Music production, recording, and mixing all need extensive listening sessions. You’ll be doing a lot of listening in the studio to ensure our music recordings sound flawless on every platform. This is where you need the best studio headphones.
Research shows that the global studio headphones market size is projected to reach multi-million by 2028, in comparison to 2021, at unexpected CAGR during 2022-2028.
Standard headphones won’t help here. Studio headphones provide clear audio reproduction. After carefully identifying any audio issues, you can make the required modifications during production.
However, there are many studio headphones on the market right now and it can be daunting to find the best ones for your next recording. So, instead of directly picking the costliest option, we recommend considering studio headphones that excel in different areas, such as sound quality, comfort, durability, price, and so on.
To help you find the top studio headphones on the market, we evaluated over 40 studio headphones over two months. After thorough due diligence, we shortlisted 8 studio headphones that are worth a try.
Roundup of the Best Studio Headphones
| Overall Best | Audio-Technica ATH-M50X |
| Best for Comfort | beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 |
| Best for Open-Back Design | beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X |
| Best for Audiophiles | Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 – Audiophile |
| Best for Detailed Sound | beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250 |
| Best Budget Option | Superlux HD 681 Dynamic Semi-Open Headphones |
| Best for Beginners | Sennheiser HD 206 Stereo Headphone |
| Best for Professional Use | Focal Listen Professional |
9 Things to Consider When Buying Studio Headphones
1. Usage
Do you want a pair of headphones for mixing only or studio recording? Perhaps you’re interested in headphones that can serve as a mixing and monitoring tool.
There are also headphones designed specifically for studio recordings and monitoring. Therefore, first and foremost, you must determine why you need studio headphones.
Mixing engineers, music producers who also mix, and generalists who can do it all, require studio headphones. After all, studio headphones are one of the most important music production equipment.
2. Open-Back, Closed-Back or Semi-Open
Based on physical appearance, there are three types of studio headphones.
- Open-back
- Closed-back
- Semi-open
The design of open-back headphones allows the built-up pressure of sound inside the headphones to escape. These headphones are best for mixing as the open-back design prevents any internal audio reflection, and results in more precise frequencies.
Even though open-back studio headphones are prone to more background noise, music producers prefer them for mixing as they sound more natural than closed-back headphones.
In contrast to open-back models, closed-back headphones provide an enclosed sound chamber. Vocalists, in particular, use these headphones to monitor how they sound to their audiences.
The real benefit of closed-back headphones is that they block out more ambient noise than open-back headphones. Therefore, most audio professionals use closed-back headphones for studio recordings.
Semi-open headphones have a vent in the back that lets out excess pressure, so they aren’t as loud as open-back. You can use them for mixing and monitoring.
3. Accuracy
A professional mix is the final aim whether you mix with headphones or monitors, closed-back, open-back, or semi-open headphones. Furthermore, mixing success relies heavily on precision.
Your expertise and equipment will determine the final sound of your mixes during music production. You can’t get a professional-sounding mix without equipment that gives you precise frequency readings.
Ensure the studio headphones you’re planning to buy have a flat frequency response as they will deliver the most accurate impression of your music recording or mix.
4. Noise Isolation
When shopping for headphones to use in a studio, noise isolation is paramount.
The driver of studio headphones is typically padded with foam for isolation. This foam prevents the headphones’ sound from escaping into the outer world and isolates the headphones’ sound from any ambient noise.
Recording studios need a high level of isolation.
A good pair of headphones will keep the click tracks from escaping and being picked up by the microphones and block out ambient noise so that the performer can focus on their instrument or voice without being distracted.
In contrast to closed-back headphones, open-back headphones’ isolation is limited to blocking outside noise from entering the enclosure, making them perfect for mixing.
Closed-back headphones have two ways to achieve isolation. That indicates that neither outside noise nor sound from the headset escapes.
5. Comfort
Being a professional music producer requires many hours glued to the mixing board and monitor.
Consequently, ease of use is just as vital as other factors. Moreover, you can’t manage the production flow if you can’t sit for lengthy periods with your headphones on.
