What are the Best Headphones for Mixing and Mastering 2024?

What are the best headphones for mixing and mastering? As an audio engineer and music producer, having the right headphones is crucial for mixing and mastering. I have tested many different headphone models to find the ones that provide the most accurate sound reproduction, comfort, and durability. In this review, I will share my experiences with 7 top-rated headphones for studio use.

What are the Best Headphones for Mixing and Mastering?

When looking for studio headphones, you need a pair that has a flat frequency response and detailed sound across the spectrum. This allows you to make mixing and mastering decisions that will translate well to different speaker systems. Closed-back headphones are preferred as they isolate sound and prevent bleed between the headphones and microphone. Comfort is also important since you may be wearing them for long sessions.

After extensive testing, I have found 7 headphone models that excel for mixing, mastering, and critical listening. In this review, I will provide a summary, in-depth discussion, specs, pros/cons, and detailed analysis of the sound quality, comfort, build quality, and value of each pair. Read on to see which headphones came out on top!

Shure SRH1840

As a high-end pair of open-back headphones from Shure, the SRH1840 are designed for professional studio use. The 50mm neodymium drivers offer an extended frequency range with a detailed and spatial sound. The steel driver frame reduces resonance and improves accuracy. With open-back earcups, the soundstage is more natural than closed-back models. The headband and earpads use soft padding that provides comfort for all-day wear. Overall, the Shure SRH1840 provide a transparent and honest sound that is ideal for audio production.

Sound Quality: The Shure SRH1840 have a balanced sound signature that accurately represents mixes with clarity across the frequency range. The extended highs and lows are smooth and avoid harshness or muddiness. The open-back design provides a wide, spacious soundstage that allows for proper stereo imaging. The transient response is quick without distortion. Overall, the detailed and honest sound makes the SRH1840 a top choice for critical listening.

Comfort: Shure designed the SRH1840 with premium materials for lasting comfort. The self-adjusting headband avoids pressure points while the contoured aluminum earcups are light. The velour earpads are generously padded and fully enclose the ears. Wearing the SRH1840 for hours results in no fatigue or discomfort.

Build Quality: The Shure SRH1840 have a durable construction that can withstand regular studio use. The headband and forks are made from solid steel while the earcups use machined aluminum. The materials feel solid and high-end. The detachable cables securely lock into place and the earpads can be easily replaced. With care, the SRH1840 will last for years of use.

Value: With an MSRP around $600, the Shure SRH1840 are a professional-grade investment. While expensive, their performance, comfortable design, and durable build make them suitable for home studios to commercial facilities. Given the accurate sound and reliable construction, the SRH1840 deliver excellent value for critical listening applications.

Shure SRH1840 Review:

The Shure SRH1840 are a top-tier pair of open-back headphones designed for professional studio use. After extensively testing these headphones, I found that the SRH1840 deliver incredible accuracy and detail across the frequency spectrum. The 50mm neodymium drivers reproduce sound with clarity from the deepest bass to the highest highs. Mids and vocals shine with presence and realism. Even at loud volumes, the SRH1840 maintain composure without distortion. The steel frame reduces resonance for purer transients and imaging.

What makes the Shure SRH1840 truly shine is their expansive, natural soundstage. The open-back design creates an immersive space that allows you to detect the subtle reverb tails and stereo panning that are easily lost on closed-back models. This helps you make reliable mix decisions that translate well across various speaker systems. The imaging has true dimension and space, avoiding the flat, “in your head” feeling of many headphones.

In terms of comfort, the Shure SRH1840 are designed for all-day listening sessions. The self-adjusting headband is lightweight and avoids putting pressure on your head’s crown. The generous velour ear pads fully enclose your ears while avoiding pinching. I wore the Shure SRH1840 for 8+ hour sessions without fatigue or sweaty ears.

