How headphones are designed

There are three different types of headphones categorized by their design, fit, and form factor: full-size, overhead, in-canal, and in-ear.

Full-size headphones, also known as covering, monitor, or arc headphones, are equipped with a headband and large ear cushions that fully cover the ears without exerting pressure on them. Although it is uncommon, there are headphones available without ear cushions, such as the AKG K1000. While full-size headphones offer a comfortable fit, they are bulkier and not ideal for use with headgear. These headphones are versatile in their usage. However, closed monitor headphones do not provide the highest level of noise isolation and lack sufficient sensitivity for use with portable audio sources, requiring amplification. As a result, monitor headphones are primarily used indoors, particularly in recording studios.

Patch headphones offer a more compact design, making them highly portable. The earmuffs provide a snug fit against the ears, with the speaker positioned closer to the ear. As a result, over-ear headphones tend to have greater sensitivity compared to their full-size counterparts. On-ear headphones are ideal for short-term use, although the pressure of the earmuffs against the ears can be a factor.

In-canal (vacuum) headphones are directly inserted into the ear canal, creating a sort of vacuum effect. These headphones are secured in place by silicone ear cushions. With the transmitter in close proximity to the ear, in-canal headphones enable you to enjoy music at lower volumes without sacrificing sound clarity. They are commonly used for outdoor activities, commuting, and sports.

• Compact size for easy portability
• Passive noise isolation provided by closed headphones
• Versatility for various situations
• High sensitivity

Disadvantage: excessive volume when listening to music can result in hearing damage.

Earmuffs, or earbuds, are headphones that are designed to be worn inside the ear, rather than being inserted into the ear canal. They are typically open or semi-open in design, allowing some external sounds to pass through due to their loose fit in the ear canal. One of the main advantages of in-ear headphones is their compact size and affordable price (excluding AirPods). They are convenient to use while outdoors, although they can be disruptive to other passengers when used in transportation if the headphones are open.

By type of emitters

Headphone drivers come in five different types: dynamic, armature, planar, electrostatic, and hybrid.

Dynamic headphones are the most popular choice among consumers due to their constantly improving technology and ability to produce high-quality sound at an affordable price. The inner workings of dynamic headphones operate on a similar principle to the speaker driver found in a loudspeaker. A magnetic coil is connected to a diaphragm. When an electric current flows through the coil, it generates a magnetic field that interacts with the diaphragm. As the field (alternating current) fluctuates, the diaphragm vibrates, producing various sound frequencies.

Armature headphones have been gaining significant traction thanks to their ability to deliver high sound detail in a compact form factor. These headphones are commonly employed for sound monitoring during live concerts. Due to the compact nature of armature drivers, multiple drivers can be incorporated into a single headphone, with each driver catering to a specific frequency range such as HF, LF, and midrange.

Electrostatic headphones are considered as premium, luxury headphones. These headphones produce sound through the vibrations of an extremely thin membrane within a magnetic field located between two grid-stators. Manufacturing these headphones is an expensive endeavor, and they also require a powerful amplifier. However, electrostatic headphones are known for their exceptional sound reproduction and quick response time. As a result, professionals and music enthusiasts who value top-notch sound quality are willing to invest a significant amount of money in order to enjoy an exceptional auditory experience.

There are two types of planar headphones: isodynamic and orthodynamic. Both types are similar in technology, making it difficult for the average listener to distinguish them by ear. Isodynamic headphones operate on a principle similar to electrostatic headphones. They have a diaphragm with a flat coil that oscillates between the stators, but the signal is applied directly to the diaphragm instead of the stators. While isodynamic headphones offer a quick response similar to electrostatic headphones, they may lack in sound detail.

Hybrid headphones are designed as a complete package, merging various driver technologies within a singular body. These headphones commonly take the form of in-ear models, featuring a combination of both dynamic and armature drivers.

A headset operates by receiving a transmission from a source through various wireless technologies. Depending on this, the models establish connections with diverse devices.