If you plan on using headphones for an extended period, you want to make sure you choose a comfortable pair.
One of the most useful music production tips is that you must always select comfortable equipment over fancy music production equipment.
6. Sensitivity
The sensitivity of a headphone is its ability to transform electrical information into audible sound. If the headphones can output 1 milliwatt, the volume level is 90 decibels.
The greater the sensitivity, the more impressive the sound quality. Choose headphones with a greater sensitivity if you want to hear every detail.
7. Wired or Wireless
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth have quickly become standard wireless connectivity options, and they’re a great replacement for wired headphones. However, wired headphones are best for usage in a recording studio. Some headphones allow you to disconnect the cord from the studio headphones.
It is because wireless connections may not be compatible with most professional studio equipment because of typical latency issues. It’s also worth noting that wireless transmission sometimes results in signal compression, so you may not obtain the purest possible sound quality. However, per another research, the global studio monitor headphones market has seen an upswing in innovation during the last few years, and wireless and Bluetooth technology has revolutionized the growing market.
8. Impedance
The lower a headphone’s impedance, the greater the sound quality, even when supplied by a relatively weak source. Headphones require higher power with a high impedance if they are to play back high-quality audio.
9. Driver
The greater the volume, the larger the driver. But it would be incorrect to believe that sound quality is directly proportional to speaker size since the earphones would have the worst sound quality, right?
While the size of the driver is still important to consider when purchasing headphones, the material utilized to create the driver has a greater impact on sound quality.
How to Assess the Sound Quality of Studio Headphones?
The sound quality of studio headphones is based on both their objective qualities (such as frequency response, total harmonic distortion (THD), signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), and so on) and the subjective quality (how much you like listening to music with them).
1. Frequency Response
While talking about headphones, the term “frequency response” refers to the frequencies that you can hear when using the headphones. Wider ranges are preferred; however, it varies from model to model. For example, the typical human hearing range is 20Hz to 20kHz, which is the frequency range faithfully reproduced by the vast majority of headphones (aka audible spectrum).
Although most people’s ears cannot pick up all of these frequencies, the human body and brain can still detect them, making headphones with a wider range considered preferable.
2. Total Harmonic Distortion (THD)
Audiophiles and professional musicians often need this information, but the average consumer has no idea what it means or how to use it properly with their audio gear. THD metric represents the harmonic distortion (due to driver flaws) in the signal that your headphones pick up.
This data is often omitted from spec sheets, even though values below 1% are preferred. Though it would be ideal to eliminate all distortion, this is not achievable; thus, you should adhere to the rule that reduced THD results in greater sound quality and more correctly recorded audio information.
3. Signal-to-Noise and Distortion Ratio (SNDR)
The signal-to-noise ratio (SNDR) is a metric for assessing transmission efficiency. The standard unit of measurement for SNDR is decibels (dB).
The signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) is another way to put it, and it refers to how well a signal is transmitted or received relative to the combined strength of any background noise or distortion.
4. Spurious-Free Dynamic Range (SFDR)
Small-signal-to-noise ratio (SFDR) is a metric for determining how much noise you can tolerate before marking a significantly weaker signal.
A better definition would be the output’s ratio of the fundamental signal to the strongest interference signal. As a rule, the SFDR is expressed as dBc (in terms of the carrier signal) or dBFS (in terms of a full-scale range).
5. Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR)
Sound-to-noise ratio (SNR) is a dB-based indicator of audio quality (decibels). If the SNR of your headphones is high, it means that they can faithfully reproduce the source sound (the sound of higher quality).
Most of us don’t have perfect hearing; thus, the ideal headphones help us overcome our hearing loss while providing an exciting, uplifting listening experience. So, if you’re still not convinced by these scientific metrics for evaluating the quality of a pair of headphones’ sound, we advise you to drop the matter.
You should go to a shop and try on a bunch of different shoes. You can’t go wrong with headphones if you listen to some of your favorite songs on several sets and then get the one that makes you want to get up and dance. So forget the statistics and press play!
