Are you a musician or music producer looking to set up a home studio? If so, you know that having the right gear is essential for producing high-quality music.
One of the most important pieces of equipment you’ll need is a pair of comfortable studio headphones for long recording sessions.
But with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right headphones for your needs. That’s where we come in.
In this article, we’ve researched and tested the top 6 most comfortable studio headphones for long sessions on the market.
We understand the pain point of having to wear uncomfortable headphones during long recording sessions, which is why we’ve narrowed down the options to only the best.
We’ll dive into each headphone’s unique features, pros, and cons, and provide our overall best pick.
Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, we’ve got you covered with headphones that offer exceptional sound quality, comfort, and durability.
So sit back, relax, and let’s find the perfect headphones for your home studio.
Contents
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Critically acclaimed sonic performance for accurate and balanced sound
- Professional-grade ear pads and headband for maximum comfort and durability
- Foldable design for easy portability
Sennheiser HD 650
- Open-back design for spacious and natural sound
- Comfortable velour ear pads for extended listening sessions
- Lightweight aluminum voice coils for high efficiency and low distortion
Sony MDR-7506
- Foldable design for easy portability
- High-quality sound reproduction with a wide frequency response
- Durable construction with replaceable ear pads and headband
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
- Wide frequency response for accurate sound reproduction
- Soft, replaceable ear pads for superior comfort and durability
- Single-sided cable for convenient handling
AKG K712 Pro
- Over-ear design for maximum comfort and reduced fatigue
- Flat-wire voice coil technology for improved frequency response and sound accuracy
- Open-back design for a spacious and natural soundstage
Shure SRH1540
- Lightweight construction for maximum comfort during long sessions
- Closed-back design for improved isolation and reduced outside noise
- Dual-exit cables with gold-plated MMCX connectors for easy replacement and customization.
Best Overall Comfortable Studio Headphones for Long Recording Sessions
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and high-performing set of headphones for long recording sessions.
These headphones have received critical acclaim for their sonic performance, which is characterized by accurate and balanced sound reproduction across the frequency spectrum.
The professional-grade ear pads and headband provide maximum comfort and durability, allowing you to wear them for extended periods without experiencing any discomfort or fatigue.
One of the standout features of the ATH-M50x is their foldable design, which makes them easy to transport and store. They also come with three detachable cables, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
The cables are also easy to replace if they become damaged or if you prefer a different length or connector type. Overall, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a comfortable and high-performing set of studio headphones for long recording sessions.
Choosing The Most Comfortable Studio Headphones for Long Recording Sessions
If you’re trying to find the most comfortable studio headphones for long recording sessions, there are some great options out there. Below are our top picks:
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Sennheiser HD 650
- Sony MDR-7506
- Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
- AKG K712 Pro
- Shure SRH1540
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Pros
- Comfortable fit for long studio sessions
- Excellent sound quality with clear highs and detailed lows
- Durable construction with a detachable cable for easy replacement
Cons
- Can feel tight on larger heads
- Not as suitable for casual listening or on-the-go use
- Some users may find the bass response to be lacking in comparison to other headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones are the perfect blend of comfort and performance, making them a popular choice among both professional and amateur musicians. With its over-ear design, the ATH-M50x provides a comfortable fit that won’t cause fatigue during long recording sessions.
The ear cups are well-padded, and the headband is adjustable, ensuring a secure and comfortable fit for most head sizes. The headphones also come with a protective carrying case, which is useful for transporting them to and from your studio or gigs.
In terms of sound quality, the ATH-M50x is a top performer. These headphones have a wide frequency response range, allowing for clear and accurate sound reproduction across the entire spectrum.
The bass is punchy without being overpowering, and the mid and high ranges are crisp and detailed. The headphones have a closed-back design, which provides excellent noise isolation, allowing you to focus on your recording or mixing without being distracted by external noise.
The ATH-M50x also comes with three detachable cables, including one coiled cable, one short straight cable, and one long straight cable, all with a standard 3.5mm jack. This makes them compatible with most devices and allows you to choose the cable length that best suits your needs.
