The Best Studio Headphones Reviewed

Published Categorized as Headphone Reviews, Vinyl Gear Guides

*This Article is Split up starting off with more expensive models and showing cheaper options further down the page.

The Best Studio Headphones Reviewed

Table of Contents

Our Top-Rated Studio Headphones

(On Any Budget)

Musicians, audiophiles, and music lovers, we’re here to present you with some of the best studio headphones of the year. Since it’s kind of obvious that they are used for studio work, what makes them better suited than other headphones?

It’s quite simple – they provide better signal reception and offer a flat response which makes them suitable for both recording tracks and mixing.

They come in two varieties, the open back which allows the air to circulate more freely, but on a downside, they somewhat leak the sound and don’t isolate the ambient noise as well as the closed back headphones. Our selection includes both. Here we go:

1. Sony MDR-7506

Sony MDR-7506 Professional Headphones Level 2 190839079527

Short description of main features and key specs:

We’re opening up our review with Sony’s MDR7506. This model features neodymium magnets, as well as powerful 40mm drivers that provide vividly detailed and accurate sound. The closed-ear design allows for absolute comfort while wearing them, but it also contributes to the reduction of ambient noises.

This is a corded headphone model which comes with a non-detachable 9,8-foot cord. You can, however, fold these up for easy storage, and you’ll even get a complimentary soft case as a bonus feature. Sony’s MDR7506 features a large diaphragm and boasts a rugged, very durable construction.

What we liked the most:

We were bought by the beautiful, yet sturdy design. These headphones look expensive but come at an affordable price, and what’s more – they offer premium-quality studio-level sound. The ambient noise reduction is beyond average while the overall feature configuration is top-notch.

What we thought could be improved:

Even though this is not a fatal flaw per se, most people like cordless studio headphones and this model is “wired”. Apart from that, there’s nothing we would like to see improved, as the overall performance is impeccable.

Related Read: Top Rated DJ Headphones

Our Verdict:

Great sound, stunning looks, and awesome durability – yep, if you’re looking for the best best studio headphones under 100, you’ve found them. They are well worth the cash, and that’s a major understatement.

Pros:

  • Exceptional studio-level sound quality
  • Great ambient noise reduction
  • Premium-quality features
  • Comes with a complementary soft case
  • Durable design

Cons:

  • Corded design

2. Audio Technica ATH-M50x

Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones, Black, Professional Grade, Critically Acclaimed, with Detachable Cable

Short description of main features and key specs:

Next up on the menu is ATH-M50x. They come available in five color variations, including black, blue, red, white, and gun metal, and come outfitted with bleeding edge technology.

It’s only natural that this model is favored among audiophiles since it comes from the leader in the industry (Audio Technica), and what makes it so good are the 45mm drivers, the copper-aluminium wire coils, and the circular design. The earcups can swivel up to 90-degrees while the earpads, as well as the headband are made of incredibly soft, yet rugged materials.

What we liked the most:

Excellent comfortability, outstanding audio quality, and professional-grade features were the first to catch our eyes. These headphones look amazing, they will last you for years if not decades, and it’s safe to say that they’re among the best studio headphones under $200.

What we thought could be improved:

People point out that they are not so well suited for rock and metal music fans. The lows and mids are pretty great, but the high frequencies appear to be a bit too harsh.

Our Verdict:

Maybe not the best, but they are very good studio headphones for the price. They offer premium-quality sound and an outstanding level of comfort, but the high frequencies they emit just won’t appeal to everyone.

Pros:

  • Generally great sound
  • Comfortable and padded all over
  • Available in five color variations
  • Excel in aesthetics

Cons:

  • Harsh high frequency output

3. Sennheiser HD280PRO

Sennheiser Professional HD 280 PRO Over-Ear Monitoring Headphones

Short description of main features and key specs:

Sennheiser makes some of the finest electronics on the market, and we’ve taken a gander at HD280Pro, which appears to be one of their finest works. These headphones feature a closed-ear design and are as lightweight as they are comfortable.

The ergonomic qualities are provided by ultra-comfortable light pads, but what makes them so good is the unparalleled ambient noise reduction (which will negate up to thirty-two decibels of ambient noise). The frequency response of these headphones is superior in comparison to average models, and their durability ensures that you’ll be able to use them for years to come.  

What we liked the most:

Apart from the stunning outlook, they provide high-fidelity sound. We really liked how light these headphones are and immediately assumed that they’re flimsy, but our initial presumption was wrong – these headphones are as hard as a rock.

