Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm Review: The Budget Champion of Studio Monitoring?

In the world of professional audio, there is a pervasive myth that you need to empty your savings account to achieve a sound signature capable of serious monitoring or mixing. For years, I struggled with this exact dilemma. As a producer working out of a home studio, I needed a pair of headphones that could provide the clinical detail required for surgical EQ work, yet I couldn’t justify spending hundreds of dollars on a secondary pair of monitors. This is a common hurdle for many creators—whether you are a podcaster trying to catch mouth clicks, a gamer needing precise spatial awareness, or a musician tracking late-night vocals. The problem is that most “budget” headphones color the sound so much that they become useless for professional applications. Without a flat, detailed response, your mixes won’t translate, and your recordings will suffer from hidden flaws. Finding a solution that balances cost-efficiency with raw performance is the “Holy Grail” of entry-level audio gear, and that is exactly where the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm enters the frame.

What to Consider Before Buying Professional Recording Headphones

Choosing a pair of Recording Headphone & In-Ear Audio Monitors is more than just an item; it’s a key solution for ensuring that what you hear is an accurate representation of the digital signal. In a studio environment, “colored” audio is your enemy. You don’t want boosted bass that hides a muddy low-mid range, nor do you want recessed highs that mask sibilance. A quality pair of studio monitors provides a “flat” or “neutral” response, allowing you to make informed decisions during the mixing and mastering process. Beyond just frequency response, these tools are designed for long-term wear during grueling sessions, meaning ergonomics and weight distribution are just as important as the drivers themselves.

The ideal customer for this type of product is someone facing the challenges of home recording, podcasting, or critical music listening on a budget. If you are a student of audio engineering or a content creator starting a YouTube channel, these are designed for you. However, they might not be suitable for those who require total isolation. Because the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm features a semi-open design, sound will leak out, and external noise will leak in. If you are recording drums in a loud room or tracking vocals with a highly sensitive condenser microphone in close proximity, you might consider a closed-back alternative to prevent “bleed” into your recording.

Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:

• Dimensions & Space: Studio headphones are often bulkier than consumer models because they house larger drivers (like the 50mm units found here). You should ensure you have a dedicated hook or case for them, as they do not typically fold down like travel headphones.
• Capacity/Performance: Look closely at the frequency range and impedance. A wider range (10Hz–30kHz) ensures you can hear sub-bass rumble and high-end air. A lower impedance (like 32 ohms) means they can be driven easily by a laptop or smartphone without needing an expensive external amplifier.
• Materials & Durability: Since these are tools, they will be handled daily. Consider whether the earpads are replaceable and if the headband can withstand being flexed. While plastic is common at lower price points, the quality of that plastic determines if the unit will last six months or six years.
• Ease of Use & Maintenance: Single-sided cables are a godsend for movement, preventing you from getting tangled in your chair. Also, check if the “self-adjusting” mechanism actually fits your head shape comfortably for sessions lasting longer than an hour.

Understanding these factors will help you decide if a semi-open, high-detail monitor is the right tool for your specific creative workflow.

While the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:

First Impressions and Key Features of the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm

When I first unboxed the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm, I was immediately struck by the “no-frills” approach. The packaging is utilitarian, focusing on the product rather than flashy marketing. Upon holding them, the lightweight nature—just 0.28 kilograms—is apparent. This is a double-edged sword; they feel incredibly light on the head, but the heavy use of plastic reminds you of the price point. Visually, they bear a striking resemblance to some of the legendary AKG models, featuring a similar suspension headband design and circular ear cups. Before you even plug them in, you can see the quality of the 50mm drivers through the semi-open grilles, hinting at the power they pack.

A Deep Dive into the Performance of the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm

Acoustic Accuracy and Sound Signature

The heart of the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm is the massive 50mm neodymium driver. In my testing, the first thing I noticed was the sheer clarity of the mid-range and the punchiness of the bass. Unlike many budget headphones that offer a “boomy” or “muddy” bass, the HD681 provides a tight, controlled low end that reaches down to 10Hz. This is vital for electronic music production or hip-hop, where understanding the sub-bass layer is the difference between a professional track and an amateur one. We found that the soundstage is surprisingly wide for this price category. Because they are semi-open, the air can move, creating a sense of “space” around the instruments rather than feeling like the sound is trapped inside your skull.

However, as many users have correctly pointed out, these headphones have a very bright top end. In our studio evaluations, we noticed a distinct peak in the 7kHz to 10kHz range. This makes the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm exceptionally good at revealing flaws in a recording—like a singer’s sibilance or a poorly recorded cymbal—but it can lead to ear fatigue if you listen at high volumes for hours. For those who find the treble too aggressive, a simple software EQ can tame these peaks, transforming them into one of the most balanced listening experiences available for under $50. You can check the latest price and availability to see how they currently fit into your gear budget.

Ergonomics and Long-Term Comfort

Comfort is a subjective metric, but the suspension-style headband on the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm is a standout feature. We tested these on multiple head shapes and found that the self-adjusting strap does an admirable job of distributing the weight evenly across the crown of the head. This prevents the “hot spot” pain often associated with traditional padded headbands. One user mentioned they had an “oddly shaped” head and found these to be the only pair that didn’t cause pain, and our experience mirrored that sentiment. The clamping force is moderate—firm enough to stay secure while you’re moving around the studio, but not so tight that it crushes your glasses against your temples.

The earpads are where the budget-conscious design is most evident. They are a standard synthetic leather that, while durable, does not breathe well. During a two-hour mixing session in a room without aggressive air conditioning, my ears definitely felt the heat. Interestingly, the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm has a massive “modding” community. We found that many professionals choose to swap the stock pads for aftermarket velour pads. This simple change not only improves the “breathability” but also slightly tames those sharp high frequencies we mentioned earlier. It’s a testament to the driver quality that people are willing to invest in better pads to keep these headphones in their daily rotation.

