Updated on April 2nd, 2022
There is an old adage that says, “You get what you pay for!” When it comes to headphones, the adage is right on the money. Headphones are as important as a good set of brakes for your family car when it comes to how much you should pay. You want the best when so much is riding on what is being produced in the studio.
A good pair of studio headphones are not simply any old headset with the word "studio" imprinted on the side of the headphones. Rule of thumb… If it says Dre, Beats, Apple or Monster on the side of the set, it is not a topflight set of headphones.
Types of Headphones
In general, studio headphones that come with open or even semi-open designs are the best option for mixing. Designed to curtail the build-up of bass frequencies inside of the headphones, open or semi-open designs allows for a flat, accurate sound.
Closed-back designs are better for ‘tracking’ sessions (recording) because they prevent the external sound of the headphones from leaking into the microphone and being picked up on the track. This is the most common type of design for a studio headphone. Closed-back designs are recommended for recording, everyday use, or producing music in general.
What to Look for in Headphones
How the headphones are used is a vital component of selection. Will you be recording, mixing or both? Everyday use? Also use at the gym? Headphones come in open, closed, or semi-open variety, how you use the headphones is a vital consideration. For example, a drummer tuning into the rest of the ensemble will choose a closed design because it prevents bleed from the percussion instruments from impeding the reception of the other lines in the track.
Budget of course is always a consideration. The best headphones tend to be much more expensive. If you want the best options in your studio, be prepared to spend some money. Also remember that the best headphones tend to call for an amp which adds to overall cost.
A headphone amplifier may be a necessity. Although amps can be used for any pair of headphones, some of the best models are so powerful that you can’t just fit all of the electronics inside of them you to need to generate enough power. Hence, you may need something external.
Sennheiser HD 600
The Seinnheiser HD 600 features an open-ear, circamural design lauded by engineers and other production gurus as one of the best studio headphones on the market.
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Sennheiser HD 600 Open Back |
Sennheiser's high-end open-air headphones deliver deep bass have luxuriously padded ear cups and a replaceable cord for a more economical price than their flagship model. With the open design there is some ‘sound leakage’, but leakage is a small price to pay for the exquisite sound.
These headphones will need a headphone amp to get the full sound potential from the set. The main advantage of the HD 600 set is the resolution quality that is second to none. These headphones are also very comfortable. For double the money, seek the HD 650s which tend to be even more durable than the 600.
One critique of the HD 600 is that it is an unattractive set of headphones. Using copious black and plastic, the 600s lack the “pop” of some of the chromed-out models. But who is looking, right?
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
In terms of overall sales, Audio-Technica headphones have dominated the market for years. The flagship model, the one and only ATH-M50, is consistently one of the most popular models on the market.
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50x |
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones offer excellent build quality and very detailed balanced sound with tight bass. They're also very comfortable. They offer well cushioned ear cups along with a detachable-cord design (three cords are included).
This new version of the M50 studio headphones includes an interchangeable cable to give you some options for connectivity, as well as 90-degree swiveling ear cups to help with mixing or portability. A relatively basic model, the M50s are find for mixing and mastering at an affordable price.
On the downside, some contend that the ATH-M50x headphones lack durability. The cord components, especially, tend to loose elasticity over time. With careful storage, the durability challenges associated with the ATH-M50x are controlled.
V-MODA Crossfade LP
These things are tanks and have been on the market for a very long time. The V-MODA‘s years of positive reviews come with the security of knowing the design is time-tested.
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V-MODA Crossfade LP |
With hefty drivers of 50mm, a taught tuned flat sound, sturdy cables plugs, a steel frame and a form-fitting case crafted of metal and Kevlar, the V-MODA Crossfade LP is a solid investment. Memory-foamed ear pads are extremely comfortable and replaceable as well.
Creating solid bass and a robust blend of mids and the highs, these headphones produce terrific sound without overwhelming amplification. The Crossfade’s are a little less known, but the true headphone enthusiasts continue to laud this pair for studio use.
