We’ve come across many producers that prefer using headphones as their main tool for making creative and mix decisions, despite the fact that this is a somewhat controversial viewpoint. Headphones are necessary for evaluating stereo picture, low-end, and fine detail inside a mix regardless of how you want to work. The same as choosing speakers, choosing
Sennheiser HD-206
The Sennheiser HD-206 are a great pair of affordable studio headphones that have been around for a while, but their overall performance is anything but budget-friendly. They’re great for use in the studio, plus they’re incredibly light, comfortable, and durable for those extra long days of recording and mixing. Our mid-priced and mid-range pick has to be the B&W PX580.
The choices become a little trickier as you climb the pricing scale. The Focal Listen Professional is our top option for anyone with a little extra money to spend, which we are happy to do. We doubt you’ll find a better set of studio headphones for the same price that have a better pedigree (Focal is one of the most well-known monitor makers out there). They are also competitively priced.
AKG K712 Pro
Despite being an undervalued option, these headphones are among the best mastering headphones available. The cost is little greater than the majority of the items on this list, but it is totally justified.
These cans have a truly enormous soundstage. Your mix’s previously perceived closer elements will now appear to be much farther away while still sounding clear and detailed. The bass is present without being intrusive, and the highs are pleasant.
We advise you to test them out before purchasing, though, to make sure they’re the correct fit for you as the sound characteristic could take some getting used to.
Sony MDR-7506s
The Sony MDR-7506s is a contentious option. Many people consider them to be the industry standard for mixing headphones, while others dismiss them as junk and go on. Our opinion falls somewhere in the middle.
It’s crucial to understand that these headphones’ original purpose, back when radio was at its height, was to pick out inconsistencies and problems in speech broadcast equipment.
They are therefore not ideal to mix with even if they have undoubtedly endured the test of time. However, they are ridiculously cheap and indestructible.
These are probably the simplest to locate if you’re interested in owning a set of industry standard cans.
Samson SR850
For their versatility, the Samson SR850 Semi Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones are quite inexpensive.
They have a respectable fit and feel and are cozy for extended use. As they are worn more frequently, headphones lose their initial tightening sensation.
The best of both worlds is available with these semi-open-back headphones. For mixing, they are open-back, while for mastering, they are closed-back. Due to the half open-back design, there may be some slight sound leakage, but considering the excellent overall sound quality of these headphones, you won’t even notice it.
The SR850 has a very accurate bass response. These headphones considerably reduce the deep bass, but this is to be expected with headphones with semi-open backs. The lead instruments and singers appear to be there and audible in the middle, which is startlingly accurate.
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro Headphones boast a substantial design, a wide soundstage, and remarkable clarity. For those looking for high-end mixing and mastering headphones, their stunning highs, tight bass, and detail retrieval make them an outstanding value.
They are sturdy and comfy, and the design allows you to change the ear cushions and headband padding as necessary. The open rear of the headphones’ earcup forks and driver grills are both composed of metal.
Additionally, the ear cushions and headband were expertly created. The comfortable leather headband aids in distributing the headphones’ weight evenly across your head.
Shure SRH1840
One of the best open-back headphones available is the Shure SRH1840 Professional Open Back Headphones. They have a balanced, neutral sound profile with excellent sound quality and a wide frequency response.
The profile of these headphones is attractive and understated. The striking stainless steel grills and aluminum alloy yoke say much about the robustness of these headphones. The high gloss silver coating around the drivers adds a touch of brightness to an otherwise dull appearance.
The headphones have a sturdy construction and a soft, adjustable headband. Shure has given these high-end headphones careful consideration in terms of presentation and durability, as evidenced by the extra wires and ear cushions that are included in a reliable carrying case.
In order to create the appropriate audio in a studio, a good headset is really helpful. The ideal pair will rely significantly on your studio set-up. We covered a variety of headphones with varying specs in our review. We hope that this article has assisted you in identifying the top headphones for mixing and mastering.
