Types of monitor headphones
Monitor, professional, studio – these are the names of headphones designed for recording vocals and mixing. They are also used for beatmaking (from the English “beat” - ri - manufacturer), mastering.
A necessary tool for radio presenters, sound engineers, and artists. They help check the sound quality, detect distortion, noise, and clicks.
Professional products are divided into two large groups (location relative to the ear):
- Full size.
- Invoices.
Full size
The second name is circum-aura (from English - around the ear). Completely cover the auricle. They isolate sound from external vibrations, achieving good sound insulation. Used in recording studios.
There are three varieties: closed, open, semi-open.
Closed
They are characterized by a bowl that is completely closed on the outside and has better sound insulation. Used when recording vocal parts. The downside is ear fatigue after 1-1.5 hours of work.
Open
The difference is the perforated outer sides of the bowls, capturing sounds from the outside. The downside is that the music will be heard by others. Pros: quality, reliability of the recorded material, reproduction of low frequencies. It is recommended to listen to the material. Not suitable for recording vocals.
Half open
The best option for beginners. Combines properties of open and closed types.
Invoices
Simply apply to the surface of the ears. There is no good insulation, unreliable sound if the product is not worn correctly.
They are distinguished by their light weight, size, and low cost.
Top 5 over-ear headphones for rock
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
A relatively inexpensive model that will appeal to every rock fan. The product has good sound and is light weight. Therefore, they are practically not felt on the head. The cable connection is made on one side only. The range of reproduced frequencies is 8-25000 Hz, which is a positive result. Another advantage of this option is the impedance, which is 64 ohms.
Maximum power 500 mW. The advantage of the design is that it has a long cable, the maximum length reaches 3 meters, which makes it possible to use the product for various purposes. The appearance is beautiful, the ergonomics are at the highest level. Even when listening at maximum volume, there are no third-party wheezes here. The kit includes a 6.35 mm adapter.
The average cost is 6,405 rubles.
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
Advantages:
- High-quality sound;
- A convenient adapter is included;
- Spiral wire that stretches easily;
- Durable performance;
- Impedance;
- Maximum ergonomics;
- They don't fly off.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
A reliable model with the best fit, which is recommended for most music lovers. The sound turns out great, and if you adjust the equalizer to suit you, you can achieve perfect and even sound. The build quality will amaze you from the first unboxing. All parts are strong and reliable. The kit includes a warranty, an additional adapter, etc. The ear pads are made of wear-resistant material. The only thing you should know is that if you plan to play with such headphones, then it is better to take a high-quality amplifier.
But such a product has one drawback - poor bass sound. It is important to immediately understand that if a user buys a model to play percussion instruments or listen to drums, it is better to look for another option.
The average price is 10,990 rubles.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Advantages:
- Maximum comfort, there is a lining between the ear and the speaker;
- Attractive appearance;
- Efficiency;
- Good sound;
- Equipment;
- Build quality;
- Detailed sound.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Philips SHP2700
Wired headphones that are suitable for both music lovers and fans of a specific genre. The reproduced frequency range is 18-28000 Hz, which is the optimal solution. The product feature is maximum power – 1500 mW. The weight of the product is 265 grams. Type of acoustic design – open. The cable is connected on one side. Membrane diameter – 4 cm.
For the money, these headphones are considered one of the best. A person receives the whole range of emotions. The bass is swinging and natural, so the percussion instruments sound great. Fabric ear pads provide a soft fit and do not wear out from frequent use. Undoubtedly, over time this part may deteriorate, but the problem will not happen as quickly as with standard models.
Sold at a price: from 1,100 rubles.
Philips SHP2700
Advantages:
- Value for money;
- Reliability;
- Long service life;
- Good sound;
- Convenient transportation.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Creative Aurvana Live!
Attractive design and good sound are the main advantages of this option. The seating position is comfortable. Of course, the first time will compress a little, but after a couple of days this disadvantage will disappear. The outer part is made of durable plastic, and there are also special inserts for comfortable wearing. When running on a track or street, there is no need to worry about the device falling off.
