Open-back headphones will usually have trade-offs, it is clear that the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back has them. To start, it has an increased size that will most likely annoy nearby co-workers or fellow commuters because of sound leakage. Add that to the heft in its price tag, and it can be quite hard to recommend them. However, this pair is not built for outdoor use as it is made for giving rich sound quality to be used indoors. In terms of audio performance alone, it can immediately make a lot of audiophiles automatically reach for their wallets.
The Audeze EL-8 Open-Back is Great for Audiophiles Who Want an Ideal Balance in Their Favorite Tracks
Even though the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back is, well, the open-back pair, it should also be noted that there are other variation of the headphone that are available. Since this an open-back headphone, it allows sound to project outward from the earcups. This creates a more spacious and fuller soundstage. However, this also means that sound leakage is more prominent, and those around you are able to hear your taste in music. Therefore, it may not be the most ideal headphone to bring out in public.
The open-back model of the Audeze EL-8 has an open nature in terms of design. This means that it will block out less of the ambient noise within the room than what a sealed pair of headphones can do. In other words, you will be able to hear the chatter of your officemates unless the volume of your music will drown them out.
In terms of design, the device is not subtle, nor it requires enough reason to be. It has a massive size but this is not to say that the unit is not, in any way, premium-looking. It has wood veneer accents and brushed black metallic outer panels. With these elements, it is clear that it bring a sense of sophistication towards its looks.
Each earcup house 100-millimeter Neodymium drivers and the headphone’s has a frequency response at 10hz to 50kHz. Music impedance is set at 30-ohms. The headphone is comfortable to wear because of the plush padding found on both the earpads. The headband also allows a good amount of comfort thanks to the precise ear-to-ear fit.
In terms of audio performance, the Audeze EL-8 Open-Back excels in bringing solid balance. There are robust lows and pristine highs. Bass levels are decent but it is clear that the headphone is not for those who want a more low-end sound profile. Overall, the headphone may not be ideal for practical use, but it delivers fantastic audio which might be more suitable for a home environment.