When it comes to headphones for beatmaking, there are several important factors to consider. Here’s an overview of what you should know:
Types of Headphones
Closed-back Headphones
- Ideal for recording and mixing
- Provide good sound isolation
- Prevent sound leakage
Open-back Headphones
- Better for critical listening and mastering
- Offer a more natural, spacious sound
- Less isolation, not ideal for recording
Key Features for Beatmaking
Frequency Response
- Look for a flat, neutral response (20Hz – 20kHz)
- Avoid overly bass-heavy models for accurate mixing
Comfort
- Essential for long studio sessions
- Consider weight, ear cup size, and headband padding
Durability
- Studio headphones should withstand regular use
- Look for replaceable parts (ear pads, cables)
Impedance and Sensitivity
- Higher impedance (>250 ohms) for studio use
- Lower impedance (<32 ohms) for mobile devices
Popular Headphone Models for Beatmaking
- Sony MDR-7506
- Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Sennheiser HD 600
- AKG K702
Additional Considerations
- Budget: Quality headphones range from $100 to $500+
- Try before you buy if possible
- Consider getting both closed and open-back headphones for different tasks
- Remember that room treatment and monitor speakers are also crucial for a complete setup
When choosing headphones for beatmaking, prioritize accuracy and comfort over bass-heavy “consumer” sound. This will help ensure your mixes translate well across different playback systems.