Discover the best headphones for mixing music with accurate sound representation.
Mixing music is a delicate art that demands precision and accuracy. Choosing the right headphones is crucial for achieving a balanced and professional-sounding mix. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect pair that suits your needs and budget. That’s why we’ve compiled a list of the 22 best headphones for mixing, featuring models designed to deliver exceptional clarity, accuracy, and detail for discerning audio professionals.
From open-back headphones renowned for their spacious soundstage to closed-back models that excel in isolation, we’ve included a diverse range of options catering to various preferences and studio environments. We’ve also considered factors such as comfort, build quality, and portability to ensure you find the ideal pair that fits your workflow and lifestyle.
This comprehensive guide explores the top contenders in the headphone market, offering detailed insights into their strengths and weaknesses. We’ll delve into the key features that make each model stand out, highlighting their sonic performance, comfort, and overall value for money. Whether you’re a seasoned mixing engineer or just starting your audio journey, this list will empower you to choose the perfect pair of headphones to elevate your mixing experience.
Get ready to discover the headphones that will unlock your sonic potential, allowing you to sculpt your tracks with confidence and precision. Join us as we dive into the world of professional audio, where sound clarity meets comfort and reliability.
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| Item | Image | Where to buy | Rating | Read More | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sennheiser HD 650 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Audio-Technica ATH-M50x |  |
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| AKG K240 MKII | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Focal Elegia |  |
N/A | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Shure SRH1540 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| HiFiMan HE400i | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sony MDR-7506 |  |
4.7 out of 5 stars | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Grado SR325e |  |
N/A | Jump to Review | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Sennheiser HD 600 | N/A | Jump to Review | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO
A classic closed-back headphone known for its accuracy and powerful bass response.
Specifications :
- Impedance: 80 ohms
- Frequency response: 5 Hz - 35 kHz
- Sensitivity: 96 dB SPL/mW
- Cable: Detachable, single-sided
Reasons to buy :
- Accurate and detailed sound with a balanced frequency response
- Powerful bass response without being overwhelming
- Comfortable and durable build quality
- Affordable price point
Reasons to avoid :
- Can sound a bit sterile to some listeners
- Not as comfortable for long listening sessions compared to some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're looking for a closed-back headphone with accurate sound and powerful bass
- You need a headphone for mixing and mastering on a budget
- You want a durable and reliable headphone
Don't buy it if:
- You prefer a more open and airy sound
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions without fatigue
Bottom Line:
The DT 770 PRO is a solid choice for mixing engineers who prioritize accuracy and bass response. Its closed-back design helps to isolate you from distractions, and its detailed sound signature allows you to hear every nuance of your mix. However, its somewhat sterile sound may not be for everyone, and its comfort may be a concern for long sessions.
Sennheiser HD 650
A legendary open-back headphone known for its natural and spacious sound.
Specifications :
- Impedance: 300 ohms
- Frequency response: 10 Hz - 41 kHz
- Sensitivity: 103 dB SPL/mW
- Cable: Detachable, single-sided
Reasons to buy :
- Extremely natural and spacious sound with a wide soundstage
- Comfortable and well-built
- Excellent for mixing and mastering, particularly for acoustic music
Reasons to avoid :
- Requires a powerful amplifier to drive to its full potential
- Not as portable as closed-back options
- Can be sensitive to ambient noise
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You prioritize a natural and spacious sound with a wide soundstage
- You need a headphone for mixing and mastering acoustic music
- You have a powerful amplifier to drive them
Don't buy it if:
- You need a headphone with a tight and punchy bass response
- You need a portable and closed-back headphone
- You want a headphone that's not sensitive to ambient noise
Bottom Line:
The HD 650 is a highly respected open-back headphone that offers a natural and spacious sound. It's an excellent choice for mixing and mastering, particularly for acoustic music, as it accurately reproduces the nuances of instruments and vocals. However, its high impedance requires a powerful amplifier, and its open-back design makes it sensitive to ambient noise.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
A popular closed-back headphone known for its affordability and balanced sound.
