Best Headphones for Music Production in [2022][Answered]

Looking for the best headphones for music production? You have landed on the right page!

A set of the best studio headphones, in our opinion, is a must-have when monitoring your latest mixes or recording in the studio.

Any good music producer will tell you that they monitor with whatever system they can get their hands on, whether it's a pair of studio monitors, a Bluetooth speaker, or even a vehicle stereo. And, of course, the best studio headphones their budget will allow.

A great pair of studio headphones is perhaps the most used equipment in a producer's studio. They're a must-have tool for evaluating a mix's stereo image, low-end, and fine detail. It's vital to choose the proper set of studio headphones, just like it's crucial to choose the correct pair of studio monitors, but it's a very personal choice.

The ideal monitor wired headphones or wireless headphones for you in the studio will be those that allow you to mix and create the most epic sounding outcome imaginable. Perhaps you're looking for a pair of studio headphones that you can use just for mixing, or something that you can use for everyday music listening as well.

If you're searching for a set of workhorse headphones that can withstand the rigors of everyday living, studio headphones can help, as they're typically manufactured to a higher quality than most general-listening cans.

This guide to the finest studio headphones offers our top recommendations to assist you in making your decision.

Overall Best Headphone for Music Production

AUDIO-TECHNICA ATH-M50X | CLOSED-BACK STUDIO HEADPHONES

Top audio experts and common users alike laud the ATH-M50x professional monitor ear headphone. These closed-back headphone cans have big drivers, excellent sound isolation, and a sturdy build. They also provide outstanding clarity over a wide frequency range. You'll be able to hear more details in your music and make more informed judgments.

Features

• Performance and build quality have received critical recognition.
• The frequency response ranges from 15Hz to 28kHz.
• Rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils in 45 mm large-aperture drivers
• Excellent clarity across a wide frequency range and precise bass response
• The circumaural design moulds around the ears to provide total sound isolation in noisy conditions.
• Swiveling earcups at 90 degrees for easy one-ear monitoring
• Durability and comfort are provided by professional-grade earpad and headband material.
• Design is collapsible for space savings and transportation.
• Three detachable cables (3.9′-9.8′ coiled cable, 3.9′ straight cable, and 9.8′ straight cable) are included.
• It comes with a carrying pouch for storage.
• Tracking, mixing, DJ monitoring, and personal listening are all excellent options.

BEYERDYNAMIC DT 770 PRO 250 OHM | CLOSED-BACK STUDIO HEADPHONES

The classic series from Beyerdynamic includes three models: the DT 770/880/990 PRO. Any of these three models would be a great fit for the studio.

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO headphones are very popular among professional music producers and sound engineers. The 250-ohm model's high impedance produces a rich, transparent sound for critical listening. Furthermore, the comfy soft skin ear cushions make these studio headphones extra-comfortable for extended listening periods.

In addition, the DT 770 PRO headphones recreate the whole frequency range with amazing precision. You'll notice powerful low-frequency detail as well as vivid high-frequency detail.

Consider the DT 880 PRO headphones if you desire a more expansive sound. The semi-open design combines the benefits of open back headphone and closed back headphones. You'll have enough “air” while still being isolated enough to record. They're ideal for use as all-around studio headphones.

Features

• The frequency response ranges from 5Hz to 35kHz.
• Produces a natural, transparent, and detailed sound.
• Circumaural headphones for professional sound in the studio as well as on mobile devices
• A closed-ear design that provides good isolation.
• A novel bass reflex system
• You can replace the large, comfy ear pads.
• A strong and adjustable spring steel headband ensures a comfortable fit.
• All of the components are interchangeable.
• A one-sided cable
• Drawstring bag and 1/4″ adapter are included.

SENNHEISER HD 650 | OPEN-BACK REFERENCE HEADPHONES

The HD 650s are an evolution of the award-winning HD 600, with enhanced materials and engineering. These high-end headphones deliver a balanced, clear sound with exceptional detail. They also set comfort and convenience norms!

