Tag: Open-back Headphones

  • Grell OAE2 Open-Back Headphones: Premium Sound with FSFM Tech

    Grell OAE2 Open-Back Headphones: Premium Sound with FSFM Tech

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Grell OAE2 headphones, priced at €499, aim to deliver “sound in its purest form” for both studio use and home enjoyment.
    2. The innovative front-facing sound field modulation (FSFM) enhances sound interaction with the ear, offering improved highs, mids, and bass.
    3. User feedback from the OAE1 led to design improvements in the OAE2, including a breathable velour and memory foam headband for better comfort.
    4. The headphones feature a longer extension mechanism to fit various head shapes and have an adjusted frequency response for balanced sound.
    5. The wired OAE2 includes premium silver-plated OFC cables with various connectors and a modular design for easy component replacement.

    Approximately a year after the debut of the OAE1, Grell is introducing the OAE2. Priced at €499, Grell asserts that these new open-back headphones will provide “sound in its purest form,” meaning they aim to be “unadulterated, detailed and emotional.” This makes them ideal not just for studio production, but also for enjoying music or gaming at home.

    Innovative Sound Technology

    The OAE2 features front-facing sound field modulation (FSFM). Unlike traditional headphones, the sound waves hit the ear from the front at an angle. This design is meant to enhance the interaction between sound and the unique shape of each ear, which results in finely resolved highs, clear mids, and tangible bass.

    Enhanced Comfort and Fit

    Grell has taken into account user feedback from the OAE1 while designing the OAE2. As a result, the headband and padding are made from breathable velour and memory foam, which provides a better fit for extended comfort. The extension mechanism has also been made longer to accommodate various head shapes. Additionally, the frequency response has been adjusted to achieve an even more precise and balanced sound.

    High-Quality Connections

    The wired Grell OAE2 includes two premium, silver-plated OFC cables with 3.5 mm connectors (with 6.3 mm adapters) as well as 4.4 mm plugs for fully balanced use. Its modular design allows for all components to be replaceable, ensuring that the headphones last longer.

    Information on when they will be available globally is still awaited, as Grell seems to be gearing up for an international release.

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    Grell OAE2 Open-Back Headphones: Premium Sound with FSFM Tech

     

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  • Fiio Launches JadeAudio JT3 Hi-Fi Open-Back Headphones

    Fiio Launches JadeAudio JT3 Hi-Fi Open-Back Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Fiio’s JT3 open-back wired headphones are priced affordably at $69.99.
    2. The open-back design enhances sound quality by providing a broader soundstage and reducing heat and pressure.
    3. Features large 50 mm drivers with a frequency range of 10 Hz to 40 kHz, 80 ohms impedance, and 97 dB/mW sensitivity.
    4. Designed for comfort with memory foam earpads, an adjustable stainless steel-zinc alloy headband, and a lightweight build of 330 g (11.6 oz.).
    5. Includes detachable 3.5 mm cables for customization, available in black on Amazon and silver on AliExpress.

    Fiio has introduced the JT3 open-back wired headphones, featuring large 50 mm drivers, for an affordable price of $69.99.

    Enhanced Sound Experience

    The JT3’s open-back structure helps to get rid of heat, moisture, and pressure that often builds up in closed-back headphones. This design also enables the drivers to generate a broader and more open soundstage, as stated by Fiio.

    Impressive Specifications

    Equipped with large 50 mm drivers made from PEK and PU composite diaphragms and surrounded by brass damping rings, these headphones deliver music with a frequency range of 10 Hz to 40 kHz. They come with an impedance of 80 ohms and a sensitivity of 97 dB/mW at 1 kHz.

    Comfortable Design

    The earcups are shielded with an aluminium-magnesium alloy grille, while the memory foam earpads are wrapped in velvety covers that are easy to replace. The earcups connect to a headband made of stainless steel-zinc alloy, featuring ball bearing sliders for a seamless size adjustment. Weighing in at 330 g (11.6 oz.), the JT3 is designed for comfort.

    Customization Options

    The JT3 includes detachable 3.5 mm cables, giving users the option to swap or modify them to fit their preferences. The Fiio JT3 open-back headphones are available in black on Amazon, while the silver version can be found at the Fiio store on AliExpress.

