6 Best Headphone Brands for Musicians, Studio & Professionals

Highest Rated Headphone Brands

If you’re just getting started in music production or simply curious about the best headphone brands musicians prefer, this guide is for you.

Understanding what brand headphones are best for professional musicians and audio engineers can help you make informed choices, whether you’re working on your first mix or just looking to enjoy high-quality sound quality. Whether you’re looking for wired headphones or wireless headphones, this guide covers the top headphone brands trusted by professionals.

The rankings in this guide are based on extensive analysis of over 57,800 ratings and reviews from musicians, audio professionals, and enthusiasts.

This way, you’ll be getting the collective audio experience of people who rely on the best headphone brands for their craft. Although we wont feature some styles of headphones, we also considered noise isolation, battery life, and audio quality as key factors for each brand’s offerings.

Top 6 Headphone Brands for Musicians

6. AKG

AKG, short for Akustische und Kino-Gerรคte Gesellschaft, was founded in 1949 in Austria by two entrepreneursโ€”a physicist and an engineer. AKG started as a company that produced audio equipment for movie theaters but quickly expanded into the professional audio world. By the early 1950s, AKG was a pioneer in the industry, inventing the dynamic cardioid microphone in 1953, a piece of technology still widely used today.

AKG began producing over ear headphones in 1949, making them one of the first companies to focus on best branded headphones for audio production. Their early focus on producing equipment for professionals set the stage for their reputation as a great headphone brand. Over the years, AKG continues to be a strong contender for the best headphones brand title. It also maintained its strong presence in the music industry, known for their durable, high-quality microphones, and different types of headphones.

Headphones to Check Out:
AKG K240

AKG K240

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The AKG K240, a semi-open model, is an excellent choice for anyone new to music production. These headphones have a reputation for providing balanced and accurate sound, making them ideal for critical listening tasks such as mixing and mastering. The semi-open design allows for a more natural soundstage, which can help with stereo imagingโ€”useful when youโ€™re fine-tuning tracks. These headphones are a solid choice for those looking for good sound quality.

Notable Musicians and Producers: AKGโ€™s reputation extends beyond just home studios. Musicians and producers like Bootsy Collins, Steve Pageot, Sweet Sweet Moon, and Ghost Capsules rely on AKG headphones sound and microphones for both live performances and studio recording.

Why Musicians Love AKG: Musicians and audio professionals trust AKG for their long history of innovation and reliability. The K240, for example, is loved for its neutral sound signature, making it easier to hear every detail in a mix without the exaggerated bass or treble that some consumer headphones might have. For someone starting out in music production, AKG offers a best brand in headphones that combines professional-grade quality and affordability. Additionally, their closed back headphones ensure passive noise isolation in recording sessions.

5. KRK Systems

KRK Systems may be more famous for their studio monitors, but their expertise in speaker technology has made their headphones a top headphone brand for music producers and engineers who need balanced sound and audio quality. Founded in 1986 by Keith R. Klawitter, KRK Systems started with a focus on building high-quality studio monitors. Klawitter, an audio engineer for Hollywood films, wanted monitors that provided better sound quality and clarity, so he built his ownโ€”and KRK was born.

KRK Systems took their expertise in studio monitors and applied it to over ear headphones, creating products that are perfect for critical listening in quiet environments. The KRK KNS 8400 headphones are one of their best headphone models, designed to deliver the same accurate sound you’d expect from their studio monitors. They provide excellent noise isolation, meaning you can focus on the details of your mix without being distracted by background noise. These wired headphones excel in capturing detailed sound for professionals.

Headphones to Check Out:
KRK KNS 8400

KRK KNS 8400

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Why Musicians Love KRK: What sets KRK headphones apart is their focus on accuracy. The KNS 8400 is a go-to model for professionals who want to replicate the listening experience of working with studio monitors but in a quieter, more controlled setting. For someone just starting in the music production world, KRK headphones offer precision and reliability that help improve the quality of your mixes right from the start. They are also known for their good headphones that combine clarity and build quality.

4. Sennheiser

Sennheiser was founded just after World War II, in 1945, by Fritz Sennheiser in a small laboratory in Germany. Originally named Laboratorium Wennebostel, the company initially focused on producing microphones, and it wasn’t long before they became a major player in the audio equipment world. One of their most significant breakthroughs came in 1968 when they introduced the worldโ€™s first open back audiophile headphones, setting a new standard for how headphones could be used in both professional and consumer settings.

Sennheiser has always been at the forefront of audio innovation, which is why they remain a family-owned company with a stellar reputation. The Sennheiser HD 600 model, introduced in the 1990s, is still considered one of the best branded headphones for studio work. These headphones provide incredibly transparent and fantastic sound quality, making them perfect for critical listening tasks like mixing and mastering. The over ear design allows air and sound to flow more freely, which helps create a more natural and wide soundstage, giving you a clearer sense of the spatial arrangement in your recordings.