The only downside to the ATH-M50x is that they may not be the best option for people who wear glasses, as the ear cups may press against the arms of the glasses, causing discomfort over time. Overall, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is an excellent choice for anyone looking for comfortable and high-performing studio headphones.
Sennheiser HD 650
Pros
- Clear and detailed sound quality with a wide soundstage
- Comfortable fit for long listening sessions
- High-quality materials and construction for durability
Cons
- May require a headphone amplifier for optimal performance
- Some users find the bass response lacking compared to other models
- Expensive compared to other options on the market
The Sennheiser HD 650 is a high-end set of headphones that is designed for audiophiles, music producers, and sound engineers who demand the best in terms of sound quality and comfort.
These headphones deliver a natural and balanced sound signature, which makes them perfect for mixing and mastering music, as well as for critical listening. The HD 650 is an open-back headphone, which means that it has a more spacious and open soundstage than closed-back headphones, allowing you to hear every detail in your music.
The HD 650 features a lightweight and comfortable design that makes it ideal for long listening sessions. The headphones are made with high-quality materials, such as velour earpads and a padded headband, which provides excellent comfort and durability.
The HD 650 also features a detachable cable, which makes it easy to replace in case of damage or wear and tear. One downside of the HD 650 is that they require a high-quality headphone amplifier to deliver their full potential, which may be an added expense for some users.
Overall, the Sennheiser HD 650 is a top-of-the-line set of headphones that is perfect for serious music producers and audiophiles who demand the best in sound quality and comfort.
The natural and balanced sound signature, combined with the comfortable and lightweight design, makes the HD 650 an excellent choice for long listening sessions. However, the requirement for a high-quality headphone amplifier may be a downside for some users.
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Sony MDR-7506
Pros
- Affordable price point for a high-quality pair of headphones
- Lightweight and comfortable design for extended use
- Clear and accurate sound quality with a wide frequency range
Cons
- Bass response can be lacking compared to other models in this price range
- Sound leakage can be an issue at higher volumes, which may disturb others nearby
- Build quality is good but not as durable as some other professional-grade headphones.
The Sony MDR-7506 is a professional-grade pair of headphones designed for use in recording studios, broadcasting, and film production. The closed-back design helps to reduce sound leakage and external noise, making it easier to focus on your audio work.
The headphones also feature a foldable design that makes them easy to transport, and the rugged build quality ensures that they can withstand frequent use.
One of the standout features of the Sony MDR-7506 is the sound quality. The headphones deliver a clear and accurate sound, making them an excellent choice for mixing and mastering music.
The headphones also have a wide frequency range, which allows you to hear a greater range of sound than many other headphones on the market. Another benefit of the Sony MDR-7506 is the comfort level.
The headphones feature a padded headband and ear cups that are comfortable to wear for long periods, making them an excellent choice for anyone who spends hours at a time working with audio.
While the Sony MDR-7506 has many benefits, there are a few areas where the headphones fall short. The bass response on the headphones is not as strong as some other models on the market, which may be a concern for those who prioritize a strong bass in their audio work.
Additionally, the headphones have a relatively low impedance, which means that they may not be suitable for use with some devices that require a higher impedance. Finally, the headphones do not have a detachable cable, which may be a concern for those who prefer to use their own cables or who need to replace a broken cable.
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Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with clear and detailed highs, mids, and lows
- Comfortable to wear for long periods of time with soft ear pads and adjustable headband
- Open-back design provides a spacious and natural soundstage
Cons
- Bass may be too overpowering for some listeners
- Cable is non-detachable and may be too long for some users
- Sound leakage can be an issue in quiet environments
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is a high-quality open-back headphone designed for studio use. The headphones feature a circumaural design with large ear cups that fully encompass the ears, making them comfortable for extended periods of use.
The DT 990 Pro has an impedance of 250 Ohms and a frequency response of 5Hz-35kHz, allowing for accurate sound reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum.
One of the standout features of the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is its sound quality. The headphones have a natural and balanced sound, with excellent detail and clarity in the mid-range frequencies.
