Mixing and mastering are two critical things in the music production process that require a high level of precision and accuracy. To achieve the best results, it is vital to have the right tools and equipment and headphones are one of them. In this review guide, we will be discussing 3 of the best headphones for mixing and mastering that can help you produce high-quality audio.
However, before we move to the review of headphones, it is essential to understand the difference between mixing and mastering. Mixing involves adjusting the levels, panning, and effects of individual tracks to create a cohesive final mix. On the other hand, mastering is the process of finalizing and optimizing the mix for different playback systems, including speakers and headphones.
Things to Consider When Choosing the Best Headphones for Mixing and Mastering
-
Frequency Response:
Headphones with a flat frequency response are best for mixing and mastering because they accurately reproduce the full spectrum of audio frequencies.
-
Soundstage:
A wide soundstage allows you to easily distinguish different instruments and sounds in a mix.
-
Comfort:
Mixing and mastering can be a long process, so it’s important to choose headphones that are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
-
Noise Isolation:
In a recording or mixing environment, it’s important to have headphones that block out external noise so you can focus on the audio you’re working with. So always prefer buying a pair of headphones with noise isolation.
-
Durability:
Since headphones for mixing and mastering may be used frequently, it’s important to choose a pair that is built to last.
-
Price:
The price of headphones can widely differ, so it’s important to choose a pair that fits your budget while still meeting your needs.
Best Headphones for Mixing and Mastering Review
-
AKG Pro Audio K371 Over-Ear Studio Headphones
Our first pick for the best headphones for mixing and mastering is the AKG Pro Audio K371 studio headphones. These headphones are a popular choice for music production and audio mixing as they are designed to deliver high-quality sound with wide frequency responses.
Another great selling feature of the K371 headphones is their comfort level. The headphones feature padded ear cups and a padded headband, which help to reduce fatigue during extended listening sessions. The ear cups also have a unique shape that allows them to fit snugly around the ears, providing a good seal and helping to isolate external noise.
In terms of sound quality, the AKG Pro Audio K371 headphones offer a balanced and accurate representation of the audio they are playing back. They have a frequency response of 5Hz to 40kHz, which covers the full range of human hearing, and they have a sensitivity of 114dB. Moreover, these headphones also have a low impedance of 32 ohms, which means they can be driven by a wide range of devices, including smartphones, tablets, and portable music players.
One potential downside of the K371 headphones is that they are not designed for noise cancellation. They do a good job of blocking out external noise due to their snug fit and passive noise isolation, but they do not have active noise cancellation technology. This may be a consideration for those who need headphones for use in noisy environments.
Pros
- Super comfy
- Awesome sound quality
- Pretty much blocks out external noise
- Very compact when folded
Cons
- Slightly fidgety fit
- The cable seems cheap
-
Sennheiser HD 600 Audiophile Hi-Res Dynamic Headphone
The Sennheiser HD 600 is another top-rated headphone for mixing and mastering. The open-back headphones are quite popular among audiophiles and music professionals. Moreover, is known for its excellent sound quality and comfortable fit.
One of the standout features of the HD 600 is its wide frequency response, which ranges from 12 Hz to 39 kHz. This allows it to reproduce a wide range of sounds with excellent detail and clarity. The headphones also have a very low harmonic distortion, which means they produce very little distortion even at high volume levels.
In addition, the HD 600 is also designed to be comfortable to wear for long periods of time, with padded ear cups and a padded headband. It is made of high-quality materials, including a lightweight aluminum voice coil and robust plastic housing.
Overall, the Sennheiser HD 600 is a top-quality pair of headphones that delivers exceptional sound quality and comfort. If you’re looking for a high-end pair of headphones for mixing and mastering, the HD 600 is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- Extremely detailed
- Premium sound quality
- Top-tier comfort
- Exceptional comfort
Cons
- A little expensive
- Build quality is just “Ok”
-
Sony MDR7506 Professional Diaphragm Headphone
Our last pick for the best headphones for mixing and mastering is the Sony MDR7506. This pair of headphones is a great choice for someone who is low on budget and is still on the quest for a high-quality pair of headphones.
One of the best features of the MDR7506 is its closed-back design, which helps to isolate ambient noise and allows for focused listening. The headphones have a frequency response of 10 Hz to 20 kHz, making them suitable for a wide range of audio applications.
The MDR7506 is also comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, thanks to its padded ear cups and headband. The headphones are lightweight and foldable, making them easy to store and travel.
In terms of sound quality, the MDR7506 delivers clear, accurate audio across the frequency spectrum. The headphones have a 40 mm driver unit and neodymium magnets, which help to produce a rich, full sound.
Pros
- Excellent build quality
- Clear and crisp sound with good separation
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Super affordable
Cons
- Ear cushions keep falling off
- Makes your ears feel warm
