Studio headphones serve as a crucial asset for musicians, engineers, and producers, offering precise sound reproduction and effective noise isolation. They excel in recording, mixing, and mastering, allowing you to discern every nuance in your music and make informed decisions during the production process. Yet, given the diverse range of options available, the task of selecting the perfect pair can be a daunting challenge, necessitating careful consideration to meet your specific needs.
When choosing studio headphones for mixing, there are a few key features you should keep in mind:
- Type of Headphones: Studio headphones come in two main types: closed-back and open-back. Closed-back headphones provide better noise isolation, while open-back headphones offer a wider soundstage and more natural sound.
- Sound Quality: These headphones should have a neutral sound profile, meaning they should reproduce all frequencies accurately. This is essential for mixing and mastering music.
- Comfort and Fit: These headphones should be comfortable to wear for long periods of time, with soft ear cups and a headband that doesn’t put too much pressure on your head.
In this article, we’ll review the best studio headphones in 2023 along with detailed “Buying Guide”, based on sound quality, comfort, durability, and other important factors.
Best Studio Headphones For Mixing Table
Best Studio Headphones For Mixing Reviews
1. OneOdio Studio Headphone For Mixing
The OneOdio Pro-10 Wired Over Ear Studio Headphones, hailing from the reputable OneOdio brand, deliver an exceptional audio experience at a budget-friendly price. Their standout feature is the superior sound quality, thanks to the high-power 50mm neodymium drivers that produce clear, crisp tones and robust bass, making them suitable for professional audio tasks like monitoring and mixing, as well as leisurely music enjoyment.
These headphones prioritize user comfort with their soft padded ear cushions and an adjustable headband, ensuring a comfortable and secure fit, even during long listening sessions. Additionally, the 90-degree swiveling ear cups allow for single-ear monitoring, a valuable feature for DJs and musicians.
Durability is a key strength, with a sturdy build and high-quality materials that withstand daily wear and tear. They also come with a detachable spring cable and a convenient carrying case for portability and protection.
Best Features
- Type: Closed Back
- Driver Size: 50mm
- Impedance: 32 Ohm
- Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 40K Hz
- Sensitivity: 110 dB ± 3 dB
- Connectivity: 3.5mm,6.5mm adapter
- Cable Length: 3.0m
Pros
- Excellent sound quality for the price
- Comfortable to wear for long periods of time
- 90-degree swiveling ear cups
- Durable construction
- Versatile design for a variety of uses
Cons
- The ear cups can be a bit bulky for some people
2. Beyerdynamic Studio Headphone For Mixing
The beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 250 Ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones stand as the quintessential studio classic, trusted by professionals worldwide for their exceptional sound quality, comfort, and resilience. Their high-quality drivers deliver a broad frequency response and impressive bass, making them an ideal choice for precise audio monitoring during studio tasks such as mixing, mastering, and recording. These headphones excel in noise isolation, enabling users to concentrate on their work without being distracted by external sounds. Designed with comfort in mind, the DT 770 PRO headphones feature soft, replaceable ear pads and an adjustable lightweight headband, ensuring prolonged wear without discomfort. Furthermore, they are engineered for longevity, boasting a robust construction that can endure the demands of daily use.
Best Features
- Type: Closed Back
- Driver Size: Not Mentioned
- Impedance: 250 Ohm
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 35K Hz
- Sensitivity: 96 dB
- Connectivity: 3.5mm,6.5mm adapter
- Cable Length: 3.0m
Pros
- Professional-grade studio reference headphones
- Excellent sound quality with wide frequency response and great bass response
- Great noise isolation for focused work
- Comfortable design for long wear
- Durable construction
Cons
- Can be expensive
3. M-Audio Studio Headphone For Mixing
The M-Audio HDH40 Over Ear Studio Headphones are an excellent choice for those seeking high-quality headphones tailored for studio monitoring. Their 40mm neodymium dynamic magnet drivers ensure precise sound reproduction with a broad frequency response, allowing you to discern every nuance in your mix and optimize your recordings. Designed for extended wear, these headphones boast soft closed-back ear cups with faux leather cushioning and a flexible headband, reducing fatigue and helping you stay focused on your tasks.
What sets the HDH40 headphones apart is their versatility. They are well-suited for studio monitoring, podcasting, private listening, and more, accommodating a range of devices, from smartphones and tablets to mixers, audio interfaces, and digital pianos. Their 180-degree rotatable frame facilitates single-ear monitoring, adding to their adaptability.