Music producers and recording artists will enjoy a spacious, natural sound with the Sennheiser HD 650s. Because they have a high impedance, you should use a headphone amplifier. The high-quality audio will assist you in making educated selections. As a result, your mixes will sound better on different speaker systems.

High-end quality, on the other hand, comes at a larger cost. If you're just getting started, consider the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro. Sennheiser headphones are noted for their quality and precision, but at a reasonable price.

Features

• High-end open, dynamic hi-fi stereo headphones.
• The frequency response ranges from 10Hz to 39.5kHz.
• A sound that is natural, spatial, and precise.
• Acoustic silk was used in the design to guarantee precise damping over the whole frequency range.
• The sensitivity and kinetics of neodymium ferrous magnets are unrivaled.
• Aluminum voice coils are lightweight and give good transient response.
• A pleasant elliptical shape conforms to the contour of your ears.
• High-quality carbon fiber, titanium, and silver finish
• Kevlar-reinforced, oxygen-free copper cable that is detachable
• Gold plated 1/8″ stereo jack with 1/4″ adaptor

ADAM STUDIO PRO SP-5 Headphones

Adam Audio is well-known for its high-quality studio monitor speakers. The SP-5 is their first entry into the headphone industry, but they're shaping up to be just as appealing as its speaker environments.

The SP-5s are designed to provide a balanced and dynamic response for mixing and monitoring. The 40mm gold-plated diaphragm provides a broad response with outstanding transient response and low distortion. Their S-LOGIC Plus technology from Ultrasone produces a natural, three-dimensional sound by utilizing a decentralized driver location that engages the outer ear before blasting your auditory canal. It enables it to determine direction and distances, as well as spatial information, which is becoming increasingly prevalent in music mixing for games and other media.

The S-LOGIC technology also allows it to extract some of the energy from the music without diminishing loudness, minimizing tiredness in your ears – allowing you to wear these all day. There's even special shielding to keep magnetic radiation to a minimum. A lot of effort has gone into making these headphones comfortable and easy to use in conditions where you may need to wear them all day, which is common in domestic mixing situations.

SHURE SRH1540 | CLOSED-BACK PREMIUM HEADPHONES

The SRH1540 Premium headphones will surround you in comfort and professional sound quality. They have a large soundstage with crisp, extended highs and warm bass. The genuine, precise sound, wide stereo image, and depth will appeal to you. It provides an eerily similar monitoring experience to that of a speaker.

Furthermore, the SRH1540s have a strong construction made of aluminum alloy and carbon fiber elements. The lightweight and long-lasting design includes Alcantara ear pads for maximum sound isolation and comfort.

Features

• The frequency response ranges from 5Hz to 25KHz.
• Superior acoustic performance is provided by 40 mm neodymium drivers.
• The circumaural, closed-back design fits comfortably over the ears and eliminates background noise.
• The lightweight design includes For increased durability, an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy yoke and carbon fiber are used.
• Internal resonance is eliminated by using a steel driver frame with a ventilated center pole piece.
• Ergonomic dual-frame for a snug fit
• The padded headband is lightweight and adjustable, allowing you to listen for hours on end.
• Copper cable with an oxygen-free jacket made of Kevlar
• Dual-exit cables with gold-plated connections are detachable.
• Earpads are replaceable and made of Alcantara and low-density, slow-recovery foam.
• The rugged design will survive the rigors of daily use.
• Zippered protective case, 1/4″ adaptor, two detachable cables, and Alcantara earpads are included.

SONY MDR-7506 STUDIO HEADPHONE

The Sony MDR series has been around for a long time and has a great studio heritage, as evidenced by decades of everyday use in the recording and broadcast industries around the world. The MDR-7506's present form is a fantastic combination of comfort, functionality, and value.

These are extremely comfortable to wear for extended periods of time and are intended to highlight what's wrong with a recording rather than what's right. The sound is strong and clear throughout the spectrum (with a little boost in the upper mids) and manages not to be overly-flattering.