Specifications :
- Impedance: 38 ohms
- Frequency response: 15 Hz - 28 kHz
- Sensitivity: 99 dB SPL/mW
- Cable: Detachable, single-sided
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price point
- Balanced sound signature with a good amount of bass
- Comfortable and durable build quality
- Foldable design for portability
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as detailed as some other headphones on this list
- Can sound a bit muffled compared to open-back options
- Not as comfortable for long listening sessions compared to some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're looking for a closed-back headphone on a budget
- You need a headphone with a balanced sound signature
- You want a durable and portable headphone
Don't buy it if:
- You prioritize a highly detailed and accurate sound
- You prefer a more open and airy sound
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions without fatigue
Bottom Line:
The ATH-M50x is a popular and affordable closed-back headphone that offers a balanced sound signature and good comfort. It's a great choice for mixing and mastering on a budget, but its lack of detail and slightly muffled sound may not be ideal for those who prioritize accuracy.
AKG K240 MKII
A semi-open headphone known for its comfortable fit and spacious sound.
Specifications :
- Impedance: 55 ohms
- Frequency response: 15 Hz - 25 kHz
- Sensitivity: 102 dB SPL/mW
- Cable: Detachable, single-sided
Reasons to buy :
- Comfortable and well-built
- Spacious and open sound signature
- Affordable price point
- Good for both mixing and listening
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as detailed or accurate as some other options
- Bass response can be a bit lacking
- Not as portable as closed-back options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You prioritize comfort and a spacious sound signature
- You need a headphone for both mixing and listening
- You're looking for an affordable option
Don't buy it if:
- You need a headphone with a tight and punchy bass response
- You prioritize detail and accuracy in your mix
- You want a headphone that's completely closed-back
Bottom Line:
The K240 MKII is a comfortable and affordable semi-open headphone that offers a spacious sound signature. It's a great choice for both mixing and listening, but its lack of detail and somewhat subdued bass may not be ideal for those who prioritize accuracy. Its semi-open design also makes it more sensitive to ambient noise than closed-back options.
Focal Elegia
A high-end closed-back headphone known for its exceptional clarity and detail.
Specifications :
- Impedance: 32 ohms
- Frequency response: 5 Hz - 22 kHz
- Sensitivity: 104 dB SPL/mW
- Cable: Detachable, single-sided
Reasons to buy :
- Extremely detailed and accurate sound with a wide soundstage
- Powerful and controlled bass response
- Comfortable and luxurious build quality
- Excellent for mixing and mastering
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive price tag
- Not as portable as some other options
- Can be sensitive to ambient noise
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You prioritize detail, accuracy, and a wide soundstage in your mix
- You need a headphone for high-end mixing and mastering
- You're willing to spend a premium for quality
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a headphone that's highly portable
- You want a headphone that's not sensitive to ambient noise
Bottom Line:
The Focal Elegia is a high-end closed-back headphone that offers exceptional clarity and detail. Its powerful and controlled bass response makes it ideal for mixing and mastering music with a wide range of genres. However, its expensive price tag, lack of portability, and sensitivity to ambient noise may make it a less attractive option for some.
Shure SRH1540
A professional-grade closed-back headphone known for its accuracy and isolation.
Specifications :
- Impedance: 47 ohms
- Frequency response: 10 Hz - 22 kHz
- Sensitivity: 107 dB SPL/mW
- Cable: Detachable, single-sided
Reasons to buy :
- Highly accurate and detailed sound with a neutral frequency response
- Excellent isolation from ambient noise
- Durable and comfortable build quality
- Popular choice for professional audio engineers
Reasons to avoid :
- Can sound a bit sterile to some listeners
- Not as comfortable for long listening sessions compared to some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You prioritize accuracy, detail, and isolation in your mix
- You need a headphone for professional audio work
- You want a durable and reliable headphone
Don't buy it if:
- You prefer a more warm and engaging sound
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions without fatigue
- You're on a tight budget
Bottom Line:
The Shure SRH1540 is a professional-grade closed-back headphone that offers exceptional accuracy and isolation. Its neutral frequency response makes it an excellent choice for mixing and mastering, as it allows you to hear every nuance of your mix without any coloration. However, its somewhat sterile sound and potential for fatigue during long sessions may not be ideal for all listeners.
