Best Headphones for Music Production: Our Top 10 Picks & Reviews

Introduction

In the world of professional audio, your headphones are arguably your most critical tool. After years of testing countless pairs in various studio environments, we have evaluated the market to bring you the definitive list of the best headphones for music production. While the competition is fierce, we have determined that the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Studio Monitor Headphones stand out as our top pick. Their exceptional clarity, balanced frequency response, and robust build quality make them the industry standard for a reason. Whether you are tracking vocals or fine-tuning a complex mix, these headphones provide the accuracy that professionals demand and that we have personally come to rely on.

Our Top 10 Picks for Best Headphones for Music Production

#1 Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Studio Monitor Headphones – Ideal for: Versatile studio use and critical monitoring

When we first stepped into the studio with the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Studio Monitor Headphones, it was immediately clear why they are a staple in the industry. The 45mm large-aperture drivers deliver a sonic performance that is both detailed and balanced. We found the clarity across the extended frequency range to be exceptional, particularly the deep, accurate bass response that avoids the “muddy” feel of consumer-grade alternatives. The closed-back circumaural design provides excellent sound isolation, which is vital when you are recording in the same room as a hot microphone.

Our experience with the build quality matches the professional reputation of these cans. The 90-degree swiveling earcups are incredibly handy for single-ear monitoring during recording sessions. We found the assembly and material quality to be refreshingly durable, a sentiment echoed by many users who have owned these for years. While some users noted that the ear cups can feel a bit snug over long sessions, we found that the padding is substantial enough to keep them comfortable for several hours of mixing. The inclusion of three detachable cables—coiled, short straight, and long straight—adds a level of convenience that we rarely see at this price point.

#2 beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro Studio Headphones – Perfect for: Detailed mixing and mastering in quiet environments

The beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro Studio Headphones are legendary for their open-back design, which creates a wide, natural soundstage that we found indispensable for critical mixing. When we used these for mastering, the spatial imaging was pinpoint accurate, allowing us to place elements in the stereo field with total confidence. The 250-ohm impedance ensures high power handling, though we must emphasize that you will need a dedicated audio interface or headphone amplifier to get the best out of them.

Comfort is where these truly shine. The soft, replaceable velour ear pads are some of the most comfortable we have ever tested, making those 8-hour mixing marathons much more bearable. A minor issue we encountered, which some users also pointed out, is the non-detachable coiled cable, which can feel a bit restrictive compared to modern detachable options. However, the build quality remains top-notch, and the fact that almost every part is replaceable makes these a fantastic long-term investment for any producer. The high-end “sparkle” is a signature of this model, providing incredible detail, though it may be a bit bright for those sensitive to high frequencies.

#3 beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Studio Headphones 80 Ohm – Suits: Professional tracking and drum monitoring

The beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO Studio Headphones 80 Ohm are the closed-back siblings to the 990s, and they are our go-to for tracking. We found that the sound isolation provided by the enclosed design is superb, ensuring that your click track doesn’t bleed into the microphone. The “Bass Reflex” system provides a punchy, clear low end that makes them particularly enjoyable for electronic music producers and drummers who need to feel the beat.

In our tests, the 80-ohm version proved to be the “sweet spot” for versatility, as they can be driven effectively by most studio gear and even some laptops without needing a massive external amp. We found the comfort to be consistent with the brand’s high standards, thanks to the rugged, adjustable headband and velour pads. Some users mentioned a significant “clamping force” initially, which we also noticed, but this typically relaxes after a week of use. They are built like a tank, and several users have reported their pairs lasting over five years in demanding studio environments.

#4 AKG K 240 MK II Studio Headphones – Ideal for: Natural sound reproduction on a budget

The AKG K 240 MK II Studio Headphones are a modern classic. Utilizing a semi-open design, we found they offer a compromise between the isolation of closed-back cans and the airy soundstage of open-back models. This makes them surprisingly effective for both recording and light mixing duties. The patented Varimotion 30mm XXL transducers provide a very accurate and flat response, particularly in the mids, which is essential for vocal editing.

We especially appreciate the self-adjusting headband, which makes finding a comfortable fit instantaneous. They are exceptionally lightweight, and we barely felt them on our heads during long editing sessions. Our findings were confirmed by users who noted that while the bass isn’t “boosted” like consumer headphones, it is accurate and clean. We did find the stock leather ear pads to be slightly less comfortable than the included velour ones, so we recommend swapping them out immediately. For producers looking for a “neutral” sound without breaking the bank, these are a formidable choice.