How to Properly Use Studio Headphones?
It takes more than buying a good pair if you want to get the most out of your headphones. In this section, we will explain here how to use studio headphones properly.
1. Observe Audio Levels Correctly
You need to adjust the monitoring levels so that loud noises are not played again at a louder volume than they were recorded at if you want to hear all frequencies.
Get the volume down low at first, then gradually turn it up until you reach a level where you can hear every frequency clearly without any sonic distortion.
Nonetheless, it would be best if you use caution. Moreover, exposure to excessive loudness over extended periods might cause temporary or permanent hearing loss.
2. Utilize Superior Audio Equipment
If you’re going to be utilizing headphones for monitoring, you must power them by reliable equipment. Also, by investing in high-quality hardware, you can be sure your headphones are getting the juice they need to perform at their best.
Invest in a high-quality audio cable, mixer, and other accessories to get the most out of your headphones.
3. Try Different Musical Genres
You should expand your musical horizons beyond the genres you already know. Moreover, you may practice mixing in various settings and with many musical genres in this manner.
Using monitoring headphones will enable you to listen more critically than conventional speakers, ultimately leading to higher-quality music production.
Additionally, if you listen to a wide variety of music, you’ll get insight into optimizing your system’s middle and treble.
4. Wear Headphones Properly
When using headphones, ensure that you have fastened them securely before you begin listening.
- Determine the left and right sides of the on-ear or over-ear headphones. Typically, each side’s “L” and “R” signs indicate the typical orientation.
- After confirming proper alignment, put the headphones on. You must place the headband over the middle of your head and each ear cup squarely on the ears.
- Try several positions for the earpads to rest on your ears while using on-ear headphones to find one that allows you to hear the music well without feeling too constrained or unpleasant.
- Make sure the earpads on any over-ear headphones fully enclose your ears. It is advantageous to wear the headphones with your ears in the center of the ear cups and with no visible protrusion from the ear pads.
- Adjust the headphones’ additional components as needed. The headband’s clamping force, the height of the headphones, and you can alter the cord’s location (for wired headsets) to prevent obstructions. Play around with the placement to get the best fit.
Top 8 Studio Headphones on the Market
1. Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
Overall Best
What Impressed Us
- Excellent sound quality with clear highs and strong bass
- Comfortable and durable build
- Detachable cables for flexibility
- Affordable price
- Suitable for both professional and casual use
What Disappointed Us
- May not be ideal for audiophiles seeking high-fidelity sound
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50X was chosen as the best studio headphones for 2024 because of its exceptional sound quality, durability, and widespread acclaim among professionals and enthusiasts alike. We selected this model because it strikes the perfect balance between performance and affordability, making it a top choice for anyone serious about audio production or critical listening.
With a frequency response range of 15 Hz to 28,000 Hz, it offers exceptional clarity and deep, accurate bass, making it ideal for detailed audio work such as mixing and mastering.
Its closed-back design ensures excellent sound isolation, allowing users to focus on the details without external noise interference. The ear cups are comfortable and provide a snug fit, making them ideal for long studio sessions.
Best for overall use, the ATH-M50X is versatile and reliable, making it ideal for a variety of tasks, from mixing and mastering in the studio to casual listening. Its accurate sound reproduction and extended frequency range ensure that every detail in your audio is captured, making it an essential tool for any audio professional.
These headphones are wired and over-the-ear, providing a secure and comfortable fit for extended sessions.
While they don’t feature active noise-canceling technology, the closed-back design offers excellent sound isolation, allowing you to focus on your work without external distractions. The build quality is robust, and the collapsible design makes them portable and easy to store.
In conclusion, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X is the overall best choice for anyone looking for high-quality studio headphones in 2024. Its superb sound quality, comfort, and durability make it a standout option for both professionals and casual listeners.