Build Quality and Versatility

From a construction standpoint, the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm is built to be a workhorse. The single-sided cable is thick and feels resilient, though it is not detachable—a feature often reserved for more expensive models. The use of a 3.5mm jack with a screw-on 6.3mm (1/4 inch) adapter makes it versatile enough to go from a professional mixing console to a gaming controller without needing extra accessories. We evaluated the “flex” of the plastic frame and found it to be surprisingly sturdy. While it might not survive being stepped on by a heavy boot, it handles the standard “toss in a gym bag” or “drop from a desk” scenarios with ease.

The versatility of these headphones extends beyond the studio. While they are marketed as “monitoring” tools, we found them to be excellent for immersive gaming. The wide soundstage allowed us to pinpoint footsteps in competitive shooters far better than many dedicated “gaming headsets” that cost twice as much. This is likely due to the 50mm drivers’ ability to reproduce spatial cues accurately. If you are looking for a multi-purpose tool that can handle podcasting during the day and high-fidelity gaming at night, this product offers a level of flexibility that is rare in the entry-level market.

The “Secret” Performance Boost: Modifications

One of the most fascinating aspects of the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm is how they respond to user “tweaks.” Expert users and community members often recommend removing the thin foam disc inside the ear cup or the small “acoustic dampener” sticker on the driver. In our testing, removing these elements actually opened up the soundstage even further and increased the perceived “air” of the audio. It is rare to find a product that allows this level of user intervention to “unlock” higher performance. It makes the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm a favorite among audio enthusiasts who enjoy fine-tuning their gear to their specific tastes. Whether you use them stock or decide to dive into the world of modding, the foundation provided by the 50mm neodymium drivers is undeniably solid.

What Other Users Are Saying

The general sentiment surrounding the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm is one of shocked realization—users simply cannot believe how good they sound for the price. One professional user compared them directly to their high-end German-engineered headphones (which cost six times as much) and stated that at times they “forget they are wearing the Superlux.” Another long-term user highlighted that for R&B and Hip Hop production, these are “some of the best” due to their low-end response. This reinforces our finding that the 50mm drivers are punching far above their weight class.

On the negative side, there are consistent reports regarding the durability of the internal wiring over several years and the “cheap” feel of the initial packaging. One user mentioned that the headphones were “jammed into a box too small,” which is a fair criticism of the presentation. Furthermore, the consensus on the “piercing” treble is real; multiple reviewers advised using an equalizer to “fine-tune them to your taste.” Despite these minor gripes, the overarching theme is that for under $50, these are considered a “steal” or a “must-buy” for anyone serious about sound quality without a massive budget. This balanced feedback suggests that while they aren’t perfect, their flaws are easily manageable given the extreme value they provide.

Comparing the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm to Top Alternatives

1. beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250 ohm Limited Edition

The beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is widely considered the “big brother” to the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm in terms of sound signature. While the Superlux mimics the V-shape sound, the DT 990 PRO perfects it with superior build quality and the legendary “velour” pads that provide much better comfort for all-day use. However, the DT 990 PRO has a high impedance of 250 ohms, meaning you must have a dedicated headphone amplifier to get them to a usable volume. If you have the budget for an amp and want a more “premium” version of the Superlux sound with better long-term durability, the DT 990 PRO is the professional standard. The Superlux remains the better choice for those who want to plug directly into a laptop or phone.

2. AKG K371 Professional Studio Headphones

If the semi-open design of the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm is a dealbreaker because of sound leakage, the AKG K371 is the logical next step. These are closed-back headphones, meaning they offer much better isolation for tracking vocals or commuting. The K371 follows the “Harman Curve,” which many find more pleasing and “natural” than the bright treble of the Superlux. They also feature a foldable design and detachable cables, making them significantly more portable. You are paying a premium for these features, but if you need a “do-it-all” headphone that you can take from the studio to the subway, the AKG K371 is a more versatile, albeit more expensive, investment.

3. Soundcore Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones

Comparing the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm to the Soundcore Space One highlights the difference between “Studio” and “Consumer” audio. The Soundcore is a wireless, Bluetooth-enabled headset with Active Noise Cancelling (ANC). It is designed for convenience, travel, and blocking out the world. While the Superlux focuses on raw, uncolored audio detail, the Soundcore focuses on a “fun” listening experience with app-controlled EQ and 40 hours of battery life. If your goal is professional mixing or recording, the Soundcore’s digital processing will likely interfere with your accuracy. However, for the casual listener who wants comfort and features over clinical transparency, the Soundcore Space One is the modern, tech-heavy alternative.

Final Verdict: Are the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm Right for You?

After extensive testing and cross-referencing with a mountain of user data, the conclusion is clear: the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm is an anomaly in the audio world. It offers a level of transparency, frequency extension, and soundstage that usually costs significantly more. While the build materials are undeniably “budget” and the treble can be sharp out of the box, these are small hurdles to clear for the price. They are the perfect entry point for a budding producer, a reliable backup for a professional studio, or a high-fidelity upgrade for a gamer who is tired of the bloated bass of traditional headsets. Their ability to reveal the “truth” in a recording makes them a legitimate tool for any creator’s arsenal.

If you are looking for a pair of headphones that prioritizes “sound first” and you don’t mind a bit of plastic in exchange for professional-grade drivers, then you should see its full feature set and user reviews for yourself. For the price of a few pizzas, you can significantly elevate your audio monitoring game. We highly recommend the Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm as the ultimate budget-friendly monitoring solution. Don’t let the price fool you; your ears will thank you. To get started on your professional audio journey today, a feature that really sets it apart is waiting for you at the link below.