Top 10 Studio Headphones for Professional Mixing
In this article,
- 1 Top 5 Closed-Back Studio Headphones
- 2 Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- 3 Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO
- 4 Sony MDR-7506
- 5 Sennheiser HD 300 PRO
- 6 Focal Listen Professional
- 7 Top 5 Open-Back Studio Headphones
- 8 Sennheiser HD 600
- 9 Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO
- 10 AKG K702
- 11 Shure SRH1840
- 12 Audeze LCD-X
- 13 Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Studio Headphones
- 14 Conclusion
- 15 FAQs
Have you ever wondered why professional audio engineers invest so much in their studio headphones? We know that choosing the right pair can make or break your mixing process. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you find the best studio headphones for your needs. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, having the right tools can elevate your mixes to new heights.
In this article, we’ll dive into the top 10 studio headphones that are making waves in the industry. We’ll cover both closed-back and open-back options, giving you a comprehensive look at what’s available. We’ll also break down the key factors to consider when choosing your perfect pair. By the end, you’ll have all the info you need to make an informed decision and take your mixing game to the next level.
Top 5 Closed-Back Studio Headphones
When it comes to professional mixing, closed-back studio headphones are essential tools. They provide excellent isolation and accurate sound reproduction, making them ideal for tracking and critical listening. We’ve carefully selected the top 5 closed-back studio headphones that have proven their worth in professional settings.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x has earned its place as a top choice for studio tracking and mixing. With its critically acclaimed sonic performance, these headphones have garnered praise from top audio engineers and pro audio reviewers alike.
What sets the ATH-M50x apart are its proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers. These drivers, featuring rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils, deliver exceptional clarity across an extended frequency range. We’re particularly impressed by the deep, accurate bass response, which is crucial for modern music production.
The circumaural design contours around the ears, providing excellent sound isolation in loud environments. This feature, combined with the 90° swiveling earcups, makes one-ear monitoring a breeze. We also appreciate the professional-grade earpad and headband material, which enhances durability and comfort during long mixing sessions.
For studio professionals always on the go, the ATH-M50x’s collapsible design offers space-saving portability. The detachable cable system, including a 1.2 m – 3.0 m coiled cable, a 3.0 m straight cable, and a 1.2 m straight cable, adds to its versatility.
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO has been a staple in the industry for years, and for good reason. At around $150, these headphones offer exceptional value. We’re impressed by their tank-like build quality, combining metal and sturdy plastic elements that can withstand the rigors of studio life.
Despite their robust construction, the DT 770 PRO is surprisingly lightweight at 270g. This contributes to their outstanding comfort, making them suitable for extended mixing sessions. The bass response is a standout feature, with fantastic sub-bass extension reaching down to 20Hz with minimal roll-off. This provides the depth and rumble essential for modern productions.
While the DT 770 PRO has a V-shaped tuning, we find that the midrange doesn’t feel subdued. Instead, it offers a natural-sounding, linear response throughout. The treble, while bright, is more tolerable than some of Beyerdynamic’s other models, striking a good balance between detail and comfort.
One of the most impressive aspects of the DT 770 PRO is its spacious soundstage, which is rare for closed-back headphones. This wide presentation rivals even some open-back models, providing a sense of space that’s invaluable for mixing.
The Sony MDR-7506 has been a common sight in studios for years, and we can see why. These headphones offer a relatively flat frequency response from 10Hz to 20kHz, making them suitable for checking mixes and evaluating imaging.
However, we have some reservations about the MDR-7506. The build quality, while durable enough to withstand studio abuse, feels somewhat cheap. The ear cups don’t completely seal around the ear, which can lead to sound leakage – a potential issue during tracking sessions.
In terms of sound, the MDR-7506 doesn’t offer the fullest or deepest reproduction. However, they do provide a clear, detailed sound that’s particularly useful for evaluating in-ear mixes and EQ-ing live sounds. We’ve found that they excel at revealing problems in mixes, acting as a sort of audio magnifying glass.
The Sennheiser HD 300 PRO offers a unique perspective in the world of studio headphones. These headphones feature a lightweight, all-plastic build that’s surprisingly durable. The oval ear pads provide good comfort, especially for those who prefer this shape over circular designs.
