Open Ear Headphones is a technology designed to protect your ears from ear canal damage and prevent hearing loss caused by in-ear headphones. This innovative approach keeps you aware of your surroundings while ensuring your ears remain safe.
How Open Ear Headphones Work
Open Ear Headphones generally function using one of two technologies: Air Conduction and Bone Conduction.
Both technologies keep your ears open and safe, but their working mechanisms differ significantly. While the outcomes may vary slightly, both technologies are ideal for open-ear headphones.
Air Conduction Technology
In air conduction technology, sound waves travel through the air and into the ear canal—the traditional way of listening to music. These headphones have micro speakers on both sides, transmitting sound into your ears without plugging anything in.
This technology utilizes the natural apparatus of the ears—pinna, ear canal, tympanic membrane, and ossicles—to amplify and direct sound.
Bone Conduction Technology
Bone conduction works differently. It uses vibrations that travel through the bones of the skull to reach the inner ear. This technology is often designed for individuals with hearing impairments or those seeking a unique listening experience.
With bone conduction, the eardrums are bypassed entirely. Instead, the headphones take on the role of the eardrums by decoding sound waves and converting them into vibrations. These vibrations are then received directly by the Cochlea, bypassing the eardrums.
The final sound reaches the ears as vibrations through the bones (or skull) and skin, offering an alternative way to experience audio.
Key Differences Between Air and Bone Conduction
Vibrations vs. Traditional Sound
With bone conduction headphones, you can feel vibrations on your cheekbones, especially as the volume increases beyond 70%. This sensation is absent in air conduction headphones, which transmit sound directly into your ears like traditional headphones or earphones.
Suitability
- If you find vibrations uncomfortable, air conduction headphones may be the better choice.
- If you have hearing difficulties, bone conduction headphones offer a unique solution by delivering sound through vibrational technology.
Open ear headphones provide a safe and innovative listening experience tailored to individual needs, whether you prioritize comfort or require a specific technological advantage.
