Need the best budget headphones for music production?
Wired headphones are crucial in studio settings due to their reduced latency and superior audio quality, and quality studio headphones are essential for creating professional sound on a budget. This guide reviews the top affordable options, highlighting their audio quality, cost, comfort, and durability so you can choose the right pair for your needs.
Let’s dive in!
In a Nutshell
- Budget studio headphones provide affordable access to quality sound essential for music production, with advancements offering improved accuracy and detail.
- Key models like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, Sony MDR-7506, and Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO are highlighted for their durability, sound quality, and comfort, making them ideal choices for producers. The Sony MDR-7506 is particularly known for its flat response and clear highs, making it a favorite among producers for mixing. Wired headphones, such as the Sennheiser HD 560S and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, are praised for their reliability and sound fidelity, which is crucial for both casual listening and professional use.
- When selecting budget studio headphones, to ensure they meet your specific production needs, consider factors such as noise isolation, frequency response, open/closed-back, weight, and comfort.
What Are Studio Headphones?
Studio headphones are a specialized type of audio equipment designed for critical listening tasks such as music production, recording, mixing, and mastering. Unlike regular headphones, which often enhance certain frequencies for a more enjoyable listening experience, studio headphones aim to provide accurate sound reproduction.
This accuracy allows musicians and producers to hear their music as it truly sounds, without any coloration or distortion. By delivering a neutral frequency response, studio headphones enable users to make informed decisions about their music, ensuring that it sounds its best across various playback systems.
Don’t mix with just headphones. Headphones are great for checking mix balance but lack the spatiality and stereo imaging of studio monitors in a room. Monitors reveal things headphones can’t, so use headphones as a tool but don’t finish the mix with them.
So, it’s a good idea to invest in quality studio headphones as an essential step for achieving professional final results.
Why Budget Studio Headphones Matter
Good studio headphones are essential for music production as they connect you directly to the music and help elevate your sound. In a studio setting, studio monitors offer precise monitor mixes, ensuring that what you hear is exactly what you get. This accuracy is crucial for creating professional-quality recordings and mixes.
Budget studio headphones provide first-time buyers with an affordable way to access quality audio without overspending. These headphones provide an accurate representation of music, detail, and balanced levels crucial for mixing.
Technological advancements have significantly enhanced the quality of budget studio headphones, providing superior features at more affordable prices. Additionally, the process of breaking in studio headphones can enhance their sound quality over time, making them a worthwhile long-term investment.
Wired headphones, such as the Sennheiser HD 560S and Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, are particularly valued in studio settings for their reduced latency and superior audio quality. They offer reliable and accurate sound representation, which is crucial for audio engineers and audiophiles.
Neutral frequency responses in budget studio headphones ensure a more accurate sound. This neutrality ensures that your mixes translate well across different playback systems. Quality studio headphones offer clarity for scrutinizing mix details, which is particularly beneficial for beginners in music production and enhances audio quality. Using headphones with artificially-enhanced bass can lead to mixes that sound bass-light on other systems, making neutrality even more critical. The Røde NTH-100 headphones is a good alternative that provide a flat frequency response, suitable for mixing and long sessions without fatigue.
Budget studio headphones strike a balance between affordability and performance, helping both novice and experienced producers achieve excellent results without overspending on cheap studio headphones.
But before making your decision, let’s understand the different types of headphones available on the market.
Types of Studio Headphones
There are several types of studio headphones available, each with unique characteristics and advantages. Understanding these differences can help you choose the best studio headphones for your specific needs.
- Closed-back headphones: These headphones feature a closed ear cup design that helps prevent sound from leaking out and provides excellent sound isolation. This makes them ideal for recording and tracking as they help prevent sound from bleeding into the microphone. Closed-back headphones are also great for environments where external noise is a concern.
- Open-back headphones: With an open ear cup design, these headphones allow sound to escape, providing a more natural and accurate soundstage. They are often preferred for mixing and mastering because they offer a wider soundstage and better stereo imaging. However, they are less effective at isolating external noise, making them better suited for quiet environments.
