There are many headphones on the market to pick from, but many of them, sadly, trade function for style. This is why many users choose studio headphones to regular headphones because they do not prioritise form above function.
While they are mostly used for music production, gamers and streamers have begun to use them due to their high quality. When it comes to picking the perfect pair for you, though, there are numerous aspects to consider.
As a result, the hunt for the best studio headphones for each user has begun. We’ll look at the best studio headphones on the market and what makes them stand out from the crowd in this guide.
What are Studio Headphones?
The music industry is where studio headphones are most commonly seen. They are necessary in music production since they assist in the creation, recording, mixing, and mastering of music.
Studio headphones, on the other hand, are no longer exclusively for musicians; many other vocations and hobbies, such as streaming and gaming, have begun to use them as well.
Due to their flat frequency response, which does not boost the bass or treble, the best studio headphones usually provide users with audio that is clearer and richer. Although they are not the greatest headphones for enjoyment, they are a decent choice if you want the clearest sound possible.
Over-ear headphones are the most common studio headphones because they deliver the best sound quality when compared to in-ear headphones. The best studio headphones in the music industry are those that can be used for mixing and mastering songs.
However, it is dependent on the individual and their requirements. Choosing the best studio headphones, on the other hand, may be subjective, especially now that these headphones are utilised by other pros. As a result, we’ve compiled a list of 13 of the greatest studio headphones available today.
1. Sony MDR-7506 Studio Headphones
The Sony MDR-7506 Studio Headphones are at the top of this list of the best studio headphones. Even after three decades, it remains one of the greatest studio headphones available. When it comes to quality and functionality, the Sony MDR series never disappoints.
It brings headphones that are great for practically any purpose — not just studio use — by combining value, function, and comfort. Even when worn for lengthy periods of time, the headphones are comfortable to wear. It’s made to offer clear sound with a few moderate boosts here and there.
Even so, it manages to produce clean sound, which is useful for music producers looking for problems in a recording. Similarly, it produces music that is sufficiently immersive for various types of users to appreciate. The Sony MDR-7506 Studio Headphones are an excellent choice for anyone searching for a pair of headphones that can handle any situation.
PROS
- Comfortable for extended use
- Clear and great-sounding
- Functional
CONS
- Heavy cable
- No ANC and noise isolation
2. Audio-Technica ATH-R70x
The Audio-Technica ATH-R70x is a popular recording microphone because of its affordability, durability, and sound quality. Long recording and mixing sessions are the most popular use for this pair of headphones. The sound quality and reproduction are accurate and well-balanced, with only a minor amount of excess bass.
Regardless, you won’t have to worry about audio nuances because the bass has no effect on it. There is no distortion in the mid-range or treble. Because of its sound balance and immersive qualities, it’s also ideal for audiophiles and gamers.
If you’re searching for a pair of studio headphones that have a well-balanced sound and can be worn for long periods of time, the Audio-Technica ATH-R70x is a wonderful option to consider.
The major disadvantage of these headphones is that they don’t feature active noise cancellation, so they’re not ideal if you want complete noise cancellation. Regardless, it only leaks sound when the volume is turned up high, so you might not want to use it in a noisy area.
PROS
- Great sound quality
- Good design
- Comfortable for extended use
CONS
- They don’t cancel out noise
- Earpads can become uncomfortable in hot environments
3. Sennheiser HD-206 Studio Headphones
The Sennheiser HD-206 Studio Headphones are your best bet if you’re searching for a pair of studio headphones that’s slightly less expensive than the others on the list. Despite their low price, you may rest assured that the brand from which they come will not let you down.
Sennheiser is a well-known brand that manufactures high-quality headphones, so you can rest assured that you’re receiving the best headphones for the money. Furthermore, the HD-206 boasts outstanding audio quality that readily compares to studio headphones with a higher price tag.
Sennheiser’s HD-206 Studio Headphones have a well-balanced sound with plenty of detail in the mids and highs. Furthermore, you may use them outside of the studio because they efficiently filter out noise.
You are getting your money’s worth with this pair of headphones. Sennheiser has unfortunately discontinued this model, however it is still available for purchase through the brand’s Amazon store.
PROS
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Balanced Response
CONS
- Long Cord
4. KRK KNS8400 Studio Headphones
KRK is known for its monitor speakers, but not so much for their studio headphones.
That isn’t to say they don’t provide when it comes to sound quality, though. It’s as if you’re wearing the KRK studio monitors on your head with these headphones. They provide a similar experience to studio monitors, but in a more compact package.
