When it comes to audio mixing, the right headphones can greatly impact the quality of your work. With numerous options available, it’s essential to find the best headphones for mixing. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, the specific features and factors of these headphones can elevate your audio game.
Let’s take a look at the top 8 headphones worth your attention and why they stand out in the world of audio mixing.
These headphones are carefully crafted to meet the demands of audio mixing, providing accurate sound reproduction and comfort for extended use. By choosing the right pair, you can take your audio mixing to the next level.
Key Takeaways
- The Sony MDR7506, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, Sennheiser HD 600, and Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO are top choices for mixing professionals.
- Open-back headphones like the Sennheiser HD 600 provide natural sound reproduction, while closed-back headphones offer better isolation.
- Consider compatibility with devices and build quality, including versatile connectivity options and sturdy construction.
- Sound reproduction is crucial, with custom-matched drivers, neutral tuning, and spacious soundstage for accurate audio reproduction.
RØDE NTH-100 Professional
- Professional over-ear headphones ideal for content creation, music production, mixing and audio editing, podcasting, location recording
- Custom-matched drivers deliver an incredibly accurate frequency response and state-of-the-art acoustic design optimised for exceptional detail and clarity
- Luxurious Alcantara earcup and headband cushions for supreme comfort – highly breathable, very soft and extremely durable
- Revolutionary CoolTech gel integrated into the earpads absorb and dissipate heat, actively cooling your ears to reduce fatigue during long sessions
- Removeable cable with locking connector and dual-sided attachments – position the cable where best suits you and your setup
Looking for headphones to use when mixing? The RØDE NTH-100 Professional Over-ear Headphones are a great choice. They come with custom-matched drivers that provide accurate frequency response and enhanced detail, making them perfect for content creation, music production, and audio editing.
These headphones have Alcantara earcup and headband cushions for comfort and durability, along with CoolTech gel integrated into the earpads to reduce fatigue during long sessions. The removable cable with locking connector and dual-sided attachments adds convenience and flexibility to your setup.
Users have praised these headphones for their comfort, great sound quality, and suitability for various genres. Some have expressed concerns about the build quality and durability, but overall, the RØDE NTH-100 headphones offer unique design, solid construction, and accurate sound.
If you’re into mixing and audio editing, these headphones are definitely worth considering.
Best For: Content creators, music producers, and audio editors looking for comfortable over-ear headphones with custom-matched drivers and enhanced detail for accurate frequency response.
Pros:
- Luxurious Alcantara earcup and headband cushions for comfort and durability
- Revolutionary CoolTech gel integrated into the earpads to reduce fatigue during long sessions
- Custom-matched drivers for accurate frequency response and enhanced detail
Cons:
- Concerns about build quality and durability
Beyerdynamic Dt 990 Pro
- Open over-ear headphones for Professional mixing, mastering, editing, and listening at home or in the studio
- Perfect for studio applications thanks to their transparent, spacious, strong bass and treble sound
- The soft, and replaceable velour ear pads ensure high wearing comfort
- Hard-wearing, durable and robust workmanship - made in Germany
- The world famous DT 990 Pro headphones deliver unmatched quality in sound reproduction at an incredible price. No matter your application, tracking, mixing, critical listening, even gaming, your DT 990's will deliver sound you can rely on - every time.
The Beyerdynamic Dt 990 Pro Over-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones (80 Ohm, Limited Edition) are ideal for professional mixing and mastering. They offer a transparent, spacious sound and well-balanced bass and treble. These open over-ear headphones provide exceptional sound detail, making them perfect for studio production. The strong bass and treble response deliver a natural sound with a well-tempered bass balance.
Additionally, the soft and replaceable velour ear pads ensure high comfort. This allows for extended mixing and mastering sessions without discomfort. The hard-wearing and durable construction, made in Germany, ensures unmatched quality in sound reproduction at an incredible price.
If you’re looking for headphones that offer excellent detail, comfort, and natural sound for professional mixing and mastering, the Beyerdynamic Dt 990 Pro Over-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones are a top choice.
Best For: Professional mixing and mastering, studio production, and online jamming and singing.
Pros:
- Exceptional sound detail
- Well-balanced bass and treble with natural sound
- High comfort for extended use
Cons:
- Open-back design may not provide sufficient noise isolation
Sony MDR7506 Professional
- Neodymium magnets and 40 millimeter drivers for powerful, detailed sound.Specific uses for product : Professional audio system,Home audio system
- Closed ear design provides comfort and outstanding reduction of external noises
- 9.8 foot cord ends in gold plated plug and it is not detachable; 1/4 inch adapter included
- Folds up for storage or travel in provided soft case
- Frequency Response: 10 Hertz to 20 kilohertz
Designed for sound engineers and music producers, the Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone offers powerful, detailed sound and exceptional noise reduction, making it a top choice for critical mixing and monitoring tasks.