Headphones to Check Out:
Sennheiser HD600

Sennheiser HD 600

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Why Musicians Love Sennheiser: Musicians and producers praise Sennheiser headphones for their accuracy, transparency, and comfort during long studio sessions. The HD 600, in particular, is often recommended for those who need best branded headphones that can reveal the subtle details in a mix. For beginners in music production, Sennheiserโ€™s reputation for excellent sound quality makes them a best brand in headphones, providing reliability, long-lasting gear. Truly a great headphone brand for studio work.

Notable Musicians and Producers: Countless professionals, including top-tier producers and engineers, have trusted Sennheiser gear for decades. Their headphones are found in some of the best recording studios in the world, and their noise cancelling headphones feature impressive noise isolation.

3. Audio-Technica

Audio-Technica has been a top headphone brand in the audio world since 1962, when they began as a manufacturer of phonograph cartridges in Tokyo. Over the years, they branched out into making a wide range of audio equipment, including microphones, turntables, and of course, headphones. It wasnโ€™t until 1974, though, that Audio-Technica introduced their first headphones, and since then, they have become one of the best headphone brands in professional audio.

The Audio-Technica ATH-R70x is one of their best headphones brand models for professional use, known for its comfort, clarity, and durability. These headphones are ideal for extended studio sessions due to their lightweight design, and their over ear nature ensures a broad, natural soundstage. This makes the ATH-R70x an excellent choice for mixing, where you want to be able to hear each element of your track clearly, offering good sound quality.

Headphones to Check Out:
Audio Technica ATH-R70X

Audio-Technica ATH-R70x

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Why Musicians Love Audio-Technica: Audio-Technica headphones are known for their versatility, offering excellent performance for both home studios and professional recording environments. Musicians and producers love the ATH-R70x for its balanced sound and comfort, especially during long listening sessions. For beginners, Audio-Technica offers a wide range of models at different price level ranges, ensuring there’s something for everyone, from casual listeners to professionals. Audio-Technica is undoubtedly a great headphone brand that serves various audio needs.

Notable Musicians and Producers: David Cole, Ian Moore, George Massenburg, Ed Cherney, among others.

2. Sony

Sony is a massive company with a long and storied history, and their influence in the audio world is undeniable. Founded in 1946 in Tokyo, Sony has been a trailblazer in consumer electronics, and theyโ€™ve made substantial contributions to professional audio as well. One of their early innovations was the development of the first in-ear headphones in 1982, and they have continued to push the boundaries of audio technology ever since.

The Sony MDR-7506 is one of the most iconic wired headphones in the industry. It has been a staple in recording studios since its release, known for its rugged build and precise sound profile reproduction. These closed-back headphones provide excellent noise isolation, making them perfect for monitoring during recording sessions or for listening in noisy environments. They deliver a clean, detailed sound, which makes them a favorite for tracking, mixing, and general studio use.

Headphones to Check Out:
Sony MDR-7506

Sony MDR-7506

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Why Musicians Love Sony: The MDR-7506 is praised for its reliability and flat frequency response, which helps musicians and producers accurately hear their recordings without any color added to the sound. This makes them the best headphone brand for making critical adjustments during mixing or mastering. For beginners, the MDR-7506 is an affordable entry point into the world of professional-grade over-ear headphones, offering durability, sound quality, and build quality at a reasonable price tag. Sonyโ€™s range also includes wireless headphones and true wireless earbuds like the best sony earbuds for those who prefer portability without compromising on audio quality.

Notable for: In-ear headphones, noise-canceling technology, professional-grade audio gear, and studio headphones. You can often see the MDR-7506 and it’s sister model the MDR-V6 on the ears of famous musicians performing on the Youtube Channel “The First Take”

1. Beyerdynamic

Founded in 1924 in Berlin, Beyerdynamic is one of the oldest best headphone brands in the industry, known for its high-quality audio equipment. They started by producing speakers for movie theaters and later expanded into the realm of dynamic microphones and headphones. Their first pair of dynamic headphones, the DT48, was released in 1937 and remained in production until 2013, a testament to Beyerdynamic’s dedication to sound quality and longevity.

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO is a closed-back model that is favored by musicians and producers for its excellent noise isolation, clear, punchy bass, and balanced sound. These over ear headphones are ideal for tracking, where you need to focus on the sound coming through the headphones without any interference from ambient noise. The DT 770 PRO is known for its comfort, making it a great choice for long recording sessions or long listening sessions. The high level of detailed sound in the mix allows you to catch every nuance, making them a popular choice in studios around the world and solidifying Beyerdynamic’s position as a top headphone brand.

Headphones to Check Out:
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO (250 Ohm) Review - Closed Back Headphones

Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO

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Beyerdynamic also offers premium headphones with active noise cancellation and models like the planar magnetic headphones for audiophiles who want to experience immersive sound. Their headphones, such as the DT 770 PRO, are built with longevity in mind, and many users report these wired headphones last for years.

