15 Best Studio Headphones For Recording And Mixing in 2020

studio monitor professional headphones

Maximum user asks this question and User is feeling confused “Which brand is the Best Recording Headphones?” Because of thousands of models are available in the market. When you buying it always requires a lot of consideration and need deep digging investigation.
Therefore we Best10Top track the best Recording Headphone. This content helps to find the best Closed Back/open back and Semi-Open-Back studio recording headphone. [Differences Between Open-Back and Closed-Back]

We will give you a rundown of the best quality studio headphones on the market, taking into consideration factors such as usage, sound quality and of course the price.

If you want to know more than jump to our Buyer guide

Type Of Headphone

1. Closed Back Headphones are used for recording tracks
2. Open Back Headphones are used for mixing
3. Semi-Open-Bacisre a hybrid solution you can use for both recording and mixing.

There are two main kinds of over-the-ear headphones: Open-Back and Closed-Back. Each offer benefits and each has few drawbacks.

3 Type Of Over The Ear Headphones

Top 5 Close-Back Headphones

Top 5 Open-Back Headphones

Best 5 Semi-Open Headphones For Recording

01. Sennheiser – HD 380 PRO – Top Over-Ear Headphones

These headphones feature an extended frequency response with an increased sound pressure level of up to 110dB for accurate sound reproduction. The folding design and carrying case provide easy portability.

The HD 380 Pro provides an extended frequency response with increased sound level for accurate sound reproduction in all kinds of demanding use.

Feature & Specification

• Sennheiser Professional Monitoring Over-the-Ear Headphones.
• 3′ single-sided, coiled cable with 3.5mm jack connector
• Screw-type 1/4″ jack adapter with Carrying case
• Provides a secure, comfortable listening experience due to lightweight yet sturdy construction.
• Up to 32dB helps block distracting ambient noise.
• Reduce comb filter effects and distortion.
• 8Hz -27 kHz frequency responses for reproducing a wide range of audible frequencies.
• 110dB sensitivity for powerful sound.
• 54 ohms impedance to efficiently conduct power.

02. Sony MDR-7506 Quality Mixing & Recording

The Sony MDR-7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone is a large diaphragm foldable headphone designed for professional studio and live/broadcast applications. This large diaphragm, foldable headphones feature a rugged construction, a secure, highly effective closed-ear design, and a 40-millimeter driver unit for clean, clear sound reproduction.(review)

Feature & Specification

• Closed-ear design The design ensures comfort and reduction of external noise.
• Neodymium magnets and 40mm drivers For delivering powerful, clear, high quality and detailed sound.
• Included storage case to offer protection and a safe storage for the headphones when they are not in use.
• This large diaphragm, foldable headphones feature a rugged construction, a secure, highly effective closed-ear design.

03. Shure SRH 1540 Closed-Back

The SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Headphones feature an expansive soundstage for clear, extended highs and warm bass. Developed with aluminum alloy and carbon fiber construction, the lightweight and durable design also features Alcantara ear pads for maximum sound isolation and comfort. An included storage case, replacement set of ear pads, and an additional dual-exit cable ensure years of uninterrupted listening enjoyment.

Feature & Specification

• 40 mm neodymium drivers deliver superior acoustic performance for an expansive soundstage with clear, extended highs and warm bass
• Closed-back, circumaural design rests comfortably over the ears and reduces background noise
• Lightweight construction featuring aircraft-grade aluminum alloy yoke and carbon fiber cap for enhanced durability
• Steel driver frame with vented center pole piece improves linearity and eliminates internal resonance for consistent performance at all listening levels
• Ergonomic dual-frame, padded headband is lightweight and fully adjustable for hours of listening comfort
• Oxygen-free copper cable (OFC) with Kevlar reinforced jacket for superior performance and durability
• Dual-exit cables with gold-plated MMCX connectors provide secure connection and detachability for easy storage or replacement
• Replaceable ear pads made with Alcantara and low density, slow recovery foam for exceptional comfort
• Additional cable, replacement ear pads and zippered storage case included for years of listening enjoyment
• Legendary Shure durability to withstand the rigors of everyday use.

04. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80

Beyerdynamic has been making headphones since the 1930s and has gained a reputation as one of the best and most trusted audio companies in the world.

In fact, this German company is so widely respected that their DT 770 Pro 80 ohm studio headphones have seen and survived the birth of worldwide phenomena such as Twitter, Instagram, the iPhone (or any smartphone), or even Kim Kardashian’s career…

These DT 770’s, however, haven’t just been in production for over 12 years, they’ve been one of the most popular pieces of studio equipment over that time frame too, with good reason. 

Feature & Specification

• Closed, diffuse-field studio headphone, Bass reflex technology for improved bass response
• Made-in-Germany with 2-year parts and labor warranty
• Comfortable fit due to rugged, adjustable, soft padded headband construction
• Robust, easy serviceable construction as all parts are replaceable
• 2-year manufacturer warranty only when purchased from an authorized Beyerdynamic dealer.

05. ATH-M50X Close Back

As the most critically acclaimed model in the M-Series line, the ATH-M50 is praised by top audio engineers and pro audio reviewers year after year. Now, the ATH-M50x professional monitor headphones feature the same coveted sonic signature, with the added feature of detachable cables. From the large aperture drivers, sound isolating earcups, and robust construction, the M50x provides an unmatched experience for the most critical audio professionals.

Critically acclaimed M-Series professional monitor headphones deliver accurate audio and outstanding comfort, perfect for long sessions in the studio and on the go. Contoured earcups seal tight for excellent sound isolation, with minimal bleed. And the pro-grade materials are durable, yet comfortable. Find out why online reviewers, top audio engineers, and cult followers agree, M-Series is an unmatched combination of audio and build-quality that gets the job done.

Feature & Specification

• Critically acclaimed sonic performance praised by top audio engineers and pro audio reviewers
• Proprietary 45 mm 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° swiveling earcups for easy, one-ear monitoring, professional-grade earpad and headband material delivers more durability and comfort. Detachable cable

6 To 10 Open Back Headphone

06. Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro Open Back

The DT 990 PRO is an open dynamic headphone for studio applications. Due to a weight reduction of the diaphragm an excellent sound reproduction quality is achieved. Its rugged design with a spring steel headband ensures a secure fit and withstands all demands. Soft headband and ear cushioning systems ensure a high comfort over long periods of time.

Feature & Specification

• Open diffuse-field studio headphone
• 250 ohms
• Professional version of the many times awarded “DT 990”
• Extremely lightweight diaphragm for superb impulse performance
• Excellent sound reproduction
• Robust, easy serviceable construction as all parts are replaceable
• 0 m (9.8 ft.) coiled cable (single-sided)
• Velour Ear Pads for luxurious comfort

07. AKG K701 Open-Back

One of the best over ear headphones on the market is AKG K 701 studio reference. AKG earned recognition as the first manufacturer to apply flat wire technology in the design of premium studio quality headphones. AKG is regarded as the one of the best in over-ear headphones manufacturing and is the masters of providing sound that has brilliant highs along with very deep bass for headphones.

Feature & Specification

• Precision detail resolution from unique aluminum voice coil drivers
• Lightweight comfortable fit and highly durable construction
• Replaceable earpads for extended product life
• Painstakingly engineered & manufactured
• Free AKG 2-year manufacturer’s warranty

08. HD 600 Sennheiser

It has been 17 years since the Sennheiser HD 600 was released in 1997, and today it is still considered among the most important and best sounding headphones in the world. Find out why audiophiles cling to this now-classic technology.

From the first days of its launch back in 1997, the Sennheiser HD 600 was controversial. There was endless debate about its features and about how good it really was. Everyone admitted that it sounded great. But audiophiles are nothing if not nitpicky, and many nitpicked about so many aspects of the HD 600.

