10 Best studio headphones for mixing 2024
Choosing the best studio headphones for mixing can be a daunting task. Beginners may find themselves puzzled by technical terminology, while seasoned mixers seek the ultimate audio precision. Selecting the perfect studio headphones hinges on your mixing style and preferences. Are you focused on capturing every subtle nuance or aiming for a rich, balanced soundstage?
Understanding your mixing preferences is equally vital – are you crafting intricate compositions or fine-tuning intricate details? Paying close attention to technical specifications is crucial if you want to enhance your music production like a pro.
We've done the groundwork for you to save you time and money. After rigorously testing 87 studio headphones with varying performance options, we've curated the top 10 studio headphones for mixing in 2024. Whether you're an aspiring producer or an experienced professional, our selection will enhance your mixing sessions with pristine audio quality and immersive sounds.
Top 5 studio headphones – shortlist
- Audio-Technica ATH M50x – best precision sound reproduction for professional mixing
- Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO – best for comfort and clarity during long studio sessions
- Sony MDR 7506 – reliable and accurate sound reproduction headphone
- Sennheiser HD 650 – best for natural and transparent sound signature for mixing
- Shure SE846 Pro – best for premium sound isolation in-ear monitoring studio recording
How to choose headphones for music production
When selecting the best studio headphones for mixing, it's crucial to understand how specific features can enhance or detract from your mixing experience. Exploring these features is vital as they directly impact the accuracy and clarity of your audio production.
Let’s examine the five key factors to consider when choosing the ideal studio headphones for recording music:
- Sound quality. The sound quality of studio headphones is paramount for accurate monitoring and mixing. High-fidelity audio reproduction ensures that subtle nuances and details in the music are faithfully represented, allowing for precise adjustments during mixing and production.
- Comfort. Comfortable headphones are essential for long mixing sessions, preventing fatigue and discomfort. Cushioned ear pads, adjustable headbands, and lightweight designs contribute to extended wear without strain, enabling producers to focus on their work for extended periods without distractions.
- Durability. Studio headphones should be built to withstand the rigors of professional use. Durable materials and construction ensure longevity and reliability, reducing the need for frequent replacements and maintenance. Reinforced cables, sturdy hinges, and robust components contribute to the overall durability of studio headphones.
- Frequency response. A wide and accurate frequency response is crucial for studio headphones, as it determines the range of frequencies that can be reproduced accurately. Flat and extended frequency response ensures that all elements of the music, from deep bass to sparkling highs, are reproduced faithfully, allowing producers to make informed decisions during mixing and mastering.
- Impedance. Impedance refers to the electrical resistance of headphones and affects how they interact with audio sources. Matching headphone impedance with audio equipment ensures optimal power transfer and sound quality. Proper impedance matching prevents distortion and ensures consistent audio performance across different devices.
10 best studio headphones for mixing – our detailed list
Choosing the best studio headphones for recording and mixing can be tricky, considering the diverse requirements of producers. However, after extensive research and testing, we've compiled a list of the 10 top options, taking into account features, comfort, durability, and other critical considerations.
1. Audio-Technica ATH M50x – best precision sound reproduction for professional mixing
| Main features: | Deep and accurate bass response, 45mm large-aperture drivers, Circumaural design contours around the ears, collapsible design |
| Material: | Aluminum, Plush Pads, Faux Leather, Memory and UPHR foam |
| Weight capacity: | 3.58 oz (0.10kg) |
| Colors: | Black, White, Orange, Ice Blue |
Audio-Technica ATH M50x is a renowned studio headphone with rich sound quality and versatility, making it a top choice for professional music production and mixing.
Sound quality. Offers accurate audio reproduction with balanced bass, clear mids, and detailed highs, allowing for precise monitoring and mixing.
Features. Detachable cables, collapsible design, and swiveling earcups for convenience and portability.
Comfort. Cushioned earpads and adjustable headbands ensure comfort during long studio sessions.
Durability. Robust construction and high-quality materials provide durability for studio use.
2. Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO – best for comfort and clarity during long studio sessions
| Main features: | High-resolution sound, replaceable ear pads for comfort, professional stage recording, adjustable soft-padded headband |
| Material: | Aluminum, Alloy Steel, Faux Leather, Memory and UPHR foam |
| Weight capacity: | 9.52 oz (0.27kg) |
| Colors: | Gray |
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO is a professional studio headphone known for its outstanding sound quality and reliability, making it a top choice for music production and mixing.
Sound quality. Offers precise bass response, detailed mids, and clear highs, ensuring accurate audio reproduction.
Features. The closed-back design for improved sound isolation, wide frequency response range for capturing nuanced details.
Comfort. Over-ear design with soft, cushioned earpads ensures comfort during extended use.
Durability. Sturdy construction and robust materials ensure long-lasting performance in studio environments.
3. Sony MDR 7506 — reliable and accurate sound reproduction studio headphone
| Main features: | Powerful detailed sound, reduction of external noises, foldable, closed ear design, and wired |
| Material: | Gold, Neodymium, Copper, foam |
| Weight capacity: | 8 oz (0.23kg) |
| Colors: | Black |
Sony MDR 7506 is a premium studio headphone used by audio professionals for its accurate sound reproduction and reliability, making it ideal for studio mixing and monitoring.
Sound quality. Provides a flat and neutral frequency response, ensuring accurate audio reproduction for precise mixing and monitoring tasks.
Features. Includes a closed-back design for excellent noise isolation and a coiled cable for added convenience in studio environments.
Comfort. Features padded earcups and an adjustable headband for extended comfort during long mixing sessions.
Durability. Built with sturdy construction and high-quality materials to withstand the rigors of professional use in studio environments.
4. Sennheiser HD 650 – best for natural and transparent sound signature
| Main features: | Excellent dynamics, premium sound output, lightweight aluminum voice coils |
| Material: | Stainless steel mesh, Aluminum, Alloy Steel, Faux Leather, Memory and UPHR foam |
| Weight capacity: | 9.1 oz (0.26kg) |
| Colors: | Black |
The Sennheiser HD 650 studio headphone is an open-back headphone, which is highly recommended for its sound quality and versatility in studio mixing applications.
Sound quality. Offers a transparent and detailed sound signature with a balanced frequency response, making it ideal for critical mixing and monitoring tasks.
Features. Features high-quality drivers and an open-back design to deliver a spacious soundstage and accurate imaging for precise audio reproduction.
Comfort. Designed with plush velour earpads and an adjustable headband for long-lasting comfort during extended studio sessions.
Durability. Constructed with high-quality materials and sturdy build quality to ensure durability and longevity in professional studio environments.
5. Shure SE846 Pro – best for premium sound isolation in-ear monitoring studio recording
| Main features: | Immersive audio, ergonomic design, sound signature filters, sound isolating design |
| Material: | Aluminum, Alloy Steel, Faux Leather, Memory and UPHR foam |
| Weight capacity: | 5.3 oz (0.15kg) |
| Colors: | Clear, Jade, Graphite |
Shure SE846 Pro studio headphone offers a premium in-ear monitor, which delivers exceptional sound quality and customizable features, making it an excellent choice for recording music.
Sound quality. Boasts four high-definition balanced armature drivers per earphone, delivering unparalleled clarity, detail, and accuracy across the entire frequency spectrum.
Features. Offers interchangeable sound signatures via customizable tuning filters, allowing users to tailor the audio experience to their preferences and mixing requirements.
Comfort. Features ergonomic, low-profile design and multiple ear tips for a secure and comfortable fit during extended mixing sessions.
Durability. Constructed with high-quality materials and reinforced cables to withstand the rigors of daily studio use.
6. Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro – ideal for critical listening and precision mixing
| Main features: | Replaceable ear pads, single-sided detachable cable, soft headband for long studio sessions |
| Material: | Titanium-coated acoustic fabric, Faux Leather, Memory and UPHR foam |
| Weight capacity: | 1.5 oz (0.043kg) |
| Colors: | Black |
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro is a flagship open-back studio headphone with unmatched sound quality and flexibility in the studio. This makes it a top choice for professional mixing and mastering tasks.
