Monitor Headphones: What Are They? Top Best Studio Professional Headphone Monitors. Wireless Models For Mixing And Others

2024 Author: Beatrice Philips | [email protected]. Last modified: 2024-01-15 04:10

There are many types of headphones. A separate category includes modern monitor devices that are of excellent quality and impressive size. Models of this type are sold in many stores. During its existence, monitor headphones managed to acquire a mass of fans. In today's article, we will take a closer look at such a technique and find out how to choose it.

What it is?

The term “monitor headphones” usually refers to high-quality, full-size accessories that deliver excellent sound quality and clarity. In most cases, these devices are used for recording vocals, DJ sets, arranging, writing and monitoring music. These popular studio devices can be great assistants for sound engineers or musicians.

When recording tracks in a studio, specialists should pick up the sound as clearly as possible, noticing any rustles and distortions . Only then, as a result, you can get a really high-quality audio product, devoid of any flaws. The spectrum of reproduced frequencies in current monitor headphones can be compared to the sound of full and large speaker systems, which are included in various ratings of the best equipment for DJs and sound engineers.

Peculiarities

Modern monitor-type headphones are presented in a rich assortment. Many models are used in professional fields and are very popular. The demand for such high-tech technology is not surprising - monitor headphones have a lot of positive characteristics that attract not only sound engineers, but also ordinary users.

• Such models of headphones can work with maximum noise isolation, which is very convenient.
• Most monitor headphones are very comfortable. They put little pressure on the head, do not cause discomfort. For many users, this is an important condition in the choice of musical accessories.
• Modern "monitors" are presented in a wide range. They are produced by many big brands. On sale you can find many devices that differ from each other in a variety of ways. On store shelves, not only classic, but also wireless items are displayed, which turn out to be one of the most convenient to use, because they do not need extra cables and wires to connect them. No less popular are special products - in-ear inserts, which are chosen by many consumers.
• Such headphone models can be different, as well as the price tag on them. This means that many of the devices are affordable.
• Most monitor headphones boast high quality sound reproduction. Tracks are played back without unnecessary interference, noise and distortion. That is why such thoughtful devices are often used in professional fields.
• Many monitor headphones are made from materials that are practical and durable. Accessories made of metal or aluminum alloy are especially popular today. Such products are ready to work for many years. They are difficult to damage or deform, which is not the case for cheap devices made of inexpensive plastic.

Such headphone models have no serious drawbacks. User dissatisfaction can only lie in too tight and tight-fitting closed accessories. However, this feature should not be attributed to the disadvantages of such devices - this is their characteristic that you have to reckon with if you want to hear the highest quality sound.

Some devices are very expensive . Usually these are professional accessories that are designed for use in a studio environment. On sale you can find such models, the cost of which exceeds 40 thousand rubles.

Of course, their quality and characteristics fully justify the final price, but many consumers are not satisfied with such figures at all.

Species overview

"Monitors" are different. Such products are produced by many well-known manufacturers, therefore accessories with differing technical characteristics are on sale. Let's take a closer look at what types modern monitor headphones are divided into, and what features they have.

Open

These models of monitor headphones are considered one of the most popular and convenient to use. They are found more often than other varieties. The comfort of open "monitors" is due to the most "soft" and neat coverage of the ears. At the same time, there is no unpleasant squeezing of the head, and the sound quality is impeccable and as clear as possible.

It should be noted that when using professional open-type headphones, you should forget about the high level of noise isolation.

It will not be possible to achieve absolute immersion in the listening process, which repels some users who are looking for this very important quality in "monitors".

Closed

Closed-back monitor headphones are literally designed for use in a recording studio. These products boast the highest levels of noise insulation. Among other models of headphones, it is the closed versions that have such positive characteristics.

Closed monitor headphones differ in that they are equipped with a rather tight and rigid headband . This feature is inherent in such "monitors" due to the distortion of low frequencies in the case of a loose fit of the "cups" to the listener's ears. This fact must be taken into account when choosing such devices.

Closed models of monitor headphones are usually equipped with special ear pads. It is due to these important components that a snug fit of the devices to the listener's head is ensured. The side edges of the "cups" of such accessories are not equipped with additional holes, so the sound never leaves the device.

Closed-back monitor headphones are considered ideal for music lovers who love to listen to rock music or metal

The bass in such devices is especially noticeable - this is one of their main features.

Semi-open

Monitor headphones of this type are classified as open models. Like the main variety, these devices have proven to be very user-friendly. They do not cause discomfort or pressure on the listener's head.

Today, many major manufacturers produce these types of monitor headphones

Many devices are affordable.

Rating of the best models

Modern manufacturers produce a lot of high-quality models of monitor headphones. Difficulties in choosing a suitable option lie only in a huge range of models. Let's consider a small rating of the best models from different brands.

Audio-Technica ATH M30X

These are inexpensive, but high-quality, budget-class monitor headphones. These devices are provided with a special detachable cable . In the set with the headphones there are two necessary wires: one for 1 meter and the other for 3 meters. Based on AKG technology, this headphone has a sensitivity of 98 dB / mW.

Sony MDR-7506

Modern Japanese headphones from Sony are in great demand. This model is very convenient to use both at home and on the street, and at work in a professional studio. These devices may well arouse the interest of DJs due to the excellent quality of soundtrack reproduction . The equipment range is 10 to 20,000 Hz. The sensitivity of these headphones is slightly above average and reaches 100 dB. The impedance is 63 ohms.

