Type

Used open-back headphones

An open-back headphone lets the back of each driver breathe through a grille or an open frame, so sound leaks out and the room leaks in. In return it sounds less shut in, which is why so many studio and hi-fi classics are built this way. Most of the dynamic models here are open-backs, from the Sennheiser HD 414 to the Grado SR series. Used, look through the grille in the photos for dents or a torn dust screen, check the pads, since foam and velour wear out, and look at the cable where it enters each cup. Wear them somewhere quiet, because everyone near you will hear them.

18 models we cover.