Top Headphones Guitar Amp

Top 5 Best Headphones for Guitar Amp [2019]

If you are a guitar buff, I don’t even have to tell you what it feels like connecting the guitar to a huge Marshall amp, cranking up the speakers and letting your power chords roar. But let’s face it; we all have that lousy neighbour who wastes no time in calling the cops on you, restraining that rebellious guitar rage that has pent up inside you.

We don’t want the police to hassle you and to avoid any potential ruckus, the best solution is to get yourself a set of high quality practice headphones for your guitar amp. There are a myriad of factors to consider when making this important decision, mainly because the process is significantly different compared to purchasing headphones for listening to run-of-the-mill MP3 music.

For audiophiles headphones are as important as a pair of pretty shoes to most women, may be more important. However, to others they seem pretty similar.

But like shoes there are thousands of varieties of headphones, and each pair is equipped and designed to deal with different conditions.

This is the reason why we have compiled a list of the best headphones for guitar amp practice, but before we dive into that list we have to get a few things out of the way, so just be patient.

Why do you require a specialized pair of headphones for your guitar amp in the first place?

My answer is plain and simple: to shred your guitar and do it loudly, which is a dream for most guitar players.My answer is plain and simple: to shred your guitar and do it loudly, which is a dream for most guitar players.

When you have the best pair of guitar amp headphones, you can jam until the daylight appears, without pissing off a single soul (remember that lousy neighbor).

Although there are a huge number of headphones out there, we know as a guitar player you have unique needs. You preferably want to have marathon practice sessions in a quiet environment.

Over the last couple of months our team has listened through more pair of headphones than we can count; so you can trust us. But to be honest, only a few have left their mark on us.

As music is an integral part of your life and you will be spending countless hours using and practicing with your headphones, it is crucial you get expert advice. We will first discuss the criteria for choosing the best headphones for guitar amp practice and then reveal our top 5 picks. So hang tight!

Best Guitar Amp Practice Headphones Criteria

There are a couple of key things that are important to keep in mind when purchasing a good pair of guitar amp headphones. We know that selecting the best headphones is a highly subjective process, but it is advisable to consider the following criteria:

Does Comfort Really Matter?

Ever had the terrible experience of sitting on a hard or uncomfortable surface for such a long time your backside practically went numb? I have been a victim too. An uncomfortable headphone can do something very similar to your ears.

Comfort must never be overlooked, especially for guitar amp headphones as practice sessions can be tediously long. You may end up getting a pair of headphones having nearly all the qualities of an ideal headphone, but if it is not comfortable it is as good as useless. 

On the other hand, a comfortable guitar amp headphone will fit your ears well and have plenty of cushioning which will enable you to easily wear them for hours on end without any discomfort or fatigu.

What Should the Impedance be?

Impedance is the power required for the headphones to work, it is measured in ohms.

A pair of headphone with low impedance level (lower than 25 ohms) will usually work well when paired with devices that do not have strong amplification like MP3 players, smartphones and similar portable devices.

These headphones typically run the risk of blowouts when paired with more powerful amps.

On the other hand, high impedance headphones (25 ohms and above) deliver a high audio level but use more power. These headphones are insulated from blowouts and are better at resisting sonic abuse.

Determine your amp’s ohm output first, but anything in the range of 25 to 80 ohms is compatible with a majority of amps and can still be used with portable audio devices.

Headphones with higher ohms are good at reducing white noise and offer a richer and more vibrant listening experience.

What should be the Actual of the Jack?

Headphone jacks come in 2 sizes, one is eighth inch and the other is quarter inch. The former is 3 mm, which is a jack size that will be compatible with your MP3 player, PC or laptop and smartphones. A quarter inch jack which is 6.35 mm is typically reserved for instruments such as guitar cables.

The good news is that a majority of headphones for guitar amp practice have an eighth-inch jack that has an adapter that converts it into a quarter inch jack, giving you the luxury of using the headphone on a wide range of devices.

What is the Frequency and Balance?

Signals emitted by a guitar are very different compared to signals coming from an MP3 device. If your guitar amp is blaring at maximum volume, an inappropriate type of headphone can crackle terribly and cause noise distortion.

To avoid this embarrassing situation go for a durable, well-constructed headphone made by a reputable brand with a frequency ranging from 20 Hz to 20 KHz. 

Be rest assured that this frequency range will cover all of the human listening spectra and a higher frequency response will not necessarily lead to better sound quality.

This is because bass level of less than 20 Hz is more likely to be felt than heard, while treble in excess of 20 KHz is barely audible.