While these headphones offer superb sound quality, comfort, and versatility at an affordable price, it’s worth noting that some users might find the fixed cable less convenient, and they may not be as durable as some other high-end models. Nonetheless, the M-Audio HDH40 headphones are a compelling choice for anyone seeking top-notch audio equipment for studio-related tasks.
Best Features
- Type: Closed Back
- Driver Size: 40mm
- Impedance:32 Ohm
- Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 28K Hz
- Sensitivity: 95 dB
- Connectivity: 3.5mm,6.5mm adapter
- Cable Length: 2.7m
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Comfortable design for long wear
- Versatile design for a variety of uses
- Affordable price
Cons
- Fixed cable can be inconvenient for some users
4. Audio-Technica Studio Headphone For Mixing
The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones are a great choice if you want good headphones for a fair price. They’re designed for studio work, but you can use them for listening to music, playing games, or watching movies too.
These headphones have 40mm drivers, which are like powerful speakers, so they give you clear and rich sound with strong bass (the low tones). That’s good for listening carefully to your music or working in a studio without being bothered by outside noise.
They’re comfy to wear for a long time because they have soft ear cups and an adjustable headband. They’re built to last and have a detachable cable, which means you can replace it if it gets damaged.
In a nutshell, the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x headphones provide great sound quality, comfort, and durability at an affordable price, making them a solid choice for all sorts of listening and studio needs.
Best Features
- Type: Closed Back
- Driver Size: Not mentioned
- Impedance: 64 Ohm
- Frequency Response: 8 Hz- 25K Hz
- Sensitivity: 113 dB
- Connectivity: 3.5mm,6.5mm adapter
- Cable Length: 3.0m
Pros
- Excellent sound quality for the price
- Great sound isolation
- Comfortable to wear
- Durable construction with detachable cable
Cons
- Some users have reported that the bass can be too overpowering for certain genres of music
5. Sennheiser Studio Headphone For Mixing
The Sennheiser Professional HD 280 PRO Over-Ear Monitoring Headphones are widely recognized in the professional audio world. They’re popular because they offer good sound quality, are built to last, and comfortable to wear.
The headphones are known for providing accurate sound, which is great for hearing the details in music or audio work. They also have strong bass and block out background noise, so you can focus on what you’re listening to.
They’re durable, made from strong materials, and they can fold and rotate for easy storage. Plus, they’re comfy with soft ear pads and an adjustable headband, even during long listening sessions.
The Sennheiser Professional HD 280 PRO headphones are a reliable choice for people who need decent sound, durability, and comfort.
Best Features
- Type: Closed Back
- Driver Size: Not Mentioned
- Impedance: 64 Ohm
- Frequency Response: 8 Hz- 25K Hz
- Sensitivity: 113 dB
- Connectivity: 3.5mm,6.5mm adapter
- Cable Length: 2.0m
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with wide frequency response and good bass response
- Great sound isolation
- Durable construction with folding and rotating design
- Comfortable fit with soft ear pads and adjustable headband
Cons
- The cord is long ,coiled and heavy not able to walk or run easily
6. AKG Studio Headphone For Mixing
AKG, a renowned name in professional headphones, presents the K240 STUDIO, a popular choice among its offerings. These headphones are celebrated for their impressive sound quality, comfortable design, and sturdy construction.
Their sound quality is notable, thanks to XXL transducers with Varimotion diaphragms that provide a broad dynamic range and excellent frequency response. This results in a natural and accurate sound ideal for studio tasks like monitoring, mixing, and mastering.
For long-wearing comfort, the K240 STUDIO headphones are designed with circumaural (around-the-ear) ear cups featuring soft padding, along with a self-adjusting headband that ensures a secure fit without pressure.
In terms of durability, these headphones are built to withstand heavy use, constructed with high-quality materials and featuring a detachable cable that can be easily replaced if needed.
Best Features
- Type: Open Back
- Driver Size: 30mm
- Impedance: 55 Ohm
- Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 25 kHz
- Sensitivity: 104 dB
- Connectivity: 3.5mm,6.5mm adapter
- Cable Length: 3.0m
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with wide dynamic range and well-balanced mids and highs
- Comfortable design with circumaural ear cups and self-adjusting headband
- Durable construction with detachable cable
Cons
- Semi-open design may not provide enough sound isolation for some users
7. Philips Studio Headphone For Mixing
Philips Over Ear Open Back Stereo Headphones feature finely-tuned 50mm drivers that deliver rich bass, balanced midrange, and crisp high frequencies, designed to fit the ear’s natural shape for detailed sound reproduction.
