Top 5 studio headphones currently on the market
The world of studio headphones is vast, with each brand and model having specific tonal differences.
This makes it particularly hard to find a suitable pair for your needs.
Reviews can only tell you so much about a pair of headphones; it’s important to find a pair of that suits your specific requirements – rather than one that sounds good to your ears, especially when recording or producing music.
The most important distinguishing feature between headphones for studio use, is whether they’re open or closed back. Understanding the key differences between the two designs can result in make-or-break for your headphone experience.
Open-back headphones are more likely to give you a greater natural or acoustically accurate response, however because of the nature of the design, they’re not suitable for recording or loud environments – like airplanes.
Closed-back headphones are better suited for producing on-the-go, mixing in live situations and recording applications. However, the stereo imaging or low-end response is more likely to be accentuated on closed-back designs.
Choosing studio headphones will always be a subjective experience but this list may just help make the decision a bit easier…
AKG K240 MK2
What is it:
The AKG K240 MK2 are semi-open, meaning they offer incredibly accurate sound while still maintaining a small amount of isolation. They’re equipped with a large driver which delivers solid, accurate low-end.
Best feature(s):
The optional velour ear-pads make for much more comfortable long listening sessions, the leather often found on headphone ear-pads tends to get sticky during long sessions.
Not so cool:
They’re not the most robust design of headphone on the market, however they are amazing value for money.
Final Thoughts:
The AKG K240 MK2 are my “go to” recommendation, for R1995 you can’t go wrong!
Where to get
Beyerdynamic DT-770 Pro
What is it:
The Beyerdynamic DT-770 Pro are closed-back headphones, these are interesting as they still offer incredibly accurate response considering their design. They come in various resistances to best suit your application – from mobile use to studio use.
Best feature(s):
The Beyerdynamic DT-770 Pro are incredibly comfortable, the large cups and soft ear-pads make for great long listening sessions, with little to no ear-fatigue.
Not so cool:
I personally find the super low-end a bit “hyped”, however they are closed-back so it’s bound to happen.
Final Thoughts:
The Beyerdynamic DT-770 Pro are a fantastic “all-rounder” option, for an affordable price – R2695.
Where to get
Audio Technica ATH-M50x
What is it:
The Audio Technica ATH-M50x are probably the most popular choice on this list judging by worldwide stats. They’re popular amongst producers, gamers and audiophiles as they offer a fairly accurate sound and an incredibly robust build-quality.
Best feature(s):
The ATH-M50x offer swivelling and rotating ear-pads, this makes them a very popular choice amongst DJs looking for high-quality sound, and live performers/producers.
Not so cool:
The Audio Technica ATH-M50x have got a hyped low-end, however due to their popularity – they’re a good reference point to have in studio.
Final Thoughts:
They come with a ton of accessories, from different lengths and styles of cables to spare ear-pads. Another great “all-rounder” and considering they’re built like little tanks they’re very affordable at R3350.
Where to get
Sennheiser HD 380 Pro
What is it:
The Sennheiser HD 380 Pro would be my recommendation to the producer/performer/engineer who travels a LOT. They’re incredibly lightweight but robust closed-back headphones, designed for accuracy in a small format.
Best feature(s):
The Sennheiser HD 380 Pro pack incredibly small and come with a hard case – perfect for travelling.
Not so cool:
I’m not sure if it’s just my large head, they’re not the most comfortable fit for long sessions.
Final Thoughts:
While they’re not the most accurate pair on the list, they are definitely the choice for the jet-setting muso.
Where to get
AKG K712 Pro
What is it:
The AKG K712 Pro are my personal favourite studio headphones, I don’t yet own a pair however I’ve had the pleasure of using multiple pairs, and it’s always been an incredibly immersive audio experience. They’re the most acoustically accurate pair of headphones I have had on my ears, they able to produce huge dynamic range – you almost won’t realize you’ve got headphones on.
Best feature(s):
They’re incredibly comfortable, the wide dynamic range means your ears will suffer far less fatigue over several hour mixing or production sessions.
Not so cool:
I would have liked to see a sturdier design for this price-point, however the incredibly awesome sound far outweighs the need for sturdiness, I doubt anyone will be taking them out of the studio anyway!
Final Thoughts:
The AKG K712 Pro are fantastic studio headphones, they’re far superior to other options in the price range. They go for R5250.
Where to get
One man’s poison…
Keep in mind that everyone’s ears and preferences are different.
My favourite pair of studio headphones might not be amazing to you. Hopefully we’ve outlined enough about what makes each pair special to make the choice easier for you!
