Find Your Perfect Match: Best Headphones for Mixing
Jillian Hunt
June 23, 2023 6:08 am
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11 min read
Welcome to our guide on the best headphone for mixing! As an audio professional, you know how crucial it is to have the right equipment for the job. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide to help you find the perfect pair of headphones for your music production needs.
Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned pro, we’ve got you covered. We’ll be providing options for a range of budgets and feature requirements. From premium headphones to budget options, we’ve done the research and testing so you don’t have to.
So sit back, relax, and let us help you find your perfect match.
Understanding Headphone Specs for Mixing
When it comes to selecting headphones for mixing, understanding the technical specifications is crucial. The following specs are important to consider:
| Impedance: | Measured in ohms, impedance refers to how much power the headphones need to produce a certain volume. A higher impedance requires more power, meaning you may need a headphone amplifier to drive the headphones properly. |
|---|---|
| Frequency Response: | Measuring the range of frequencies the headphones can reproduce, a wider range generally means better sound quality and accuracy. |
| Sensitivity: | Measured in decibels (dB), sensitivity refers to how loud a headphone is for a given amount of power. A higher sensitivity means that the headphones can produce louder sounds at lower volumes. |
It’s important to note that these technical specifications are not the only factors that affect headphone performance. However, they are a good starting point for selecting headphones that will give you a clear and accurate representation of your mix.
Understanding Impedance
Impedance measures how much power the headphones need to produce a certain volume. It’s important to choose headphones with an impedance that is compatible with the device powering them. For example, headphones with high impedance require more power to drive them and may not work well with devices like smartphones or laptops that do not output enough power. In contrast, low impedance headphones may not work well with headphone amplifiers designed for high impedance headphones.
Understanding Frequency Response
Frequency response measures the range of frequencies that headphones can reproduce. A wider range generally means better sound quality and accuracy, as the headphones are able to reproduce a wider range of frequencies. However, it’s important to note that a frequency response that is too wide may not necessarily be better, as it can result in exaggerated bass or treble that does not accurately reflect the mix.
Understanding Sensitivity
Sensitivity is a measure of how loud a headphone can get for a given amount of power. Headphones with higher sensitivity can produce louder sounds at lower volumes, which can be useful in noisy environments. However, it’s important to note that excessively high sensitivity can result in distortion and should be avoided.
Understanding these technical specifications is essential for selecting headphones that will give you an accurate representation of your mix. By considering these specs as well as other factors like comfort and build quality, you can find the perfect headphones for your needs.
Top Premium Headphones for Mixing
If you’re looking for the ultimate mixing experience, investing in a premium pair of headphones is a wise choice. These headphones offer unparalleled sound quality and exceptional accuracy, making them a favorite among seasoned producers and engineers.
| Headphone Model | Key Features | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sennheiser HD 800 | Open-back design, wide frequency range, natural and transparent audio reproduction | Classical and acoustic music, mastering |
| Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro | Exceptional soundstage, precise and detailed mid-range, interchangeable ear pads and cables | Electronic and hip-hop music, critical listening |
| Audeze LCD-X | Planar magnetic drivers, high-quality craftsmanship, rich bass and clear highs | Movie and game sound design, mixing and mastering |
While these headphones come with a premium price tag, they’re worth the investment if you’re serious about your music production. Not only will they provide you with accurate and detailed sound, but they’re also built to last.
It’s important to note that premium headphones have specific sound signatures, which may make them better suited for certain genres or use cases. Before making your purchase, consider what type of music you’ll be mixing and what features are most important to you.
