#10 Best Studio Headphones for Mixing 2023

Creating an audio masterpiece needs more than a talent but also a cooperative friend. Take these best studio headphones for mixing and be productive now!

👤 Written by: L. W. R. Ulla
⏳ Updated on:
📋 List: 10 items
👀 Reader: 32 views

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Mixing, recording, and mastering can be more tiring when you are not featured with the best studio headphones. Either the noise sounds like a crumble, the detail seems to keep missing, the cord is too annoying, or other obstacles. Meanwhile, we know creating music is fun but too complicated to handle; you need a partner that can work cooperatively to produce the masterpiece with less stress. Here are the best studio headphones for mixing.

On this list, we have collected the best studio headphones for mixing in 2022 and are backed up by the audiophile expertise on their blog in examining these studio headphones. What are they? How do they work? Get your curiosity answered by keep scrolling this page!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

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What makes the best studio headphones for mixing necessary?

When mixing, you need an audio tool that helps you to notice the sound representation of the soundstage. And for this, you cannot use neutral-listening headphones because there are many details you need to notice. By using the best studio headphones for mixing, you can get the closest portrayal of your audio mixing being heard by the audience.

Which is better, open-back or closed-back headphones?

For the best studio headphones for mixing, you can use both according to your needs. It won’t matter which headphones you use for classy audio mixing in the studio. However, there are obvious differences between the two.

  • Open-back headphones have higher audio leakage, so people around you can still hear what’s playing in your ears. For mixing, open back helps you make the right decisions and is comfortable for long mixing sessions. Generally, many experts advise picking this type for your mixing project.
  • Closed-back headphones are tighter. They tend not to leak, or only slightly. So this type of headphone is suitable for recording backing tracks or what others call clean vocal tracks.

How to know the comfortability of these mixing studio headphones?

While audio projection is important, comfortability level is also something not to be overlooked when deciding on the best studio headphones for mixing. Here are some points that indicate the comfort level of the headphones on your head.

  • The padding: should be thick and stuffy enough to protect your ear
  • The earcups: oversized earcups for large ears will be so comfortable
  • The cord: either wireless or wired, the cord is the aspect you need to consider

What to consider the best studio headphones for mixing?

  • Impedance: measured in ohm, it defines the power your headphones need.
  • Sensitivity: measured in dB, it tells how loud your headphones are during practice.
  • Frequency response: measured in Hz, it covers the frequency range your item can output.
  • Driver type: it can be dynamic or magnetic.
  • Driver diameter: the more powerful bass and overall sound you need, the larger the driver.

 

*Disclaimer. We can not guarantee that the information on this page is 100% correct. Read more
Name Rank Check Prices
Pro Audio K872 Master Reference AKG
AKG
Pro Audio K872 Master Reference
#1 Amazon Reverb.com eBay
SRH1840 Open-back Mastering and Studio Headphones Shure
Shure
SRH1840 Open-back Mastering and Studio Headphones
#2 Amazon Sweetwater.com eBay
Pro Audio K245 Over-Ear AKG
AKG
Pro Audio K245 Over-Ear
#3 Amazon Akg.com eBay
DT 880 Pro Over-Ear Studio Headphone  Beyerdynamic
Beyerdynamic
DT 880 Pro Over-Ear Studio Headphone
#4 Amazon Sweetwater.com eBay
HD 560 S Headphones Sennheiser
Sennheiser
HD 560 S Headphones
#5 Amazon Bestbuy.com eBay
HD 681 Dynamic Semi-Open Headphones  Superlux
Superlux
HD 681 Dynamic Semi-Open Headphones
#6 Amazon Thomannmusic.com eBay
MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone  Sony
Sony
MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
#7 Amazon Bhphotovideo.com eBay
Technologies SR850 Semi Open-Back Studio Samson
Samson
Technologies SR850 Semi Open-Back Studio
#8 Amazon Sweetwater.com eBay
ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones Audio-Technica
Audio-Technica
ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
#9 Amazon Bestbuy.com eBay
QuietComfort 35 Wireless Headphones Bose
Bose
QuietComfort 35 Wireless Headphones
#10 Amazon Sweetwater.com eBay

10 List of Best Studio Headphones for Mixing

  • AKG Pro Audio K872 Master Reference
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    with this product?
    #1

    AKG Pro Audio K872 Master Reference

    Delivering best-in-class headroom and dynamic range

    3  readers vote
    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    In the first list of the best studio headphones for mixing, AKG with the Pro Audio K872 takes first place. With 53mm transducers, these headphones can deliver best-in-class headroom and dynamic range. Making it perfect for mastering, mixing, and mastering references anywhere, on the go, as this item is portable. Even better, the construction of this item is made of metal. Everything is made with precision, from the headband to the Cardan hinge, to stay snug and comfortable in your ears.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Brilliant accuracy with very low impedance
    Perfect for shutting out external noise
    Produces clear sound after a breaking-in period

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Lacks in the response curve
    Lacking compared to open-backed headphones

    What other experts liked

    Combined with a Grace Design m920, an Apogee Groove, or a MIYO, it delivers audio that will simply stun you with its beauty and detail.
    Recording Mag

    What other experts didn't like

    For some consumers, the price will be a tough pill to swallow.
    Nerd Techy
  • Shure SRH1840 Open-back Mastering and Studio Headphones
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    with this product?
    #2

    Shure SRH1840 Open-back Mastering and Studio Headphones

    Delivers the unmatched acoustic performance

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Built with high-quality materials from aircraft-grade aluminum alloy yoke and stainless steel, these studio mixing headphones are considered lightweight. Even better, it comes with an ergonomic design. A dual-frame with a padded headband is adjustable to suit the wearer’s comfort.