HiFiMan HE400i
An open-back planar magnetic headphone known for its detailed and spacious sound.
Specifications :
- Impedance: 25 ohms
- Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Sensitivity: 93 dB SPL/mW
- Cable: Detachable, single-sided
Reasons to buy :
- Extremely detailed and accurate sound with a wide soundstage
- Smooth and natural treble response
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Affordable for a planar magnetic headphone
Reasons to avoid :
- Requires a powerful amplifier to drive to its full potential
- Not as portable as closed-back options
- Can be sensitive to ambient noise
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You prioritize detail, accuracy, and a wide soundstage in your mix
- You want a planar magnetic headphone at an affordable price
- You have a powerful amplifier to drive them
Don't buy it if:
- You need a headphone with a tight and punchy bass response
- You need a portable and closed-back headphone
- You want a headphone that's not sensitive to ambient noise
Bottom Line:
The HiFiMan HE400i is an affordable planar magnetic headphone that offers exceptional detail and a spacious soundstage. It's a great choice for mixing and mastering, as its accurate sound signature allows you to hear every nuance of your mix. However, its high impedance requires a powerful amplifier, and its open-back design makes it sensitive to ambient noise.
Sony MDR-7506
A classic closed-back headphone known for its durability and affordability.
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Specifications :
- Impedance: 63 ohms
- Frequency response: 10 Hz - 20 kHz
- Sensitivity: 106 dB SPL/mW
- Cable: Detachable, single-sided
Reasons to buy :
- Affordable price point
- Durable and well-built
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Good for both mixing and listening
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as detailed or accurate as some other options
- Bass response can be a bit lacking
- Not as comfortable for long listening sessions compared to some other options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You're looking for a closed-back headphone on a budget
- You need a durable and reliable headphone
- You want a headphone for both mixing and listening
Don't buy it if:
- You prioritize detail and accuracy in your mix
- You need a headphone with a tight and punchy bass response
- You want a headphone for long listening sessions without fatigue
Bottom Line:
The MDR-7506 is a classic closed-back headphone that's known for its durability and affordability. It's a good choice for mixing and mastering on a budget, but its lack of detail and somewhat subdued bass may not be ideal for those who prioritize accuracy.
Grado SR325e
An open-back headphone known for its warm and engaging sound.
Specifications :
- Impedance: 32 ohms
- Frequency response: 20 Hz - 20 kHz
- Sensitivity: 99 dB SPL/mW
- Cable: Detachable, single-sided
Reasons to buy :
- Warm and engaging sound with a forward midrange
- Powerful and punchy bass response
- Comfortable and lightweight design
- Good for both mixing and listening
Reasons to avoid :
- Not as detailed or accurate as some other options
- Can sound a bit forward and aggressive to some listeners
- Not as portable as closed-back options
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You prioritize a warm and engaging sound with a forward midrange
- You need a headphone for both mixing and listening
- You want a headphone with a powerful bass response
Don't buy it if:
- You prioritize detail and accuracy in your mix
- You need a headphone with a neutral sound signature
- You want a headphone that's completely closed-back
Bottom Line:
The SR325e is an open-back headphone that's known for its warm and engaging sound. It's a good choice for both mixing and listening, but its forward midrange and aggressive sound may not be ideal for those who prioritize accuracy. Its open-back design also makes it more sensitive to ambient noise than closed-back options.
Sennheiser HD 600
A classic open-back headphone known for its accuracy and detail.