What we thought could be improved:

Even though they are comfortable, they appear to be a bit bulky around the headband area. Apart from that, everything’s quite great.

Our Verdict:

HD280Pro is one of the finest cheap headphones you’ll find anywhere. You can look up on Amazon, Best Buy, Walmart, or even John Lewis, but we guarantee that you won’t find a better deal for the buck.

Pros:

  • Tremendous value for the cash
  • Superb ambient noise reduction
  • High-fidelity sound
  • Convenient ergonomic design

Cons:

  • Bulky headband

4. Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro

beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones For Mixing, Mastering, and Editing

Short description of main features and key specs:

Now, Beyerdynamic might not be as famous as Audio Technica, Sony, or Sennheiser, but we’ve decided to introduce this model for the sake of diversity.

These headphones feature an open over-ear design, and they were, as the brand states, specifically tailored for mixing and editing. They provide transparent bass and excellent frequency response, the entire soundstage is well-rounded and balanced while the hard-wearing robust craftsmanship ensures longevity, to say the very least.

What we liked the most:

Amazing sound quality, exceptionally convenient open over-ear design, and excellent soundstage – these would be the words that would best describe how we felt about them.

What we thought could be improved:

Just like HD280Pro, DT990 Pro is a bit bulky in the headband compartment. They’re, however, smaller in design when compared to the former.

Our Verdict:

People seldom trust underdog brands, but we implore you to think otherwise this time. DT990 Pro is one of the best-sounding headphones for the price, even though they don’t come from one of the leaders in the industry.

Pros:

  • Amazing sound quality
  • Durable and robust construction
  • Practical and very easy to use
  • Comfortable open over-ear design

Cons:

  • Underdog brand
  • Bulky headband

5. Shure SRH440

Shure SRH440 Professional Studio Headphones, Enhanced Frequency Response and Extended Range for Home and Studio Recording, with Detachable Coiled Cable, Carrying Bag and 1/4" Adapter (SRH440-BK)

Short description of main features and key specs:

If you need high-quality electronics at an approachable price, you go to Shure. These guys have graced the market with a plethora of exquisite tech pieces, and we’re reviewing their studio headphones today.

Shure’s SRH440 feature a closed-back collapsible design, they come with a detachable cable, and feature a convenient little bayoned clip that will securely lock the cable into the ear cup. You’ll get a 0,25-inch adapter, a carry back, and the user’s guide as complementary features.

What we liked the most:

The design is innovative and exquisite, the quality of sound is beyond great, and you’ll get plenty of goodies as bonus features – what’s more to like?

What we thought could be improved:

These are a bit heavier than most models we’ve reviewed so far. Even though this is not a fatal flaw, you might want to be prepared for some fatigue if you intend to use them for more than several hours.

Our Verdict:

It’s true that they are a bit heavier than average, but the quality of sound and all-around performance are more than enough to make up for this little downfall.

Pros:

  • Superb sound quality
  • Sensitive and clear
  • Outstanding ambient noise reduction
  • Very durable

Cons:

  • Heavy

6. Sennheiser HD 650

Sennheiser HD 650 - Audiophile Hi-Res Open Back Dynamic Headphone

Short description of main features and key specs:

HD 650 are high-end professional-grade headphones outfitted with bleeding-edge technology. They come supplied with special silk layers which dampen the outside noise – this comes in handy knowing that they’re open-back headphones.

In comparison to previous Sennheiser models, this one has an improved range of frequency response, spanning from 10 to 39,500 hertz. They also feature lightweight voice coils made of aluminium and high-power magnets for optimum performance.

What we liked the most:

One thing that’s awesome about HD 650 is that they’re equally good for mixing and recording. The open-back design means some of the sounds will eventually leak out, but the specially designed silk layers make sure that’s kept to a bare minimum. On top of that, the enhanced frequency response is always welcome.

What we thought could be improved:

Although it’s quite obvious that HD 650 is superior in comparison to earlier Sennheiser models in terms of performance, the aesthetic part is pretty unchanged. A more important matter is that the metal parts don’t really mold well to the wearer’s head.

Our verdict:

The 650 might not be a good example of a budget headphone set, but we can guarantee that it’s well worth the money. Excellent performance, fatigue-free experience, and a broad frequency response range are but some of the things that you’ll grow to love about these headphones.