    For mastering, recording, and even mixing, Shure’s SRH1840 is a perfect choice. It features a 40mm neodymium driver for unmatched acoustic performance. Thus, accurate, extended high-end, and smooth bass is achieved with this headband.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Highly analytical and technical sound
    Intended for both studio and live performances
    Comes with replacement pads and cables out of the box

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Irreplaceable leather headband
    High distortion levels

    What other experts liked

    One of Shure's first open-back designs, the SRH1840 headphones are comfortable and light, and the sound will surely thrill demanding audiophiles.

    What other experts didn't like

    Seeing that these are open-back headphones, they don’t do anything for noise cancellation.
    Higher Hz
  • AKG Pro Audio K245 Over-Ear
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    with this product?
    #3

    AKG Pro Audio K245 Over-Ear

    Greater low-frequency extension

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Still, from the AKG but with the Pro Audio K245 Over-Ear. This item provides your mixing, mastering, and recording experience to the next level. The foldable design and improved technical performance of the K240 make your heart stolen by this headphone.

    The transducers are rated for 50mm, considered the largest in class. Undoubtedly, this item will deliver greater low-frequency extension. Meanwhile, the frequency response is unrivaled in terms of clarity and detail. At last, the headphone surely will take the studio-quality sounds everywhere with you.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Great sound quality
    Replaceable cable
    Foldable design

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Too smooth treble
    Earpads are a bit stiff

    What other experts liked

    The attractive and inexpensive AKG K245 meets professional requirements in every respect and has a good chance of establishing itself as a future studio classic – be sure to check it out!
    Liquid Audio

    What other experts didn't like

    In the treble, however, the headphones lack the necessary flexibility required to really score and take home top marks.
    Headphone Check
  • Sennheiser HD 560 S Headphones
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    with this product?
    #5

    Sennheiser HD 560 S Headphones

    Moderately high impedance at 120 ohms

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Reveal the actual music with the HD 560S from Sennheiser. It is one of the best studio headphones for mixing at an affordable price available on the market. Even though most of the construction is made from plastic, the quality of this headphone will not disappoint you.

    According to some experts, this studio headphone’s midrange lacks coloration, making it suitable for mixing or mastering. Meanwhile, the impedance is considered to be moderately high at 120 ohms. To loud the sound pressure levels, you can drive it from a computer or smartphone. A 6.3 mm jack and an extra 3.5 mm adapter are included in the pack.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Expansive, detailed presentation
    Open and airy soundstage
    Light and comfortable

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    The mid-bass texture is lacking
    Lower-treble peaks can get fatiguing

    What other experts liked

    The Sennheiser HD 560S are great for neutral sound. Vocals and lead instruments are present, detailed, and clear in the mix, and the audio is delivered with impressive consistency.

    What other experts didn't like

    Some of the downsides, the proprietary twist-and-lock cable makes replacement difficult.
    Headphonesty
  • Superlux HD 681 Dynamic Semi-Open Headphones
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    with this product?
    #6

    Superlux HD 681 Dynamic Semi-Open Headphones

    Slightly sharp sound that makes it perfect for studio works

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    The Superlux HD681 headphones perhaps hold the cheapest entity among all mixing studio headphones. Surprisingly, for such a low price, the quality of this studio headphone deserves thumbs-up. From the construction itself, even though it is made from plastic, the over-eat format fit is comfortable.

    While the headband has a self-adjusting system with double materials for mixing studio headphones, it has a flat mid-range response that ensures clear and accurate instruments. On the other hand, the treble has a slightly sharp sound that makes it perfect for studio works.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    A very detailed sound with hi-fi quality
    Deliver even bass response
    Affordable with high comforts

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Less aesthetic build
    Not very dynamic

    What other experts liked

    The Superlux HD 681 is a good budget option for neutral listening. They have slightly more extended bass and deliver a satisfying audio reproduction that caters well to instruments and vocals.

    What other experts didn't like

    It can sound shrill with bright material and the open design means they don't work well in loud environments.
  • Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
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    with this product?
    #7

    Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone

    An old friend to many audio technicians and engineers

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    A well-balanced sound, nicely clear mids, and sharp at high frequency are the traits of this Sony MDR-7506. Though it is not perfect for commute or casual listening, this product is designed to mix studio headphones. So the details and errors in recording can be brought up clearly with this item.