It also boasts good noise isolation, making it a fantastic companion for audiophiles and musicians. The KRK KNS8400 Studio Headphones are known for their comfort as well as their sound quality. It’s comprised of a lightweight, impact-resistant plastic.
Furthermore, the earpads are composed of memory foam, making them extremely comfy. If you’re searching for a pair of headphones that give both exceptional sound quality and comfort, this is a terrific option.
PROS
- Accurate stereo imaging
- Great bass response
- Inline volume control
- Comfortable and lightweight
CONS
- Unusual sound signatures
5. AKG K240 Studio Headphones
The AKG K240 Studio is no exception. AKG studio headphones are a standard in music production. For recording, editing, mixing, and mastering, these headphones are ideal.
Furthermore, these headphones include a self-adjusting headband and a semi-open design, making them ideal for music and other uses.
Earpads that totally surround the ears are also included with the headphones. While it has a closed-back design, it provides a more transparent sound than most headphones of its type. The bass on the AKG K240 Studio is robust, with balanced mids and crisp highs.
Its audio quality will not let you down. The headphones do, however, exhibit a minor increase in sound leakage when used at maximum volume. Nonetheless, you’ll obtain a dependable and functional option for the studio.
PROS
- Classic headphones
- Balanced audio
- Great design
CONS
- Prone to sound leakage
6. Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX
The Drop and the HIFIMAN HE4XX are excellent gaming headphones. They’re magnetic planar headphones, and they’re often regarded as the greatest in the world. The headphones have a well-balanced sound that is both immersive and comfortable to use for long periods of time while gaming.
The Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX headphones may look to be inferior to standard headphones, but they are among the best studio headphones for gaming. It features a large sound stage that will completely immerse the player in the game.
The disadvantage is that it is not suitable for long-term usage and lacks the ANC technology found in gaming headphones. If you prefer a headset with features dedicated specifically to gaming, you might want to check out our guide to the best gaming headsets.
PROS
- Excellent sound quality
- Immersive
CONS
- Not recommended for prolonged use
- Open-backed
- No ANC
7. Sennheiser HD 25
The Sennheiser HD 25 is up next. Those that spend a lot of time in the studio will love these headphones. They can resist tremendous sound pressure and deliver excellent sound quality. It also produces precise sound that is both light and powerful.
The Sennheiser HD 25 is designed for professional use, but anyone interested in music creation or DJing can benefit from these headphones. Just keep in mind that the earpads aren’t the most comfortable, so they might not be the ideal choice for long-term use.
PROS
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Robust
- Pro’s Choice
CONS
- Uncomfortable earpads
- Not great for extended use
8. Pioneer HRM-7 Studio Headphones
For mixing, the Pioneer HRM-7 headphones are ideal. It can not only accurately detect bass, but it can also assist users in identifying the low-mid and mid-range throughout the mixing process.
Because a single error in mixing and mastering can have a significant impact on the final result, this is a critical step. These headphones correctly display the range, allowing you to carefully monitor the sound.
However, if you want to use them while recording in the booth, this may not be the greatest solution. Instead, you might want to look at the Sennheiser HD 25. The Pioneer HRM-7 studio headphones, nevertheless, are the greatest studio headphones for mixing.
PROS
- Dynamic range
- Comfortable and Lightweight
CONS
- Not recommended for booth use
9. Nuraphone by Nura Headphones
The Nuraphone may be the ideal solution for individuals who wish to utilise their headphones for streaming. These headphones are one-of-a-kind in that they create a personalised profile for the user. It creates a personalised experience based on the user’s hearing and creation preferences.
The headphones provide a completely immersive experience. It produces a clean, detailed sound with plenty of depth. These headphones are ideal for listening to music while streaming to enhance the experience.
Nura Headphones’ Nuraphone is also ideal for sound mixing and editing. These headphones aren’t designed for professional use, but they’re a terrific alternative to the more traditional professional headphones.
PROS
- Customizes hearing profiles
- Immersive sound
- User-friendly
CONS
- High reliance on its accompanying app
10. Sennheiser HD280 PRO
Sennheiser’s HD280 Pro is another product. This is one of the most popular headphones among studio owners and audiophiles alike. These headphones produce a well-balanced sound with crisp, realistic bass. For individuals who enjoy listening to music, this is ideal.
Furthermore, they provide excellent sound isolation, making the listening experience more immersive and superior to that of standard headphones. With its rotatable earcups, the HD280 PRO is also comfortable and functional.
The only drawback to these headphones is that they may not be the most attractive in terms of design. Regardless, the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro are a comfy pair of headphones with excellent sound quality.
PROS
- Superb sound isolation
- Replaceable parts
CONS
- Dated design