Music is one of the most universal ways to communicate with others, and a great way to express yourself. It also has an amazing ability to bring people together in celebration or mourning. But what’s the best way for you to enjoy music? One option is vinyl records! The sound quality on a vinyl record can be vastly superior than that of digital tracks, making it worth investing in some high-quality headphones if you want your listening experience to be truly immersive. Here are 10 options – from affordable ones under $25, all the way up to audiophile-grade models that will run you well over $1000 – depending on how much money you’re willing or able spend on your new headphones.
Here is the top 10 list:
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Sony WH-1000XM4
- SENNHEISER HD 599 SE
- Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro
- Sony MDR7506
- Meze 99 Classics
- Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR
- SIVGA Phoenix
- Koss Porta Pro
- Pioneer SE-MS5T-T
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, a staple of the company’s best-selling M-Series line, is an affordable pair of over-ear headphones that delivers powerful audio performance. The M50x has a sleek but sturdy design that makes it comfortable and easy to use with all types of audio devices, including turntables and record players.
To connect the cans to a device, you will need a 3.5mm jack with an included 1/4″ adapter for use with the standard headphone jack on electric guitars or other instruments. The M50x has 53mm drivers and can deliver sound frequencies from 8Hz to 28kHz, plus it has a low impedance of 38 ohms so it’ll work well with almost any device you connect it to. The earcups can be swiveled and have a 90-degree rotating design, which makes these headphones perfect for DJ use or anyone who wants enhanced portability.
The ATH M50x comes with a one-year warranty, but if you want even more peace of mind than that, they also carry a great customer satisfaction record.
Sony WH-1000XM4
If you own a bluetooth turntable, Sony WH-1000XM4 is a great choice. It has Hi-Res Audio certification and supports LDAC, AAC, SBC and AptX audio streaming technologies. The WH-1000XM4 can also be used in wired mode via an adapter, making it versatile enough to use with a wide range of devices. Sony’s noise cancellation technology allows you to listen to your favorite tracks at low volumes so you won’t disturb those around you.
The WH-1000XM4 has a feature called Adaptive Sound Control, which lets you customize sound to your personal preferences. You can choose between five different modes for the headphones: ambient mode lets in outside noise so you stay aware of your surroundings, outdoor mode pumps up the bass and reduces mid-range frequencies, and three other modes let you adjust the sound to your liking. It’s also ideal for people who need a pair of headphones with noise cancellation because it has three levels of NC that allow you to choose just how much environmental sound is too much.
The WH-1000XM4 can last up to 30 hours on a single charge when used wirelessly and for up to 20 hours when it’s connected via USB.
SENNHEISER HD 599 SE
If you can’t decide between in-ear or on-ear headphones, the Sennheiser HD 598SR is a great compromise that will give you the best of both worlds. The model is equipped with over-ear, on-ear and in-ear headphone pads so you can choose how you want to wear them. It’s also equipped with a closed back system that allows for low bass sounds and excellent noise isolation.
The HD 599 SR comes equipped with two separate inputs: one 3.5mm jack for use with devices like record players, turntables, computers and more, and one 1/4″ jack for use with guitars, microphones, pre-amps and other instruments. It’s a comfortable pair of headphones that can be used for hours on end without causing the ear fatigue typically experienced by users of traditional over-ear headphones.
The HD 599 SR has a frequency response range from 18Hz to 23kHz, making it ideal for use with a wide range of music types and all your favorite turntable tracks.
They are designed to be durable and long lasting, plus they come with a two-year warranty in case anything does happen to go wrong.
Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro
DT 880 Pro is an over-ear headphone that delivers clear and transparent sound with a powerful bass which will never be overshadowed by muddy mid-range sounds. The headphones are comfortable to wear with soft earpads, adjustable headband, closed back design and light weight.
The DT 880 Pro comes equipped with two cables: one 3.5mm cable for listening to audio through speakers or using it with turntables, record players and other devices, and one 3.0m coiled detachable cable which can be used for free movement while still listening to your music without gettings tangled up in the wire. The phones also come with a 6.3 mm adapter in order to use them with dAPs or other devices with a 6.3 mm input jack.