Like a few of the other older models, the V-MODA Crossfade LP lacks a bit in the aesthetic category. Part of the perceived drabness of the V-MODA Crossfade LP is directly linked to the robust construction. Inasmuch, what is sacrificed in appearance is more than overcome in durability.
AKG K 240 MK II
AKG microphones and headphones, a well-known and well received brand, offer us their famous original K240 headphones which continue to garner a significant following. These particular headphones are semi-open, so some sound will leak out which prevents that pesky build-up.
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AKG K 240 MK II |
Typically better for mixing, they also offer a self-adjustable headband with some very comfortable ear pads. The AKG K 240 MK IIs create and all around accurate, flat sound. Bass and treble balance are terrifically matched on this model. The interchangeable, standard cables come in both coiled and straight options depending on user preference.
The only drawback of the AKG K 240 MK II is its semi-open design. Because of the leak, these headphones are not recommended for engineers tasked with mixing. The leak of the AKG K 240 MK II can compromise the sound-quality of recordings and should be used by vocalists and instrumentalists.
Shure SRH840
Shure audio remains a powerful contributor in the audio game. While better known for their dynamic microphones, Shure continues to produces fantastic headphones.
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Shure SRH840 |
The Shure SRH840 model is a huge hit among the studio headphone market. Featuring standard drivers and impedance, the 840s are best used as monitoring headphones. With deep base and clear treble Shure’s offering creates nice balance.
Other notable features include an extremely comfortable, memory-foam ear pad (they’re also replaceable for a longer life), collapsibility for storage/travel and an interchangeable cable.
On the downside, these headphones tend to trap bass because of their precisely-crafted closed design. For those tasked with mixing, the Shure SRH840 is not the best choice given the fact that engineer will not be able to hear all parts of the track.
Beyerdynamic DT880
If you are willing to venture into the higher price range, you can secure some of the best studio headphones available today. Beyerdynamic is a solid brand and shouldn’t be overlooked. With a semi-open design crafted for mixing, the DT880s are well regarded by studio engineers.
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Beyerdynamic DT880 |
Equipped with a very analytic and refined sound, the DT880s creates a rather wide range in terms of frequencies. While the 880s may lack some ‘high-end sparkle’, the phones offer uncompromising accuracy.
The earpieces on this Byerdynamic offering are replaceable, and come in adjustable soft padding. Although great for mixing, the Byerdynamic BT 880 headphones are also superb for everyday listening.
Ultrasone Pro900
The Pro900s provide moderate isolation and tend to be more sensitive than most (+3dB). The fit is firm and comfortable. You get very good dynamics, resolution and a strong bass end.
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Ultrasone Pro900 |
With an expansive bass and high end, which tends to be flattering rather than revealing, the 900s offer a wonderful hi-fi dynamic. PRO headphones' ULE (Ultra Low Emission) technology, part of the S-Logic Natural Surround System, offers significant benefits for professional users.
Most headphone drivers produce low-frequency magnetic fields as they convert an electric signal into the acoustical signal you hear as music. The Ultrasone developed a special MU Metal shielding to reduce the radiation by up to 98% compared to current headphones.
The ULE technology endured the rigors of international review and is recommended by technical surveillance organizations. Ultrasone originally developed the ULE technology for professionals, since they spend much of their lives in headphones. But due to popular demand, the ULE technology has now been integrated in other Ultrasone headphone lines.
Do remember that The Pro900 typically does not have the accuracy needed for mixing. This model is best for monitoring.
Final Thoughts
Well there you have it. When it comes to studio headphones, terrific options abound. Due to the design constraints associated with headphones, there is not a singular “Jack of all Trades” headphone set. Perhaps the best approach is to do some good research and purchase several pairs。
Read also:
Best Vocal Microphones for both Singing and Recording: 2020 Reviews.
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