Best Headphones for Guitar Amp Practice Reviews

1. Sony MDRV6 Studio Monitor Headphones Review

Sony MDRV6 is a very popular headphone and it is made by Sony, a company, which is well-known for its headphone making capability. This pair of headphones has been around for a very long time which seems like eternity and you may think that factor works against it, but these headphones do very little wrong despite their age. The pair is well -constructed and rugged which makes it very durable. It has very soft cushions and will feel very comfortable on your ears, even if your guitar sessions last for hours. The headphone is also good at isolating external noise which is important for a guitar player.

The pair is a tad less portable compared to ATH-M50x but it comes with a 10 feet cord which is handier than you may initially think. These headphones have a unique sound signature along with great sound quality which never fails to impress. The best part is that these headphones sound very accurate without appearing too sterile or cold. Experts think that they are a very good match to use with guitar sonic because their treble response is incredible. The brand is also quite cheap and is an excellent budget friendly choice.

Sony MDRV6 Features

  • Has 40 mm drivers and neodymium magnets for powerful and detailed sound
  • Has an over-ear design that gives superior comfort and reduction of outside noises
  • Has a 10 feet oxygen free copper cord along with 3.5 mm plug
  • Has  a copper-clad aluminum coil wire for enhanced power handling
  • Incredible frequency range of 5 Hz to 30 KHz

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2. Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro Review

Beyerdynamic DT770 is an excellent pair of closed-back and rugged headphones that have the uncanny knack of enduring lots of physical and sonic punishment. They are German-made, so you can expect that they are made from durable materials, and more importantly all the parts are replaceable so you won’t have to buy a new pair any time soon. They are great at noise cancellation, leak less sound and provide a richer listening experience because they let in less external noise.

Beyerdynamic DT770  is also immensely comfortable. Their ear cups are well cushioned and it has a nicely-padded headband which distributes weight evenly and alleviates pain and discomfort that accompanies when they are worn for long practice hours. However, their best feature is the generation of realistic and clear sound. You know that realistic sound is the first priority when purchasing headphones for guitar practice.

Beyerdynamic DT770 Features

  • They have a closed, diffuse-field systems bass reflex technology that enhances your bass response
  • They are excellent at reproducing mid-range and clinically high frequencies
  • They have a rugged and robust headband design
  • Soft and smooth ear cushions and single-sided cable
  • Have a gold-plated 3.5 mm jack plug and also a 6.35 mm adapter
  • Come with a 2 year warranty when bought from a Beyerdynamic dealer

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3. AKG K44 Headphones Review

If you are looking for an affordable option for your guitar amp practice sessions, AKG K44 is one of the most affordable pair of headphones you can purchase and still listen to top-quality sound. The pair can be bought for under low price and delivers an astonishingly rich sonic specter and very good durability.

Although there are minor issues with overloaded bass frequencies, these headphones do offer a very meaty middle section along with a strong and incredible treble range. We think that this is more than good enough for practice headphones especially given their low price tag. With respect to volume handling, there are good at delivering sonic spikes when you crank them up.

Overall, this product gets the job done and would not disappoint you. You will hear amazing sound quality that will render a realistic and accurate image of your guitar performance, which is crucial, as lousy sound can severely mess up your approach and cripple you once you decide to switch to live gigs or band rehearsals.

AKG K44 Features

  • They have a circumaural and semi-closed design
  • They have a self-adjusting headband which fill fit snugly over your head
  • Equipped with Patented Varimotion speakers
  • They have Leatherette ear pads  which provide great comfort

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4. Sennheiser HD 598 Review

In terms of comfort, Sennheiser HD 598 is one of the best headphones on our list. They are probably amongst the best looking headphones in their price range. They have a leatherette headband and velour enclosed ear cups and are cushioned in all the right places for long usage.

They render a very realistic in-room experience along with an open soundstage, which makes this pair a match made in heaven for guitar players.  Sennheiser HD 598 boasts a wide and dynamic frequency ranging from 12 Hz to 38.5 KHz, which will enable you to pick every sound your guitar produces.

Sennheiser HD 598 Features

  • Audiophile-grade over-ear, premium and sleek, open-back headphones
  • Have an impedance of 50 Ohms
  • 2 cable options along with 3.5mm adapter
  • 2 year warranty when bought from a Sennheiser dealer

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5. Philips X2/27 Fidelio Premium Headphones Review

Philips X2/27 Fidelio is an excellent pair of headphones which are just right for your guitar practice sessions.  You would be blown away by their ridiculously wide ranging frequency of 5 Hz to 40 KHz and you will still listen to crisp and precise sound which is natural and true. You can immerse yourself in the pristine details of your guitar sound with this pair.

They have an open-backed design which is extremely comfortable to wear, and have an excellent and dynamic sound quality. This pair of headphones also comes with a tangle-free cord.