Feature & Specification

• ¼ and ⅛ inch stereo jack plugs
• High-quality open metal mesh grilles deliver extremely transparent sound
• Computer optimized magnet systems minimize harmonic and intermediation distortion
• Extremely lightweight aluminum voice coils ensure excellent transient response
• Neodymium ferrous magnet systems ensure optimum sensitivity and an excellent dynamic response
• Exceptionally natural, spatial and accurate sound
• Detachable, Kevlar reinforced, OFC copper cable
• Peace of mind – thanks to the 2-year international warranty
• Lightweight aluminum voice coils ensure the excellent transient response.
• Neodymium ferrous magnets maintain optimum sensitivity and excellent dynamics.
• Sophisticated design, elegantly finished in black and gray.
• High-quality open metal-mesh earpiece covers
• Detachable, Kevlar-reinforced oxygen-free-copper cable with very low handling noise

09. PreSonus HD7 Open Back

The HD7 headphones from PreSonus provide high-quality audio in a durable and affordable design. The headphones feature high-resolution neodymium drivers and precision-tuned acoustic chambers to deliver crisp, detailed audio with a wide frequency response and extended bass performance. The rugged construction is designed to withstand the rigors of professional use.

The headphones feature a self-adjusting headband and thick on-ear cushions to provide a snug and comfortable fit with the perfect amount of pressure. The cushions also help to block out unwanted environmental noise. The single-sided cable is 8.2′ long to provide plenty of slack, giving you the freedom to move about your workstation or console. The 1/4″ stereo plug lets you connect to a variety of professional audio devices.

Feature & Specification

• Professional monitoring headphones
• High-resolution neodymium drivers
• Precision-tuned acoustic chamber
• Extended bass response
• Built tough to withstand abuse
• Auto-fit head pads
• Comfortable and long-lasting ear pads
• 98-inch/2.5 meter, single-side cable
• Optimized pressure

10. Sony MDR-7502

The MDR-7502 is an over-the-ear closed back professional headphone that delivers clear, high-quality sound reproduction. The headphone features gold connectors, an oxygen-free cord, 30mm driver units and a frequency response of 60Hz to 18kHz.

Feature & Specification

• 30mm driver unit
• Closed-ear design
• Stereo uni match plug
• Gold Connectors and OFC Cord
• Plug: Compatible with 1/4″ and 1/8″ equipment
• Gold Connectors and OFC Cord: Reliable and stable signal connection and transmission
• Headphone Type: Dynamic, closed
• Magnet type: Neodymium
• Impedance: 24 ohms
• Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW.
• Weight: 5.1 ounces
• 60-18kHz Impedance
• 24 Ohms sensitivity
• 100dB/mW power handling
• Cord length: 6-1/2′

11 to 15 Best Recording Headphones

11. Beyerdynamic DT-990-Pro

Since 1924 Beyerdynamic has remained a German family-owned company committed to continuous research and innovative developments for the audio market. All over the world, Beyerdynamic is known for the use of the latest technologies and a high-quality standard.

The DT 990 PRO 250 by Beyerdynamic is an acoustically open dynamic headphone of exceptional quality, suitable for the most demanding monitoring and studio applications. The reduced weight of the diaphragm and moving coil results in the similar pulse characteristic as electrostatic headphones. The carefully tailored frequency response offers a natural and balanced sound.

Feature & Specification

• Open, dynamic headphone
• Wide frequency response
• 3-dimensional sound
• Rugged headband construction with replaceable headband pad
• Soft earpads with viscose
• Single-sided coiled cable with gold-vaporized stereo jack plug
• Easy servicing – all parts replaceable

12. AKG K 240 MKII

The K 240 MK II is a newly updated version of AKG’s most successful headphones with Varimotion technology and XXL transducers. The K 240 MK II’s semi-open ear cups have around-the-ear coupling to deliver solid bass, accurate mids and crystal-clear highs. Thanks to its lower impedance and improved sensitivity, it can be used with low-output audio sources to deliver its incredible sound. The detachable OFC cable has gold-plated plugs for optimum audio quality and exceptional ease of service. [Review]

Feature & Specification

• Sensitivity levels are set at 91 dB
• Frequency response rate is between fifteen Hz and twenty-five kHz
• The impedance level is set at 55 ohms
• The cable is detachable for ease of use and has 99.99 percent oxygen free copper in its construction
• The connectivity type is wired
• It has patented Varimotion speakers, which give it very detailed and crisper audio quality
• It has a one-quarter inch adapter and standard 3.5-millimeter jack to be compatible with many different audio devices, along with a stereo mini plug.
• It’s acoustic ventilation give you clear and uncluttered sound quality.
• One year warranty on it.