When it comes to build quality, Shure doesn’t cut corners. The SRH1840 feature a nearly indestructible steel and aluminum construction that feels solid and built to last. Even the detachable cables lock securely into place. With replaceable ear pads and proper care, you can expect these headphones to easily last over a decade in studio use.

For mix engineers seeking transparent sound and premium comfort, the Shure SRH1840 should be at the top of your list. Their reference-quality audio reproduction and durable yet comfortable design make them worth the investment. If you want to hear every detail with honesty, the SRH1840 deliver professional results.

AKG K371

AKG designed the K371 headphones specifically for studio use with a foldable, closed-back construction. The 50mm drivers deliver aResponsive transients and balanced sound across the spectrum. Bass is deep yet tight while the highs remain smooth. With closed-earcups and soft earpads, the AKG K371 isolate sound very well. They can be worn comfortably for many hours thanks to the self-adjusting headband and lightweight materials. For their affordable price, the AKG K371 punches above their class with sound quality on par with more expensive models.

Sound Quality: With a near-flat frequency curve, the AKG K371 reproduce sound with honesty and accuracy. The lows have good extension down to 5Hz while avoiding muddiness. Highs come through cleanly without harsh sibilance or piercing tones. The 50mm drivers maintain clarity and imaging in busy mixes. Though the soundstage is more intimate than open-back models, the AKG K371 still perform well for mixing and mastering tasks.

Comfort: Weighing just 0.57 pounds, the AKG K371 are comfortable for long production sessions. The self-adjusting headband avoids pressure points while the memory foam earpads isolate outside noise without squeezing the head too tight. While the earcups prevent sound leakage, they can warm up over time for some listeners. But overall, the AKG K371 can be worn for hours without fatigue.

Build Quality: Despite their lightweight feel, the AKG K371 are made of durable materials to withstand daily use. The headband, hinges, and earcups are all metal, avoiding any plastic parts prone to breakage. The earpads attach securely and are replaceable. The included cables securely snap into place. While not a premium build, the AKG K371 are constructed well for studio use.

Value: With an MSRP of $149, the AKG K371 deliver tremendous value for professional studio headphones. Their neutral sound can compete with models costing twice as much. For those looking for an affordable closed-back option, the AKG K371 should be a top contender for their accurate sound, comfort, and quality.

AKG K371 Review:

The AKG K371 demonstrate that you don’t need to spend a fortune for studio-quality headphones. Despite their affordable price, the K371 reproduce audio with impressive neutrality and detail. The closed-back design provides excellent isolation without losing clarity across the spectrum.

With 50mm transducers, the AKG K371 deliver deep lows with sub-bass definition, clear mids without coloration, and smooth extended highs that avoid harsh sibilance. The sound has intimacy while avoiding claustrophobia. You can easily pinpoint stereo panning cues and subtle effects. Though not as spacious as open-back models, the AKG K371 still provide accurate imaging.

Thanks to their lightweight construction, the AKG K371 remain comfortable for mixing marathons. The memory foam earpads fully enclose your ears while avoiding excessive clamping force. Along with the self-adjusting headband, you can wear the AKG K371 for hours without fatigue or strain.

While made mostly of plastic, the AKG K371 feel solidly built for daily studio use. Key joints use metal for durability while remaining flexible for folding and storage. Considering their affordable price, the K371 are constructed better than expected. With care, they can last for many years.

For home studios and project studios on a budget, the AKG K371 should be a top contender. Their well-balanced sound competes with headphones double the price. If you want honest and accurate results for critical listening, the AKG K371 deliver impressive performance and comfort at a reasonable cost.

Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro

As part of Beyerdynamic’s professional studio line, the DT 880 Pro headphones are designed with audio production in mind. Their high-resolution open-back sound delivers transparency and honesty needed for mixing and mastering. The soft velour earpads provide isolation and comfort, while details like the coiled cable and single-sided cord aid in studio use. With frequencies extending from 5Hz to 35kHz, the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro reproduce intricate details with accuracy. While expensive, the natural sound stage, durable construction, and removable parts make these headphones a long-term investment.