View on Amazon: Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
2. beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80
Best for Comfort
What Impressed Us
- Excellent mid-range and bass response
- Comfortable and durable design
- Well-suited for professional and critical listening applications
- Good soundstage presentation
- Available in different impedance options
What Disappointed Us
- Cable is non-detachable
The beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 was chosen as the best studio headphones in the comfort category for 2024 because of its exceptional build quality and plush ear pads, which make it ideal for long studio sessions.
We selected this model because it provides a comfortable fit that allows users to work for hours without experiencing fatigue, which is essential for audio professionals.
The beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 Ohm is an excellent choice for studio professionals and audiophiles alike, particularly noted for its exceptional sound isolation and precise audio reproduction.
With a frequency response range of 5 Hz to 35,000 Hz, these closed-back headphones deliver a deep, punchy bass, clear mids, and detailed highs, making them ideal for critical listening, mixing, and mastering. The 80 Ohm version is known for its versatility, providing a balanced sound that works well across various genres of music.
Best for comfort, the DT 770 Pro 80 is perfect for those who need to wear headphones for extended periods. The soft, circumaural ear pads gently enclose the ears, while the adjustable headband ensures a secure, yet comfortable fit. This makes it an excellent choice for mixing, mastering, or even casual listening.
These headphones are wired and over-the-ear, offering excellent sound isolation due to their closed-back design. This helps to minimize external noise, allowing you to focus on your work.
In conclusion, the beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 is the best choice for those who prioritize comfort during long studio sessions. Its exceptional build quality and comfortable fit make it a reliable and enjoyable option for any audio professional.
View on Amazon: beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80
3. beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X
Best for Open-Back Design
What Impressed Us
- Neutral frequency response with a slightly bright tone
- Excellent instrument separation for analytical listening
- Solid but lightweight construction
- Comfortable design with a sturdy headband and velour ear cups
- Good soundstage with a sense of sibilance and high-frequency percussion
What Disappointed Us
- Headband can be uncomfortable for larger heads
The beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X was selected as the best studio headphones in the open-back design category for 2024 because of its ability to deliver a natural and spacious soundstage.
We chose this model for its superior performance in environments where a more open and airy audio experience is needed, making it ideal for critical listening and mixing.
Designed with professionals in mind, these headphones offer an expansive soundstage, providing a natural and immersive listening experience. The DT 900 PRO X has a frequency response range of 5 Hz to 40,000 Hz, delivering rich, accurate bass, detailed mids, and crisp highs.
This wide frequency range ensures that you can hear every nuance in your audio, making them ideal for mixing, mastering, and critical listening.
Best for those who need an open-back design, the DT 900 PRO X excels in creating a realistic sound environment, which is perfect for audio engineers who require precise and accurate monitoring. The open-back design allows for better airflow, reducing pressure on the ears and making long listening sessions more comfortable.
These are wired, over-the-ear headphones, offering a comfortable fit and excellent build quality. The sound reproduction is accurate and detailed, with a balanced frequency response that makes them ideal for professional use. While they don’t provide active noise cancellation, the open-back design contributes to a more natural listening experience, making them great for studio work where sound leakage is not a concern.
In conclusion, the beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X is the best option for those who prefer an open-back design for their studio work. Its ability to provide a natural, detailed soundstage makes it an excellent choice for critical listening and mixing tasks.
View on Amazon: beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X
4. Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 – Audiophile
Best for Audiophiles
What Impressed Us
- Exceptional sound quality with a well-balanced frequency response
- Comfortable to wear with large ear cups and suede-like padding
- Solid build quality
- Suitable for professional audio engineers and audiophiles
- Can be used for critical listening sessions without fatigue
What Disappointed Us
- Headband may feel tight and exert pressure on the head
The Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 was chosen as the best studio headphones in the audiophile category for 2024 due to its legendary status among audio enthusiasts for delivering unmatched sound quality.
We selected this model because it provides a truly immersive listening experience, making it the go-to choice for audiophiles who demand the highest fidelity.
The Sennheiser HD 600 is a classic choice among audiophiles, celebrated for its precise and natural sound reproduction. These open-back headphones are designed to deliver an exceptionally transparent sound, making them perfect for critical listening and studio use.
