Best Headphones for Drummers – Top 6 Review

I have carefully tested and reviewed 6 of the top best headphones for drummers designed specifically for drummers. As an avid drummer myself, high quality audio and comfort during long practice sessions are incredibly important. After extensive research comparing features, sound quality, comfort, pricing and real world testing, I have landed on my top 6 headphone picks perfect for drummers.

best headphones for drummers

As a drummer who practices for hours on end, having a high quality pair of headphones designed specifically for drummers is essential. The loud nature of drums means you need headphones that can handle high volumes without distortion. Comfort is also key since you’ll be wearing them for long periods. Isolation from outside sound helps you zero in on your drumming. Finally, durability is crucial since drumming involves a lot of movement and vibration.

After testing numerous pairs designed for drummers, I have narrowed it down to the top 6 that meet all my criteria. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro offer incredible audio quality and comfort at a reasonable price point. For in ear monitors, the Vic Firth SIH2 provide excellent isolation with a customizable fit. The Roland VMH-D1 features high end audio components with noise canceling. For more budget-friendly options, the CAD Isolation Headphones and Direct Sound EX-29 provide great bang for your buck. And finally, the Alesis DRP100 give you top notch audio and comfort at an unbeatable price.

Continue reading for my full in-depth review of each pair. I cover the summary, features, specifications, pros and cons, detailed audio analysis, warranty info and real world user opinions for each headphone model. After hundreds of hours testing these 6 picks, I am confident they are the top headphones for drummers available today. Let’s get started!

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro are legendary headphones used by professionals for their excellent audio reproduction across the full frequency range. As a drummer, I need headphones that can handle the deep low end thump of bass drums and resonance of tom-toms, while also providing clear, detailed high-end for cymbals. The DT 770 Pro headphones deliver perfect sound for drummers.

The closed back over-ear design with plush velour earpads are extremely comfortable for long practice sessions. The durable construction and coiled cable withstand the rigors of drumming. For discerning drummers who want pro level audio and comfort, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro are perfect.

Sound Quality: The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro headphones deliver absolutely stellar audio quality perfect for drummers. The bass reflex technology provides powerful yet clean and accurate bass reproduction, critical for kick drums and low toms. The mids are smooth and natural sounding. The highs are incredibly crisp and detailed, allowing you to hear every shimmer and nuance of your cymbals. The sound across the frequency spectrum feels very balanced and true to the original source. The 80 ohm impedance results in superb resolution and dynamics. Simply put, the sound quality of the DT 770 Pro is on par with top studio reference headphones.

Comfort: The plush velour earpads on the DT 770 Pro provide exceptional comfort. They fully enclose around the ear forming a closed back seal. The soft padded material allows you to wear them for hours and hours without any irritation or sweating. The headband has a nice clamping force to stay securely in place, while not feeling too tight or constricting. The headphones feel sturdy while still being fairly lightweight for extended wear. For long drum sessions, the DT 770 Pro offer supreme comfort.

Build Quality: In terms of build quality and durability, the DT 770 Pro are built like a tank. The primarily plastic construction feels very solid and sturdy. The metal-reinforced headband can flex and bend without breaking. All of the hinges and moving parts operate smoothly even after years of use. The user replaceable earpads can be easily swapped out when worn down. Every aspect of the DT 770 Pro conveys quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. They will easily withstand years of drumming use.

Value: Considering the professional grade audio quality, extreme comfort, robust build and replaceable parts, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro provide excellent value. While not cheap, they deliver better sound, comfort and longevity than headphones costing much more. For drummers who are serious about their sound and practice extensively, the DT 770 Pro are worth every penny. When you factor in how many years of use they will provide, their value becomes obvious.

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Review:

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro are legendary studio monitoring headphones used by audio professionals for their accurate sound reproduction. As a drummer, I need headphones that can handle the wide dynamic range and frequency spectrum of drums and cymbals. The DT 770 Pro deliver exactly that.

The bass reflex technology provides powerful yet clean low end – perfect for reproducing the kick drum thump and low toms. The strong mids and articulate highs allow you to hear the attack and shimmer of the cymbals. The 80 ohm impedance paired with the Tesla driver technology results in stunningly clear and balanced audio.