Philips X2/27 Features

  • They are equipped with powerful 50 mm neodymium drivers which offer wide yet precise range
  • They have an acoustic open-back design for pristine audio fidelity
  • They feature double-layered ear shells which are designed for sound precision
  • They have a dedicated cable which offers ease

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Best Cheap AMP Headphones

Best Cheap Headphone Amp Under $100 [2019]

Modern headphones are designed to get the very best of audio performance from your music player or smartphone and are thus tailored towards the demands that MP3 playback involves and will improve performance more than a conventional pair of headphones.

Headphone amplifiers are not something that is found so commonly in most gadget stores. They are made especially for music enthusiasts, who are willing to invest in high-quality music.

They are small audio amplifiers, designed for headphones and not speakers that allow for higher volumes, better current capacity, high input impedance, low output impedance, and a greater range of output voltages. 

Generally, headphones amplifiers are found embedded in electronic devices that have a headphones jack, like integrated amps, TVs, and portable music players. 

There are a number of headphone amplifiers available on the market today:

  • Studio Headphone Amps: These were the first ever headphone amplifiers to come on the market. They are typically combined with studio headphones and are AC powered. Some also run on batteries.
  • Tube Headphone Amps: Tube headphone amplifiers use one or more vacuum tubes to improve the signal. Due to their unusual design, they are quite popular.
  • Portable headphone amps: These headphone amplifiers are powered by batteries and best suited for traveling.
  • Desktop Headphone Amplifiers: while the name may suggest computer use, these headphone amps can be used with home theater systems, stereo systems, and also computers.

Headphone Amplifier Buying Guide

When buying a headphone amplifier, you will need to pay special attention to the following factors:

What is Headphone Impedance?

Headphone impedance figures are generally provided in the user manual or on the packaging of the headphones.

There should also be a conforming figure for an amp as well as and both these figures are listed in a value of ohms.

The best way to find a pairing on the basis of impedance is to pair a headphone that comes with at least 10 times the ohm value of the amp being used.

For instance, a 3000-ohm headphone would pair best with a 30-ohm amp.

What is the Ideal Headphone Sensitivity?

The second most important factor is headphone sensitivity, which will help you determine if your earphones or headphones will actually benefit from amping. Sensitivity ratings are typically shown as decibels (DB) levels per Milliwatts (mW) of supplied power.

In general, anything over 100 decibels at 1mW will be driven adequately to full volume without the need for an external amplifier.

It is also a good idea to ask yourself:

How Will You Use The Headphone Amplifier?

It is important to consider how you intend on using the amplifier; if you need something that will be best for listening on-the-go, or if you want something that will add to fixed desktop arrangement. For on-the-go listening, portable amps are the way to go and for a desktop setup, desktop headphones amps work best.

Do You Want A Headphone Amp Only, Or An Amp Combined With A Digital-To-Analogue Convertor?

Headphone amps are only responsible for processing analog audio signals, but in today’s advanced technological era, streaming services and digital music, there is another important component in audio setups, known as DAC or digital to analog converter.

DACs are responsible for taking a digital music file and convert it into an analog music signal.

Just like with amps, the DAC quality in non-audio specific devices such as PCs, laptops, tablets, phones, is a low priority for producers. 

For this reason, it is best to pair headphone amps with dedicated, quality DAC chips to provide a full audio processing solution for enhanced sound quality.

Other important factors to consider

What is Digital Sound Processing (DSP)?

DSP allows headphone amps to deliver a surround sound experience using only standard headphones. An example of DSP is Dolby headphone format. DSP allows for the signal to be improved and modified.

How many Number of Channels does it Offer?

Another thing to look for in a headphone amplifier is the number of channels it offers.

Headphone amps typically come with 1 to 8 channels. More channels are better as they deliver multiple signal distribution options for keeping the flexibility in check.

Every channel arranges individual stereo line distribution in a one-rack package.

What is the Signal-to-Noise Rating?

The signal-to-noise rating is a measurement of the headphone amp’s noise in comparison with its original source, which is measured in decibels.

The higher the ratio, the less noise compared to the signal. This is to keep that strange noise you have to bear when listening to your favorite music, a sort of white noise.

An optimal signal to noise rating means you will not have to worry about this little annoyance anymore.

What is Root-mean-squared (RMS) Power?

The Root-mean-squared power is the extent of real power that is delivered to the load. The amount shows how loud the headphones will get at their peak.

Loudspeaker Amplifier/Pre-Amplifier

This factor allows for the headphone amps to multifunction as either a loud amplifier or a pre-amplifier.  A pre-amp readies a small amount of electrical signal for additional processing or amplification and decreases interruption. While offering the headphone amp added flexibility, this option is also rather expensive.

How to choose?