Pros:

  • Huge frequency of response
  • High-power magnets for impeccable performance
  • Lightweight design
  • Great for both mixing and recording

Cons:

  • Won’t mold well to the wearer’s head after a while

7. Beats Studio 3

Beats Studio3 Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones - Apple W1 Headphone Chip, Class 1 Bluetooth, 22 Hours of Listening Time, Built-in Microphone - Matte Black (Latest Model)

Short description of main features and key specs:

Dre’s Beats are one of the most famous brands in the headphone industry. The Studio3 packs adaptive noise-cancelling technology, they sport a closed-back design, real-time audio calibration feature, and a huge battery lifespan (up to 22 hours on a single charge).

They’re also wireless and pack a Fast Fuel feature which allows you to zap the battery back to life in mere 10 minutes, providing you with 3 additional hours of playtime.  On a side note, these headphones are available in nine color variations and look absolutely phenomenal.

What we liked the most:

Even though Studio3 has it all, we liked ANC and Fast Fuel features the most. Namely, the former actively blocks all external noise while the latter provides the user with the ability to enjoy music for longer (not that 22 hours is a small time period, in truth).

What we thought could be improved:

The only issue with Studio3 is the headband, according to most people. Namely, the sound is great, and they’re very comfortable to wear, but the headband simply lacks any cushioning whatsoever, making it a bit hard on the wearer after a couple of hours.

Our verdict:

The aesthetics, performance, long battery lifetime, and bleeding-edge technologies. These are the all the things that made us not only think but be certain that Beats Studio3 is among the finest studio headphones ever built.

Pros:

  • Adaptive noise cancelling technology
  • Real-time audio calibration
  • Superb battery lifespan
  • Fast Fuel feature
  • Wireless

Cons:

  • No cushioning on the headband

8. Shure SRH1540

Shure SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Headphones for Clear Highs and Extended Bass, black (SRH1540-BK)

Short description of main features and key specs:

SRH1540 is a closed-back headphone set equipped with 40mm drivers that provide a well-rounded soundstage – the bass is very deep, mids are bright and crispy while the highs are as warm as can be.

The sheer construction of these headphones is pretty lightweight, featuring aircraft-grade aluminium materials and carbon fibre cap for additional durability. Overall, it’s a simple headphone set outfitted with high-quality features that promise a lot in terms of versatility and performance.

What we liked the most:

First of all, they’re tough as nails while still being extremely comfortable to wear. To top it all, they’re lightweight, so you can wave head fatigue goodbye. Its performance, however, is what makes it so valuable for the money.  

What we thought could be improved:

The only bad thing about these headphones is the clamping pressure – the cups tend to dig in the ears after a while, which might (or might not) feel a bit uncomfortable to some people after a couple of weeks.

Our verdict:

Shure’s among the most popular brands in this department, and SRH1540 is certainly a good representative of their quality. This headphone set stands for premium all-around headphones, so if you have the buck, don’t miss out.

Pros:

  • Excellent sound quality
  • Great sound isolation
  • Lightweight and superior durability
  • All-around performance

Cons:

  • High clamping pressure

9. Shure SRH1840

Shure SRH1840 Premium Open-back Headphones for Smooth, Extended Highs and Accurate Bass

Short description of main features and key specs:

Here we’re looking at yet another fine model from Shure, the SRH1840 which, unlike the previous model, are open-back studio headphones.

Essentially, SRH1840 and SRH1540 come supplied with a similar set of features, although there are a couple of differences worth mentioning. They’re both made of aircraft-grade aluminium materials and feature 40mm neodymium drivers, but this one has a different design which makes it better for recording tracks (whereas SRH1540 is perfect for mixing).

What we liked the most:

Take all the benefits SRH1540 provides and add ‘good for casual listening’ on the list and you’ll have SRH1840. These are versatile headphones that are held in high regard by music engineers and audiophiles alike.

What we thought could be improved:

In all fairness, closed-back headphones are just slightly better for studio work, so if that’s your primary concern, we suggest you pick SRH1540 instead of this model. If you’re looking for a more versatile approach (especially if you intend to use them to actually enjoy in your music), the SRH1840 is a perfect choice.

Our verdict:

The big guys at Shure just can’t make a bad headphone set, but even so, they’ve outdone themselves with the SRH1840’s. They’re absolutely great for the money, and then some, so if you’re on the market for quality, you know you want these.