Methods of transmitting data:

1. Radio communication is a reliable form of connection. These models can have a range of over 10 meters. They use channels to transmit sound with a frequency of up to 2.4 GHz. However, these products are not portable as they require a transmitter to be installed for operation. This design can be inconvenient to carry around.
2. Bluetooth is a versatile technology for transmitting data. It typically operates at a frequency of 2.5 GHz. Headphones can connect to any device that has this module using this protocol. These devices offer stability and do not experience connection loss. They are also convenient to take on the go. Special coding is used to protect data from interception.
3. Infared products operate by transmitting signals through high-frequency pulsation. These products include a built-in receiver that can amplify the audio signals it receives. However, please note that these models are not suitable for mobile music listening, as they require a 220 V connection for data transmission.

Wireless Bluetooth headphones are incredibly convenient to pair with various devices. To do this, ensure that the product’s signaling LED is lit, indicating that it is ready to be paired. Then, search for available connections on your portable device. To ensure a stable connection, add the headphones to your trusted devices. Once this is done, the sound will be broadcasted through the headset rather than external speakers.

Now, let’s take a quick look at the different terms used to describe the various components of headphones.

Ear cushion

The terms ear pads or ear cushions are commonly used in the English language.

In the context of in-ear headphones, the ear cushion serves a dual purpose: it secures the headphones in the ear and contributes to noise isolation.

Having proper noise isolation is crucial for enjoying high-quality music in a comfortable manner.

Jack wire

The English word "Jack" is derived from the term "Jack".

The jack can come in various shapes and sizes, with the most popular ones being 6.3 mm, 3.5 mm, and 2.5 mm. The size refers to the diameter of the jack’s cross-section, so a 3.5mm jack would have a diameter of 3.5mm.

This brings me smoothly to the most promising technology, in my opinion, when it comes to dynamic range: ribbon drivers. In everyday life, you can find them in certain stationary speakers as tweeters (radiators for high frequencies).

The use of ribbon radiator type is not very common in headphones. In fact, there is only one representative of it among commercially produced models – the Raal SR1A, which has a very high price tag and is not officially distributed in the CIS.

The ribbon driver is designed to be incredibly simple, even simpler than the corner of a house. In fact, the most basic version of the driver consists of just two magnets and a piece of corrugated foil. This minimalist design not only makes it easy to manufacture, but from an acoustics standpoint, it is the most ideal option. Having fewer parts and connections improves the overall performance. The tape movement is smooth and unhindered, with the only obstacle being a protective mesh that may be added. For more advanced versions of the driver, a magnetic conductor can be incorporated along the contour to further enhance the magnetic field in the working area.

Most importantly, the dynamic range is significantly better than any other option available. The ribbon’s travel can be adjusted depending on the installation method. Additionally, in stationary loudspeakers, such a radiator is only used in the high frequency link, where it performs exceptionally well. This can be attributed to the ribbon’s isotropy, as there is no layer interaction or glue present. As a result, the friction force is limited to the friction force of a solid metal. In the case of a 15 micron layer of aluminum, these forces are minimal. Due to the absence of additional layers such as film and glue, this emitter surpasses a magnetoplanar emitter by default.

Naturally, there are certain nuances to consider. The ribbon in this radiator must be corrugated to allow for elasticity of the metal and prevent twisting. This shape provides a larger amplitude of oscillations. Therefore, it is essential to create a ribbon that does not exceed its elastic limit when fully straightened during transmission, avoiding plastic deformations. To prevent excessive pressure, a small gap is included between the ribbon and magnets as a safeguard against deformation. In this case, the strength of the ribbon is comparable, if not slightly superior, to the strength of the membrane found in magnetoplar headphones. In fact, based on experiences, planar membranes tend to tear specifically where there is no glue or metal, but rather on the ribbon itself. For example, the frequent occurrence of membrane damage in the well-known brand Audeze has been documented on various forums, causing frustration among disappointed owners. It’s important to note that our discussion focuses on fully open headphones, which offer optimal acoustic performance. Unfortunately, closed models pose additional complexities, therefore I consider strictly open lid models as the benchmark for sound reproduction quality.

Checking for quality

Once the operation is finished, it is necessary to test the functionality of the repaired headphones. Plug them into any player, smartphone, or stereo system and play some music. At this point, there should be no noticeable consequences from accidental cable touches, so we can only be delighted with the outcome.

How the contact plug is organized

Prior to commencing the soldering process, it can be advantageous to familiarize oneself with the structure of the connector plug for stereo headphones. Presented below is a diagram illustrating its configuration. Within the headphone cable, three wires can be found: the right channel wire (typically red), the left channel wire (green, white, or yellow), and the ground wire (in this instance, copper in color).