They have a wide frequency response range of 12 Hz to 39 kHz, and are therefore also ideal for use with more modern music which has a lot of low-bass sounds. The manufacturer offers a two-year warranty on the product in case something does go wrong during that time period.
Sony MDR7506
Sony MDR7506 is a great choice if you want a pair of headphones that do not slip or slide while in use. The design of the product allows for a snug and comfortable fit that can be worn for hours on end without any discomfort.
It also amplifies sound effectively so audio sounds clear and crisp even at high volumes. So it’s a perfect choice for listening to your vinyl records.
Sony MDR7506 is equipped with self-adjusting headband systems that will conform to your head size regardless of the shape or size, making them super comfortable to use without causing any sort of discomfort like other similar products.
Meze 99 Classics
If you want not only the sound quality but also the looks of a pair of premium headphones then Meze 99 Classics are the way to go. They have an ergonomic shape that makes them very comfortable to use, while also providing excellent sound isolation, and come in four different colors: amber wood, walnut wood, rosewood and ebony.
They feature high quality drivers that deliver wide audio frequency range, and a style that stands out from all the other headphones currently on the market.
The 99 Classics offer superb sound quality with clear highs, detailed mid-range and powerful bass. And thanks to their open ear cup design, they are able to produce audiophile-level performance without any distortion at high volumes. MDR7506 has an impedance of 47 ohms and an efficiency rating of 98 dB/mW, making it an ideal choice for use with higher impedance devices (e.g. amplifiers) in order to avoid issues with frequency response.
Philips Audio Fidelio X2HR
The Philips Fidelio X2HR is a closed-ear design. This means that you get exceptional noise isolation, a high level of comfort and some really powerful sound reproduction capabilities. They are equipped with two 40mm drivers for their ultimate performance and pressure sensitivity to bass frequencies.
This pair of headphones delivers a frequency response range of 15 Hz to 25000 Hz, making it ideal for use with the vinyl records. It feels durable and well made so they should last you for quite some time without ever going faulty.
The only downside is that they are not wireless, which may be an inconvenience if you wanted your freedom in the house and you own a bluetooth turntable.
SIVGA Phoenix
I purchased these to replace my Audio-Technica ATH-M50x because I found that they were a little too bulky for my needs. I’m so glad that I did! These headphones are insanely comfortable, and the sound quality is superb. They’re great for listening to vinyl records or other audio devices like a tablet or phone. The build quality is also top-notch, with absolutely no complaints in this regard.
The only downside, if you can even call it that, is that they are not wireless like many of the other options on this list. But for around $150 USD, they’re worth every penny and will last you for years to come.
Koss Porta Pro
The Koss Porta Pro headphones are the perfect choice if you love vinyl records, and want to take your listening experience to the next level. They have a really comfortable design that feels to snug and never becomes too tight on the head. The ear cups offer great sound isolation so it’s like you’re in your own little world when wearing them.
The sound quality is also magnificent with even bass response, crisp high ranges and deep lows making them ideal for any type of music genre. The only downside is that they have an impedance of 30 ohms which means that they will not be compatible with some audio devices, so make sure you have one before purchasing these headphones!
Pioneer SE-MS5T-T
The Pioneer SE-MS5T-T headphones are a perfect example of a high quality, premium product. The sound is incredible and they have a frequency range from 15 Hz to 25000 Hz. Costing $150 USD, they offer superb sound quality with clear highs, detailed mid-range and powerful bass. In addition to the great sound reproduction, these headphones are also made out of high quality materials that feel durable and are comfortable to wear for hours on end without causing any discomfort or pain. And finally, the design also looks amazing with a sleek finish that will help them stand out and make you feel like your ears are right at the heart of the action in whatever you’re listening to. If you want one of the best headphones for vinyl, the Pioneer SE-MS5T-T is a brilliant choice.
Verdict
If you want one of the best headphones on the market when it comes to vinyl records, then you should choose Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. Personally, I enjoy listening my vinyl records with these headphones because they are very comfortable, have brilliant sound quality and last for a very long time.
What are the benefits of vinyl records?