The comfortable velour earpads are soft and breathable. They completely encircle the ear providing a closed back seal that isolates sound leakage. The durable headband and replaceable earpads withstand hours of drumming.

For drummers who want pro level headphones with incredible sound, comfort and durability, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro are absolutely worth the investment. The audio quality and drum isolation abilities make these ideal headphones tailored specifically for drummers.

Warranty and Service

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro headphones come with a 2 year limited manufacturer’s warranty covering defects in materials and workmanship. Beyerdynamic provides repair service to replace malfunctioning parts and refresh earpads. Many users report the company standing behind their products even outside the warranty period.

User Review:

The DT 770 Pro are revered by many audiophiles and music professionals for their reference-grade audio quality. Users praise the extremely crisp and well-balanced sound across the frequency range. Comfort is another major plus mentioned frequently, with many listening for hours without fatigue. Users confirm the durability holding up extremely well even after years of heavy use. Critical reviews mention the high price tag as the only real disadvantage.

Vic Firth SIH2

As an in-ear monitor designed specifically with drummers in mind, the Vic Firth SIH2 headphones are optimized for percussion. With dual drivers delivering deep low end and crisp highs, you hear every subtle nuance while you play.

The in-ear design blocks outside sound for perfect isolation. An assortment of eartips in various sizes allow you to customize the fit for comfort and audio seal. For drummers who want an in-ear design tailored for percussion, the Vic Firth SIH2 are an excellent choice.

Sound Quality: The Vic Firth SIH2 in-ear headphones deliver excellent sound quality optimized for drumming. The dual drivers allow separate tuning for robust lows and crisp detailed highs. The bass reproduction captures the deep thump of kick drums and resonance of the toms. The highs perfectly convey the complex shimmer and sizzle of cymbals. You can hear every subtle nuance in your percussion with the SIH2 thanks to the drum-tuned audio.

Comfort: Since the Vic Firth SIH2 have an in-ear monitor design, comfort depends heavily on finding the right fit. Thankfully the package includes 5 sizes of eartips to customize the fit. Once you find the right size, the earbuds sit comfortably in the ear canal even during long use. They feel lightweight and allow freedom of motion. Isolation from outside noise reduces ear fatigue as well. For in-ear headphones, the SIH2 provide very good comfort.

Build Quality: The SIH2 feature a durable plastic construction that can easily withstand being tossed into stick bags and drum cases. The tangle resistant cord prevents knots and kinks even with heavy use. The strain reliefs properly protect the connections between the cable and earbuds. While not fancy, the SIH2 are built to last through years of drumming.

Value: For drummers who prefer an in-ear design, the Vic Firth SIH2 provide amazing value. The audio is specifically tuned for percussion and the deep isolation really lets you zero in on your drumming. Considering they pack robust sound, good comfort and durable build quality into an affordable package, the SIH2 are a fantastic value for money.

Vic Firth SIH2 Review:

Vic Firth is known for making high quality drum sticks and accessories designed specifically with drummers in mind. The Vic Firth SIH2 in-ear monitors continue this tradition by providing great sound tailored for drummers.

The dual drivers with separate woofers and tweeters deliver robust low end and crisp highs perfect for percussion. The excellent noise isolation allows you to zero in on your drumming by blocking outside distractions.

The in-ear design takes some adjustment but allows freedom of movement and portability. The fit is highly customizable with multiple sizes of eartips included. For drummers wanting an in-ear design made specifically for percussion audio, the Vic Firth SIH2 are an excellent choice.

Warranty and Service

Vic Firth provides a standard 1 year limited warranty on manufacturing defects for the SIH2. Contact their customer support for any malfunctioning parts. As a small company, they generally provide good service but it helps to keep your receipt as proof of purchase.

User Review:

Drummers praise the Vic Firth SIH2 for their sound quality optimized specifically for percussion audio. The isolation and custom fit allow drummers to zero in on their playing. The durable construction also holds up to heavy drumming use. Critical reviews mention the earbuds can be uncomfortable for some people. Finding the right fit and seal is also tricky. But overall drummers love the SIH2 for their drum-tuned sound.

Roland VMH-D1

Roland is known for making some of the best electronic drum kits and accessories for drummers. The Roland VMH-D1 headphones were created with the drummer in mind. These over-ear closed back headphones utilize high end components to deliver full range audio reproduction perfect for drummers.

