Studio Headphones: What to Look for and Top Picks

As a music producer, DJ, or sound engineer, you know how important it is to have the right pair of studio headphones. The right pair of headphones can make all the difference in how your music sounds, and can also impact your comfort and productivity during long sessions. In this article, we will discuss what to look for in studio headphones and provide you with some top picks to consider.

Types of Studio Headphones

Before we dive into what to look for in studio headphones, it’s important to understand the two types of headphones available: closed-back and open-back.

Closed-back Headphones

Closed-back headphones have cups that seal around your ears, creating an isolated listening environment. This design is ideal for recording because it prevents sound from leaking out of the headphones and into the microphone.

Open-back Headphones

Open-back headphones, on the other hand, have cups that do not fully seal around your ears. This allows for more natural sound, but it also means that sound can leak out of the headphones and into the microphone. Open-back headphones are typically used for mixing and mastering, where a more natural sound is desired.

What to Look for in Studio Headphones

Now that you understand the two types of headphones available, let’s dive into what to look for in a pair of studio headphones.

Frequency Response

Frequency response is the range of frequencies that the headphones can reproduce. The wider the frequency response, the more accurate the headphones will reproduce the sound. Look for headphones that have a frequency response between 20Hz and 20kHz, which is the range of human hearing.

Impedance

Impedance is the resistance that the headphones offer to the electrical signal coming from the audio source. A higher impedance requires more power to drive the headphones, so it’s important to match the impedance of the headphones with the output of your audio source.

Sensitivity

Sensitivity is how loud the headphones can get for a given input level. Look for headphones with a sensitivity between 100 and 110 dB SPL/mW, which is a good range for studio headphones.

Closed-back or Open-back

As we discussed earlier, closed-back headphones are ideal for recording, while open-back headphones are better for mixing and mastering. Decide which type of headphones will work best for your specific needs.

Comfort and Durability

Finally, make sure the headphones are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and that they are built to last. Look for headphones with adjustable headbands and ear cups, and with a build quality that will withstand frequent use.

Top Picks for Studio Headphones

Now that you know what to look for in studio headphones, here are some top picks to consider:

Sennheiser HD 650

The Sennheiser HD 650 is a popular choice among music producers and sound engineers. They have a wide frequency response, high sensitivity, and a comfortable, open-back design.

Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is another excellent choice for studio headphones. They have a wide frequency response, high sensitivity, and a durable design.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a versatile pair of headphones that are great for a variety of applications. They have a wide frequency response, high sensitivity, and a closed-back design for recording.

Sony MDR-7506

The Sony MDR-7506 is a classic pair of studio headphones that have been popular for years. They have a wide frequency response, high sensitivity, and a closed-back design for recording.

AKG K240 Studio

The AKG K240 Studio is a great value for a pair of studio headphones. They have a wide frequency response, high sensitivity, and a semi-open design for a more natural sound.

Conclusion

Choosing the right pair of studio headphones is essential for music producers, DJs, and sound engineers. It’s important to consider factors like frequency response, impedance, sensitivity, and closed-back or open-back design. Our top picks for studio headphones include the Sennheiser HD 650, Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, Sony MDR-7506, and AKG K240 Studio.

FAQs

1. What is the difference between closed-back and open-back headphones?

• Closed-back headphones have cups that seal around your ears, creating an isolated listening environment. Open-back headphones, on the other hand, have cups that do not fully seal around your ears, allowing for a more natural sound.

2. What is impedance?

• Impedance is the resistance that the headphones offer to the electrical signal coming from the audio source.

3. What is sensitivity?

• Sensitivity is how loud the headphones can get for a given input level.

4. Are open-back headphones better than closed-back headphones?

• It depends on your specific needs. Closed-back headphones are ideal for recording, while open-back headphones are better for mixing and mastering.

5. What are some top picks for studio headphones?

• Our top picks for studio headphones include the Sennheiser HD 650, Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, Sony MDR-7506, and AKG K240 Studio.