Sound quality. Offers precise and detailed audio reproduction with a wide frequency response range, ensuring accurate monitoring and sound localization for precise mixing decisions.
Features. Equipped with replaceable ear pads and cables, along with two different sets of ear pads for customizable comfort and sound signature options.
Comfort. Features a lightweight and ergonomic design with plush, velour ear pads for extended listening sessions without fatigue.
Durability. Constructed with premium materials and sturdy build quality, ensuring long-lasting reliability in professional studio environments.
7. Audeze LCD-X – best for audio accuracy and resolution for music production
| Main features: | Replaceable ear pads, single-sided detachable cable, soft headband for long studio sessions |
| Material: | Titanium-coated acoustic fabric, Faux Leather, Memory and UPHR foam |
| Weight capacity: | 1.5 oz (0.043kg) |
| Colors: | Black |
The Audeze LCD-X studio headphone is a premium open-back planar magnetic headphone designed for professional mixing and mastering applications.
Sound quality. Offers unparalleled clarity, detail, and accuracy across the entire frequency spectrum, allowing for precise monitoring and nuanced mixing decisions.
Features. Features advanced planar magnetic drivers and proprietary technologies for superior audio performance and sound reproduction.
Comfort. Ergonomically designed with plush ear pads and lightweight construction, ensuring comfortable wear during long mixing sessions.
Durability. Constructed with high-quality materials and a robust build quality, providing durability and reliability for professional studio use.
8. Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X – offers comfort during extended studio sessions
| Main features: | Detailed, powerful sound, excellent comfort, versatile application on all devices |
| Material: | Plastic, Alloy Steel, Faux Leather, Memory and UPHR foam |
| Weight capacity: | 12.3 oz (0.34kg) |
| Colors: | Black |
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO X is preferred by audio professionals for delivering accurate audio reproduction -– which is essential for critical listening during studio sessions. Its closed-back design minimizes sound leakage and provides excellent noise isolation, enhancing focus during mixing.
Sound quality. Precise and detailed sound reproduction across the frequency spectrum.
Features. Detachable cable for easy replacement and customization.
Comfort. Plush velour earpads and adjustable headband for extended comfort during long mixing sessions.
Durability. Robust construction with metal components ensures longevity and reliability in professional studio environments.
9. Sennheiser HD 820 – best for immersive sound and high-fidelity audio
| Main features: | Frequency absorber systems, luxurious comfort, wired connectivity, sealed earcup design |
| Material: | Glass-reflector plates, Alloy Steel, Faux Leather, Memory and UPHR foam |
| Weight capacity: | 12.7 oz (0.36kg) |
| Colors: | Black |
Sennheiser HD 820 stands out as one of the best studio headphones for mixing due to premium sound quality, advanced features, supreme comfort, and durability. It offers an immersive listening experience with precise audio reproduction crucial for professional mixing and mastering tasks.
Sound quality. High-resolution sound with detailed imaging and accurate frequency response.
Features. Closed-back design with glass transducer covers for minimized resonance and enhanced acoustics.
Comfort. Luxurious ear cushions and adjustable headband ensure long-lasting comfort during extended mixing sessions.
Durability. Premium materials and robust construction guarantee durability for prolonged studio use.
10. Audio Technica ATH M50xBT2 – best for wireless connectivity with studio-grade sound quality
| Main features: | Bluetooth, USB connectivity, Deep, accurate bass response, natural sound |
| Material: | Leather, Memory and UPHR foam |
| Weight capacity: | 1 lb (0.45 kg) |
| Colors: | Black |
The Audio Technica ATH M50xBT2 is a top choice for studio headphones, with built-in professional features, supreme comfort, and durability.
Sound quality. High-fidelity audio reproduction with accurate frequency response for precise mixing and monitoring.