Even if a person plays a song from a weak source, the headphones will try to survive 100% of this and partially cope with the task. The only downside is that it will be hot for your ears to be inside, especially at room temperature. If you are not particularly picky about music, you should pay attention to this performance. The user will not regret the money spent.
The average cost is 4,990 rubles.
Creative Aurvana Live!
Advantages:
- Good sound;
- Attractive appearance;
- Convenient design;
- Assembly at a professional level;
- Plastic insert;
- Softness;
- Suitable for long listening sessions.
Flaws:
- The lows are elevated;
- Your ears may feel hot.
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm)
The advantage of this option is that the device is suitable for wearing in both winter and summer. In the first case, the product will warm the ears, and in the second it will provide good air circulation. Another feature is velor ear pads; if a person puts them on once, he will no longer want to wear leather products. Yes, the appearance of such a product is rather unremarkable and even small, but this does not interfere with its convenience.
The design is thought out to the smallest detail, there are no creaks, they slide apart easily. However, the external part is not the most important thing in this model, since most people only evaluate the sound, which here is not dry, but velvety. Everything is smooth, smooth and perfect. The bass range is a separate issue; there is no sound that is familiar to many, only naturalness. Therefore, if a person is looking for a good option, it is recommended to try Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm).
The average cost is 15,000 rubles.
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm)
Advantages:
- Attractive appearance;
- High quality manufacturing;
- Good sound for the entire period of use;
- Maximum comfort;
- Comfortable fit;
- Long wire;
- Better bass sound;
- Velvety.
Flaws:
- Not found.
Technical specifications
The main technical parameters that must be taken into account when choosing:
- Frequency range - the sound quality depends, measured in Hz, professional models have a value from 5 to 125,000 Hz.
- Sensitivity - sound volume, measured in decibels (dB), the optimal value is above 90-100 dB.
- Impedance (from the Latin “impedio” - to impede) is total electrical resistance, measured in ohms (Ohms), professional models have values of more than 32 Ohms.
- The level of distortion is measured as a percentage (%), monitor types - less than 1%.
- Weight – depends on the materials used, design, comfortable and lightweight shape – comfortable work.
- Cord – stationary, removable, length, replaceable.
Tips for choosing
Customer reviews and expert advice will help you avoid mistakes when buying professional headphones:
- choose a type depending on the type of activity (recording, listening, mixing);
- familiarize yourself with the main technical parameters;
- find out about the connection - cable (fixed, removable), wireless (radio communication, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth), battery life;
- study everything about the manufacturer, the availability of a warranty period;
- decide on the price category;
- fitting, listening to the purchased model.
Rating of the best studio headphones for mixing and mastering for 2021
The review of popular models was compiled based on reviews from visitors, buyers of online stores, and the Yandex Market site.
The cheapest models
5th place AKG K 271 MK II
Price - 5,990 rubles.
Product of the famous brand AKG (Austria).
Type – closed, full-size. The fastening is a headband consisting of a wide ribbon with the company logo and two arched wires. Application – work in the studio, on stage.
Circum-Aural ear pads are made of synthetic material. XXL Varimotion technology is used - diaphragm manufacturing.
The mute button is located on the left earphone.
Feature - the (Mute) button automatically turns off the sound after removal (the tension of the tape is weakened).
Options:
- Frequencies: 16-28.000 Hz.
- Impedance: 55 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 91 dB/mW.
- Maximum power: 200 mW.
- Harmonic distortion: 0.3%.
- One-way cable connection.
- Connector – gold-plated mini jack 3.5 mm.
- Two cables (straight - 3, twisted - 5).
- The cord material is oxygen-free copper.
- Weight – 240 g.
Connection via detachable cable, straight connector. It is possible to connect a mini-XLR connector.
Equipment: adapter 6.3, two cables (3 m, 5 m), replaceable ear pads (velor, leatherette).