There is no separation of the right and left channels on mono headphone plugs. The soldering pins will have different sizes depending on the plug. During soldering, it is important to avoid creating any electrical connections between the pins, especially with the ground, as this can result in a short circuit when connecting the headphones to a device, potentially causing them to malfunction. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the cable ends (refer to point 2) are not exposed more than necessary for soldering.

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Photo credit: manufacturer companies, Andrey Kireev

The most common issue that users face is the inability to connect their headphones. This often happens because users forget to activate the pairing mode on their headphones before trying to connect them to their smartphones.

It is important to note that the pairing mode only stays active for a limited period of time. If no connections are made within this time frame, the pairing mode may automatically turn off.

To avoid this issue, always pay attention to the indicator light on your headphones. This light will provide valuable information about the current state of your headphones.

Another common problem is when the headphones produce sound at a very low volume. We have previously addressed this issue in detail in one of our articles, explaining why it happens and providing instructions on how to fix it yourself.

Now that you are aware of the functioning of wireless headphones for your phone, TV, and computer, let’s delve into a few more captivating subjects:




• An in-depth guide on how to repair headphones on your own



• Are your headphones producing low sound? Troubleshooting them using Huawei FreeBuds as an example



What you should know before buying

Indeed, armature headphones can be slightly more costly compared to dynamic headphones. The primary reason for this discrepancy lies in the intricate manufacturing process involved.

Similar to any other product, balanced armature headphones have both their advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider certain features when selecting headphones of this type:

Unlike dynamic headphones, armature headphones can come in the most unique and unconventional designs.

Enthusiasts of deep, immersive bass should take note of the presence of additional volume in the housing, or the inclusion of extra drivers. Hybrid headphones were developed to deliver a satisfying level of bass, with traditional speakers handling the low frequencies and armature radiators producing the mid and high frequencies.

• Armature headphones are known for their flat frequency response and ability to reproduce sound without the characteristic frequency boost in a certain range that is found in dynamic drivers.
• Having fewer drivers has a positive impact on the naturalness and clarity of the sound.
• The impedance of armature headphones barely affects their sensitivity.

When selecting armature headphones, it is important to keep in mind that the higher price should be justified, and each listener’s preferences are unique. Comparing armature headphones and traditional dynamic headphones in the same category, it becomes evident that armature headphones deliver a cleaner and more natural sound, lacking in deep bass and lower frequencies, but are slightly inferior to dynamic headphones in noisy environments. Otherwise, it is best to simply listen and judge for yourself.

Prepared with informational support from Westone.

This specific kind of headphone has the capability of providing precise and detailed sound with great nuance. These headphones are well-known for having minimal acoustic distortion and a well-balanced sound across all frequencies. Armature headphones. Prepared with information support from Westone. The average person listening to music often connects any sound-producing device with a circular diaphragm and a coil that is housed within a magnetic field. When an electric current passes through, it creates a magnetic field which…

Device headphones, their main components

There are two primary types of headphone designs:

• Headband style – overhead, monitor;
• Headband-free style – intrachannel or "earbuds".

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Yes, it is indeed possible. How can you achieve it? You can use an adapter that connects to a standard 3.5mm jack or USB port. These adapters function as transmitters, and you can easily find a universal version in many electronics stores or order one from China. The process of connecting the headphones is not much more complicated than connecting them to an Android phone.

1. First, connect the adapter and navigate to the "Bluetooth" option in the "Control Panel".
2. Next, activate the pairing mode on the headphones (we have discussed this earlier).
3. Now, patiently wait for the system to detect your headphones.
4. Finally, select the device from the list (there will most likely be only one option).

Generally, Windows 10 does not require any additional drivers. However, if you are using an earlier operating system, you may need to install the drivers. In this case, the device will not be recognized by its make/model, but rather as an "unknown device". Simply right-click on it and select "Update Drivers" – this should resolve the issue.