A basic amplifier simply substantiates the strength of audio from the source and that alone fills in the gaps. However, exemplary headphones generate a precise reproduction, making the most of the audio they receive. Here we will be looking at the best headphone amplifiers under $100. You can expect these sets to offer the following:

  • Small size – A lot of the headphones amplifiers under $100 are small and thus, extremely portable. They can be clipped easily wound.
  • Audio amplification – If you own a pair of headphones that are not as loud or powerful-sounding as you would like them to be then a headphone amp can make your life easier. However, it is important to keep in mind that bad audio quality will not be miraculously transformed because headphone amps will function to improve the sound. So, if your headphones are really bad, you can’t expect a lot from an amp.
  • Decrease distortion– A lot of headphones get sibilant at high volumes, which is why headphone amps with an SNR are important to thoroughly reduce the distortion and give you a crispy clear audio output. This quality is best tested at loud volumes since normal volumes are generally protected from alteration in headphones too.
  • Impedance– These under $100 headphones support a wide array of headphone impedance. This particular factor is crucial in deciding which set of headphones these amplifiers can drive. Broader the range, the greater number of headphones these amplifiers can boost.

Best Cheap Headphone Amp Under $100 – Our Top Favorites!

1. Creative Sound Blaster E1 Portable Headphone Amp

Creative is a well-known brand when it comes to audio products, and the Creative Sound Blaster E1 Portable Headphone Amplifier is their best product in this category. It may come off as very compact, but don’t get fooled by its size because the powerful hardware inside is what counts.

It also comes with a battery life of 25 hours and supports 600 ohms of amplification. Furthermore, it also features an inbuilt mic, which can be used to take/end calls. For added user convenience, the amp also comes with a shirt clip at the back and can be easily taken anywhere since it weighs only 25 g.

The company also provided a USB cable and Orange Stereo inside the box, which is a quick attention grabber. The best part is, you can use the E1 as a DAC and connect it to your desktop as an external sound card.

Creative Sound Blaster E1 Features

  1. Powerful 600-ohm headphone amp that supports high-quality performance for a studio-level music listening experience.
  2. 106 decibels SNR output that is greatly superior in reliability to the motherboard, USB, regular smart device output, and laptop.
  3. Crystal voice brings advanced technologies that are particularly designed to offer the audio fidelity on your Mac and PC.
  4. High-quality powered headphone splitter allows you to share music with a friend without compromising the quality.
  5. Lithium battery that can give up to 25 hours of audio playback
  6. Mono mic allows users to get connected through calls and offers clear voice communications for Skype calls and games on Macs and PCs.

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2. FiiO A1 Review

This headphone amp is a popular favorite, especially because it offers high-quality sound at a very low price. It is lightweight, compact and compatible with any audio device with a 3.5 mm cable. It features EQ control, which allows you to add a hint of bass boost if you feel like it.

Even though the claimed battery life is 10 hours, a lot of users reported that the headphone amp worked for approximately 5 hours with a full charge. The transparent clip is also ideal for fitting the device on to clothes while traveling; otherwise, it also fits perfectly in your pocket.

If you are on a budget ad are only looking for audio amplification, then FiiO A1 is your best bet.

FiiO A1 Features

  1. Designed for low sensitivity and high impedance headphones
  2. Compact, sleek and compact, with a removable clip for added convenience.
  3. Low distortion and noise, and advanced amplifier circuit with enhanced dynamics
  4. EQ with 2-level bass boost and volume control

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3. Topping NX2 Headphone Amp

The Topping NX2 Headphone Amp is a very sleek amplifier that also works as a DAC having a length of 11 cm. It also provides a total music distortion of 0.0001% at 32 ohms and comes with a battery life of 100 hours thanks to its built-in mAh battery.

It is due to the battery that the NX2 is so big and not the best-looking headphone amplifier out in the market since it maintains that industrial design, which is what make it appear bigger than your average amplifier headphones. The amp supports up to 300 ohms, which is perfect. Even though it does not come with features such as a built-in microphone or dual headphones support, it certainly delivers what it promises.

Topping also added five Velcro pieces and 2 two silicone pieces so users can attach it behind their smartphones.

Topping NX2 Features

  1. Industrial-level headphone amplifier design
  2. Excellent amplification
  3. 300 ohms impedance

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4. Bravo V2 Class A 12AU7 Tube Multi-Hybrid Headphone Amp

This is not your regular headphone amp; the Bravo Audio V2 Class A 12AU7 is a tube amplifier, which means it offers a higher music distortion and sounds less tinny.

In addition to that, it looks super cool when sitting on the desktop and will surely fetch you some compliments. The quality of sound is also incredible and it powers up any headphones up to 600 ohms.

You also have the option to replace the stock tube if you wish to.

Bravo V2 Class A Features

  1. Comes with a Shuguang 12AU7 tube
  2. Gains control with Japanese ALPS potentiometer
  3. RCA stereo inputs and parallel 3.5 mm

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5. Creative Sound Blaster E3 Portable DAC Headphone Amp with NFC and Bluetooth

The E3 Portable Headphone Amplifier brings users solid technology, with many impressive features. To start off, it gives Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in mic, and awesome impedance support.