AKG K 271 MK II
Advantages:
- good sound;
- all frequencies sound smooth;
- detachable cord;
- high noise insulation at maximum volume;
- automatic mute after removal;
- the presence of replaceable nozzles, two cords.
Flaws:
- plastic case;
- ear pad material;
- bulky design.
4th place Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
Cost: 3,990-5,226 rubles.
Manufacturer: Audio-Technica (Japan).
Type - closed, overhead. Suitable for beginners, professionals and amateurs.
Material – high-quality plastic (case), artificial leather.
Options:
- Frequencies: 15-20.000 Hz.
- Impedance: 47 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 96 dB/mW.
- Maximum power: 700 mW.
- The length of the permanent cord is 3 m.
- Weight: 190 g.
- Membrane diameter: 40 mm.
- Connector: mini jack 3.5.
The difference is a one-sided non-removable wire. There is a 6.3 adapter included. Warranty – 12 months.
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
Advantages:
- appearance;
- excellent sound insulation;
- good sound;
- lungs;
- nice material;
- price.
Flaws:
- you need a sound card;
- no volume control;
- Thin ear pads put pressure on your ears.
3rd place AKG K 240 Studio
Price: 5.681-6.875 rubles.
Manufacturer: AKG (Austria). Attached with a headband.
Type – full-size, dynamic, semi-open.
Frame – two metal arcs, flat headband. There is an automatic position adjustment mechanism.
The cable unfastens when you press the tab.
The ear pads are easily removed and can be replaced. Material: artificial leather.
Characteristics:
- Frequencies: 15-25.000 Hz.
- Impedance: 55 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 101 dB.
- Maximum power: 200 mW.
- Harmonic distortion: 0.3%.
- The cable is single-sided, detachable.
- Cord length – 3 m.
- Gold-plated mini jack 3.5 mm.
- Weight: 240 g.
Packaging – cardboard box. Set – adapter 6.3. Warranty – 12 months.
AKG K 240 Studio
Advantages:
- high sound quality;
- good assembly;
- comfortable shape;
- automatic adjustment of the temple;
- durable, soft cord.
Flaws:
- Using it for several hours is uncomfortable.
2nd place Audio-Technica ATH-M30x
Price: 3,990-5,050 rubles.
Product of the famous company Audio-Technica (Japan).
Type – full-size, dynamic, closed.
It features a metal headband and a folding design (large rotation angle). Case material – plastic. The ear pads are eco-leather and have a memory effect. The cable has a dense braid and a gold-plated threaded plug.
Peculiarities:
- Frequencies: 15-22.000 Hz.
- Impedance: 47 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 96 dB/mW.
- Power: 1300 mW.
- Weight: 220 g.
- Membrane diameter: 40 mm.
- Single-sided cord 3 m.
- Foldable design.
- Connector: mini jack 3.5.
- Neodymium magnets.
Set: cardboard box, case (soft fabric), spare cable, jack/mini-jack adapter.
Suitable for monitoring with clean frequencies without strong bass.
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x
Advantages:
- stylish design;
- high-quality sound;
- convenient design;
- spare screws, adapters;
- fabric cover (storage, transportation).
Flaws:
- after 1-1.5 hours, pressure is felt on the ears.
1st place Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
Cost: 6,081-8,990 rubles.
Product of the famous Sennheiser brand (Germany).
Type – full-size, dynamic, closed.
Design features: sliding headband (vertical arc), folding bowls. There is a twisted cord.
Characteristics:
- Frequencies: 8-25.000 Hz.
- Impedance: 64 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 102 dB.
- Maximum power: 500 mW.
- Distortion: 0.1%.
- Weight: 220 g.
- Single-sided twisted cord (1 m, stretches up to 3 m).
- Mini jack 3.5 connector.
- Foldable design.
Packaging – cardboard box. Set – adapter 6.3. Warranty – 24 months.
Sennheiser HD 280 Pr
Advantages:
- good sound;
- volume does not exceed 50%;
- complete isolation from external noise;
- quality of materials;
- fold up;
- adapter included;
- value for money.
