10 Best Headphones for Music Production

When producing music is your passion, you need quality headphones that can satisfy your creative aspects.

And for monitoring use, a few extra capabilities, and refinements are required in a headset.

People sometimes assume a standard headphone will go well for critical listening.

But, the truth is you need high-quality studio headphones rather than regular ones.

Studio headsets provide a more accurate sound profile with flat frequency and transparent audio.

They also have a high impedance level that amplifies to best sound and improved clarity.

Now, the problem is there are lots of studio headphones available in the market.

Some headsets can undoubtedly provide impressive sound while a few of them show off but are not exactly a good one.

That’s why I have gathered the ten best headphones for music production to rescue you from getting a low quality headset.

So, without further ado, let’s get into the discussion.

A Comprehensive Review of 10 Best Headphones for Music Production

While coming up with these headsets, I have considered the fund of young producers who started their careers recently.

Therefore, I have listed both expensive and inexpensive headphones for producing and mixing.

You can choose from the affordable ones if you have a limited budget.

Before going into the details, I would like to share a quick overview of my selected headphones.

I know the above pieces of information are insufficient to decide which one will be perfect for you.

Hence, to give you a more precise idea, I will share a broad review of each of them now.

Let’s start with my top rated headphones for musicians.

1. Top Recommendation: Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones

★★★★★

When it comes to excellent performance, Audio-Technica ATH-M50X has gained the trust of audio engineers and musicians.

They didn’t compromise with quality while offering great features at an affordable price.

I know you are impatient to know more, but before that, check their key specs.

Key Specifications

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Color: Black, White, Metallic Orange.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Driver Type: Dynamic.
• Magnet Type: Neodymium.
• Sensitivity: 99 dB.
• Maximum Input Power: 1600 mW.
• Microphone: No.
• Cable Type: Detachable 1.2m – 3.0m coiled and 1.2m straight, 3.0m straight.
• Connector: Gold-plated stereo 3.5mm plug and 1/4” screw-on adapter.
• Voice Coil: CCAW (Copper-clad aluminum wire).
• Weight: 10.1 ounces.
• Item Dimension: 11.4 x 10 x 4.1 inches.

The first thing that caught my attention was their sound.

How can it sound so clear?

Yes, you heard me right.

These headsets have an extended frequency range that can produce deep and accurate sound.

Even the bass response is quite impressive. It is pretty flat and neutral with the right amount of punch and thump.

Their clean sound profile helps you to listen to every detail in the music.

Moreover, the left and right drivers are well-matched, which means you can hear the right direction of voice and instrumental sounds.

Their consistent frequency is why they are suitable for music producers, Live program organizers, DJ, and personal use.

By the by, are you concerned about the sound leakage?

Well, Don’t worry.

They won’t let you down in this regard either. The headset doesn’t leak sound when the volume is at a moderate level.

You shouldn’t raise the headphone volume above 60% as it may cause hearing loss in the long run.

The circumaural design of earcups can isolate mild sounds but not heavy noises.

You can swivel the earcups 90 degrees for one-ear monitoring, which is also convenient for space-saving portability.

I have noticed that some inexpensive headsets give a superb sound performance, but the build quality is awful.

You can guess where they save the money!

However, ATH-M50X isn’t that narrow-minded. It’s built with dense plastic that feels sturdy and durable.

And, of course, they can withstand some accidental drops too.

By now, you may understand why I have given M50X the first place.

They are indeed one of the best headphones for musicians.

Let’s move on to my next headset, which I think is one of the best open-back headphones for music production.

2. Fabulous Musical Representation: Sennheiser Pro Audio HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone

★★★★★

Who doesn’t know the famous brand Sennheiser? They are well-known for making good-quality headphones with a handful of traits.

As for Sennheiser Pro Audio HD 650, this headset is an excellent option for professional studio use and home entertainment system.

Take a look at their key specs to get a precise idea.

