Ryan Harrell

ASMR or Autonomous sensory meridian response is a fantastic experience. But to fully enjoy it, you need headphones that amplify and accentuate the right sounds. Which is why we put together this guide to the best headphones for ASMR for every budget and need. We’ll look at the best open back, closed back, wireless, and sleeping-friendly headphones – perfect to get the best ASMR possible.

If you’re reading this, you likely already know what ASMR is.

But if you don’t, ASMR describes the tingly sensation you feel in your spine. This can be triggered by any number of things – including touch – but one of the easiest ways to experience it is through sound.

There’s an entire genre of video and audio content online for ASMR. This usually features people talking or making sounds that can trigger the ASMR response.

And with most things sound-related, you need the right headphones to fully appreciate the experience.

Good ASMR headphones have excellent sound quality. But headphones that offer some creature comforts – such as being able to sleep while wearing them (since ASMR is a relaxation tool) – are highly recommended as well.

In this guide, we’ve considered the entire gamut of options and selected the 7 best headphones ASMR. This includes both open-back and closed-back headphones, along with headphones for sleeping, wireless headphones, and earplugs.

Let’s dive in!

The Best Headphones for ASMR in 2020

You can get practically any good headphones (here’s a great entry-level list) and use them for ASMR, but some will deliver better performance than others.

Below, we’ve compiled our top choices for every need – sleeping, sound quality, wireless choices, and more.

These headphones from Sennheiser are just incredible. Sennheiser is a hugely popular manufacturer of headphones and audio equipment. The company has a track record of producing some of the best headphones on the market, catering to both the high-end and mid-range market. This is a mid-range option that delivers a performance worthy of more expensive models.

Design-wise, it doesn’t drastically change from the normal under-stated but classy design Sennheiser is known for. However, it does come with something special. In terms of appearance, it is similar to older models. It comes nearly identical but for the logo that lies on the body of the product. To produce reach, comforting sounds, this model uses the Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement technology.

This design ensures that sound is directed primarily to the ear. It feels very comfortable to wear. I love the curve of the shells. This curve is coupled with soft pads that enclose the ear. As long as you choose the correct earband for the ear, you can rest assured of comfort throughout the period that you wear these headphones.

It features a 3 meter cable that is long enough to reach your devices. To my pleasure, this cable can be detached. With the open-back design, you can be sure that you will enjoy listening to music in a stationary position.

What I don’t like:

It seems like Sennheiser doesn’t make bad headphones. This is a really solid option. The only flaw I found here isn’t a matter of performance, rather one of design. I did not particularly like the silver inserts. If you have to get this, get it in the cream and brown variant.

Also keep in mind that these are open back, so sound will leak out. If you don’t want people around you to hear or value your privacy, these aren’t the right headphones for you.

Best Closed-Back Headphones: Beyerdynamic DT 770 M

While the Sennheiser HD 599 takes the cake as the best open-back design headphones, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 M is the best closed back option that we have chosen.

This unit is one of the most durable options that we have reviewed. It is so well built that you can take it with you almost everywhere you go. Whether in the studio or subway or on tour, you can trust this hardy pair of headphones to take a beating and still deliver excellent performance. To ensure that these headphones last for as long as possible, plenty of metal is used in the band and ear cup forks. The ear cups themselves come fitted with a layer of durable plastic. As for the cable, it is covered in rubber and plastic.

Aside from the durability, I love these headphones because of the comfort. For someone who loves listening to music as they work, these bad boys come in pretty handy. The closed-back design is cool and will be comfortable even for folks that wear glasses. I wore these headphones for several hours on end without feeling particularly uncomfortable.

Like most cabled headphone on the market, this product comes with a 3.5mm jack. Therefore, it is compatible with a large number of devices. In cases where you can’t use the 3.5 mm jack, there is a ¼” adapter threading available.

Sound quality is the most important thing in a pair of headphones. While many have complained about shoddy sound quality, I have discovered that you have to pair these headphones with the proper type of device to get the best sound from it.

What I don’t like

The 80 ohms resistance is cool. However, this means that you will not get the best sound quality from your phone. If you opt to use the headphones with your phone, you will need to get an amp. Furthermore, the long cable might very well get in the way when you are using it with a smartphone.

Best In-Ear Earphones for ASMR: Shure SE215-CL

Up next are these in-ear headphones from Shure. These excellent mid-range earphones deliver wonderful performance at a bargain and are our best in-ear headphones for ASMR. Shure is popular for the high quality nature of its products, especially headphones.

These headphones come with several design features in order to fit more hardware that improves your sound experience. Unlike typical earbuds, these earphones offer better noise isolation than most other options on the market.

The earphones are made from high quality materials that are sure to last for a long time despite heavy use. You can choose from three different colors.

It comes with modules that are made like the large cavity just outside the ear canal. Therefore, they rest in the outer ear comfortably. It features an acoustic seal that serves to prevent noise from getting in.

It comes with detachable cables, which make it easier to repair in cases of damage. Even if you choose to use the cable, the over-the-ear design will keep them out of your way. The earphones feel rather hefty, but this is offset by the shape and design. Hence, they do not slip out of the ear as you wear them.

While the design might not be especially appealing, the performance is what really matters. The excellent audio performance that these earphones pump out rivals even the performance from more expensive options on the market.

Whether for monitoring or for listening, you can rest assured that this product will give you the rich sound experience that you crave.

What I don’t like

I particularly disliked that there are no in-line controls. It also takes some time to master how to wear the earphones.

Best Wireless Headphones: Sony WHXB700/B

Coming in at the mid-range level, these pair of headphones from Sony seeks to rival budget offerings from other brands on the market. From my testing, they do a really great job, and the WHXB700 is one of the best Bluetooth options on the market right now.

I love the fit and overall design of these headphones. It comes with an on-ear fit which is great. If you have sensitive ears, you might want a pair of headphones with slightly bigger cups. Nevertheless, I observed that it feels great without being too tight. The sound isolation is not exactly out-of-the-world, but it delivers some noise reduction. The cushions feel really comfortable, and the top of your head does not feel pain since it also comes with padding.

Performance-wise, it comes with impressive features. For instance, you can use it for up to 30 hours before charging it. With just 10 minutes of charging, you will get up to 90 minutes of use. The design of the unit comes with controls that let you skip, pause, play, answer calls, and even activate your device’s virtual assistant. There is so much you can do with this option.

You can receive calls on this pair of headphones as well. If your unit runs out of juice, you can always connect a cable and continue using it.

Sound performance is great. The lows are quite impressive, although the mids are mostly overwhelmed by the low frequency.

What I don’t like

While it touts itself as a noise cancellation headphone, I found the noise isolation to be somewhat disappointing. Furthermore, it isn’t the most durable on the market.

Best Noise Cancelling Headphones: Bose QuietComfort 35 (Series II)

These headphones are great whether you are working, sleeping, meditating, or just relaxing. This unit is from one of the most popular brands on the market right now. From my testing, it is the best noise cancelling headphone you can buy right now.

It lies at the top of the line of the products from Bose and offers you wireless use and incredible noise cancellation. While many sub-par products suffer from poor Bluetooth quality, you will not have such an issue with these headphones.

The headphones offer impressive sound and are one of the few options that offer nearly seamless integration with virtual assistants like Google’s Virtual Assistant.

Build quality is great. This model retains the slim profile of older models and feels so comfortable on the ear. They are also built to last. You can put them in a bag or your luggage, have them twisted and bent without any lasting harm.

Battery life is great, as well. Although it doesn’t boast of 30 hours of runtime like some options on this roundup, the 20 hours are enough for me.

The USP of these headphones is the noise cancellation property. Sound quality is above average, although I have used some better sounding rivals on the market.

What I don’t like

For the price and brand, I expected it to sound better than it did.

Best for Sleeping: Homder Sleep Headphone

Sometimes, you want to wear your headphones to sleep while listening to ASMR.

If that describes you, then look no further than these headphones. They come with Bluetooth capability. This, coupled with the eye mask feature, makes it so great to sleep in.

The material of the mask is partly made from soft cotton and another layer of polyester. To hold it tight as you sleep, there is a reliable Velcro strap at the back. Thus, as you toss and turn on your bed, you will not have the problem of having your headphone/mask slipping off. You might feel that sleeping with this product will be like sleeping with your headphones on. While that is true to some extent, it goes beyond such a comparison. Sleeping with your headphones on will often leave you feeling pains on your ear and around the head. Not so with this unit. The padding extends all around the headphones and will have you feeling refreshed when you wake up in the morning.

Design-wise, it isn’t as stylish as some others on the market. However, when you compare it with other headphones at this price, it is downright appealing.

Performance is where these lovely headphones shine. It comes with some noise cancellation properties, so you can sleep even more soundly. The battery of these headphones is rechargeable. It has a relatively fast charge tie of 2.5 hours, with each full charge giving you up to 8 hours of runtime; sufficient to last a whole night’s sleep.

With this pair of headphones, you will not have cables tangled in your hair as you sleep. The built-in speakers and microphone come with Bluetooth connectivity.

What I don’t like

Well, I observed that it feels a bit bulky. Furthermore, while the 8 hour runtime sounds great, it turns out to be a let-down because you will have to charge the headphones every single day. There are also a ton of similar brands – they’re all essentially the same Chinese make with different branding. Pick whatever catches your fancy; we found there to be no substantial difference in performance.

Best Earplugs for ASMR: MAXROCK Sleep Earplugs

When you hear “in-buds” earplugs, comfort is likely the last attribute that comes to mind. Couple that with ’in-bud earplugs for sleep”, and you might grow apoplectic with doubt. No wonder then that most folks rather opt for over-ear earplugs when they want to sleep. Nevertheless, there are some folks that find in-ear head plugs quite comfortable and even prefer them over over-ear head plugs.

The Maxrock Sleep Earplugs are designed as noise isolating plugs that will help anyone looking to sleep soundly, free from external sounds. These plugs feature a silicones design which makes them really comfortable in the ears. Due to their softness, some have wondered if they will be good enough to isolate noise. Well, I have tested it, and I can say that it does an excellent job.

These earplugs are very small. In fact, you might be worried that they will fall into the ear as you sleep. However, this is merely optical. There are no reports of these slipping into anyone’s ears. Due to their really small size, it isn’t surprising that they are so lightweight. These plugs fit into the ear canal and prevent any noise from entering.

Side sleepers find it hard to choose earplugs, but many have opted to use this product; with astonishing testimonies. As they are soft and small, you will not wake up with your ears feeling bruised in the morning.

These earplugs also come with Bluetooth connectivity. Therefore, you can wear them and listen to soothing music as you sleep. Sound quality is decent but not exceptional. They are not as loud as you might like. Therefore, if you are thinking of using these on your daily commute to work, you might want to look for other options on the market.

Overall, they are great for sleeping but not for anything else.

What I don’t like

The sound quality is middling at best.

Over to You

When you're looking to buy the best headphones for ASMR, finding the right pick isn't always easy. AMSR demands a good mix between sound quality, comfort, and noise isolation to be truly enjoyable.

Hopefully, this article would have helped you find the right headphones for your needs.

For more recommendations and advice, don't hesitate to reach out to me here.

Also read:

• Our favorite cheap earbuds - all $50 and under!
• Our guide to the best studio headphones

References:

• Sennheiser (official website)
• Bose Headphones (Official website)
• Beyerdynamic (Official website)
• Sony Audio (Official website)

Want to find the best DJ headphones under $100 you can buy right now? Read on to find our best picks for DJs on a budget.

DJing is an expensive hobby (or profession – if you’re getting paid for it).

DJ controllers are expensive enough, but when you throw in the cost of everything else – mixers, software licenses, sounds, etc. – you can be several hundred dollars in the red before you’ve made one half-decent mix.