- Semi-open headphones: These headphones offer a balance between the sound isolation of closed-back headphones and the natural soundstage of open-back headphones. They are versatile and can be used for both recording and mixing, making them a good all-around choice for various studio tasks.
- Wireless headphones: Utilizing wireless technology, these headphones provide users with the freedom to move around without being tethered to their equipment. They are ideal for those who value mobility and flexibility while working on music projects. Modern wireless studio headphones, such as the AIAIAI TMA-2 Studio Wireless+, offer high audio fidelity and minimal latency, making them suitable for professional use.
So, without further ado, let’s discover your next studio headphones.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x – The Versatile Choice
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x has earned its reputation in the industry for its versatility. With a relatively decent frequency response consistency across various listening sessions, these headphones deliver a tight, punchy low-end and detailed midrange. Reviewers are consistently impressed by the amazingly detailed mids and solid bass quality, making them a favorite among producers.
As wired headphones, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x offers reliable performance and superior audio quality.
The ATH-M50x’s build quality is another standout feature. These headphones are recognized for their sturdy and durable build, utilizing dense plastic for the ear cups and headband. The design allows for folding, making them portable and easy to carry, although they might be considered bulky compared to other designs. Rotating padded ear cups and a metal band add to their professional feel and practicality.
Despite some issues with pressure distribution and weight, leading to discomfort during prolonged use, the ATH-M50x remains a studio staple due to its affordability and professional-level sound. The headphones are outstanding for a range of audio purposes, including movies, music, and gaming, and come with multiple cords for added flexibility.
So, if you’re tracking vocals, recording guitar, or producing electronic music, the ATH-M50x offers the sound quality and versatility needed for various styles of music. Its well-balanced sound and accurate reproduction make it a reliable choice for studio monitoring and mixing.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x combines excellent sound reproduction, durability, and versatility, making it one of the best budget studio headphones. It’s a solid investment for any music producer looking to achieve professional results without a hefty price tag.
Sony MDR-7506 – Best for Detailed Sound Monitoring
The Sony MDR-7506 studio monitor headphones have been a staple in studios since their introduction in 1991, thanks to their reliable performance. With their neutral sound profile and flat response, these headphones excel in detailed monitoring, making them a favorite among producers for mixing. Their sound quality and well-roundedness ensure that every detail is captured accurately during mixing and mastering sessions.
Featuring a closed-back design, the Sony MDR-7506 provides excellent sound isolation, which is crucial when mixing tracks to prevent external noises from affecting what’s being heard. The sound characteristic includes clear highs, precise mids, and a clear response, ensuring that your mixes translate well across different playback systems.
The frequency range of the Sony MDR-7506 is between 10Hz and 20kHz, providing a wide scope of sound detail. This wide range allows for accurate reproduction of both low and high frequencies, making it easier to identify and address any issues in your mix.
The Sony MDR-7506 also excels in comfort. Lightweight and ergonomically designed, they allow for extended use without discomfort. Evenly distributed pressure ensures that you can wear them for long listening sessions without experiencing ear fatigue.
The foldable design of the Sony MDR-7506 enhances practicality, making them easy to store and transport. The combination of comfort, practicality, and value makes the Sony MDR-7506 an excellent choice for studio use.
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro – Reliable and Affordable
The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro is a reliable and affordable choice for music producers seeking quality studio headphones. With dynamic, closed transducer technology, these headphones offer effective noise isolation, ideal for noisy environments. This isolation ensures you can focus on your mix without being distracted by external sounds.
Additionally, these headphones are highly regarded for their great sound quality in a sub-$ 100 range, making them a cost-effective choice. As wired headphones, the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro also offers effective noise isolation and superior sound quality.
With a frequency response range from 8 Hz to 25 kHz, the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro ensures detailed sound reproduction across a wide range of frequencies. This wide range allows for accurate monitoring of both low and high frequencies, making it easier to create balanced mixes. Well-designed studio headphones may post frequency ranges that reach above 20 kHz due to the detailed frequencies relevant to audio perception.
The soft ear pads of the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro enhance comfort, making them ideal for long listening sessions. This comfort is essential for music producers who spend extended periods in the studio.