In addition to that, the battery life can last up to 24 hours, which makes it perfect for traveling. You have also got around 600 ohms which are sufficient for most headphone pairs. The Creative Sound Blaster E3 is a great, portable option at a decent price.

Creative Sound Blaster E3 Features

  1. High-quality amplification for headphones with 112 decibels DAC and approximately ohm
  2. You can connect the amp to your device via USB for amazingly high streaming quality
  3. Built-in mic, dual-headphone-out, line in
  4. Can be easily connected to tablets or smartphones via Bluetooth
  5. Around eight hours of music streaming or seventeen hours of analog music playback

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Best Most Durable Headphones

Best Most Durable Headphones Guide [2019]

Buying headphones can be quite a challenging experience because there is so much to look at before buying one. From their internal components to external looks, you have to make your choice very carefully.

If you are looking specifically for the most durable headphones on the market, you have started on the right track. Among many other things that really annoy people about their headphones, flimsy built and non-durability are prominent ones.

So what are the different components of a pair of headphones that you have to get a close look at to see if the headphones are really durable? Here are a few things to check.

What Kind of Cord Should You Pick?

If you are buying headphones with cords, you have to see the cord first to know how durable it is. Cords can be annoying at times, but they are much better in giving you the audio quality that cordless headphones can’t, so sometimes they are the only choice you have.

Many manufacturers have now started make cords that look like ropes i.e. they are made of canvas. It is virtually impossible to break those cords even if you tug them really hard accidentally. Other important thing to see in a cord is its thickness.

What to Check in the Ear Cups?

The second most important component of a pair of headphones to see its strength and durability is the ear cups. You have to analyze the ear cups to see how they are attached to the headband.

If the attachment is not strong and the ear cups feel shaky on the headband, it’s a bad sign.

If you are going for swiveling ear cups, feel the strength of the joints and how durable they seem. 

Another important thing to look at is how the cushions are attached to the ear cups.

If the attachment seems unfinished and you notice gaps between the material of the ear cup and the cushion, this is a telltale sign of a badly built pair of headphones.

What Makes a Headband Durable?

This is the most important part of any pair of headphones. When you are looking for most durable headphones, ensure you check the headband carefully.

First, you want some material for headband that does not bend easily. Sometimes you see headbands made of metal, but the metal is so thin that it could bend easily.

If the headband is made of plastic, it should not be so hard that it breaks into pieces at one fall. Double tubes for plastic headbands prove to be great in terms of durability.

How to Know a Microphone’s Durability?

Most people do not pay much attention to the microphone attached to their headphones, but you should. When you need a microphone, you need it.

Not to mention, if the microphone is attached with your headphone, you will have to take care of it. The most important thing to look at when analyzing the durability of microphone on a headphone is how securely it tucks away when you are not using it. 

Headphones made for gamers come with some really durable microphones. They are not only made from strong materials, but the microphone shaft is really thick to give it maximum sturdiness.

Now that you know how and which parts of your headphones you have to look at to see the durability of the overall headphones, here are some the most durable headphones for you to pick one from.

Best Durable Headphones Review

1. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones Review

As the name tells the story, these headphones are meant for those who use them for professional work. If you make music, upload videos on YouTube or review music albums, you need one of these. Right from the first look they send an impression of sturdy, strong and durable headphones. Durability has been made a part of these headphones in other ways too. For example, the audio cable on the headphones is detachable on both ends. This means a tug on the cable will only pull it out of the jack, not break it.

The ear cups are swiveling so you don’t have to stretch the headband when you want to listen to your favorite music track with a friend. The headband is fully cushioned with thick materials. The swiveling joints of the ear cups are also pretty thick so they can take some abuse. Here are some notable features of Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones.

Prominent Features

  • They have a sturdy built with strong and thick materials.
  • Ear cups swivel to make them perfect for music makers and DJs.
  • Detachable audio cord provides safety against accidental pulls on the cord and easy storage for portability.
  • They have big 45mm drivers for more powerful sound.
  • 35ohm impedance means they can run on a wide range of amplifiers and devices.
  • Despite their sturdy build, they are still pretty lightweight at just 9.9oz.

The price for these headphones can vary based on the color you want. The white pair is more expensive than the black one and there is no doubt that the white one looks much cooler and completely out of this world.

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2. V-MODA Crossfade M-100 Metal Headphones Review

If you are tired of throwing away your headphones after every few months – you have to consider a more durable option. The V-MODA Crossfade M-100 metal headphones are just the right thing for you. These headphones are also known for their noise cancelation and isolation capabilities. The thing that makes these headphones one of the best on the market is how they have been tuned by skilled audio engineers in the industry. If you are an audiophile and have been looking for sturdy and high-quality sounding headphones, get your hands on this one – it is a gem.