Why Musicians Love Beyerdynamic: Musicians and producers rely on Beyerdynamic headphones for their build quality, excellent sound quality, and sound clarity. The DT 770 PRO is often used in professional studios, as well as by home studio enthusiasts who want to elevate their audio setup. Its closed-back design ensures no sound bleeds out during recording, which is especially useful when tracking vocals or instruments. The headphones are also praised for their durability, with many users reporting that their DT 770 PROs have lasted for years, even with heavy use.

Their wireless headphones also offer hours of battery life, making Beyerdynamic a versatile choice for both wired and wireless connectivity. This reputation makes Beyerdynamic one of the best brands for headphones in the industry. Some of their audio products are even considered as one of the best gaming headphone brands.

For beginners looking to invest in a high-quality pair of headphones that will stand the test of time, Beyerdynamic offers an exceptional balance of price and performance. Whether you’re tracking, mixing, or simply listening to your favorite music, the DT 770 PRO is a solid choice for both professionals and hobbyists alike.

Notable Musicians and Producers: The Beatles, Abba, Bob Dylan, Joe Bonamassa, and Nicko McBrain (Iron Maiden).


Understanding How These Brands Were Ranked

The ranking process for these top headphone brands was comprehensive, relying on an analysis of more than 57,800 ratings and reviews from musicians, audio engineers, and home recording enthusiasts. This diverse range of opinions helped provide an accurate overview of which best headphone brands excel in the music production world. We also considered factors such as noise isolation, audio quality, battery life, and spatial audio when evaluating each brand’s performance.

What We Considered:

  • Eligibility Criteria: To be considered, each brand had to have headphones available for sale through a major U.S. retailer specializing in Pro Audio or Music Equipment. The headphones must also have been included in one of our guides focused on musician-specific needs, such as studio headphones, budget studio headphones, or headphones for recording and mixing.
  • Product Scope: Sixty-five different sets of headphones from the listed best brands for headphones were evaluated. These brands included AKG, Audio-Technica, Beyerdynamic, KRK Systems, Sennheiser, and Sony.
  • Rating and Review Sources: Data was compiled from various sources, including star ratings, written reviews, online forums, video reviews, and magazine articles. The reviews came from musicians, home recording enthusiasts, and professional audio engineers.
  • Process: Our team of experts analyzed the data using the Gearank algorithm, which assigns a score out of 100 based on individual product ratings. This score was then adjusted to account for the number of times each brand was recommended in our guides. Popular headphone brands were ranked according to their overall weighted average score.

BEST HEADPHONE BRANDS QUICK COMPARISON

Brand NameYear EstablishedCountry of OriginManufacturing Location(s)Company Size (Approx.)Usual Warranty PeriodCompany Rating Headphone Quality Rating
AKG1947AustriaAustria, China, HungaryLarge, Global2 Years9090
KRK Systems1986USAUSAMedium2 Years9191
Sennheiser1945GermanyGermanyLarge, Global2 Years9494
Audio-Technica1962JapanJapan, China, TaiwanLarge, Global2 Years9393
Sony1946JapanJapan, Malaysia, ChinaVery Large, Global1-2 Years9494
Beyerdynamic1924GermanyGermanyMedium-Large2 Years9494

Conclusion

Whether youโ€™re a professional musician, an audio engineer, or a beginner just starting in music production, choosing the best budget studio headphones can make a huge difference in the quality of your work. And a big part of this choice is knowing the best headphone brand options.

All of the brands listed here have earned their place through years of innovation, high-quality products, and a commitment to meeting the needs of musicians and producers. Best headphones for professionals usually come with features like active noise cancellation, noise isolation, and accurate sound profiles, and these premium headphones are made to last through heavy use.

If youโ€™re just starting out, brands like Audio-Technica and AKG offer reliable and affordable options that provide great value without sacrificing sound quality. For those ready to invest in more advanced gear, Sennheiser, Sony, and Beyerdynamic provide best branded headphones trusted by some of the biggest names in the industry. They offer the best studio headphones, ideal for mixing, mastering, and general music production.

No matter your budget or experience level, any of the headphones from these best brands for headphones will help elevate your music production, giving you the tools you need to create and enjoy high-quality sound. These are great headphone brands that consistently deliver performance and reliability, from wireless headphones with impressive battery life to noise canceling headphones that block out ambient sound. ย 

Many of these brands also offer earphones and wireless headphone model options. When comparing headphones vs earphones, headphones are still favored for professional use.

Popular wireless earphones from Apple, and wireless headphones like the Shure Aonic 70 and Bose 700 ANC, can be used – but they aren’t optimized for tracking, mixing, and mastering. You’ll notice substantial improvements in listening experience when switching from budget earbuds and earphones.

If you have any questions about which headphones might be right for you, feel free to leave a comment or explore our other guides on the best headphone brands, headphone types, and features.

About the Author and Contributors
Lead Author & Researcher
Contributors

Jerry Borillo: Illustration.
Alexander Briones: Editing.

Media / Image Credit

Main/Top Image: Created by Gearank.com

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