The collapsible construction of the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro makes them easy to carry and store, adding to their practicality. The blend of reliable performance, comfort, and affordability makes the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro a top pick for budget-conscious music producers.
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO – Comfort and Clarity
Renowned for its comfort and clarity, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO is a popular choice among music producers. These headphones remain comfortable during long listening sessions, causing no fatigue, thanks to their even pressure distribution. As wired headphones, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO provides comfort and clarity for extended listening sessions. Compared to other models like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO is more comfortable for extended use.
In terms of sound quality, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO delivers clarity with a frequency range from 5Hz to 35kHz. This wide range ensures that you can hear every detail in your mix, from the deepest bass to the highest treble. The slight increase in bass response further enhances listening enjoyment, making these headphones suitable for various music genres.
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO is available in different impedance options (32, 250, and 600 ohms) to suit different audio setups. This flexibility ensures that you can find the right model for your specific needs, whether you’re using them with a mobile device or a professional audio interface. Low-impedance headphones are designed for casual listening devices, while high-impedance headphones are suited for professional studio equipment.
Handmade in Germany, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO features robust construction. The balanced design allows them to sit securely on the head, adding to their overall comfort and usability.
Finally, this headphone delivers a blend of comfort, clarity, and durability, establishing it as one of the best budget studio headphones for music production.
AKG K240 MKII – Semi-Open Back for Balanced Sound
The AKG K240 MKII’s semi-open back design merges the benefits of both open and closed-back headphones. This design allows for a more natural sound with better stereo imaging while still providing some level of sound isolation. The result is a spacious and balanced sound that is suitable for various music genres.
Known for their durability, these best headphones are perfect for extensive studio sessions. The self-adjusting headband ensures a comfortable fit during prolonged use, allowing you to focus on your music without discomfort.
The AKG K240 MKII offers an affordable option for beginner producers or those needing a secondary pair of headphones. Despite their affordability, they provide pleasing audio reproduction that can rival more expensive models. However, it’s worth noting that they can lack volume when driven by a phone or laptop without an amp.
In summary, the AKG K240 MKII offers a balanced sound, comfort, and durability at an affordable price, making it a great choice for music producers on a budget.
Best Wireless Options for Music Production
Wireless studio headphones offer the convenience of mobility, freeing you from being tethered to your equipment. The AIAIAI TMA-2 Studio Wireless+ headphones are an excellent example, offering high audio fidelity and Bluetooth connectivity. These headphones can be used as Bluetooth wireless headphones or with a low latency transmitter, ensuring minimal delay during music production sessions.
A standout feature of the AIAIAI TMA-2 Studio Wireless+ headphones is their impressive battery life. With over 40 hours of battery life on a single charge, you can work on your projects for extended periods without worrying about recharging. Such long battery life is vital for uninterrupted music production and mastering sessions.
The Bluetooth 5.0 technology used in these headphones enhances connectivity and audio performance, providing a seamless experience for recording audio and mastering music. The headphones also utilize a custom bio-cellulose diaphragm, significantly improving sound clarity and ensuring that your mixes are accurate and detailed.
Comfort is equally prioritized, with the AIAIAI TMA-2 Studio Wireless+ featuring memory foam cushions for a pleasant listening experience during long sessions. Overall, these wireless studio headphones combine convenience, sound quality, and comfort, making them ideal for music production.
Studio Headphones for Specific Tasks
Mixing and Mastering
When it comes to mixing and mastering, accuracy and detail are paramount. Open-back headphones are often the preferred choice for these tasks due to their ability to provide a more natural and accurate soundstage. This design allows for better stereo imaging and a more precise representation of the audio.
Popular open-back headphones for mixing and mastering include the Sennheiser HD 600 and the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO. These models are known for their exceptional clarity and balanced sound, making them ideal for critical listening and ensuring that your mixes translate well across different playback systems.
Casual Listening
For casual listening, comfort and sound quality are key considerations. Closed-back headphones are often favored for this purpose because they provide better sound isolation and are generally more comfortable to wear for extended periods. Models like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x and the Sony MDR-7506 are popular choices for casual listening.