Which is why I’m a big fan of cutting corners where you can. Headphones is one area where I feel you can get fantastic value for under $100. While nothing will beat a $400 pair of Pioneer headphones, you can get a lot of mileage from entry-level gear that will cost you less than dinner for two.

So in this guide, I dug deep to find the best DJ headphones under $100.

Here are my six top picks:

The 6 Best DJ Headphones Under $100

For beginners and budget-focused DJs, here are my picks for the best headphones you can buy currently:

The PIONEER HDJ-X5-K might not be the flagship pair of headphones from Pioneer, but it comes with plenty of useful features that have us excited. In this review, we will discuss some of the best features of this remarkable pair of cans that make it the best overall DJ headphones for under 100 dollars.

The box contains a 1.2m cable, 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter, a carrying pouch, and a mini-jack. Thus, you have all of the things that you need to enjoy using the headphones. The design is impressive despite the low price. It is built out of thick plastic and has the extenders backed up by a metal strip. The result is that you have a pair of headphones that are lightweight yet durable.

The headband’s underside has been fitted with a thick cushion that will cradle your head without feeling cramped or inconvenient. It hugs tightly on your head and doesn’t feel tight. The earcups are also made with durable materials to ensure that they last for a long time. While they are also made from plastic, we noticed that they still feel very durable and are of high quality. They are not fixed in place and can swivel around the yoke.

The sound performance is impressive and definitely makes the PIONEER HDJ-X5-K sound better than its price. It has a 40 Hz boost that makes your music sound thick and punchy. Due to the sound quality, you’ll have a marvelous time listening to different genres with pleasure. The high frequencies here sound marvelous for a pair of headphones available for less than 100 dollars.

It is a solid pair of headphones that perform with different sounds. They felt comfortable on my ears, although I started to feel a bit uncomfortable after wearing them for extended periods. For the sub-100 price, these are totally worth the cost and will definitely serve you very well.

What I don’t like:

Although this is a great overall pair of headphones, it comes with certain disadvantages. For one, while the lows sound great, the mid frequencies are rather hollow. Thus, listening to midrange to heavy acoustic instruments is a bore.

Most Reliable: Sony MDR7506

The second model on our roundup is the most reliable model you can buy for under 100 dollars. It comes with a sturdy design and impressive performance to boot. The closed-back design of the Sony MDR7506 means that people around you cannot hear whatever you are listening to while ensuring that you get the best sounds. Due to the design, it is great for any DJ on the go and who needs to keep a low amount of load when traveling for gigs. Let’s review these features in more detail.

First, Sony MDR7506 comes with a sound impedance of 63 Ohms. What this means is that you have a pair of cans that will serve you well in the club or studio. The technical details might bore you, but be rest assured that for the price, you’ll likely never find another pair of headphones as reliable as this model. It also sports large 40 mm drivers and neodymium magnets that let your sound come out clear, expansive, and crisp.

Another notable feature that I observed is that the mid-range frequency is impressive. You will have a great time listening to EDM, pop, hip-hop, and other genres commonly played by DJs.

There are several instances where it is vital that you have a pair of headphones. One such time is when traveling, and you want a moment of peace. The Sony MDR7506 is great for this use because they are noise-canceling headphones. While the noise cancellation isn’t as dope as what you’d find on far more expensive models, it is still quite impressive. Another reason why the noise cancellation technology is vital is for DJing and production. The Sony MDR7506 is the industry standard and will give you overall reliable performance.

In terms of design, there’s plenty to like about these headphones; however, there are also some things that need to be worked on. The good side is that they are built, lightweight. You can, therefore, carry them around without much fuss. The cable is non-detachable, which is somewhat of a bummer. However, the good thing is that it is very thick and thus durable.

What I don’t like

First, the headphones are completely made of plastic. While this results in a lightweight model, it means that these aren’t very durable. Sound-wise, I observed that the treble range is somewhat disappointing.

Best In-Ear Headphones: Shure SE215-CL

Who says you can only DJ with headphones? In-ear headphones can perform perfectly well, especially while mixing or practicing.

If you are looking for the best in-ear earphones, then you can do no better than the Shure SE215-CL. These are excellent earphones that give you impressive sound for less than 100 dollars.

Shure is a relatively popular manufacturer of headphones and audio equipment, and these are some of the best options from the company.

First, let’s consider the design features. Shure has made the Shure SE215-CL be a pair of highly comfortable earphones. While other models come with earbuds that do not slip well into the ear, these will slip into your ear properly and will not come off even when you move your head aggressively. Apart from the ability to remain in your ears better, these also offer some of the best noise-isolation compared with other models at this price.

The earbuds feature modules that are designed like the ear. Therefore, they remain in your ear and will still be comfortable even after wearing them for extended periods. The over the ear design will keep them out of the way of your playing.

The Shure SE215-CL are Bluetooth or wireless options; therefore, they come with detachable cables. Since these cables are detachable, it is possible for you to change the cable in case of any damage. Additionally, you can play without fearing damage to your earphones.

Overall, the design is one of the best that you’ll find at this price. While the design is great, what is truly astounding about these earphones is the performance. The mids, highs, and lows sound impressive. The excellent performance is even better than some of those found on more expensive models. The clear bass and treble are delicious to hear.

What I don’t like

While these sound rather great and are durably constructed, there are no in-line controls. This impacts functionality. Additionally, while these end up being comfortable, it might take some time for your ear to get used to wearing them.

Best Budget DJ Headphones: Hercules HDP DJ-M40

The Hercules HDP DJ-M40 is one of the most affordable models on this roundup. It comes at a very affordable price. Although it doesn’t sport state of the art technology or bells and whistles, it is majorly effective at what it does. The built-in drivers offer good performance that will help you to enjoy your DJing.

The design covers the ear, thus offering more than decent soundproofing. It is, therefore, a very good option if you are working at a club or party. The Hercules HDP DJ-M40 is made to help you monitor sounds over a wide frequency range. The build is solid, although it isn’t premium. It is made of relatively durable materials that will certainly last and take rough handling without breaking. If you are usually on the go, you’ll likely appreciate the ability to fold it into a compact form for storage and transportation.

The large ear pads will shield you from any ambient noise, and the closed-back design prevents any sound bleeding. With bandwidth that covers all of the frequencies audible to the human ear, you’ll certainly have a good time listening to music or monitoring using these headphones.

In addition, the 60 Ohm drivers are just at the low level of impedance that will give a powerful output volume as you DJ on your rig. It is compatible with different devices, including computers, phones, and other audio players.

The pair of axes for rotation allows you to easily continue your one-ear monitoring, which is essential to a successful time as a DJ. The extendable arms on the headphones can be adjusted to ensure that it suits different head sizes.

What I don’t like

This is an overall excellent model; however, I observed that it isn’t as durable as I’d have liked. The sound quality is alright, but there isn’t any definition in the low range.

Most Versatile DJ Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x comes from the Audi-Technica brand, which is the favorite headphone manufacturer for many DJs. There are so many high grade, impressive models in the brand catalog. Some of these range into hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x is the budget model from the brand. As such, it costs very little. However, do not be fooled by the low price. It is an entry-level model that beats more expensive units due to the build and performance.

First of all, the build quality is amazing for this price. It weighs just 190 without the cable attached. This lightweight build is due to the fact that most of the unit is made of plastic. The headband adjustment rails are made of metal, though.

This headband is excellent and feels great on the head. The ear pads are equally impressive and give you almost the same level of comfort as what you’d find in expensive units. Even though the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x relies mostly on plastic, it is still very durable.

Sound performance is one of the most important considerations when choosing a pair of headphones, and we are pleasantly surprised by the results of these budget headphones. These are among the top-rated closed-back headphones when considering the neutral frequency response, and it costs a fraction of the price.

Channel balance is another reason why these are awesome headphones. They blow the rest of the competition out of the water in this regard.

Overall, when you consider the price of the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x, you’ll certainly love to own a pair.

What I don’t like

Audio-Technica ATH-M20x has some flaws, which is certainly expected, considering that it is a budget model. First, while they are largely comfortable, you will need to take a break from wearing them after about an hour of wearing. The cable that connects the left and right ear cups exposes some of the cable, which makes it susceptible to damage.

Best Entry Level DJ Headphones: OneOdio Pro-10

OneOdio or OneAudio isn’t a hugely popular brand; however, it has slowly started gaining positive attention because of the performance of some of its headphones, especially the entry-level model, the OneOdio Pro-10 DJ Headphones. Now, these budget headphones are the cheapest on this list, but they still manage to feel quite comfortable on the ears. They are also relatively durable and give decent sound quality.

First, the design is interesting. Although it isn’t the most intuitive of designs, it still feels easy to use. The OneOdio Pro-10 DJ Headphones comes with a foldable design; thus, if you are a DJ frequently on the move, you’ll easily store these and transport them as well. In addition to the foldable design, the OneOdio Pro-10 DJ Headphones has easier cups that rotate in the left and right directions. Therefore, you can enjoy superb single-ear monitoring.

As pointed out above, they come with a closed-back design. During use, I found these to be very comfortable. The padding is sufficient, and the faux leather feels soft over the ears. Overall, I found them easy to wear more than similarly priced units on the market.

Right out of the box, it is clear that these are not premium headphones. They look the price, but that doesn’t mean that it looks tacky. It still manages to look stylish and elegant. While it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, we liked it.

In terms of features, these are a solid pair of headphones. It comes with a 50mm neodymium driver and a nice frequency response. The 32Ohms impedance is relatively low, but that is to be expected at this price. One of my favorite features of these headphones is that there is a pair of detachable cables. These can stretch up to three meters.

They give you a classic look with the red plastic accents in the black body. They are also made of good quality drivers and large earcups.

Performance-wise, you’ll find it difficult to find a pair of headphones at this price that gives this much quality sound. Although it isn’t premium-sounding, it is more than decent for the cost. I observed that the bass is hefty and powerful without overwhelming the mids and trebles. Since they come with a closed-back design, they are convenient to use in noisy environments.

Ultimately, the OneOdio Pro-10 DJ Headphones doesn’t come with the bells and whistles of expensive models, but we certainly enjoyed using them for a bit.

What I don’t like

First, the ear cups are round instead of oval. This can have an impact on your comfort. Other things like the less impressive sound should be expected for a pair of headphones under 30 dollars.

Over to You

As a DJ, your top priorities are a little different than music producers, film editors, and casual listeners. You want balance, loudness, and DJ-friendly single ear operation. Hopefully, this list will help you zero-in on the best DJ headphones under $100 you can find on the market right now.

For more recommendations and advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to me here.

Also Read:

• Our favorite studio headphones across budgets and use cases
• If you’re on a budget, refer to our list of the best studio headphones under $100

References:

• Audio Technica (Official website)
• Pioneer DJ (Official website)
• Hercules DJ (Official website)
• OneOdio Audio (Official website)
• AKG Audio (Official website)
• Sennheiser Audio (Official website)

Get hands on control over your monitor with our pick of the best monitor controllers in the market.

Your audio interface plugs into your computer. Your monitors plug into your audio interface. And that’s all there is to producing.

But there’s a problem.

What if your audio interface doesn’t have a dedicated volume control? Or if it does, what if it’s out of reach, mounted on a rack right at the back of your studio? Are you destined to using cumbersome keyboard shortcuts to control your studio monitors?

Not if you have a good monitor controller on your desk.

Monitor controllers do exactly what you think they would do: give you control over your studio monitors. In their most basic form, you get a big knob to control volume/gain. More advanced controllers will give you the option to control multiple input options (such as a mic hooked up in a vocal booth) along with features such as talkback.

A simple monitor controller is great if your audio interface doesn’t give you direct control over your studio monitors. For studios, a full-featured monitor controller is an essential. You want to be able to control I/O and talk to your artists as they’re in the recording booth. Monitor controllers make it happen.