With a frequency response range of 12 Hz to 40,500 Hz, the HD 600s provide a well-balanced audio experience, with clear highs, detailed mids, and deep, controlled bass. This wide frequency range ensures that you hear every detail in your music, making them ideal for discerning listeners.
Best for audiophiles, the HD 600 excels in reproducing sound with incredible detail and accuracy. Its open-back design allows for a spacious soundstage, creating a lifelike audio experience that is perfect for critical listening, mastering, and enjoying music with the utmost clarity and precision.
These are wired, over-the-ear headphones designed with comfort in mind, featuring a lightweight frame and soft, replaceable ear pads. The HD 600 does not include active noise cancellation, but its open-back design and precise engineering make up for this by offering a transparent and natural sound. The build quality is sturdy, ensuring long-term use without compromising on comfort.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 is the ultimate choice for audiophiles seeking the best sound quality in studio headphones. Its unparalleled audio performance and comfortable design make it a must-have for anyone serious about their listening experience.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 600 – Audiophile
5. beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250
Best for Detailed Sound
What Impressed Us
- Durable and lightweight build
- Comfortable fit with velour earpads and a soft headband
- Neutral frequency response with a clear and crisp sound
- Wide soundstage and detailed highs
- Affordable price point
What Disappointed Us
- Requires a powerful amplifier to drive effectively
- Open-back design may not be suitable for everyday use due to sound leakage
The beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250 was selected as the best studio headphones for detailed sound in 2024 because of its ability to reproduce audio with exceptional clarity and precision.
We chose this model for its open-back design, which provides an expansive soundstage, making it ideal for professionals who need to hear every detail in their mixes.
The beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250 Ohm headphones are a favorite among audio professionals and enthusiasts alike, known for their open-back design and outstanding audio clarity.
With a frequency response range of 5 Hz to 35,000 Hz, these headphones deliver a broad and detailed soundscape, making them perfect for critical listening, mixing, and mastering in a studio environment.
The open-back design of the DT 990 PRO contributes to a wide and natural soundstage, offering an immersive listening experience with clear highs, rich mids, and a tight, punchy bass. The 250 Ohm impedance makes them ideal for use with high-quality audio interfaces and amplifiers, ensuring the best possible audio fidelity.
These headphones are wired and over-the-ear, featuring an open-back design that enhances the sense of space in the audio. While they don’t have active noise cancellation, the open-back design ensures a natural sound experience, making them suitable for use in quiet environments.
The build quality is robust, and the headphones are comfortable enough for extended use, thanks to their soft ear pads and adjustable headband.
In conclusion, the beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250 is the best choice for those who need detailed sound in their studio headphones. Its ability to reveal every nuance in the audio makes it an essential tool for professional audio work.
View on Amazon: beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250
6. Superlux HD 681 Dynamic Semi-Open Headphones
Best Budget Option
What Impressed Us
- Neutral sound profile with good bass and clear vocals
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Affordable price point
- Good THD performance
- Suitable for studio monitoring and home use
What Disappointed Us
- Build quality reflects the low price, with a plastic build that may not be durable
- Semi-open-back design leaks audio and lets in ambient sound
The Superlux HD 681 Dynamic Semi-Open Headphones were chosen as the best budget studio headphones for 2024 because they offer incredible value without sacrificing sound quality.
We selected this model for its ability to deliver a balanced audio experience at an affordable price, making it a great option for those just starting in audio production or on a tight budget.
Known for their exceptional sound quality at an affordable price, these headphones offer a frequency response range of 10 Hz to 30,000 Hz, ensuring a broad and detailed audio spectrum.
The semi-open design provides a balanced sound with a natural feel, combining the benefits of both open and closed-back headphones. This design helps deliver a spacious soundstage, making them ideal for mixing and mastering, as well as casual listening.
The sound quality is impressive for the price, with clear highs, balanced mids, and deep bass. The build quality is decent, though not as robust as more expensive models, but they are lightweight and comfortable for extended use.
