What Are the Best Studio Headphones for Music Producers?
This is a post about which headphones you should get if you want to make music, and yes, some of them are pricey. I’ll share my experiences with various models over the years, but - spoiler alert - if there's one takeaway, it's this: the best headphones you can use are the ones you have at your disposal. Don’t wait for fancy gear before getting creative. That said, once you have some money to spare, good headphones are probably the first place you’ll want to invest. Having the right headphones can make a world of difference because they’re your direct connection to the music. Sure, good studio monitors are great, but in an untreated room, they can be tricky to rely on. That’s why investing in a good pair of cans can be so rewarding. Whether you’re mixing, mastering, or just getting your ideas down, the right headphones can definitely help you elevate your sound to the next level. To help you choose, I’ve broken down the best options for music producers into three key categories: Studio Monitoring Headphones, Open-Back Headphones, and Wireless Studio Headphones. Which one is right for you? Let’s find out.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.
These Are the Best Studio Headphones for Musicians:
Studio Monitoring Headphones
Open-Back Headphones
Wireless Studio Headphones
Closed-back Headphones
Closed-back headphones are designed with sealed ear cups that focus sound directly into your ears while blocking out external noise, making them ideal for environments like commuting, studio recording, or office listening. Although they may emphasize bass frequencies more than open-back headphones and can cause some discomfort around the ears during extended use, they’re better at preventing any unwanted noise from leaking into your microphone when recording.
1. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a favorite among producers for a reason. Known for their durability and excellent sound isolation, these headphones provide a detailed and accurate sound that’s perfect for both mixing and producing.
The M50x’s over-ear design ensures that no outside noise interferes with your listening experience, allowing you to focus entirely on your music. The swivelling ear cups and detachable cable make them versatile and convenient, whether you’re in the studio or on the go. These are a studio staple and a great value overall.
2. Sony MDR7506
A classic in the world of audio engineering, the Sony MDR7506 has been another studio staple for decades. These headphones are renowned for their clear, crisp sound and reliability. The MDR-7506 offers a flat response, ensuring that you hear your mix as accurately as possible.
They’re also lightweight and foldable, making them easy to transport. For producers looking for a no-nonsense, industry-standard pair of headphones, the MDR-7506 is an excellent choice.
I have yet to find a Sony product I don’t absolutely love.
3. Rode NTH-100
The Rode NTH-100 is a relatively new entry into the market but has quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional sound clarity and comfort. Rode products are always a great value, and you feel like you’re paying for quality where other companies make you pay for a brand name. (Yup, I’m looking right at you, Beats by Dre.)
These headphones are designed with precision in mind, offering a flat frequency response that makes them perfect for mixing. The memory foam ear cushions and adjustable headband ensure comfort during long studio sessions, making them a solid choice for producers who spend hours perfecting their mixes.
Open-Back Headphones
Open-back headphones allow air to flow through the ear cups, providing a natural and clear sound ideal for critical listening and mixing in quiet environments. However, they offer little isolation, meaning they don’t block out external noise and leak sound, making them unsuitable for noisy environments and some recording scenarios (especially tracking vocals and quiet instruments). While they deliver superior audio quality, open-back headphones are more delicate and require careful handling. They’re also usually more comfortable.
1. Sennheiser HD 600
The Sennheiser HD 600 is a legendary set of open-back headphones that has been trusted by audiophiles and professionals for years. Known for their precise sound reproduction and wide soundstage, the HD 600s are perfect for mixing and mastering.
They’re also very neutral and “flat,” which means they provide an accurate representation of your mix, allowing you to make critical decisions with confidence. The lightweight design and plush ear cushions also make them ideal for extended use. It’s like having your head hugged by two pillows.
For a slightly more “hyped” sound, you might want to consider the also excellent HD 660S2.
2. Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X
With their updated driver design, the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X is designed for critical listening and mixing, providing a detailed and spacious soundstage.
The open-back design ensures that the sound is natural and airy, which is perfect for mixing in a controlled environment.
These headphones are also incredibly comfortable, with soft ear pads and an adjustable headband that make long sessions less fatiguing. They’re also a little more affordable than Sennheisers!
3. AKG K240 MKII
If you’re on a tight budget but still want the benefits of open-back cans, the AKG K240 MKII is a versatile pair of open-back headphones that offers great value for money. They provide a balanced sound with a wide frequency range, making them suitable for both mixing and mastering.
Technically they are semi-open headphones, but they will essentially give you the same listening experience as open-backs, at a fraction of the cost. The K240 isn’t as robust as other models, but they’re a great value nonetheless!
Wireless Studio Headphones
Wireless and noise-canceling headphones have come a long way, offering the convenience of mobility without sacrificing sound quality. These headphones are perfect for producers who need to move around the studio or work in different environments while still maintaining a high level of audio fidelity. With features like Bluetooth connectivity, minimal latency, and long battery life, wireless headphones are becoming an increasingly popular choice for modern music production, although you must consider a few factors before buying them.
1. Sony WH-1000XM5
When I travel or want to work in cafes, this model is my go-to. The Sony WH-1000XM5 is a top-tier wireless headphone that’s perfect for producers who need both convenience and quality. Known for their exceptional noise-canceling capabilities, these headphones allow you to focus on your music without distractions. Seriously, it’s some black magic type stuff.
The sound quality is excellent, with a well-balanced frequency response that works well for music production. That being said, the sound isn’t the most transparent, and the Bluetooth connectivity introduces a latency that will make them pretty unusable for composing. You can plug them in with a 3.5 mm cable, which is included, which removes all latency.
2. Aiaiai TMA-2
The Aiaiai TMA-2 is a modular headphone system that offers a unique combination of customization and wireless functionality. Producers can choose different components, such as drivers, ear pads, and headbands, to tailor the headphones to their specific needs. The modular design also means you can easily replace parts, ensuring a long lifespan for your headphones.
The big plus with these is that the wireless version of the TMA-2 delivers high-quality audio with minimal latency, making it suitable for both casual listening and serious production work. If wireless connectivity is essential for you, these are the ones to get!
The Best Headphones Are the Ones You Have
While investing in high-quality headphones can make a difference in your music production, it’s important to remember that you don’t need fancy gear to start making great music. The best headphones are the ones you already have—whether they’re cheap Sony in-ears (which I’ve used for years and still love), wired Apple Airpods, or any other pair you use in your everyday life.
When you’re just starting out, learning the craft of music production is more important than having the most precise and detailed headphones. In fact, using the headphones you’re already familiar with can actually be an advantage. You already know how music is supposed to feel on them, even if they’re not studio-grade. This familiarity can help you better judge how your tracks will sound to the average listener and make sure everything is where it needs to be.
Even seasoned pros understand the value of listening back to their mixes on cheaper headphones or speakers. This practice can reveal flaws that high-end studio headphones might mask, such as harsh frequencies or imbalances that could slip through unnoticed. After all, most people will listen to your music on streaming platforms like Spotify, often through inexpensive earbuds or smartphone speakers. Ensuring your music sounds good on these everyday devices is just as important as how it sounds on professional equipment.
So, don’t wait for the perfect gear to start creating. Use what you have, learn how to make it work for you, and refine your sound as you go. The journey of music production is about continuous improvement, and sometimes, the simplest tools can be the most effective.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you purchase through these links at no additional cost to you.