But what’s the best studio monitor controller for your needs? And what should you consider when buying one?

I’ll share some answers in this detailed guide to the best studio monitor controllers in 2020.

The 6 Best Monitor Controllers

Here are my picks for the best monitor controllers for different budgets and needs:

Desktop monitor controllers seem to be the product of the moment right now. This is in part due to the success of the Crimson series from SPL and the increasing trend towards multiple functions in the smallest of spaces. The combination of the controller and audio interface can no longer be stopped in the home studio area. Aware of this, Mackie smelled a fuse and positioned itself in time with a new edition of this Big Knob series.

The Mackie Big Knob Studio functions as a combination of controller and interface. Great still, the combination does not necessarily have to be used in parallel. The product can also only be used as a controller for analog signal routing. A total of three stereo signals can be routed to two monitor paths plus a stereo track, which can be switched between -10 dB and + 4 dB.

The Mackie Big Knob Studio can also take over the interface to the computer via a USB output. It also has two headphone outputs, which in turn have a talkback microphone connection.
In addition to the two headphone outputs, which can be supplied with the USB signal and inputs 1-4, there is a mini-jack on the front of the housing. This is under the designation Stereo In 3/4. You can use it to access devices quickly.

In addition to the on/off switch and the screwable input socket of the supplied power supply unit (+ 18V / 1.5 A), all other inputs and outputs have been placed on the rear of the housing. With the exception of the two lockable combination sockets from Neutrik, there are TRS sockets that can be used either symmetrically or asymmetrically. In addition to the outputs, inputs 3/4 are also available here, optionally with -10 dB and +4dB input sensitivity.

Once again, Mackie offers us a very solid construction. The device, made in China, has a solid steel housing and four non-slip rubber feet, which even stick to a glass plate as if glued. You have a very pleasant control feel, which offers exactly the right rotational resistance between limp and clumsy.

Due to the massive steel housing, the weight of the Mackie Big Knob Studio screws up to an impressive 1.6 kg. It has comparatively small dimensions of 81 mm x 251 mm x 163 mm (H x W x D).

What I don’t like:

The controller lacks the features which its brothers, the Big Knob Studio and the Big Big Knob Studio Plus, offer. It has no talkback feature, Mic Preamps, and dedicated recording outputs.

Best Volume Controller: Fostex Pc-1e

What if you want a simple external volume controller – with not even the “bells and whistles” of the Mackie Big Knob?

That’s where this little piece comes into the picture.

The Fostex PC-1e is a small-sized volume controller that is ideal for all mobile use. It can actually disappear when tucked in your shirt pocket. It is also a good, inexpensive choice for computers such as MacBook or iMac, which have a very usable sound card built in. An external D/A conversion is not absolutely necessary.

The PC-1e is also available in white. The exterior design is really delightful. A metal box that can be described as almost tiny slips out of its almost equally tiny cardboard packaging. There is a mini-jack input (stereo) for the input signal. There’s also a stereo output in the form of cinch sockets and the rotary control for the volume.

A notebook, PC, tablet, smartphone, MP3 player, or even a hi-fi device can be connected to the mini-jack input. Usually, the headphone output of these devices is used for this. A short connection cable is already included with the PC-1e. A cinch cable for the monitor speakers has also been thought of.

The sound of the small PC-1e always depends on the quality of the sound card or the sound chip of the PC or the player. Here the volume is only attenuated, but the Fostex PC-1e does this without any audible sound changes.

If you control the volume in the computer yourself, this is done first on the digital level. This means that the lower the volume is set there, the coarser the resolution of the audio signal is. You can only get around this if you always select a high volume on this first level. But this must then be somehow adjustable for the active speakers. And that is exactly the job of such monitor controllers: You run the audio signals as “hot” as possible and go with them in a well-resolved manner to a separate controller. This then regulates the volume on the analog level and forwards it to the loudspeakers.

What was particularly noticeable in the Pc-1e is rock-solid workmanship and the excellent stability with connected cables. I also liked the volume control on the device, which turned with a pleasant resistance.

What I don’t like

The Fostex Pc-1e Volume Controller doesn’t feature an On and Off switch. The volume control also has a little volume imbalance. It only balances out at around the 8 o’clock position.

Best for Power Users: Mackie Big Knob Studio+

On the occasion of the NAMM Show 2017, Mackie renewed and expanded its Big Knob monitor controller series. The largest and most extensively equipped variant is the Big Knob Studio Plus.

The Big Knob Studio Plus is solidly designed. The monitor controller is in a sturdy metal housing, which has the external dimensions of 302 x 173 x 81 mm, and a weight of 2.1 kg. The housing consists of two individual parts that are firmly screwed together. All screws are embedded in the housing so that no sharp edges protrude.

All control elements are made of plastic, are easy to touch, and are haptically pleasing. The large volume wheel sits comfortably in the hand and, with a diameter of a little more than 4 cm, offers enough “contact surface.” Directly above it is the 2 × 16 LED meter. This displays the applied input level in green, yellow, and red. The buttons Mono, Mute (-60 dB), and Dim (-20 dB) are located below the volume wheel.

The right side of the monitor controller is initially used to control the volume of the rear stereo outputs A, B, and C. Up to three pairs of studio monitors can be operated on the Big Knob Studio Plus. Alternatively, one of the outputs can also be used for a subwoofer, and this can be connected to the monitor controller. All three outputs can be active at the same time. They can be conveniently lowered from the ideal listening position by up to 12 dB in level and thus coordinated with one another.

With the Big Knob Studio Plus, Mackie shows once again that good audio quality and practical functions do not necessarily have to be expensive. The difference between upper-class recording equipment and budget class is smaller than ever today. And the Big Knob shows this in its largest of three variants.

The controllers work absolutely cleanly and without interference, which also applies to all operating elements of the controller. In addition to being used as a monitor controller, the Big Knob Studio Plus also offers the option of using it as an audio interface, including preamps. Calculate the price down to the dual functionality. Then you’ll see that’s a pretty attractive package that Mackie is offering here.

What I don’t like

Except for USB, there are no digital inputs. There is nothing to criticize concerning the audio quality of the outputs. All functions are executed cleanly, crack-free, with no falsifications in the sound.

Best for Pro Studios: PreSonus MONITOR-STATION V2

The Monitor Station V2 is a monitor controller with a sturdy, professional-grade metal housing that weighs around 4.6 kg. With dimensions around 229 x 216 x 64 mm, it’s big enough to reach all controls easily. And yet, it’s compactly built so that you don’t have to convert the entire studio for it.

The overall volume of the Monitor Station V2 can be adjusted very precisely and in small steps using the volume wheel. If desired, the signal can also be muted or reduced between 6 dB and 30 dB using the dim switch. With this monitor controller, the level to be lowered can be freely set between these two values using a potentiometer. Other monitor controllers do this with a fixed value. But, here, you have a little more freedom. Monitoring in mono can also be done with a button without any problems.

As already mentioned, the Monitor Station V2 can also be used as a headphone amplifier thanks to the internal headphone connections. In addition to the four connections on the user interface, even more, can be implemented at the cue output. Simply connect an external headphone amplifier, and you can supply four musicians or singers with signals, as well as the background choir. This can, of course, also be used for other purposes. The signal present here is controlled via the cue source buttons, and the volume depends on the cue control.

The three trim potentiometers for adjusting the volume of the monitors were simply moved to a different location. As described, these are now on the back, which is certainly the better place. Once adjusted and calibrated, you don’t need them for everyday work with the monitor controller anyway.

With version 2 of the Presonus Monitor Station, the manufacturer is significantly upgrading its monitor controller. The sound quality is and remains at a very good level. The controller’s functionality covers a wide range of applications. Three inputs plus an additional digital input can be routed to a maximum of three monitors. A 2.1 setup can also be operated on the controller.

Also, the Monitor Station V2 offers two additional outputs, as well as four internal headphone amplifiers and an integrated talkback microphone. Everything is there not just to listen, but to fully incorporate the Monitor Station V2 into your personal way of working.

What I don’t like

The volume knob is poorly placed. Depending on your seating position, you might find that it always covers the bottom LED of the 8-digit level meter.

Best for Home Studios: JBL Professional Active-1

This is a pretty amazing tool over here if you have multiple connections set up with speakers. The Active-1 offers a seamless switch of speaker systems and input sources, thanks to the A/B switching. It features the USB I/O. This is useful for direct digital recording and playbacks when you connect it into an audio system on a computer.

The precision controller also allows you to monitor up to 4 stereo sources through the 4 stereo outputs. This ensures it can deliver audio monitoring functionalities, which include precise volume control, muting, dimming, and mono summing. There’s a built-in TalkBack functionality that you can activate through the footswitch. Also, you have on-board the condenser microphone with the selectable routing. This makes it the perfect solution for a lot of applications in studio productions.

The Active-1 is very compact, lightweight, and portable. It weighs just 2lbs (less than 1kg) and has dimensions of 13.0 inches x 7.5 inches x 5.0 inches.

The user interface of the monitor controller is tilted forward for convenient operation, so you always have everything in view. The control elements of the Monitor Station are made of plastic, although they look deceptively real to be metal. Never mind, they are fluted all around on the sides and leave a very good haptic impression. Fortunately, the buttons are not the otherwise widespread “extremely soft buttons” that tend to wobble left and right. Here you get the somewhat harder version and thus also a decent pressure point – very lovely.

What I don’t like

The only downside is the price. While I don’t doubt the value it brings to the table, home studios can get a lot of mileage out of far cheaper controllers like the Big Knob.

Honorable Mention: Behringer CONTROL2USB

The Behringer CONTROL2USB Monitor Station is one of the cheapest controllers out there. With the Control2USB, Behringer is expanding its range of combination devices comprising a monitor controller and audio interface.

The first impression of the monitor is that it weighs heavy and is big too. With 39 x 20 x 8.7 cm, the Behringer Control2USB takes up a lot of space on the work surface and weighs 2.4 kg. The housing of the monitor controller consists of a plastic-metal mix. There’s a solid hull made of metal and side panels made of plastic. The processing is perfect; everything is made to fit, neatly processed, and screwed.

The 7 cm volume control characterizes the control surface of the Control2USB. Around it is an illuminated wreath of numbers that you can use to orientate yourself thanks to the white marking on the rotary wheel. However, if you turn the wheel to position 0 or 100, you will notice that the marking deviates by 1 mm (position 0) or 2 mm (position 100). So, the potentiometer and number ring do not quite match. The signal is only 100% mute when the rotary knob really hits the end. The rotary wheel is very easy to turn. Here, I would have liked a little more stiffness and overall, more grip.

The three self-explanatory function keys Mono, Mute, and Dim (-20 dB), are located above the volume wheel. On the right is the internal talkback microphone with volume control and the two buttons “To 2-Track” and “To Phones/Studio,” which assigns the talkback signal to the corresponding outputs as long as the corresponding button is pressed.

Compare the equipment of the Behringer Control2USB with monitor controllers from other manufacturers. You’d immediately notice that there’s a lot of difference. No other monitor controller is so extensive and flexible. And yes, of course, the similarity to the Mackie Big Knob or the predecessor Behringer Control1USB is immediately noticeable. In contrast to this, Behringer has given the Control2USB a voltage-regulated VCA potentiometer, called “true VCA controlled” on the Behringer website. According to the manufacturer, this results in an even finer adjustable volume.

The sound of the Behringer Control2USB is correspondingly clear and clean. The volume increases evenly over the entire bandwidth of the volume potentiometer. Switching the inputs and outputs is entirely trouble-free.