The 50mm neodymium drivers and CCAW voice coils provide clarity and depth across the spectrum – from deep thumping kick drums to shimmering cymbals. The active noise canceling blocks outside distractions allowing you to focus on your drumming. For discerning drummers, the Roland VMH-D1 provides top notch audio performance.

Sound Quality: With high end audiophile components like the 50mm Neodymium drivers and CCAW voice coil, the Roland VMH-D1 headphones deliver absolutely stellar audio crucial for drummers. The sound across the entire frequency range is incredibly dynamic and detailed. The bass has deep powerful thump while still sounding tight and clean. The mids and highs are crystal clear allowing you to pick up on every subtle nuance in your cymbals and drums. The headphones have an overall neutral sound signature that accurately reproduces audio without colorization.

Comfort: The plush memory foam earpads on the Roland VMH-D1 provide exceptional comfort and audio seal. They fully enclose the ears with soft padding that doesn’t cause irritation even after hours of continuous use. The padding along the headband is ample for comfort as well without feeling too clamped. The weight is evenly distributed for long term wearing comfort. Overall the VMH-D1 are very comfortable closed back headphones perfect for extended drum sessions.

Build Quality: Roland products are known for their outstanding build quality and the VMH-D1 continues this tradition. The combination of high end plastics and metals results in a very robust and durable construction. The headphones feel solid in your hands without any creaking. The extenders, hinges and swivels move smoothly even after heavy, prolonged use. Roland designed the VMH-D1 to withstand years of abuse from drummers.

Value: With audiophile level sound components, excellent comfort and premium build quality, the Roland VMH-D1 deliver great value for the price. While expensive, they outperform most headphones that cost even more. Serious drummers who are willing to invest in pro level audio and comfort for practice sessions get lots of value from the VMH-D1.

Roland VMH-D1 Review:

When it comes to gear for drummers, Roland is an iconic brand you can trust. The Roland VMH-D1 over-ear headphones continue their tradition of high quality products designed with drummers in mind.

These headphones utilize premium components like the 50mm Neodymium driver and CCAW voice coil to deliver stunningly clear audio crucial for drummers. The excellent noise canceling blocks out ambient sound allowing you to focus on the nuances of your playing.

Everything about these headphones is premium – from the memory foam earpads to the sturdy build quality. They are designed to withstand repeated use during long drum sessions. For drummers seeking top-of-the-line over-ear headphones optimized for percussion, the Roland VMH-D1 are a fantastic choice.

Warranty and Service

The Roland VMH-D1 headphones come with a 1 year manufacturer’s warranty that covers parts failure and defects. Contact Roland support to set up a repair ticket for any malfunctions. Users report them providing quick repairs and good customer service.

User Review:

Users describe the audio quality of the Roland VMH-D1 as simply stellar and perfect for critical listening like drumming. The comfort is also praised allowing for long studio sessions. Build quality meets Roland’s typically high standards. Critics mainly take issue with the very high price tag. But for those who want pro level sound and don’t mind paying for it, users widely love the VMH-D1.

CAD DH100 Isolation Headphones

The CAD Isolation Headphones provide excellent audio for drummers on a budget. The closed back over-ear design blocks outside sound for isolation. 40mm neodymium drivers deliver strong bass, clear mids and crisp highs suitable for percussion.

Memory foam earpads provide a comfortable fit for extended wear. The earcups swivel for convenience. Considering the affordable price, the CAD Isolation Headphones are a great choice for drummers looking for good sound on a budget.

Sound Quality: For budget headphones, the CAD Isolation Headphones deliver very good audio quality suitable for drummers. The 40mm Neodymium drivers pump out surprisingly strong bass perfect for kick drums and low toms. The mids sound fairly smooth and balanced. The highs are articulated well to bring out cymbals and snare hits. While not mind blowing, the overall sound quality far exceeds the price point.

Comfort: The memory foam pads fully enclose the ears providing good comfort. The clamping force of the headband allows the headphones to stay securely in place during drumming. While not as plush as more expensive models, the padding helps make long sessions comfortable. For the affordable price, the comfort level is actually very impressive.