Overall, the fact that these workhorse cans are available for much under a hundred pounds is not to be overlooked.

AKG K240 MKII | SEMI-OPEN STUDIO HEADPHONES

The K240 MKII professional headphones have long been a studio standard. Pro engineers and musicians have made the K240 the most extensively used studio headphones for decades.

Their cutting-edge transducers produce a strong bass end, precise mids, and crystal-clear highs. The semi-open design combines the open-headphone airiness with the powerful bass response of closed models.

The K240 MKII also has a broad frequency range, allowing for reliable monitoring. These headphones are extremely sturdy and comfy, in addition to having superb sound quality.

Also, if you like AKG headphones, take a look at the K702. The K702 open-back headphones deliver pinpoint precision, exceptional imaging, and a wide frequency response.

Features

• Frequency range: 15Hz – 25kHz
• Design is semi-open and circumaural.
• Transducers 30 mm XXL with unique Varimotion diaphragm
• The self-adjusting headband ensures a perfect fit.
• Earpads made of leatherette and velvet for long-lasting comfort
• The wide dynamic range produces clear, detailed sound.
• 10′ straight cable and 16′ coiled cable are detachable.
• Included is a 1/8′′ stereo mini-plug with a 1/4′′ adaptor.

FOCAL LISTEN PROFESSIONAL STUDIO HEADPHONES

The Focal Listen Professionals do exactly what they say on the package; they are great for both listening and professional responsibilities. This places them firmly at the top of the all-rounder class. Overall, the fit is snug, but not so tight that long durations in the mixing saddle are agonizing.

Far from it; the longest time we kept them on was about three hours, with the primary difficulties being back ache and a lack of blinking. While many engineers and audio specialists favor open-backed designs because they are less tiring, the closed Listen Pros perform admirably in this regard.

These cans' response was wonderfully balanced, with amazingly neutral, powerful bass with plenty of extension, rich, clear mids, and dazzling, silky highs. We don't think there's a better all-around studio headset at this price, which comes with a lovely hard-shell box.

Best Budget Headphones for Music Production

Sennheiser HD-206 Studio Headphones

If you're looking for a low-cost pair of studio headphones, go no further than the Sennheiser HD-206. The incredibly strong and durable HD-206's, which bear the well-known Sennheiser name on the headband, are comfortable to wear for lengthy periods of time.

The HD-206's are remarkably accurate for the price, and they compare favorably to much more expensive competitors. The bass response is especially deep and crisp, with plenty of clarity in the mids and highs – making these perhaps some of the best guitar amp headphones.

The hypoallergenic ear cushions are more than effective for blocking out extraneous noise whether in the studio or on the go, and at this price, you won't be afraid to slip these in your laptop bag. Get your hands on a pair before Sennheiser realizes how fantastic they are and raises the price.

Audio Technica ATH-M50x Headphones (or ATH-M50xBT)

The ATH-M50x studio headphones are perhaps the most traditional studio headphones utilized by electronic music producers. And it's not all bluster; they're solid-sounding and reasonably priced, so it makes sense.

The low-end response is one of the characteristics that makes them appealing for electronic music. It's a little noisy, but it's clear enough that you can hear what's going on down there.

Aside from that, they're comfortable to wear for long periods of time, convenient to wear on the road, and quite portable, all for less than $200.

The only drawbacks are the closed-back design and the previously stated bass hype.

Features

• Large-aperture 45mm drivers
• Swivel earcups with a 90-degree swivel
• Earcups that collapse and have a removable cable
• 15-28000 Hz frequency response circumaural (round) earcups

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Headphones

The DT 770 Pros are another popular pair of studio headphones among music producers because they are strong, dependable, and comfy.

In comparison to the ATH-M50x, these have a flatter frequency response and a much broader soundstage. The bass is less severe, yet it is still powerful enough for making electronic music.

Many individuals believe they fit more snugly on your head, but with a stronger clamp.

