Audiophiles favor open-back headphones for their natural soundstage and comfortable listening experience. Unlike closed-back models, open-back headphones allow air and sound to pass through the ear cups, creating a more immersive audio environment. Throughout this year, we’ve seen a lot of new releases that proved to be exciting additions to the open-back headphone market. Some have even set a new standard for headphone design and technology. From elite audiophile models to more accessible options, we’ve curated a selection that will enhance your listening experience. Here are some of the best open-back headphones to be released in 2024.
1. HiFiMAN Susvara Unveiled
Although the new version of HiFiMAN’s flagship effort is the priciest on this list, it is one of the best of 2024 without a doubt. The Susvara Unveiled is a new endgame headphone for anyone who loves rich, crystal-clear sound. Its magnetic veil is a new benchmark in high-end open-back headphone design, which requires even more care, but more than makes up for it with its sonic abilities.
2. HiFiMAN Mini Shangri La
If you couldn’t already tell, HiFiMAN kind of won the year, at least in this writer’s opinion. Nothing convinced me more of that than hearing the Mini Shangri La for the first time. These new electrostatic headphones are an offshoot of their super-premium Shangri La. HiFiMAN has scaled down the price significantly, and while these are still high-end headphones, the price point is much more reasonable. What isn’t scaled down though, is the sound signature, which offers all the transparency and immersion possible.
3. Audeze MM-100
Coming down to a more affordable range, we have the Audeze MM-100. This year, the acclaimed brand known for popular audiophile headphones like the LCD-X decided to introduce a new entry-level option to its catalog. Its primary function is for mixing, carrying a balanced sound profile that still holds tons of detail. The dual cable connectors are also a plus, making the MM-100 a very versatile audio production tool.
4. Sivga P2 Pro
Another more economical open-back headphones to be released this year is the Sivga P2 Pro. The P2 Pro performs well beyond its price point, with a warm sound signature that is detailed and wide. It stands out from the pack with its excellent design, combining Sivga’s classic wood craftsmanship and a sturdy gunmetal frame.
5. Abyss Diana DZ
The Diana series from Abyss is as prestigious as any high-end headphone line on the market. In 2024, they released the DZ, which contains an expansive soundstage, lush midrange detail, and a dynamic bass response. The Diana DZ also continues the series’ exquisite build quality, complete with their large earpads that provide comfort through many hours of listening.
6. Austrian Audio The Composer
This year, Austrian Audio came out with their most premium headphone for critical listening and production. The Composer is a very unique headphone, with a lightweight build and adjustable ear cups. Its sound is super accurate and precise, with a semi-holographic soundstage bringing everything together for one of the cleanest-sounding dynamic driver headphones around.
7. Fiio FT5
One of the biggest surprises for me this year is the Fiio FT5. I usually enjoy Fiio’s DAPs, DAC/Amps, IEMs, and other accessories, and they rarely release a set of over-ear headphones. With the FT5, Fiio has a serious pair of planar headphones that has become one of my favorites to revisit. Its construction is very heavy-duty and extremely comfortable. The sound is very detailed across the spectrum thanks to its massive 90mm planar driver.
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