#5 Soundcore Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones – Perfect for: Mobile production and noisy environments

While often seen as consumer-focused, we found the Soundcore Space One Active Noise Cancelling Headphones to be a surprisingly capable tool for producers working on the go. If you are mixing on a plane or in a busy cafe, the Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) is a lifesaver, effectively cutting out up to 98% of ambient noise. The Hi-Res Audio support with LDAC ensures that you aren’t losing critical detail when using them wirelessly.

We were impressed by the 40-hour battery life with ANC enabled, which is more than enough for long travel days. The 8-degree rotating ear cups provided a very comfortable fit for our team. However, from an expert perspective, these are not “flat” headphones; they have a more colored sound signature than the professional monitors on this list. We suggest using them as a secondary reference to check how your mixes sound in the “real world” or for initial arrangement work where isolation is the priority. The app control allows for some EQ fine-tuning, which we found helpful for taming the low end.

#6 beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Studio Headphones 80 Ohm – Best for: High-resolution monitoring and critical listening

This specific iteration of the beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Studio Headphones 80 Ohm is optimized for professional studio recording and monitoring. In our professional assessment, the transparency of the sound here is the standout feature. These headphones don’t hide anything; if there is a flaw in your recording, you will hear it. This makes them an essential tool for tracking and critical listening.

The build quality is exactly what we expect from German engineering—rugged and designed to withstand the rigors of daily studio use. We love the soft velour pads, which provide a level of comfort that most closed-back leather pads can’t match. We did notice, as did some users, that the highs can be a bit dominant compared to the lows in this version, which aids in hearing detail but can lead to ear fatigue if you monitor at high volumes. Despite the minor disappointment some users felt regarding the packaging, the product itself is a workhorse that consistently delivers a clean, high-resolution audio experience.

#7 Yamaha HPH-150B Open-Air Headphones – Ideal for: Digital instrument practice and neutral monitoring

The Yamaha HPH-150B Open-Air Headphones are specifically tuned for a neutral tone palette, which we found excellent for practicing digital pianos and electronic instruments. The sound separation is surprisingly crisp for such a compact design, allowing us to hear the nuances of a piano’s decay or the grit of a synthesizer’s filter. The open-air design ensures that the sound remains natural and doesn’t feel closed-in.

These are incredibly lightweight—only 0.6 pounds—and we found them very comfortable for extended practice sessions. They feature a swivel mechanism that helps in achieving a proper fit. While we found the audio quality to be good for the price, we did note that they feel more “on-ear” than “over-ear,” which can cause some pressure on the ears after several hours. A few users reported concerns about the plastic feeling a bit thin, so we recommend handling them with care. If you need a secondary pair of headphones for focused instrument practice with a clear, neutral sound, these are a solid value.

#8 beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250 ohm Limited Edition – Suits: Critical listening and professional editing with a sleek look

The beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250 ohm Limited Edition brings all the sonic excellence of the standard 990 Pro into a sleek, all-black design with a straight cable. We found that the straight cable is often preferred in studio setups where a coiled cable might get tangled in chair wheels. The audio clarity is astounding, providing a wide and natural soundstage that makes it feel like you are listening to studio monitors in a well-treated room.

In our testing, the spatial imaging was highly detailed, allowing us to hear subtle reverbs and delays that are often lost in closed-back headphones. We must reiterate that these require a proper amp to drive; running them straight off a standard laptop jack will result in a weak, thin sound. While we encountered a minor build quality flaw with the headband slider covers—a sentiment shared by a few users—the overall comfort provided by the velour ear pads remains world-class. If you want the classic 990 sound with a more modern, professional aesthetic, this is the version to get.

#9 Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm – Perfect for: High-impact monitoring on a tight budget

The Superlux HD681 Studio Headphones 50mm are widely considered the best “budget” studio headphones on the market, and we are inclined to agree. Despite their low price, the 50mm neodymium drivers deliver a punchy low-frequency impact that we found genuinely impressive. The sound is detailed and accurate enough for basic mixing and tracking, providing a performance that punches far above its weight class.

We found the self-adjusting headband to be quite comfortable, even for those with larger heads. Our experience was confirmed by several users who noted that with a bit of EQ tuning, these can sound nearly as good as headphones costing three times as much. However, the build quality is where the cost-cutting is evident. The plastic feels a bit cheap, and the stock ear pads can get quite warm. We found that swapping the pads for higher-quality velour ones makes a world of difference. For a home studio on a strict budget, these are a “steal” that provides professional-level sound entry.