. 1. Improving the sound quality of wireless bluetooth headphones

What are the techniques for enhancing the audio quality of wireless headphones? The process is similar to that of wired headphones, with some distinct aspects for the wireless ones. The key points are outlined below. Particularly for wireless headphones, the following techniques can be distinguished:

• Utilizing different sound settings such as an equalizer, volume control, and other audio enhancement tools. These settings can be accessed through standard operating system features. Since the sound in wireless headphones is transmitted digitally, the flexibility of adjusting the settings is greater compared to wired headphones.
• Changing the codec used to transmit audio. For instance, the SBC codec is not necessarily inferior to AAC. It is possible to experiment with different codecs and adjust the settings accordingly.
• Settings can be adjusted using an app, either provided by the headphone manufacturer or a third-party. These settings may include features such as upscaling (increasing bitrate and bit rate), sound profiles (equalizer plus effects), and more. Each of these examples could be explored further in separate articles, while other options for enhancing sound quality are discussed below.

When using ribbon radiators, there are certain peculiarities that need to be considered. One of the most important aspects is the electrical impedance, which is typically in the order of hundredths of an ohm. This means that conventional sources cannot be directly connected to these radiators. While it is technically possible to make the connection, there are no guarantees that the source will survive. In most cases, amplifiers have a short-circuit protection in the form of a resistor at the output. However, even if the amplifier doesn’t burn down, the sound will still be very quiet. The headphone outputs in the majority of devices can only output a current of about 50 mA, and in some special cases up to 100 mA. Unfortunately, this is not enough to power ribbon radiators effectively.

To ensure optimal performance, it is essential to have a close match between the electrical load and signal source, specifically in terms of their input and output impedances. Consequently, a signal source with minimal internal resistance is necessary. There are two ways to achieve this.

One approach is to utilize a transformer. However, it is important to note that special requirements exist for such a transformer. Ideally, the core should be composed of specialized iron with minimal hysteresis. In extreme cases, regular household voltage transformers made of ordinary iron can suffice. One winding should have a resistance comparable to the output resistance of the amplifier. Meanwhile, the second winding, typically made of litz wire, should consist of several turns with a resistance that is a few decimal places. It is crucial for the second winding to be connected as close to the ribbon as possible in order to minimize resistance. Even a meter of standard cable will have a resistance two orders of magnitude higher than that of the ribbon, resulting in a mismatch. Consequently, the transformer should be positioned directly at the ribbon. This can be somewhat inconvenient due to the weight of the headphones in this design. By the way, ribbon headphones are particularly well-suited for tube amplifiers that feature output transformers. However, in this scenario, a rather thick wire must be utilized.

One possible option involves creating a specialized amplifier. Essentially, you can take an existing powerful amplifier (preferably 5-10 W), and simply use an adapter with a ballast resistor. This resistor helps match the output of the amplifier and the input of the headphones, ensuring that the amplifier operates normally and produces the best quality signal for the headphones. It’s worth noting that it is technically possible to build an amplifier that doesn’t require such a resistor, but that is a task better suited for professional electronic engineers, which I am not. Regardless, this solution will have low efficiency. However, it is worth it for the added comfort.

I personally prefer the second option with a dedicated amplifier. Why bother with a transformer if it’s not necessary? Plus, I already use a separate amplifier even for regular earphones, so I always have room for one more. I built my own amplifier using a multi-loop circuit with non-original Chinese TDA2030A and OPA2134 components. The fact that the quiescent current of the amplifier with three (!) TDA2030A chips is 70 mA, according to my measurements, suggests that the datasheet’s specified norm for one TDA2030A is 80 mA. I’m very curious about the true capabilities of these components. By adding a 15 ohm ballast resistor, I was able to achieve the desired output current and optimize the operation of the components, allowing for approximately 0.45 A per channel at maximum volume. It’s too loud to listen to them on my head at this level, but they work well as small speakers. And even at lower volumes, they still produce good sound.

List of necessary equipment for repair

To complete the task, the following items are necessary:

• A soldering iron of moderate power is required, around 25 watts would suffice. While there are methods available online on how to connect wires in headphones without a soldering iron, they do not compare to the reliability of soldering. If you do not possess one, it is advisable to purchase one (prices start from $3); it will prove invaluable for household needs;
• Additionally, rosin and solder are required;
• Lastly, acquire a new connector, ensuring that it is of the same type as the one being replaced.

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IR headphones: they’re still alive.