Key Specifications

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Color: Gray.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Magnet Type: Neodymium.
• Transducer Principle: Dynamic.
• Diaphragm Size: 38 mm.
• Ear Coupling: Circumaural.
• Contact Pressure: 6.0 N ± 1 N.
• Sound Pressure Level: 103 dB.
• Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.05%.
• Connection Type: 3.5 mm or 6.3 mm stereo.
• Weight: 9.2 ounces.
• Product Dimension: 12.4 x 10 x 4.33 inches.
• Warranty: 2 Years.

These headsets have a highly optimized magnet system that can achieve minimum harmonic and intermodulation distortion.

This is the reason why you will hear sounds exactly how they are.

It also delivers deep bass that can give a great listening experience to the audiophiles.

The mid-range sound is also fantastic, and the response throughout the range is flat and even. And that’s why it gives balanced vocal reproduction.

Some people think that open-back style headphones are not suitable for music listening as they leak sounds.

But, you know what, this headset is what you need for an extended period of comfort.

When you need to focus on your music production, this style lets the air flow inside. As a result, your ear won’t get hot anyway.

Hence, you don’t need to compromise your comfort anymore.

Anyway, can you guess the most surprising feature of these headphones?

Well, it’s their high impedance..

While 20 to 40 ohms is suitable for casual listening, HD 650 has an incredibly large impedance especially appropriate for music producers.

And that’s the reason for them being compatible with a broader range of audio equipment.

Although this headphone is a bit expensive, trust me, your investment won’t go in vain.

These headphones will last for a long time. And you don’t have to buy a new pair from time to time.

Without any doubt, Sennheiser HD 650 is one of the best headphones for electronic music production.

At this moment, get ready to know beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro.

3. Premium Comfort: beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO

★★★★★

DT 770 PRO has three different models based on their impedance.

Among them, the 80 ohms model is the most suitable one for music production.

They have a relatively accurate bass and sound profile for comprehensive applications.

That’s why I have picked this model over the other two.

Have a quick glance at their key specs here.

Key Specifications

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Color: Black, Gray.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Transducer Type: Dynamic.
• Sound Pressure Level: 96 dB.
• Total Harmonic Distortion: <0.2%.
• Ear Coupling: Circumaural.
• Ambient Noise Isolation: Approximately 18 dBA.
• Headband Pressure: Approx. 3.5 N.
• Power Handling Capacity: 100 mW.
• Cable Type: Straight.
• Cable Length: 3m.
• Connection: 3.5mm jack/ 6.3mm adapter stereo.
• Magnet Type: Neodymium.
• Weight: 9.5 ounces.
• Dimensions: 10 x 5 x 8 inches.

As DT 770 has a closed-back design, it will leak less sound than the Sennheiser HD 650.

Thanks to this design, that helps Beyerdynamic to achieve a nearly perfect bass.

However, this headphone is not only great for critical listening, but you can also tune your soundtrack with your bass guitar.

This studio headphone can boast an extremely detailed resolution and clear audio.

Therefore, from music producers to sound technicians, every professional user will be satisfied with this headset.

Another praiseworthy aspect of these headphones is their high-quality build materials.

It has soft velour earpads that ensure long-term ease. Besides, the robust spring steel headband is quite stable and won’t slide off from your head.

Almost every component of this headphone is replaceable except the attached cable.

Note that the headphone is not stable enough for a heavy gym session and only for casual use.

Additionally, this headset has an outstanding soundstage, and you can enjoy every genre of music with them.

Even their spatial reproduction is remarkable while providing great isolation from the outside world.

Oh, I forgot to tell you that you can also use an external DAC or headphone amplifier because of its impedance level.

Since you have known enough about beyerdynamic, I will move to my next studio headphone now.

4. Packed with Good Traits: Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone

★★★★★

Sony MDR7506 is a classic choice for its legendary features.

This is one of the best Sony’s headphones that is being appreciated by recording engineers since 1991.

Have you heard this line? “Old is Gold”

This headset is the exact replication of the above famous quote.

Their key specs are as follows.