Specifications :
- Impedance: 300 ohms
- Frequency response: 10 Hz - 41 kHz
- Sensitivity: 103 dB SPL/mW
- Cable: Detachable, single-sided
Reasons to buy :
- Highly accurate and detailed sound with a balanced frequency response
- Wide and spacious soundstage
- Comfortable and well-built
- Excellent for both mixing and listening
Reasons to avoid :
- Requires a powerful amplifier to drive to its full potential
- Not as portable as closed-back options
- Can be sensitive to ambient noise
What you need to know :
Buy it if
- You prioritize accuracy and detail in your mix
- You need a headphone with a wide soundstage
- You have a powerful amplifier to drive them
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You need a headphone that's highly portable
- You want a headphone that's not sensitive to ambient noise
Bottom Line:
The HD 600 is a classic open-back headphone that's known for its accuracy and detail. It's a great choice for mixing and mastering, as its balanced sound signature allows you to hear every nuance of your mix. However, its high impedance requires a powerful amplifier, and its open-back design makes it sensitive to ambient noise.
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Beyerdynamic DT 880 PRO
Open-back headphones known for their balanced and detailed sound. They are a popular choice for mixing and mastering due to their accurate frequency response.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 35 kHz
- Impedance: 250 ohms
- Sensitivity: 96 dB SPL
- Weight: 250 grams
Reasons to buy:
- Detailed and accurate sound
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
- Durable build quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit bright in the treble
- Not as isolating as closed-back headphones
- Relatively high impedance
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You want a headphone with a balanced and detailed sound
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions
- You don't mind a bit of background noise
Don't buy it if:
- You need a headphone for noise isolation
- You prefer a warmer sound signature
- You have a low-powered audio source
Bottom Line:
The Beyerdynamic DT 880 PRO is a great choice for mixing and mastering. They offer a detailed and accurate sound that will help you hear every nuance of your music. They are also comfortable to wear for long periods of time. However, they are not as isolating as closed-back headphones and can be a bit bright in the treble. If you're looking for a headphone with a balanced sound and you don't mind a bit of background noise, then the DT 880 PRO is a great option. If you need a headphone for noise isolation or you prefer a warmer sound signature, then you might want to consider another option.
AKG K702
Open-back headphones known for their wide soundstage and natural sound signature. They are a popular choice for mixing and mastering due to their accurate and detailed sound.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 39.8 kHz
- Impedance: 62 ohms
- Sensitivity: 105 dB SPL
- Weight: 260 grams
Reasons to buy:
- Wide soundstage
- Natural and detailed sound
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit thin in the bass
- Not as isolating as closed-back headphones
- Relatively high price
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You want a headphone with a wide soundstage
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions
- You prefer a natural and detailed sound
Don't buy it if:
- You need a headphone for noise isolation
- You prefer a warmer sound signature
- You have a low-powered audio source
Bottom Line:
The AKG K702 is a great choice for mixing and mastering. They offer a wide soundstage and a natural and detailed sound that will help you hear every nuance of your music. They are also comfortable to wear for long periods of time. However, they are not as isolating as closed-back headphones and can be a bit thin in the bass. If you're looking for a headphone with a wide soundstage and you prefer a natural and detailed sound, then the K702 is a great option. If you need a headphone for noise isolation or you prefer a warmer sound signature, then you might want to consider another option.
Audio-Technica ATH-R70x
Open-back headphones known for their neutral and detailed sound. They are a popular choice for mixing and mastering due to their accurate and balanced sound.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 40 kHz
- Impedance: 35 ohms
- Sensitivity: 100 dB SPL
- Weight: 290 grams
Reasons to buy:
- Neutral and detailed sound
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
- Affordable price
Reasons to avoid:
- Not as isolating as closed-back headphones
- Can be a bit bright in the treble
- Not as wide soundstage as some other open-back headphones
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You want a headphone with a neutral and detailed sound
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions
- You're on a budget
Don't buy it if:
- You need a headphone for noise isolation
- You prefer a warmer sound signature
- You want a headphone with a very wide soundstage
Bottom Line:
The Audio-Technica ATH-R70x is a great choice for mixing and mastering. They offer a neutral and detailed sound that will help you hear every nuance of your music. They are also comfortable to wear for long periods of time and are relatively affordable. However, they are not as isolating as closed-back headphones and can be a bit bright in the treble. If you're looking for a headphone with a neutral sound and you're on a budget, then the ATH-R70x is a great option. If you need a headphone for noise isolation or you prefer a warmer sound signature, then you might want to consider another option.
