A good set of headphones is an absolute must-have for every musician, engineer and producer. We curated this list of best studio headphones for recording, mixing and mastering to help you hear what you need each step of the production process. While tracking, unless you can clearly and accurately hear yourself and other tracks you’re playing along to, it’s likely you’ll run into issues with pitch and timing. When mixing and mastering, while it’s crucial to have quality studio monitors, it’s always great to have a pair of reliable reference headphones for an added perspective—especially when your monitors and/or acoustic treatment are less than ideal.

Every music lover has their favorite headphones for traveling, and if your hobby or profession is music, the importance of having the right set of cans on the go is tenfold. In the studio or on the road, you count on your phones to listen to the mix as accurately as possible, and you need the tools to do it precisely (and comfortably, too). Read on to learn about what to look for in a set of headphones for each step of the production process, and some of our staff-picked recommendations.

Table of Contents

The Differences Between Closed-Back and Open-Back Headphones
Best Headphones for Recording
   Shure SRH1540
   Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
   AKG K371
Best Headphones for Recording Vocals
   Sennheiser HD 280 PRO
   Sony MDR-7506
   Shure SRH440A
Best Headphones for Recording Drummers
   Vic Firth SIH2
   Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune
   Shure SE215
Best Headphones for Mixing and Mastering
   Sennheiser HD 490 PRO
   Neumann NDH 30
   Austrian Audio Hi-X65 Pro
   Steven Slate VSX
Best All-Around Headphones
   beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO
   Sterling Audio S452
   Audeze LCD-X
   Focal Lensys
Other Considerations
In Closing

The Differences Between Closed-Back and Open-Back Headphones

First, it’s key to differentiate between closed- and open-back headphones. Each have their strengths and weaknesses depending on the application, and some tasks exclusively utilize one type. For example, when tracking, it’s always wise to go with a set of closed-back headphones. By nature of their construction, closed-back headphones provide more isolation than open-back headphones. If you attempted to record with open-back headphones, which provide little-to-no isolation at all, whatever is playing through your cans would leak right out back into your microphone. This could potentially complicate editing and mixing down the line.

While it’s established that open-back headphones are not ideal for tracking, their openness and lack of mechanical resonance and filtering can lend themselves to superior, more accurate sound. These qualities make them a suitable option for mixing, mastering and general listening. They can also be more comfortable for extended listening sessions, as they air themselves out more than closed-back headphones do. They’re also a great solution for circumventing the dreaded “sweaty ear syndrome.”

Best Headphones for Recording

	Driver Size	Frequency Response	Weight	Open- or Closed-Back
Shure SRH1540	40 mm	5Hz–25kHz	10.1 oz	Closed-back
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x	40 mm	15Hz–28kHz	10 oz	Closed-back
AKG K371	50 mm	5Hz–40kHz	9 oz	Closed-back

Your choice of headphones for recording will largely hinge on your needs related to volume and isolation. For instance, when overdubbing or recording quieter instruments or parts, having a set of phones with solid isolation is paramount. Because the gain would need to be turned up on the mic preamp, your mic would pick up bleed from your cans much more so than if you were recording live in the same room with a band or ensemble.

Conversely, spillover from loud amps, drums and other instruments could cause issues as well. With higher levels of external noise, it can become even more necessary to shut out those distractions so you can focus on hearing yourself and the elements you need in your mix. Oftentimes, the reverberations of the room you’re performing in can cloud what’s being played in real time. So, anyone, from guitarists and horn players to keyboardists and vocalists, can benefit from a reliable set of headphones.

If you own or manage a studio that records bands and larger ensembles, consider your budget as you’ll likely be purchasing at least six pairs. It’s common for larger studios to carry multiple sets of different types of industry-standard headphones, too, as many artists and engineers will develop a familiarity or preference for one over another.

Shure SRH1540

Why They’re Cool: You’ll get the premium comfort you need for long sessions paired with an impressive soundstage that’s similar to popular open-back models.

Things to Consider:

• Extended high end and warm bass response
• Lightweight construction makes them ideal for tracking live
• Replaceable ear pads ensure years of comfortable use

Pictured: Shure SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Headphones

It’s not often a pair of closed-back headphones can outperform similarly priced open-back models, but the Shure SRH1540 serve up an expansive soundstage and an equally stunning frequency response. Their lightweight, aircraft-grade aluminum alloy yoke and carbon fiber cap make them a perfect fit for recording drummers, plus their audiophile-worthy low THD (total harmonic distortion) ensure these cans will be a welcome addition to any studio.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

Why They’re Cool: These cans are one of the most popular over-ear models available and have become a modern-day studio staple.