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    Fiio Launches JadeAudio JT3 Hi-Fi Open-Back HeadphonesFiio Launches JadeAudio JT3 Hi-Fi Open-Back Headphones

     

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  • HEDD Launches HEDDphone D1 Reference Headphones with Carbon Diaphragms

    HEDD Launches HEDDphone D1 Reference Headphones with Carbon Diaphragms

    Key Takeaways

    1. Advanced Technology: The HEDDphone D1 features thin-ply carbon diaphragms (TPCDs) for improved audio response, with a frequency range of 5 Hz to 40 kHz.

    2. Comfortable Design: Open-back construction provides a wider soundstage, and perforated velour earpads ensure comfort for long use.

    3. Included Accessories: Comes with a protective case, two Y-cables with dual 3.5 mm mono connectors, and a 6.35 mm adapter.

    4. Quality Assurance: Handcrafted in Berlin and backed by a five-year warranty for durability and reliability.

    5. Pricing and Availability: Priced at $799/€699, available through authorized dealers.

    HEDD (Heinz Electrodynamic Design) has introduced their new open-back HEDDphone D1 reference headphones, which are specifically made for precise monitoring in music production and recording settings.

    Advanced Technology

    The HEDDphone D1 features thin-ply carbon diaphragms (TPCDs) that utilize technology from Composite Sound. This innovative approach offers greater stiffness than conventional materials, resulting in a finely tuned audio response. According to the company, this design allows the drivers to achieve a frequency response ranging from 5 Hz to 40 kHz, ensuring excellent clarity and quick transient responses. The headphones have an impedance of 32 ohms and can reach a maximum SPL of 100 dB at 1 mW.

    Comfortable Design

    With an open-back construction, these headphones deliver a wider, more immersive soundstage. HEDD states that the perforated velour earpads enable prolonged comfort during extended use. Included with the headphones are a protective case and two Y-cables featuring dual 3.5 mm (1/8-inch) mono connectors. A 6.35 mm (1/4-inch) adapter is also provided. The total weight of the headphones is 350 g (12.3 oz.).

    Quality Assurance

    Handcrafted in Berlin, the HEDDphone D1 reference headphones are backed by a five-year warranty. They are priced at $799/€699 and can be purchased through authorized dealers.

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    HEDD Launches HEDDphone D1 Reference Headphones with Carbon DiaphragmsHEDD Launches HEDDphone D1 Reference Headphones with Carbon Diaphragms

     

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  • Sennheiser HD 550: Open-Back Headphones for Audiophiles & Gamers

    Sennheiser HD 550: Open-Back Headphones for Audiophiles & Gamers

    Key Takeaways

    1. Custom Sound Quality: The HD 550 headphones feature a custom-designed 38mm transducer, offering a frequency range from 6 Hz to 39.5 kHz and low total harmonic distortion.

    2. Comfortable Design: Weighing 237 grams, these headphones have breathable metal mesh earcups and a gentle clamp force, making them suitable for long listening sessions.

    3. Modular Features: The modular design allows for easy replacement of cables and earpads, enhancing user convenience and customization.

    4. Target Audience: The HD 550 is designed for both audiophiles and gamers, providing clear spatial audio, rich bass, and balanced sound.

    5. Pricing and Availability: The headphones are available for pre-order at $299.95 USD, with shipping starting in the first week of April.

    Sennheiser has launched the HD 550, a pair of open-back headphones that cater to audiophiles and gamers who value clear sound, comfort, and a deeply engaging listening experience.

    Specifications and Features

    The HD 550 features a custom-designed 38mm transducer made at Sennheiser’s facility in Ireland, providing a frequency range from 6 Hz to 39.5 kHz with a total harmonic distortion of less than 0.2%. With an impedance of 150 ohms, these headphones work well with various audio devices, including Sennheiser’s HDV 820 amplifier. The open-back style, paired with an acoustic mesh, enhances airflow and enriches the soundstage, while the angled drivers create a more natural listening experience.