Shure SRH840
Closed-back headphones known for their accurate and detailed sound. They are a popular choice for mixing and mastering due to their neutral sound signature and excellent isolation.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 28 kHz
- Impedance: 85 ohms
- Sensitivity: 107 dB SPL
- Weight: 320 grams
Reasons to buy:
- Accurate and detailed sound
- Excellent noise isolation
- Durable build quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit fatiguing for long listening sessions
- Not as comfortable as some other headphones
- Relatively high price
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You need a headphone for noise isolation
- You want a headphone with a neutral sound signature
- You're willing to pay a premium for quality
Don't buy it if:
- You prefer a warmer sound signature
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions
- You're on a budget
Bottom Line:
The Shure SRH840 is a great choice for mixing and mastering. They offer an accurate and detailed sound that will help you hear every nuance of your music. They also have excellent noise isolation, which makes them ideal for use in noisy environments. However, they can be a bit fatiguing for long listening sessions and are not as comfortable as some other headphones. If you need a headphone for noise isolation and you're willing to pay a premium for quality, then the SRH840 is a great option. If you prefer a warmer sound signature or you need a headphone for long listening sessions, then you might want to consider another option.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO
Open-back headphones known for their bright and detailed sound. They are a popular choice for mixing and mastering due to their accurate frequency response and wide soundstage.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 35 kHz
- Impedance: 250 ohms
- Sensitivity: 96 dB SPL
- Weight: 250 grams
Reasons to buy:
- Bright and detailed sound
- Wide soundstage
- Durable build quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit harsh in the treble
- Not as isolating as closed-back headphones
- Relatively high impedance
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You want a headphone with a bright and detailed sound
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions
- You don't mind a bit of background noise
Don't buy it if:
- You need a headphone for noise isolation
- You prefer a warmer sound signature
- You have a low-powered audio source
Bottom Line:
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is a great choice for mixing and mastering. They offer a bright and detailed sound that will help you hear every nuance of your music. They also have a wide soundstage, which is great for imaging. However, they are not as isolating as closed-back headphones and can be a bit harsh in the treble. If you're looking for a headphone with a bright sound and you don't mind a bit of background noise, then the DT 990 PRO is a great option. If you need a headphone for noise isolation or you prefer a warmer sound signature, then you might want to consider another option.
Sennheiser HD 598
Open-back headphones known for their comfortable fit and balanced sound. They are a popular choice for mixing and mastering due to their accurate frequency response and wide soundstage.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 12 Hz - 22 kHz
- Impedance: 50 ohms
- Sensitivity: 106 dB SPL
- Weight: 250 grams
Reasons to buy:
- Comfortable fit
- Balanced sound
- Relatively affordable price
Reasons to avoid:
- Not as detailed as some other open-back headphones
- Not as isolating as closed-back headphones
- Not as wide soundstage as some other open-back headphones
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You want a headphone with a comfortable fit
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions
- You're on a budget
Don't buy it if:
- You need a headphone for noise isolation
- You prefer a warmer sound signature
- You want a headphone with a very wide soundstage
Bottom Line:
The Sennheiser HD 598 is a great choice for mixing and mastering. They offer a comfortable fit and a balanced sound that will help you hear every nuance of your music. They are also relatively affordable. However, they are not as detailed as some other open-back headphones and are not as isolating as closed-back headphones. If you're looking for a comfortable headphone with a balanced sound and you're on a budget, then the HD 598 is a great option. If you need a headphone for noise isolation or you prefer a more detailed sound signature, then you might want to consider another option.