Pros:

  • Superb sound quality
  • Robust construction
  • Lightweight and minimum fatigue
  • Great value for the money

Cons:

  • The previous version is better for people who want to dabble with studio work exclusively

10. Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro

beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro Open Studio Headphones

Short description of main features and key specs:

Last on our list is a big hitter – the DT 1990 Pro. These headphones feature 45mm Tesla drivers that provide unparalleled performance, ultra-soft headband and cups, and pack a well-rounded soundstage.  

The brand also pitched in a couple of complementary features, including two pads with completely different audio characteristics, two sets of cables, and a hard carry case.

What we liked the most:

The sound quality of these is simply above everything within the price range. To top it off, they’re specifically designed for studio work and come with both analytical and balanced replaceable ear pads, making them pretty much the most versatile headphones we’ve covered so far.

What we thought could be improved:

Frankly, the only thing that could be improved is the price, as they, metaphorically speaking, cost an arm and a leg.

Our verdict:

Though they’re rather expensive, DT 1990 Pro have it all. They’re powerful, sleek, pack a huge punch for the buck, and come with gratis goodies. What’s more to like?

Pros:

  • Unmatched audio quality and versatility
  • Come with a set of complementary features
  • Premium Tesla drivers
  • Huge frequency range

Cons:

  • Expensive

Studio Headphones With Good Sound

(On a Budget)

There are brands that never fail to deliver the promise of quality – such is the case with Sennheiser, Shure, Audio Technica, and such. Here we had an opportunity to see that even underdog brands can shine, such is the case with Beyerdynamics.

Studio headphones usually cost quite a lot, and in fact, in most cases, you’ll have to pay over $200 to get a boutique level option.

Related Read: Top Rated In Ear Monitors

After hours of research we’ve managed to dig up several models that come from prominent leaders in the industry and don’t cost too much – we hope that you liked our selection of the best studio headphones, and we wish you all the luck with your studio rehearsals/recording sessions!

Studio headphones usually don’t come cheap. In fact, there are models that cost way beyond $1000. If you’re on a budget and need a set of these cans for your rehearsals, or any other type of studio work, you’ve come to the right place.

1. Sony MDRV6

Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone

Our first pick is Sony’s MDRV6. Though this brand is famous for delivering premium-quality products, this is one of their cheaper cans that actually work pretty well in the studio. Of course, bleeding-edge technologies weren’t totally excluded, as this model packs 40mm neodymium magnets, a broad frequency response range, and a decently comfortable design.

One of the best things about MDRV6 headphones is that they don’t put up a lot of clamping pressure, so they feel decently good even after hours of wearing. The soundstage is decently balanced considering the price, and sonically they perform well beyond average.

The bad thing about them, however, is that they’re kind of uncomfortable commuting due to the heavy cable. It also lacks inline controls, so it’s not exactly easy to use them in these situations. That’s just another reason why they’re so good for studios, though.

So, the bottom line is that these headphones are a bit old, their versatility leaves a lot to be desired, but they sport high-quality drivers and a big frequency response range. That being said, they’re more than worth the money.

Pros:

  • Vast frequency response range
  • Powerful 40mm neodymium driver units
  • Solid construction
  • Balanced soundstage

Cons:

  • Bad for commuting and certain forms of casual listening
  • No inline controls on the cable
  • Very old model

2. KRK KNS 6400

KRK KNS 6400 On-Ear Closed Back Circumaural Studio Monitor Headphones

Next on the menu is KRK’s KNS 6400 on-ear closed-back monitor headphone set. Although not exactly cheaper than Sony’s cans, these headphones pack quite a punch for the buck due to being equipped with high-quality features and premium technologies.

They come supplied with medium-sized cups padded with memory foam. The headband also features a pad of this kind, so these headphones are decently comfortable to wear, even for hours nonstop. Additionally, the band is relatively flexible, and the cups can swivel up to 90-degrees, but the overall construction lags a bit in terms of durability.

The soundstage of KNS 6400 is extremely balanced, and the sound signature neutral, though certain things could’ve been done better sound-wise. First and most importantly, the bass is a bit low and unpronounced – you won’t feel this lack of bass in certain music genres, but it’s pretty weak altogether.

That’s the reason why you’ll need a good EQ to set things properly. Virtually any mixing console could make them sound pretty awesome, though.

