Type of Headphones

A beginner-friendly introduction to key specifications, helping new users understand the basics and choose the headphones that best suit their needs.

1. Driver Unit

   All else being equal, the larger the diameter of the driver unit, the better the overall performance of the headphones. However, larger drivers also tend to result in higher impedance, requiring more power to drive effectively.

2. Sensitivity

   Headphone sensitivity directly affects how easily the headphones produce sound. A headphone with high sensitivity requires less power to reach the same volume level.

3. Impedance

   Impedance is the resistance headphones present to the electrical current, measured in ohms (Ω).
   For mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets, it is recommended to use headphones with impedance no higher than 32Ω, ensuring they are easily driven and provide stable sound quality.
   If the headphones have higher impedance, they require an audio source with sufficient output power to fully deliver their sound quality.
   For example, headphones with 64Ω impedance should ideally be paired with devices capable of matching that output (such as a headphone amplifier or professional audio equipment) to avoid issues like low volume or distortion.

4. Closed-back vs. Open-back Headphones

   Closed-back headphones offer excellent noise isolation due to their sealed earcup design, making them less affected by ambient noise and delivering stronger, more focused bass. However, they can feel warmer and less breathable during extended use.
   Open-back headphones, on the other hand, are more ventilated and comfortable for long listening sessions. They deliver a more natural and spacious sound but are more susceptible to external noise and are not ideal for noisy environments.

5. Planar Magnetic vs. Dynamic Headphones

   Dynamic headphones are the most common type, using the movement of a diaphragm, voice coil, and magnet to produce sound. Generally, larger dynamic driver units can offer better performance.
   Planar magnetic headphones use two parallel magnetic plates to hold a thin diaphragm, which moves via current flowing through the magnetic field.
   They offer more refined sound with lower distortion compared to dynamic headphones. However, they require more power to drive, are heavier due to the magnets, and are typically more expensive.

6. Studio Headphones vs. HiFi Headphones

   Studio headphones are designed for professional environments such as recording or broadcasting, emphasizing accurate and uncolored sound reproduction.
   HiFi (High-Fidelity) headphones are optimized for music enjoyment. While they maintain a close-to-original sound profile, they often enhance certain aspects to deliver a more pleasing and immersive listening experience.