Flaws:
- At the beginning of use, the cable is difficult to stretch.
Average price category
5th place Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X
Price: 11,990 rubles.
Manufacturer: Audio-Technica (Japan).
Type – full-size, dynamic, open.
The original design of the headband: two metal arcs in a plastic rim, two plates with a soft inner side.
The material of the fasteners and bowls is plastic. The outer side of the bowls is perforated aluminum.
The ear pads are covered with velor fabric.
Peculiarities:
- Frequencies: 5-30.000 Hz.
- Resistance: 48 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW.
- Power: 500 mW.
- Weight: 235 g.
- Membrane diameter: 53 mm.
- Single-sided cable: 3 m.
- Connector: mini jack 3.5.
Set: cardboard box with transparent front panel, adapter 6.3. Warranty – 12 months.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X
Advantages:
- optimal values of frequencies, resistance, sensitivity;
- good sound;
- comfortable fit on the head;
- no discomfort when listening for a long time;
- suitable for any source;
- price.
Flaws:
- non-removable cord;
- open type - poor sound insulation;
- no storage case.
4th place AKG K 371
Price: 8,990-10,512 rubles.
Product of the Austrian brand AKG. New for 2021.
Type – full-size, dynamic, closed. It features a folding design and oval-shaped bowls made of leatherette.
Characteristics:
- Frequencies: 5-40.000 Hz.
- Resistance: 32 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 114 dB.
- Weight: 255 g.
- Membrane diameter: 50 mm.
- Titanium coating of the emitter.
- Foldable design.
- Single-sided detachable cable.
- Three cords: twisted 3 m, two straight (1,2, 3 m).
- Mini jack 3.5 connector.
Recommended for working with sound, monitoring, listening. Contents: 6.3 adapter, case, three cords.
AKG K 371
Advantages:
- comfortable;
- high-quality assembly;
- oval bowl shape;
- clear sound;
- can be used with an amplifier;
- fold up;
- convenient to store and carry in a bag;
- three cords of different lengths and designs.
Flaws:
- additional amplifier – bass depth;
- It is inconvenient to replace the wire during operation.
3rd place Technics RP-DJ1215
Cost: 13,990 rubles.
Product of the Japanese brand Technics (Panasonic Corporation).
Type – overhead, dynamic. They feature a wide, soft headband, an adjustable headband, and tight-fitting cups. Quick, easy to fold.
Properties:
- Frequency range: 5-30.000 Hz.
- Impedance: 32 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 106 dB/mW.
- Maximum power: 1500 mW.
- Weight: 230 g.
- Membrane diameter: 41 mm.
- Foldable design.
- Single-sided twisted cord, gold-plated connectors (3 m).
- Mini jack 3.5 connector.
- Neodymium magnets.
Recommended for use by amateurs and professionals (DJs).
Packaging – cardboard box. There is a storage case and a 6.3 adapter. Manufacturer's warranty – 1 year.
Technics RP-DJ1215
Advantages:
- good sound;
- laconic design;
- lungs;
- comfortable;
- fold up;
- stored and transported in a special case;
- stylish twisted wire.
Flaws:
- plastic case;
- press on the ears.
2nd place Beyerdynamic DT 990 (600 Ohm)
Cost: 15,990 – 16,990 rubles.
Product of the German brand Beyerdynamic.
Type – full-size, dynamic, open.
They are distinguished by a wide, flexible arch, velor ear pads, silver details (grid panel on the outer side of the bowls, connections).
Characteristics:
- Frequencies: 5-35.000 Hz.
- Impedance: 600 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 96 dB.
- Maximum power: 100 mW.
- Harmonic distortion: 0.2%.
- Weight: 250 g.
- Fixed cable 3 m, gold-plated contacts.
- Contact pressure 2.8 N.
- Mini jack 3.5 connector.
