Best Studio Headphone for Mixing: Top Picks & Expert Tips
Jillian Hunt
July 30, 2023 7:38 am
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13 min read
As a music producer, finding the best studio headphone for mixing is crucial to achieving high-quality sound. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. Thankfully, we’ve got you covered.
In this article, we’ll provide you with expert tips on what to consider when choosing studio headphones, share our top picks for the best headphones for mixing, and offer budget-friendly options. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting in music production, this guide will help you find the perfect studio headphones for your needs.
Key Takeaways
- Finding the best studio headphone for mixing is important for high-quality sound.
- Important factors to consider include frequency response, impedance, comfort, and durability.
- Our top picks for studio headphones for mixing are the Sennheiser HD 650, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, and Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro.
- Expert tips include proper headphone positioning, using reference tracks, and taking breaks to avoid ear fatigue.
- Other considerations in mixing include room acoustics, monitor speakers, and using a dedicated headphone amplifier.
- Budget-friendly options include the Sony MDR-7506 and AKG K240 Studio.
What to Consider When Choosing Studio Headphones
When it comes to selecting the best studio headphones for mixing, there are several important factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Frequency response: This refers to the range of sound frequencies that headphones can produce. Ideally, you want headphones with a flat frequency response, meaning that they reproduce audio accurately without emphasizing or de-emphasizing any particular frequency range. This is particularly important for mixing, as it allows you to hear the nuances of each instrument and make adjustments accordingly.
- Impedance: This is a measure of how much electrical resistance headphones have. Headphones with high impedance require more power to drive, which can affect sound quality and volume. For studio use, headphones with low to medium impedance are generally recommended.
- Comfort: Since mixing can take several hours, it’s important to choose headphones that are comfortable to wear for extended periods. Look for headphones with ample padding and an adjustable headband to ensure a good fit.
- Isolation: Closed-back headphones offer more isolation from external noise, which can be helpful when mixing in noisy environments. However, open-back headphones can provide a more natural sound and are generally preferred by audiophiles.
- Build quality: Look for headphones that are well-built and durable, as they can withstand frequent use and potentially rough handling.
By considering these factors, you can choose studio headphones that provide accurate sound reproduction and allow you to make precise mixing decisions.
Top Picks for Studio Headphones for Mixing
Choosing the right studio headphones for mixing can be a daunting task, but we’ve got you covered. After extensive research and testing, we’ve narrowed down the top picks for the best studio headphones for mixing. Each of these headphones has been selected based on their sound quality, comfort, and suitability for mixing.
| Headphone | Features | Sound Quality | Suitability for Mixing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sennheiser HD 650 | Open-back design, detachable cable | Clear and accurate | Ideal for critical listening and mixing |
| Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Closed-back design, foldable, detachable cable | Powerful bass, detailed mids and highs | Great for tracking, mixing and DJing |
| Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro | Open-back design, replaceable parts | Neutral and balanced | Accurate for critical listening and mixing |
Each of these headphones has its own strengths and weaknesses, so it’s important to choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences. Whether you prefer a specific sound signature, require a certain level of comfort, or need a headphone that can handle long listening sessions, our top picks have got you covered.
Sennheiser HD 650
The Sennheiser HD 650 is a popular choice for mixing engineers due to its neutral and accurate sound signature. It has an open-back design that allows for a wider soundstage, making it easier to identify individual elements in a mix.
The build quality of the HD 650 is robust, with high-quality materials used throughout. The ear cups are large and padded, providing a comfortable fit even during long mixing sessions.
The impedance of the HD 650 is 300 ohms, which means they require a headphone amplifier to drive them to their full potential. However, the sound quality they deliver is worth the investment.
Users of the HD 650 praise its ability to reproduce accurate and detailed sound, allowing for precise mixing decisions. However, some users have noted that the bass response may be lacking slightly compared to other headphones on the market.
Overall, the Sennheiser HD 650 is an excellent choice for mixing due to its accurate sound reproduction and comfortable design. However, it’s important to note that they do require a headphone amplifier to perform at their best.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a well-known and popular choice among mixing engineers. These headphones are highly regarded for their superior sound quality, exceptional comfort, and durability.