Things to Consider:

• Deep, accurate bass response fit for modern music production
• Swiveling ear cups for easy, one-ear monitoring
• Affordable price makes it easy to stock up your studio

Pictured: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Closed-Back Professional Studio Monitor Headphones

Found in studios and on stages far and wide, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x has become synonymous with contemporary music production. These closed-back headphones offer excellent isolation, and are a popular choice for tracking, producing and casual listening. Their foldable design makes them ideal for engineers on the go, as well as DJs and producers looking for the prominent low-end response that is an absolute necessity when creating music in the 21st century.

AKG K371

Why They’re Cool: These are a top-reviewed, highly portable pair of closed-back headphones with excellent bass response.

Things to Consider:

• A well-rounded model fit for editing, mixing and more
• Popular with podcasters, at-home listeners and AKG loyalists
• NAMM TEC award winner

Pictured: AKG K371 Closed-Back Studio Headphones

Listening purists and working studio personnel have long relied on the accuracy and reliability of AKG headphones. The AKG K371 are a prime example of the quality and clarity AKG have been known to deliver throughout history. With a neutral response, you can be confident in your production decisions, and their mobile-friendly design, supreme comfort and balanced sound make these headphones a popular choice among a wide variety of audio enthusiasts.

Best Headphones for Recording Vocals

	Driver Size	Frequency Response	Weight	Open- or Closed-Back
Sennheiser HD 280 PRO	40 mm	8Hz–25kHz	10 oz	Closed-back
Sony MDR-7506	40 mm	10Hz–20kHz	8.1 oz	Closed-back
Shure SRH440A	40 mm	10Hz–22kHz	9.45 oz	Closed-back

It’s every engineer’s favorite: vocal tracking day. Make it an even better time by being prepared with the right headphones for the occasion. It’s no secret vocalists can be particular about their recording sessions—especially the way they hear themselves while tracking—so it’s a good idea to have multiple options handy. If you’re a singer, familiarizing yourself (and even bringing some trusty headphones with you) can add a much-needed level of comfort to your sessions, so you can focus on performing your best.

Sennheiser HD 280 PRO

Why They’re Cool: These are uncompromising closed-back headphones that deliver a response similar to higher-end Sennheiser models.

Things to Consider:

• Excellent isolation ideal for blocking out unwanted distractions
• Extremely efficient and able to handle the demands of louder performers
• Clear, true sound, perfect for vocalists who want to hear every detail of their voice

Pictured: Sennheiser HD 280 PRO Closed-Back Heapdhones

Going with Sennheiser HD 280 PRO headphones is an excellent choice for recording vocals. Boasting up to 32dB of external noise attenuation, these closed-back phones provide the isolation vocalists need to lay down clean tracks, even at high volume. With easily replaceable cables, ear pads and headband padding, they’re designed to outlast even the most demanding session schedules.

Sony MDR-7506

Why They’re Cool: It’s hard to find a pair of headphones that nearly everyone agrees on, but these time-tested, engineer-approved cans get positive reviews again and again.

Things to Consider:

• Clear and accurate midrange, perfect for vocals  
• Superior comfort ideal for long sessions
• An affordable, professional choice for a wide range of applications

Pictured: Sony MDR-7506 Professional Closed-Back Headphones

One of the most ubiquitous studio headphones is the classic Sony MDR-7506 professional closed-back headphones. Their exceptionally flat frequency response has made them a staple at virtually every major recording studio. It’s essential that your headphones don’t exaggerate or cut a particular frequency range for the sake of listening pleasure—you want your monitors to be brutally honest. These accomplish that end masterfully, which also makes them a great choice for mix checking.

Shure SRH440A

Why They’re Cool: These closed-back headphones feature Shure’s trademark, rock-solid sound and construction, making them a popular, reliable option for any studio.

Things to Consider:

• More accurate, less “hyped” sounding than most closed-back models
• Includes a nearly 10' detachable cable, giving vocalists more freedom to move around
• Present midrange, perfect for recording, editing and mixing vocals

Pictured: Shure SRH440A Professional Studio Headphones

The Shure SRH440A make an excellent addition to any recording setup. Long trusted by engineers and performers alike, Shure has become a household name when it comes to durability and reliability, and these headphones are no exception. Sturdy and accurate, the SRH440A are a solid choice for any tracking session, but excel when it comes to midrange-rich production like vocal recording.

Best Headphones for Recording Drummers

	Driver Size	Frequency Response	Weight	In-ear, Open- or Closed-Back
Vic Firth SIH2	50 mm	20Hz–20kHz	10.9 oz	Closed-back
Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune	40 mm	8Hz–40kHz	12.5 oz	Closed-back
Shure SE215	Single high-definition micro-driver	22Hz–17.5kHz	1 oz	In-ear

When it comes to tracking drums, isolation from both external and internal sources is vital. While you’re thrashing away at your drums and cymbals, you may need to hear your click track, bass and other instrument tracks loud and clear, even with you pushing upwards of 100dB on your own instrument. If your cans aren’t providing enough isolation, you run the risk of cranking your guide tracks too high and damaging your hearing. And for those quieter parts of the song, you don’t want your phones leaking into your many mics, accentuated by compression, limiting and any other processing in your chain.

Vic Firth SIH2

Why They’re Cool: Built specifically for drummers, these cans are an obvious choice for long days behind the kit.

Things to Consider:

• Premium padding and rotating ear cups conform perfectly to your head
• 20dB of passive noise reduction keep the click track in, and the noise out
• Suitable for the studio or live performances

Pictured: Vic Firth SIH2 Isolation Headphones

While this dilemma poses quite the conundrum for many drummers, there are a few headphones—all of which are closed-back—that stand out from the crowd to give you just what you need. That’s where the Vic Firth SIH2 Stereo Isolation headphones swoop in to save the day—and your hearing. Hailing from a maker who’s earned its trust from drummers the world over, the SIH2 are truly purpose-designed headphones for drummers. With large drivers providing outstanding low end, clean mids and crystal-clear high end—in addition to up to 20dB of noise reduction—they’ve been designed to keep your ears safe from dangerous SPL and tracks free of bleed.

Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune

Why They’re Cool: These wireless, closed-back headphones can tune to your individual hearing preferences when paired with the Zildjian app.

Things to Consider:

• Wireless performance perfectly suited for drummers
• Adjustable dampening allows you to block out unwanted noise or partially hear your kit
• Replaceable ear pads and headband ensure years of use

Pictured: Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune Headphones

One of the most versatile (and sleek) headphones to ever come across our console, the Zildjian ALCHEM-E Perfect Tune are truly in a class of their own. Made by drumming mainstay Zildjian, these cans are a drummer’s dream. Wireless capabilities mean you can play unencumbered by a tether, app control lets you customize your listening experience to your own preferences, and a comfortable, yet secure fit make these closed-back headphones a standout option for drummers and casual listeners alike.

Shure SE215

Why They’re Cool: These popular in-ear monitors provide more freedom and a larger range of motion than traditional over-ear models, as well as an impressively detailed sound.

Things to Consider:

• 37dB of ambient noise reduction
• Less intrusive than normal over-ear headphones
• Multiple ear tip sizes for customizable fit

Pictured: Shure SE215 Dynamic Microdriver Earphones

Performing musicians will find the Shure SE215 a familiar pair of reliable in-ear monitors. An onstage staple, they feature an impressive amount of low end with the added benefit of a smaller, less cumbersome size and an extremely effective level of isolation. Comfortable enough to wear throughout a live performance, they’re a formidable option for drummers in search of the perfect monitoring option while recording.

Best Headphones for Mixing and Mastering

	Driver Size	Frequency Response	Weight	Open- or Closed-Back
Sennheiser HD 490 PRO	38 mm	5Hz–36kHz	9.1 oz	Open-back
Neumann NDH 30	38 mm	12Hz–34kHz	12.3 oz	Open-back
Austrian Audio Hi-X65	44 mm	5Hz–28kHz	10.9 oz	Open-back
Steven Slate VSX Modeling Headphones	40 mm	10Hz–20kHz	10.6 oz	Closed-back

We’ll start this section with a disclaimer: You should never mix or master exclusively with headphones. Headphones can be an integral asset to your workflow, especially when it comes to level-setting and identifying problematic frequencies, but they lack in stereo imaging, which only studio monitors can provide. It can be difficult to spot phase issues when working entirely in headphones, which will ultimately leave you guessing when it comes to how your mix will translate to other listening environments. Judging how your left and right sounds interact with each other is something that you’re going to need quality, purpose-made speakers for. So, while it’s important to have a solid set of studio monitors that you’re intimately familiar with, having suitable headphones for mixing and mastering will certainly give you an invaluable perspective—and an upper hand—in the process.

If you’re working late into the night, or are in close proximity to others in a shared environment, having a low-volume monitoring option is necessary to work sustainably and live harmoniously. When you’re on the road, or if your space doesn’t have ideal acoustics, headphones can provide consistent, instant clarity no matter the quality of your acoustic space. So long as your surroundings are quiet enough, you can be productive anywhere with the right phones. Remember that listeners are increasingly hearing music through headphones, so having a similar method of reference, to ensure it translates as desired, can be a vital tool in your arsenal.

Beware of trendy consumer headphones that are hyped for specific genres, as these can show an exaggerated low and high end with a scooped midrange, for example. You can check with these for an occasional reference to make sure it sounds good, but you’ll want your go-to mixing and mastering headphones to be as candid as possible. That means an even (or “flat”) frequency response across the range of human hearing—typically from 20Hz–20kHz. Usually, if your mix or master sounds decent on flat-frequency response monitors, it’ll sound at least as good on a consumer speaker or pair of headphones.

Sennheiser HD 490 PRO

Why They’re Cool: These best-selling headphones are detailed enough to handle the most delicate tasks, like professional mixing and mastering.

Things to Consider:

• Open-back design provides less isolation than similarly priced closed-back models
• dearVR MIX-SE plug-in simulates the acoustic environments of world-renowned mixing studios
• Wide, accurate frequency response is tailor-made for modern music production

Pictured: Sennheiser HD 490 PRO Professional Reference Studio Heapdhones

Sennheiser open-back headphones are well known for their accuracy and detailed high-end response. Coveted by engineers far and wide, the Sennheiser HD 490 PRO deliver the sound you need to make critical production decisions on a wide variety of projects. Their soundstage is excellent and extremely reminiscent of an actual pair of studio monitors, plus, with replaceable ear pads, you can embrace their natural and organic sound for years to come.

Neumann NDH 30

Why They’re Cool: Neumann’s long legacy of high-quality audio gear is strongly represented in the construction and function of these easy-to-listen-to headphones.

Things to Consider:

• Open-back design provides an “unhyped” picture of your audio
• Warmer, extended bass response is perfect for unfatiguing long sessions
• Natural soundstage translates well to other playback mediums

Pictured: Neuamnn NDH 30 Open-Back Dynamic Studio Headphones

If you’re looking for something less harsh than other modern-day headphones, the Neumann NDH 30 are your perfect match. With excellent low-distortion performance, these open-back cans excel at reproducing the low- and low-mid frequency areas, making them ideal for mixing and mastering productions with lots of bass information. Existing Neumann purists will find these highly reviewed headphones a familiar, yet warmer option that are perfectly suited for dialing in the ideal mix.

Austrian Audio Hi-X65

Why They’re Cool: Purpose built for mixing, mastering and audiophile listening, these headphones boast a spacious and open response.

Things to Consider:

• Excel at exposing errors and “blind spots” in tracks
• Exclusive High Excursion Drivers enhance airflow and deliver balanced response
• NAMM TEC Award winner

Pictured: Austrian Audio Hi-X65 Open-Back Headphones

Handmade in Vienna, the crystal-clear Austrian Audio Hi-X65 headphones are some of the most revealing available. Every component is serviceable and easily replaceable, so you’ll be able to enjoy pristine audio for years to come. These open-back cans are known for their comfortable fit and crisp but not harsh high end. They continue to garner rave reviews by engineers and serious listeners alike, making them a perfect contender for your next pair of go-to mixing and mastering headphones.

Steven Slate VSX

Why They’re Cool: These headphones provide a rock-solid, portable solution for mixing and mastering in less-than-ideal acoustic environments.

Things to Consider:

• VSX modeling software allows you to check your mix in multiple environments
• Patented APS system harnesses air pressure to optimize bass response
• Closed-back design so you can listen and work anywhere

Pictured: Steven Slate Audio VSX Modeling Headphones Essentials Edition

The benefits of modeling software can make a huge impact on the sonic quality of your productions, and the Steven Slate VSX modeling headphones prove it. Not only will these save you tons of money acoustically treating your room, but they can also function as multiple environments for you to check your mix in. Emulating everything from world-class mastering studios to car stereos, these closed-back cans are an obvious choice for someone looking for the flexibility modern engineers need to churn out professional-quality mixes and masters.