Set: adapter 6.3, case made of high-quality artificial leather with a zipper.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 (600 Ohm)
Advantages:
- comfortable on the head;
- well regulated;
- soft bowls;
- high-quality sound;
- convenient to store;
- no extra pressure.
Flaws:
- need an amplifier;
- recordings are of poor quality - all imperfections can be heard.
1st place YAMAHA HPH-MT7
Price: 12,700-12,990 rubles.
Manufacturer - brand: YAMAHA (Japan).
Type – full-size, dynamic, closed.
Two colors of headphones - silver, black. Case material – ABS plastic. Bowls – cast aluminum. There is height adjustment, three-dimensional fastening of bowls. A special feature is the rotation of the bowls (monitoring with one ear).
Ear pad material: synthetic leather, soft seal.
Peculiarities:
- Frequencies: 5-25.000 Hz.
- Resistance: 49 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 99 dB/mW.
- Maximum power: 1600 mW.
- Weight with cable – 360 g.
- Membrane diameter: 40 mm.
- One 3 m cord, gold plated contacts.
- Mini jack 3.5 connector.
Set: case, adapter 6.3.
YAMAHA HPH-MT7
Advantages:
- sound quality;
- comfortable shape;
- you can listen with one ear;
- height adjustment;
- quality materials;
- long wire.
Flaws:
- not identified.
The most expensive models
5th place Sony MDR-Z7M2
Price: 54,990-64,990 rubles.
Product of the famous brand Sony (Japan).
Type – full-size, dynamic, closed.
Classic shape: wide arch, covered with leather, large bowls.
Differences: 2 times larger neodymium magnet, diaphragm made of LCD film, aluminum, rubber grille (Fibonacci pattern).
Peculiarities:
- Frequencies: 4-100.000 Hz.
- Impedance: 56 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 98 dB/mW.
- Weight: 340 g.
- Membrane diameter: 70 mm.
- The cable is double-sided, removable, gold-plated contacts.
- Neodymium magnets.
- Cord – oxygen-free copper, silver plating.
The material of the ear pads is urethane foam, covered with a three-dimensional layer of artificial leather.
The set contains 2 wires: 3 meters (gold-plated, mini plug), 1.2 meters (L-shaped, standard plug).
Suitable for professionals and music lovers.
Sony MDR-Z7M2
Advantages:
- surround sound (HD speakers);
- sound quality;
- soft sound of high frequencies;
- comfortable, soft pads;
- soundproofing;
- presence of different wires.
Flaws:
- not identified.
4th place Shure SRH1540
Cost: 34,000-44,700 rubles.
Manufacturer: Shure brand (USA).
Type – full-size, dynamic, closed.
The shackle is adjustable and consists of 2 sections (aluminum alloy). Two soft elongated strips on the inside of the headband are conveniently located in the center. Carbon cups, replaceable suede Alcantara ear pads – lightness and reliability.
Characteristics:
- Frequency range: 5-25.000 Hz.
- Impedance: 46 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 99 dB/mW.
- Maximum power: 1000 mW.
- External noise isolation: 15 dB.
- Weight: 286 g.
- Membrane diameter: 40 mm.
- Two-way connection.
- Cable: 1.83 m detachable, with gold-plated contacts.
- Mini jack 3.5 mm connector.
- Neodymium magnets.
Wire material: oxygen-free copper.
Set: gold-plated 6.3 mm adapter, hard storage case, replacement Alcantara ear pads, two wires.
Warranty – 12 months.
Shure SRH1540
Advantages:
- excellent smooth sound in all genres;
- soundproofing;
- comfortable fit;
- suede overlays;
- lungs;
- quality materials;
- excellent assembly;
- good equipment.
Flaws:
- There is not enough cord for 1.2 m.
3rd place Sennheiser HD 820
Price: 159,900 rubles.
The manufacturer is the famous German company Sennheiser.
Type – full-size, dynamic, closed.
They feature a signature design: the outer speaker covers are made of glass. Product materials: high-quality plastic, metal, leather. The headband is a black wide arc, soft internal padding. The ear pads are made by hand, from high-quality artificial leather and microfiber.
