Studio headphones are made for music producers, sound engineers, podcasters and video creators, and for anyone who needs accurate, uncoloured sound. Our range has over 70 models, mostly from beyerdynamic, Audio-Technica, AKG and Sennheiser.
You will find monitoring headphones for recording, mixing and critical listening.
How to choose studio headphones
Closed-back or open-back. Closed-back headphones isolate well, so they suit recording vocals or instruments, because the microphone does not pick up sound leaking from the earcups. Open-back headphones often sound more spacious and natural, which is why many people choose them for mixing, but they let sound escape and block little outside noise.
Impedance and amplification. Headphones with an impedance of around 32 ohms work even from a laptop or phone. Models rated at 250 ohms or more usually need a headphone amplifier or a good audio interface, so check what equipment you already have before buying.
Sound character. Mixing calls for a response that is as neutral as possible, not boosted bass. For recording, isolation and comfort matter more, because you need to hear your performance without distraction. One pair rarely does both jobs equally well.
Comfort and servicing. Studio headphones are worn for hours, so weight, headband pressure and earpad material count. Look for models with replaceable earpads and a detachable cable, since these are usually the first parts to wear out.
Cable and connectors. Most studio headphones are wired, with a 3.5 mm plug and a 6.3 mm adapter. A long coiled cable is handy in a studio, while a short straight one works better beside a laptop.
Brands in our range
- beyerdynamic: a German manufacturer known in studios and broadcast rooms for its DT series of monitoring headphones, which can be repaired by replacing parts.
- Audio-Technica: a Japanese brand famous for its ATH-M series monitoring headphones, used by both musicians and content creators.
- AKG: a company founded in Vienna that created many classic studio headphones, especially open-back models for mixing.
- Sennheiser: a German manufacturer known for its HD series of reference headphones with a natural, neutral sound.
- Neumann: best known for studio microphones and monitors, so its headphones are aimed at professional audio work.
- Sony: its MDR series monitoring headphones have long been standard equipment in radio and video studios.
- Shure: a microphone maker that also offers monitoring headphones for the stage and the studio.
- ADAM Audio: a Berlin company known for studio speaker monitors.
- HIFIMAN: specialises in planar magnetic headphones, valued for their detailed sound.
- BOYA: mainly known for microphones and accessories for content creators.
Also in our range: Samsung and Kenwood headphones.
Frequently asked questions
How do studio headphones differ from ordinary headphones?
Studio headphones aim to reproduce sound without colouring it, whereas ordinary headphones often boost bass or treble to sound more appealing. This lets you hear mixing flaws and make more accurate decisions. They are usually sturdier, and some models have replaceable earpads and cables.
Do studio headphones need a headphone amplifier?
It depends on the impedance. Low-impedance models work straight from a computer or phone, while headphones rated at 250 ohms or more usually need an amplifier or an audio interface with a headphone output. The impedance given by the manufacturer shows what to expect.
Which headphones are better for recording and which for mixing?
Closed-back headphones are better for recording, because they do not leak sound into the microphone. Many people prefer open-back headphones for mixing, as they sound more spacious and natural. If you only want one pair, closed-back is the more versatile option.
Can studio headphones be used for music and gaming?
Yes, they work well for everyday listening and gaming as long as your device has a suitable connector. The sound will be more neutral than on typical consumer headphones, so some tracks may seem drier. Most models have no microphone, so you will need a separate one for calls.