Vinyl records are much more durable than CDs or downloads, which means you can easily play them without fear of scratching or damaging the disc. They’re also a great way to introduce yourself to new albums from bands you’ve never heard before. Keep in mind, however, that vinyl is a niche market that only caters to a certain kind of listener. It won’t be your most convenient way to listen to music, and it may not even sound better than digital formats for most people. But if you’re one of those who believe there’s no substitute for the sound of vinyl on a good quality stereo system, then this is an investment worth making!
Some of the main benefits of listening to vinyl records are:
- The sound quality is far superior to the sound on digital tracks, making enveloping, realistic sounds possible
- Vinyl records often produce less surface noise and other unintended artifacts than when listening to digital music files
- The needle drop creates a visceral sound that can’t be replicated digitally, allowing you to feel as if you’re in the room with the artist as they create their masterpiece
- Album artwork is an important part of any album experience; this becomes more evident through vinyl records as artwork is included in the physical object itselfes
- In 2019, vinyl sales increased by 25% – and the trend looks to continue growing
- It’s a great hobby to invest in which can also make you some spare cash on the side
- Certain albums are only released as records, meaning they’re out of print if you choose to buy them digitally. This means that by buying the record , you are going to get something unique that cannot be obtained any other way
- Some music genres such as reggae were born on vinyl records. Playing these albums with high-quality speakers is an experience in itself!
What is a good price range for a pair of headphones
The price for a good pair of headphones depends on the quality. The range is usually anywhere from $25 to $1000. If you prefer sound quality, you’re likely going to spend more. We’ll cover some of the cheaper options here, but if your main concern is quality then it’s best to invest in a pair that will sound great.
For most people, however, we recommend investing somewhere between $75 and $150 for a really good pair of headphones. If you want something with better audio technology than standard models (and would rather not spend over $200), we recommend the ATH-M50x or ATH M40x by Audio Technica. They generally cost around $150 and can usually be found on sale for as low as $99 – which makes them an affordable option without compromising too much on sound quality!
Do you need an amplifier for your headphones?
If you want to get the most out of your headphones, an amplifier is a great way to do this. Amplifiers will improve sound quality and give you better control over what type of music you listen to. They can also be used for wireless headphones by switching off the option that turns on signal when paired with a device.
Which brands make the best quality headphones
One good brand to go with is Audio-Technica. They make affordable models that produce high-quality sounds that are hard to find in other brands. Another good choice would be Sony which specializes in bringing out the nuances of music in a way that’s difficult for most other brands.
Many other brands like AKG, Sennheiser and more are also quite good. We recommend you take some time to look around for a pair that fits both your budget and your sound preferences.
How to find out if your music device will work with these headphones
To find out if your music device will work with these headphones, first check the input and output ports on the device. In most cases, you’ll need an analog input and output for headphones to work correctly. Most modern turntables and record players have one or the other, but it’s good to check in case your device doesn’t.
Can I connect headphones to turntable?
It depends on the turntable. Some turntables work just fine with headphones, while others require an auxiliary input to work properly. In general, the best thing to do is to check beforehand if your turntable has a headphone output and your headphones have standard audio jacks.
Are studio headphones good for vinyl?
Studio headphones are not always the best option for vinyl. In some cases they can make it difficult to hear the subtle differences in songs due to their audio tech. That being said, for some people who are looking for a very focused sound, studio headphones may be a good choice.
How do you listen to vinyl headphones with Bluetooth?
The easiest way to listen to vinyl with Bluetooth is by getting a Bluetooth adapter for your turntable. These adapters will allow you to wirelessly stream the audio from your Bluetooth device directly onto a pair of Bluetooth headphones.
Some modern turntables have a bluetooth function so connecting your headphones is super easy. Just pair them with your turntable and you are ready to go.
Conclusion
For many audiophiles, and even casual music listeners alike, there is nothing more pleasurable than dropping the needle on a good record. But before you start playing your next vinyl album, make sure you have quality headphones so you can enjoy it in all its full glory!
In this article I reviewed my favorite headphones for listening to vinyl and also provided some great recommendations.
Feel free to share your favorite headphones for listening to vinyl in the comments below. Happy listening!