If you are easily weary by using headphones, these may be a little more difficult to use. That being said, wear them first because the broader ear cup may help, and the isolation is also quite good.

The solid metal frame, thanks to German engineering, also makes them a lot more sturdy than other pairs in this price range, which is nice to consider for lifetime but a bit more of a nuisance for portability and weight (also considering the cable is not detachable).

The closed-back style is common in under $300 pairs of studio headphones. If you want similar features in an open-back model, go with the DT 990 Pro.

Features

• “Bass reflex” technology enhances bass response.
• Earpads made of velour that can be replaced
• Drawstring bag is included.
• Frequency response: 5-35000Hz
• Impedance of 25, 80, or 250 ohms (depending on model)

AKG K240 Studio Headphones

If you're looking for open-back studio headphones on a budget, these are your best bet.

They are technically semi-open-back, but for you, it may be the ideal balance of noise isolation and sound quality. And the cups are really tasty as well!

The bass is clear, the highs are detailed, and they look great in black and gold.

Features

• To reduce fatigue, an over-the-ear design was used.
• Semi-open back design
• 30mm drivers with a frequency response of 15-25000Hz and an impedance of 55ohms

Best Pro-Level Studio Headphones Under $1000

Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro Headphones

These are as comfortable as their sibling, but have a much superior sound response. So, if you don't need to avoid sound leaking, go with these.

The biggest difference in sound quality is that the stereo image seems much more “open.” This improves the overall frequency response marginally, but it's still not significantly better than the 770s. The main difference is a slightly lower bottom end, but that's all.

Like the 770s, I have to crank these up quite a bit to get excellent sound out of them. This is because the 250ohm model has a high impedance, therefore make sure you're using an audio interface or a dedicated amplifier. The cable on this pair is also not detachable.

Features

• The diffuse-field design is completely open back headphones.
• A lightweight diaphragm ensures excellent audio performance.
• Frequency response: 5Hz-35kHz
• Frequency response of 250 ohms
• Circumaural ear pads

AKG K701 Headphones

AKG K701 is recognized for being on the slightly more economical end of the spectrum, but that doesn't mean their headphones aren't worth considering – even at this price point.

They offer excellent sound quality, however not as much bass as some of the other open back alternatives.

They have a somewhat flatter top end than the K240s, making them excellent for studio use.

One significant advantage of these headphones is their loose shape, which makes them suitable for people who dislike tight headphones.

In addition, if you prefer straight wires versus coiled ones, these are a good choice.

Features

• Flat wire voice coil technology ensures high-quality audio reproduction and transient reproduction.
• Ear cushions with a unique design for comfort
• 10-39800Hz frequency response 62ohms impedance
• M-100 V-Moda Crossfade

They are DJ headphone rather than studio headphones, but that doesn't mean they can't be used in the studio. These headphones are a terrific all-arounder, especially if you're a DJ.

They offer exceptionally good sound quality for studio use and a superb but not overhyped bass response.

Features

• Over-ear circumaural ear cups
• 5-30,000 Hz frequency response
• 32ohms impedance
• Immortal Life Replacement Program – discount on future headphones

Final Thoughts on Best Headphones for Music Production

A good pair of headphones is an essential component of any studio.

They can provide a distinct perspective on your mixes, help to remove you from a noisy setting, and allow you to listen deeply and analytically; when wearing headphones, you always notice your largest mixing problems.

Typically, headphones serve multiple functions. They may be required for monitoring while recording instruments in order to keep the music out of the microphone. You'll need “Closed-back” headphones for the optimum isolation. If you're mixing or monitoring electronic instruments, “open-back” headphones will provide a more natural sound and be less tiring on the ears.

There are a lot of outstanding studio headphones, bluetooth headphone, regular headphone, music production headphones that has a active noise cancelling useful for in recording vocals of yours! These are available at modest rates, and cover a variety of price points in our round-up. Hopefully, you'll be able to locate something that suits both your budget and your level of professionalism.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS)