As a music producer, achieving the best-quality sound is essential to your success. Using the wrong headphones can significantly impact your final audio and potentially ruin your entire music production project. Audio distortion, lack of clarity, poor frequency response, and uneven stereo imaging are some common issues that arise from using inadequate mixing and mastering headphones.
With the right mixing and mastering headphones, you can hear every detail of your music, producing clear, balanced, and accurate sound. These headphones should offer a flat frequency response, excellent stereo imaging, and high resolution to ensure every nuance of your mix is accurately reproduced.
This precision allows you to make informed decisions during the mixing and mastering process, resulting in professional-quality tracks.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the best headphones available for mixing and mastering. These headphones are designed to meet the specific needs of music producers, providing the tools necessary to create high-quality, polished audio.
Let’s dive into the top choices and find the perfect pair to elevate your music production to the next level.
Roundup of the Best Headphones for Mixing and Mastering
| Overall Best Headphones for Mixing and Mastering | Audeze MM-500 |
| Best for Detailed Sound | Audeze LCD-X |
| Best for Wide Soundstage | Sennheiser HD 800S |
| Best for Professional Use | Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X |
| Best for Classic Performance | Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 |
| Best for Budget-Friendly Option | Sennheiser HD-206 |
| Best for Closed-Back Design | Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X |
How to Find the Best Headphones for Mixing and Mastering?
Here’s a list of factors you should consider while looking for the right headphones for mixing and mastering:
1. Frequency Response
The frequency response of headphones refers to the range of sounds they can accurately produce, including bass, mids, and trebles.
Headphones with a flat frequency response are ideal for mixing and mastering as they provide a true representation of the sound. This allows you to hear all elements of a track clearly, ensuring a balanced mix.
2. Design: Open-Back vs. Closed-Back Headphones
When choosing between open-back and closed-back headphones, it’s important to consider their respective advantages. Open-back headphones deliver a spacious, natural sound that helps in evaluating stereo imaging and soundstage.
Closed-back headphones offer excellent noise isolation, making them useful in noisy environments. Many producers prefer open-back for mixing and closed-back for mastering.
3. Comfort
Comfort is crucial since mixing and mastering sessions can last for hours. Look for headphones with well-padded ear cups, a comfortable headband, and adjustable features. These aspects ensure that you can wear the headphones for extended periods without discomfort.
4. Impedance
Impedance refers to the electrical resistance headphones offer to the audio source. High impedance headphones (above 25 ohms) are ideal for mixing and mastering as they provide more detailed and precise sound. Low impedance headphones may be more susceptible to sound distortion due to external interference.
5. Durability
Durability is important because mixing and mastering headphones are frequently used and can be subjected to wear and tear. Ensure that the headphones are made of sturdy materials and are built to last. This way, you can rely on them for consistent performance over time
Top 7 Headphones for Mixing and Mastering
Here are the top 7 headphones for mixing and mastering that we have tested on various parameters:
1. Audeze MM-500
Overall Best Headphones for Mixing and Mastering
What Impressed Us
- Accurate and precise Sound
- Comfortable design
- Professional-grade performance
- Neutral sound
What Disappointed Us
- High price
- Tight clamping force on the head can cause discomfort during extended use
We chose the Audeze MM-500 as the overall best on our list of headphones for mixing and mastering due to its exceptional audio precision and professional-grade performance.
These headphones are designed to deliver unparalleled sound clarity and detail, making them an ideal choice for audio engineers and producers who require accurate sound representation.
The Audeze MM-500 headphones offer a precise frequency response range of 5 Hz to 50 kHz, ensuring an extraordinarily accurate and detailed sound reproduction.
This wide frequency range allows audio professionals to hear every nuance in their mixes, making them an ideal choice for mixing and mastering tasks. The planar magnetic drivers provide exceptional clarity and a flat response, ensuring that no frequencies are exaggerated or diminished.
This level of accuracy is crucial for making critical mixing and mastering decisions, ensuring that the final product translates well across all playback systems.
The open-back design contributes to a spacious and natural soundstage, allowing users to pinpoint audio elements with precision.
In addition to their outstanding audio performance, the MM-500 headphones are designed for maximum comfort and durability. The lightweight construction and plush ear pads ensure a comfortable fit for long sessions, while the robust build quality guarantees longevity.