In terms of sound, the HD 300 PRO (2023 version) presents a bright signature with a recessed bass response. This is quite different from earlier versions, which were known for being bass-heavy. The midrange is forward and bright, which can be beneficial for picking out details in a mix. However, we find that this brightness can lead to fatigue during long sessions, especially for treble-sensitive individuals.
The soundstage on the HD 300 PRO is impressively open for a closed-back design, likely due to the prominent treble and recessed bass. While the imaging is good, we’ve found that some competitors offer better instrument separation.
The Focal Listen Professional stands out as a serious tool for serious work. These closed-back dynamic headphones offer effective isolation and a foldable design for portability – features that working engineers will appreciate.
At the heart of the Listen Professional are 40 mm Mylar/titanium drivers, designed for maximum linearity and rapid, clean transient response. The large oval earcups, surrounded by 22 mm thick memory foam, provide exceptional isolation and comfort.
In our experience, these headphones offer a neutral, uncolored sound that doesn’t flatter the audio. Instead, they present the mix as it is, warts and all. This makes them invaluable for critical listening and mix evaluation. The Listen Professional excels at revealing problems in mixes, acting like an audio magnifying glass that brings every detail closer for examination.
While they might not be the most “fun” headphones for casual listening, their accuracy and detail make them a valuable addition to any control room setup.
Top 5 Open-Back Studio Headphones
When it comes to professional mixing, open-back studio headphones offer a unique advantage. They provide a more natural and spacious soundstage, which is crucial for accurate mixing and mastering. We’ve carefully selected the top 5 open-back studio headphones that have proven their worth in professional settings.
The Sennheiser HD 600 has been a favorite among audio enthusiasts and professionals for years. We’ve found these headphones to be an excellent choice for those working with piano and orchestral tracks. Their relatively flat frequency response and wide soundstage make them ideal for critical listening applications.
We’ve been impressed by the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO, which has been winning hearts since the 1980s. These headphones boast a vibrant and natural sound that’s well-suited for various music styles. The open-back design lends a wide soundstage, giving an almost loudspeaker-like experience.
Key features:
- Distinctive highs and intense bass
- Comfortable velour ear pads for long listening sessions
- Durable construction with replaceable parts
The AKG K702 is a high-impedance, over-ear headphone designed for precision listening, mixing, and mastering. While they offer an amazing soundstage and extremely detailed midrange and treble, we’ve found that they may require some EQ adjustment for optimal performance.
The Shure SRH1840 Professional Open-Back Headphones have impressed us with their unparalleled acoustic performance. These headphones feature individually matched 40 mm neodymium drivers that deliver smooth, extended highs and accurate bass.
Notable features:
- Open-back, circumaural design for natural sound and wide stereo image
- Lightweight construction with aircraft-grade aluminum alloy yoke
- Dual-exit cables with gold-plated MMCX connectors
- Replaceable velour ear pads for exceptional comfort
The Audeze LCD-X has truly taken us by surprise with its exceptional performance. These planar-magnetic headphones are designed for professional mastering engineers and high-end listening.
What sets the LCD-X apart:
- Excellent bass response with extension down to 20Hz
- Organic and authentic-sounding midrange
- Smooth treble response that’s never fatiguing
- Top-tier detail retrieval throughout the frequency range
- Good soundstage presentation and precise imaging
While the LCD-X offers unparalleled audio quality, we must note that at 610 grams, they’re quite heavy. This weight might cause discomfort during extended listening sessions.
In conclusion, each of these open-back studio headphones offers unique strengths for professional mixing and mastering. Your choice will depend on your specific needs, budget, and comfort preferences. We recommend trying them out if possible to find the perfect fit for your studio setup.
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Studio Headphones
When selecting studio headphones, there are several crucial factors to keep in mind. We’ve compiled a list of the most important aspects to consider, ensuring you make an informed decision that elevates your music production to the next level.
