Are open-back or closed-back headphones better for audio quality?

Both open-back and closed-back headphones have their advantages. Open-back headphones typically offer a more natural soundstage and better spatial imaging due to their open design, but they may lack in isolation and bass response compared to closed-back headphones. Closed-back headphones provide better noise isolation and often have stronger bass response, making them suitable for environments where sound leakage is a concern. The choice depends on personal preference and usage scenarios.