Best Mid-Range Headphones for Mixing
Looking for a high-quality mixing performance without breaking the bank? These mid-range headphones have got you covered.
| Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Shure SRH1540 | Sony MDR-7506 |
|---|---|---|
| Pros: Exceptional clarity and detail across all frequencies. Robust build quality. Comfortable fit. | Pros: Smooth and accurate sound with excellent bass response. Lightweight design for extended listening sessions. | Pros: Affordable price point. Accurate sound representation. Lightweight and portable. |
| Cons: Sound stage can feel slightly closed-in. Some users find the bass response too strong. | Cons: Expensive for mid-range headphones. Limited sound isolation. | Cons: Build quality can feel flimsy. Slightly recessed midrange. |
| Suitable for: Electronic music, hip-hop, and pop | Suitable for: Jazz, classical, and acoustic music | Suitable for: Podcasting, voice-over work, and mobile recording |
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is known for its exceptional clarity and detail across all frequencies, making it a popular choice for electronic music, hip-hop, and pop production. Its robust build quality and comfortable fit make it suitable for extended mixing sessions. However, some users feel that the sound stage can feel slightly closed-in, and the bass response may be too strong for some tastes.
The Shure SRH1540 offers a smooth and accurate sound with excellent bass response, making it an ideal choice for jazz, classical, and acoustic music. Its lightweight design allows for extended listening sessions, but the limited sound isolation may be a concern for some users. It’s worth noting that these headphones are on the pricey side for mid-range options.
The Sony MDR-7506 is an affordable option that still delivers accurate sound representation. Its lightweight and portable design make it suitable for podcasting, voice-over work, and mobile recording. However, the build quality can feel flimsy, and the midrange can feel slightly recessed compared to other options.
Best Budget Headphones for Mixing
If you’re on a tight budget but still want to invest in headphones that deliver reliable mixing performance, there are several budget-friendly options available. Here are three of the best budget headphones for mixing:
| Headphone | Key Features |
|---|---|
| AKG K240 Studio | This semi-open headphone features a 55 ohm impedance and a wide frequency response of 15 Hz to 25 kHz for accurate sound reproduction. The self-adjusting leather headband adds comfort, and the headphones come with a 3m cable. |
| Tascam TH-02 | These closed-back headphones offer a 32 ohm impedance and a frequency response of 18 Hz to 22 kHz, making them suitable for mixing and casual listening. The lightweight design makes them comfortable for extended use, and the headphones come with a 3m cable. |
| Samson SR850 | These open-back headphones have a 32 ohm impedance and a frequency response of 10 Hz to 30 kHz. The design features a self-adjusting headband and velour earpads for comfort during long sessions. The headphones come with a 1/8″ to 1/4″ adapter and a 1.2m cable. |
While these budget headphones may not match the audio quality of their higher-end counterparts, they are still capable of delivering accurate sound reproduction and can be an excellent option for beginners or those on a tight budget.
Pro tip: When using budget headphones for mixing, it’s essential to take frequent breaks to avoid listening fatigue, as some lower-priced headphones can cause ear strain over extended use.
Wireless Headphones for Mixing
While traditional wired headphones provide the best audio quality for mixing, many producers and engineers prefer the convenience and freedom of wireless headphones. Here are some of the top options for wireless headphones for mixing:
| Headphones | Key Features | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Bose QuietComfort 35 II | Active noise-cancellation, balanced audio performance, long battery life | $299 |
| Sony WH-1000XM4 | Industry-leading noise-cancellation, customizable EQ, touch controls | $349 |
| Sennheiser Momentum 3 Wireless | Superior sound quality, improved noise-cancellation, virtual assistant integration | $399 |
Wireless headphones are convenient for mixing on the go or in environments where cables can be a hassle. However, it’s important to note that wireless technology can introduce latency, which can affect the accuracy of your mixes. It’s also important to select a wireless option with a long battery life, as constant charging can interrupt your workflow.
Wireless vs Wired Headphones for Mixing: Which is Better?
Wired headphones generally provide better audio quality and reduced latency, making them the best option for mixing. However, wireless headphones can be a good choice for producers who need to move around while working or want to stay connected to a device while it’s charging. Ultimately, the choice between wired and wireless headphones comes down to personal preference and the specific needs of the user.