If it’s effortless to pair with your smartphone, what about a television that lacks a Bluetooth module? Let’s say you want to enjoy your favorite TV show in the evening, but your child is already asleep. The solution is straightforward: you can connect infrared (IR) headphones.

How do wireless headphones for TV function? It’s quite simple, through the infrared channel. Typically, a transmitter is connected to the headphone output on the TV, while the "earpieces" themselves have a receiver. These devices are primarily suitable for watching TV since the receiver needs to be within the "line of sight" of the transmitter. If you move to another room, you’ll lose the sound.

IR models offer several benefits, such as affordability, energy efficiency, and compatibility with any device equipped with a headphone output (not just televisions, but also desktop computers). However, the selection of IR models is limited, leaving users with few options to choose from.

If you’re not familiar with the colors of wires in headphones and their meanings, it’s impossible to know how to properly solder wires to the headphone plug (for example, do you know what the green wire is responsible for?).

There are various numbers of wires that may be present in the headphone plug:

• 2 wires (for mono headphones);
• 3 wires (for mono or stereo headphones, depending on the connection scheme);
• 4 wires (for stereo headphones);
• 5 or 6 wires (for stereo headset with microphone).

2 wires

In the case of a headphone plug with only two wires, there is usually no need for any explanation on how to repair it. It is impossible to mix up anything in this scenario.

3 wires

There are always two wires coming from each earphone – a positive and a negative wire. However, sometimes the manufacturer combines the negative wires of both earphones, resulting in only three wires being connected to the plug. To provide a clearer understanding, I will provide a diagram illustrating how to solder the wires to the headphone plug:

This image further clarifies where the wires should be soldered to the headphone plug:

Typically, the wires are coated with different colored varnish:

• Red – right channel;
• Green, blue, or white – left channel;
• Colorless varnish – common wire (ground).

Of course, there are no strict standards and colors may vary. Here’s an example of how it can look in real life:

Take a look at how to correctly solder a wire to headphones (3 wires):

If you have 4 wires connected to your plug, you have options.

Option one: if your headphones do not have a microphone or buttons (the plug only has 3 pins), then these four wires are simply two pairs of wires from each speaker. The negative wires are the same color (usually copper) and the positive wires are different colors (usually blue and red or green and red):

In this case, the negative wires (the same color ones) are joined together and soldered to the negative connector pin. You can see how to solder the 4 wires from the headphones to the plug in the picture below:

And here is a guide on how to solder headphones to such a jack:

Option two: If you possess a complete headset (which includes headphones with a built-in microphone) and the plug is equipped with 4 pins, then it is highly probable that these four wires consist of one wire from each speaker, one signal wire from the microphone, and one common wire that is shared among all of them.

In a schematic representation, this can be denoted as follows:

And this is how you can assemble a headphone plug (proper headphone soldering when there are 4 wires):

More often than not, the microphone wire may appear to be just one single wire, but in reality, it consists of two wires: a thin wire enclosed in white PVC insulation that is completely covered with copper enameled wire (with a colorless enamel coating).

It is similar to something like this: And in this scenario, it would be more accurate to state that the headphones do not possess 4 wires, but rather a total of 5.

5, 6 or more wires

Depending on how it is implemented, there may be five or more cables inside the headset cable. Sometimes even up to ten! However, in any case, the wire carrying the microphone signal is always intended to be connected to its own "ground" braid.

Regardless, if you dissect your cable and it appears like this:

or even like this:

then no one will be able to immediately instruct you on how to correctly solder the plug for such headphones. There is only one piece of advice in this case: use a tester to connect all the wires until you can discern which is the right ear and which is the left ear. The remaining wires are for the microphone.

Determine the common wires by their color and solder them all together. All signal wires should be soldered according to the connector pinout (refer to the pictures above).

Next, proceed to evaluate the headphones and microphone. In the event of any issues, troubleshoot to identify the root cause. In this case, it’s essential to rely on the scientific method as no external assistance will be available.

Acoustic design

There are three types of acoustic design or construction for headphones: closed, open, and semi-closed (semi-open).

Closed headphones are designed with a seal that prevents sound waves from escaping and directs them directly into the ear. These headphones are ideal for creating an immersive audio experience. While wearing closed headphones, the music remains private and those around you cannot hear what you are listening to. Additionally, closed headphones provide passive noise isolation, blocking out external sounds.