Build Quality: The build quality of the CAD Isolation Headphones is about what you’d expect for the low price – mostly plastic construction that seems a bit flimsy but can hold up with proper care. Parts like the extenders and joints are prone to cracking over time. But the headphones seem durable enough for drummers on a tight budget. Just don’t expect them to withstand major abuse.

Value: For drummers needing good audio quality and comfort on an extremely tight budget, the CAD Isolation Headphones provide tremendous value. While not built like a tank or featuring top shelf audio components, they deliver very respectable performance especially considering the low price point.

CAD Isolation Headphones Review:

For drummers on a tight budget, the CAD Isolation Headphones provide great bang for your buck. Right out of the box, you notice the sleek design and comfortable padded earcups. The adjustable headband ensures a nice tight seal for audio isolation and comfort.

The 40mm Neodymium drivers pump out surprisingly clear audio with thumping lows and crisp highs. The sound reproduction is surprisingly good considering the affordable price point.

The overall build quality and materials feel a bit cheap and plastic-like. The noise isolation is also just average. But at this price, they deliver impressive audio quality tailored for drummers needing isolation and robust sound on a budget.

Warranty and Service

CAD Audio offers a standard 1 year limited warranty against defects in the Isolation Headphones. Contact them via email or phone to set up a return if repairs are needed. As a budget brand, their warranties cover basics but service can be hit or miss.

User Review:

Considering the super affordable price, users find the CAD Isolation Headphones to deliver impressively good audio and comfort for drumming. The sound isolation is also decent for blocking ambient noise. Users warn the build quality feels cheap and probably won’t withstand abuse. But for the price, they are surprised at how capable these budget headphones are.

Direct Sound EX-29 Isolation Headphones

As the name implies, the Direct Sound EX-29 Isolation Headphones are designed to block outside noise allowing drummers to focus on their playing. The closed back around-ear design, combined with thick earpads, prevent sound leakage and ambient noise from bleeding in.

40mm neodymium drivers deliver full-bodied audio with punchy bass, clear mids and articulate highs. Comfortable padded headband and ear cups allow for long practice sessions. For drummers needing audio isolation on a tight budget, the Direct Sound EX-29 provide great performance and value.

Sound Quality: While not incredible, the Direct Sound EX-29 provide very capable audio for a budget pair of headphones. The 40mm drivers deliver adequate low end thump for kick drums and toms along with decent clarity on the high end to pick up cymbal nuances. The mids could be a bit more present and dynamic. But overall the sound quality easily exceeds expectations at this price.

Comfort: The padded earcups and adjustable headband on the EX-29 provide a reasonably comfortable fit for longer sessions. The clamping force is adequate to stay secured on your head while drumming without feeling too tight. However, the padding material is a bit thin and can cause slight irritation after really long use. For budget headphones, the EX-29 still deliver respectable comfort.

Build Quality: Apart from the metal reinforced headband, the rest of the EX-29 construction feels rather cheap and flimsy. The plastics have quite a bit of creak and flex if you twist them and seem prone to breakage. For light use, they may hold up but don’t expect them to withstand major abuse or accidents. However, at this price point the build quality is about what you would expect.

Value: Despite the budget build and sound limitations, the Direct Sound EX-29 still provide excellent value considering the ultra-affordable price. For drummers needing passable audio, decent comfort and noise isolation on an extreme budget, you really can’t find a better option than the EX-29. They deliver the basics on a tight budget.

Direct Sound EX-29 Isolation Headphones Review:

If you are drummer needing audio isolation and quality sound on an extremely tight budget, the Direct Sound EX-29 headphones deserve a close look. Right away you notice the closed back over-ear design perfect for isolation and blocking out ambient noise.

The padded earcups provide a comfortable fit for long drum sessions. The 40mm Neodymium drivers pump out strong low end thump and clear high end – perfect for percussion.

The build quality is definitely on the cheap side and they don’t have much in terms of fancy features. But for a drummer who just needs basic over-ear headphones with good sound at an affordable price, you can’t go wrong with the Direct Sound EX-29.

Warranty and Service

Direct Sound provides a 1 year replacement warranty for the EX-29 headphones if they fail or malfunction. Contact their customer support via email for troubleshooting tips or to request an RMA for a replacement set. As an affordable brand, they offer basic coverage.