With neodymium magnets and 40mm drivers, these headphones deliver high-quality sound with a wide frequency response, ensuring that every nuance of your audio is captured. The closed-ear design not only provides comfort but also effectively reduces external noise interference, allowing you to focus on the details of your mix. Additionally, the generous headband padding adds to the overall comfort during extended use.
The included 9.8-foot coiled cord and Stereo UniMatch plug offer versatile connectivity options, making it suitable for various applications in recording studios, radio, film production, and more.
With a stellar 4.7 out of 5 stars rating and positive feedback on sound quality and comfort, the Sony MDR7506 headphones have gained strong endorsement from users.
Best For: Sound engineers, music producers, and professionals in recording studios, radio, and film production seeking powerful, detailed sound and outstanding noise reduction for critical mixing and monitoring tasks.
Pros:
- Powerful, detailed sound with wide frequency response
- Outstanding noise reduction with closed-ear design
- Versatile connectivity options for various applications
Cons:
- 9.8-foot coiled cord may be too long for some users
Sennheiser HD 400 PRO
- A professional’s tool with neutral sound reproduction
- Lightweight design for all-day usage
- Single-sided, coiled cable allows freedom to operate. Straight cable included as well for more compact applications
- Angled transducers designed for low distortion at high SPL provide a spacious and accurate soundstage
The Sennheiser HD 400 PRO Open Back Dynamic Headphones (Black) are an excellent choice for audio professionals and music enthusiasts looking for accurate sound and comfort during long mixing sessions. These headphones feature angled transducers designed for low distortion at high SPL, providing a spacious and accurate soundstage.
The single-sided, coiled cable offers freedom of movement, while a straight cable is included for more compact applications. Users appreciate the natural and accurate sound reproduction, lightweight design, and comfort for extended use. Some feedback mentions the tight clamping force and sound leakage as potential drawbacks.
Additionally, it’s recommended to give the headphones at least 3 weeks of continuous use for them to open up. These headphones are well-regarded for their sound quality, instrument separation, and bass performance.
Best For: Audio professionals and music enthusiasts seeking accurate sound and comfort during long mixing sessions.
Pros:
- Neutral sound reproduction
- Lightweight design for extended use
- Angled transducers for spacious and accurate soundstage
Cons:
- Tight clamping force
Apple AirPods Max
- BREATHTAKING AUDIO QUALITY — Apple-designed dynamic driver provides high-fidelity audio. Computational audio combines custom acoustic design with the Apple H1 chip and software for breakthrough listening experiences.
- FOCUS ON WHAT’S PLAYING — Active Noise Cancellation blocks outside noise so you can immerse yourself in music.
- HEAR THE WORLD AROUND YOU — Transparency mode lets you hear and interact with the world around you.
- PERSONALIZED SPATIAL AUDIO — With sound that suits your unique ear shape along with dynamic head tracking, AirPods Max deliver an immersive listening experience that places sound all around you. You can also listen to select songs, shows, and movies in Dolby Atmos.
- ACOUSTIC-FIRST DESIGN — Designed with a knit-mesh canopy and memory foam ear cushions for an exceptional over-ear fit that perfectly seals in sound.
For music producers and audio engineers seeking precision and immersive sound, the Apple AirPods Max provides unmatched audio quality and active noise cancellation.
These headphones feature a sleek stainless steel frame and comfortable ear cushions designed for long listening sessions.
The Apple-designed dynamic driver and computational audio deliver a rich soundstage with deep bass, clear mids, and crisp highs.
The Active Noise Cancellation blocks outside noise, while the Transparency mode allows interaction with the surroundings.
With one-tap setup and up to 20 hours of battery life, these headphones are convenient and reliable for professional use.
Whether in the studio or on the go, the Apple AirPods Max prioritize both audio quality and comfort.
Best For: Music producers and audio engineers seeking precision and immersive sound in a wireless over-ear headphone.
Pros:
- Unmatched audio quality and rich soundstage
- Active Noise Cancellation for an immersive experience
- Comfortable design for long listening sessions
Cons:
- Criticisms of the price
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
- Critically acclaimed sonic performance praised by top audio engineers and pro audio reviewers
- Proprietary 45 millimeter large aperture drivers with rare earth magnets and copper clad aluminum wire voice coils
- Exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range with deep accurate bass response
- Circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments
- 90 degree swiveling earcups for easy one ear monitoring and professional grade earpad and headband material delivers more durability and comfort
Looking for studio monitor headphones that provide exceptional clarity and deep, accurate bass response for mixing and critical listening? The Audio-Technica ATH-M50X headphones in black deliver top-notch sonic performance, praised by audio professionals. They feature 45-millimeter large aperture drivers, rare earth magnets, and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils for outstanding clarity across a wide frequency range.