13. Sony MDRV6

With fantastic audio quality for a low price point, the Sony MDR-V6s are great studio monitors for the music hobbyist or student who isn’t ready to shell out several grand for a setup at home. These headphones have been around for a long time, and it’s easy to see why. Read the feature below.

Feature & Specification

• For monitoring your recordings and high-fidelity listening
• Circum-Aural design reduces noise from the outside world
• Oval ear-pads for extra isolation
• 40 MM diameter drivers provide superb dynamics and deep bass down to 5 Hz
• Oxygen-free copper Litz cord for maximum conductivity and minimum noise
• Comfort and Portability
• Folding design for compact storage and easy portability
• Rugged design for heavy-duty use
• Headband: Wide, adjustable, single, folding ear-cups
• Cord Length (Approx):10 ft (3.0m)
• Frequency Response: 5Hz – 30,000Hz
• Sensitivity (dB): 106dB/mW
• Magnet: Neodymium
• Power Handling Capacity: 1.0W
• Impedance:63 ohms

14. Sennheiser HD202

The Sennheiser HD 202 II is average-at-best. They deliver a decent sound and won’t be too distracting to the people around you because of their relatively low leakage. However, they feel cheaply made. They have no audio controls and do not block much noise, which is not ideal for commuting or traveling.

Feature & Specification

• Closed, dynamic, semi-circumaural stereo headphones
• Earcups can be removed from the headband
• Specially designed damping material ensures powerful bass response
• Lightweight turbine diaphragms for low bass
• High levels and crisp bass for modern rhythm-driven music
• Extremely comfortable to wear due to ultra-lightweight
• Design, even for extended listening, Replaceable leatherette ear cushions
• Built-tough with a 2 YEAR warranty!
• Powerful neodymium magnets and lightweight
• Convenient belt clip for adjusting the cable length when listening on the go.
• Cable length: 9.8 ft. (3 m)
• Ear coupling: On-the-ear, Frequency response: 18Hz – 18kHz
• Jack plug: 3.5 / 6.3 mm stereo, Nominal impedance: 32 Î

15. Audio-Technica ATH-M30x

One of the best features of the M30x headphones by Audio Technica is the ability to collapse. It also comes with a nice little pouch to put them in (it is cloth, we recommend going for a harder shell if you want some more security). The only thing you’ll be lacking is being able to take the cable out of the bottom, which you can easily wrap around the headphones themselves instead.

Feature & Specification

• Drivers 40 mm
• Magnet type: Neodymium
• Frequency response 15,000 to 22,000 Hz
• Maximum Input 1,300 mW (1 kHz)
• Sensitivity 96 dB
• Voice coil Copper-clad aluminum wire
• Impedance 47 ohms
• Weight 7.8 oz (220g)
• Cable 3.0m straight (left-side exit)
• Comes with a pouch and 6.3 mm screw-on adapter.

Best Over Ear Headphones – Buyer’s Guide

Pros Of Close Back

• Best isolation for noisier environments
• Can be enjoyed at lower/safer volume levels
• Music won’t be easily heard by others nearby
• Enhancement of lower-level frequencies
• Readily available across a wide range of prices

Cons Of Close Back

• Music is often ‘colored’ by reflections
• Overall clarity/accuracy can be diminished.
• Soundstage seems less open/airy
• Music is more “inside your head”
• Ears can end up hot/sweaty over long periods of use.

Pros Of Open Back

• Allows better situational awareness
• Soundstage is more open/airy and natural
• Minimal reflections to color or affect accuracy/clarity of sound
• Music envelops the user, akin to stereo speakers
• Ears won’t get so hot/sweaty
• Readily available across a wide range of prices

Cons of open back

• Least amount of isolation from surrounding environments
• Volume used to compensate for noise can reach unsafe levels
• Music leaks, easily disturbing those nearby.
• Lower-level frequencies can seem less intense.