Finding the right headphones for mixing is crucial for achieving professional sound quality. In this article, we explore the best headphones tailored for mixing, considering various factors such as sound accuracy, comfort, and price. From budget-friendly options to premium models, each headphone on our list offers unique features that cater to different mixing needs. Whether you’re a seasoned audio engineer or an aspiring producer, the right pair of headphones can significantly enhance your mixing experience. Dive in to discover the top contenders that will elevate your audio production to the next level.
Best Overall Headphones for mixing
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The ATH-M50x offers a balanced frequency response, providing clear highs, detailed mids, and punchy lows. This clarity allows mixers to hear subtle nuances in their tracks, making it easier to make precise adjustments. Many users note that vocals and instruments stand out distinctly in the mix, leading to a more polished final product. Their closed-back design helps isolate sound, preventing external noise from interfering with the mixing process.
The ATH-M50x is compatible with various devices and includes detachable cables, enhancing durability. They are commonly used by professionals across different audio fields, from music production to podcasting, further solidifying their reputation as a reliable tool for mixing.
This headphone is definitely one of the best options for mixing, and if you are looking for a headphone that can make you a strong mix man, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is one of the best.
Also Read: Audio Technica ATH-M50X Review
Best Close-Back Mix Headphones
beyerdynamic dt 770 pro
These headphones feature a closed-back design that provides excellent isolation, allowing users to focus on their mixes without external distractions. The frequency response is wide, ranging from 5 Hz to 35 kHz, enabling accurate reproduction of both low bass and high treble frequencies. This clarity helps in identifying subtle details in the mix, making it easier to achieve a balanced sound.
beyerdynamic dt 770 pro Designed for long sessions, the DT 770 Pro has plush ear pads that minimize fatigue, crucial for extended mixing periods. Their robust construction ensures longevity, and the replaceable ear pads add to their durability.
Our research shows that the beyerdynamic dt 770 pro is the most popular option for people looking for closed-back headphones for mixing.
Also Read: Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Review
Best Open-Back Mix Headphones
beyerdynamic dt 990 pro
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro headphones are a top choice for mixing due to their open-back design, which enhances soundstage and spatial awareness. This design allows for a more natural listening experience, akin to monitoring through studio speakers, making it easier to judge panning and stereo imaging effectively.
With a frequency response of 5 Hz to 35 kHz, the DT 990 Pro provides a detailed and dynamic sound profile. The slight boost in bass and treble enhances clarity without overwhelming the mix, allowing for precise adjustments during mixing sessions.
While perfect for mixing and mastering, the DT 990 Pro is not suited for tracking with microphones due to sound leakage. However, they excel in quiet studio environments, providing an immersive audio experience that aids in critical listening tasks.
Also Read: Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro Review
Best Budget Headphones for Mixing
sony mdr-7506
The Sony MDR-7506 headphones are an excellent budget choice for mixing due to their impressive sound quality and comfort. These headphones offer a clear and balanced sound profile, making it easier to hear details in your mix. With a frequency response of 10 Hz to 20 kHz, they provide accurate representation across lows, mids, and highs. The detailed sound helps identify issues in the mix, allowing for precise adjustments.
Their foldable design makes them easy to transport, while the durable build ensures they can withstand regular use in studio environments. These factors make the MDR-7506 a reliable option for both beginners and seasoned professionals looking for quality at an affordable price.
Also Read: Sony MDR-7506 Review
Best Premium Mix Headphones
Neumann NDH 30
The Neumann NDH 30 headphones are considered a premium choice for mixing due to their exceptional sound quality and design tailored specifically for critical listening tasks like mixing and mastering. The NDH 30 features outstanding detail resolution and high-precision stereo imaging with razor-sharp localization. Its linear soundstage ensures that audio signals are reproduced accurately, allowing users to pinpoint subtle nuances in their mixes. Additionally, the headphones’ transient response is extremely fast, providing dry bass, uncolored midrange frequencies, and transparent highs without any sound coloration.
While not ideal for tracking due to sound leakage, the Neumann NDH 30 excels in quiet studio environments where critical listening is essential for mixing and mastering tasks. Its ability to reproduce signals accurately makes it a go-to choice among professionals seeking precise sound reproduction during these critical stages of audio production. The NDH 30’s superior sound characteristics make it the first choice for those requiring high-quality monitoring tools in their studio setup.
Also Read: Neumann NDH 30 Review
Best Money Can Buy
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The Sennheiser HD 800 S features an open-back design that delivers a wide soundstage and exceptional clarity across frequencies. With a frequency response of 4 Hz to 51 kHz, they reproduce audio with remarkable detail, allowing mixers to hear subtle nuances that are often missed with other headphones. This clarity is crucial for making informed decisions during the mixing process.
Constructed with high-quality materials, the HD 800 S is built to last, making them a reliable choice for studio environments. Their premium design not only enhances durability but also contributes to an immersive listening experience, making them a top choice for serious audio professionals looking to achieve the best results in their mixes.
This headphone has scored a high score in most of the tests, but its very high price has caused many people to remove this headphone from their purchase options.
Also Read: Sennheiser HD 800 S Review
Best Value for Natural Sound
HiFiMan Edition XS
The Hifiman Edition XS headphones are an outstanding choice for mixing, particularly valued for their natural sound reproduction and exceptional detail. These headphones feature a planar magnetic design that delivers a clear and balanced audio profile, emphasizing the mid-range frequencies. This results in a natural sound that accurately represents vocals and instruments, making it easier to identify nuances in mixes. The treble extends well, providing sparkle without harshness, while the bass remains neutral, allowing for an uncolored listening experience.
The open-back design contributes to a spacious soundstage, enhancing stereo imaging and depth. This allows mixers to perceive spatial relationships in their audio more effectively, making it easier to create a well-balanced mix. Overall, the Hifiman Edition XS offers an excellent combination of comfort, detail, and natural sound that makes it a fantastic choice for mixing applications.
Also Read: Hifiman Edition XS Review
Conclusion
In conclusion, finding the right headphones for mixing is paramount for producing high-quality audio. Our guide highlights several standout options catering to diverse needs:
- The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x excels as a balanced choice, offering clear highs and detailed lows ideal for precise adjustments.
- For those seeking closed-back isolation, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro stands out with its wide frequency response and durable design.
- Open-back enthusiasts will appreciate the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, enhancing soundstage and spatial awareness.
- Budget-conscious mixers should consider the affordable yet reliable Sony MDR-7506.
- Premium options include the exceptional detail resolution of the Neumann NDH 30 and the unparalleled clarity of the Sennheiser HD 800 S.
- Lastly, the HiFiMan Edition XS offers natural sound reproduction at an excellent price point.
Each headphone listed here brings unique strengths to enhance your mixing experience, ensuring you achieve professional-grade audio quality regardless of budget constraints. Whether you’re a seasoned engineer or starting out, there’s a perfect pair waiting for you.