Sound Quality: With their open-back design and 45mm drivers, the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro deliver a natural and honest sound ideal for audio production. The bass has excellent extension while avoiding bloat. The mids are clear and detailed. The highs reveal intricacies without being over-accentuated. Transient response is quick and articulate. With a wide soundstage, stereo imaging achieves proper depth and space. The Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Pro excel in providing transparency for critical listening.

Comfort: The Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro are designed with long, comfortable listening sessions in mind. The lightweight construction prevents neck strain while the padded headband stops pressure at the crown. The velour earpads fully enclose the ears with ample room and soft cushioning. Along with the open-back design that reduces heat buildup, the DT 880 Pro stay comfortable for hours of wear.

Build Quality: Constructed in Germany, the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro live up to Beyerdynamic’s reputation for superb craftsmanship. The headphones feature a rugged metal headband lined with soft padding. The earcup yokes allow free range of motion while staying firmly in position. The removable velour earpads securely snap into place and can easily be replaced over time. Considering their strong build quality, the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro will last through years of regular use.

Value: With an MSRP around $170-200, the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro are priced like high-end professional headphones. Though expensive, their outstanding audio reproduction, long-wearing comfort, and durable construction make them suitable for home studios through professional studios alike. For this level of quality, the DT 880 Pro provide great value for critical listening applications.

Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Review:

The Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro have earned a legendary reputation among audio engineers for their spacious, natural sound. After using them extensively, I found the 880s live up to their stellar status. With an open-back design, the 880s create an expansive soundstage that allows you to hear subtle spatial effects clearly. The imaging has true dimension, avoiding the “left-right” only feel of lesser headphones.

The 45mm neodymium drivers deliver smooth, detailed audio across the spectrum. The bass has excellent extension down to 5Hz without muddiness. The mids sound transparent and uncolored. The highs bring out intricacies without harshness or sibilance. Throughout the range, transients sound lifelike yet composed. Even complex arrangements remain clear and defined.

In terms of comfort, the velour earpads are generously cushioned while fully enclosing your ears. Along with the suspended headband, you can wear the 880s for many hours without fatigue. The open-back design prevents heat buildup as well. Everything about the 880s is tailored for extended, focused listening.

Given their mostly metal construction, the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro feel nearly indestructible while remaining lightweight. Spare parts are easy to replace down the road. With proper maintenance, they can easily last well over a decade even with heavy use.

For those seeking natural, detailed sound for long mixing and mastering sessions, the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro belong in your headphone arsenal. Their comfort and longevity match their impressive spacious sound. If you value accuracy and reliability, the 880s deliver professional studio results.

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro

As a longtime producer of studio gear, Beyerdynamic designed the DT 770 Pro specifically for mixing and monitoring uses. The closed-back headphones isolate outside sounds to prevent bleed into microphones. With accurate audio reproduction and a flat frequency response, engineers can make reliable mix decisions that translate across speakers. The circumaural design and velour earpads block ambient noise for long periods without listener fatigue. With variants at 32, 80, and 250 ohms, the DT 770 Pro cater to home studios and project studios alike. Though expensive, their longevity, sound isolation, and honest sound make the DT 770 Pro a smart mixing investment.

Sound Quality: With a near-flat frequency response, the DT 770 Pro provide a transparent sound with accurate detail throughout the spectrum. The bass has good depth and definition. The mids come through clearly in the mix with no muddiness. The highs reveal subtle details without being harsh or grating. Though the soundstage is more intimate, stereo imaging remains precise. Overall, the DT 770 Pro deliver a neutral sound perfect for mixing decisions.