    Design and Comfort

    Klaus Hanselmann, who is the Audiophile Product Manager at Sennheiser, describes this model as a mix of detail and comfort: “The HD 550 offers precise sound, rich bass, and a lightweight design—ideal for extended listening periods.” Weighing in at 237 grams (8.4 oz), the headphones have a gentle clamp force, breathable metal mesh earcups, and a robust headband that ensures longevity. Gamers will appreciate the clear spatial audio, and music lovers can look forward to balanced mids and accurate transients.

    Modularity and Accessories

    The modular design means users can easily change cables and earpads. The package comes with a 1.8-meter cable featuring both 3.5mm and 6.35mm adapters, and there are additional balanced or microphone-compatible cables available for purchase separately.

    Pricing and Release Date

    The HD 550 is currently available for pre-order, with shipping set to begin in the first week of April. The starting price is $299.95 USD ($399.95 CAD). Last month, Sennheiser also released the HD 505 open-back headphones. These headphones come equipped with a 120-ohm transducer, a frequency range of 12–38,500 Hz, and provide a wide soundstage. Their price is EUR 279.90 / USD 249.95, and they can be purchased through Amazon and Sennheiser’s official website.

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    Sennheiser HD 550: Open-Back Headphones for Audiophiles & GamersSennheiser HD 550: Open-Back Headphones for Audiophiles & Gamers

     

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  • Sennheiser Launches Affordable HD 550 Open-Back Headphones

    Sennheiser Launches Affordable HD 550 Open-Back Headphones

    Key Takeaways

    1. Open-Back Design: The HD 550 headphones feature an acoustic mesh for an expansive soundstage, enhancing audio experiences for gamers and music lovers.

    2. High-Quality Audio Specs: Equipped with 38 mm drivers, these headphones deliver a frequency range of 6 Hz to 39.5 kHz with less than 0.2% total harmonic distortion.

    3. Comfortable for Long Use: Designed with a cushioned headband and soft earpads, the lightweight HD 550 ensures comfort during extended listening sessions.

    4. Gamer-Friendly Connectivity: The 1.8 m cable supports 3.5 mm and 6.35 mm plugs, eliminating Bluetooth delays and battery life concerns for gamers.

    5. Affordable Price Point: Set to retail for $299.95 upon launch in April, the HD 550 offers high performance for both audiophiles and gamers.

    Sennheiser recently introduced their HD 550 open-back headphones, which cater to both gamers and fans of contemporary music. The headphones feature an acoustic mesh over each ear cup, allowing sound to flow freely and providing a vast soundstage, something that closed-back headphones can’t replicate.

    Impressive Audio Specs

    The HD 550 is equipped with 38 mm drivers that deliver a broad frequency range from 6 Hz to 39.5 kHz, boasting less than 0.2% total harmonic distortion (THD) at 150 ohms. This extended frequency range ensures that high-resolution audio files from streaming services like Qobuz are reproduced with remarkable detail.

    Comfortable Design for Extended Use

    The headphones come with a cushioned, synthetic leather headband and a low-clamping force design, along with soft earpads, which make them comfy for long listening sessions. Weighing only 237 grams (8.4 oz.), the HD 550 is easy to wear for hours on end.

    Gamer-Friendly Features

    For gamers, the long 1.8 m (5.9 ft.) cable can easily connect to 3.5 mm plugs or, using the provided adapter, to 6.35 mm plugs. This feature helps avoid the frustrating delays often associated with Bluetooth headphones, as well as worries about battery life.

    The Sennheiser HD 550 is set to retail for $299.95 when it launches in April, and it will also be available for purchase on Amazon via the Sennheiser store.

    The new HD 550 offers an appealing option for audiophiles and gamers looking for superior performance that exceeds its price point.

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  • Sennheiser HD 505 Headphones Launch in China for Audiophile Sound

    Sennheiser HD 505 Headphones Launch in China for Audiophile Sound

    Key Takeaways

    1. Sennheiser has launched the HD 505 open-back wired headphones in China, priced at 2,199 yuan ($303).
    2. The HD 505 features 120-ohm dynamic transducers, providing a frequency range of 12Hz to 38.5kHz for accurate sound.
    3. Weighing 237 grams, the headphones are designed for comfort during long listening sessions with plush padding and a lightweight headband.
    4. The headphones ensure high-quality audio with a maximum sound pressure level of 107.9 dB and less than 0.2% distortion at 1 kHz.
    5. The HD 505 comes with a 1.8-meter detachable cable and a 6.35mm adapter for compatibility with various audio equipment.