The Behringer Control2USB is an inexpensive monitor controller that can convince with the multitude of connections and routing options. A maximum of three studio monitors plus headphones and an additional studio output can be operated on the monitor controller. All signals can be recorded on a computer via USB. An LED meter is on board, as well as a talkback microphone. All in all, it’s very recommendable.

What I don’t like

There is hardly anything to criticize at this point. Only the missing connection for an external talkback microphone can be seen as a drawback. .

Over to You

A good monitor controller is an essential for any studio. Hopefully, this list of the best monitor controllers will help you zero-in on the right product for your needs.

For more recommendations and advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to me here.

Also Read:

• Our favorite studio monitors, hands down.
• Complement your monitor controllers with a control surface for your DAW.

References:

• Mackie (official website)
• JBL (official website)
• PreSonus (official website)
• Behringer Control2USB (official website)

As a drummer, your headphone requirements are different than casual listeners. You need them either to monitor your own drumming (in a live setting). Or you need them to reduce noise (during practice or live performance). For both these uses, you need specific qualities – strong noise reduction, high-fidelity monitoring (especially in the low end). To help you buy the right set of headphones, we’ve put together this list of the best headphones for drums you can buy in 2020.

As any seasoned drummer would know, drums are a) hard to mic up, and b) hard on your ears. If you’re practicing indoors, you need something to reduce the noise – else you can say goodbye to your ears in two decades.

At the same time, when you’re playing live, you need a way to monitor what you’re playing without losing fidelity.

This essentially leaves two use cases for drumming headphones:

• To monitor the sound output when drums are mic’ed up, or when you’re using electronic drums
• To reduce noise during practice or live sessions

Most serious drummers I know use different headphones for both these purposes. They might use an in-ear monitor in a live setting (since the acoustics of a live arena are usually not as harsh as small indoor spaces). At the same time, they might have a pair of noise reducing headphones to protect their ears and still listen to drums while practicing.

Given these constraints, it can be hard to zero-in on the perfect pair of headphones for durmming.

Which is why we put together this guide to buying the best headphones for drums in 2020.

The Best Headphones for Drums

We’ll look at drumming headphones for both monitoring and hearing protection below. We’ll start off by sharing our favorite (and affordable) in-ear monitors – perfect for live settings. We’ll also share a few headphones for protecting your ears during long practice sessions.

Let’s start with our top pick for drumming monitors:

The first of the best headphones for drums on this line up is the Shure SE215-CL. These excellent mid-range earphones deliver wonderful performance at a bargain. Shure is renowned all over the world for the high quality nature of its products, especially headphones and similar products. These models are not an exception.

These headphones come with several design features in order to fit more hardware that improves your sound experience. Unlike typical ear buds, these earphones slip into the ear much further. With what result? Well, I found them to offer better noise isolation than most other options on the market.

It comes with modules that are made like the large cavity just outside the ear canal. Therefore, they rest in the outer ear comfortably. It features an acoustic seal that serves to prevent noise from getting in.

It comes with detachable cables, which make it easier to repair in cases of damage. When it comes to drumming, the detachable nature of the cable means that you can drum as hard as you want without fear of tangling your drumstick with the cable. Even if you choose to use the cable, the over-the-ear design will keep them out of your way. The earphones feel rather hefty, but this is offset by the shape and design. Hence, they do not slip out of the ear as you wear them.

While the design might not be especially appealing, the performance is what really takes my breath away. The excellent audio performance that these earphones pump-out rivals even the performance from more expensive options on the market. I enjoyed the rich bass and clear trebles that emanate from the model.

The earphones are made from high-quality materials that are sure to last for a long time despite heavy use. You can choose from three different colors.

Whether for monitoring or for listening, you can rest assured that this product will give you the rich sound experience that you crave.

What I don’t like:

I particularly disliked that there are no in-line controls. It also takes some time to master how to wear the earphones – a minor quibble.

Best Headphones for Isolation: Vic Firth V2 (SIH2)

For folks with sensitive ears, the Vic Firth Stereo Isolation Headphones V2 (SIH2) is a god-send. It is designed to satisfy even the choosiest of drummers as it comes with stunning noise cancellation properties.

Using these headphones, you will receive protection from noise, perforation, and other problems that occur during drumming. The near-constant noise from drums is a dangerous issue for drummers since it can cause different types of hearing issues. With this headphone, you will be protected. From my testing, it is the overall best headphone for drummers.

It is somewhat heavy, but after some time testing, I got used to the weight and even had a good time wearing them without feeling weighed down.

The construction of the headphones underlines its quality. While at first glance, it might seem to be cheap or flimsy, closer examination reveals that it is made from high-quality materials that can last the rigors of everyday use. It has thick cushioning ear pads that help it with the insulation value of 25 Db. This model comes with a 6′ cable, which is certainly long enough to reach your monitor or phone.

Performance is where these headphones excel. With the ability to reduce noise by up to 25 dB, these headphones rival dedicated noise-cancelling headphones that are even more expensive. The noise-cancelling ability might make it tough to hear your own drumming. Therefore, I recommend that in live performances, you should ensure your drums are in the sound mix entering the headphones.

It delivers a really impressive wide dynamic range. It should be noted that the sound produced is not excessively loud, and I put this down to the isolation properties. The sound quality delivered is quite impressive.

For the price, you will be hard-pressed to find a better option on the market.

What I don’t like

I personally don’t have any issues with performance. The issue I have is with the design. It comes with plastic material under the soft cushions. This material makes the headphones uncomfortable to wear after a while. Therefore, if you will be wearing the headphones for extended periods, you should note that you might get uncomfortable wearing it.

Best Premium In-Ear Monitors: Shure SE425-CL

The next option on this list is the best premium in-ear monitor. It is very similar to the 425 we reviewed above, coming with similar features. The main difference between the two products is that this doesn’t come with the in-built Bluetooth capability. However, if you still desire Bluetooth use, you can get the Bluetooth enabled cable sold separately.

Shure has some of the best products for sound lovers on the market today and continues with these excellent in-ear monitors.

The design is simple but looks and feels good. Although it features a plastic body like the model reviewed above, it offers similar sturdy construction. While made of plastic, the joints feel very solid. Hence you can use them for a long time without damage. They are built to last and feel comfortable. Considering that these cost more than most options on the market, it isn’t very surprising that it is made of durable, high quality materials.

The wire or cable that comes with these in-ear monitors is made of similar high-quality materials. It can be detached for a Bluetooth enable cable. However, if you aren’t interested in Bluetooth, you will find this cable to feel just great. It comes in a design that ensures that it doesn’t slip or cause any disturbance during your drumming sessions. You can rest assured that it will last for long without breaking.

As earlier pointed out, it doesn’t come with innate Bluetooth capabilities; however, it can be converted to a wireless monitor with a Bluetooth cable sold separately. Therefore, you can pair it with laptops, and other Bluetooth enabled devices easily.

As with the similar model reviewed above, it comes with three different sized tips you can choose from to find the best fit. It is very comfortable and will not slip out of your ear as you drum.
The accurate and balanced sound is really impressive. With its wide frequency range, I found it to deliver clear sound.

Sound isolation is quite impressive with these monitors. It comes with sleeves that can block noise up to 37 dB. Therefore, you can enjoy performances or rehearsals without external noise disturbing you.

Overall, I found these in-ear monitors to be a great choice. I especially love the detachable feature of the cable. It allows for several connectivity options from Bluetooth to USB-C. It comes in clear and silver colors to offer some variety in design.

What I don’t like

While these in-ear monitors sound good, the high price is a drawback. It is simply too expensive and does not fully justify the price tag in my own opinion.

Best Bluetooth In-Ear Monitors: Shure SE425

This is the second Shure product to be reviewed in this roundup, and for good reasons. The company has some of the best products for audiophiles on the market, and this model is no exception. It is a Bluetooth compatible model that gives really great sound.

The design is quite understated but has a quiet elegance. The body of the earphones is all plastic, but the joints feel really solid, so you don’t have to fret excessively about breakage. I personally like the design and the overall aesthetic of the product.

It comes with a detachable cable, which is great for drummers since cables can get in the way of drumming. Furthermore, as the joints and sockets are well made, you won’t have to worry that you will lose drivers when they are about your neck. The cable mentioned above is quite thick and comes with a clip to keep it behind your ear. It feels great and looks like it will last for a long period.

The Bluetooth functionality means that you can pair it with your phones, laptops, and other devices.

There are three different types of tips that are found in the packaging. Once you find the best tip for your ear, you will find they are quite comfortable and does not slip out even as you bob your head to the beat of your drum.

The sound quality on these bad boys is excellent. It sounds great due to the tweeter and woofer that have been tuned to deliver better sound. If you are using these in a noisy place, these earphones provide decent sound isolation that ensures a distraction-free session.

Overall, it is an excellent sounding pair of earphones that provide all the details that you want to hear. I love the soundstage that makes almost every genre of music sound really good. If you pair them with the right amp, you will get even better sounds.

What I don’t like

These earphones are somewhat expensive, and the sound it produces might not, at least for some, match the relatively high cost. Plus, Bluetooth is generally not ideal for monitoring – even though I can understand why people choose it for the convenience.

Best Budget Headphones for Drums: Alesis DRP100

When mixing drum sounds, you need headphones that will give you great sound since each drum set possesses its own tone. If the sounds of the drums cannot be easily differentiated, they won’t sound clear. The Alesis DRP100 is an excellent option that helps to isolate drum sounds and is great for drum monitoring.

These headphones are not just passive isolation pair, but they also serve as monitor headphones.

The design of these headphones is quite interesting. It features a clamp on the top that isn’t too tight to be uncomfortable. It also features a silicone headband which is anti-moisture. Therefore, you can wear them for extended periods without getting fatigued or uncomfortable.

Aesthetically, I found these to be a good-looking pair of headphones. The black and blue hues look really good.

The Alesis DRP100 comes with a detachable cable; which is great in case it ever gets damaged.

To be honest, considering the relatively low price of these headphones, it is quite impressive that they feel so good to wear.

These headphones are great for drummers since the noise isolation properties ensure no sounds pass through and disturb the drummer. They can reduce noise by up to 32 dB.

Additionally, this product comes with a carrying case. Therefore they remain safe when not in use.

Overall, I really had a good time using these headphones. The design is very comfortable, and I could use them for hours on end without feeling tired or uncomfortable around the ears.

What we don’t like

Sound quality isn’t especially great, which is not surprising considering the low price. However, if you will be using them for your electronic drums, you will likely be satisfied with the overall performance.

Best Earmuffs for Noise Reduction: Howard Leight by Honeywell

The last option that we will consider on this list of the best headphones for drummers is one that is usually found on the shooting range. The Howard Leight by Honeywell is an excellent pair of earmuffs that serve to reduce noise levels and offer decent sound quality when used with drums.

Noise isn’t good when it is high as it can obviously cause hearing problems.

It comes with low profile earcups that help with its noise reduction and directional microphones that amplify ambient sounds up to 82 decibels.

Most of the other options on the market, including some of the options that we have reviewed so far, can reduce sound from the environment by up to 25 decibels. These headphones go up a notch by providing noise reduction of up to 30 decibels.

This noise reduction is the main attraction of these earmuffs. It is even more impressive when you consider how cheap they are.

Therefore, while they off good isolation from noise, they are still useful when having conversations or issuing and receiving commands from band members.

The design of the earmuffs, aside from being great at reducing noise, also feels very comfortable. The headphones weigh around 15 ounces, which means that you can wear them for extended periods without being uncomfortable. When not in use, you can simply fold them and place them in a safe place. The comfort derived is also enhanced by the padded headband.

I found them to fit my head well, and since they come in one size with adjustable parts, anyone will be able to wear them.

For drum monitoring, you can connect these headphones to your drum set. It comes with a cable port that is compatible with 3.5 mm cables.