One of the standout features of the ATH-M50x is their accurate and detailed sound reproduction. The headphones have a flat frequency response that allows for a precise representation of the audio being mixed. This makes it easy for engineers to make informed decisions about levels, EQ, and other aspects of the mix.
In addition to their sound quality, the ATH-M50x is also incredibly comfortable to wear for extended periods. The ear cups are spacious and made from memory foam that conforms to the shape of the listener’s ears. This provides excellent isolation from external noise, further enhancing the listening experience. The headphones are also built to last, with high-quality materials that can withstand frequent use.
The ATH-M50x has gained a reputation as a reliable and affordable option, making them an excellent choice for both beginners and experienced producers. They are an excellent investment for anyone looking for a high-quality pair of studio headphones that won’t break the bank.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro studio headphone is an open-back design, making it suitable for extended listening sessions. The headphones feature a wide frequency response range of 5 Hz – 35 kHz, providing accurate and detailed sound for mixing.
The DT 990 Pro has a low impedance of 250 ohms, allowing it to be driven easily by most headphone amplifiers. The headphones have a sturdy and durable build with replaceable parts, ensuring a long lifespan.
One of the standout features of the DT 990 Pro is its sound accuracy. The headphones provide a balanced and transparent sound, making them ideal for critical listening and mixing. They are particularly popular among mastering engineers and audio professionals.
However, the DT 990 Pro can be less comfortable than other headphones due to its tight clamp force and stiff earpads. It may take some time to break in the headphones and find a comfortable fit.
Pros:
- Accurate and transparent sound
- Durable build with replaceable parts
- Wide frequency response range
Cons:
- Tight clamp force and stiff earpads can be uncomfortable at first
Expert Tips for Using Studio Headphones for Mixing
When it comes to mixing music, selecting the right studio headphones is just one part of the equation. To get the best results, it’s important to know how to use them effectively. Here are some expert tips to help you get the most out of your studio headphones:
- Positioning is key: The way you wear your headphones can have a big impact on the sound. Make sure they’re positioned correctly on your ears, with the ear cushions covering your ears fully. This will ensure you’re getting the best sound quality possible.
- Use reference tracks: It’s important to have a reference point when mixing music. Use tracks that you know well to help you figure out how your mix should sound. This will help you make better decisions when it comes to EQ, panning, and other important elements of the mix.
- Take breaks: Mixing can be a long and tiring process, especially if you’re using headphones. Take regular breaks to rest your ears and prevent ear fatigue. This will help you make better decisions and avoid making mistakes that could affect the final mix.
- Don’t rely solely on headphones: While headphones are a useful tool for mixing, they shouldn’t be your only point of reference. Use monitor speakers as well to get a more complete picture of the sound. This will help you make better decisions when it comes to balancing the mix.
- Invest in a headphone amplifier: If you’re serious about mixing music with headphones, it’s worth investing in a dedicated headphone amplifier. This will give you more control over the sound and help you get the most out of your headphones.
“By following these tips, you’ll be better equipped to use your studio headphones effectively and get the best results from your mixes.”
Other Considerations in Mixing
Choosing the right studio headphones for mixing is crucial, but it’s not the only consideration when it comes to producing high-quality music. Here are a few other factors to keep in mind:
Room Acoustics
The acoustics of your mixing room can greatly affect the sound quality of your music. It’s important to ensure that your room is acoustically treated to minimize reflection and echo. This can be achieved through the use of acoustic panels, bass traps, and diffusers.
Monitor Speakers
While studio headphones are essential for mixing, it’s also important to have a set of high-quality monitor speakers to reference your mixes. This allows you to hear how your music sounds in a more natural environment and can identify any issues that may not be noticeable through headphones.
Headphone Amplifier
Depending on the impedance and sensitivity of your chosen headphones, a dedicated headphone amp may be necessary to ensure optimal performance. A headphone amp can provide more power and clarity to your headphones, resulting in a more accurate representation of your mix.
By taking these additional factors into account, you can optimize your mixing environment and equipment to produce the best possible music.