    Indeed, for many years MDR-7506 has been a kind of studio headphone that’s been an old friend to many audio technicians and engineers. The portability is nice, too, the cup design can be folded, and you can keep it in the included pouch. Thanks to the lightweight build, you will enjoy wearing these headphones for a couple of hours.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Lightweight & comfortable
    Well-balanced, precise sound
    Good sound for mixing

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    The foldable design feels a bit flimsy
    Poor noise isolation

    What other experts liked

    Good for neutral listening. The Sony MDR-7506 has a well-balanced sound with a punchy bass that doesn't drown the excellent mid-range.

    What other experts didn't like

    The Sony MDR-7506's heavy cord can be overlong in some situations.
    Music Radar
  • Samson Technologies SR850 Semi Open-Back Studio
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    with this product?
    #8

    Samson Technologies SR850 Semi Open-Back Studio

    Studio headphone quality with price three times lower

    1  readers vote
    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    If you are looking for a high-end studio headphone quality with price three times lower, then SR850 by Samson can be your mixing studio headphone. It has the quality of full-range and clear personal mastering headphones at an affordable price. Even better, the frequency response quality is clean and high, beyond the range of the human sense of hearing. Plus, it delivers deep and rich bass.

    Plus, the design is semi-open, perfect for giving detailed parts of your music project. Either tracking, mixing, mastering, or playback can be done with these headphones. The proprietary is about 50mm large to present a great dynamic range.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Decent durability
    Lightweight construction
    6.3mm adapter included in the box

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Poor leakage and noise isolation by design
    No case or pouch included

    What other experts liked

    With the Samson SR850, I could quickly pick point problems from my mixes that I sometimes tend to misjudge when monitoring speakers, so the SR850 would be really handy for checking your mixes.
    Audio Mentor

    What other experts didn't like

    They do, however, similarly leak their sound. So, unless your room isn’t completely quiet, others can’t hear what you’re listening to.
    Headphones Addict
  • Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
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    with this product?
    #9

    Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones

    Often praised by many top audio engineers

    1  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    Among the recording community, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is considered a well-known studio headphone for long recording, mastering, and mixing sessions. Particularly the well-padded headband and oversized ear cups make you enjoy the mixing process with no whine.

    This headphone is designed to be closed-back, so it leaks less audio than open-back headphones. For so, this item is often praised by many top audio reviewers and engineers. When you use this closed-back headphone, you will notice the unparallel clarity throughout your recording from the extended frequency range and deep, accurate bass response.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Extreme and vivid clarity between each instrument
    Sturdy and comfortable build
    Great Soundstage for a closed-back model

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    No buttons or audio control options
    Earpads are prone to cracking, peeling, and hardening

    What other experts liked

    Overall, I would put the isolation of the M50x at a good score. They do block and drown out the noise in less busy streets or places.
    Sound Gear Lab

    What other experts didn't like

    It won’t lend you the most neutral or even bassy sound, but on the whole, it translates your audio quite reliably.
    Sound Guys
  • Bose QuietComfort 35 Wireless Headphones
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    with this product?
    #10

    Bose QuietComfort 35 Wireless Headphones

    Three levels of world-class noise cancellation

    1  readers vote
    2  experts agree 1  experts disagree
    WHY WE LIKE IT:

    On the last page, we save the best for the last. Thanks to the three levels of world-class noise cancellation, Bose’s headphones will be suitable for wearing in any environment. Even for mixing studio headphones, this choice is superior. Even better, the QuietComfort will also sync when you want to do voice commands through Alexa. For its wireless option, this is the perfect studio headphone.

    Long recording sessions will also get beaten by this superior headphone. The wireless connection can stand up to 20 long hours. Recording, mixing, and mastering usually take a long time; therefore, a comfort pad is needed. Say no more. From the audio quality to comfort level, this headphone beats all the candidates.

    Pros (reasons to buy)

    Can be used as a wired headphone (cord included)
    Works as an advanced Bluetooth headset
    NFC pairing for devices that support it
    Amazing noise cancellation

    Cons (reasons to avoid)

    Subtle active EQ quality

    What other experts liked

    The Bose QuietComfort 35 II has some of the best noise canceling in the business, and it's regarded as one of the most comfortable headsets.
    Sound Guys
    It is an impressive noise-cancelling smart-headphones that are great on-the-go.
    What Hi-Fi

    What other experts didn't like

    The noise-canceling sensation is odd at first and feels a little like being in a pressurized cabin. Plus, the active EQ is subtle.
    Tech Radar

Conclusion: Best Studio Headphones for Mixing

That’s all about the best studio headphones for mixing. We have outlined buying tips and recommendations for the best headphones to support your mixing activities, whether as a hobby or a promising profession. Finally, after choosing the best product, you should also pay attention to how you use it so that it won’t hurt your hearing. Make sure you leave a little headroom in your mixer, making the volume no higher than a normal conversation.

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