    Sennheiser is broadening its high-end audio range in China with the debut of the HD 505, a brand new set of open-back wired headphones targeted at audiophiles. Initially launched earlier this year worldwide, the HD 505 is now officially up for grabs in China through JD.com at a starting price of 2,199 yuan ($303).

    Sennheiser HD 505 Specs

    Featuring the trademark Sennheiser sound quality, the HD 505 is crafted to provide accurate and immersive sound, owing to its open-back over-ear design. It is equipped with 120-ohm dynamic transducers, designed to cover a broad frequency range from 12Hz to 38.5kHz. The company has refined its audio output by adjusting the damping ring situated behind the transducer, leading to smoother highs and a controlled bass that keeps clarity throughout the audio range.

    Comfortable for Long Listening

    Weighing in at only 237 grams, the HD 505 is engineered for extended listening periods without causing fatigue. It showcases a flexible and lightweight headband with plush padding for enhanced comfort. The design is inspired by Sennheiser’s HD 500 series, now upgraded with an elegant black look highlighted by delicate gold accents. The headphones come with a 1.8-meter detachable cable that ends in a 3.5mm plug, and a 6.35mm adapter is also provided to ensure compatibility with various professional audio equipment.

    Quality Sound for Discerning Listeners

    Sennheiser has meticulously designed the HD 505 to satisfy the needs of picky listeners. The laminated diaphragm extends both low and high frequencies while maintaining clarity, and a lightweight voice coil captures subtle details. With a maximum sound pressure level of 107.9 dB and distortion below 0.2% at 1 kHz, these headphones guarantee a pristine, distortion-free audio experience.

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    Sennheiser HD 505 Headphones Launch in China for Audiophile Sound
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  • Audio-Technica R-Series Open-Back Headphones Launch at NAMM Show

    Audio-Technica R-Series Open-Back Headphones Launch at NAMM Show

    Audio-Technica recently introduced three new open-back reference headphones during the NAMM Show 2025: the ATH-R70xa, ATH-R50x, and ATH-R30x.

    Enhanced Sound Experience

    The R-Series headphones come with an open-back design that avoids the muddiness often caused by sound bouncing around in closed-back ear cups. This design allows for a sound reproduction that is more lively, natural, and spacious, helping audio professionals create higher-quality productions. Additionally, the open design promotes air circulation, preventing heat build-up around the ears.

    Product Specifications

    The ATH-R70xa weighs 199 g (7.0 oz.) and features a 45 mm driver that operates within a frequency range of 5 to 40,000 Hz. It is capable of handling a maximum input power of 1,000 mW at an impedance of 470 ohms, offering a sensitivity rating of 97 dB/mW.

    On the other hand, the ATH-R50x weighs 207 g (7.3 oz.) and also uses a 45 mm driver with the same frequency response of 5 to 40,000 Hz. It can manage a maximum input power of 1,600 mW at 50 ohms, with a sensitivity of 93.3 dB/mW.

    Pricing and Availability

    The ATH-R30x, employing a 40 mm driver, has a frequency response of 15 to 25,000 Hz. It handles a maximum input power of 1,000 mW at 36 ohms and has a sensitivity of 92 dB/mW.

    The ATH-R70xa is priced at $349 and can be found on Amazon. The ATH-R50x is available for $159 on Amazon. Lastly, the ATH-R30x is expected to retail for $99 and will be available in Spring 2025 from the Audio-Technica store on Amazon.

    Audio-Technica is expanding its lineup of headphones with the new R-Series open-back models, providing exceptional clarity, natural soundscapes, and comfort suitable for all kinds of audio production.