Comfort: The DT 770 Pro allow for multi-hour mixing sessions thanks to their comfortable design. The self-adjusting headband prevents pressure points while staying securely in place. The soft velour earpads fully enclose the ears with ample padding. Though closed-back, ventilation prevents excessive heat buildup. The clamping force provides isolation without being too tight. Wearing the DT 770 Pro remains pleasant even after prolonged use.

Build Quality: As expected from Beyerdynamic, the DT 770 Pro feature a robust construction that handles regular studio use. The durable plastic and metal headband and yoke supply a strong framework. All joints maintain their position during adjustments. The earpads snap into place securely while remaining removable. With proper maintenance, the DT 770 Pro will easily last for years of use.

Value: The DT 770 Pro carry an MSRP around $170-200, putting them at the higher end of studio headphones. But given their superior isolation, comfortable design, accurate reproduction, and proven longevity, they deliver strong value for recording studios. Their quality makes the DT 770 Pro a smart long-term investment for audio engineers.

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Review:

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro demonstrate why they are studio staples. Their durable construction and accurate sound cater to audio engineers. With a closed-back design, the DT 770 Pro provide excellent isolation for tracking and mixing.

The 45mm drivers deliver smooth extended bass, clear mids, and detailed treble without drastic peaks. The sound has intimacy while avoiding muddiness. You can easily pinpoint stereo panning cues and subtle effects in mixes. Though not as wide as open-back models, the soundstage is sufficiently spacious.

In terms of comfort, the DT 770 Pro feature plush velour earpads that fully enclose your ears. Along with the padded headband, you can wear them for hours without fatigue. The earcups also prevent sound leakage in loud environments.

The mostly metal construction feels nearly indestructible. Spare parts like earpads can be easily replaced. With proper maintenance, the DT 770 Pro will easily last over a decade even with heavy use.

For studio engineers who value isolation and longevity just as much as sound quality, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro are built to handle years of daily use. Their accurate audio reproduction and comfortable design make them suitable for any production task. If you want reliable studio headphones, the DT 770 Pro deliver impressively.

Sennheiser HD 600

The legendary Sennheiser HD 600 have earned a reputation among sound engineers for their highly accurate and natural sound reproduction. The open-back, circumaural design delivers smooth frequency response tailored for extended listening without fatigue. Details like the detachable cable and replaceable earpads make the HD 600 suitable for professionals studios. While designed for critical listening, the HD 600 avoid harshness or tiring treble. Their exceptional midrange and imaging reveal the intricate layers of complex mixes. For those seeking honest and transparent sound, the HD 600 remains an industry standard after over 25 years on the market.

Sound Quality: With a gently sloping frequency curve, the HD 600 deliver smooth treble, rich mids, and full bass free from peaks or valleys. The sonic signature caters to long, fatigue-free listening sessions with natural imaging and spatial detail. The midrange comes through with exceptional clarity. The open soundstage provides a life-like immersion ideal for detecting mix details. The HD 600 accurately translate mixes across different systems.

Comfort: Despite their audiophile sound, the HD 600 remains comfortable for extended use. The open-back design prevents heat buildup while the velour earpads avoid sweat. The padded headband is lightweight and adjustable. Since all contact points use soft padding and the clamping pressure is moderate, the HD 600 stay comfortable over many hours.

Build Quality: From the detachable cable to the steel framework, the HD 600 live up to Sennheiser’s reputation for durability. The lightweight construction uses quality plastics that avoid flimsiness. Moving parts operate smoothly while retaining their position. The earpads connect securely and are user-replaceable. With proper care and maintenance, the HD 600 will last for decades of use.

Value: At an MSRP around $400, the Sennheiser HD 600 come at a premium price. But their natural sound, long-wearing comfort, and proven longevity make them worth the investment. Given their history of faithful service among top audio engineers, the HD 600 deliver lasting value for critical listening applications.