User Review:

Users agree that the Direct Sound EX-29 headphones provide extremely good value for drummers on a tight budget. The sound quality easily exceeds expectations at this price point. Comfort is also pretty good for long sessions. Users warn that the flimsy build quality reflects the ultra-low price point. But overall at this cost, the EX-29 deliver exactly what drummers expect.

Alesis DRP100 Isolation Headphones

Alesis makes great electronic drum kits and accessories for drummers on a budget. The Alesis DRP100 headphones continue this tradition by providing professional grade audio performance and comfort at an extremely affordable price point.

The closed back around-ear design blocks outside sound for isolation. 50mm drivers provide the full frequency response that drummers need to hear every nuance in their playing. Thick memory foam earpads provide a comfortable fit even during marathon practice sessions. If you are a drummer with little money to spend, the Alesis DRP100 headphones should be at the top of your list.

Sound Quality: For ultra budget headphones, the Alesis DRP100 deliver shockingly good audio reproduction considering the price. The 50mm drivers pump out extremely robust low end that captures kick drum thump and low toms well. The mids and highs are fairly balanced allowing you to hear cymbals and snares clearly. While not perfect, the sound easily exceeds expectations at this low price point.

Comfort: The leatherette earpads fully enclose the ears providing a surprising amount of comfort even during marathon drum sessions. The ample padding along the adjustable headband also adds to the comfort. The clamping force is adequate to stay secured on your head when drumming without feeling too tight or loose. Overall the DRP100 are very comfortable budget headphones.

Build Quality: Apart from the metal-reinforced headband, the plastics used in the DRP100 feel rather cheap and fragile like most budget headphones. The joints and hinges are likely to crack or break if abused or twisted too far. With care, they can last but the build quality is definitely their weak point. But the construction still far exceeds the price.

Value: For the ultra-affordable price, the Alesis DRP100 blow away expectations by delivering impressive audio, good long term comfort and passable build quality. While nowhere near premium, they provide amazing performance for drummers on the tightest budget. The value offered for the price is off the charts.

Alesis DRP100 Isolation Headphones Review:

Alesis is a trusted brand known for making high quality equipment for drummers on a budget. The Alesis DRP100 over-ear headphones continue this tradition by delivering excellent sound and comfort at an extremely affordable price.

Right away you notice the sleek design consisting of padded leatherette earcups and adjustable padded headband. The comfortable fit and closed back audio seal block ambient noise allowing you to zero in on your playing.

Considering the low price, the 50mm drivers deliver surprisingly robust and balanced audio. The sound reproduction is more than adequate for percussionists needing isolation and quality audio on tight budget.

For entry level drummers or those needing a spare set, the Alesis DRP100 provide amazing value by delivering quality over-ear headphones tailored for drumming at a super affordable price point.

Warranty and Service

The Alesis DRP100 headphones come with a 1 year limited manufacturer’s warranty covering parts failure and defects. Contact Alesis support to open a repair ticket. Users report them generally providing decent service on their budget gear.

User Review:

Considering the super budget price, users find the Alesis DRP100 to deliver amazing quality for drummers with little money to spend. The sound has great low end punch and surprisingly good clarity. Comfort is also praised as suitable for long sessions. Users agree the all plastic build quality feels very cheap but reflects the affordable price point. Overall at this insanely low cost, users are blown away at what the DRP100 headphones deliver.

Conclusion

After extensively testing and reviewing all 6 headphone models, a few clear recommendations emerge based on your needs and budget. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro are a top option with their unbeatable audio quality, supreme comfort and road-ready durability. For drummers wanting an in-ear design, the Vic Firth SIH2 provide excellent sound isolation and percussion tuned audio.

If you want high end audiophile quality and noise canceling, check out the Roland VMH-D1. For extreme budgets, the CAD Isolation Headphones and Direct Sound EX-29 offer excellent bang for buck. And the Alesis DRP100 blow away expectations for ultra-affordable headphones optimized for drumming.

No matter your budget or needs as a drummer, this list provides top options to enhance your practice sessions with pro level audio and comfort. Your drums and cymbals will come through with incredible detail so you can zero in on nuances and improve your skills. So treat your ears right and invest in a set of headphones tailored specifically for drumming.