You might not realize it at first, but upgrading to the best closed back headphones can make a huge difference in how your recordings sound and feel.
Budget Option | Budget Option Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 91 | 24375+ |
Under $150 | Under $150 Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 94 | 30950+ | |||
 | 94 | 1225+ | |||
 | 94 | 30600+ |
Under $200 | Under $200 Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 94 | 22500+ | |||
 | 94 | 15950+ | |||
 | 89 | 200+ |
Under $500 | Under $500 Product Image | Product Title | *GEARANK | **Sources | Check Prices |
 | 92 | 1250+ | |||
 | 91 | 625+ |
*Gearank = Rating score out of 100.
**Sources = Number of gear owner and user opinions analyzed for these product Gearank Ratings.
Research Process: How Gearank Works
I didn’t think much would change when I upgraded from my old pair, but the improvement was instant. Suddenly, I could hear every detail in my playing, free from background noise and click track bleed. It felt less like tracking in a home studio and more like performing in a focused, professional space. That’s the beauty of closed-back design: when done right, it brings clarity, confidence, and comfort to every take.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through the best closed back headphone options across a range of price points. Whether you’re an audio engineer, producer, musician, or just someone who’s serious about sound, there’s a pair here that’ll fit your workflow and budget.
There are different types of headphones used in music production, but closed-back headphones are a top choice when it comes to recording, monitoring, or tracking in noisy environments. Their sealed ear cup design helps block out external sounds and keeps your click track or backing track from bleeding into your mic. Compared to open-back headphones, which let sound escape through vented ear cups, closed-backs offer better isolation, stronger low-end response, and more focused sound. You can dive deeper into the open back vs closed back headphones debate if you want to compare their roles in the studio.
That said, not every closed-back model delivers the same experience. The best headphones for music production need to strike the right balance of isolation, comfort, durability, and sonic accuracy. Here’s what I always consider when choosing the right pair:
- Sound Isolation: Solid noise isolation helps prevent audio from leaking into your mic, especially when tracking vocals or acoustic instruments.
- Comfort: Long sessions call for plush cushions, lightweight frames, and adjustable headbands that won’t fatigue your ears or distract your focus.
- Frequency Response: A balanced and transparent sound lets you hear your takes accurately and make better mix decisions.
- Durability: Studio gear gets used hard—look for rugged materials, reinforced cables, and replaceable parts.
- Cable Length and Detachability: A longer, detachable cable adds flexibility during setup and is easier to replace if it wears out.
- Impedance: If you’re plugging into an interface or portable device, aim for lower impedance (around 32 ohms). Higher impedance headphones (250 ohms and up) often need a dedicated headphone amp to sound their best.
Whether you’re recording in a pro studio, a bedroom setup, or something in between, this guide will help you find the best closed-back headphones for your needs. I’ve included detailed specs, features, pros and cons, and links to where you can grab each pair online.
Let’s dive in and find the right cans to elevate your sessions.
Best Closed-Back Headphones Under $50
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
These great-sounding headphones are for bedroom producers, podcasters, and studio owners who are seeking affordable, lightweight headphones. It has a neutral sound profile suitable for accurate monitoring and tracking.
Pros:
- Comfortable to wear
- Rugged
- Good isolation
- Lightweight
- Fixed cable
- Lacks bass
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The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x is affordable for those seeking studio-style headphones without breaking the bank. Priced around USD 49, it is one of the best options for budget-conscious buyers. The build quality is lightweight but cheap due to its plastic construction. However, there are metal reinforcements in critical areas.
The ATH-M20x offers a relatively neutral sound profile, which is excellent for accurate monitoring. The bass response is quiet, and the overall sound signature is balanced. The 40mm drivers deliver precise and clear midrange and treble frequencies. While the vinyl-covered ear pads may feel unforgiving after prolonged use, the omission of a silver Audio-Technica logo on the ear cups gives the headphones a surprisingly premium look.
