15 Best Studio Headphones For Mixing In 2024 [Pro-Level Sound]

When achieving the perfect harmony in your music, the tools you use can make or break your final product.

This is especially true for headphones, as they are our windows into the sonic world we create.

As such, selecting the best studio headphones for mixing & recording becomes an essential task that requires careful thought and consideration.

This isn’t a simple task to undertake—countless brands on the market offer various key features and specifications that cater to diverse needs and preferences.

Still, worry not, fellow audiophiles! I’m here to provide a well-curated list of top contenders that will be reliable tools for your craft.

Allow me to take you on this sonic journey—it’s time we explore the realm of high-quality audio together.

All About Studio Headphones

In the realm of audio production, studio headphones hold a position of irreplaceable significance.

They play a pivotal role in helping you to create a sonic masterpiece. Through these headphones, an artist or producer can dissect the minutest details from each channel and ensure that every beat and harmonics blend smoothly into the final mix.

To quickly differentiate between typical and studio headphones, it’s worth noting that they are explicitly engineered with enhanced features tailored toward professional audio production.

They house advanced drivers capable of reproducing sounds across a broader frequency spectrum with higher accuracy than regular headphones.

the Role of Studio Headphones in Mixing & Recording

One must hear the raw, uncolored sound within each track for the music creation process, such as mixing and recording.

Here comes into play the role of studio headphones. They provide an intimate listening environment that helps evaluate intricate details in your mix—information that might otherwise be lost on regular speakers or typical consumer-grade headphones.

Differentiating Between Typical Headphones and Studio Headphones

While typical consumer earpieces are designed for casual listening – enhancing specific frequencies to make the audio sound more appealing – studio headphones take a different approach.

They strive for what is known as flat frequency response, meaning they reproduce sounds without coloration or distortion across all frequency ranges.

This allows producers to hear their tracks precisely as they are—helping them make informed decisions during the mixing and mastering stages.

The fact that these distinctions exist is enough reason for anyone professionally involved in music to consider investing in high-quality studio-oriented headsets over their consumer-grade counterparts.

Also Read: Studio Recording and Podcasting [How To Get Started?]

Things to Consider While Purchasing Studio Headphones

Before making a purchase, it’s essential to consider several factors to ensure that your studio headphones fulfill your specific needs and budget.

Budget considerations, comfort & fit, and sound quality & frequency range are vital in shaping your decision. Let’s delve deeper into these deciding factors:

Budget Considerations

Budget becomes one of the primary considerations while purchasing studio headphones.

You don’t want to break the bank, yet ensuring high-quality performance is critical in professional settings.

The price range for studio headphones is vast and varies primarily based on their brand, type (open-back or closed-back), and the quality of materials used.

While you can find some exceptional models in the economical range, a higher price often signifies superior sound reproduction and more durable construction.

Decide on an amount you’re comfortable spending before starting your search, making the selection process far less complicated.

Comfort and Fit

An equally important factor is the comfort and fit offered by the headphones. As sound mixing or recording sessions can often span hours, comfort becomes non-negotiable over long periods of use.

Consider headphones with an adjustable headband or rotating ear cups for added versatility in fit.

Adequate padding on ear cups ensures comfort and assists with noise isolation—ensuring you can focus solely on your music.

Additionally, while most professional-grade headphones come with an over-ear design for better noise isolation, some might prefer on-ear models for their lightweight feel—choosing between these largely depends upon individual preference.

Sound Quality & Frequency Range

The ultimate determinator of a good pair of studio headphones is their sound quality & frequency range.

Flat frequency response renders accurate audio reproduction—it’s fundamental when evaluating your mixes critically.

Look out for headphones that offer a wide frequency range, allowing you to hear more detail within your recordings.

Also, consider the impedance of the headphones—higher-impedance headphones require more power to deliver high audio levels but often offer better sound quality.

Ensure your audio gear (like audio interfaces or headphone amplifiers) can provide the necessary power.

Choosing studio headphones is a significant decision—while specific preferences may dictate which model you lean towards, considering these factors should guide you toward making a wise purchase.

What fits comfortably, sounds best to your ears, and meets your budget criteria is ultimately the best choice.

Also Read: Studio Headphones Vs Studio Monitors 2024 [Mixing With Both]

15 Best Studio Headphones for Mixing & Recording

Delving into the countless options available can be both exciting and daunting.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into the first two of our top 15 picks for the best studio headphones for mixing and recording.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50 has long held a reputation for being one of the best studio headphones in the market—considered by many as the industry’s gold standard.

These over-ear, closed-back headphones are known for their exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range, with deep, accurate bass response.

Features:

• The proprietary large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets deliver exceptional sound clarity and a wide frequency range.
• The circumaural design contours around the ears provide excellent sound isolation in loud environments.
• The earcups can swivel 90 degrees for easy one-ear monitoring.