More than 40% DJs around the world have made these headphones their preferred choice while performing live on stage. They have been built in such a way that they are equally perfect for audiophiles, DJs and even gamers.

V-MODA Crossfade M-100 Features

  • The 50mm dual diaphragm is something you rarely get on any other headphones.
  • You could safely call them the most durable headphones because they are made of metal – no plastic here.
  • They have this CLIQFOLD design that allows you to store them in a very small space or the carrying case that comes with them.
  • The components of these headphones are made of metal, but the whole unit still weighs only 280 grams.
  • They have a 32ohms impedance so play them as loud and as big of a device as you want because they will not blow out.
  • Their frequency response ranges at the bottom at 5 Hz to the peak at 30,000 Hz.
  • It has a strong STEELFLEX headband covered with vegan leather, and a frame that’s also made of steel.
  • Whether you are attached audio cables or a microphone to these headphones, you can do so with detachable cable options.

The hexagonal shape of the ear cups makes them look really unique. V-MODA does a great job at even making them look solid by putting those screws on top of the ear cups.

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3. RHA MA750 Noise Isolating Premium In-Ear Headphones Review

In-ear headphones came into the world and became popular in no time. This is because they are able to give you high quality sound with convenience that no other headphones can. They are small in size, fit perfectly in your ears and can be stronger and more durable than even the bulkiest headphones out there. The RHA MA750 premium in-ear headphones are a good example of how in-ear headphones can be durable too. As simple as they look, they get closest to your eardrums and produce sound quality that audiophiles crave. What makes these headphones really durable is that their components are made of stainless steel.

The drivers inside these headphones are made with hands. Not to mention, noise cancelation and isolation is not even a big deal for in-ear headphones. These headphones come with 6 different sets of tips so you can pick the one that best suit your ear tube size and cancel the noise.

RHA MA750 Features

  • The components of the headphones made from 303F grade stainless steel.
  • Dynamic drivers in the earpieces have been made with hands to deliver the highest quality of sound and performance.
  • Over-ear cable design allows you to wear the headphones while the cable passes from behind your ear. This makes your headphones fit perfectly on your ears when you are running or moving.
  • There is a premium looking carrying case that comes with these headphones so you never get the cables tangled as you travel with them in your pocket.

Even the cables used with these headphones contain oxygen-free copper cores so ensure that only the highest quality sounds touch your eardrums.

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4. Cowin E-7 Active Noise Canceling Wireless Headphones Review

These headphones look beautiful and they are one of the best you can get your hands on when it comes to noise cancellation. Just like all other modern wireless and Bluetooth headphones, they also have the option for you to plug in your cable with 3.5mm headphone jack. This option ensures you keep listening to your favorite music even when the battery on your headphones is about to die.

The good thing about Cowin E-7 active noise-cancelling wireless headphones is that their design is pretty seamless. These types of designs are always really durable and since they are compactly joined with each other, accidental falls really don’t make a big difference on their sturdiness.

There is a lot that can be said about these headphones.

Cowin E-7 Features

  • They provide great noise reduction, but have a switch on them to turn off noise cancellation when you don’t feel like it.
  • Despite the compact design they have the big 40mm drivers to deliver high quality sound to your ears.
  • The ear cups swivel so you can listen to only one side of the headphone without even wearing it.
  • Protein cushioning on the ear cups and headband makes these headphones really comfortable. You could wear them for the whole day without feeling any discomfort.
  • The chromed components add style to these headphones.
  • The battery is laudable on these headphones as it lasts you 30 hours, so you can listen to your favorite music or watch movies no matter how long your flight schedule is.
  • When you feel that your battery is about to die, you could just grab the cable with 3.5mm connector that comes with it to keep listening to the high quality sounds that come from these headphones.
  • They offer high impedance at 32ohms so you can plug them into big amplifiers without fearing that they will blow out like cheap headphones do.
  • They even come with a compact carrying case so carrying them with you is not cumbersome at all.

It won’t be wrong to say that these headphones have a very minimalistic design and yet it comes out to be one of the coolest looking designs on the market. When you want durability from your headphones along with top notch noise cancelation features, these are the ones you have to pick.

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Most Durable Headphones Summary

When you are looking for the most durable headphones, you could pick any of these without thinking too much about it. The best thing about these headphones is that not only are they durable, but they look great too.

Oftentimes, durability and sturdiness is a compromise on the looks of products, but that’s not the case here. Their prices might seem a bit high at first, but you will end up spending more than that on other headphones as you will have to keep on buying them over and over.

Lastly, the sound quality and clarity for these headphones is on a professional level.

