Studio headphones are designed for reliable listening in professional audio production. From recording and editing to mixing and mastering, they provide a detailed and controlled sound reproduction. Depending on their design, the focus may be on isolation for tracking or on a natural, open sound for critical listening. In addition to classic studio headphones, this category also includes hi-fi headphones, headphones with microphone, Bluetooth headphones and headphone amplifiers.
Closed studio headphones are designed for situations where isolation and control are essential. Their closed ear cups prevent sound leakage, ensuring that click tracks and playback do not bleed into microphones during recording sessions.
They are also a practical choice for editing, mobile production and DJ monitoring, as they help maintain focus even in louder environments.
Suitable for: home studios, recording booths, rehearsal rooms, mobile setups
Open studio headphones are built for critical listening. Their open design creates a wider, more natural stereo image, making it easier to judge balance, panning and spatial detail in a mix.
While they are not ideal for recording with microphones, they are highly valued for mixing and mastering tasks.
Suitable for: mixing rooms, project studios, critical listening at the desk
Hi-Fi headphones focus on listening enjoyment and comfort. Compared to studio headphones, their sound is often tuned to be more musical and pleasant for long listening sessions.
They can also serve as a secondary reference for producers who want to hear how a mix translates to consumer listening environments.
Suitable for: everyday listening at home, commuting, leisure listening, secondary mix reference
Headphones with microphone combine monitoring and communication in one solution. They are commonly used for streaming, podcasting, video calls and online meetings.
For professional studio work, a dedicated microphone is usually preferred, but headsets offer convenience and flexibility.
Suitable for: streaming & podcasting, video calls, remote work, gaming setups
Bluetooth headphones offer wireless freedom and convenience. They are ideal for everyday listening, travel and flexible workflows.
For critical recording, mixing and mastering, wired headphones remain the preferred option due to latency and compression.
Suitable for: travel, practice sessions, casual listening, flexible hybrid workflows
Headphone amplifiers provide clean power, additional headroom and often multiple outputs with individual level control.
They are especially useful when driving higher-impedance headphones or when several listeners need reliable monitoring at the same time.
Suitable for: studios with multiple listeners, rehearsal rooms, tracking sessions, higher-impedance headphones
Studio headphones are designed for recording, editing, mixing and mastering, with an accurate and detailed sound reproduction.
32–80 ohms work well with most interfaces. Higher impedances often benefit from a headphone amplifier.
Closed models are ideal for recording, while open models are preferred for mixing and mastering.
Because sound can leak out and be picked up by microphones.
It is useful for high-impedance headphones or when multiple listeners need monitoring.
Wired headphones are preferred for critical work. Bluetooth is mainly for convenience and mobility.
Soft ear pads, low weight and a comfortable clamping force are important for long sessions.
Over-ear (circumaural) headphones are generally the most comfortable.
6.3 mm (¼”) jack is standard in studios, often with a 3.5 mm adapter.
For long sessions, moderate levels around 85 dB SPL are recommended.