The circumaural design offers great sound isolation in noisy environments, and the 90-degree swiveling earcups allow for easy one-ear monitoring. These headphones are built for comfort and durability, with professional-grade earpads and headband material. They weigh 10.1 ounces and have detachable cables, making them ideal for professional use.
With a customer review rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 26,013 ratings, these headphones are a great choice for gamers, audio engineers, and professionals seeking exceptional clarity, deep bass response, and comfortable extended wear for critical listening and mixing.
Pros:
- Exceptional clarity and extended frequency range
- Comfortable for extended wear
- Professional-grade construction and durability
Cons:
- Limited noise isolation in low volumes
Focal Listen Professional
- Exclusive cone technology offering acoustic transparency and excellent dynamics.
- Precision and neutrality.
- Total control over the audio spectrum.
- Excellent isolation and optimal comfort.
- Compact, rigid carrying case.
The Focal Listen Professional headphones are perfect for sound engineers, offering exceptional acoustic transparency and precise control over the audio spectrum. These circum-aural closed-back headphones are designed for studio and monitoring applications, delivering excellent dynamics and precision. They feature great isolation and optimal comfort, allowing users to focus on their audio without distractions.
The package includes a compact and rigid carrying case for convenient portability. While some users have mentioned minimal sound leakage and discomfort after extended use, the majority praise the build and sound quality, as well as the hardshell case. Made in France, these headphones are lauded for their natural sound, clean vocals, impressive soundstage, and good bass without distortion. Despite some treble and weight issues reported by a few users, the Focal Listen Professional headphones have received generally positive reviews.
Best For: Sound engineers and music professionals who prioritize exceptional acoustic transparency and precise control over the audio spectrum.
Pros:
- Acoustic transparency for excellent dynamics and precision
- Excellent isolation and optimal comfort
- Compact and rigid carrying case for convenient portability
Cons:
- Minimal sound leakage
Philips Fidelio X2HR
- Hi-res Audio Certified with extended response frequencies
- Engineered double layered ear-shells with pre-tilted speaker plates
- 50 mm high definition neodymium drivers with LMC diaphragm
- Acoustic open-back architecture
- Replaceable deluxe memory foam ear-pads with breathable velour finishing
Are you in the market for headphones that offer an immersive soundstage and exceptional sound quality for mixing and critical listening? The Philips Fidelio X2HR headphones could be just what you’re looking for.
These headphones are Hi-res Audio certified and feature 50mm high-definition neodymium drivers, providing extended response frequencies and a wide soundstage similar to higher-end models. The replaceable deluxe memory foam ear pads with breathable velour finish ensure comfort during long listening sessions. Users have praised the enjoyable sound quality, tonality, and tuning, challenging the idea that expensive headphones are always superior.
Suitable for home studio use, gaming, and watching movies, these headphones are compatible with various devices and don’t require an amplifier. If you value great sound and comfort, the Philips Fidelio X2HR is worth considering.
Best For: Those seeking an immersive soundstage and exceptional sound quality for critical listening, home studio use, gaming, and movie watching.
Pros:
- Hi-res Audio Certified with extended response frequencies
- Wide soundstage comparable to higher-end models
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
Cons:
- Technical flaws
Factors to Consider When Choosing Headphones for Mixing
When selecting headphones for mixing, it’s important to consider factors such as sound quality, comfort for extended use, and the type of headphones that best fit your needs.
Open-back headphones provide a more natural sound reproduction, while closed-back headphones offer better isolation.
It’s also essential to ensure that the headphones are compatible with your mixing devices for a seamless experience.
Sound Quality Importance
When choosing headphones for mixing, sound quality is crucial. Accurate sound reproduction, wide frequency response, and low distortion are essential for identifying and addressing audio imperfections. High-quality headphones provide clean vocals, impressive soundstage, and good bass without distortion, enabling precise audio adjustments. They also offer natural sound and instrument separation, which are vital for informed mixing decisions.
Additionally, headphones with a wide soundstage and comfortable design enhance the mixing experience and reduce listener fatigue during extended sessions. Prioritize sound quality when selecting headphones for mixing to ensure accurate and professional-quality results.
Comfort for Long Sessions
When choosing headphones for mixing, it’s crucial to prioritize comfort for long hours of wearing. Look for adjustable headbands and cushioned ear cups that provide a snug fit without causing discomfort.
Over-ear headphones are generally more comfortable for extended use as they distribute the pressure over a larger area around your ears. Lightweight designs can help reduce strain on your head and neck during prolonged sessions.