Focal Spirit Professional
Closed-back headphones known for their accurate and detailed sound. They are a popular choice for mixing and mastering due to their neutral sound signature and excellent isolation.
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Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 22 kHz
- Impedance: 80 ohms
- Sensitivity: 101 dB SPL
- Weight: 360 grams
Reasons to buy:
- Accurate and detailed sound
- Excellent noise isolation
- Durable build quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit fatiguing for long listening sessions
- Not as comfortable as some other headphones
- Relatively high price
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You need a headphone for noise isolation
- You want a headphone with a neutral sound signature
- You're willing to pay a premium for quality
Don't buy it if:
- You prefer a warmer sound signature
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions
- You're on a budget
Bottom Line:
The Focal Spirit Professional is a great choice for mixing and mastering. They offer an accurate and detailed sound that will help you hear every nuance of your music. They also have excellent noise isolation, which makes them ideal for use in noisy environments. However, they can be a bit fatiguing for long listening sessions and are not as comfortable as some other headphones. If you need a headphone for noise isolation and you're willing to pay a premium for quality, then the Spirit Professional is a great option. If you prefer a warmer sound signature or you need a headphone for long listening sessions, then you might want to consider another option.
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
Closed-back headphones known for their affordable price and balanced sound. They are a popular choice for mixing and mastering due to their accurate frequency response and good isolation.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 15 Hz - 24 kHz
- Impedance: 35 ohms
- Sensitivity: 96 dB SPL
- Weight: 240 grams
Reasons to buy:
- Affordable price
- Balanced sound
- Good noise isolation
Reasons to avoid:
- Not as detailed as some other headphones
- Not as comfortable as some other headphones
- Not as wide soundstage as some other headphones
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You're on a budget
- You need a headphone with a balanced sound
- You need a headphone for noise isolation
Don't buy it if:
- You prefer a warmer sound signature
- You need a headphone with a wide soundstage
- You want a headphone with a very detailed sound
Bottom Line:
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is a great choice for mixing and mastering on a budget. They offer a balanced sound that will help you hear every nuance of your music. They also have good noise isolation, which makes them ideal for use in noisy environments. However, they are not as detailed as some other headphones and are not as comfortable as some other headphones. If you're on a budget and you need a headphone with a balanced sound and good noise isolation, then the ATH-M40x is a great option. If you prefer a warmer sound signature or you need a headphone with a wider soundstage, then you might want to consider another option.
AKG K712 PRO
Open-back headphones known for their wide soundstage and natural sound signature. They are a popular choice for mixing and mastering due to their accurate and detailed sound.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 39.8 kHz
- Impedance: 62 ohms
- Sensitivity: 105 dB SPL
- Weight: 260 grams
Reasons to buy:
- Wide soundstage
- Natural and detailed sound
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit thin in the bass
- Not as isolating as closed-back headphones
- Relatively high price
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You want a headphone with a wide soundstage
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions
- You prefer a natural and detailed sound
Don't buy it if:
- You need a headphone for noise isolation
- You prefer a warmer sound signature
- You have a low-powered audio source
Bottom Line:
The AKG K712 PRO is a great choice for mixing and mastering. They offer a wide soundstage and a natural and detailed sound that will help you hear every nuance of your music. They are also comfortable to wear for long periods of time. However, they are not as isolating as closed-back headphones and can be a bit thin in the bass. If you're looking for a headphone with a wide soundstage and you prefer a natural and detailed sound, then the K712 PRO is a great option. If you need a headphone for noise isolation or you prefer a warmer sound signature, then you might want to consider another option.
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO
Open-back headphones known for their detailed and accurate sound. They are a popular choice for mixing and mastering due to their neutral sound signature and wide soundstage.