The open-back design also provides a wide soundstage, making them great for mixing and mastering. Another benefit of the DT 990 Pro is its durability. The headphones are made with high-quality materials and have a robust construction, ensuring they can withstand heavy use in the studio.
However, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro may not be suitable for everyone. The open-back design means that sound leakage is an issue, making them unsuitable for use in a noisy environment or in a shared space.
The headphones also have a relatively high impedance of 250 Ohms, which means they require a powerful amplifier to drive them properly. Additionally, the DT 990 Pro is not very portable due to its size and open-back design, making them more suited for use in a studio setting rather than on-the-go.
In summary, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is a high-quality studio headphone with excellent sound quality and durability. While the open-back design provides a wide soundstage, it may not be suitable for all users due to sound leakage and a relatively high impedance. However, for those looking for a headphone with natural and balanced sound reproduction, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is an excellent choice.
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AKG K712 Pro
Pros
- Wide soundstage that provides excellent instrument separation and imaging
- Comfortable fit thanks to the self-adjusting leather headband and velour earpads
- Accurate and detailed sound that’s great for critical listening and audio production
Cons
- Not very portable due to their size and lack of foldability
- Requires an amp to drive them properly, which adds to the overall cost
- Some listeners may find the bass response lacking, especially if they’re used to bass-heavy headphones.
The AKG K712 Pro is a premium open-back headphone designed for studio use, offering a balanced and natural sound signature that is ideal for critical listening and professional audio work.
The K712 Pro boasts a unique design that provides a comfortable and secure fit, making it ideal for long studio sessions. The headphone features a self-adjusting leather headband and an over-ear design that comfortably contours to the shape of the user’s head, ensuring a perfect fit every time.
One of the key benefits of the AKG K712 Pro is its exceptional sound quality, which is thanks to its 2-layer diaphragm technology and flat-wire voice coils that deliver a natural, spacious soundstage with accurate and detailed audio reproduction across the entire frequency spectrum.
This makes the headphone a great choice for audio engineers and producers looking for a reference headphone that can help them make informed decisions during the mixing and mastering process. Additionally, the K712 Pro’s open-back design helps to provide a sense of spaciousness and depth that makes listening to music a more immersive experience.
While the AKG K712 Pro has many strengths, there are some areas where it falls short. One of the most notable drawbacks of this headphone is its lack of isolation, which makes it unsuitable for use in noisy environments or for recording vocals.
Additionally, the headphone’s impedance of 62 Ohms may make it more difficult to drive than some other headphones, which could be an issue for users with low-powered audio sources. Overall, the AKG K712 Pro is a great choice for professionals and audiophiles looking for a comfortable, high-quality headphone that can deliver an accurate and natural sound.
Shure SRH1540
Pros
- Superior sound quality with detailed and accurate audio reproduction across the frequency spectrum.
- Comfortable design with soft earpads and lightweight construction for extended listening sessions.
- Durable build quality with premium materials such as aluminum alloy and carbon fiber for long-term use.
Cons
- High price point compared to other headphones in its class.
- The closed-back design limits soundstage and can feel slightly claustrophobic for some users.
- The cable is non-detachable, which could be a disadvantage for some users who prefer a detachable cable for ease of replacement.
The Shure SRH1540 is a professional-grade closed-back headphone that is designed to deliver top-notch sound quality and comfort for extended listening sessions.
These headphones boast large 40mm neodymium drivers that produce a detailed, accurate sound with a wide frequency response range. The SRH1540 headphones have a lightweight and comfortable design with plush Alcantara earpads that provide a secure and comfortable fit. The detachable cable design and replaceable earpads make these headphones a durable and long-lasting option.
The Shure SRH1540 excels in delivering detailed and accurate sound across the entire frequency spectrum. These headphones produce a balanced and natural sound that is perfect for mixing and mastering music.
The closed-back design ensures that sound leakage is minimized, making these headphones an excellent choice for use in a studio environment. The comfortable and lightweight design is ideal for long sessions, making them a top choice for professional sound engineers and musicians. The detachable cable and replaceable earpads also make these headphones a practical and cost-effective option.