#10 beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X Open-Back Studio Headphones – Ideal for: High-end mixing and mastering without the need for an amp

The beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X Open-Back Studio Headphones represent the next generation of studio monitors. What sets these apart in our expert opinion is the new STELLAR.45 driver, which delivers a incredibly detailed and balanced sound with an impedance of only 48 ohms. This means you get professional-grade sound directly from your laptop or interface without needing an external amp. We found the mix translation on these to be exceptionally “unforgiving,” which is exactly what you want when making final mix decisions.

Comfort is luxurious, featuring plush velour pads and a detachable cable—a feature many had been asking for in the older Pro series. We found the spatial imaging to be among the best in its class. However, we did notice that the headband material can show wear sooner than expected, a point also raised by some long-term users. Despite this, the ability to service and replace almost every part means these will stay in your studio for a long time. They offer a more refined, less “peaky” high-end than the older 990s, making them easier to use for long stretches.

The Ultimate Buyer’s Guide

Key Factors to Consider

When searching for the best headphones for music production, your choice should be dictated by your specific workflow. If you are primarily recording vocalists, isolation is your top priority to prevent click-track bleed. If you are mixing, a wide soundstage and flat frequency response are essential for making accurate EQ and panning decisions. We recommend looking at frequency response charts to ensure the headphones don’t have artificially boosted bass or treble, which can lead to mixes that don’t translate well to other systems.

Open-Back vs. Closed-Back: Which is Right for You?

Open-back headphones allow air to pass through the ear cups, resulting in a more natural, “airy” sound with a wider soundstage. We find these superior for mixing and mastering because they reduce the build-up of pressure and provide a more accurate representation of space. Closed-back headphones, on the other hand, are sealed, providing excellent noise isolation. These are mandatory for tracking and recording to ensure sound doesn’t leak into your microphones.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Buying consumer “Hi-Fi” headphones: Most consumer headphones boost bass and treble to make music sound “better,” but this masks flaws that you need to hear in a mix.
• Ignoring Impedance: If you buy 250-ohm headphones and plug them into a standard smartphone, they will sound quiet and thin. Always match your headphones to your output gear.
• Overlooking Comfort: You will likely be wearing these for hours. A pair of headphones that sounds great but hurts your ears after 30 minutes is a bad investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best headphones for music production and mixing?

For a balance of price, performance, and durability, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is widely considered the best all-around choice. For dedicated mixing where a wider soundstage is needed, the beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro or DT 900 Pro X are top-tier options.

How do I choose the right headphones for my music production needs?

Identify your primary task. If you record, get closed-back headphones. If you mix, consider open-back. Also, check your gear’s power output to see if you need low-impedance headphones (like the 48-ohm DT 900 Pro X) or high-impedance ones that require an amp.

What is the difference between open-back and closed-back headphones for music production?

Open-back headphones have perforated ear cups that allow sound to escape, offering a more natural sound but no isolation. Closed-back headphones are sealed, providing isolation for recording but a more “internalized” soundstage.

Can I use headphones for mastering and recording?

Yes, but you usually need different types. Recording requires closed-back headphones for isolation. Mastering is better served by high-end open-back headphones that offer the most accurate spatial imaging and frequency detail.

What are the most important features to consider when buying headphones for music production?

The most important features are a flat/neutral frequency response, comfort for long sessions, build quality/serviceability, and impedance matching with your audio interface.

How much should I spend on headphones for music production?

You can find professional-level entry headphones like the Superlux HD681 for under $70, but the “sweet spot” for industry-standard quality is usually between $150 and $300.

What are the best headphones for electronic music production?

Electronic music producers often prefer headphones with a clear and deep low-end response, such as the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x or the beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro, to accurately monitor sub-bass frequencies.

Conclusion: Our Final Recommendation

After evaluating the most popular and respected models on the market, our final recommendation remains the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Studio Monitor Headphones. While other models on this list excel in specific areas—like the DT 990 Pro for soundstage or the Soundcore Space One for travel—the M50x offers the most complete package for the modern producer. We have found their “honest” sound signature and excellent isolation to be indispensable across recording, mixing, and everyday listening. They are a reliable, durable, and highly accurate tool that serves as the perfect foundation for any music production setup.