The open-back design creates a spacious soundstage, immersing you in the music, particularly well-suited for classical, jazz, and acoustic genres. Comfort is a priority, with a reinforced steel headband and breathable, soft ear-cup cushions ideal for extended listening sessions.
In terms of durability, the headphones are constructed with care, featuring gold-plated cable connections. The Philips Over Ear Open Back Stereo Headphones provide excellent sound quality, a wide soundstage, comfort, and durability, all at an affordable price, catering to casual listeners and audiophiles alike.
Best Features
- Type: Open Back
- Driver Size: 50mm
- Impedance: 32 Ohm
- Frequency Response: 12 Hz – 35 kHz
- Sensitivity: 101 dB
- Connectivity: 3.5mm,6.5mm adapter
- Cable Length: 3.0m
Pros
- Superior sound quality with perfectly tuned 50mm drivers
- Open-back design for a wide and spacious soundstage
- Comfortable design with reinforced headband and breathable ear-cup cushions
- Durable construction with gold-plated cable connections
Cons
- Mic is not present in it
8. Samson Studio Headphone For Mixing
Samson, a well-known company in professional audio gear, has been making high-quality audio equipment for over 30 years. One of their popular products is the Samson SR850 Semi Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones. These headphones are loved by many for good reasons.
They are designed for studio work, where you need precise sound. These headphones have special 50mm drivers that can reproduce a wide range of sounds accurately. This is important for musicians, producers, and engineers who work in studios.
They are also incredibly comfortable for long listening sessions. The headphones have soft cushions, and the headband adjusts to your head, so you can wear them for hours without discomfort.
Plus, they come at an affordable price, making them a great choice for professionals and anyone who wants high-quality headphones. Whether you’re working in a studio or just enjoying your favorite music, these headphones are a smart pick.
Best Features
- Type: Open Back
- Driver Size: 50mm
- Impedance: 32 Ohm
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 30 kHz
- Sensitivity: 98 dB
- Connectivity: 3.5mm,6.5mm adapter
- Cable Length: 2.5m
Pros
- Extended frequency response and great dynamic range
- Circumaural, over-ear design with velour cushioning for outstanding comfort
- Self-adjusting headband for a secure fit
Cons
- Soud can be a bit bright for some listeners
9. Shure Studio Headphone For Mixing
Shure is a well-known company that’s been making professional audio equipment for a long time, over 90 years to be precise. One of their popular products is the Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones.
What makes these headphones great is their excellent sound quality. They’re designed for studio work, where you need to hear every little detail. They produce natural and accurate sound, which is perfect for mixing, recording, and even just regular listening.
These headphones are versatile, meaning they can work with all sorts of professional audio equipment. Whether you’re into podcasting, recording at home, or doing live sound, they’ve got you covered.
And if you’re going to wear headphones for a long time, they better be comfortable. Well, these are. They have a lightweight headband and can adjust to fit you just right. You can also fold them up, which is handy for traveling.
Finally, they look sleek and can handle some rough use. Their over-ear design is comfy, and it helps block out background noise.
Best Features
- Type: Closed Back
- Driver Size: 40mm
- Impedance: 40 Ohm
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 22 kHz
- Sensitivity: 97 dB
- Connectivity: 3.5mm,6.5mm adapter
- Cable Length: 3.0m
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with transparent, natural sound signature
- Versatile and compatible with all professional audio devices
- Ultra-comfortable and easy to transport with lightweight headband and collapsible construction
- Sleek and durable design with over-ear, closed-back circumaural design
- Long detachable locking cable
Cons
- Can be a bit tight-fitting for some users
10. HIFIMAN Studio Headphone For Mixing
HIFIMAN, a pioneer in planar magnetic headphone technology, is renowned for its high-quality audio products. The HIFIMAN Sundara Over-Ear Full-Size Planar Magnetic HiFi Stereo Wired Headphones are a standout model, and for excellent reasons.
These headphones stand out for their fantastic sound quality. They use cutting-edge technology with super-thin diaphragms, providing a wide range of sound frequencies and crystal-clear details. It’s like having a front-row seat at a live concert.
Comfort is key with these headphones. They’ve got a special headband design that spreads the weight evenly, so you can wear them for hours without discomfort. Plus, they’re durable, designed to withstand everyday wear and tear.
What’s more, they’re lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for travel or listening on the move. And they’re super efficient, so you can use them with all sorts of devices like your smartphone or tablet.