What we don’t like

From my testing, I observed that the volume and fidelity of sound leaves a lot to be desired. They are at best back up headphones and shouldn’t be your main option. Fortunately, their low price makes them good backup options.

Over to You

Buying the right pair of headphones can be tough when you’re a drummer. You need something that protects your ears while also helping you monitor your sound output – without compromising on the fidelity.

Hopefully, our list of the best headphones for drums will help you zero-in on the right choice.

For more recommendations and advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to me here.

Also read:

• Our guide to the best electronic drum sets
• Need studio headphones? Check out our top selections here
• Want cheap earbuds you can use anywhere? Then check out this list

References:

• Shure (Official website)
• Honeywell Howard Light Ear Muffs (Official website)
• Alesis DRP 100 (Official website)
• How to Mic-Up Drums (Sweetwater)
• Vic Firth (Official Website)

Get a better listening experience with our pick of the best headphones for classical music.

Modern commercial headphones are awful for listening to classical music.

Because of the popularity of hip-hop and headphones like Beats, practically every pair of consumer headphones over-emphasizes bass frequencies. That’s how you get the loud “thump” in the low-end.

That’s great for hip-hop and pop, but classical music has scarcely any low-end. All the action happens in the mids and trebles. The latter are often too shrill on consumer headphones. And mids are barely present.

If you want to listen to classical music, you want headphones that can handle the entire gamut of frequencies comfortably (especially the oft-ignored mids).

To help you out, we put together this list of the best headphones for classical music you can buy right now. We’ve covered every budget and use case. Jump to the section below to find the perfect pair of headphones for your needs.

The Best Headphones for Classical Music

Here are my picks for the best classical music headphones for different budgets and needs:

If you are concerned about comfort, affordability, and overall sound performance, then you should closely consider the DT 990 Pro from Beyerdynamic. The headphones are rather dated, but they are still as good as or even better than more expensive studio headphones on the market right now. They have a unique feel and design that you just cannot find elsewhere.

While the build quality is dated and isn’t as good as some others on this roundup, it still feels solid. The all-plastic design feels cheap, with the only concession to metal being the metal band holding the cups together. However, while the plastic might feel hard, the padding on and around the earcups erases any discomfort. It feels soft on the ears and gives a premium feel.

With 80 ohms impedance, it is an industry-standard headphone. Sound performance is impressive on its own, although you can make it sound even better by adding an amp.

Sound quality is quite incredible, especially considering that these are mid-range headphones. In fact, you’ll likely not find any headphones as good in this price range. The low-end responsiveness makes it an excellent option if you want to listen to classical music. The mid and high ends are also impressive and give an overall unbelievable classical music hearing experience.

With an open-back design, you can hear the music naturally and have an excellent listening experience.

What I don’t like:

Well, I have briefly touched on something I don’t like about the headphone. It is quite dated, and the plastic build is not very durable. Additionally, although the cable is of a satisfactory length, it is not detachable. Therefore, if anything were to happen to it, you’d be in trouble.

Best Open Back Headphones: Sennheiser HD 599 SE

While a closed-back unit will not ruin your listening experience, open-back headphones are especially suited for listening to classical music, and the Sennheiser HD 599 SE is the best of all the open back options I tested.

It is a studio headphone that has an open back design. One advantage of the design is that it feels very comfortable to wear over extended periods and acoustically; it keeps the sounds clear of any unnatural reverbs.

Another notable sound feature of the Sennheiser HD 599 SE is that it does not over-focus on the low frequencies. Instead, its strength lies in the midrange. Thus, it is one of the best headphones for classical music.

Due to this feature, the classical music you play sounds full, and each note is easy to distinguish. Additionally, it is a versatile and powerful headphone that can give you plenty of volume without using an amp.

Design-wise, it is a highly comfortable pair of headphones. It comes with velour ear cushions that allow you to wear them for hours without irritation or heating up. There is sufficient padding all around, even on the headband. Despite the open-back design, the earcups are made to direct music straight into your ears for a natural sound.

What I don’t like

While the open-back design comes with several advantages as outlined above, this design means that sound isolation is practically non-existent. If you are looking for a pair of headphones with sound-isolation, steer clear of this model.

Best for Audiophiles: Shure SRH1840

If you are ready to spend up to half a grand or more on a pair of headphones, then these are some of the best headphones to splurge on. The Shure SRH1840 comes with several features, including unbeatable durability, and importantly for your classical music listening experience, high fidelity playback.

They are super comfortable despite the aircraft-grade aluminum construction. The yoke is made from aluminum alloy while the grilles are from stainless steel. This makes it a highly durable unit that certainly looks premium. With an adjustable headband and ear cups, you can listen to your favorite pieces of classical music for hours without feeling uncomfortable around the ears.

Internally, the Shure SRH1840 has a steel driver frame that controls internal resonance and gives you a rich, consistent sound, regardless of how high you turn up the volume. This driver also reduces the chances of sound leaking. Therefore, while it is an open-back headphone, it doesn’t leak sounds.

Performance-wise, the mid-range here is impressive. While the frequency range responsiveness is somewhat wide, I didn’t particularly fancy the lows or highs. However, the clarity of sound saves the Shure SRH1840 from being a complete disappointment in this regard.

What I don’t like

First, it is heavier than I am used to. I chalk this weight down to the high-quality materials of construction. I also did not like the low-end performance of this headphone. It’s not a huge issue for classical music but definitely something that would bug you given its price.

Best Wireless Headphones: Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 Wireless

Released back in 2015, these headphones are rather dated, but they still give excellent performance. The good thing about the world of audio technology is that it moves slowly. Hence, good headphones remain good even as the years roll by. The Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 Wireless were among the first headphones to bring Bluetooth and Wireless technology to headphones, and five years later, it is still as good as it was back then. The excellent performance is even made sweeter because of the drop in price.

In creating this roundup, I tested scores of headphones, and I must say that these are the best wireless headphones in terms of design, at least. It combines looks, materials, and ergonomics to give a highly comfortable option. The materials, leather and brushed metal, set this apart from the hundreds of models on the market. It looks and feels premium. And it isn’t all for show. It is as durable as they come.

Despite looking like a one-piece model, it comes with a foldable design that makes it easy to carry around with you. The cups are made of high-quality leather and plastic that improves comfort.
The USP of these headphones is the wireless connection. Well, it doesn’t disappoint. It is Bluetooth and NFC compatible. It also uses the NoiseGard technology to improve noise cancellation.

With up to 22 hours of use with Bluetooth and NFC turned on, these headphones have a really impressive battery life.

Performance is still impressive despite the age. Noise cancellation is superb, but the shining light is sound performance. It is simply incredible. The sound is warm, but not so much that it becomes unbearable. Of special note is the mid-range. Vocal and instrumentals are crisp and direct. The soundstage is also pleasing and wide.

What I don’t like

Well, the shortcomings cannot be helped really. Other wireless models, especially newer options, have more features. It doesn’t have things like a dedicated button for Virtual Assistants, proximity sensors, and other Smart features.

Best Budget Pick: AKG K240

Some of the models that I have reviewed so far come at fairly high prices. However, if you are looking for a cheap option, you will do well to consider the AKG K240 headphones. AKG is a popular brand and has made some of the most impressive headphones I have used. The AKG K240 headphones are a budget-level model that will still let you enjoy listening to classical music.

Design-wise, these headphones are not so different from hundreds of others on the market. However, it is differentiated by the semi-open design. This design incorporates oversized transducers and Varimotion diaphragm, resulting in headphones that have more than decent frequency response and sound stage.

While lows are somewhat disappointing in this unit, the treble and mid-range are truly impressive, which are what you need for the best classical music sound performance. With 55 Ohms of impedance, it is not for studio use, but since all you care about is your classical music, you will have a good time with this headphone.

What I don’t like

As a budget level, it doesn’t look expensive in the least. The plastic build feels cheap, and it isn’t as durable as more expensive models. The bass is also explosive, but I don’t think that would be of great concern if you are listening to classical music.

Best Active Noise Cancellation: Bose 700

Bose was the company that made noise cancellation popular, but as the years rolled on, rival manufacturers caught on. Well, the Bose 700 is Bose’s return to form. This pair of headphones focuses on noise cancellation and still manages to excel in other performance metrics. It sports a new design, better sound performance, USB-C charging, and a gesture pad.

In real-life use, these headphones are simply delightful to wear. While there are a few kinks to straighten out, the general consensus is that these are great headphones. They are easy to wear, look beautiful, and are durable.

It comes with a minimalist design and a futuristic gesture pad that replaces any playback buttons. The earcups have 90-degree rotation, which allows you to fold them or rest them on your neck when not in use.

There are up to 11 levels of noise cancellation on the Bose 700, which can be accessed via the Bose Music App. Battery life is great, as it can push up to 20 hours.

Performance is important, and during my testing, I was pleased with the performance. While it isn’t the best sounding pair of headphones, it is sufficient. Notes are clear and crisp with the highs, mids, and lows sounding great.

What I don’t like

The lack of folding hinges means they are not as portable as I’d have liked. While you can use it to make calls, the microphone sometimes cuts of lower notes.

Best Earphones: Shure SE425-CL

This is a deviation from the headphone design that I am reviewing. The Shure SE425-CL is an in-ear pair of earphones that are the finest models you can find at this price range.

Without beating around the bush, let me just say that these are super impressive earphones, especially when compared with others in a similar category.

The main thing going for these earphones is the performance. The success of these earphones lies in the details. Plug them into your music player, and you will be impressed by the immersive sound you will get. Immersive is even an understatement where these earphones are concerned. At this price, you simply will not find a model that will help you hear things you didn’t know were in your favorite piece of classical music.

From the lows to mids and highs, nothing is overdone. Listen to a guitar pick, and you will never experience any brashness. Shure has kept quite a lid on the sounds to create enough room for fun and excitement without making it sound annoying.

Although these earphones do not pack the same punch as headphones might, it is still very impressive.

The design is where the unit somewhat falters (more on that later). However, despite the fumble, it is still more comfortable than several similarly designed options. It is solidly built and will last you for some time.

What I don’t like

Sound-wise, there is almost nothing to complain about. The complaints lie in the design. The foam tips can be very annoying to fit into the ears. That is the only thing that I hated about the earphones. However, if you are fortunate, you can have a unit that would fit perfectly.

Best All-Purpose Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x 

The last on this list, but certainly not the least, is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphone – one of my favorite headphones that offers something for everyone. It offers impressive build quality and excellent sound performance. It is also very comfortable to wear and has a detachable cord design.

The headphones have a thick, sturdy build that feels like it will last for a long time. The sturdiness is seen in the cord as well. It comes in a thick design and ends in a heavy-duty plug. Thus, it can take a beating without breaking.

Comfort is assured with these headphones. The model has thick, padded earcups that feel great on the ears without getting overly warm. The headphones are foldable as well, which means that you can carry them around without hassle.

While these headphones are marketed as monitor headphones, they are very versatile and can actually be used for so many other things. This is majorly due to the impressive lows, which you won’t find even in more expensive headphones.

What I don’t like

While the sound is decent for most uses, I found the sound stage to be a tad disappointing. It’s a little too close for my taste. While the intimacy works well for music production – the ATH M50x’s original purpose – it feels too tight for classical music.

Since these are monitors, not just headphones, the frequency response is flat as well.

Over to You

Finding the best headphones for classical music isn’t easy – you can never be sure what to get for music as challenging as classical music. Hopefully, this guide will help you make the right decision.

For more recommendations and advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to me here.

Also Read:

• Our favorite studio headphones by far
• Our top recommendations for studio headphones on a budget
• Pick one of these DACs to accompany your headphones for even better sound quality

References:

• Sennheiser Headphones (official website)
• Bose (official website)
• Shure (official website)
• AKG headphones (official website)

Intimate sound and wide open sound stage come together in this list of the best semi open headphones

Choosing headphones always comes with a dilemma: do you choose closed back or open back headphones?