Top Podcast Headphones

Best Podcast Headphones Reviews [2019]

Podcasts have surged in popularity over the last few years. According to a recent report by Wondery (an audio network) and comScore, nearly 20% of adults in the United States between the age of 18 and 49 listen to podcasts at least once a month. Podcast popularity reached unprecedented levels with the release of genre-defining podcast called Serial and since its release the industry has not looked back. 

So are you a podcast fan? I definitely am. Or you may be a podcast producer. If you are, then you must have a simple question:

Do I need expensive or fancy headphones for making the most of my podcast listening or recording experience?

You will be glad to know that the answer to that question is no. However, that does not mean that any outdated or old pair will do the job. A great pair of headphones can make a substantial difference to your podcast listening experience.

It is important to keep in mind that best podcast headphones combine realistic sound with a comfortable fit that you can wear for hours at a reasonable price. Shopping for podcast headphones is different compared to shopping for regular headphones. This is because you will be listening mostly to spoken voice instead of music and it is probable that you will be wearing them for longer time periods hopefully in a quiet room.

There are 3 main types of podcast: 

  • Interview shows (solo monologue or co-hosted)
  • Documentary style
  • Audio drama.

Interview shows are generally produced in mono, which means the sound you hear is almost the same in both ears. This audio tends to be less complex, making it easier to set a consistent volume level. A mono show that is entirely composed of spoken words allows the producer to set much lower bitrates.

On the other hand, documentary or audio drama-style shows are more complex. They use a combination of sound effects, music and ambience and are produced in stereo, which means that you will be able to hear subtle differences between what you hear in each ear.

These sound features play a part in determining which headphones are good for podcasts.

Best Podcast Headphones Criteria

There are a couple of key things that are important to keep in mind when purchasing a good pair of podcast headphones. We know that selecting the best headphones is a highly subjective process, but it is advisable to consider the following criteria:

What is their Accuracy (Frequency Response)?

Sound reproduction is the most important consideration when choosing podcast headphones. It is vital that the recorded sound mirrors what you hear. A majority of consumer headphones are developed with music listening in mind and tend to enhance certain frequencies.

While this makes music listening great, a more accurate audio reproduction is required in the case of podcasts. This phenomenon is called flat frequency response. Professional headphones labeled monitor or studio typically do a good job at maintaining this flat frequency response.

Are they Comfortable?

This factor must never be overlooked, especially for podcast headphones. You may end up getting a pair having nearly all the qualities of an ideal headphone, but if it is not comfortable it is as good as useless.

When buying podcasting headphones ensure they are comfortable not just on your ears, but also on your head.

Podcast producers usually spend marathon sessions recording and editing their podcasts, while avid listeners devour many episodes in one go.

Therefore, comfortable podcast headphones are a must.

What’s a Sound Leak?

Sound leakage from your headphones can pose recording problems or simple annoyances for nearby people.

In case you record solo, sound leakage would only be problematic when you are simultaneously playing and recording sounds.

In other cases, any minor sound leak from a professional podcast headphone will be so quiet that it will not trigger the risk of feedback loop.

However, sound leak could turn out to be a major concern if you are recording with co-hosts, whether, in the studio or remotely and especially if you produce a double-ender.

The other person’s voice leak may creep into your audio track and in case the real audio is not in perfect alignment, this will produce a subtle echo or may be something more mystic.

How good is the Sound Isolation?

In contrast to sound leaking out of your headphones, sound isolation means how well your headphones perform in terms of blocking noise coming into your ears.

Although the ideal situation may be to keep your door closed and block outside sounds during your recording and editing sessions, this will not be practical in all situations (especially if your computer is noisy).

This is where a good podcast headphone comes in handy as it isolates different sounds and helps you in figure out whether the noise you are hearing (like the noise of an overhead fan) is in your recording or not.

For podcasting, we highly recommend avoiding active noise cancellation. This will result in the headphone capturing external sounds, inverting your sound, which will lead to sound cancellation, which can do strange things with your co-hosts’ audio.

The Best Podcast Headphones – Our Top 5 Picks

1. Audio-Technica ATH-M70x Review

Audio-Technica makes some of the finest sounding headphones and Audio-Technica ATH-M70x is the cream of the crop for podcasting purposes. These are a pair of drier and thinner sounding headphones that have a flat balance. Therefore, they are the best contenders for getting you closer to hearing your own voice precisely the way it sounds compared to any other headphone brand on the market.

These headphones are also quite comfortable which makes them a good choice to wear for long periods of time. They have large cups that go over your ears instead of pressing on them. In comparison to other models, they are nice and flexible especially built with metal expanders to fit almost any head size. In addition, each cup can swivel a complete 90 degrees, which enables 1 ear listening. You can also choose from 3 chord options (1.5 m, 3 m and 3 m coiled), which means the chord will not hamper your podcasting experience.

Audio-Technica ATH-M70x renders an exceptionally clean, ultra-detailed listen that is impeccable for podcast editing where your priority is to ensure the absolute best sound possible. These are highly recommended for podcasting purposes.