Key Specifications

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Color: Black.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Fit Style: Circumaural.
• Driver Type: Dynamic.
• Magnet Type: Neodymium.
• Sensitivity: 106 dB/W/m.
• Power Handling: 1,000 mW.
• Cable Length: 9.8 feet.
• Connector: Gold-plated, stereo unimatch 3.5mm and 6.3mm adapter.
• Weight: 8.1 ounces.
• Detachable Cable: No.
• Dimensions: 7 x 7 x 1 inches.

This headphone is a little bit lighter than my previous DT 770 PRO.

Because of its universal connectivity, you can easily connect this wired headset to your TV and other audio systems.

They have a decent bass that doesn’t overpower the other sounds.

So, you won’t miss any beats while mixing the audio.

On top of that, the large-diaphragm and neodymium magnet is capable of providing an enhanced listening experience.

It’s also a suitable option for monitoring because of the crystal-clear highs, superb mid, and extended low-end.

While it comes to their design, I must appreciate their portability.

As it folds up, you can put them inside your bag and take them everywhere you want.

You may feel the coiled cable a bit heavy, but it provides great movability inside your workroom.

Furthermore, it has a flexible headband. Thus, you can adjust them as per your need.

I have seen that many headsets don’t fit large heads and put pressure on the ear.

But, this headphone does stand out because of their universal fittings.

MDR7506 will always stay as one of my favorite headphones because of its fabulous sound profile along with quality outlook.

Here comes my 5th headset, which has a two-in-one attribute.

5. Enjoy Your Movie to The Fullest: AKG K 240 MK II Stereo Studio Headphones

★★★★

Maybe you are looking for a style that has the benefit of both open and closed types of headphones.

Then, AKG K 240 MK II will surely please you with their combined performance.

Both of their ear cups have breathable uniform vents that will provide ear relaxation.

I will tell you more about this headset but first, see their key specs.

Key Specifications

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Color: Black.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Maximum Input Power: 200 mW.
• Sensitivity: 104 dB.
• Detachable Cable: Yes.
• Cable Length: 3m.
• Connection Type: Mini XLR.
• Connection Interface Finish: Gold.
• Plug: Stereo 3.5 mm with 6.3 mm screw-on adapter.
• Foldable: No.
• Replaceable Earpads: Yes.
• Weight: 8.47 ounces.
• Dimensions: 7.48 x 7.87 x 4.33 inches.
• Fit Style: Circumaural.

Did you notice a difference between K 240 MK II and Sony MDR7506?

Maybe you missed it.

It’s okay, as I am always here to remind you.

The fact is you can separate the cable of AKG MK II but can’t do the same with MDR7506.

Many people believe that semi-open headphones lack clear audio.

Are you concerned about it too?

No! it’s not true. Their design may leak a bit of sound, but they indeed provide a crisp and clean tone.

This semi-open technology is the reason behind their solid bass output and airy highs.

Apart from that, the XXL transducer can transfer accurate signals with a dynamic range.

You can reproduce your recordings without worrying about dropouts of any particular frequencies.

What truly amazed me the most was their soundstage. You can watch movies with it, and the vocal and background music won’t sound mixed up.

Though it has poor noise isolation, the truth is you don’t even need noise-canceling headphones for studio work.

This headphone is not able to block heavy noises like engine sound, airplane sound, etc.

I hope no one inside your workplace makes a huge mess around! And if someone does, show them the door of your room.

I know it seems rude to do but when you are working on an important project, you need to focus on music rather than anything else. 

My upcoming headphone is from Status Audio. See if it is best for music production or not.

6. For Diverse Usage: Status Audio CB-1 Closed Back Studio Monitor Headphones

★★★★

Status Audio CB-1 is a professional standard headset that can deliver music as the producer intended to be heard.

It’s not only meant for studio use but also is suitable for outside too.

After going through their key specs, you will learn more about them.

Key Specifications

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Color: Black.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Sensitivity: 97 dB ± 3 dB.
• Input Power: 1600 mW at 1kH.
• Weight: 13.2 ounces.
• Two Detachable Cable: 1 straight and 1 coiled.
• Cable Length: 3m (both).
• Connector: 3.5mm plug, ¼” adapter.
• Warranty: 1 year.
• Item Dimension: 6.54 x 3.62 x 8 inches.