Pros:

  • Highly comfortable
  • Huge value for the money
  • Balanced soundstage
  • Decent sonic performance

Cons:

  • Low bass

3. Samson SR850

Samson Technologies SR850 Semi Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones, Black

Next up is Samson’s SR850 semi-open set of studio headphones. Though they don’t look as beautiful as Cowin’s E7 Pro, they surely do bring other benefits to the table, such as exceptional frequency response, super big drivers, and superior passive noise isolation.

The first thing you’ll notice about these headphones is that they were specifically built for studio work and critical listening. They come with a relatively short cable, which means that casual listening and commuting with them might be a bit uncomfortable.

What’s great about them is the adjustable headband complemented by the slightly oversized earcups. Namely, these two features ensure long-term comfort, so you can rest assured that you’ll be able to monitor and mix your tracks for hours without experiencing ear fatigue.

The big driver units we mentioned are 50mm drivers that provide a frequency response range that spans from 10Hz to 30000Hz. The lows could’ve been done a little better, but the mid-range and the high section are both equally amazing.

Basically, if you’re looking for cheap studio headphones, you might as well give Samson’s SR850 open back cans a shot.

Pros:

  • Wide frequency response range
  • Superb 50mm drivers
  • Excellent sound isolation
  • Perfect for studio work

Cons:

  • Bad for casual listening
  • Short cable

4. Rockville Pro-M50

Rockville PRO-M50 Studio Headphones w/ Detachable Coil Cable, Case+Extra Ear Pad

Right after Samson we’re moving on to Rockville’s Pro-M50. In terms of design, they resemble Audio Technica’s style a lot, which is pretty awesome in regard to aesthetics and build quality. They’re made of highly durable yet decently elastic-plastic materials, the headband also packs leather reinforcement for added durability and comfort. Simply put, they’re definitely built to last.

The cable is decently long, which comes surprisingly handy for casual listening and commuting. It’s also detachable and decently robust.

Sound-wise, these cans perform rather great sonically, although there’s some room for improvement concerning the high section.

One of the best things about these headphones is that they come exceptionally cheap. They cost only half as much when compared to earlier models we’ve reviewed.

Pros:

  • Quite robust construction
  • Solid audio performance
  • Moderate ambient noise isolation
  • Comfortable to wear

Cons:

  • Mediocre high section of the soundstage

5. Edifier H840

Edifier H840 Audiophile Over-The-Ear Headphones - Hi-Fi Over-Ear Noise-Isolating Audiophile Closed Monitor Stereo Headphone - Black

Next up is Edifier’s H840. Though these cans don’t pack a lot of features, they look great, they’re durable, and perform exceptionally well in studio environment. In essence, the H840 headphones are low-budget cans that sport an elegant design, a set of comfortable earcups, and a rather long cable that can be used with smart devices and PCs.

In terms of appearance, the H840 looks just great. It comes available in three color options, including the black, blue, and white. They’re also decently durable, as the headband features leather headrests and steel reinforcement, so given proper maintenance they will last for a couple of years, to say the least.

Where these cans excel the most is in terms of comfort. Namely, they feature an ergonomic over-ear design and a surprisingly light build, which makes them very pleasant to wear at all times. The cups are also quite big, which means reduced clamping pressure, which is again great since you should be expecting less ear fatigue.

Lastly, the K840 packs a set of 40mm drivers that were finely tuned to perfection, providing a well-rounded soundstage, deep bass, and plenty of treble.

The only problem with these headphones is that the cable is perhaps too long in certain aspects, and it’s also not removable. Furthermore, some people state that the band doesn’t have enough padding, but judging by the padding on the cups, there’s plenty of comfort to be enjoyed.

Pros:

  • Very cheap
  • Exceptionally comfortable overall
  • Excels in aesthetics
  • Amazing sonic performance

Cons:

  • Long, non-detachable cable
  • Small amount of padding on the band

Conclusion

Let’s be frank, cheap studio headphones could never match the sonic performance of expensive models – cheap drivers will only give you so much, flimsy construction materials are commonplace, and generally, the market is just so vast that the majority of ‘cheap’ models aren’t worth it.

Luckily for you, we’ve taken the time to do thorough research and have come up with a list of the best cheap studio headphones for your leisure. Enjoy our picks!

By Robert Halvari

My name is Robert Halvari - audio engineer and a total audiophile. I love vinyl because it has that natural character which brings music to life. I've been using and testing vinyl record players for around 15 years and I'm sharing my love and knowledge of vinyl by publishing all I know at Notes On Vinyl

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