Audio-Technica ATH-M70x Features

  • It is an M-Series flagship model, perfected for exceptionally accurate sound reproduction and craftily designed using rare metal components that ensure durability
  • Has a set of 45 mm large-aperture drivers equipped with copper-clad aluminum wire coils
  • They have an extensive response, which precisely reproduces extremely high and low frequencies while maintaining ideal balance
  • Circumaural design contour wraps around your ears for impeccable sound isolation in noisy environments
  • Has 90-degree swiveling ear cups that enable one-ear and easy monitoring

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2. Sony MDR7506 Review

Sony MDR7506 is an excellent pair of headphones, which is extensively used and recommended by numerous well-known podcasters in the industry like Cliff Ravenscraft. These headphones produce astounding sound quality and are much better than other brands that cost twice as much. They have a perfect tonal balance, which enables you to listen to numerous nuances in your voice recording and present your voice precisely as it sounds.

They do a better job of detecting any imperfections and flaws in your recordings compared to other headphones. They are also comfortable when compared with other brands in the same price range and have a cup size that fits well on most ears. However, in case you have large ears you may notice they hug your ears a little bit, which can be a tad uncomfortable.

Sony MDR7506 Features

  • Equipped with 40 mm drivers and neodymium magnets that produce detailed and powerful sound
  • Their closed-ear design is very comfortable and offers exceptional reduction of external noises
  • Includes a 0.25 inch adapter and a 9.8 foot gold-plated cord, which is not detachable
  • Easily folds up in a soft case, which is ideal for storage and travel
  • Have a frequency response ranging from 10 Hz to 20 Hz
  • These headphones are ruggedly constructed and have an effective and secure closed-ear design

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3. Grado SR80e Review

Grado SR80e is a pair of headphones that have an open-back design, which is very different compared to headphones we have listed above. Although the open-back design permits some sound leakage, it generally leads to exceptional sound quality when editing. They allow you to hear every little detail in your voice and come extremely close to the original sound of your voice which is immensely crucial for podcast producers.

The build of Grado SR80e may seem a little cheap. They are mostly made of plastic materials and have no padding on the headband. Instead of the regular cups they feature removable foam covers. Although these headphones are comfortable to wear, using them for extended periods of time can make your ears a little hot at times. Overall, this headphone brand has an excellent sound quality and is a good choice for podcasters.

Grado SR80e Features

  • Have an upgraded driver design
  • Equipped with large ear cushions which make listening a comfortable experience
  • Have an adjustable and soft vinyl headband which enhance the listening experience
  • Produce superb sound quality
  • Come with a mini stereo plug and a 0.25 inch adaptor

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4. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Review

For ensuring variability, we have included Audio-Technica ATH-M50x on this list. It is ideal for those of you who do not want to pay the higher price tag of the newer Audio-Technica ATH-M70x. We have tested this pair of headphones and they are phenomenal. Their flat balance enables you to get very close to literally listening to your own voice precisely and also has the capability to detect impurities in your recording.

They have large cups that easily cover most ears and are very soft in texture. They are an exceptionally comfortable pair of headphones that can be worn consecutively for hours. Again you can also choose from 3 chord options (1.5m, 3m and 4m coiled), which means the chord will not hamper your podcasting experience. The shorter chord is ideal when going portable (like on an airplane), while the longer chord is better when you are using them on a computer.

While they may not be as good as their more recent counterparts, they come very close and if your budget is restricted to a little high, they may just be the ideal headphones for your podcasting needs.

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Features

  • Critically acclaimed in terms of their sonic performance by pro audio reviewers and top audio engineers
  • Has a set of 45 mm large-aperture drivers equipped with copper-clad aluminum wire coils
  • Offer superb quality using an extensive frequency range with accurate and deep bass response
  • Circumaural design contour wraps around your ears for impeccable sound isolation in noisy environments
  • Has 90-degree swiveling ear cups that enable one-ear and easy monitoring

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5. Beyerdynamic Custom One Pro Plus Review

Beyerdynamic Custom One Pro Plus Review
Beyerdynamic Custom One Pro Plus Review

These headphones have managed to attract significant attention because they can be easily customized in terms of both sound and look. They have an excellent feature, which is a port on both ears – the ports allow you to adjust base levels according to your preferences which tune these headphones for just the perfect podcast experience.

Their build quality is also very good making them robust and dependable and they are extremely comfortable. The ear pads are soft, breathable and large which means you are less likely to get hot sweaty ears.

Beyerdynamic Custom One Pro Features

  • Have a closed design that includes a customizable sound slider
  • Their style is also customizable and you can easily change color of the ear pads, headband etc.
  • Come with a warranty of 2 years if purchased from an authorized beyerdynamic dealer.
  • Made in Germany.

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