Sennheiser HD 280 Pro

Reliable and practical headphones with excellent sound quality. The country of origin of these popular devices is Germany. These headphones belong to the classic category and are suitable for mixing or recording . They are very often used in modern studio environments. The technique has a spiral drive. It can stretch up to 3 meters. Provides a dynamic type of playback with a range from 8 to 25000 Hz.

Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro (250 OHM)

These are popular German headphones, the appearance of which cannot be called youthful or too presentable. They look the simplest and most discreet. Equipped with large side bowls, spiral drive . The device has a special embossed coating, designed to resemble the skin. The equipment looks massive, but it weighs only 270 g. The headphones are equipped with a reliable metal frame, leather headband. Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro sit very comfortably on the listener's head, since the adjoining part is made as soft and pleasant as possible. The type of sound reproduced is dynamic, the frequency range is limited to 5-35000 Hz.

Shure SRH1540

Popular American "monitors" of high quality, belonging to the premium class. These devices have been designed specifically for professional musicians and sound engineers. The dynamic range is 5 to 25,000 Hz. Sensitivity - 99 dB / mW. The accessory is lightweight - only 286 g.

It is characterized by excellent quality, since it is based on an alloy of aircraft-grade aluminum.

AKG K712 Pro

These are high quality Austrian headphones designed especially for professional sound engineers. The specified model is assembled by hand and has a truly unique design performance. The headphones are equipped with comfortable and soft "cups" that you will not get tired of even after long wear . The impedance of the device is only 62 ohms, so you can safely use even high-power equipment for sound reproduction. The working range of the device is 10-39800 Hz.

These products are ideal for those situations when you want to hear the highest quality sound both in headphones and on stage.

Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro

These are high quality German headphones that can be used for recording if desired, although they are not quite suitable for this. In mixing, these devices are very difficult to find competitors. The device is perfectly balanced, has a flat frequency response, practically has no displacements . The frequency range ranges from 5 to 35000 Hz. The sensitivity of these monitor headphones is 95 dB.

They are made of strong and durable metal, which makes them practical and durable.

Roland RH-A30

These are high quality Japanese-made headphones that are designed for use in a studio environment with semi-professional equipment. The input power of this device is 1600 mW . The product has an attractive and stylish design that many users like. The body is made of durable aluminum with fabric overlays.

If you use these devices for a long time, there is no risk of discomfort, as they are very comfortable.

Sennheiser HD650

These are popular German headphones of impeccable workmanship. Accessories can delight you with crystal clear sound and versatility. The range of these accessories is from 10 to 41,000 Hz. The sensitivity reaches 103 dB.

The impedance is only 300 ohms, which is not the best value for the devices in question.

Fostex T50RP MK3

Top of the best models are closed by these high-quality Japanese monitor-type headphones. The accessory has a rather simple design that is not striking. These studio headphones are more different in "internal stuffing" than external data . The working range of these products is from 15 to 35000 Hz, and the maximum power reaches 3000 mW.

The accessory has a comfortable and soft headband with a foreseen automatic adjustment.

Criterias of choice

If you want to buy high-quality monitor headphones that will not disappoint you later, then you should be more careful when choosing them. Let's take a look at what device parameters you should pay attention to when looking for the best option.

Purpose of Acquisition . The first thing you need to pay attention to is the actual purpose of buying monitor headphones. If you are buying a device exclusively for ordinary home use, then there is no point in looking for very expensive devices designed for professional use. If you are looking for the best model for a recording studio, solving more serious problems, then you should pay attention to a more thoughtful model with rich technical parameters.

All characteristics are best checked against the accompanying documentation.

Convenience . Professional monitor headphones should definitely be comfortable for you. You can try on the device before buying, if possible. Consider the fact that open models are looser in socks, and closed ones may seem taut - this is not their drawback. The second options should be like this for high-quality sound reproduction.

Make sure that the gadget sits on you normally, without falling off or causing pain.

Design . This is not the most important parameter in choosing monitor headphones, but many users pay quite a lot of attention to it. After all, it is more pleasant to use attractive products. Modern manufacturers produce a lot of models that have both a simple and an original appearance that is striking.

The choice of the best option remains only for the consumer.

Build quality . Take the time to meticulously inspect the accessory that you liked. Do not rush to pay for your favorite headphone model. Consider them carefully. Devices must not be damaged by scratches, abrasions or chips. There should be no loose or loose parts in the design of the accessory.

If you notice at least one of the listed shortcomings, it is better to refuse the purchase - you should look for another option or visit another store.

Sound quality . It is advisable to listen to what sound your chosen monitor headphones are playing. It must be clean, free from distortion, noise and other possible defects. If any have been noticed by you, this should cause you some doubts.

Devices that are malfunctioning should not be purchased.

Brand . Buy exclusively branded monitor headphones. Such products both last longer and look more attractive. Such devices are sold in many specialized stores where audio or household appliances are sold. In such places, you will be allowed to inspect the device in detail, as well as test it. In branded outlets, along with branded devices, a warranty card is issued, with which you can return to the place of purchase in case of a defect or malfunctions in the operation of equipment.