Budget-Friendly Studio Headphones for Mixing
Investing in a quality pair of studio headphones for mixing can be expensive. However, there are still affordable options that can provide good sound quality and meet the needs of home studio producers and hobbyists.
| Headphone | Price | Features |
|---|---|---|
| AKG K240 Studio | $69 | Over-ear, semi-open design; comfortable fit; precise and accurate sound |
| Superlux HD 681 | $37 | Over-ear, semi-open design; clear and detailed sound; durable construction |
| Samson SR850 | $49 | Over-ear, semi-open design; accurate sound reproduction; comfortable fit |
These budget-friendly headphones may not match the sound quality of more expensive options, but they are still ideal for those starting out with home recording or on a tight budget. They can also be useful as a secondary reference option to check the mix on different devices.
Remember to consider your personal preferences and needs when selecting budget-friendly studio headphones for mixing. Don’t compromise too much on quality but find a balance between affordability and performance.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the best studio headphone for mixing is crucial for producing high-quality music. Remember to consider important factors such as frequency response, impedance, comfort, and durability when making your selection. Our top picks, the Sennheiser HD 650, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, and Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, all have unique features and benefits that make them suitable for different needs.
Expert tips, including proper headphone positioning and using reference tracks, can help you optimize your mixing process with headphones. Keep in mind other considerations such as room acoustics, monitor speakers, and using a dedicated headphone amplifier, as they can affect your overall mixing experience.
Even if you’re on a budget, there are affordable studio headphone options that still deliver good sound quality. Ultimately, choosing the right studio headphones for you will depend on your personal preferences and needs as a mixing engineer.
Remember: the right studio headphones can enhance your music production and take your mixing skills to the next level.
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Conclusion
Choosing the best studio headphone for mixing is an essential step for any music producer or audio engineer. The right headphones can make a world of difference in terms of sound quality, accuracy, and comfort.
As discussed in this article, it’s important to consider various factors such as frequency response, impedance, and durability when choosing studio headphones for mixing. Additionally, taking breaks and using reference tracks can help prevent ear fatigue and improve the overall mixing experience.
Final Thoughts
Ultimately, the choice of studio headphone comes down to personal preference and needs. Whether you’re on a tight budget or looking to invest in a high-end pair, there are options available to suit your requirements.
In conclusion, we hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and recommendations for finding the best studio headphones for mixing. Remember to conduct thorough research and take your time in making a decision to ensure that you have the right headphones for your music production needs.
FAQ
Q: What are the important factors to consider when choosing studio headphones?
A: When choosing studio headphones, it is important to consider factors such as frequency response, impedance, comfort, and durability.
Q: Can you recommend some top picks for studio headphones for mixing?
A: Some top picks for studio headphones for mixing include the Sennheiser HD 650, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, and Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro.
Q: Can you provide a detailed review of the Sennheiser HD 650 studio headphone?
A: The Sennheiser HD 650 studio headphone is known for its impressive sound signature, excellent build quality, and positive user feedback.
Q: What are the key features and qualities of the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x studio headphone?
A: The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x studio headphone offers exceptional sound quality, a comfortable fit, and is highly popular among mixing engineers.
Q: How is the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro studio headphone suitable for mixing?
A: The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro studio headphone is known for its open-back design, accurate sound reproduction, and suitability for mixing purposes.
Q: Can you provide expert tips for using studio headphones for mixing?
A: Expert tips for using studio headphones for mixing include proper headphone positioning, using reference tracks, and taking breaks to avoid ear fatigue.
Q: What are some other important considerations in mixing besides studio headphones?
A: Other important considerations in mixing include room acoustics, monitor speakers, and the use of a dedicated headphone amplifier.
Q: Do you have any recommendations for budget-friendly studio headphones for mixing?
A: Yes, we have recommendations for budget-friendly studio headphones that offer good sound quality without breaking the bank.
Q: What are the final thoughts on selecting the best studio headphone for mixing?
A: Selecting the best studio headphone for mixing is crucial for enhancing music production. Consider your personal preferences and needs when making a decision.
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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