Open-back headphones are also referred to as open-ear headphones or open-air headphones. These headphones are designed in a way that keeps the back of the ear cups open, allowing the sound to leak out in a controlled manner. This feature creates a more natural and spacious sound for the listener, making them particularly suitable for critical listening and mixing. Other synonyms for open-back headphones include circumaural headphones, which completely enclose the ear, and over-ear headphones, which sit on top of the ear. On the other hand, closed-back headphones, or sealed headphones, are the opposite of open-back headphones and are designed to prevent sound from leaking out for noise isolation.