The Shure SRH1540 is an exceptional closed-back headphone that delivers high-quality sound and comfort for extended listening sessions. While the price point may be a bit higher than some other options, the performance and durability make them an excellent value for anyone looking for a professional-grade headphone.
The only potential downside to these headphones is that they may not be ideal for those who prefer a more bass-heavy sound. However, for those seeking a balanced and accurate sound, the Shure SRH1540 is an excellent choice.
FAQ
Q: What makes a studio headphone comfortable for long sessions?
A: Studio headphones that are comfortable for long sessions have features such as soft ear pads, lightweight design, and adjustable headbands that fit snugly without causing pressure points. They also have a balanced sound profile that reduces ear fatigue and allows for prolonged use without discomfort.
Q: What are some of the most comfortable studio headphones for long sessions?
A: There are several studio headphones that are known for their comfort during long sessions, including the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, Sennheiser HD 650, Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, AKG K712 Pro, Sony MDR-7506, and Shure SRH1540.
Q: Are over-ear or on-ear headphones more comfortable for long sessions?
A: Over-ear headphones are generally considered more comfortable for long sessions, as they have larger ear cups that fully enclose the ears and provide more padding. On-ear headphones, on the other hand, have smaller ear cups that rest on the ears, which can cause discomfort and pressure points over time.
Q: Can studio headphones be worn for hours at a time without causing discomfort or pain?
A: Yes, studio headphones can be worn for hours at a time without causing discomfort or pain if they are designed with comfort in mind. Look for headphones with features such as soft ear pads, lightweight design, and adjustable headbands to ensure a comfortable fit.
Q: Is it necessary to spend a lot of money to get comfortable studio headphones for long sessions?
A: Not necessarily. While some high-end studio headphones may offer more comfort features, there are plenty of affordable options that are still comfortable for long sessions. It’s important to do research and read reviews to find the right pair of headphones for your needs and budget.
Q: How can I prevent ear fatigue when using studio headphones for long sessions?
A: To prevent ear fatigue when using studio headphones for long sessions, take regular breaks and adjust the volume to a comfortable level. It’s also important to choose headphones with a balanced sound profile that won’t cause ear fatigue over time.
Final Thoughts on the Most Comfortable Studio Headphones for Long Recording Sessions
In conclusion, finding a comfortable pair of studio headphones for long sessions is essential for any audio professional or enthusiast. With the right set of headphones, you can enjoy excellent sound quality while working for hours without any discomfort or fatigue.
Each of the headphones we reviewed, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, Sennheiser HD 650, Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, AKG K712 Pro, Sony MDR-7506, and Shure SRH1540, has its unique strengths and weaknesses.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x stands out for its excellent sound isolation and rugged construction, making it an excellent choice for recording studios or noisy environments. The Sennheiser HD 650 delivers a neutral and accurate sound signature that is perfect for critical listening and mixing.
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro offers an impressive soundstage and wide frequency response that is ideal for immersive listening and gaming. The AKG K712 Pro delivers exceptional comfort, making it a popular choice for long listening sessions.
The Sony MDR-7506 is a classic studio headphone that offers reliable performance and a lightweight design. Finally, the Shure SRH1540 offers a premium listening experience with excellent sound quality and luxurious comfort.
Ultimately, the best comfortable studio headphones for long sessions depend on your personal preferences, budget, and intended use. Consider factors such as sound quality, comfort, durability, and isolation when selecting your next pair of headphones.
We hope this guide has provided you with valuable insights and helps you make an informed decision on your next purchase. Moreover, check out this product guide to learn more about different earplugs for musicians and how to choose the right pair for you.
Kevin is the founder of Music With Flavor, which joined Whipped Cream Sounds in 2023. He is a seasoned musician turned industry expert. His passion for music goes beyond melodies; he delves deep into the intricate world of music marketing, striving to unearth the most effective strategies for indie musicians. However, Music With Flavor isn’t just about Kevin’s knowledge; it’s a network of industry experts handpicked to provide the most trusted advice. Kevin’s role is to pose the right questions, not just answer them, as he and his team tirelessly research trends, connect with artists, and gather valuable insights.
