attenuation System” provide remarkable isolation without compromising on sonics.

Their open back predecessor—the HD 490 Pro—have already become THE headphones to beat in their category.

Find out just how well Sennheiser can make closed back headphones perform.

**This giveaway is open worldwide except where prohibited by law. See the official rules for more information.**

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HEADPHONE MIXING GUIDE

Headphones have become the primary mixing tool for a growing number of producers and engineers. They are affordable, consistent, portable, and free from the acoustic problems that plague untreated rooms. But they are not a perfect substitute for a well-calibrated speaker system in a treated space.

Understanding exactly why they fall short is the key to using them well. This guide covers the core limitations of headphone monitoring, the science behind why they sound different from speakers, and the practical steps you can take to make better mixing decisions regardless of your setup.