Best Open-back Headphones For Mixing 2025 : My Recommendations

Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO

beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO Over-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones - Open-Back Stereo Construction, Wired (80 Ohm, Grey)

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO: My Honest Thoughts

When I first got my hands on the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO headphones, I wasn't sure what to expect. Sure, I'd read about their exquisite sound quality and reputation in the audio world, but I'm no audiophile, just a person who loves good sound. Needless to say, these headphones have quickly become my favorite companion for both work and play.

At first glance, the DT 990 PROs might not scream luxury as they are mostly made of plastic barring the headband and connectors. But don't let that fool you; this high-quality polymer plastic makes the headphones surprisingly lightweight, a huge plus for long listening sessions. The adjustable headband, lined with soft fake leather, fits comfortably, catering to almost any head size without fuss.

The standout feature in terms of comfort has to be the velour ear pads. These are like little clouds enveloping your ears, providing both plushness and smoothness for hours on end. While velour doesn't isolate sound as much as pleather and can get a bit dusty, the comfort is just incomparable. Plus, a quick wipe now and then keeps them looking fresh.

Now, let's dive into the heart of the matter—the sound quality. These open-back headphones have an extraordinarily open soundstage, effortlessly delivering distinct spatial cues, which significantly enhance the listening experience. As someone who enjoys a wide range of genres from EDM to Hip-Hop and even gaming, the DT 990 PROs have consistently impressed me.

The bass, surprisingly pronounced for an open-back design, strikes a perfect balance, pulling me into every beat without overwhelming the mix. The mids are rich with detail, although not as prominent. Now, the highs are clear but, at times, they can be a touch too bright. Certain tracks might give a slight ear-piercing experience, something I've learned to manage by adjusting volume levels.

Another thing to consider is the model you choose. I eventually settled on the 250 Ohm version. To really drive these and experience their full potential, a decent amplifier is essential. I paired mine with a Behringer AMP800, which works like a charm. While you can use them with devices like an iPhone, you might find yourself cranking up the volume to get a satisfactory output.

I've been enjoying the DT 990 PROs for over two years now, and they remain a fantastic investment. Unless you're willing to splurge on something like the Sennheiser HD800s, the DT 990 PROs present an exceptional value for professional-grade sound on a budget. They masterfully deliver on their promise of crystal-clear audio, ensuring a truly delightful listening experience with every use.

Samson SR850

Samson SR850 Over-Ear Semi-Open Studio Headphones

My Experience with the Samson SR850 Headphones

When I first tried on the Samson SR850 headphones, I was instantly captivated. The "wow" factor is undeniable, especially considering their affordability. The comfort level was a pleasant surprise. The self-adjusting headband, which seems to take inspiration from the AKG K240s, fit snugly on my head without feeling tight. The ear pads, made of a soft felt-like material, felt a bit unusual at first but proved to be comfortable over time.

Upon receiving these headphones, I noticed they came in a retail box, and thankfully, they were free of any damage. I was puzzled at first by the 1/4 inch adapter pre-installed on the cable. It seemed like it was fixed, but it turns out it unscrews easily to reveal a 3.5mm plug. The quality of the adapter stood out, fitting seamlessly and enhancing the whole listening setup. The cable itself, although non-removable, impressed me with its high quality and length, plus those amazing gold-plated connectors!

A Deep Dive Into Sound Quality

The Samson SR850 offers a unique listening experience with its semi-open back design, which creates an excellent "sound stage." I felt immersed while playing video games like Skyrim SE, as the sound had a natural spaciousness. Though the bass is less intense compared to many modern headphones, it has a balance that I appreciate. It might not satisfy those who look for booming bass, yet it aligns well with preferences for clear mids and highs. For everyday use, I enjoyed how the design allows external sounds in. It's helpful for those moments when you still need to be aware of your surroundings while listening to music on devices like my iPod.

Durability and Longevity

In terms of durability, the SR850s seem robust. The build quality is commendable, especially given the price. The headband, featuring faux leather and sturdy metal supports, feels durable and should hold up well. Although the non-removable cable could potentially be a worry for some, there’s a sense of confidence in the overall construction. If issues arise in the future, it might be possible to replace certain parts or even customize them. The ear cups are removable and modular, opening opportunities for potential upgrades or repairs.