Audio mixing is one of the most challenging steps in production.

In this process, you need to manipulate and enhance the volume level, dynamics, frequency contents, and panoramic position.

Due to their large driver diameters, you will hear detailed sounds in music and voice-over in films.

So, you don’t have to struggle with your mixing work anymore.

I wish K 240 MK II would have considered having a larger speaker like Status CB-1.

You can also produce music with DAWs (Digital Audio workstations) like Pro Tools, Ableton, and Logic.

While sometimes you face issues with live vocal tracking along with instruments, these headphones will always make sure you don’t miss a beat.

By the way, you can use this headset outside the studio too.

It easily pairs with external DACs and Amps for audiophile playback.

Although these are non-gaming headphones, their expansive soundstage helps you listen to in-game sounds better.

Also, their connectivity is compatible with gaming consoles like PS4, Xbox One, and many more.

It doesn’t come with a mic; hence you can’t play multiplayer games with it.

In case you find an adapter troublesome to use, you may appreciate the OneOdio Studio Monitoring headset.

7. Best Low-Priced Option: OneOdio Wired Over Ear Headphones Studio Monitor & Mixing

★★★★★

These headphones are a game-changer.

This mixing DJ stereo headset offers you powerful bass, crisp high tones, clear vocals, durability, and comfort, everything at an unbelievable price.

I don’t know how they could achieve all the mind-blowing features, but I appreciate all outcomes.

Key Specifications

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Color: Black, Light Blue, Light Pink.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Magnet: Neodymium.
• Detachable Cable: Yes.
• Plug Type: 3.5mm and 6.35mm stereo.
• Cable 1: 3.5mm to 6.35mm coiled (9.8ft).
• Cable 2: 3.5mm to 3.5mm with microphone (4ft).
• Sensitivity: 110 dB ± 3 dB.
• Foldable: Yes.
• Maximum Input Power: 1600 mW.
• Weight: 10.6 ounces.
• Item Dimension: 7.09 x 5.51 x 3.94 inches.

It’s unusual for studio headphones having a microphone. Yet, OneOdio considers this fact and provides a cable that has an in-line mic.

They know that you need to take calls from your loved ones sometimes during your production work. How sweet!

As you are already aware that Status Audio CB-1 doesn’t have a mic, so this headset got a plus point in this matter.

Besides mixing and studio monitoring, you can use it for radio, film production, electronic newsgathering, or any application where high property sounds are required.

If your guitar supports a 3.5 or 6.3 cord, you can practice electric guitar with it.

Furthermore, they have a stylish look with black matte plastic and a glossy finish.

You can wear them often, and they won’t get damaged any soon.

Another notable characteristic is that their smooth ear cushions are designed to give monitoring ease and noise separation.

Their large drivers reproduce all music dynamics and also deliver controlled bass that audiophiles and music producers need.

Shortly, call it a low-budget pick or highly affordable, this headphone can awe you for sure.

Anyway, my later headphone is one of the best Tascam headphones for studio use without any doubt.

8. Enjoy Your Favourite Track: Tascam TH-02 Closed Back Studio Headphones

★★★★

Tascam has caught the attention of users for its recording equipment and tools for music production.

This TH-02 model is one of their best creations in this regard.

It can deliver a clean and balanced sound that fits all music genres. Their pristine highs, low end, and clear mids will surely mesmerize you.

For further details, catch a glimpse of its key specs right away.

Key Specifications

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Color: Black.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Sensitivity: 98 dB ± 3 dB.
• Cable Length: 3m when fully extended.
• Cable Type: Straight.
• Audio Connector: 3.5mm TRS.
• Adapter (included): 6.3mm.
• Maximum Input Power: 600 mW.
• Shipping Weight: 19.2 ounces.
• Dimensions: 7 x 3.5 x 8.5 inches.

