Mixing music requires precision, accuracy, and a keen ear for detail. Over the years, I’ve tried many headphones, but only a few stand out as the best for mixing in 2024. Here are my top picks:
Sony MDR-7506
The Sony MDR-7506 has been a staple in the recording industry for years. Its flat sound profile makes it ideal for mixing, although it does have a few quirks. The sub-bass rolloff and peaks at 2 kHz and 4 kHz are noticeable. Additionally, there’s a huge dip at 10 kHz, which can be a drawback. However, in a mixing setting, these frequencies can become ultra-fatiguing, so the Sony MDR-7506 remains a solid choice. Its closed-back design adds versatility, making it suitable for multiple applications.
Sennheiser HD620s
The Sennheiser HD620s offers a sound profile similar to the other models in the 600 series but with a closed-back design, making it perfect for mixing in loud environments. It provides a flat sound with a bit more bass than the HD600, closely aligning with the Harman curve. The 2024 model features upgraded comfort with a wider headband, ensuring long sessions are more bearable. Its detachable cable design and Sennheiser’s excellent quality control make it an excellent tool for monitoring and mixing live sound.
Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro X LE
The Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro X LE retains the classic sound of the DT770 but with significant enhancements. The detachable cable increases durability, while the bump in high-mids and low highs provides detailed sound that fans of the DT770 are used to. This headphone excels in sound isolation and accurate soundstage, making it perfect for pinpointing sounds and creating a balanced mix. The 48-ohm design means it’s easy to drive with almost any device, making it versatile for various mixing environments.
Audeze LCD-X
The Audeze LCD-X offers a unique mixing experience with extra bass and a 1.5 kHz push, providing a somewhat flat sound with more bass extension. This headphone is great for EQing modern tracks and balancing a mix. Its durable metal design, ultra-plush earpads, and huge 106mm drivers make it easy to hear through the soundscape with discernible holographic features. The 2024 revision reduces the scoop in the treble frequencies and using an amp still brings out its full potential. Despite its weight, the LCD-X is comfortable for extended listening sessions and the 2024 it’s lighter than previous versions.
Sennheiser HD600
The Sennheiser HD600 remains a standard mixing tool, known for its super flat sound with a slight midrange bump. Its focused sound lets you get the most out of most tracks without impacting the flatness of the sound signature. With a 300-ohm resistance, you’ll need an amp to use these, but once driven, you get superb clarity and revealing bass. This professional tool is perfect for those seeking one of the flattest headphones in production. Hand-assembled with a 2-year warranty, the HD600 is lightweight and excellent for engineers on a budget. Its cable is easily replaceable, and most parts are swappable due to its long-standing presence in the market.
Hifiman HE1000 Stealth
The Hifiman HE1000 Stealth offers a relatively flat response with added growl in the high bass/low mids and well-tuned treble. The balanced, analytical treble is non-fatiguing, and the dynamic mids provide excellent vocal detail. With a headband design similar to the Susvara, the HE1000 Stealth is super comfortable and fits almost all head shapes. Although Hifiman had quality control issues four years ago, they have since produced some of the most reliable headphones on the market. Paired with an amp, these headphones deliver a full range frequency response, allowing you to hear detailed performances and transient sounds clearly.
Conclusion
Choosing the right mixing headphones can make all the difference in your music production. Each of these headphones offers unique features and sound profiles, so you can find the perfect fit for your needs. Whether you prioritize comfort, sound isolation, or detailed accuracy, these headphones are the best options for mixing in 2024.
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