Definition of Open Cup Headphones and which ones for Hearing Aids

[beanyboy]

Not being very clever on knowing which is which , what is the definition of Open Cup Headphones please ?

Am I right in believing that the pads have cups in them that would in effect "go over" Hearing Aids which I wear, rather than rest on them.

Headhones resting on hearing aids would cause problems.

In addition has anyone got any recommendations for a good but inexpensive set of " whatever" headphones are best for Hearing Aid wearers.

These would be used to listen to a Portable CD player.

Thanks.

[Drubbing]

Open cup phones are open at the back - they are like speakers with a headband, if you like. Some closed back phones look pretty much the same, but the cup is closed in and the sound produced is a bit different. Open produce better, more natural sound.

What you want is circumaural phones - ones that completely cover the ear, as opposed to phones that sit on the ear, which may be difficult in your situation.

Both open back and closed styles come in cirum aural - so there are plenty to choose from.

Audio Technica are worth considering, as they have big cups, which you will probably need for clearance around your aids. But not ideal for on the go listening - they're big. Best to try some out if you can.

[beanyboy]

Thanks for that Drubbing. I am certainly glad that I asked.

Tis a pity that they only come in "big" so to speak as I do only really need them for the Portable CD Player and perhaps an iPod , if I ever get round to getting one.

However Hearing Aids will always have to be worn so it looks as if "big" is what i'tll have to be.

Any other suggestions on makes and models.

Someone told me that Grado's were good , do you know if they come in
circumaural>

Thanks again.

[Drubbing]

No Grado's are supra aural, they sit on the ears. Though you can get bowl pads for them, so they 'cup' the ear and sort of mimic circum aural- which is worth trying, although they may not be able to clear your ear. More portable than the ATs, but have thick cords.

It is going to be hard to find a cup that fits, yet in a small portable phone.

I recommend a visit to a good store, if one exists near you. Failing that, as most headphone-only stores appear to be online, get in touch with one, and buy from one that takes the time to give you good advice.

[beanyboy]

Thanks again Drubbing. I appreciate that.

So if i was'nt too fussy about the portable types, I could go , perhaps for the smaller, less cumbersome, fuller size variety.

I'll have a look round and see what ther is on offer.

Thanks again