With an impedance of 20 ohms, these headphones are easy to drive and compatible with various audio interfaces and devices.
In conclusion, the Audeze MM-500 excels in delivering accurate and detailed sound, making it the overall best choice for professionals in the audio industry. Their combination of superior sound quality, comfort, and durability ensures an optimal experience for mixing and mastering.
View on Amazon: Audeze MM-500
2. Audeze LCD-X
Best for Detailed Sound
What Impressed Us
- Exceptional soundstage and micro-detail retrieval
- Balanced sound signature with deep bass and clear highs
- Robust, industrial design with a comfortable suspension-style headband
- Available in both leather and leather-free earpad options
- Highly recommended for professional mixing and mastering
What Disappointed Us
- Can feel heavy on the head
- May clamp tightly on the head depending on head shape
- Mids can sometimes be recessed
We selected the Audeze LCD-X as the best for detailed sound due to its exceptional ability to reveal every nuance in your audio. These headphones are renowned for their precise and accurate sound reproduction, making them a top choice for critical listening and mastering.
The Audeze LCD-X headphones feature an impressive frequency response range of 10 Hz to 50 kHz, delivering exceptionally detailed and accurate sound reproduction across the entire spectrum. This wide frequency range makes them an excellent choice for mixing and mastering, as they reveal every nuance and detail in the audio without coloration.
The planar magnetic drivers provide unparalleled clarity and a flat frequency response, ensuring precise audio representation.
With their sturdy build quality and comfortable fit, the Audeze LCD-X headphones are highly regarded by audio professionals for their ability to provide reliable and high-fidelity sound, making them a top choice for critical listening and professional audio work.
In addition to their stellar sound quality, the LCD-X headphones are designed with comfort in mind. The large ear cups and plush ear pads provide a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
They are durable and built to last, with a robust construction that can withstand heavy use. With an impedance of 20 ohms, they are easy to drive and work well with various audio equipment.
In conclusion, the Audeze LCD-X is the best choice for those who need detailed and accurate sound. Their combination of superior audio quality, comfort, and durability makes them an ideal choice for professionals.
View on Amazon: Audeze LCD-X
3. Sennheiser HD 800S
Best for Wide Soundstage
What Impressed Us
- Exceptional detail and clarity
- Balanced sound signature
- Excellent staging and soundstage
- Comfortable and well-built
- Suitable for critical listening and mixing
What Disappointed Us
- High price point
- Limited noise isolation due to open-back design
The Sennheiser HD 800S stands out as the best for a wide soundstage, offering an expansive and immersive audio experience. We selected these headphones for their ability to create a natural and spacious sound, perfect for critical listening and mastering.
The HD 800S features an open-back design that contributes to its wide soundstage, allowing audio to feel more expansive and lifelike.
The frequency response range of the Sennheiser HD 800S is typically specified as 4 Hz to 51 kHz. While exact measurements can vary slightly between units and measurement setups, the HD 800S is known for its neutral midrange and detailed treble, with a slight dip in the upper bass to lower midrange area.
This makes them well-suited for critical listening tasks such as mixing and mastering, where accurate and unbiased sound reproduction is crucial.
These headphones offer an incredibly accurate sound stage, allowing audio professionals to discern every element of their mixes with precision.
Comfort and build quality are also top-notch with the HD 800S. The large ear cups and soft ear pads provide a comfortable fit for long listening sessions. The headphones are lightweight and durable, making them suitable for extended use. With an impedance of 300 ohms, they require a powerful headphone amplifier for optimal performance.
In summary, the Sennheiser HD 800S offers an unparalleled wide soundstage and detailed audio, making them the best choice for those seeking an immersive listening experience.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser HD 800S
4. Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X
Best for Professional Use
What Impressed Us
- Neutral sound signature with a flat frequency response
- Excellent for critical listening and mastering
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Detachable cables and modern look
- Suitable for a wide range of applications
What Disappointed Us
- Open-back design may not provide the best isolation
- Boost at 6.1kHz can be annoying without EQ
For professional use, the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X is our top choice. These headphones are designed for studio professionals who require accurate and reliable sound for mixing and mastering.
The Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X headphones offer an impressive frequency response range of 5 Hz to 40 kHz, ensuring exceptional clarity and detail across the entire audio spectrum.
This wide and precise frequency response makes them an excellent choice for mixing and mastering, as they accurately reproduce the full range of frequencies without any coloration.
The open-back design of the DT 900 Pro X contributes to a natural and spacious sound stage, providing an immersive listening experience that is essential for critical audio work.
Comfort and durability are key features of the DT 900 Pro X. The headphones have soft ear pads and an adjustable headband, ensuring a comfortable fit for long sessions.
They are built with high-quality materials that guarantee long-lasting durability. With an impedance of 48 ohms, they are compatible with a wide range of audio equipment and do not require a powerful amplifier.
In conclusion, the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X is the best choice for professional use, offering accurate sound, comfort, and durability for studio environments.
View on Amazon: Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X
5. Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600
Best for Classic Performance
What Impressed Us
- True reference-quality sound
- Extremely comfortable for extended use
- Well-balanced frequency response
What Disappointed Us
- May not be a suitable choice for bass lovers
The Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 is chosen as the best for classic performance due to its long-standing reputation for delivering high-quality sound. These headphones are a staple in the audio industry, known for their reliable and accurate audio reproduction.
The HD 600 features dynamic drivers that provide a balanced and natural sound signature, making them ideal for mixing and mastering. The open-back design contributes to a spacious soundstage, allowing for an immersive listening experience.
These headphones offer a precise frequency response range of 12 Hz to 40 kHz, ensuring detailed and accurate sound reproduction across the entire audio spectrum. This wide frequency range makes them an excellent choice for mixing and mastering, allowing audio professionals to hear every nuance in their tracks with clarity.
The open-back design of the HD 600 provides a natural and expansive sound stage, essential for critical listening and making accurate audio adjustments.
Comfort and build quality are excellent with the HD 600. The headphones have large ear cups and soft ear pads that ensure a comfortable fit for long listening sessions.
They are lightweight and durable, built to withstand regular use. With an impedance of 300 ohms, they require a powerful headphone amplifier for the best performance.
In summary, the Sennheiser HD 600 offers classic performance with reliable and accurate sound, making them a trusted choice for audio professionals.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600
6. Sennheiser HD-206
Best for Budget-Friendly Option
What Impressed Us
- Affordable price
- Decent sound quality for casual listening and monitoring
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Long cable for easy movement
What Disappointed Us
- Rolled off highs and lacking sub-bass presence
- Not suitable for critical studio mixing
For those on a budget, the Sennheiser HD-206 is the best choice. We selected these headphones for their affordability and good performance, making them suitable for entry-level mixing and mastering.
The HD-206 features dynamic drivers that provide clear and balanced sound, suitable for various audio tasks.
These headphones offer a frequency response range of 21 Hz to 18 kHz, providing clear and balanced sound for various audio applications. While not as extensive as some high-end models, this range is suitable for casual listening, monitoring, and basic mixing tasks.
The closed-back design ensures good noise isolation, making them effective for use in noisy environments.
Comfort and portability are strong points of the HD-206. The lightweight design and soft ear pads ensure a comfortable fit for extended use. The build quality is decent for its price, offering good durability. With an impedance of 24 ohms, these headphones are easy to drive and compatible with a wide range of devices.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser HD-206 offers good sound quality and comfort at an affordable price, making them the best budget-friendly option for beginners.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser HD-206
7. Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X
Best for Closed-Back Design
What Impressed Us
- Exceptional sound accuracy for precise mixing and mastering
- Comfortable and lightweight design for extended wear
- Durable and robust build quality
- Suitable for a wide range of applications on various devices
- Natural, finely tuned audio output
What Disappointed Us
- Lacks wireless connectivity and a built-in microphone
- May not be ideal for casual activities like movie watching or music enjoyment
The Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X stands out as the best for closed-back design, offering excellent sound isolation and accurate audio reproduction. We chose these headphones for their ability to provide a focused listening environment, essential for mixing and mastering in noisy settings.