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  • Hifiman HE1000 Headphones: Magnetic Veil & Stealth Magnet Tech

    Hifiman HE1000 Headphones: Magnetic Veil & Stealth Magnet Tech

    The Hifiman HE1000 UNVEILED headphones represent an innovative blend of cutting-edge technology and user-friendly design, providing an exceptional audio experience. Equipped with Magnetic Planar Driver technology and an open-back structure, these headphones cater to audiophiles seeking an immersive sound journey.

    Key Features

    • Magnetic Planar Driver Unit with a Nanometer-Thin Diaphragm
    • Advanced Asymmetrical Magnetic Circuit to minimize distortion
    • Unique UNVEILED Design to lessen sound reflection
    • Variety of cable options including 3.5mm, 6.35mm, and balanced 4-pin XLR
    • Open Back Ear Cup Design for an expansive soundstage

    Magnetic Planar Driver Unit

    The Hifiman HE1000 UNVEILED headphones feature a Magnetic Planar Driver with a Nanometer-Thin Diaphragm. This technology guarantees a highly detailed audio experience, offering quick response times and a natural sound signature that music lovers will appreciate.

    Advanced Asymmetrical Magnetic Circuit

    The headphones utilize a distinctive asymmetrical magnetic circuit design that significantly reduces interference and distortion. This results in a clearer and more engaging listening experience, enhancing the overall sound quality.

    UNVEILED Design

    The innovative “UNVEILED” design of the Hifiman HE1000 minimizes sound reflection. This approach involves removing the back panel (referred to as the Magnetic Veil) during use, which reduces sound reflections. By eliminating the grill that can hinder the movement of the nanometer-thin diaphragm, the design allows for a completely open diaphragm. Consequently, listeners can enjoy a wider soundstage with clearer and more detailed audio, creating a more natural and immersive experience.

    Multi-cable Options

    To ensure versatility across various audio systems, the Hifiman HE1000 UNVEILED headphones come with detachable cables offering multiple connection types, including 3.5mm, 6.35mm, and a balanced 4-pin XLR. This flexibility allows for easy integration with different audio sources.

    Open Back Ear Cup Design

    The open-back ear cup design enhances the natural and airy soundstage, simulating the experience of attending a live concert. This design is particularly advantageous for those who appreciate spatial audio effects.

    What’s in the Box?

    • Hifiman HE1000 UNVEILED Headphones
    • 3.5mm single-ended earphone cable
    • 6.35mm single-ended headphone cable
    • Four-core XLR balanced headphone cable

    Price and Availability

    The Hifiman HE1000 UNVEILED headphones are available for $3399 and can be purchased from Geekwills. This exciting new offering brings high-end audio performance to a wider audience.

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  • Xiaomi to Enter Open-Back Headphones Market on April 10th

    Xiaomi to Enter Open-Back Headphones Market on April 10th

    Xiaomi will expand their product lineup at an April 10th launch event by unveiling their inaugural open-back headphones and the Redmi Turbo 3 and Pad Pro models.

    Xiaomi Unveils New Earphones

    Only limited details regarding Xiaomi’s newly unveiled earphones are currently available, however an image shared on Weibo by their promotion shows their design and colors; cream white and white options being featured respectively on both earbuds as well as their case with its sleek flat design featuring LED indicator on central frame.

    Anticipated Features

    Details regarding Xiaomi’s first open-back earphones remain undisclosed; however, expectations suggest a focus on extended battery life and comfortable wear-alike with other similar products available on the market.

    Open-back earphones differ from conventional in-ear models by resting outside the ear canal for an open-ear listening experience. These models typically use bone conduction or air conduction technologies to deliver the sound; bone conduction involves sending vibrations directly through cheekbones into the inner ear without going through an eardrum, while air conduction relies on sound waves traveling along air currents to deliver audio content to inner ears directly from speakers.

    Market Trends

    Air conduction technology involves small speakers located close to your ears that direct soundwaves directly towards the ear canal, so Xiaomi may utilize air conduction in its future headphones.

    Open-back earphone sales have experienced exponential growth since 2023, driven by rising consumer demands for comfortable audio solutions. According to IDC research, sales reached 6.52 million units last year–an astounding year-on-year jump of 130.2%! This shift may indicate consumer preferences shifting away from true wireless and neck-mounted models.

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