If you’re looking for the best listening experience while you travel, invest in a pair of closed-back headphones. Whether you want to zone out with some music, or watch your favorite movie on an airplane, this style of headphones might be your best bet.
What’s The Difference Between Closed Back and Open Back Headphones?
According to Headphonesty, open back headphones have “ear cups [that] are left open for airflow. As a result, the inside of the ear cup is exposed to the environment, letting the sound flow into your ears and the space around you.”
These headphones allow users to enjoy their music, while still being able to interact with their environment.
These are attractive to sound professionals, which could explain why they tend to be more expensive. The sound they produce is described as “clear” and “more realistic.”
As for closed back headphones? They have airtight ear cups, which keep the sound enclosed. You won’t have to worry about other passengers on that airplane or bus hearing your music. However, they don’t always allow much “breathing room” for your ears.
Pack any of these headphones in your bag during your next trip.
Sennheiser HD 569 Closed Back Headphones
Sennheiser has been in the sound business for almost 80 years. As such, they know a thing or two about it, and they keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
This model is ideal for people who want an isolated, but clear listening experience. Moreover, they sit securely, but comfortably on the ears, and the headband is light.
The ear pads are soft and replaceable. Two cords come with the headphones: a 3 meter detachable cable (fitted with a 6.3 millimeter jack) and a 1.2 meter cable (with 3.5 millimeter jack).
Audeze LCD-XC Closed Back Headphones
The price tag is hefty here for a reason. They are the latest model from the Audeze line, and provide exquisite sound. There’s increased isolation, and decreased background and ambient sound, thanks to the closed back design.
Some users say these headphones are slightly on the heavy side, but the sound quality is beyond dispute. Each music instrument is clearly articulated, making for a memorable listening experience.
You won’t want to go back to a lower quality model after using these. As one user put it, it would be like returning to having coffee in a can, when you’ve had fresh, high quality coffee.
Focal Stellia Closed-Back Headphones
Here, functionality meets style. These cognac-colored headphones by the Focal store, deliver great sound and they are visually pleasing.
Made in France, these headphones offer the following: accurate reproduction of even the tiniest sounds (at low and high frequencies), incredible dynamics, and excellent soundproofing against ambient noise.
Lastly, the materials are high quality, which furthers the excellence of the product.
Neumann NDH 20 Closed Back Headphones
These closed back headphones from the Neumann company are best suited for gaming, mixing, video or audio production. Singers and voice over talent can also use them for their projects.
Enjoy high isolation sound, even if your immediate environment isn’t completely quiet.
These headphones are well-crafted, so you can wear them for long periods without discomfort. They can be folded easily- allowing for easy transport, and they come with two detachable cables (coiled and straight).
Soundcore Anker Life Q20 Closed Back Headphones
These wireless headphones are not only great for travel, but for home and office. According to the manufacturer, Soundcore, the incredible sound is loved by over 20 million people worldwide.
Among its many features, these headphones have fantastic bass. This makes them a great choice for folks who like listening to hip-hop, EDM and other genres which are bass heavy.
Along with the headphones, the following accessories are in the box: micro-USB cable, aux cable, user manual and a travel pouch.