Closed back headphones are, as you can imagine, closed from the back. This makes them more intimate with a tighter sound stage. The music feels very close to your ears. But on the flip side, these headphones are also uncomfortable. Plus, the tight sound stage means that you don’t get a sense of “space”.

In contrast, open back headphones are, well, open from the back. This helps the headphones “breathe” and creates a much wider sound stage. With open back headphones, it’s almost like you’re wearing speakers on your head. You get a much better sense of space and presence.

On the down side, open back headphones offer zero privacy. Everyone within earshot will hear everything you’re listening to. Plus, the wide sound stage also means that you miss some of the complex instrumentation in tracks.

Semi-open headphones seek to bridge the closed/open back divide. As the name implies, these headphones have a semi-closed back. While some sound leaks out, it’s far less than open back headphones. At the same time, the semi-closed back gives you a greater sense of intimacy.

If you can’t decide between closed or open back headphones, or want to buy just one pair of headphones, semi open headphones are a great alternative.

Below, I’ll look at some of the best semi open headphones on the market and share my recommendations for different budgets and needs.

The Best Semi Open Headphones

Here’s a closer look at my favorite semi-open back headphones currently:

When you think of professional headphones, the name Beyerdnamic keeps coming up. With models such as the original DT 770 PRO or the somewhat newer DT 880, the German company has already won over the hearts and ears of numerous sound engineers.

With the DT 880, Beyerdynamic offers headphones that, despite their high performance, are still in the middle class in terms of price. They are dynamic studio headphones in a semi-open design. So that means a mixture of an open and a closed concept. In detail, an attempt is made to find an optimal mix of the transparent sound of open headphones and the pressure in the low-frequency range of closed variants.

As is so often the case in this class, the ears are completely enclosed by the auricles. So they don’t rest on them. The DT 880 weighs 290 grams. It cannot be folded up due to its very rigid construction. Beyerdynamic is very consistent here, albeit a bit old-fashioned. After all, you never get into the embarrassment of having to “knot” the headphones apart.

As with the other Beyerdynamic models, the frame construction of the DT880 is made of spring steel. It is not only robust but also ensures sufficient stability. The bracket can, of course, be adjusted in size so that it can be individually adapted to the circumference of the head.

On the upper edge of the bracket is the typical button-off padding, a leather strap filled with foam. This also serves as a cable guide between the two ear cups.

They are available in three versions, 32, 250, and 600 ohms. With a specified nominal impedance of 250 ohms, the DT880 has a core sound pressure level of 96 dB. You only need a little more steam for the same volume compared to the DT-770.

As with the other BeyerDynamic models, the nominal load capacity of the DT 880 is 100 mW, which is completely sufficient.

What I don’t like

The headphones are not balanced in sound reproduction. There’s a little difference in impedance between each phone. Taking the 600-ohm headphones up, while one of the phones measure 520 ohms, the second measures 550 ohms. It also has a design that leaks sound.

Best Value Semi Open Headphones: AKG K240

The K240 models have quite a long history. The classic is considered an all-rounder in the musical or auditory studio environment. It was mostly used for monitoring in the recording room and is still used for this purpose.

The classic headphones not only have a charming retro look but also feature high-quality workmanship. The K240 is largely built with plastic and, with its color combination of black and gold, appears robust and stable.

However, if minor damage occurs, it can be eliminated in no time. The replacement is uncomplicated due to the screw connection of the bracket mechanism and the easy-to-change ear pads.

Working in the studio requires neutral and defensive headphones that do not distort the sound and carry the objective sound directly into the ear canal. The AKG K240 was designed precisely for this occasion. Thanks to the 55 ohms of the K240, the headphones are also suitable for listening to music via smartphones or other playback devices. The sound is more than solid and puts a lot of pressure on the ears.

The lower bass as well as the upper treble are somewhat milder during playback but remain within limits. The middle frequency range is reproduced naturally, so voices can be differentiated from one another very well.

The bottom line is that the AKG K240 headphones keep their promises.

Individual sound sources can be easily located thanks to the semi-open processing of the headphones. The reproduction is extremely airy and transparent.

The objective and moderate sound reproduction is practically the showpiece of the headphones. So, mixing and mastering work perfectly.

Even if the K240 can call up its full potential in the studio, other listening enjoyment is also possible without any problems. The headphones even cut a fine figure on the street.

In addition to the sound, it impresses with a rudimentary design that harmonizes with robust workmanship.

What I don’t like

The headphones are made without breathable materials and with body-hugging materials. This can be a bit sweaty with prolonged use. Carrying the AKG K240 could be a bit uncomfortable, especially at higher temperatures in the summer months or in studios with stuffy air.

Most Affordable/Portable: Shure SRH144

Designed by a brand with one of the greatest legacies in music history, the SRH144 semi-open portable headphones offer an extended audio range and improved high-frequency response.

The Shure SRH144 is a pair of supra-aural semi-open Hi-Fi audio headphones. It’s suitable for natural sound and great listening comfort. Intended for domestic and nomadic use thanks to its featherweight, it also has a lined hoop and a foldable structure.

Comfortable and lightweight, the SRH-144 headphones is the semi-open version of the SRH-145 headphones. It is particularly suitable for mobile use with a walkman or smartphone. This pretty headset also benefits from a careful design and all the know-how of the American brand in the field of headphones.

The headphones offer an extended audio range and an improved response in high frequencies. Its adjustable design is for natural sound reproduction and a custom fit.
The semi-open ear cups allow for natural sound reproduction. It has an ultralight, foldable design for easy storage and uses on the go. The adjustable ear cups as well as the padded headband, ensure a secure and ergonomic fit. There is a two-year warranty which covers free replacement or repair.

In the range of affordable portable hearing aids, it is common to see fragile materials and boring designs. But Shure is committed to breaking the mold. This has a very interesting design that adorns an effective ergonomic system of rails directly on the cushioned headphones and joints on the headband. Portable hearing aids should be lightweight, so plastic is indispensable. But Shure made sure to place metal in places that are more exposed to stress, such as the hinges and the screws on the cover.

As I mentioned above, these headphones are very light, designed to be worn on the road, and for long periods. But they are strong when pressing the ear, as they make an effort to isolate outside noise (very effectively considering they are on-ear) and avoid falling. The earphone and band cushions are soft and welcome. But still, it is difficult to tolerate pressure for more than a couple of hours.

What I don’t like

I must start by mentioning that Shure lies in the ad and packaging. It is not true that they have a full audio range (30Hz-20KHz). I dare say that their true performance is between 60Hz-8KHz, which is the space where they really deliver a clear and precise sound. Also, their ends are very weak.

Best Entry-Level Headphones: Superlux HD-672

The HD672 is a wired over-ears headphone system from Superlux. It has a semi-open design and a sound level that would be expected in significantly higher price regions. This makes it an extremely attractive entry-level product for the Hi-Fi world.

In terms of size, the over-ears are not necessarily subtle, but rather have a stately appearance. At the same time, the hi-fi headphones with a weight of 270g are not a heavyweight which is noticeable when worn. The suspension of the headphone shells, which is rigid in itself, ensures sufficient adaptability, especially on the horizontal plane, thanks to a very flexible bracket construction. It has a simple but well-thought-out construction that creates a tight fit with noticeable contact pressure. However, it offers a good grip on the go.

The padding of the headphone shells is made of rubber and is reminiscent of car tires due to the surface texture. However, it is visually striking. It has an extremely puristic approach, as there is only air underneath the “rubber tires”.

The rubber padding tends to accumulate heat despite the semi-open design. However, the criticism can be put to bed when the price segment is taken into account.

Also, the processing quality of the HD672 is extremely good, and there is nothing else to complain about. On the contrary, the permanently installed, longer than average cable of the hi-fi headphones also makes a robust, quality impression. It does not cause any cable noise and has a gold-plated mini-jack plug. The supplied jack adapter is also gold-plated.

The bass is always powerful without being dominant, while the mids are present, powerful, and rich in detail. There is no drop in the upper frequencies so that the highs also have presence and give the sound a lot of openness.

The HD672 has a high output and can also be used in noisy environments such as public transport. However, the hi-fi headphones are not only loud but also impress with their clear, balanced sound. The round, harmonic tuning has a direct response and has a good stereo image without offering a huge stage.

What impressed me most, however, was the spatial representation of the over-ears, which I would not have thought possible in this price range. Here the advantages of the half-open design are used and optimally brought to bear.

What I don’t like

The sound has dull properties and appears slightly washed. However, it is difficult for me to seriously criticize this due to the overall sound quality offered. The cord cannot be removed.

Best for Music Production: Samson SR850

The Samson SR850 is a pair of half-open headphones for the studio and living room. When you unpack the SR850, you experience your first surprise: instead of black headphones, as the packaging suggests, the outer parts of the ear cups shimmer slightly into olive green. This optical stumbling block is not a real drawback, because the headphones still look very high quality and stable.

You experience a second surprise when you connect the headphones for the first time. Because worlds open up for the price. The frequency response sounds quite linear and only a bit reduced in the middle. The bass is defined without being overdrawn. The gradation of depths can be heard, as well as the lofty heights, which only sometimes appear slightly pointed, for example when listening to an opera. Only the impulse behavior could be a little more defined.

Even if the Samson headphones are advertised as studio-type headphones, they look great on the couch at home. The sound is balanced and feels equally comfortable in all styles of music. This may also be due to the relatively linear frequency response, which does not explicitly favor or exclude any musical genre. Since the headphones are half-open, they are only suitable for use in public transport to a very limited extent. The lack of foldability and the lack of a camouflage sports bag also suggest stationary operation.

In addition to hi-fi use, they also do well as studio headphones. The padding is pleasantly soft and encloses the ears. However, a changeable cable would be a very useful addition to the headphone.

Still, the SR850 sounds like much more expensive headphones.

What I don’t like

It lacks foldability and a detachable cable. The latter is a particularly big miss since the cable is usually the first thing that breaks in studio headphones.

Best for Audiophiles: beyerdynamic T1 2nd Gen

The Beyerdynamic T 1 (2nd generation) are semi-open headphones with dynamic drivers and circumaural auricles. The weight of the T1 is a moderate 356 g without cable, and there is no folding mechanism for transport purposes.

The metal-dominated mix of materials in the headphones are manufactured and perfectly crafted in Heilbronn. They look extremely classy, serious, and stable. The finely crafted, fabric-like metal cover of the ear cups, which makes the T 1 unmistakable, is striking. The cable, which runs on both sides, is covered with fabric over its entire length. It is therefore optimally protected from damage.

The Beyerdynamic headphones have cable routing on both sides. The cable ends are provided with a 3.5mm jack connection and can therefore be easily exchanged. The cable length is 3 m and ends in a gold-plated 3.5 mm jack plug. A screw adapter to 6.35 mm is included in the scope of delivery. Alternative cable lengths and an audiophile connection cable for operation with balanced headphone amplifiers are optionally available.

The T 1 is delivered with a practical transport box. In contrast to the bulky suitcase of the previous model, it is much easier to store in luggage or a backpack.

Like its predecessor, the T1 (2nd generation) is a representative of BeyerDynamic’ proven Tesla technology. This is characterized by a strong magnetic field and high converter efficiency. Somewhat against the general trend is the high impedance of the Beyerdynamic headphones with 600 ohms. The manufacturer hereby deliberately limits the area of application of the T1 to operation on “reputable” headphone amplifiers.

As with most currently available headphones, the transmission range with the specified 5 to 50,000 even exceeds the human hearing range quite significantly.