In addition to its impressive audio performance, the ATH-M50 features a professional-grade ear pad and headband material, providing superior durability and comfort for extended use.

Sony MDR-7506

Another outstanding pair of studio headphones is the Sony MDR-7506. The headphones have been around for decades and remain popular among audio professionals due to their accuracy, durability, and comfort.

They have a closed-back design that helps keep out external sounds and prevents headphone bleed when recording.

Features:

• The 40mm neodymium drivers provide detailed, balanced sound reproduction.
• A wide frequency response of 10 Hz to 20 kHz ensures you hear every detail in your mix.
• The closed-back design offers excellent isolation, which is critical for tracking sessions or broadcasting atmospheres.

The Sony MDR-7506 provides clear highs, present mids, and an extended low-end — a pure representation of your mix, whether you’re tracking in studios or mixing on the go.

Both these models come with a sturdy protective carrying pouch or case and are collapsible or fold-up designs for easy portability – convenient if you are a traveling professional.

beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO

Famed for their exquisite quality and comfort, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO studio headphones have been longtime favorites in recording studios worldwide.

Exemplifying remarkable detail and vibrant soundstage, these closed-back, over-ear headphones create an exclusive private listening environment.

Features

• The enclosed design provides excellent sound isolation for pristine audio playback.
• The 5 Hz to 35 kHz frequency response guarantees a high-resolution audio experience.
• The 80-ohm impedance makes it perfect for studio and stage recordings.

With comfy velour earpads and a rugged adjustable headband, they offer hours of continuous listening without any discomfort.

Whether tracking a band or mixing yourself, the DT 770 Pro provides unparalleled comfort and precise sonic detail.

beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro

In contrast to the closed model above, we have the open-backed beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro.

Adored by track masters globally, these headphones are known for their three-dimensional sound reproduction—reliably delivering crisp highs, balanced mids, and well-defined bass.

Features

• The open-back design ensures natural ambient sound representation.
• The comprehensive frequency response (5 Hz -35 kHz) exposes every nuance of your mix.
• The robust spring steel headband guarantees durability and fit.

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is superior to the spatial representation of the stereo image – possessing an excellent spaciousness that’s both transparent and harmonious.

Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

Next in line is the venerable Sennheiser HD 280 Pro. A closed-back design offers solid passive noise isolation, making it an excellent choice for tracking vocals or instruments in the recording studio and equally fit for critical listening.

Features

• Closed ear design provides excellent sound isolation for mixing and tracking.
• The linear frequency response (8Hz – 25kHz) presents accurate sound reproduction.
• Extendable and replaceable parts enhance longevity.

Known for their comfort, durability, and ability to deliver high-quality clear audio—the HD 280 Pro headphones are ideal companions for professional tracking and mixing sessions.

AKG K240 Studio

The last of the bunch is the semi-open AKG K240 Studio. Famous in music production, these deliver a wide dynamic range, increased sensitivity, and high sound pressure levels perfect for studio use.

Features

• Semi-open air design provides a solid bass range and pronounced highs.
• The comprehensive frequency response (15 Hz – 25 kHz) maintains excellent sound resolution.
• Varimotion 30mm XXL transducers increase sensitivity.

The AKG K240 Studio’s advanced technology and its durable construction have made it an industry leader in studio headphone performance. It is undeniably a go-to tool in any music producer’s arsenal.

beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro

Professional mixing and recording won’t seem daunting with the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro headphones.

These semi-open-back headphones stand out with their spacious soundstage and detailed sound reproduction, making them an excellent choice for critical listening applications.

Features

• Sound Quality – The high impedance (250 Ohms) delivers long-lasting, clear, high-resolution sound.
• Build & Comfort – The robust spring steel headband provides a secure fit, while the soft adjustable earcups guarantee hours of comfort.
• Technology – The headphones are made in Germany and built with high-quality materials and meticulous workmanship.

These headphones are a favorite in studio settings and living rooms worldwide, owing to their detailed sound quality and comfort.

Shure SRH440

The dependable and versatile Shure SRH440 offers professional-grade, closed-back quality that lends itself well for home or studio recording and general listening.

With a frequency response from 10 Hz to 22 kHz, you will love its overall balanced audio performance.

Features

• Sound Quality – The optimized impedance ensures universal compatibility with virtually any audio device.
• Build & Comfort – The collapsible design with detachable cables provides compact portability.
• Extras – Includes threaded quarter-inch adapter, replaceable ear cup pads, and carrying bag.

For those looking for reliable performance on a budget, Shure’s SRH440 is undoubtedly worth considering.

Shure SRH1540

The premium quality of the Shure SRH1540 proves that Shure isn’t just about microphones.