Despite coming at a cheap price, TH-02 has a broader frequency response than my earlier OneOdio headphone.

Their no latency wired connection is ideal for watching videos, playing games.

If you have big ears and a large head, the earcups, and headband may not fit you properly.

They have plush ear cuffs, which are rotatable. So, you don’t have to be tense about the flexibility either.

You can freely enjoy listening to your music, track for hours, or perform all night.

When it comes to portability, this headset won’t disappoint you. They have a nice foldable design, and you can take them everywhere you go.

Not only it fits in every recording and performing workflow, but also you can consider it for casual use too.

Still, I am a bit unsatisfied with their build quality, but their overall durability is not that bad for the price range.

It’s not like you are going to play ten-pin bowling with it.

Even if you do, surely you won’t hit a strike!

Joke aside, if you need a combination of cheap prices with decent performance, Tascam TH-02 is indeed one of the best headphones for music production.

Only two headphones are left to discuss.

Keep calm and carry on reading.

9. Cozy for Everyone: PreSonus HD7 Professional Monitoring Headphones

★★★★

When you have a big head, you are indeed an intelligent person.

Yet, finding the right size of headphones becomes a challenge for you.

Luckily, PreSonus HD7 has an ergonomic design that adjusts to any head size.

One of my friends said that it perfectly fits his big head, and the headband pressure was sufficient to make them stable.

For now, see their key specs.

Key Specifications

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Color: Black.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Fit Style: Circumaural.
• Driver Type: Dynamic.
• Magnet Type: Neodymium.
• Sensitivity: 98 dB (1mW).
• Maximum Power: 300 mW.
• Weight: 7.8 ounces.
• Cable: 8′ 2″ (2.5m) straight, single-sided.
• Plug Type: 3.5 to 6.3 mm, screw-on, gold-plated, stereo mini-plug.
• Detachable Cable: No.
• Dimensions: 8.5 x 4.2 x 9 inches.

Did you notice that both PreSonus and Tascam TH-02 have similar sensitivity, impedance, and driver size?

It’s okay if you didn’t.

For me, I like the design of HD7 over TH-02. It looks more sturdy, and the material seems user-friendly too.

You can use them often, and they won’t get damaged soon.

Now, what about the sound? Right.

You can expect a professional-grade sonic performance from these headphones, whether listening for pleasure or tracking and monitoring.

They also used a semi-open chamber to deliver profound low frequencies with a balanced and powerful bass punch.

Nevertheless, some people find the bass way too loud, yet it varies from person to person.

I think that their highs are pretty clean with no harshness, and the mid-range feels natural too.

It has faux-leather earpads that initially feel uncomfortable, but it gets soft after using them a few times.

The ear cushions may get warm after a couple of hours, so I suggest you take a break between works to feel relaxed.

Well, thanks for your patience that we finally reached the last headset for music production.

10. No More Sweaty Ears: Samson Technologies SR850 Semi Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones

★★★★

When I first saw Samson, I was a bit surprised!

How could they look almost identical to PreSonus HD7?

For a split moment, I was confused whether I had ordered the same product accidentally…

After a couple of minutes, I was able to notice a big difference!

I will let you know about it after you check the key specs.

Key Specifications

• Form Factor: Over-ear.
• Color: Black.
• Connectivity: Wired.
• Style: Circumaural.
• Driver Type: Dynamic.
• Magnet: Neodymium.
• Diaphragm Size: 38 mm.
• Sensitivity: 98 dB at 1kHz.
• Connector Type: 3.5mm with 3.5 to 6.3mm adapter, gold-plated.
• Cable Length: 2.5m.
• Weight: 9.7 ounces.
• Dimensions: 8 x 8 x 4.8 inches.

The cushioning of SR850 is velour, while PreSonus has a leather cover.

As this plush material can breathe, your ears won’t get sweaty after extended listening.

That means you can pay more attention to producing music without feeling irritation in your ear.

These studio headphones present listeners with an accurate mid-range, airy high-end, and a pronounced deep low-end.