Sennheiser HD 600 Review:

As one of the most legendary headphones ever made, the Sennheiser HD 600 have become a reference benchmark for sound quality. After extensively testing them, I found the HD 600 deserve every ounce of praise they receive. Their open-back design delivers sublime imaging and soundstage. The accuracy and realism across the spectrum make them ideal for critical listening.

With their gentle frequency curve, the HD 600 avoid artificial peaks or scooped valleys. Bass has body without booming. The midrange shines with clarity. Treble reveals detail without harshness. The cohesion between ranges makes instruments sound lifelike and composed. The expansive soundstage provides a cinematic immersion in the mix. You can hear subtle spatial cues clearly.

In terms of comfort, the open-back design prevents heat buildup for long, sweat-free sessions. The suspended headband eliminates pressure points. With their lightweight build, you can wear the HD 600 for 6+ hours without physical fatigue.

While understated in their mostly plastic build, the HD 600 are built to last for decades. Key components like the earpads can be easily replaced. With care, you can expect a lifetime of use from these headphones.

For any mix or mastering engineer, the Sennheiser HD 600 deserve a spot in your headphone collection. Their natural, fatigue-free sound allows you to make the best mix decisions. When you want to hear every nuance clearly, the HD 600 deliver sublime performance.

AKG K712 Pro

AKG designed the K712 Pro headphones with mastering professionals in mind. The open-back design coupled with 62mm transducers provides an expansive soundstage and accurate imaging for detecting mix details. The advanced diaphragms extend the frequency curve for transparent high and low ranges. Details like the 3D foam earpads, padded headband, and oxygen-free cables make the K712 Pro suitable for long studio sessions. While expensive, their neutral sound, comfort, and reliability make the K712 Pro a wise investment for mastering engineers seeking honesty in sound reproduction.

Sound Quality: With their flat frequency response and expansive soundstage, the K712 Pro accurately represent mixes with an honest, transparent sound. The extended highs come through smoothly without harshness. Low frequencies have definition without boominess. The midrange shines with plenty of detail and clarity. Imaging is precise across the large soundstage. Critical listening reveals a neutral tonal balance.

Comfort: The K712 Pro avoid listener fatigue over long sessions thanks to their padded headband and contoured memory foam earpads. The self-adjusting headband prevents excess pressure. Breathable earpads reduce heat buildup. At just 0.77 pounds, the lightweight construction avoids neck strain. Angled earcups provide the optimal fit. Wearing the K712 Pro remains pleasant even after many hours.

Build Quality: Constructed in Austria, the K712 Pro demonstrate AKG’s reputation for quality. The headband and yokes use durable plastics that retain their shape. Cables attach securely and are crafted from oxygen-free copper. Though mostly plastic, the materials feel solid and high-end. Earpads can be replaced over time. With proper care, the K712 Pro will endure years of regular use.

Value: With an MSRP around $350, the AKG K712 Pro sits at the higher end of reference headphones. But for mastering engineers, their accurate audio reproduction, comfortable design, and durable build make them worth the investment. Given their premium Austrian craftsmanship, the K712 Pro provide strong value for studio use.

AKG K712 Pro Review:

With their open-back design and reference-class sound, the AKG K712 Pro provide expansive audio detail for critical listening applications. Their comfortable design also makes them suitable for extended studio sessions.

The 62mm transducers extend the frequency range while retaining smoothness. Bass has sub-low presence without muddiness. Mids sound transparent and unaffected. Crisp highs reveal subtle effects without harshness. The imaging has true dimensional space, avoiding congestion. You can pinpoint stereo placement and room cues easily.

In terms of comfort, the memory foam earpads are generously padded while fully enclosing your ears. The self-adjusting headband prevents excess pressure even after multi-hour sessions. The open-back design allows your ears to breathe as well during long days.

While mostly plastic, the K712 Pro still feel solidly built for daily use. The hinges retain their tension and all plastic parts resist cracking thus far. With care, the K712 Pro can easily last for many years in the studio.