These headphones are designed for professional use in studio environments and offer an entire soundstage with rich bass, clear mids, and extended highs.

Features

• Sound Quality – The 40mm neodymium drivers deliver superior acoustic performance for an expansive soundstage.
• Build & Comfort – Built with lightweight yet durable aircraft-grade aluminum alloy yokes and carbon fiber cap for enhanced durability.
• Extras – Includes a replacement set of Alcantara ear pads and storage case.

These headphones provide exceptional comfort and superb sound quality, catering to the needs of the most demanding professional recording and mixing applications.

Sennheiser HD 650

The open-back design of the Sennheiser HD 650 headphones gives you a natural listening experience.

Known for their accurate, transparent sound, they offer impressive harmonic distortion.

Features

• Sound Quality – Hand-selected matched driver elements highly optimized magnet systems for minimizing harmonics and intermodulation distortion.
• Build & Comfort – Lightweight aluminum voice coils ensure excellent transient response. Specially designed elliptical ear cups to fit your ears naturally.
• Extras – Titanium finish looks great on anyone.

These headphones can produce high-quality, detailed sound across a broader range than most other models within their price category. They might be your next secret weapon in the recording studio!

beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro

A force to be reckoned with among studio headphones is the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro.

These are open-back headphones that seem crafted with meticulous attention to detail.

Main Features

• The headphones feature Tesla technology drivers, known for their detailed and precise sound reproduction.
• An expansive frequency range from 5–40000 Hz ensures you hear every minor detail in your audio mix.
• The open-back design provides a highly spacious, detailed soundstage, allowing you critical precision while mixing or mastering tracks.

These Beyerdynamic cans are highly robust and durable with replaceable parts – perfect for long, intense mixing sessions.

They include two velour ear pads with different sound characteristics (analytical and balanced) to suit your listening style.

Moreover, it also comes with two cables – straight and spiral, adding to its versatility.

Sennheiser HD 600

As an industry stalwart, the Sennheiser HD 600 is revered by many audiophiles and professionals alike.

These dynamic open-back headphones offer a sophisticated sound quality that is hard to match.

Key Features

• Equipped with advanced diaphragm design that eliminates standing waves, resulting in clean sound free from distortions.
• A frequency response of 12–40500 Hz ensures authentic music reproduction across all frequencies.
• Lightweight aluminum voice coils ensure excellent transient response for precision during mixing or mastering.

The Sennheiser HD 600 stands out further due to its classic marble finish and exceptional comfort level thanks to the adjustable padded headband and elliptical-shaped ear cups that follow the shape of human ears.

Samson SR850

For those on a budget, the Samson SR850 proves that affordable doesn’t have to mean cheap.

These semi-open headphones are known for their superb sound quality and comfort.

Standout Features

• With a comprehensive frequency response of 10-30000 Hz, they deliver a balanced sound across all frequencies.
• The significant 50mm drivers offer a precise stereo image with excellent depth and detail.
• The semi-open design provides an extensive sound stage with tight and articulate bass.

The Samson SR850 won’t strain your wallet or your head much thanks to its self-adjusting headband, which offers an optimal fit for extended listening sessions.

Audio-Technica ATH-M40x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is lauded for offering professional-level performance at a much more accessible price point.

Primary Features

• Equipped with significant 40mm drivers with rare earth magnets providing exceptional audio clarity.
• Their comprehensive frequency response from 15–24000 Hz ensures you don’t miss out on elements in your mix.
• Its circumaural design provides excellent sound isolation in noisy environments.

These headphones come with two detachable cables – coiled and straight, providing flexibility depending on your working environment.

Additionally, they have robust construction and collapsing ear cups, enhancing durability and portability, respectively.

Also Read: Open Back Vs Closed Back Headphones 2024 [Which One Is Best]

Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x, another entry by Audio-Technica, gives you a taste of the company’s lauded M-series at an entry-level price.

Key Features

• Equipped with large 40mm drivers made from rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils gives you best-in-class audio quality.
• A frequency response in the 15-20000 Hz range produces solid bass and exceptional high-frequency response.
• Its circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation.

Although they don’t come with detachable cables like their predecessors, the ATH-M20x offers remarkable value for money and a solid introduction to studio headphones.

It is an excellent choice for anyone freshly stepping into the studio scene.

FAQs About Studio Headphones

Conclusion

Choosing the best studio headphones for mixing and recording depends on personal preference and individual needs.

You can rely on their proven track records for high-quality audio performance regardless of which model you choose, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50 or the Sony MDR-7506.

You must ensure that your chosen pair provides comfort, durability, sound clarity, and accurate frequency response to help you create a perfectly balanced mix.

Investing in high-quality studio headphones is essential to achieving sonic excellence in your audio production journey.