Closed-Back vs. Open-Back Headphones for Mixing
When it comes to selecting headphones for mixing, one of the most important considerations is whether to choose closed-back or open-back headphones.
Closed-back headphones are designed to isolate sound, making them a good choice for recording vocals or live instruments. Their design prevents sound from leaking into the microphone, resulting in cleaner recordings. However, they can also produce a “boxy” sound and lack the spaciousness of open-back headphones.
On the other hand, open-back headphones allow sound to travel in and out of the ear cups, resulting in a more natural and accurate sound. They also create a wider soundstage, enhancing the 3D spatial experience of music. However, they offer little to no isolation, meaning they are not suitable for recording situations where ambient noise can be disruptive.
Best Use Cases for Each Type of Headphone
Closed-back headphones are great for recording situations, as they provide excellent isolation and help prevent sound leakage. They are also a good choice for monitoring bass-heavy mixes, as they tend to have a tighter low end.
Open-back headphones are ideal for mixing and mastering, as they offer a more accurate depiction of a track’s frequency balance and stereo imaging. They are also a good choice for music producers who want to experience a more natural and immersive sound.
Headphone Amps for Mixing
While some headphones are designed to be used without an amp, others require additional power to achieve their full potential. Headphone amps can help to improve the clarity and accuracy of your mixing headphones. They are particularly useful when working with headphones that have high impedance ratings or low sensitivity levels.
There are a number of headphone amps available on the market, but two popular options for mixing are the Fiio E10K and the Schiit Magni. The Fiio E10K is a budget-friendly option that offers a compact design and variable gain control. It is a great option for those who are just starting out with headphone amps and want to experiment with different settings. The Schiit Magni, on the other hand, is a more high-end option that is designed for serious audiophiles. It boasts a powerful output, low distortion, and a high signal-to-noise ratio, making it an excellent choice for those who demand the best.
When selecting a headphone amp, it is important to consider the impedance of your headphones. A headphone amp with a high output impedance can cause distortion and impact the overall sound quality of your headphones. To avoid this, look for an amp with a low output impedance that can provide the necessary power without distorting the signal.
Ultimately, the use of a headphone amp comes down to personal preference. If you find that your headphones sound muddy or lack detail, a headphone amp may be the solution you need to achieve the clarity and accuracy required for professional mixing.
Frequently Asked Questions About Headphones for Mixing
Here are some common questions people have when it comes to selecting headphones for mixing.
What are the best headphones for mixing?
The best headphones for mixing depend on your needs and budget. Some popular options include the Sennheiser HD 800, Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro, and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x.
What headphone specs should I look for when selecting headphones for mixing?
Key specs to consider include impedance, frequency response, and sensitivity. These specs impact the sound quality and accuracy of your mixes.
Should I choose wireless or wired headphones for mixing?
Wired headphones are typically preferred for mixing due to their lower latency and better sound quality. However, some wireless models, such as the Bose QuietComfort 35 II and Sony WH-1000XM4, offer high-quality audio performance and noise cancellation.
What is the difference between closed-back and open-back headphones for mixing?
Closed-back headphones offer better noise isolation and more bass response, while open-back headphones provide a wider soundstage and more natural sound. The best option for you depends on your priorities and the type of music you’re working on.
Do I need a headphone amp for mixing?
While not necessary, a headphone amp can improve the sound quality and volume of your headphones. Popular options include the Fiio E10K and Schiit Magni.
We hope this FAQ section has answered some of your questions about selecting headphones for mixing. Remember to prioritize your needs and budget when making your selection.
Jillian Hunt is a music enthusiast and headphone expert whose passion for audio technology has led her to become one of the leading voices in the industry. With years of experience testing and reviewing headphones, Jillian has developed an ear for quality sound and a keen eye for design. Her insights and recommendations have helped countless individuals find the perfect pair of headphones to suit their needs.
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