Final Thoughts

So far, these headphones have met my expectations, offering great sound quality and comfort. While the lack of a removable cable and lighter bass might be seen as drawbacks by some, they suit my needs perfectly. Whether enjoying music casually or using them with my computer, the Samson SR850s provide an enjoyable listening experience. They look professional, too, which would make them a good choice for content creators and streamers. I find these headphones to be a delightful addition to my audio gear collection, worth every bit of the 9/10 rating they earn in my book!

PHILIPS Fidelio X3

PHILIPS Fidelio X3 Professional Studio Monitor Headphones for Recording & Mixing Wired Over The Ear Open-Back Headphones, Multi-Layer 50mm Diaphragms, Hi-Res Music Studio Headset, Premium Finishing

Experiencing the PHILIPS Fidelio X3 Headphones

Having tried several headphones—some pretty good, others exceptional—I'm always on the lookout for the perfect balance of sound and comfort. It's not every day you stumble upon something as impressive as the PHILIPS Fidelio X3. When I first laid eyes on these headphones, their sleek, understated design immediately caught my attention. They're more than just a pretty face, though. These headphones easily blend into your workspace without becoming an overwhelming presence.

Sublime Comfort and Build

The Fidelio X3 is arguably the most comfortable pair of headphones I've worn. Their comfortable fit feels like a gentle hug on your ears. It's easy to forget they're even there, which is impressive considering the hours I've spent with them on. Whether you're someone with glasses, like me, or not, these headphones remain snug without the need for constant adjustment. The overall build quality is outstanding, exuding both elegance and durability. It's something that really stands out as you handle them day to day.

Audio Performance That Captivates

Sound-wise, the Fidelio X3 offers a remarkable auditory experience with a unique sense of fullness that I haven't found in other models. They deliver excellent sound right out of the box, but their true magic reveals itself with a few tweaks. Swap the stock pads, and you'll find a punchy bass with no roll-off. This means pure, distortion-free bass even on the most demanding tracks. It feels as though the instruments are positioned perfectly around you, creating a lively and spacious listening environment.

Versatility in Usability

The capability of the X3 to be driven from nearly any source—whether a mobile device or a high-end DAC—makes them extraordinarily versatile. I found them responsive even at about 60% volume, giving them the edge in terms of ease of use. They handled everything I threw at them—from different types of music genres to various technical setups—and excelled every time.

Drawing Comparisons

While comparisons to the X2 or other brands like the DT880 or the 660s are common, the Fidelio X3 delivers a distinct sound with a broader stage and fuller voices. The imaging is nuanced—the bass is robust yet never overshadows other frequencies, unlike some heavier bass models. It's like upgrading from a sports car to a luxury model—everything feels just a bit smoother and more enjoyable.

Room for Improvement?

While I've had a stellar experience, there are a couple of points worth noting. The stock velour pads might not appease everyone—especially if you prefer materials like suede or leather, which could enhance comfort further for long listening sessions. Also, swapping cords can be tricky, as standard aftermarket options might not be compatible.

Yet despite these minor quibbles, the PHILIPS Fidelio X3 stands tall as an exceptional piece of audio equipment. Its ability to make every genre enjoyable leaves little to be desired. They're headphones I can genuinely recommend to anyone looking for sound quality coupled with comfort, and a design that complements rather than distracts. An investment in the Fidelio X3 is undoubtedly one you'll cherish for years to come.

Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X

beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X Open-Back Studio Headphones with Stellar.45 Driver for Mixing and Mastering

Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X: A Trusted Companion for All Your Audio Needs

I recently had the pleasure of trying out the Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X, and let me tell you, these headphones have exceeded my expectations on every front. From the moment I put them on, I could feel the superb engineering and refined design, more evolved than its predecessor, the DT990 Pro. Whether I was mixing, mastering, or just enjoying some music, these headphones delivered a balanced and full sound experience.