These headphones offer excellent audio quality and a comfortable fit, making them suitable for enjoying music, movies, and gaming. Their closed-back design also helps to minimize external noise, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in your audio experience.
So, whether you’re mixing, mastering, or simply enjoying your favorite tunes, by understanding the different types of studio headphones and their specific applications, you can make the perfect decision and choose the best studio headphones for your needs.
Key Features to Consider When Buying Budget Studio Headphones
When purchasing budget studio headphones, consider several key features to ensure the best value for your money. Excellent passive noise isolation is crucial for minimizing outside noise during music production, allowing you to focus on your mix without distractions. Isolation is achieved through padded ear cups, clamping force, and design type, enhancing the headphones’ overall sound isolation capabilities.
Comfort is crucial in studio headphones because users often wear them for extended periods, impacting their ability to focus on mixing tasks. Additionally, using headphones can help find frequency clashes and other details that might not be apparent on speakers.
Wired headphones offer reliability and sound fidelity, which are crucial for accurate sound reproduction.
A neutral frequency response is crucial for accurate sound reproduction, ensuring the headphones do not color the sound. Unlike consumer headphones, which often boost bass frequencies, studio headphones are designed for a flat frequency response, providing an accurate representation of your mix.
This neutrality is important for critical listening and ensures that your mixes translate well across different playback systems. While the ideal studio headphone has a completely flat frequency response, achieving this is rare, particularly in lower-priced models. Frequency response describes how headphones interpret the frequencies they hear, potentially causing issues in headphone mixes if not balanced correctly.
Again, comfort is a key factor, particularly during long studio hours: It is influenced by factors such as ear cup padding, headband design, and overall weight. Comfortable ear pads and a self-adjusting headband can make a significant difference in reducing ear fatigue and ensuring that you can work on your projects for extended periods without discomfort. Lightweight headphones are generally more comfortable for long production sessions. Even seasoned professionals can benefit from budget headphones, as they may reveal flaws masked by high-end models.
Selecting the right studio headphones is crucial as they greatly influence the quality of music production results.
It’s common for studios to have multiple pairs of headphones for different tasks, such as one for mixing and another for tracking or general listening. Headphone tests often check for frequency response, spatial response, playback quality, and isolation to ensure effective mixing environments.
Try considering these key features, and you can find the best budget studio headphones that meet your needs and help you achieve great results, saving your bucks!
Open-Back vs Closed-Back Headphones for Studio Use
Grasping the differences between open-back and closed-back headphones is vital for selecting the right model. Open-back headphones are designed with vents that allow sound to flow in and out, leading to a more natural listening experience.
They have a grill that allows sound to escape, providing a more natural and airy sound. Soundstage and clarity are important factors in open-back headphones, making them favorable for mixing and mastering in quiet environments.
Compared to closed-back headphones, open-back headphones provide a wider soundstage and better stereo imaging, avoiding exaggerating bass frequencies and making them ideal for mixing and mastering.
However, if open-back headphones are better for creating an open soundstage, they can compromise noise isolation, making them less suitable for recording. Professional studio headphones are designed for different uses, such as tracking, mixing, and critical listening, influenced by their design (open-back vs. closed-back).
Open-back headphones are especially suitable for mixing in quiet environments. However, one limitation is that they let in external noise, and sound can leak to the outside, which can be a problem in shared or noisy spaces. Open-back headphones are unsuitable for noisy environments because they leak sound.
Using open-back headphones in a minimally treated room can yield a more accurate representation of mixes compared to studio monitors. They are recommended for use in quiet spaces where you can focus on the details of your mix without distractions, making them ideal for casual listening.
On the other hand, closed-back headphones help isolate sound, making them suitable for monitoring and recording. Their sealed construction often enhances bass response, which is beneficial for bass-heavy music. Ideal for tracking instruments, closed-back headphones prevent sound leakage into microphones and provide good passive noise isolation, even without active noise cancellation.
The sealed ear cups focus sound directly into the ears while blocking out external noise.
Closed-back headphones are preferable in noisy environments or where sound leakage is a concern. They are also recommended for commuting, studio recording, or office listening due to their noise isolation capabilities.