In conclusion, the Superlux HD 681 Dynamic Semi-Open Headphones are the best budget option for those who want good sound quality at an affordable price. They offer excellent value and are a great choice for beginners or those looking for a cost-effective solution in the studio.
View on Amazon: Superlux HD 681 Dynamic Semi-Open Headphones
7. Sennheiser HD 206 Stereo Headphones
Best for Beginners
What Impressed Us
- Affordable price
- Decent sound quality for the price
- Closed-back design helps to block out external noise
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Good for casual listening and monitoring
What Disappointed Us
- Build quality could be better
- Materials used feel cheap
The Sennheiser HD 206 Stereo Headphones were chosen as the best studio headphones for beginners in 2024 because they provide a reliable, no-nonsense audio experience at a very affordable price.
We selected this model for its simplicity, making it a perfect entry-level option for those new to audio production or casual listeners.
Best for beginners, the HD 206 is ideal for those who need a straightforward, easy-to-use pair of headphones without the complexity of more advanced models.
These closed-back, over-ear headphones deliver a frequency response range of 21 Hz to 18,000 Hz, which ensures clear and balanced audio suitable for various music genres and casual listening.
The sound profile of the HD 206 is well-balanced, with strong bass, clear mids, and crisp highs, making them a versatile choice for different audio tasks, including monitoring, casual listening, and multimedia use.
While the bass may not be as powerful as more expensive models, it still offers a satisfying punch without overpowering the mids and highs.
These are wired, over-the-ear headphones with a closed-back design that helps to reduce ambient noise. The sound quality is balanced, providing clear audio that’s well-suited for general use.
The headphones are lightweight and comfortable, with a durable design that can withstand regular use, making them a dependable choice for beginners.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser HD 206 Stereo Headphone is the best option for beginners looking for a simple, reliable pair of studio headphones. Its combination of affordability, decent sound quality, and comfort makes it an excellent starting point for anyone new to audio work.
View on Amazon: Sennheiser HD 206 Stereo Headphones
8. Focal Listen Professional
Best for Professional Use
What Impressed Us
- Excellent build quality and comfort
- Versatile frequency response with clear high-end and deep bass reproduction
- Effective isolation and minimal fatigue
- Suitable for tracking and mixing applications
- Good value for the price
What Disappointed Us
- Mid-frequency coloration may affect mixing and mastering accuracy
- Limited stereo imaging
The Focal Listen Professional was chosen as the best studio headphones for professional use in 2024 due to its outstanding sound accuracy and build quality.
We selected this model because it meets the demands of professional audio work, delivering precise sound reproduction that’s essential for critical listening, mixing, and mastering.
With a frequency response of 5 Hz to 22,000 Hz, these closed-back headphones deliver an exceptionally detailed and balanced sound profile, capturing the full spectrum of audio frequencies with impressive accuracy.
The Listen Professional headphones are known for their tight, punchy bass, natural mids, and crisp highs, making them ideal for critical listening and studio work. The sound isolation is excellent, ensuring that external noise doesn’t interfere with your audio experience, which is crucial in a professional setting.
Best for professionals, the Focal Listen Professional excels in providing a neutral, detailed sound signature that allows audio engineers to make informed decisions in the studio. Its ability to reproduce audio with high fidelity makes it ideal for demanding tasks where accuracy is paramount.
These headphones are wired and over-the-ear, featuring a closed-back design that provides excellent sound isolation, allowing you to focus on your work without distraction.
The build quality is robust, designed for long-term use in a professional setting. They are also comfortable for extended periods, with memory foam ear pads that ensure a snug fit.
In conclusion, the Focal Listen Professional is the best choice for professionals who need high-precision studio headphones. Its superior sound quality and durable construction make it an invaluable tool for serious audio work.
View on Amazon: Focal Listen Professional
Frequently Asked Questions About Studio Headphones
Reference headphones are designed to reproduce audio with exceptional accuracy, making them a vital tool for professionals in sound creation, mixing, and mastering. The primary goal of reference headphones is to deliver a neutral sound profile, meaning they don’t emphasize or color any part of the audio spectrum.
This neutrality allows audio engineers and musicians to hear the sound exactly as it was recorded, ensuring that any adjustments made during mixing or mastering are based on a true representation of the audio.
These headphones are commonly used in recording studios where precision and clarity are crucial. Unlike consumer headphones, which may boost bass or treble to appeal to specific listening preferences, reference headphones aim to provide a flat frequency response. This feature is essential for making accurate decisions during the audio production process.
Studio monitor headphones provide precise and detailed sound reproduction when listening to music. They work very well for both professional artists trying to create and others who want to jam out. These headphones provide an authentic sound, not simply a pleasant one.
You’ll often put on a pair of studio monitor headphones for:
Mixing audio
The neutral frequency response of studio monitor headphones is ideal for mixing music since it places little focus or de-emphasis on certain frequencies. Moreover, it is critical because it lets the user hear the bass, mids, and highs without “coloration.”
Monitoring while recording
Monitoring in audio production is the process of actively listening to and evaluating the musical and technical qualities of a recording while it is being made. The headphones’ audio reproduction quality is crucial for this task. It has to precisely pick up and differentiate between instruments, allowing for fine-tuned volume control.
Even though studio headphones are typically designed for mixing, monitoring and recording music, they can be used for gaming if you’re looking for excellent sound performance.
Since studio headphones come with a wide frequency response and precise sound production, they can be highly suitable for delivering immersive and detailed sound while gaming. Nevertheless, some studio headphones lack features required for gaming, such as noise cancelation and surround sound. Moreover, they are bulkier than gaming headphones and headsets, and unsuitable for long gaming sessions.
Studio monitors and studio headphones are both essential tools in the audio production process, but they serve different purposes and have distinct characteristics.
Studio Monitors:
Definition: Studio monitors are high-end speakers designed to reproduce audio with precision and accuracy. They deliver a flat frequency response, ensuring that the sound is not colored or enhanced, allowing for an accurate representation of the audio being produced.
Acoustic Accuracy: They provide a true acoustic picture of the audio, making them ideal for mixing and mastering, where hearing the sound as it truly is, without any alterations, is crucial.
Stereo Image: Studio monitors offer a larger, more accurate stereo image, which is beneficial for spatial awareness in the mix.
Cost and Portability: They are often more expensive and less portable than studio headphones. They require a dedicated space for proper setup, usually in a well-treated room to avoid acoustic interference.
Studio Headphones:
Definition: Studio headphones are designed to provide detailed audio, isolating the listener from external sounds. They are used primarily for detecting imperfections in the recording, such as noise, distortion, or unbalanced levels.
Critical Listening: Unlike consumer headphones, studio headphones do not enhance the audio. They offer an unfiltered, honest sound, enabling sound engineers to identify issues that need correction.
Portability and Cost: Studio headphones are portable, making them convenient for on-the-go audio work. They are generally more affordable than studio monitors, making them accessible for a broader range of users.
Isolation: They allow for detailed listening without disturbing others, which is particularly useful in environments where noise might be an issue, such as small apartments.
Key Differences:
Mobility: Studio headphones are portable, while studio monitors are not.
Cost: Studio monitors tend to be more expensive than studio headphones.
Stereo Imaging: Studio monitors offer a broader, more accurate stereo image compared to headphones.
Application: Headphones are better for isolating imperfections, while monitors are better for a balanced stereo image and spatial clarity.
Environment: Monitors can cause disturbances in small or shared spaces, whereas headphones offer a private listening experience.
Final Words
In conclusion, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X stands out as the overall best choice for its exceptional sound quality and versatility, making it perfect for any studio work. On the other hand, the beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 is the best for comfort, ideal for long sessions with its plush design. Both headphones deliver outstanding performance, catering to different needs in the studio.
However, you can pick any other studio headphones from our list, as we have tested them thoroughly.
