The Best Studio Headphones for 2024 (2024)

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Why We Picked It

Etymotic’s ER4 XR in-ear monitors (IEMs) are among the most accurate and transparent models available to consumers and pros alike—their drivers tell the unvarnished truth. They add a small amount of low-frequency emphasis, however, so they don't sound quite as clinical as the ER4 XRS version. Impressively, the company matches the left and right drivers to within 1 dB of each other, and, together, they deliver a frequency range of 100Hz to 10kHz—perfect for a reference pair.

Who It’s For

If you want earphones that make you feel better about how your mix sounds, these aren't for you. But we find their brutally honest presentation invaluable. Yes, these monitors enhance the lows a bit, but they still sound more accurate than the vast majority of competitors.

Why We Picked It

The DT 700 Pro X headphones have massive earpads with soft, breathable velour lining, a welcome antidote to the pleather material that most other studio models use. More importantly, the sound signature is balanced, detailed, and rich. A frequency range of 5Hz to 40kHz means the drivers are fully capable of summoning any deep lows in the mix, though accuracy remains the primary focus. All of these qualities help secure them as one of our favorites for tracking.

Who It’s For

If you’re looking for headphones that can smoothly transition from tracking audio to checking mixes to playing back music for enjoyment, look no further. We especially appreciate the high-quality mini-XLR cable, which is a step above what you get with most competitors.

Why We Picked It

The DT 770 Studio monitors are a somewhat more affordable alternative to DT 700 Pro X for people who crave the Beyerdynamic sonic presentation. The massive circumaural earpads feature a soft velour material and fit securely, which makes them a strong option for tracking. The sound signature exhibits plenty of balance and adheres close to reality, so you shouldn't ever be shocked by how things sound through speakers.

Who It’s For

Beyerdynamic sells 32-, 80-, and 250-ohm variants of this model, which are respectively good for mobile listening, live recordings, and studio mixing. Most people should probably steer clear of the 32-ohm version, but we like the option to match impedance to a specific task because doing so helps ensure the best possible performance.

Why We Picked It

Do other headphones look better and offer more compelling sound signatures? Sure, but hear us out. The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro over-ears stay comfortable over long tracking sessions and won't hide any imperfections. If your audio project sounds good through their drivers, you’re likely moving in the right direction—think of them as the tracking headphone equivalent of the Yamaha NS-10 studio monitors.

Who It’s For

These can competently serve as both tracking and mixing headphones for budget home studio setups. They don't produce too much rumble relative to modern entries (despite a frequency range of 8Hz-25kHz), but they make up for it with excellent clarity in the midrange and highs. We're also fans of the replaceable earpads, which we don't anticipate Sennheiser will stop selling anytime soon.

Why We Picked It

The Ultimate Ears UE 18+ Pro offer the flat response and excellent accuracy that stage performers, studio engineers, and musicians need without ever sounding too clinical. A whopping six drivers in a four-way crossover system deliver the audio here, so you won't need to strain to hear every detail.

Who It’s For

These in-ear monitors can bring peace of mind to professionals and sound engineers who want a flat response all the way down to the sub-bass realm. They won't appeal to consumers who just want to listen to music, however, because of their revealing presentation and sky-high price.

Why We Picked It

They have been on the market for years now, but the Ultimate Ears UE 5 Pro IEMs are still among the most affordable custom-molded models you can buy. Inside each earpiece, dual balanced armature drivers—one for the mids and highs, and another for the lows—deliver a frequency range of 5Hz to 22kHz.

Who It’s For

If you require custom-molded earphones for the stage or studio work, Ultimate Ears is a good place to start. Just keep in mind that you pay a lot for the privilege. The UE 5 Pro model is at least an entry-level in this segment, however, so it costs significantly less than competitors.

Why We Picked It

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones sound accurate without eliminating bass from the equation—something that often gets lost in this market segment. We also found them comfortable for long listening sessions and like the detachable cable accessories that arrive in the package—a 3.9-foot connector, a 9.8-foot wire, and a coiled cable that stretches from 3.9 to 9.8 feet. The cables also have a twist-lock mechanism that keeps them secure.

Who It’s For

These headphones aren't just for tracking or mixing—the 90-degree swiveling design of each earcup also enables easy, single-ear monitoring for DJs.Overall, they’re great for providing the kind of accuracy and realistic bass response many headphones simply can't.

Why We Picked It

Sennheiser's IE 200 in-ear monitors are quite affordable relative to their competitors. Their 7mm dynamic drivers deliver a frequency range of 6Hz to 20kHz and produce a natural, detailed sound. MMCX connectors mean you can replace or upgrade the cable whenever you want, while the included memory foam tips ensure excellent isolation.

Who It’s For

If your budget is strictly under $200, these Sennheiser earphones are ideal for both mixing and leisurely listening. They present all the details of music as the original artist or engineer intended.

Why We Picked It

Rode's focus on portable, affordable audio accessories for video creators has earned it a loyal fan base. The NTH-100 studio headphones are the company's first foray into this segment and they sound great. Their 40mm dynamic drivers deliver a frequency range of 5Hz to 35kHz and an impedance of 32 ohms. However, their ergonomic design might be the bigger selling point: The cable detaches easily and each pair ships with colorful snap-on accessories, which makes them ideal for multi-person podcast recording sessions.

Who It’s For

Although they are totally suitable for tracking music, Rode markets these more for podcasters who care about long-term comfort. To that end, the earpads and sections of the headband employ a suede-like Alcantara material with memory foam gel padding underneath that keeps everything cool. A locking mechanism on each side of the headband helps ensure a secure, consistent fit.

Why We Picked It

We haven't tested many studio headphones for drummers specifically, but the Roland VMH-D1 offers a clear, mostly accurate sound signature and all the style of classic V-Moda electronic kits. The headphones keep their wires out of the way so you can play unencumbered, while isolating memory foam earpads and an adjustable headband with leather-like material lining ensure they remain comfortable for long tracking sessions. The included wires, adapter, and clip help justify the premium price.

Who It’s For

If you play electronic drums, the Roland VMH-D1 headphones are easy to recommend. They make percussion notes sound fantastic and their clever cable management tricks help prevent interference with your movements.