The audio quality is simply marvelous. It offers great bass, midrange, and treble that make my favorite tracks come to life. The soundstage is impressive; it feels like I'm right there at a live performance. The tonality and detail of the DT 900 PRO X are spot on, giving me clear, crisp audio in every genre of music. Compared to some other models I've tried, like the Sennheiser HD660S and the Sundara, the Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X brings out sounds that others simply miss or wash out.

Comfort is another area where these headphones get a big thumbs up from me. Wearing them, it feels like they were made just for me. The pressure is just right; not too tight, not too loose. I've used the Sennheiser HD660S before, and truthfully, they were a bit uncomfortable with the clamp pressure and cable length. But with the DT 900 PRO X, I can wear them for extended periods while gaming or watching movies without a hint of discomfort.

When it comes to build quality, Beyerdynamic has done a top-notch job. The materials feel robust and sturdy without compromising the sleek look. The cables included are solid, so I don’t worry about them snagging or breaking easily. Unlike the cheaper build quality I experienced with some other brands, these headphones feel like they are built to last, and that’s a great reassurance.

Performance-wise, these headphones really shine. Despite not even needing a significant boost from an amplifier, when I did use one, I noticed that the sound clarity and soundstage reached another level of excellence. No distortion, even at higher volumes, allows me to enjoy my tunes fully without any worries.

These headphones aren't limited to just music; they are perfect for movies, TV, and gaming as well. Whether I’m watching intense movie scenes or casually gaming, the sound enthralls me, keeping me engaged with the multimedia content. The versatility of the DT 900 PRO X has truly impressed me.

Considering everything the Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X offers for its price point, available conveniently on platforms like Amazon, I am delighted with this purchase. I’m even planning to save up for another in the Beyerdynamic range. If you’re looking for headphones that offer a full, rich sound experience with unbeatable comfort and quality, these are the ones to get.

AKG Pro Audio K240 STUDIO

AKG Pro Audio K240 STUDIO Over-Ear, Semi-Open, Professional Studio Headphones

AKG Pro Audio K240 STUDIO: My Experience

I recently had the opportunity to try out the AKG Pro Audio K240 STUDIO headphones, and I must admit, I was genuinely impressed. Coming into this, I was a little skeptical due to my previous experience with an earlier AKG model, the K70. However, these headphones have truly proved themselves as a solid option for those stepping into the studio-grade headphone space without breaking the bank.

The AKG K240 STUDIO headphones deliver an incredibly neutral sound, which is exactly what I look for in studio headphones. If you want to appreciate the original sound without any added effects or enhancements, these headphones do that beautifully. The sound stage is quite large, providing a nice sense of space while listening. I noticed that the highs are clear but have a slight cut-off at the peaks, while the bass is warm and clear, though slightly flat. Interestingly, even though some bass-heavy tracks required me to increase the volume significantly compared to my other headphones, there was no distortion or muddled sounds.

Trying out tracks with varied sound dynamics was quite revealing. For example, in "Jolie Coquine" by Caravan Palace, the lyrics and violins were nice and clear, albeit with some loss at the peaks. Switching to "Beauty Beats" by Beats Antique, the sound experience improved as the highs were more balanced in the mix. When I ventured into orchestral pieces like "Carmina Burana" by the London Philharmonic Orchestra, while the highs were well-rendered, the sound stage was narrower compared to my usual headphones. It wasn’t a massive difference, but noticeable to a seasoned listener.

In terms of performance across various genres, I found mids songs like "My Kind of Town" by Sinatra a bit flat. The flatness didn’t detract significantly from the listening experience but was apparent when directly compared to more premium headphones. However, tracks like "In The Air Tonight" by Phil Collins sounded fine, showing that the perception of flatness can vary depending on the song.

One of the standout areas for the AKG K240 is watching movies and general video content. The neutral sound made spoken word content on platforms like YouTube and Netflix sound just perfect! The voices were balanced, and everything felt just right, enhancing the overall viewing experience.

In conclusion, the AKG Pro Audio K240 STUDIO headphones are an excellent choice for their intended price range. They deliver a neutral sound that is perfect for studio-quality listening. If you love streaming, gaming, or watching videos, these headphones offer great value. However, if you’re in search of headphones with heavy, thunderous bass, you might need to look elsewhere. Overall, I found these headphones to be a comfortable and quality purchase, deserving of my praise.