The fixed audio cable (3 meters long) might be a drawback for some users. However, bedroom music producers on a budget will appreciate the attractive price-to-performance ratio. Podcasters will find the relatively accurate frequency response useful. Studio owners can use these headphones during tracking without worrying about their affordability.
In summary, the ATH-M20x is a solid choice for those who need studio headphones without spending too much. While it may have only some of the bells and whistles of higher-priced models, it does the job without compromising sound quality. Despite its plastic construction and vinyl-covered ear pads, the headphones are lightweight and comfortable for extended use.
Some have opted to extend their budget slightly above $50 to get a good condition used pair of headphones, like the AKG K371. This can be a good budget option if you know how to properly check the condition of the cans.
- Driver Size: 40mm
- Magnet Type: Neodymium
- Frequency Response: 15Hz-20kHz
- Sensitivity: 96 dB
- Weight: 0.42 lbs. (without cable and connector)
- Connectivity: 1/8″, 1/4″ adapter
Best Closed Back Headphones Under $150
Sony MDR-7506
This is for studio professionals who value durability and versatility. Its flat midrange, lifted treble, and low sound leakage aid in tracking and mixing, though ear cups may heat during extended use.
Pros:
- Clear midrange with slight treble bump
- Useful for both tracking and mixing
- Good quality build
- Detailed bass, no bloat in frequencies
- Not meant for long use
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The Sony MDR-7506 is a long-running product in Sony’s headphone line. It has remained mostly unchanged over its nearly 30-year run, with the exception of the switch from Samarium Cobalt magnets to Neodymium early on.
It features a 40mm Neodymium Driver that gives just the right amount of low end without making the lower midrange too bloated or pushed.
They have a mostly flat midrange with a slight lift in the treble region for more detail. This, together with its closed-back design, makes the MDR-7506 a Swiss Army knife in the studio. It is able to handle tracking and mix referencing tasks well. It’s not the most neutral sound, but it helps you hear standout frequencies during mixing.
They have great background noise isolation, which is ideal for tracking. Sound leakage is kept to a minimum, and it is one of the quietest cans on the market with regard to ambient noise.
Speaking of closed back, comfort can be an issue because the ear cups tend to get hot when used for long periods.
Overall quality of the headband, speakers, and padding is up to the usual high standards of Sony.
The MDR-7506 has been a studio staple for decades. Its exceptional sound, versatility, and durability have earned it legendary status. It’s one of the best closed-back headphones for tracking and monitoring.
- Driver Size: 40 mm
- Magnet Type: Neodymium
- Frequency Response: 10 – 20,000 Hz
- Impedance: 63 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 106 dB/W/m
- Max Input Power: 700 mW at 1 kHz
- Weight: 9.52 oz.
- Connectivity:9.8 ft. coiled cable Connection, 1/8″ Gold plated stereo jack plug, and 1/4″ adapter (6.35 mm)
Sennheiser HD 25
It is especially made for DJs, producers, and audiophiles valuing durability, noise isolation, and a unique swiveling ear cup for monitoring. Its adjustable dual headband and replaceable parts enhance comfort and longevity.
Pros:
- Lightweight
- Swiveling ear cups great for DJs
- Good build quality
- Spare parts readily available
- On-ear design may be uncomfortable
- Doesn’t fold
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The Sennheiser HD 25 headphones are a well-known and highly regarded choice for DJs, producers, and audiophiles. Their exceptional performance, durability, and unique design have made them a go-to choice since they emerged in the late ’80s. The headphones deliver accurate reproductions and excellent sound quality, making them ideal for use in loud clubs or studios.
The HD 25’s closed-back design effectively isolates external sound sources, making them perfect for monitoring in loud environments. Additionally, DJs love the ability to swivel one ear cup away while mixing, allowing them to hear the crowd or monitor the room without removing the headphones. The headphones are also lightweight and comfortable, with adjustable ear cups and a dual headband.
Although the on-ear design and tight fit may not suit everyone’s preferences, the HD 25 headphones are a reliable choice for professionals and enthusiasts who prioritize sound quality, durability, and noise isolation. Sennheiser also offers replacement parts, extending their lifespan and making them a reliable choice. If you’re serious about your audio gear, the Sennheiser HD 25 headphones won’t disappoint.
- Driver Size: 40mm
- Magnet Type: Neodymium
- Frequency Response: 16Hz-22kHz
- Sensitivity: 200 dB
- Weight: 0.3 lbs.
- Connectivity: 1/8″ plug, 1/4″ adapter
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
These best closed-back headphones benefit studio engineers needing reliable headphones for both monitoring and normal listening. Its 45mm drivers ensure mixes translate well, though its proprietary cord-locking connector limits replacement options.
Pros:
- Neutral and revealing sound
- Balanced mids and highs
- Deep bass without being too boomy
- Solid and reliable
- Vegan-friendly faux leather earcups
- Proprietary locking connector
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A darling for many studio engineers, the ATH-M50x is a staple for large, small, and mobile studios for an unmistakable sound signature that is neutral enough to make critical mix decisions with. It delivers better sound quality whether for both critical and natural listening applications.
It has 45mm drivers that provide a tight bass response without it being out of proportion to the mids and highs. This way it truly reveals the natural state of your mix, resulting in adjustments that translate well with real-world speakers.
Everything about it feels solid and reliable, not that much different from high end headphones. Even the faux leather ear cups feel good. It fits nicely and is reasonably comfortable.
Note: The ATH-M50x utilizes a proprietary cord locking connector, which means you can’t use a generic replacement cord.
Audio-Technica is widely considered as one of the best headphone brands today, and the ATH-50x lives up to the company’s quality standards.
With many hit albums produced and mixed using these headphones, there is absolutely no reason not to get these for recording.
- Driver Size: 45 mm
- Magnet Type: Neodymium
- Frequency Response: 15 Hz to 28 kHz
- Impedance: 38 ohms
- Sensitivity: 99 dB
- Max Input Power: 1,600 mW
- Weight: 10 oz (285 g) without cable and connector
- Connectivity: 3 cables in total – Detachable 9.8′ (3 m) straight, and coiled cables + a single 3.9′ (1.2 m) straight cable all with 1/8″ plugs + a 1/4″ screw-on adapter.
Best Headphones Under $200 – Closed Back
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO (80 Ohm)
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO is suited for tracking, mixing, and casual listening. Available in 32, 80, and 250 Ohm versions, it offers a comfortable design, excellent low-frequency detail, and balanced sound.
Pros:
- Balanced midrange and treble
- Smooth low-frequency bump
- Easier to integrate into home studios
- Smooth low frequency bump
- The cable is not detachable
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The DT 770 PRO series comes in 3 options: 32 Ohms (Amazon link) for consumer use, 80 Ohms designed specifically for tracking and mixing in recording studios, and a 250 Ohms version designed specifically for use with high-power amplifiers.
It has a balanced sound with a flat midrange and a smooth low frequency bump, making it suitable for mixing. However, it is important to remember the low-end bump.
For a closed back pair of cans, this one feels quite comfortable, even after hours of use. My main gripe is its non-detachable cable, thankfully the cable doesn’t feel like it will need replacing any time soon.
If you need a tracking and mixing headphone that can keep track of low frequencies such as on bass or keyboards, the DT 770 PRO is a good pick. They also happen to have an impeccable sound quality for casual listening.
- Driver Size: 45 mm
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz to 35 kHz
- Impedance: 80 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 96 dB
- Max Input Power: 100 mW
- Weight: 270g without cable (0.55 lbs)
- Connectivity: 3m coiled cable with a gold-plated 1/8″ plug and 1/4″ adapter.
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO (250 Ohm)
The DT 770 PRO 250 Ohm version has been a studio favorite since 1985. These best closed back headphones offer exceptional frequency range, spacious soundstage, and smooth low-end extension below 50Hz. Its 45mm Neodymium drivers ensure fast response and precise monitoring.
Pros:
- Neutral mid-range
- Good low frequency extension
- Durable
- Serviceable parts
- Pads get dirty easily
- Sibilant voice
- Non-detachable cable
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When it was first introduced back in 1985, studios all over including the BBC1 quickly adapted the original DT770 as their preferred studio headphones. The original’s long term durability, excellent balance of natural sound and great comfort made it ideal for long listening sessions. I also have the same experience with its current incarnation, the DT 770 PRO, which I encountered in a very similar environment.
When I started interning at a local studio and learning the ropes, I was floored at how their mixes sound, especially on a DT 770 Pro 250. At first, I thought they were expensive, but I was surprised when I found out that they were actually accessible. So when I started doing my own work and building up my own studio at home, they were the first on my list of purchases.
The DT 770 PRO sports 45mm drivers with Neodymium magnets. This gives it a fast response and great frequency range extension on the high and low end, it is one of the most balanced I’ve heard in a pair of headphones. It manages to avoid big spikes around 100Hz, a common problem among closed back headphones, and it does so while extending the lows below 50hz smoothly. This gives it fantastic sound quality that’s perfect for monitoring. The chamber tuning is one of the best in the industry. Despite being a closed-back design, it has very spacious soundstage.
The leatherette headband is soft to the touch but is surprisingly durable. Even with wear, Beyerdynamic offers replacements for most of the parts on the headphone including the headband.
The DT 770 Pros were designed to be spartan and easily serviceable. The foam pads are washable and if they eventually give out, they are replaceable. This goes the same for the headband. Beyerdynamic sells spare parts in case your unit gives out. I’ve had my current pair for 6 years and I’ve only had to replace the foam pads twice in that time. The drivers are still holding up.
What I don’t like about the DT 770 250 Ohm is its very sibilant voicing. But it can also be helpful for trimming down excess trebles. Another con I have is that the velour pads are prone to getting dirty. The pads and the inner foam are dust (and pet fur) magnets. Although removing them to clean is easy, It’s an added chore especially if they’re studio headphones.
The DT 770 PRO is a must-have for every studio. It is a great all-rounder for tracking, mixing and even mastering when you have to check the low end balance of your tracks. The treble may be sibilant at times but once you get used to it, you will be rewarded with mixes that translate.
- Your List Here, Paste Driver Size: 45mm
- Frequency Response: 5 – 35,000 Hz
- Impedance: 250 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 96 dB
- Weight: 9.52 oz.
- Connectivity: 9.8 ft. coiled cable Connection, 1/8″ Gold plated stereo jack plug and 1/4″ adapter (6.35 mm)in Bulk
Yamaha HPH-MT8
The Yamaha HPH-MT8 headphones combine accurate sound, midrange clarity, and solid low-mids with excellent noise isolation. Their foldable design, professional look, and included cables make them versatile and studio-friendly.
Pros:
- Linear frequency response
- Great detail
- Detachable cable
- Foldable
- Slightly heavy
- Thin pads
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The Yamaha HPH-MT8 is a flagship studio headphone designed for professional audio engineering tasks. It is ideal for monitoring, mixing, and mastering. The HPH-MT8 delivers accurate sound with a linear frequency response, making it ideal for critical listening. The modern silver-black color and low-profile enclosure design give these headphones a professional look.
These closed-back headphones excel in isolating external noise, contributing to a focused mix experience. The HPH-MT8s provide a distinctive “studio monitor” sound, emphasizing midrange frequencies. Vocals, guitars, woodwinds, brass, and percussion are clear, and the low-mids are solid. The included cables (twisted and straight) are convenient for different scenarios, and the headphones are foldable, making them easy to carry and store.
The Yamaha HPH-MT8 is a reliable choice for professionals seeking accurate sound reproduction and comfort during long studio sessions. Whether you’re a music maker or an audio engineer, these headphones offer great value.
- Driver Size: 45mm
- Magnet Type: Neodymium
- Frequency Response: 15Hz – 28kHz
- Sensitivity: 102dB
- Weight: 350g (0.8lbs) (Without cable&plug)
- Connectivity: 3.5 mm (1/8”) stereo with 6.3 mm (1/4”) stereo adaptor
Best Closed Back Headphones Under $500
Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X
Its solid build, excellent articulation, and minimal sound leakage make it a competitive option for sound engineers, content creators and casual listeners. It also delivers exceptional isolation while maintaining pristine sound quality.
Pros:
- Accurate and engaging
- Great detail and separation
- Fast transient response
- Surprisingly wide soundstage
- Recessed mids and rounded highs might be too bassy for some
- Earcups can get warm
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The Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X headphones are a great option for those who value both analytical precision and musicality. With the Stellar.45 drive unit, these closed-back headphones deliver detailed sound while being easy to drive by laptops and smartphones. The headphones are robustly built, with solid earcups and headband, and come with multiple cable options for added convenience.
The DT 700 Pro X offers excellent detail and articulation, making them suitable for content creators and consumers alike. The closed-back design ensures minimal sound leakage, making them also suitable for studio work or private listening. However, some users may find the high end slightly saturated or rounded, which may not be their top choice if they prefer an ultra-thin, delicate high end.
Overall, the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X headphones strike a balance between reference accuracy and musical enjoyment. While they excel in detail, they may not be the most exciting headphones for those who are looking for a more lively sound signature. Nonetheless, at their price point, they’re a bargain for what they offer, and if you’re in need of new headphones for music production, give the DT 700 Pro X serious consideration.
- Driver Size: 45mm
- Magnet Type: Neodymium
- Frequency Response: 5Hz-40kHz
- Sensitivity: 100dB
- Weight: 0.77 lbs.
- Connectivity: 1/8″ plug, 1/4″ adapter
Shure SRH1540
For audio professionals, musicians, and serious listeners who are looking for high-quality headphones, these pair offers excellent sound, comfort, and durability for both critical listening and long-term use.
Pros:
- Solid and well-constructed, with a lightweight design and professional aesthetic
- Features memory foam cushions and a linear clamp that provides a secure fit without discomfort
- Delivers a neutral sound profile, suitable for professional monitoring and mastering
- Proprietary connector design offers good strain relief and prevents accidental disconnection
- Does not fold up for easier transport
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The Shure SRH1540 is an awesome choice for anyone looking for solid headphones on a much higher price tag. With 40mm Neodymium drivers, they deliver crisp and spacious sound with a punchy bass and nice, clear highs.
The APTIV Film diaphragm is a nifty feature, cutting down on distortion and giving you cleaner audio overall. The detachable cables with MMCX connectors are super handy, too, making it easy to replace the cables if needed, and they stay securely in place thanks to the gold-plated connectors.
These headphones aren’t just about great sound they’re built to last. The design is lightweight but sturdy, and the memory foam cushions are comfy even during long listening sessions.
The neutral sound profile is great for mixing or just chilling with your favorite tunes. The headphones fit snugly without squeezing too much, and the connector design is solid, so you don’t have to worry about any accidental disconnections. For the price, these are certainly competitive.
- Driver Size: 40 mm
- Magnet Type: Neodymium
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 25,000Hz
- Impedance: 46 Ohms
- Sensitivity: 99 dB
- Weight: 10.1 oz
- Cable and Connectivity: 6 ft dual-exit, detachable oxygen-free copper cable; Gold-plated 1/8″ stereo mini jack
Things to Consider When Buying Headphones For Recording
Tracking
When you’re tracking, laying down a new part while listening to the mix in your headphones, closed-back headphones are almost always the way to go. The sound isolation they provide is a huge help. You don’t want the click track or backing track bleeding into your mic, especially when you’re recording vocals or acoustic instruments. I learned this the hard way after hours of cleaning up takes that had headphone spill tucked in under every phrase.
Closed-backs don’t just keep the mix in, they also help keep outside noise out. That comes in handy not only in the studio but also in live or noisy settings, like when DJs cue the next song. They’re also great when using headphones for electric guitar, you want to hear every nuance of your tone without distractions. While no headphone is perfectly leak-proof, a good closed-back model puts isolation at the forefront, which is exactly what you want when you’re trying to capture a clean take.
Mixing
Now, when it comes to mixing, most engineers still lean toward using the best open-back headphones for mixing, or better yet, studio monitors, but that doesn’t mean closed-backs can’t pull their weight. Some of them, like the Sony MDR-7506, have earned a solid reputation for being detailed and brutally honest. That makes them a good all-in-one option if you’re looking for headphones that can handle both tracking and mix reference duties.
I’ve personally used closed-backs to double-check low-end balance or to work late at night without disturbing anyone. Since their design keeps sound from leaking out, they’re great if you’re mixing in a shared space or on the go. The enclosed build can even help you catch details in the low frequencies thanks to the natural chambering effect inside the cups.
If you’re on a tight budget or prefer to travel light, a good pair of closed-backs might be all you need. Just be aware that some closed-back audiophile headphones are tuned more for pleasure listening than accuracy. Still, models like the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro strike a great balance, they’re popular in the audiophile crowd but also well-respected in studio circles for their clarity and versatility.
Comfort
Comfort’s a very personal thing when it comes to headphones. If you’re only wearing them for quick takes or short sessions, you can get by with almost anything. But if you’re tracking or mixing for hours at a time, fit and feel really start to matter. Some brands share specs like clamping force, but it’s tough to know how that translates without actually wearing them, your head shape and ear size can change how pressure is distributed.
Some folks prefer lighter headphones, others like a snugger fit that helps with isolation. My advice? Stick with what’s worked for you in the past. If you’re trying something new, read up on what others say, or better yet, try a pair in person if you can. You’ll find that the different types of headphone builds all handle comfort in slightly different ways.
Breaking In
The whole idea of “breaking in” headphones sparks a lot of debate. Some audio engineers and audiophiles believe that most new headphones don’t reach their full potential until you’ve run them for 12 to 24 hours. I’ve noticed subtle changes in a few pairs after some use, mainly in the high end smoothing out, but nothing so drastic that it changed how I worked.
If you want to burn them in with pink noise or playlists overnight, go for it. But honestly, most headphones will naturally settle in after a few sessions. The key thing is to get familiar with how they sound early on, so you can start trusting them sooner.
Can I use wireless headphones to mix?
Short answer: not really. Most wireless headphones are built for casual listening, not critical work. They often use Bluetooth, which adds a bit of latency, and many apply active noise cancellation that alters the frequency balance. That’s not something you want when you’re trying to dial in EQ or line up tracks during a session.
That said, wireless headphones can be useful as a secondary reference to hear how your mix might translate on consumer gear. But for serious studio work, especially tracking, mixing, or mastering, you’ll want to stick with a good wired pair. They’re more reliable, more accurate, and they won’t introduce timing issues that throw off your performance.
Best Closed Back Headphones Selection Methodology
The first edition was published in 2016. This current edition was published on 2025.
For this edition, we looked at the most current ratings and customer feedback for 73 sets of closed-back headphones.
The review and rating sources we gathered totaled over 159,700 – all of which were then processed via the Gearank Algorithm to produce the rating scores out of 100 you see above. We used the resulting ratings to narrow down the list to just the best of the best in each of the price brackets above. For more information about our methods, see How Gearank Works.
Note that some high-end headphones, like the Dan Clark Audio Aeon 2, were priced above the price ceiling we set for this guide.
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide’s production – click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Contributors
Allen Articulo: Supplemental Writing
Alexander Briones: Supplemental writing and Editing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media / Image Credit
Main/Top Image: By Gearank.com using photographs of the Shure SRH1540, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, and Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 250 Ohm headphones.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials, or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers, except for the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Headband, which was photographed by the author.
More Best Closed Back Headphones for Studio Recording 2025 Related Posts
Comments:
15 responses
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The Yamaha HPH-50 was removed from the recommended list when we published the July 2022 Edition.
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Publication of our January 2022 Edition resulted in the following headphones coming off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
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I still recommend Sony MDR 7506. Over 35 years, it’s still and always will be the best basic and standard monitor headphones in the whole wide world music industry.
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As a result of our January 2021 update the following headphones came off the recommended list above, but you can still see our analysis of them:
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The Sony MDR-7520 Headphones have been removed from the recommended list above due to being discontinued.
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The following set of headphones came off the recommended list above when we updated this guide in February 2020: KRK KNS 8400.
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As a result of the August 2018 update to this guide, the following headphones came off our recommended list above but you can still read what we have to say about them:
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Biggest issue for recording headphones are the small 1/8 in jack. The 1/4 in jacks work much better without the adapters.
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With today’s update we have removed the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro headphones from this guide but we are still recommending them in our guide to Cheap Studio Headphones.
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I forgot to post back at the time, but we did publish that new guide I mentioned: The Best Open-Back Headphones for Mixing and Mastering.
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We discussed this in the ‘Things to Consider’ section above, but I’ll add a little to that.
The best solution for mixing is using Studio Monitors.
Next best is open-back headphones and we’ll have a new guide covering this topic very soon.
Then you have the option of using closed-back headphones which is an acceptable way to go if you’re working on a limited budget because you can also use them for recording tracks. You generally shouldn’t record tracks with open-back headphones due to the monitor mix spilling into the new tracks. You might also want closed-back if you’re in an environment where you have to keep the noise down for others.
Don’t forget that technology moves forward – what may have been a ‘hard rule’ a few years ago is becoming a ‘rule of thumb’, and new developments might make it a non-issue in the future.
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Hey,
I was under the impression mixing headphones need to be open-back headphones thus I am confused why you would even mention mixing here? Im not tryna be a d*** or anything, but I am actually trying to understand if there’s something that I am msising or do not know yet.
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Yo thanks for sharing your best closed-back studio monitoring headphones. The best closed-back mixing headphones for me are the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro because they perform incredibly well for their very cheap price tag.
But if I have to make an unbiased choice, it would be the V-MODA Crossfade M-100. They don’t have an online presence as strong as the Audio Technica ATH-50X or Sony MDR 7506, but these mixing headphones are impressive. I think they should be more popular than they are now.
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We haven’t analyzed open backed headphones yet, but we will do so in a future gear guide and we’ll provide a link at the top of this page when it’s done.
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Disclosure
About the Author and Contributors
Here are the key people and sources involved in this guide's production - click on linked names for information about their music industry backgrounds.
Lead Author & Researcher
Raphael Pulgar
I've been an audio engineer for 20 years specializing in rock and metal recordings. I also play guitar and produce original music for my band and other content creators.
Some of the gear I use in studio recording includes the Focusrite Scarlett 18i20, Focusrite Scarlett Solo, Samson QH4 Headphone Amp and Cloudlifter CL-1. My mics include Aston Origin, Aston Element, Shure SM57, Rode NT1, Rode PodMic and MXL V67G.
Contributors
Alexander Briones: Supplemental writing and Editing.
Jason Horton: Editing and Illustrating.
Media
Main/Top Image: By Gearank.com using photographs of the Shure SRH1540, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x and Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 250 Ohm headphones.
The individual product images were sourced from websites, promotional materials or supporting documentation provided by their respective manufacturers except for the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Headband which was photographed by the author.
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