Headphone Reviews

Open-back headphones with open-back ear cups tend to sound more spacious because the backsides of their drivers are free to radiate sound with minimal reflections. Here are a few examples.

Philips Fidelio X1 ($399)
The X1’s headband automatically compensates for different head and ear shapes and sizes. When you put it on, it feels right, no fussing required. The sound is nice and open. usa.philips.com

AKG K812 ($1,500)
The K812 is, without a doubt, the most open-sounding headphone I’ve ever listened to. Stereo imaging is breathtakingly expansive. Midrange purity is as good as it gets. us.akg.com