Frequency Response
Frequency response is a vital indicator of headphone quality. It shows the range of tones the headphones can reproduce, from low bass frequencies (measured in Hz) to high treble (measured in kHz). A wider range generally indicates better performance. However, it’s not just about the range – the frequency response curve is equally important. We look for a flat frequency response in mixing headphones, as this accurately reproduces your music without coloration. Some cheaper headphones might boost lower frequencies, leading to bass-light mixes when used for production.
Impedance
Impedance, measured in ohms, is the electrical resistance headphones present to the amplifier. High-impedance headphones are designed for studio environments where multiple headphones might be connected to a single high-level input source. They require higher signal levels to produce the same output as low-impedance headphones. Low-impedance headphones, on the other hand, are better suited for direct connection to devices like audio interfaces or mobile phones. Generally, the higher the impedance rating, the more “pro” the headphones are considered to be.
Comfort and Durability
Comfort is crucial, especially for long mixing sessions. We’ve found that security and stability matter most to our testers when it comes to comfort. Factors like perceived weight, ear pad softness, headband softness, and clamping force all contribute to overall comfort. Durability is equally important – you want headphones that can withstand the rigors of studio life. Look for models with replaceable parts, particularly detachable cables, as these are often the first to wear out.
Sound Isolation
Sound isolation is another key factor, especially if you’ll be using your headphones for recording. Closed-back headphones are generally better for recording applications as they fully enclose the ears, reducing audio spill and blocking external noise. Open-back headphones, while often more comfortable for extended wear, are more suitable for mixing and mastering due to their wider soundstage. However, they offer less isolation and may not be ideal for noisy environments.
Price
Budget often plays a significant role in headphone selection. While it’s tempting to go for the most expensive option, it’s not always necessary. There’s usually a noticeable jump in quality every $100 or so. If you’re upgrading from basic earbuds, even a $150 pair of studio headphones can make a significant difference. However, if you’re already using mid-range headphones and want to upgrade, you might need to look at options in the $250-300+ range to notice a substantial improvement.
Remember, the best studio headphones for you will depend on your specific needs and working environment. Consider these factors carefully, and if possible, try out different models before making your final decision. Your perfect pair of studio headphones is out there – it’s just a matter of finding the right balance of features for your unique situation.
Conclusion
Choosing the right studio headphones has a significant impact on your mixing process and the overall quality of your audio productions. This guide has provided a comprehensive look at the top closed-back and open-back options available, as well as key factors to consider when making your selection. By weighing factors such as frequency response, impedance, comfort, and sound isolation, you can find the perfect pair to suit your specific needs and budget.
In the end, the best studio headphones for you will depend on your unique situation and preferences. Whether you opt for the industry-standard Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, the reliable Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO, or the high-end Audeze LCD-X, each choice offers its own strengths to enhance your mixing experience. Remember, investing in quality studio headphones is a crucial step to take your audio production skills to new heights.
FAQs
What are the top studio headphones recommended for mixing and mastering? The best studio headphones for music production and mixing in 2024 include Focal Listen Professional, Sennheiser HD-206, Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X, Røde NTH-100, Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X, Sennheiser HD 400 Pro, Sony MDR-7506, and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. These models cater to various production needs and budget ranges, offering exceptional sound quality and comfort.
Which headphones are commonly used by professional music producers? Professional music producers often use headphones such as Focal Listen Professional, Sennheiser HD 200 Pro, Audio-Technica M50X, Neumann NDH20, AKG K702, Sony MDR-MV1, and Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO. These headphones are favored for their reliability, sound fidelity, and durability, making them staples in music production.
What headphones are preferred by musicians during studio recordings? In the studio, musicians typically prefer headphones like Focal Listen Professional Studio, Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO-80, Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X, Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, Sennheiser HD 800S, AKG K371, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, and Sony MDR-7506. These models are chosen for their excellent acoustic isolation, comfort during long sessions, and accurate sound reproduction.
What headphones are favored by mix engineers for their work? Mix engineers commonly use headphones such as Audeze MM-500, Focal Clear MG Professional, Beyerdynamic DT 1990, Neumann NDH 30, Sony MDR MV1, Austrian Audio Hi-X65, Slate VSX, and Blue Mix Fi. These headphones are selected for their precision in sound staging, clarity, and the detailed response necessary for critical listening and effective mixing.
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