open closed headphones?

[dannybek]

Whats the difference between open and closed headphones? Is one better than the other?

 

[Viper GTS]

http://www.headphone.com/guide.../full-size-headphones/

That covers the basics. In general I would go open unless you have a need for isolation.

Viper GTS

 

[krotchy]

I prefer open headphones personally, but that is because I want to hear outside sources while still getting the clarity of my HD-555's (I got mine for 70 bucks through a trade-in rebate, typically 100+). Closed headphones will do a better job of isolating you so all you hear is the sound of the source you are listening to. Both have advantages and disadvantages, but I find it falls down to preference.

 

[Rio Rebel]

I bought some Grado SR60's (open headphones), and I absolutely love the sound, BUT I can't use them at work because they are too loud. Make sure you take that into consideration - how isolated do you need to be?

 

[Viper GTS]

Originally posted by: Rio Rebel
I bought some Grado SR60's (open headphones), and I absolutely love the sound, BUT I can't use them at work because they are too loud. Make sure you take that into consideration - how isolated do you need to be?

That is definitely something to consider, isolation works both ways. You will definitely annoy people with SR-60's. Either that or they'll just yell at you that if they can hear your music that clearly you must be absolutely destroying your hearing.

Viper GTS

 

[aphex]

Closed headphone always tend to make my ears hot over any length of time, so I prefer Open. However, I do like the added bass the closed design allows.

 

[BassBomb]

I like my closed ones MDR300

 

[potato28]

I like my DT 770's, they don't seem to get hot after a few hours.