Explore further with 16 Best Headphones for College Students: Study and Chill
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 40 kHz
- Impedance: 250 ohms
- Sensitivity: 96 dB SPL
- Weight: 360 grams
Reasons to buy:
- Detailed and accurate sound
- Wide soundstage
- Durable build quality
Reasons to avoid:
- Can be a bit bright in the treble
- Not as isolating as closed-back headphones
- Relatively high impedance
What you need to know:
Buy it if
- You want a headphone with a detailed and accurate sound
- You need a headphone for long listening sessions
- You don't mind a bit of background noise
Don't buy it if:
- You need a headphone for noise isolation
- You prefer a warmer sound signature
- You have a low-powered audio source
Bottom Line:
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO is a great choice for mixing and mastering. They offer a detailed and accurate sound that will help you hear every nuance of your music. They also have a wide soundstage, which is great for imaging. However, they are not as isolating as closed-back headphones and can be a bit bright in the treble. If you're looking for a headphone with a detailed sound and you don't mind a bit of background noise, then the DT 1990 PRO is a great option. If you need a headphone for noise isolation or you prefer a warmer sound signature, then you might want to consider another option.
HiFiMan HE560
A planar magnetic headphone known for its detailed and accurate sound reproduction.
Specifications :
- Frequency response: 10Hz - 50kHz
- Impedance: 30 ohms
- Sensitivity: 103dB
- Driver size: 50mm
Reasons to buy :
- Excellent detail retrieval
- Wide soundstage
- Comfortable fit
Reasons to avoid :
- Can be fragile
- Relatively expensive
- Requires a powerful amp for optimal performance
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're looking for a headphone with incredible detail and accuracy
- You have a powerful amp to drive them
- You prioritize comfort and fit
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You don't have a powerful amp
- You need a headphone that's extremely portable
Bottom Line:
The HiFiMan HE560 is a great choice for professional audio engineers who need a headphone that can reproduce music with exceptional clarity and accuracy. It's capable of revealing even the subtlest nuances in recordings, making it ideal for mixing and mastering. The wide soundstage and comfortable fit are also big pluses. However, its fragility, high price, and need for a powerful amp can be drawbacks for some users.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
A high-end open-back headphone known for its exceptional clarity and spacious soundstage.
Specifications :
- Frequency response: 6Hz - 46.000 Hz
- Impedance: 300 ohms
- Sensitivity: 106dB
- Driver size: 56mm
Reasons to buy :
- Incredibly transparent and detailed sound
- Wide and expansive soundstage
- Comfortable and well-built
Reasons to avoid :
- Expensive
- Requires a powerful amp for optimal performance
- Not very portable
What you need to know :
Buy it if:
- You're looking for the absolute best in terms of sound quality
- You have a powerful amp to drive them
- You prioritize comfort and build quality
Don't buy it if:
- You're on a tight budget
- You don't have a powerful amp
- You need a headphone that's extremely portable
Bottom Line:
The Sennheiser HD 800 S is a top-tier headphone for those who demand the very best in sound quality. It's a true reference-grade headphone that can reveal even the most subtle details in recordings. Its wide and expansive soundstage makes it ideal for mixing and mastering. However, its high price, need for a powerful amp, and lack of portability can be limiting factors for some users.
Choosing the right headphones for mixing can be a daunting task. There are so many options out there, each with its own unique strengths and weaknesses. Ultimately, the best headphones for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. However, by considering the factors discussed in this article, you can narrow down your choices and find a pair that will help you create professional-quality mixes.
Remember, a good pair of headphones is an investment in your craft. They are an essential tool for any serious audio engineer or producer. Whether you are working on music, podcasts, or video, investing in a high-quality pair of headphones will help you achieve a better sound.
We hope this guide has helped you find the perfect headphones for your mixing needs. If you have any further questions, please feel free to leave a comment below. Happy mixing!
And finally, don't be afraid to experiment with different headphones. You may be surprised at what you discover.
Omar 
Yasmin 
Hassan