Ultimately, the choice between open-back and closed-back headphones, of course, also depends on your specific studio use and the environment in which you work.
How to Care for Your Budget Studio Headphones
Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital to preserving performance and extending the lifespan of your studio headphones. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to dust off the headphones without scratching their surfaces. Mild soap diluted with water is recommended for cleaning various headphone components safely, ensuring that you do not damage any parts.
Cotton swabs or soft brushes are useful for cleaning hard-to-reach areas. Remove detachable parts during cleaning to access dirt in less accessible areas. After cleaning, allow the headphones to air dry fully before reassembling to prevent moisture-related damage. Avoid using hair dryers or other heat sources, as they may warp or damage the headphone materials.
Following these cleaning tips, and maintain your budget studio headphones in top condition, ensuring they deliver great sound quality and comfort for years.
Comparison Table
Ok, here we break down all the Key Features of the headphones models we’ve just discussed in a very handy comparison table:
| Model Name | Key Features | Frequency Response | Comfort Level | Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Versatile, durable, foldable design, detailed mids, tight low-end | 15Hz – 28kHz | Moderate (pressure on ears) | $170 – $200 | Multi-purpose audio tasks, mixing |
| Sony MDR-7506 | Flat response, closed-back, excellent sound isolation, lightweight, foldable | 10Hz – 20kHz | High (light and ergonomic) | $80 – $130 | Detailed sound monitoring, mixing |
| Sennheiser HD 280 Pro | Effective noise isolation, dynamic closed transducer, collapsible construction | 8Hz – 25kHz | Moderate (soft ear pads) | $100 – $120 | Recording in noisy environments |
| Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO | Superior clarity, durable, multiple impedance options, wide frequency range | 5Hz – 35kHz | High (even pressure distribution) | $150 – $200 | Long sessions, immersive mixing |
| AKG K240 MKII | Semi-open back, self-adjusting headband, balanced sound, durable design | 15Hz – 25kHz | High (light and adjustable) | $70 – $100 | Balanced sound, beginner-friendly |
| AIAIAI TMA-2 Wireless+ | Bluetooth 5.0, low latency, bio-cellulose diaphragm, 40+ hours battery life | Not Specified | High (memory foam cushions) | $300 – $350 | Wireless functionality, mastering |
Summary
In summary, choosing the right budget studio headphones can significantly impact your music production quality. From the versatile Audio-Technica ATH-M50x to the reliable Sennheiser HD 280 Pro, each model offers unique features and benefits that cater to different needs and preferences. We’ve also explored wireless options like the AIAIAI TMA-2 Studio Wireless+ for those who value mobility and convenience.
We now know that to make your choice, it is crucial to understand the key features to consider, such as sound isolation, frequency response, and comfort, right? Additionally, knowing the differences between open-back and closed-back headphones can help you select the best model for your specific studio use.
Ultimately, investing in the best budget studio headphones will elevate your music production and help you achieve professional results without breaking the bank. Happy mixing!
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes studio headphones different from regular headphones?
Studio headphones differ from regular headphones in that they provide accurate sound reproduction with a neutral frequency response, making them ideal for mixing and monitoring, whereas regular headphones typically enhance bass or treble for a more casual listening experience.
Are wireless studio headphones suitable for professional music production?
Yes, wireless studio headphones can be suitable for professional music production, as they provide high audio fidelity, Bluetooth connectivity, and minimal latency, exemplified by models such as the AIAIAI TMA-2 Studio Wireless+.
How important is sound isolation in studio headphones?
Sound isolation is essential in studio headphones for precise monitoring, as it reduces external noise and distractions. Closed-back designs offer superior isolation, making them preferable for focused audio work.
Can budget studio headphones provide good sound quality?
Yes, budget studio headphones can provide good sound quality due to advancements in technology, offering a cost-effective solution for quality audio.
How should I clean and maintain my studio headphones?
To maintain your studio headphones, regularly clean them with a soft, lint-free cloth and mild soap, using cotton swabs for detailed areas. Always let them air-dry completely before reassembling and avoid heat sources to prevent damage.
Suggested Reading
Best Studio Monitors for Music Production
Practice and Enjoy!