What I don’t like

I know BeyerDynamic are a reference in the audio technology industry and their products come at a premium. However, the T1 2nd generation could be a bit cheaper. Also, there is limited usability on mobile playback devices.

Over to You

Semi open headphones aren’t nearly as popular as their closed and open back counterparts. But if you try one of the models listed above, you’ll find that they’re a great and comfortable alternative to bulky closed/open headphones.

Use this list to zero-in on the best semi open headphones for your needs.

For more suggestions and recommendations, email us using this contact form.

Check our other recommendations

• See what open back headphones we recommend here
• Love bass? Then you’ll love our pick of the best bass headphones
• Store your headphones in style with these headphone stands

References:

• beyerdynamic.com
• Bose.com
• Sennheiser.com
• Shure.com
• SamsonTech

Get a better listening experience with our pick of the best headphones for amps, including some surprisingly affordable options.

If you own a dedicated amp, it’s safe to say that you care about music.

Maybe the amp in question is a guitar amp. Or maybe it’s even a basic DAC + amp combo.

In either case, it pretty much means that the listening experience is important to you. After all, most standard computing gear, including many smartphones, have decent built-in soundcards and amplification to make buying external amps unnecessary – at least for most casual listeners.

If you’ve already invested in an amp, you need headphones that can do them justice. There’s nothing worse than someone spending $500 on an amp and then plugging in some Beats into them. Even entry-level audiophile-grade headphones can do wonders with a decent amp.

When it comes to headphones, my selection policy is rather conservative. Instead of newer models, I prefer the tried and tested offerings – the Sonys and Audio-Technicas that have been used, abused, and reused for years. You can’t really go wrong with an ATH-M50x or Sony MDR7506.

I also categorically avoid high-end audiophile gear. While a $1,000 Denon would undoubtedly be better, such headphones are unaffordable for the average listeners, and frankly, an overkill for most users. You can get perfectly great result with an M50x or an AKG K240 with the right amp.

With this dual focus on reliability and affordability, let’s take a closer look at the best headphones for amps you can buy right now.

The 6 Best Headphones for Amps

Here are our six favorite headphones for amps, divided by category:

The Sennheiser HD 650 is the best option for audiophiles as it delivers a rich, warm, crisp sound across different genres. They are quite versatile, and apart from giving you impressive guitar amp performance, they are also excellent for mixing and mastering.

While these might lack some volume if plugged straight into your guitar or phone, adding an audio interface with an amp will boost the performance and make them pretty loud. The build quality on these is great. If you will be using them often for a long time, say five years, you should get ready to replace some parts. Some of the notorious parts that first start to fall off include the drivers, headband, and the earpads. Thankfully, though, these are all easy to replace.

Sound performance is what really matters, and we are glad to report that these offer great sound. From our testing and reviews from users, the Sennheiser HD 650 is arguably the most neutral pair of headphones on the market and is ready for use without any tweaking. One issue that several headphone manufacturers have is matching the right driver to the right ears. Sennheiser HD 650 doesn’t have this problem, which is excellent. Because there are matched left and right drivers, the soundstage offered remains highly consistent across different frequencies.

They are designed with the ears in mind, with soft earpads and a lightweight build. The open-back design also improves the breathability of these headphones. The porous earcups do not warm up as much as you’d find in several other headphones on the market.

The frequency response here is better than average. You’ll enjoy almost perfect bass delivery and very little deviation in that range. And as for the mid-range, it is definitely one of the best we have heard on any pair of headphones. You will enjoy using it now and for a long time.

What I don’t like

One downside is that leakage is really poor, and noise isolation is non-existent. Another issue is portability. These headphones are not made to be portable. They cannot be folded and lack any carry case.

Best Value for Money: Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX

The Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX comes as the best headphones for budget audiophiles on this list and comes with a stunning design and plenty of comfort that is even better than what is found in more expensive headphones. Planar is one of the best makers of high-quality headphones, which is one reason why many have flocked to purchase a pair of budget headphones from the company.

The build quality is very good. The Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX comes as an upgrade to previous versions in more than one sense. First of all, the manufacturer has opted to make the model more comfortable than others. Thus, it comes with a comfortable and plush headband which makes for more comfortable use.

It also comes with the new Focus-A earpads that improve your comfort level. These earpads are made of a leatherette and velour padding combo. The result is a pair of headphones that not only feel great but also provide a better seal around the headphones and improves the sound isolation while reducing sound leakage.

Apart from that, the Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX also comes with a detachable, short cable. We love this because it allows you to move around and play your guitar without getting in the way. Portability is not the strong suit of the Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX as it is fairly bigger than what is now found in most headphones. Nevertheless, the size comes with advantages.

Sound performance is impressive across genres. The sound here is cleaner than what you’d find from earlier iterations from the manufacturer. However, the bass is not as deep or much on this unit as it was with the older version. In our opinion, these headphones offer some of the best overall quality on the market today and are an excellent pick for audiophiles on a budget.

The large design of the Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX means that it has one of the quickest responses when tones are rapidly played. You can thus add plenty of bass using an equalizer with minimal distortion. We are enamored with the brand and this product. The sturdy build ensures that you will get years of use out of the model.

What I don’t like

The low cost comes with several problems in the build quality. For one, this isn’t the best headphone for vocals. It is also not a portable option.

Best Budget (Open Back): AKG Pro Audio K240

The AKG Pro Audio K240 are the cheapest headphones on this list. They come in an open-back design, which has advantages and drawbacks. If you do not plan on spending a fortune on a pair of headphones, then you will be pleased to know about these.

The build and design of these headphones are rather old and gives off vintage vibes. Considering the price, it isn’t much of a surprise that AKG hasn’t paid very much attention to how it appears. Nevertheless, we liked the color combination of the headphones. Away from the color of the AKG Pro Audio K240, we enjoyed using this due to the open-back design.

The open-back design is excellent if you are listening to music in a quiet environment like the studio, however, if you are using it on the train or somewhere noisy, you would have a torrid time. The sound leaks out, and there isn’t any noise isolation worthy of note.

These headphones come with an all-plastic build. This has pros and cons. An advantage of this build is certainly the lower price. It also feels comfortable to wear. The downside is that it is not very durable. Models with metal parts offer more durability. As for comfort, these headphones come with earcups that are uniform.

The open-back design allows for better breathability and will improve your comfort even if you wear them for a long time. The left cup comes with an input for the 3.5mm cable. There is also a ¼” adapter that comes in handy when you want to use the guitar amp.

The aforementioned cable feels pretty solid and will likely last for a long time. As the AKG Pro Audio K240 are wired, you can play FLAC files and other lossless versions.

Sound quality is an important aspect of your headphones, and the dynamic drivers on the AKG Pro Audio K240 are quite accurate within the range. While sound isolation is nearly zero with this model, you will have a good listening experience if you use it in a quiet environment. Clarity is decent considering the cost of these headphones.

What I don’t like

As expected with open back headphones, there is no noise isolation. The soundstage is also surprisingly narrow for open back headphones. Plus, the build quality is mediocre – expected at this price point.

Best Studio Monitors: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is one of the most popular headphones on the market for the high precision it offers. Of all the headphones that we tested, this model has the best high precision monitors and is one of the best options for your guitar amp. Playing your guitar through an amp is a great way to make and enjoy your music. However, you might have roommates or neighbors that complain about all that loud music. If you still want to enjoy playing through an amp, then the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is one of the best options that you have right now.

When you remove these from the box, you can see that they will last and are made from good quality parts. It looks and feels solid while remaining lightweight. The design is quite compact, and since it can be folded, you can move around with the headphones without much fuss.

These headphones are some of the most popular options on the market and feature in several lists of the best headphones money can buy. The closed-back design allows you to hear the best sounds from your guitar.

Performance-wise, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is better than any other model made by Audio-Technica. The soundstage is impressive. For example, the mid-range gives you clear, warm, and rich sound. It is complemented by a powerful extended bass. Additionally, treble is also quite pleasant on these headphones. Overall, the sound performance is great. Unlike with several other headphones, we didn’t notice any popping, hissing, or distortion with these headphones.

One of the advantages of the closed-back design is that there is minimal sound leakage. Therefore, even people that are beside you will not hear whatever you are playing on the headphone.
It is a versatile model that supports a variety of frequency ranges and definitely one of the best for your guitar amp.

What I don’t like

There are some drawbacks to the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. One of the major downsides is the lack of soundstage effect, which affects the bass delivery. Another minor complaint is that they tend to run hot – you’ll start sweating in warm weather in no time.

Best for Guitar Amps: Sony MDR7506

Next up is the best headphones for guitar amps that we could find – Sony MDR7506. The Sony MDR7506 doesn’t look like much. It doesn’t come with a trendy, modern design like that found on several of the options on the market. However, this isn’t too surprising considering that Sony has used this design for a long time. We don’t exactly have any reservations about the look, although we recognize that others might. Personally, we enjoy the vintage design that will appeal to a certain set of people.

Apart from that design, the Sony MDR7506 is loved for almost everything else. These headphones are highly versatile. The build quality is one of the best at this price point, even though it might not appear to be solid. If you are often on the move, you’ll appreciate that these can take a beating without any damage.

The closed-back design that prevents sound leakage. Apart from being durable, these headphones are lightweight, compact, and foldable. Therefore, they stay out of the way when you aren’t using them. Additionally, Sony has provided a carrying case to keep them safe and aid portability.

The performance of these headphones is what really matters, so how do the Sony MDR7506 fare? Excellently! These are versatile cans that can help with studio monitoring and playing guitar apps.

It has a sound impedance of 63 Ohms which makes it a solid choice for studio use and for your guitar amp. The 40 mm drivers and neodymium magnets contribute to the rich, expansive sound that you get from this model.

For the price, you will not find a better pair of headphones with a mid-range frequency response as good as that found on the Sony MDR7506. Overall, these deliver a beautiful range of sounds that you’ll love.

What I don’t like

As this is a budget level pair of headphones, some of the build quality is an issue. For example, the hinges are made of plastic. Additionally, the cable is non-detachable.

Most Versatile: beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO

The last option on this roundup is the highly versatile Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80. Beyerdynamic is hands-down one of the most popular makers of headphones. The company has spent over 9 decades in the business and is admired by audiophiles around the world for the high quality, yet affordable headphones that it produces. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 is not an exception and comes with plenty of useful features that you would certainly enjoy.

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 comes with the trademark design and build of budget headphones from the manufacturer. They look premium and are very hardwearing. The shells are made of high-grade plastic and will survive bumps and fall without plenty of damage.

Other parts of the headphones contribute to the comfort you’ll experience. For instance, the shells measures under 105 mm and are genuinely circumaural. They come with velour cushions that cradle the ear and will have you comfortable even after prolonged use.

Headbands sometimes cause discomfort, but that is not an issue here. It is stable and comfortable on your head. Since you can expand and retract it, you can wear it despite your head size. While the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 doesn’t look as sleek as more expensive models, that is merely a matter of taste. One of the best things we love about these headphones is that most of the parts can be replaced.

The sound is great on this model. It comes with an 80 Ohm impedance, which means that it plays louder than older models. It sounds even better when used with a guitar amp. The soundstage is decent, although highs are emphasized and can leave you with a shrill ring. They are bass-heavy, though, so you should keep that in mind as you think of buying these headphones.

What I don’t like

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 comes with a cable that is just shy of 10 feet. Therefore, it can get in the way as you play and isn’t exactly designed for smartphone use. It also is bulky and isn’t portable.

Over to You

Finding the right headphones for your amp can be a massive challenge. Hopefully, our pick of the best headphones for amps will help you zero-in on the right option.

For more recommendations and advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to me here.