Also, you can enjoy a dynamic listening experience because of their wide soundstage.

Besides, the authentic sounds make these headsets a perfect choice for musicians, streamers, and podcasters.

Be noted that this headphone is suitable for mixing, monitoring but not for recording.

Another fact that I want to inform you is that, when you listen to music at high volume, it will leak a decent amount of sound.

That’s why you can’t use them while traveling, especially if you do monitoring work in a public place like trains or planes.

Anyway, I have finally finished my long review segment.

Now, tell me, did you decide which one you will pick?

I know all of my mentioned headphones are packed with good traits that you became confused about what to choose.

How about I help you more in this instance.

You already know which one is my top recommendation.

I will refer to another three headphones that are best suited for music production work.

Best Choices

According to the performance, diversity in music, and price, the below three are my best choice.

1. Sennheiser Pro Audio HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone
2. Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
3. OneOdio Wired Over Ear Headphones Studio Monitor & Mixing

All of the above headphones are equipped with extraordinary features, and they do justice to their price range as well.

By the way, how will you know if your selected headset is well-suited for creating music or not?

You will find your answer after going through the following section.

How to Choose the Best Music Production Headphones?

While purchasing a headphone for music production, you should consider the following factors.

Sound Profile

A good studio headset needs to have a flat frequency response with a stereo sound profile.

Flat frequency doesn’t color the sound by artificially boosting the bass and treble.

It also ensures your music will sound the same on the other playback systems of the world.

In general, an ideal pair of headphones should have a frequency range between 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

However, it will be even better to have a more extended range.

Headphone Style

There are three types of headsets: open-back, closed-back, and semi-open.

Open-back has a hole design that allows air to flow to the internal drivers.

They have a natural soundstage, and you will feel like the music is coming from around you rather than just from the speakers.

Because of the hole, the sound will leak a lot, and the other person will hear whatever you are listening to.

On the other hand, closed-back headphones are fabulous for blocking out surrounding sounds.

Usually, they can reduce noise by at least 10 dB.

So, you will be free from unwanted interference and can concentrate on music more.

And there will be not much sound leakage either.

Lastly, semi-open strikes a balance between the other two types.

Their appearance is most likely the closed-back one, but it can pass some air through the earcup.

The audio leakage will be moderate, and the noise isolation can be ok but not as good as the closed-back.

In short, all three styles are excellent, and you can choose from according to your needs.

Ensure the Comfortability

You can continuously mix and record music only if the headphone is comfortable for long hours.

When the headset starts to pressure your ear and head, you will have difficulty concentrating on music.

Therefore, check out if the earpads are soft and the headband has enough padding.

Another vital fact is weight. While the headphone is lightweight, it will reduce user fatigue, which means you will be able to wear them for a prolonged time.

Wired Option is the Best for Music Production

People have mixed opinions on whether the wired headset is appropriate or the wireless one.

But, from my experience, wired headphones provide the best musical outputs.

No matter how great a wireless headset performs, there will be a latency issue, even for a bit.

And you probably know that audio professionals require no latency speed without signal loss that Bluetooth can’t overcome yet.

So, I will suggest you go for wired mode for a better outcome.

The Right Type of Cable

If you prefer portable headphones, then go for a detachable cable.

Yet, it doesn’t matter, and you can pick the attached cable too for indoor use.

But what truly matters is the connection type.

As most audio systems are compatible with a 3.5mm plug with a 6.35mm adapter, you should also check out this fact.

Even all of my ten studio headsets have this type of connector, and you won’t have difficulties connecting them to your system.

Well, that’s all for my guideline section.

I hope it will assist you to find the best headphone for your musical work.

Let’s move to my closing remark.

Conclusion

For every melody producer, music is their life, and the lyrics are their story.

I think you are not an exception.

As you have already learned about my ten best headphones for music production, now it’s up to you to decide which one will be the perfect companion for you.

Finally, I will bid goodbye with a famous quote:

“Music can heal the wounds which medicine can’t touch.”

Frequently Asked Questions: