When it comes to studio recording, the right pair of headphones can make all the difference. Whether you're a seasoned audio engineer or an aspiring music producer, choosing the best headphones for studio recording is crucial for capturing every nuance of your sound. In this comprehensive comparison, we delve into the top contenders in the market, evaluating them across essential attributes such as Sound Quality, Comfort, Durability, Isolation, Frequency Response, and Price.
From the high-resolution sound of the Austrian Audio Hi-X60 to the balanced audio profile of the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X, each pair of headphones brings something unique to the table. The Audio-Technica ATH-M70x and Focal Listen Professional headphones are celebrated for their detailed sound and robust build quality, while the Sony MDR-7506 remains a staple in studios worldwide for its accurate sound reproduction. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro and Shure SRH840A are known for their exceptional comfort and durability, and the AKG K371 offers a blend of accuracy and comfort that makes it a strong contender.
When selecting the best headphones for studio recording, there are several key factors to consider. Sound Quality is paramount; you need headphones that can reproduce audio with precision and clarity. Comfort is also crucial, especially during long recording sessions. Durability ensures that your investment will withstand the rigors of daily use. Isolation is important to prevent sound leakage and external noise interference. Frequency Response should be wide and flat to capture the full spectrum of sound accurately. Lastly, Price is always a consideration, as you want to get the best value for your money.
In this review, we will break down each of these attributes for the leading headphones in the market, helping you make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize sound quality, comfort, or durability, our detailed analysis will guide you to the perfect pair of headphones for your studio needs. Dive in to discover which headphones will elevate your recording experience to the next level.
- Precision studio headphones (Best Overall) - Audio-Technica ATH-M70x, $299
- Top-tier studio headphones - Focal Listen, $299
- Critical listening studio headphones - Shure SRH840A, $149
- High-resolution studio headphones - Austrian Audio Hi-X60, $399
- Studio standard headphones - Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro, $169
- Best value studio headphones - AKG K371, $168
- Versatile studio headphones - Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X, $269
- Industry standard studio headphones (Cheapest) - Sony MDR-7506, $98
- 45mm large-aperture drivers
- Detachable cables
- Hard carrying case
- 90-degree swiveling earcups
The Audio-Technica ATH-M70x offers balanced and detailed sound, exceptional comfort, and robust build quality, making them ideal for studio professionals.
- 45mm large-aperture drivers
- Detachable cables
- Hard carrying case
- 90-degree swiveling earcups
9
Comfort
Lightweight and padded9
Durability
Robust metal components10
Frequency Response
5 Hz to 40 kHz9
Isolation
Excellent sound isolation9
Sound Quality
Balanced and detailed soundWhen it comes to studio headphones, Audio-Technica has long been a trusted name, and the ATH-M70x is no exception. Designed for professionals who demand the utmost accuracy in their audio monitoring, these headphones promise to deliver a balanced and detailed sound experience. But do they live up to the hype? In this comprehensive review, we'll delve into every aspect of the ATH-M70x, from sound quality to comfort, durability, and more. Sound Quality The Audio-Technica ATH-M70x is engineered for…
- Exclusive cone technology
- Bluetooth and wired options
- Compact carrying case
The Focal Listen Professional headphones offer exceptional sound quality, comfort, and durability, making them ideal for studio professionals.
- Exclusive cone technology
- Bluetooth and wired options
- Compact carrying case
9
Comfort
Well-padded ear cups9
Frequency Response
Up to 40,000 Hz9
Isolation
Excellent noise isolation9
Sound Quality
Precise and neutral soundWhen it comes to studio recording, mixing, and monitoring, the Focal Listen Professional headphones have garnered attention for their exceptional sound quality, comfort, and durability. In this detailed review, we'll explore every aspect of these headphones, from their sound quality to their price, to help you determine if they're the right fit for your needs. Sound Quality The Focal Listen Professional headphones are designed with exclusive cone technology that offers acoustic transparency and…
- Detachable 3-meter cable
- Collapsible construction
- Carrying bag included
- Threaded ¼” adapter
The Shure SRH840A offers premium detailed sound, superior comfort, and robust durability, making them ideal for critical listening and monitoring.
- Detachable 3-meter cable
- Collapsible construction
- Carrying bag included
- Threaded ¼” adapter
9
Comfort
Wide padded headband9
Durability
High-quality materials9
Frequency Response
Rich bass, clear mids9
Isolation
Excellent noise isolation9
Sound Quality
Detailed and accurate soundWhen it comes to professional studio headphones, the Shure SRH840A stands out as a top contender. Developed upon the solid foundation of its predecessor, the SRH840, the SRH840A brings new and improved features that cater to the needs of audio professionals and enthusiasts alike. In this detailed review, we will explore the various aspects of the Shure SRH840A, including its sound quality, comfort, durability, isolation, frequency response, and price. Whether you're a seasoned audio engineer or…
- High Excursion Technology
- Memory foam earpads
- Metal hinges and bow
- Active noise cancellation
- Foldable design
The Austrian Audio Hi-X60 offers high-resolution sound, exceptional comfort, and robust build quality, making them ideal for studio professionals.
- High Excursion Technology
- Memory foam earpads
- Metal hinges and bow
- Active noise cancellation
- Foldable design
8
Comfort
Soft memory foam earpads9
Durability
Metal hinges and bow9
Frequency Response
Linear and balanced9
Isolation
Excellent noise isolation9
Sound Quality
Clear and detailed soundWhen it comes to studio recording, mixing, and mastering, the choice of headphones can significantly impact the quality of the final product. The Austrian Audio Hi-X60 Professional Closed-Back Over-Ear Headphones have been making waves in the audio community for their exceptional performance and build quality. Priced at $399.00, these headphones promise a lot. But do they deliver? Let's dive into the details. Sound Quality The Austrian Audio Hi-X60 headphones are equipped with proprietary High…
- Bass reflex system
- Replaceable ear pads
- Single-sided cable
- Drawstring bag
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro offers high-resolution sound, exceptional comfort, and robust build quality, making them ideal for studio professionals.
- Bass reflex system
- Replaceable ear pads
- Single-sided cable
- Drawstring bag
8
Comfort
Soft velour ear pads9
Durability
Rugged and hard-wearing9
Frequency Response
5Hz to 35kHz9
Isolation
Excellent noise isolation9
Sound Quality
Detailed and balanced soundThe Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro headphones have long been a staple in the world of professional audio. With a reputation for delivering high-resolution sound and exceptional comfort, these headphones are a top choice for studio recording, monitoring, and even gaming. In this detailed review, we will explore the various aspects of the DT 770 Pro, including sound quality, comfort, durability, isolation, frequency response, and price. By the end of this review, you'll have a comprehensive understanding…
- Titanium-coated transducers
- Foldable design
- Multiple cables included
- 3.5mm to 6.5mm adapter
The AKG K371 offers accurate sound, superior comfort, and good durability, making them ideal for studio professionals.
- Titanium-coated transducers
- Foldable design
- Multiple cables included
- 3.5mm to 6.5mm adapter
9
Comfort
Ergonomic, lightweight design8
Durability
High-quality materials9
Frequency Response
5 Hz to 40 kHz8
Isolation
Good but not extreme9
Sound Quality
Accurate and neutral soundWhen it comes to studio headphones, the AKG K371 has garnered significant attention for its blend of professional-grade sound quality and consumer-friendly features. But do these headphones live up to the hype? In this comprehensive review, we'll delve into everything you need to know about the AKG K371, from sound quality to comfort, durability, isolation, frequency response, and price. Let's get started. Sound Quality The AKG K371 headphones are engineered to match AKG’s reference response…
- Stellar.45 drivers
- Detachable cable
- Adjustable headband
- Soft ear pads
The Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X delivers balanced sound, comfort, and durability, making it a versatile choice for studio professionals.
- Stellar.45 drivers
- Detachable cable
- Adjustable headband
- Soft ear pads
8
Comfort
Well-padded but strong clamp8
Durability
Robust but headband issues9
Frequency Response
Wide and balanced range9
Isolation
Excellent passive noise isolation9
Sound Quality
Detailed and powerful soundWhen it comes to studio headphones, Beyerdynamic has long been a trusted name in the industry. Their latest offering, the Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X, promises to deliver exceptional sound quality, comfort, and durability. But does it live up to the hype? In this detailed review, we'll dive deep into every aspect of these headphones to help you decide if they're the right fit for your needs. Sound Quality The Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X is equipped with the Stellar.45 drivers, which boast an…
- Neodymium magnets
- 40mm drivers
- Foldable design
- Non-detachable cord
The Sony MDR-7506 offers accurate sound, comfort, and durability, making them a staple for studio professionals.
- Neodymium magnets
- 40mm drivers
- Foldable design
- Non-detachable cord
7
Comfort
Lightweight but stock pads wear9
Durability
Rugged construction, long-lasting9
Frequency Response
10 Hz to 20 kHz8
Isolation
Excellent noise reduction9
Sound Quality
Accurate and detailed soundWhen it comes to studio recording, the Sony MDR-7506 headphones have long been heralded as a staple in the industry. With a legacy spanning decades, these headphones have garnered a reputation for their durability, sound quality, and overall reliability. In this detailed review, we'll delve into various aspects of the Sony MDR-7506, including sound quality, comfort, durability, isolation, frequency response, and price, to help you determine if these headphones are the right fit for your needs…
Headphones FAQ (Headphones Buyer's Guide)
What are the best headphones for studio recording?
The best headphones for studio recording include the Austrian Audio Hi-X60, Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X, Audio-Technica ATH-M70x, Focal Listen Professional, Sony MDR-7506, Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro, Shure SRH840A, and AKG K371. Each offers unique strengths in sound quality, comfort, and durability.
Why is sound quality important in studio headphones?
Sound quality is crucial in studio headphones because it ensures accurate audio reproduction, allowing you to hear every detail and nuance in your recordings. This precision is essential for mixing and mastering tracks effectively.
How important is comfort in studio headphones?
Comfort is vital in studio headphones, especially during long recording sessions. Comfortable headphones prevent fatigue and allow you to focus on your work without distractions, enhancing productivity and performance.
What makes headphones durable for studio use?
Durability in studio headphones is determined by the build quality and materials used. Robust construction, high-quality components, and replaceable parts contribute to a longer lifespan, making them a worthwhile investment for daily use.
Why is isolation important in studio headphones?
Isolation is important in studio headphones to prevent sound leakage and block external noise. This ensures a clean recording environment and allows you to focus on the audio without interference from outside sounds.
What is frequency response in headphones?
Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies that headphones can reproduce. A wide and flat frequency response is ideal for studio headphones as it captures the full spectrum of sound accurately, providing a true representation of the audio.
Are expensive studio headphones worth the investment?
Expensive studio headphones are often worth the investment due to their superior sound quality, comfort, and durability. They provide a better overall experience and can enhance the quality of your recordings, making them a valuable tool for professionals.
Can I use regular headphones for studio recording?
While you can use regular headphones for studio recording, they may not offer the same level of accuracy, comfort, and isolation as dedicated studio headphones. Studio headphones are specifically designed to meet the demands of professional audio work.
What should I look for when buying studio headphones?
When buying studio headphones, consider factors such as sound quality, comfort, durability, isolation, frequency response, and price. These attributes will ensure you choose headphones that meet your specific needs and provide the best value for your investment.
How do the Austrian Audio Hi-X60 and Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X compare?
The Austrian Audio Hi-X60 offers high-resolution sound and excellent build quality, making it ideal for detailed audio work. The Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X provides a balanced audio profile and exceptional comfort, making it a great choice for extended use. Both are top contenders for studio recording.