Best All-Around Headphones

	Driver Size	Frequency Response	Weight	Open- or Closed-Back
beyerdynamic DT770 PRO	45 mm	5Hz–35kHz	9.5 oz	Closed-back
Sterling S452	45 mm	15Hz–28kHz	9.52 oz	Closed-back
Audeze LCD-X	106 mm	10Hz–50kHz	22.4 oz	Open-back
Focal Lensys	40 mm	5Hz–22kHz	10.8 oz	Closed-back

We’ve detailed headphones that do specific jobs particularly well, but many musicians don’t limit themselves to being solely audio engineers, producers, vocalists or instrumentalists. These all-rounder types need a set of headphones that can handle several different applications and deliver the sonic goods for each one without any significant compromises along the way.

beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO

Why They’re Cool: Some of the best-selling headphones available, these closed-back cans provide superior comfort and fantastic bass response.

Things to Consider:

• Closed-back design provides a slightly more exciting listening experience
• Extremely comfortable, replaceable ear pads
• Detailed listening experience similar to Hi-Fi headphones

Pictured: beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Closed-Back Studio Headphones

An excellent alternative option for tracking, producing and mixing is the long-popular beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO. One of the key strengths of these headphones is their excellent sub-bass extension. You’ll be able to carve and craft your low end with ease, making these a popular choice for modern music production. Also, due to their closed-back design, they’re a fantastic option for tracking sessions and listening on the go.

Sterling Audio S452

Why They’re Cool: Popular with DJs and recording artists who like to wear their cans “one ear off,” these closed-back headphones sport enhanced low-end response.

Things to Consider:

• 180-degree rotatable ear cups
• Compact size and sturdy build are made to withstand gigging
• Replaceable ear cushions and removeable cable ensure years of use

Pictured: Sterling Audio S452 Studio Headphones

The flexible and versatile Sterling Audio S452 headphones are the perfect counterpart to your DJ career, but as strong a contender as these are in the studio or on the stage, they also make perfect casual listening cans. Cross functionality can be hard to find these days, but this closed-backed offering from Sterling Audio excels at everything from gigging to long studio sessions. With stand-out, extended low-end response, you’ll be able to monitor sub bass information with ease and clarity to make critical mix decisions, or enjoy your favorite records.

Audeze LCD-X

Why They’re Cool: These top-of-the-line headphones offer superb accuracy and have become a staple among mastering engineers and audiophiles alike.

Things to Consider:

• Planar magnetic drivers deliver extremely precise and detailed audio
• Excellent transient reproduction
• Extended frequency response provides an open and natural sound

Pictured: Audeze LCD-X Headphones

If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that let you hear music as the artist truly intended, the Audeze LCD-X are an obvious choice. Designed for extremely critical listening and discerning audiophiles, these premium headphones are an essential tool for hearing the subtlest of details. Clear and precise enough for professional mixing and mastering engineers, they reproduce any genre of music faithfully and accurately on an enjoyable and spacious soundstage.

Focal Lensys

Why They’re Cool: This extremely “flat” pair of closed-back headphones offer a beautiful soundstage and the accuracy you need for any production.

Things to Consider:

• Neutral tonal balance
• Closed-back design makes them ideal for working on the go
• Provide the comfort and clarity you need, session after session

Pictured: Focal Lensys Studio Headphones

Engineers, producers and artists need a pair of headphones they can trust anywhere they go, and the Focal Lensys pair perfectly with any task professionals of any type can throw at them. Whether you need a high-end pair of tracking headphones for your vocalist, or the definition you can trust to make critical mixing and mastering decisions, the Lensys bring it all to the table. These headphones are tailor-made to give you the confidence you need in any acoustic environment.

Other Considerations

To maximize any set of headphones, you’ll need a good headphone amplifier that suits your specific needs. A headphone amp will provide superior clarity, detail and dynamic range, and if you need multiple outputs, it may be necessary to get one. In addition to a quality cue amp, if you’re running a professional studio of any size, extension cables, 1/8”–1/4" adapters and replacement pads are a must.

Having sets that come with a detachable cable will save you the headache and resources down the road when a cable inevitably fails. And, while Bluetooth capability may be a nice convenience in a pinch, it’s not ideal for mixing and mastering. Using Bluetooth can introduce noise, loss of quality and latency—which could be especially problematic when tracking.

In Closing

No matter what your role is in music production, there’s a pair of headphones that is well suited for the task at hand—whether they be for general use, tracking vocals or drums, or mixing and mastering. There are no one-size-fits-all headphones ideal for every stage of the process. However, there are appropriate choices for each, with specialized feature sets that make each of the aforementioned headphones ideal for specific uses.

It can take some experimentation, but learning the ins and outs of what to look for in a set of headphones will save you time and money in the long run. Taking into account quality, comfort, application and budget is a good place to start.