Breathable materials and sweat-resistant features are also beneficial for keeping you comfortable during extended use. The more comfortable the headphones are, the longer you can work without fatigue, ultimately improving the quality of your mix.
Open-Back Vs. Closed-Back
When selecting headphones for mixing, it’s important to understand the distinction between open-back and closed-back designs to meet your specific audio production needs best.
Open-back headphones allow sound to escape through the back of the ear cups, resulting in a more natural and spacious sound, making them suitable for mixing and critical listening. They offer a wider soundstage and accurate sound representation.
On the other hand, closed-back headphones keep the sound within the ear cups, providing better isolation and preventing sound leakage, making them more suitable for tracking and recording in noisy environments.
When choosing between open-back and closed-back headphones, consider the acoustic environment, the need for isolation, and the desired sound characteristics, as each design offers distinct advantages and limitations for different audio production tasks.
Natural Sound Reproduction
If you’re trying to decide between open-back and closed-back headphones for mixing, the sound reproduction of your chosen headphones will be crucial for achieving accurate and detailed audio.
Headphones with natural sound reproduction aim to replicate sound as it was originally recorded without adding coloration or altering the frequency response. They often feature custom-matched drivers and neutral tuning, providing enhanced detail, clarity, and a balanced frequency response. Some designs, such as open-back or open-ear configurations, contribute to a more spacious and accurate soundstage.
Comfort and lightweight design are also common in headphones with natural sound reproduction, making them suitable for long mixing and listening sessions. Users appreciate these headphones for their ability to provide clean vocals, instrument separation, and a well-balanced, distortion-free bass response.
Compatibility With Devices
When choosing headphones for mixing, it’s important to consider their compatibility with various devices, such as smartphones, laptops, audio interfaces, and studio equipment. Make sure the headphones work well with different operating systems and audio players to ensure smooth performance across different platforms.
Look for headphones that offer versatile connectivity options, including wireless Bluetooth, wired connections, and detachable cables with different connector types. It’s also important to check compatibility with accessories like headphone amplifiers, DACs (digital-to-analog converters), and audio interfaces if needed, for your setup.
Additionally, consider the compatibility with virtual surround sound, 3D audio, and spatial audio technologies for an immersive mixing and listening experience.
Understanding how headphones work with different devices and technologies is essential for achieving the best audio quality and performance in your mixing endeavors.
Build Quality Durability
When selecting headphones for mixing, it’s crucial to assess their build quality and durability carefully. The headphones should be constructed with sturdy materials like metal components or reinforced plastics to withstand regular use in the studio. Pay attention to the construction of the headband, ear cups, and cable connections to ensure they can endure the demands of mixing and prolonged studio use.
User feedback and reviews are valuable for understanding the actual durability and sturdiness of the headphones over time. Prioritizing hard-wearing and well-constructed headphones will make them a reliable investment for your mixing needs.
Price Vs. Performance
When choosing headphones for mixing, it’s crucial to find a balance between price and performance. You want headphones that accurately reproduce sound and are durable without overspending.
While higher-priced options may have advanced features, not all of them guarantee superior sound quality for mixing. On the other hand, lower-priced headphones may lack some features and build quality, but they can still provide adequate performance, especially for beginners or those on a budget.
Research and reading reviews are essential to find headphones that strike a good balance between price and performance, meeting your specific mixing needs.
Additionally, consider the long-term investment value; while cheaper options may seem appealing, higher-quality, more expensive headphones could prove cost-effective due to their durability and performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Do the RØDE NTH-100 Professional Over-Ear Headphones Compare to Other Headphones in Terms of Durability and Build Quality?
When comparing the Røde NTH-100 professional over-ear headphones to others in terms of durability and build quality, you’ll find that their strong construction and top-notch materials make them a reliable choice for long-term use. These headphones are built to last, with a sturdy design that can withstand daily wear and tear, making them a solid investment for anyone in need of durable and high-quality headphones.
Can the Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone Provide Accurate Sound Representation for Mixing in Various Genres, Such as Hip-Hop or Electronic Music?
The Sony MDR7506 professional large diaphragm headphones can provide accurate sound representation for mixing in various genres, such as hip-hop or electronic music. They offer a balanced sound and are well-suited for critical listening tasks. These headphones are a reliable choice for music producers and audio engineers looking for an accurate and detailed sound profile to ensure their mixes translate well across different playback systems.
How Do the Sennheiser HD 400 PRO Open Back Dynamic Headphones Perform in Terms of Comfort During Long Mixing Sessions?
The Sennheiser HD 400 Pro open-back dynamic headphones excel in comfort during long mixing sessions. Their lightweight design and breathable ear cushions ensure that you can stay focused and comfortable while perfecting your audio.