1. They provide a snug fit and offer excellent noise isolation;
2. There is no audibility to others;
3. They produce a lush bass;
4. You can enjoy detailed sound even at low volume.
5. Compared to open headphones, the sound may not be as realistic;
6. It is not safe to use them while walking on a busy street;
7. Listening for long periods of time may result in a headache.

Open headphones emit sound in all directions, allowing noise to be heard from the surroundings and music to be heard by those nearby. Open headphones provide better sound quality compared to closed headphones, as the sound is not distorted by reflections inside a sealed case.

1. The audio quality is designed to be as authentic, transparent, and crisp as possible;
2. Ensures safety by allowing you to hear warning signals, such as those emitted by cars;
3. Features comfortable ear cushions that prevent sweating and headaches.
4. Offers minimal noise isolation, which prevents complete immersion in your listening experience;
5. Minimizes the annoyance to others caused by sound leakage;
6. Delivers comparatively weaker bass performance compared to closed-back headphones.

Clearly, headphones that are semi-closed or semi-open (which are essentially the same) offer partial noise isolation. These headphones have a cup that is closed with small openings. Many professionals choose to purchase such headphones because they offer a balance of sound isolation and realistic audio quality, making them suitable for long periods of use. However, they do not provide complete immersion in the music as they still allow some external noise to seep through.

What is the best choice for headphones? The response to this inquiry relies upon the specific task at hand and the audio surroundings in which the headphones will be utilized. If the intention is to listen to music in noisy settings (like public transportation or a recording studio with vocal or instrumental recordings), it is recommended to select closed headphones. Conversely, if the sound from the headphones won’t bother anyone (such as at home or when working alone) and external noises can serve as a signal for potential dangers (outdoors), open headphones may be utilized.

What are wireless headphones

Wireless headphones are an innovative device that utilizes various technologies to receive audio signals from a source. Depending on the specific circumstances of their usage, it is important to select the most suitable model.

• Full-size headphones are typically preferred for domestic use. They are designed to effectively isolate the user from external noises, ensuring an immersive audio experience. These versatile headphones are capable of delivering high-fidelity sound without distorting the original composition. The transmitter is positioned on the outer shell, ensuring that proper usage does not cause any harm to the user’s hearing.
• Clip-on headphones can be attached to the earlobe, providing a unique wearing experience. These models often come equipped with a folding mechanism for enhanced convenience. The main difference compared to full-size headphones is that they do not fully cover the user’s ears. However, the built-in speakers boast an impressive power output, allowing for superior audio quality.
• Plugin models are suitable for use while on the go or during sports activities. The compact devices ensure smooth operation and high-quality transmission of sound. The main module is connected to a neckband which can be used for signal reception.

To ensure optimum sound quality, it is important to consider the frequency range, sound quality, and impedance.

Additionally, wireless headphones also need to be evaluated based on their battery life, battery type, and control buttons. Modern models offer convenient features such as track switching, volume adjustment, and phone call control.

By using a reverse approach, I have identified the factors that have a clear negative impact on sound reproduction.

An important factor for maintaining tonal balance is having a smooth Automatic Frequency Control (AFC) plot.

If the following parameters are satisfactory, then this particular factor is not unfavorable.

It is crucial to have a smooth plot of harmonic distortion, without any sharp peaks.

While achieving ultra-low distortion (less than 0.1%) may not have much practical significance, reducing distortion tends to lead to improvements in other parameters.

A high dynamic range is important across all frequencies, even outside the range of human hearing.

To deflect from the equilibrium position, the transmitter needs to surpass the internal rest friction forces. Consequently, there exists a maximum force threshold for overcoming the dormant friction amidst the material layers. Essentially, this characteristic establishes the lower bound of the dynamic range. The lower limit is contingent upon the compositions of the materials and their interconnections.

Taking magnetoplanar radiators as an example, we can immediately observe one important fact – they have a multi-layered structure. Typically, there is a layer of PET film or a similar material, optionally an adhesive layer, and a layer of metal conductor. A well-designed membrane should have corrugations to allow for better flexibility. However, it appears that there is a problem with this layered structure – at the interface between the metal and polymer film, there is a sudden change in mechanical properties. This change causes the layers to shift relative to each other during oscillations, resulting in energy losses. However, this is only part of the issue.