Best Features
- Type: Closed Back
- Driver Size: 40mm
- Impedance: 40 Ohm
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 22 kHz
- Sensitivity: 97 dB
- Connectivity: 3.5mm,6.5mm adapter
- Cable Length: 3.0m
Pros
- Stunning sound quality with wide frequency response, fast response, and detailed sound
- Comfortable and durable design with hybrid headband and weight-spreading strap
- Lightweight and portable
- Highly efficient for use with a variety of devices
Cons
- Requires a dedicated headphone amplifier for the best sound quality
Buying Guide For The Best Studio Headphone For Mixing
1. Type of Headphones
There are two main types of studio headphones: closed-back and open-back.
- Closed-Back Headphones: Closed-back headphones have a sealed design that blocks out external noise. This makes them ideal for use in noisy environments, such as recording studios or live performances. Closed-back headphones also tend to have a more powerful bass response than open-back headphones.
- Open-Back Headphones: Open-back headphones have a more open design that allows sound to pass through in both directions. This results in a more natural soundstage and better imaging. However, open-back headphones also leak more sound than closed-back headphones, so they are not ideal for use in noisy environments.
2. Sound Quality
When choosing studio headphones, it is important to look for a pair that offers accurate and detailed sound reproduction. This means that the headphones should have a wide frequency response and accurate bass response.
Frequency response is the range of frequencies that the headphones can reproduce. A wider frequency response means that the headphones will be able to reproduce a wider range of sounds, from the lowest bass notes to the highest treble notes.
Bass response is the headphones’ ability to reproduce low frequencies. Accurate bass response is important for hearing the low-end frequencies in your music, such as the kick drum and bass guitar.
3. Comfort and Fit
Studio headphones are often used for extended periods of time, so it is important to choose a pair that is comfortable to wear. Look for headphones with soft ear cups and a headband that does not put too much pressure on your head.
It is also important to choose headphones that have a good fit. The ear cups should fit snugly around your ears, but not so tightly that they cause discomfort.
4. Durability
Wireless headphones can be expensive, so you want to make sure they’re durable. Look for headphones that are made from high-quality materials and have a good build quality. You can also read reviews of different headphones to see what other people have to say about the durability.
5. Impedance
Impedance is a measure of how much electrical resistance a pair of headphones has. Higher impedance headphones require more power to drive, so they’re not ideal for use with portable devices. Lower impedance headphones are more efficient, so they can be used with portable devices without any problems.
6. Sensitivity
Sensitivity is a measure of how loud a pair of headphones can be driven by a given amount of power. Higher sensitivity headphones are louder, so they’re ideal for use in noisy environments. Lower sensitivity headphones are quieter, so they’re ideal for use in quiet environments.
7. Drivers Size
The driver size is the diameter of the speaker cone in a pair of headphones. Larger drivers are generally able to produce more bass, so they’re ideal for listening to music with a lot of bass. Smaller drivers are more efficient, so they’re ideal for use with portable devices.
8. Cable Length
Cable length is an important consideration if you are using your headphones in a studio setting. You will want to choose headphones with a long enough cable so that you can move around freely.
9. Sound Isolation
Sound isolation is a measure of how well a pair of headphones can block out external noise. If you are looking for a pair of headphones that can block out external noise well.
Best Studio Headphones For Mixing – FAQs
Ans: Studio headphones provide a flat, unaltered sound profile, making them ideal for audio professionals. Regular headphones often emphasize bass or treble for a more enjoyable listening experience.
Ans: The choice between open-back, closed-back, or semi-open headphones depends on your soundstage and sound isolation requirements.
Ans: The ideal impedance varies but usually falls between 32 ohms and 600 ohms, depending on your audio source and preferences.
Ans: Yes, you can, but remember that studio headphones prioritize accuracy over enhanced bass or treble, which may be preferred for gaming or casual listening.
Ans: Wireless studio headphones have come a long way, but some professionals still prefer wired headphones for their reliability and audio quality.
Ans: Absolutely, many studio headphones double as great everyday listening devices. It’s all about your personal preference.
Ans: High-end studio headphones are a worthy investment if you demand uncompromising audio quality. They’re often used by professionals who require the best sound fidelity.
Conclusion
The best studio headphones for you will depend on your individual needs and budget.
- If you are looking for a budget-friendly option, the OneOdio Studio Headphone is a great choice.
- If you are looking for a high-quality studio headphone that will last for years, the Beyerdynamic Studio Headphone is a great option.
- If you are looking for an open-back studio headphone with a wide soundstage, the AKG Studio Headphone is a great option.
Explore our top picks, consider your specific needs, and let the music play as it was meant to be heard.