Features. Bluetooth connectivity, touch controls, and a built-in mic for added convenience and versatility.
Comfort. Over-ear design with plush earpads and adjustable headband ensures long-lasting comfort during extended mixing sessions.
Durability. Robust build quality and premium materials ensure durability for professional studio use.
Comparison of studio headphones
To help you choose the perfect studio headphones for recording and mixing, here’s a table that compares and highlights important features of the top 3 studio headphones:
| Model | Audio-Technica ATH M50x | Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO | Sony MDR 7506 |
| Material | Aluminum, Plush Pads, Faux Leather, Memory and UPHR foam | Aluminum, Alloy Steel, Faux Leather, Memory and UPHR foam | Gold, Neodymium, Copper, foam |
| Weight capacity | 3.58 oz (0.10kg) | 9.52 oz (0.27kg) | 8 oz (0.23kg) |
| Colors | Black, White, Orange, Ice Blue | Gray | Black |
| Main features |
|
|
|
How we selected these studio headphones for mixing
We tested 87 studio headphones for mixing extensively, focusing on selecting the best ones based on the specific criteria below. Although we may earn commissions from Amazon sales, our priority is ensuring the highest quality and performance for our audience. Let’s briefly discuss the criteria:
- Sound quality. We prioritized headphones with clear, accurate sound reproduction across the frequency spectrum, ensuring precise audio monitoring for mixing tasks.
- Comfort. Comfortable headphones are essential for long mixing sessions, so we chose models with plush ear cushions and adjustable headbands for extended wear.
- Durability. Headphones with robust construction and high-quality materials were favored to withstand frequent use in professional studio environments.
- Frequency response. We focused on headphones with a wide frequency response range to capture every nuance of the audio, from deep bass to crisp highs.
- Impedance. Lower-impedance headphones were preferred for compatibility with a wide range of audio devices without sacrificing sound quality.
- Additional Features. We considered extra features such as detachable cables, swiveling ear cups, and foldable designs for added convenience and versatility in various studio setups.
Also read:
Best open-back headphones: Discover the superb audio quality and comfort with these open-back headphones
Best headphones for iPhone: Find the best matching headset for your iOS device
Can you mix with studio headphones?
Recording and mixing with studio headphones is a common practice among audio professionals. These headphones offer accurate sound reproduction and detailed frequency response, allowing for precise audio monitoring and fine-tuning of mixes.
However, it's essential to choose high-quality studio headphones specifically designed for mixing tasks to ensure accurate sound representation. Additionally, it's recommended to periodically reference mixes on different playback systems, such as studio monitors or car speakers, to ensure they translate well across various listening environments.
Do headphones matter for mixing?
Headphones play a crucial role in mixing (and general music production) as they directly affect how accurately you perceive and adjust audio elements.
High-quality studio headphones with accurate sound reproduction and frequency response ensure that you can make precise adjustments to your mix, resulting in a more polished and professional sound. There’s a caveat here: using low-quality headphones may lead to inaccuracies in your mix, as they may not provide an accurate representation of the audio.
Therefore, selecting the right headphones tailored to your mixing needs is essential for achieving optimal results in your audio production endeavors.
FAQs
What headphones do pro studios use?
Pro studios often use high-end studio headphones like the Sennheiser HD 800 S or Audeze LCD-X. These headphones offer exceptional sound quality and accuracy, crucial for professional audio production.
Are open-back headphones better for mixing?
Open-back headphones are preferred by many engineers for mixing due to their spacious soundstage and natural sound reproduction. They provide a more accurate representation of the audio, making it easier to identify subtle details and nuances in the mix.
Is it better to mix on studio monitors or headphones?
Both studio monitors and headphones have their advantages and are commonly used for mixing. Studio monitors excel in providing a more natural and immersive listening experience, allowing engineers to feel the sound in the room. However, headphones offer precise stereo imaging and isolation, making them ideal for detailed editing and mixing in environments where acoustic treatment is limited.
Your email address will not be published. Required fields are markedmarked