The DT 700 Pro X features dynamic drivers that deliver a balanced frequency response with detailed audio. These headphones feature an impressive frequency response range of 5 Hz to 40 kHz, delivering exceptional clarity and detail across the entire audio spectrum.
This wide frequency range makes them ideal for mixing and mastering, as they accurately reproduce deep lows, detailed mids, and crisp highs without any coloration. The closed-back design of the DT 700 Pro X provides excellent noise isolation, ensuring an immersive listening experience free from external distractions.
Comfort and durability are also top priorities with the DT 700 Pro X. The headphones have soft ear pads and an adjustable headband, ensuring a comfortable fit for long sessions.
They are built with robust materials, ensuring long-lasting durability. With an impedance of 48 ohms, they are versatile and compatible with various audio equipment.
In summary, the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X is the best choice for those needing a closed-back design, offering excellent sound isolation, comfort, and durability for professional audio tasks.
View on Amazon: Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X
Frequently Asked Questions About Mixing and Mastering Headphones
Mixing involves adjusting and balancing different elements of a recording (such as drums, other instruments, vocals, and more) to create a cohesive and polished product. To create balanced and accurate sound, mixing engineers use techniques, such as audio adjustments, panning, EQ optimization, compression, and addition of other effects.
Mastering is the final step in a recording process. It involves further processing the mixed track to create a flawless, final version that is ready for distribution. Mastering engineers adjust the overall volume and EQ of the final track to prepare it for distribution in different formats (such as digital, vinyl, and more).
Both headphones and studio monitors are useful for mixing and mastering in their own ways.
While headphones for mixing and mastering provide music producers with an isolated listening experience to carefully review the details of their mixes, studio monitors used in professional music production allow music producers to get an idea of how their mixes will sound when played on music systems.
We recommend using a mix of both to create and master stellar mixes.
Even though you can mix using any pair of good-quality noise-isolating headphones that deliver accurate sound, we highly recommend investing in a pair of studio headphones for mixing and mastering that deliver studio quality sound.
Studio headphones for mixing typically have a flat frequency response, which allows music producers to assess different elements in their mixes more precisely.
No. You don’t really need noise-canceling headphones for mixing and mastering.
Instead of noise canceling, mixing headphones should be noise isolating. Read the full noise isolating vs. noise canceling headphones comparison.
Even though noise-canceling headphones help a great deal in reducing external noise, their sound signature may lead to sound distortion.
Moreover, they should have flat frequency response from accurate sound reproduction.
In-ear monitors can be used for mixing and mastering. However, they come with their own set of pros and cons.
For example, since in-ear monitors are worn inside the ears, they provide excellent noise isolation, which can be beneficial during both mixing and mastering. However, they are not comfortable for continuous use.
Also, it’s somewhat challenging to achieve flat frequency response and accurate stereo imaging with in-ear monitors, which is much required for mixing and mastering.
If you’re planning to get wireless headphones for mixing or mastering, ensure they have flat frequency response, high impedance, wide soundstage and good noise isolation.
Audio engineers and music producers do not prefer wireless headphones for mixing and mastering as they come with signal latency issues. Therefore, also ensure the wireless headphones you’re planning to buy have stable wireless connection.
It won’t be fair to say wireless headphones are not suitable for mixing and mastering. However, wired headphones are generally prefer for music production as they deliver stable audio.
Final Words
After evaluating numerous headphones for mixing and mastering, we found the Audeze MM-500 and the Sennheiser HD 800S to be the best choices.
The Audeze MM-500 impressed us with its exceptional audio precision, professional-grade performance, and superior comfort.
These headphones deliver unparalleled sound clarity and detail, making them ideal for audio engineers and producers. Their robust build quality and comfortable design ensure they can handle long sessions without compromising on performance.
The Sennheiser HD 800S stood out for its wide soundstage and detailed audio reproduction. These headphones offer an immersive listening experience, perfect for critical listening and mastering.
Their open-back design and high-frequency response capture every nuance of the audio, making them a top choice for professionals. Despite requiring a powerful headphone amplifier due to their high impedance, their performance justifies the investment.
Both models deliver outstanding features and high-quality performance, making them the top picks for anyone seeking the best headphones for mixing and mastering. We were impressed with their overall capabilities and are confident they will meet the needs of most users.