Options:
- Frequency range: 6-48.000 Hz.
- Impedance: 300 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 103 dB.
- Weight: 360 g.
- Double-sided, detachable 3 m cable.
- Connector jack 6.3 mm, XLR.
Packaging – large cardboard box, photo of the product.
Contents: black wooden box (company logo on top), three wires (unbalanced - 6.3 mm connector, balanced - Pentaconn 4.4 mm, balanced - XLR-4 connector). Additionally - branded flash drive (instructions (PDF), frequency response), microfiber cloth, instructions.
Warranty – 24 months.
Sennheiser HD 820
Advantages:
- interesting design;
- high-quality sound;
- separation by instruments;
- there is detail;
- convenience of form;
- the pads do not press;
- large equipment;
- There is a wooden branded storage box.
Flaws:
- high price.
2nd place Pioneer SE-Master 1
Cost: 219,999 rubles.
The product is presented by Pioneer Corporation (Japan).
Type – full-size, dynamic, open.
The shape consists of: a duralumin bow (Super Duralumin), a wide suede strip, duralumin forks, a side-pressing system for the cups.
Depth adjustment – 14 steps.
The ear pads are filled with foam. They have an uneven shape: thickened at the back, tapering towards the front.
Properties:
- Frequencies: 5-85.000 Hz.
- Resistance: 45 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 94 dB.
- Maximum power: 1.500 mW.
- Weight: 460 g.
- Membrane diameter: 50 mm.
- Connector: jack 6.3 mm.
- Two-way connection.
- 3 m cable (gold-plated connectors, oxygen-free copper).
- Neodymium magnets.
Sold in a large box, decorated with soft fabric. Additionally - replaceable cable, arc.
Suitable for professional musicians and audiophiles.
Warranty – 12 months.
Pioneer SE-Master 1
Advantages:
- modern design;
- high-quality hand assembly;
- convenience of form;
- deep, detailed sound display;
- very comfortable for long-term use;
- There is an ear pressure adjustment
Flaws:
- high frequencies stand out;
- high price.
1st place Beyerdynamic Amiron Home
Price: 45.580-49.990 rubles.
Manufactured by Beyerdynamic (Germany).
Type – full-size, dynamic, open.
There are two color options for the material: black, purple.
They are distinguished by velor trim on the headband, ear pads, and aluminum mesh on the outer side of the bowls. Tesla branded emitters are used.
Properties:
- Frequencies: 5-40.000 Hz.
- Resistance: 250 Ohm.
- Sensitivity: 102 dB/mW.
- Distortion: 0.05%.
- Weight: 340 g.
- Two-way connection.
- Detachable cord 3 m, gold plated contacts.
- Mini jack 3.5 mm connector.
Set: 6.3 mm adapter, black oval hard case with company logo, instructions.
Warranty – 2 years.
Beyerdynamic Amiron Home
Advantages:
- clear, balanced sound;
- durable cable;
- tight fit;
- soft headband, pads;
- hard storage case.
Flaws:
- additionally purchase wires with a balanced connector.
Shure SRH1540 – beauty and balance
The first thing that attracts people in the design is the eye-catching cups on the outside, which are made of hydrocarbon fiber and look original in combination with aluminum fasteners. The self-adjusting headband of a lightweight design is lined with foam rubber covered with high-quality leatherette on the inside.
The replaceable soft Alcantara ear pads are easy to clean. The sound evokes positive emotions throughout all frequencies. The bass structure looks especially impeccable. The device is suitable for both portable devices and for connection via a 6.3 mm adapter.
Advantages:
- wired;
- closed;
- operating range 5 – 25000 Hz;
- speakers 40 mm;
- sensitivity 99 dB;
- 1.83 m double-sided detachable cable;
- standard 3.5 mm input;
- Neodymium magnets;
- adapter 6.3 mm;
- ear pads for changing - 2 pairs.
Flaws:
- weight 286 g;
- cost from 18,000 rub.