Check our other recommendations

• If you need an audio interface for your headphones, choose from our top picks
• If you want monitors, see our favorite studio headphones here
• Want to bump up your sound quality? Switch to a DAC instead

References:

• Audio Technica (Official website)
• Sony Audio (Official website)
• Drop.com
• beyerdynamic (Official website)
• Sennheiser Audio (Official website)

Drum alone to your favorite tracks with the best headphones for electronic drums.

If you’re playing electronic drums, you need headphones.

Sure, you can hook them up to some monitors but you most likely choose electronic drums to minimize noise, not increase it.

Given the importance of headphones to your entire electronic drums setup, I would urge that you don’t skimp on this purchase. Bad headphones paired with a top-of-the-line Alesis or Roland kit will sound like a disappointment.

It doesn’t help that drums are tough to EQ. You need a strong low-end (obviously). But you also need great treble performance given the way cymbals behave, especially on electronic drums.

Throw in the fact that you also need good noise isolation and comfort – for the sake of your ears as well as your neighbors/family/roommates – and you have a tough ask when buying headphones.

Which is why I put together this guide. I’ll cover the best headphones for electronic drums for different budgets and needs below. Pick the one that describes your requirements best and start drumming!

The 7 Best Headphones for Electronic Drums

Here are my picks for the best headphones for electronic drums on the market right now:

Perfectly suited for DJs and drummers, the Sennheiser HD 25 is a great product with excellent audio quality and a very practical design. The HD 25 is a version specially designed for the 25th anniversary of the brand. For an under 200 price, here’s a product with a simple but elegant design, incorporating all the acoustic know-how of Sennheiser.

I really like the style offered by this model. Both simple and stylish, this is personally what I often expect when trying out headphones or earphones. The headset can be connected using a cord that can be plugged into the right or left earpiece, depending on what suits you best. And there are very soft pads that are positioned directly on your ears (supra-aural type). On the two arches, there is a relatively thick padding ensuring perfect comfort at the level of the skull.

To manage the size of the headset, the headphones can slide directly along the hoop. The arc can lengthen or retract. The headband itself is relatively flexible, and the earbuds can be swiveled to free one ear at any time.

The headset is offered with only a 3.5mm jack cable. There’s the absence of a second one that can integrate a microphone and a remote control. However, there’s an adapter for stereo devices and a zipped carrying pouch. Also, note that the pads can be removed and replaced.

The sound is dynamic and precise. Everything is well balanced between the different tones and offers a truly faithful rendering. The pads provide excellent insulation against external noise. It is, therefore, great for audio professionals who wish to have precise sound without being disturbed by surrounding noise. So, whether you want to make your mixes, or if you are into sound recording, this is perfectly suited for you.

What I don’t like

If you’re used to modern headphones, the HD25 can feel a little cheaply built. Some users have also reported sound shorting issues with a few units. Additionally, while the bass and highs are great, the mids are a bit muted.

Best In-Ear Monitors: Shure SE215-CL

Just above the SE112, the SE215 is the entry-level in-ear device and is the first in-ear monitor from Shure. This model incorporates a single transducer per earpiece and is rather reserved for professional use. After use, the Shure SE215 can be housed in the hard case supplied along with the rest of the tips, which can be attached using the small carabiner.

Remember that the in-ear monitors are intended for the stage. Their frequency response is therefore logically designed to offer a high cut, that is to say, a very strong treble attenuation.
The SE215 offers a nice stereophonic width and a good separation of the sound sources. However, the feeling of space could have been sublimated with a better response in the highs and extreme highs.

Passive isolation is another strong point of these in-ears monitors. This makes it easy to cut out surrounding sounds, even in noisy settings or places. Finally, another excellent point is the almost zero distortion level. This lets you have a very clean sound reproduction even at a higher listening level.

Shure offers optional and complementary accessories to the SE215. Among them, an adapter kit including an airplane adapter, a volume attenuator, and an adapter to 6.5 mm jack. The manufacturer also offers various end pieces as well as a replacement cable.

What I don’t like

If you are looking for accessible in-ear monitors, the Shure SE215 may be a good choice for you. They offer good reproduction, excellent insulation, low distortion, and comfortable feeling. However, I would have preferred better fidelity and responsiveness of the bass.

Best for Noise Isolation: Direct Sound EX-29

The Direct Sound EX-29 is a sound and isolation headphone that is ideal for musicians and recording studio engineers. When testing Direct Sound’s so-called “isolation” headphones, the main concern is whether their 29dB of attenuation really works and whether their sound quality will make them useful. However, I found the surprise in two fold. They sound really good, defined, neutral, and flat.

It captures voice or instruments in the foreground. You will no longer hear the clapperboard, or whatever you use as a guide, through the microphone, and it will guarantee a purer sample.
If you need to check some details with headphones, while mixing with your monitors, its isolation will help you avoid having to lower the volume of the main system.

Drummers and guitarists, mainly, will no longer have to put the headphones at full speed to guide themselves during the performance. The isolation of the EX-29 is such that it favors lowering the volume of your headphones without disturbing the external volume of your instrument.

Study-protected, as its isolation is passive, you will not need to be connected to use its “isolating” function. You will be able to spend hours in front of the instrument. It doesn’t matter how noisy it may be. The headphones, therefore, provide good hearing health for students suffering from hearing fatigue.

The device has a 3.5 mm stereo jack with a 6.3 mm adapter. It has 500mW-rated input power with 1000mW maximum. The device weighs 326 grams with cable and connector.

What I don’t like

The pair of headphones is made of cheap plastic materials. And while you would think this will mean the headphone will come at a low price, you’re in for a rude shock! Even though it has excellent noise-isolating features, I’d prefer investing in a product that wouldn’t break apart in the event of a fall.

Best Budget Headphones: Koss QZ-99

As befits Koss products, these headphones also look massive. The closed shells feature a large brand logo in a characteristic light color. On one of them, there is a knob to adjust the volume level, thanks to which you do not have to move from your chair to increase or reduce it. The function of passive noise reduction are excellent cushions made of artificial material, in which I think some delicate sponge was placed. Thanks to this, the Koss QZ 99 headphones literally suck on the ears without discomforting them. They perfectly reduce unnecessary sounds coming from everywhere.

You’ll not have the impression that the headphones are about to slip off your heads. Additionally, the earcups are lined with a special sponge, the task of which is to filter noise.

A certain novelty in it is the signal switch – mono and stereo on the cable. Indeed, a useful feature of the Koss QZ 99 headphones is the soft and smooth sound, focused on the mid-frequency range. The presence of low tones is mainly noticed in the background of the music scene.

The treble was omitted, along with the unwanted distorted sounds. The elements necessary to properly perceive the full scale of the sound were also removed. It was undoubtedly done consciously, carefully analyzing the possible consequences.

What I don’t like

The headphones literally “suck” on the ears, giving a quite tiring feeling. Also, the headphones are not loud enough. This could have been a much bigger issue if not for the passive noise-canceling ability of the device.

Best Earphones: Sennheiser IE60

Sennheiser is undoubtedly a flagship brand of Hi-Fi headphones. It was, therefore, to be expected that they would develop a range of quality entries like the Sennheiser IE60 from the IE series.

Sennheiser is used to beautiful packaging and never budges. From the unboxing emerges an impression of quality. After opening, you’ll find in the bundle the headphones, an aluminum box, three pairs of tips, a cleaning utensil, and a clip for the cable.

The IE6s are supplied with cable conductors which clip onto them and guide the cable, which passes over the ear. The IE does not go very deep in the ear, it is an advantage for comfort, but it loses quality in terms of isolation.

Sennheiser engineers had to work long hours on this device. Designed in plastic and aluminum, it is remarkably compact; no space remains unused. Everything has its exact place – tips, cleaning tool, headphones. A magnet is positioned at the bottom of the sliding part allowing to keep the box closed without anything apparent.

What I don’t like

It is difficult to say the sound of the IE60 is exceptional. Yes, the bass is there, the treble too. Still, between the two, there is a large hole, very empty.

Most Affordable Headphones: Monoprice Premium Hi-Fi Dj

If you are looking for good headphones for a comfortable price, give the Monoprice Premium a try. Now, Monoprice is not a brand that we usually associate with audio quality. But you can know how good these headphones sound at their low price. They offer great performance when compared to much more expensive alternatives from more established manufacturers.

The cables are often the accessories that tend to get damaged first in headphones. However, it is great that the 8323, despite the low price, comes with two cables (one extra long) and a 1/4″ adapter. The audio quality is very similar to the Sony MDR-XB920, which cost 3-4 times more; that is, there’s an emphasis on low sounds, without sacrificing mid or high tones. They are not the most balanced headphones, but for those who like powerful bass, without losing clarity in the rest of the tones, the Monoprice is excellent.

It is easy to buy a high-end headset at a high price. However, this task is much more difficult with a limited budget. Aside from its low ability to reduce ambient noise, it is arguably the best cheap headphones in the world.

The best on-ear headphones should be the most comfortable and versatile in your collection. They must produce good quality sound with your 16bit/44.1KHz Hi-Def audio sources streaming on Spotify. And they must do so without sacrificing any audio frequencies produced.

While checking out this model, I realized that there are only a dozen headphones that can fulfill these functions (the Status audio CB-1 comes to mind, as does the Sennheiser HD201 and Audio-Technica ATH-M20X). However, the Monoprice 8323 Hi-Fi DJ Style is the cream of the crop. It is a bit cheaper than the others, but it has excellent audio quality compared to its price. Balanced and powerful, the Monoprice 8323 is the epitome of the title “Affordable Headphones”

What I don’t like

You’d have to be careful while using this device if you want to keep it for long. This is because the Monoprice is made of plastic. It does not stand out much for its appearance, but they are incredibly resistant and durable. They were also quite comfortable, even after wearing them for several hours.

Best Multi-Purpose Headphones: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Headphones deliver impressive sound quality that is very detailed and consistent. The construction is very clean and well finished. With a comfortable design, they can be worn for long hours. A multipurpose headphone, this is probably one of the best deals in the headphone market today.

There are two thick pads on the headphones, which can simply rotate along 2 axes to fit the shape of your head best. They can also fold flat.

In terms of weight, the headphones weigh around 290 grams. This does not make it an exceptionally light model; however, it is not a heavy model. The comfort level for this circum-aural headphones is, however, great. Be careful, though, like most of these headphones; it will tend to get a little hot on sunny days.

Even though Audio Technica’s headphones don’t include an external noise reduction system, the pads do a good job here. They allow you to isolate yourself from the surrounding world properly. However, it remains certain that headphones such as the Beats Studio 2013 or the Bose QC15 will isolate better. But here is a pair of headphones intended for indoor use. There’s also an adapter to connect the ATH-M50 directly to your Hi-Fi system.

In addition to its solid design, the main advantage of the M50 is its sound quality. These headphones offer very well balanced sound and impressive detail. The bass is powerful without being exaggerated. I did different tests with many styles of music, and I was surprised by how Audio Technica’s headphones sounded regardless of genre. There is not much to complain about the audio quality. You could easily compare this headset to some big names offered at 2 or 3 times its price. The sound is rich and well detailed, but most importantly, it doesn’t feel like it’s locked in your head.

What I don’t like

There’s no built-in microphone for making phone calls in this. The design is also not very optimized, so you could simply store them on the go. I also don’t like the fact that the cable is not detachable.

Over to You

There are few situations where headphones have a bigger impact on your experience than when playing electronic drums. Use this guide to help you buy the best headphones for electronic drums you can find on the market right now.

For more recommendations and advice, don’t hesitate to reach out to me here.

Also Read:

• Our favorite studio headphones regardless of budget or platform
• For budget buyers, here are our top studio headphones under $100
• Need headphones for regular drums? Check out our top picks here

References:

• Shure (Official website)
• Audio Technica (Official website)
• Sennheiser (Official website)
• Koss Headphones (Official website)