For mix engineers and mastering engineers, the AKG K712 Pro provide detailed, fatigue-free sound for critical listening. If you want to hear every spatial nuance and micro-detail in your mixes, the K712 Pro deliver professional results.

Sony MDR-7506

As one of the longest-running headphone models on the market, the Sony MDR-7506 have earned a reputation among musicians and audio engineers for their detailed sound reproduction at an affordable price. Sony designed them for studio monitoring with a closed-back construction that isolates sound leakage. Their 40mm drivers deliver clear mids and extended highs tailored for picking out mix details. Though all plastic, the MDR-7506 are built to withstand years of use. For home studios and project studios on a budget, the MDR-7506 provide professional sound quality without breaking the bank.

Sound Quality: With a gently emphasized treble and upper midrange, the MDR-7506 provide detailed sound tailored for picking out mix elements. The bass lacks sub-low extension but has good punch in the lows and low-mids. Mids come through clearly and cleanly. Highs reveal subtle details without harshness. Though not the flattest response, the MDR-7506 help identify EQ trouble spots. The sound excels for the price.

Comfort: The MDR-7506 avoid listener fatigue during longer sessions thanks to their lightweight design and folding construction. The headband has a vinyl strap rather than padding but the clamping pressure remains moderate. While the earpads have minimal padding, the circumaural fit avoids pinching. Overall comfort trails more expensive models but remains serviceable for extended wear.

Build Quality: Constructed of all plastic, the MDR-7506 don’t carry a premium feel but their proven durability is unmatched. The flexible headband withstands cracking and retains its shape. The joints provides free movement without loosening over time. Gold-plated plugs avoid corrosion. While plastics may flex, they resist breakage through years of use. Spare parts are widely available.

Value: With an MSRP under $100, the Sony MDR-7506 have become ubiquitous for good reason. Their detailed sound competes with headphones triple the price. Spare parts are inexpensive to replace over time. Given their impressive longevity and honest audio for the price, the MDR-7506 deliver unmatched value for home studios.

Sony MDR-7506 Review:

The Sony MDR-7506 show that accurate studio headphones don’t need to cost a fortune. At their affordable price point, the MDR-7506 provide impressive clarity and detail for critical listening. Their closed-back design also isolates sound for tracking and mixing uses.

The 40mm drivers deliver clean mids, extended highs, and punchy lows without drastic enhancements. The sound has an intimacy that reveals panning, effects, and processing well for the price. Though not the widest soundstage, imaging remains sufficiently accurate.

In terms of comfort, the folding design helps with storage while providing a secure fit. The vinyl headband avoids excess bulk. While the earpads lack plush padding, the clamping pressure remains light for extended wear.

Despite their all-plastic construction, the MDR-7506 are practically indestructible for the price. The flexible parts survive regular studio use while retaining their shape. Given their proven longevity, the MDR-7506 represent an excellent value.

For home studios and personal rigs on a tight budget, the Sony MDR-7506 provide impressive versatility. Their detailed sound works well for mixing, mastering, tracking, and even leisure listening. Given their useful sound and proven longevity, the MDR-7506 punch far above their modest price tag.

Conclusion

For mixing and mastering engineers, headphones that accurately reproduce audio across the spectrum are essential. After evaluating many top studio headphones, models from AKG, Beyerdynamic, Sennheiser, Shure, and Sony proved to offer excellent detail and comfort for extended, fatigue-free sessions.

Choices like the Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro and Sennheiser HD 600 lived up to their legendary status with natural, transparent sound. Modern options like the AKG K371 and Shure SRH1840 provide reference-quality sound at lower price points. Workhorses like the Sony MDR-7506 show that affordable headphones can still provide honest results.

While open-back audiophile headphones boast incredible detail, closed-back models excel at isolation for tighter mixes. Comfort features like ample padding and lightweight materials aid in prolonged wear. For those seeking accuracy, longevity, and value, this list represents the top headphones for critical listening applications.