Finding the best budget headphones for music production can be a daunting task, especially if you’re new to the world of audio equipment. But fret not! In this article, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best budget headphones for music production in 2021 to help you make an informed decision. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned professional, these headphones offer exceptional sound quality, comfort, and value for money. So, let’s dive in and find the perfect pair of headphones for your music production needs!
Table of Contents
Introduction
Are you a beginner or intermediate music producer looking for reliable headphones without breaking the bank? “Budget headphones for music production” refer to headphones that offer good quality and performance, usually priced under $200, making them an affordable option.
Choosing the right headphones for music production is crucial, as it can impact the quality of your mix. For instance, boosted bass response on your headphones may lead to a mix that sounds overly bass-heavy when played on other audio systems. Therefore, it’s essential to consider several factors when selecting the best budget headphones for music production.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Budget Headphones for Music Production
When looking for budget headphones for music production, there are several factors that you should keep in mind before making your purchase. Here are the main factors to consider:
Frequency Response
Frequency response is one of the most critical factors to consider when choosing headphones for music production. It refers to how well the headphones reproduce different frequencies of sound. Ideally, you want headphones that have a flat frequency response, meaning that they don’t emphasize any specific frequency range.
This allows you to hear your mix accurately without any artificial boost or attenuation in frequency ranges. Understanding your music genre and the types of instruments that you’ll be working with can help you choose headphones with the appropriate frequency response.
Impedance
Impedance is another important factor to consider when selecting headphones for music production. It refers to the amount of resistance that the headphones offer to the audio signal. Headphones with higher impedance require more power to drive, and they tend to produce better sound quality. However, they may not be compatible with all audio devices, so it’s essential to check the impedance rating of your headphones before purchasing them.
A high impedance rating can also affect the volume level from your headphones, so it’s essential to choose headphones with an impedance rating that is compatible with your audio equipment.
Comfort and Fit
Since music production involves long hours of wearing headphones, it’s crucial to choose headphones that are comfortable to wear for extended periods. Look for headphones with soft earpads and headbands that offer good padding. Additionally, make sure that the headphones fit well and don’t put too much pressure on your ears or head.
Poorly fitting headphones can not only be uncomfortable, but they can also affect the quality of your mix. For example, if the headphones are too tight or too loose, they can impact the sound quality or cause discomfort after prolonged use. Therefore, it’s important to prioritize comfort and fit when choosing the best budget headphones for music production.
Noise Isolation
Noise isolation is another feature to consider when choosing headphones for music production. Headphones with good noise isolation can block out external noise, allowing you to focus on your mix without distractions. Closed-back headphones are usually better at noise isolation than open-back headphones.
The level of noise isolation you need will depend on your work environment and the amount of external noise you need to block out while working.
Build Quality and Durability
Since you’ll be using your headphones frequently, it’s important to choose headphones that are sturdy and well-built. Look for headphones that are made of durable materials and have a solid construction. Additionally, make sure that the headphones come with a warranty to protect your investment.
Investing in a well-built pair of headphones can save you money in the long run, as you won’t need to replace them as often.
Price and Value for Money
Finally, consider the price and value for money when choosing budget headphones for music production. Look for headphones that offer good quality and performance for their price. Don’t just go for the cheapest option, but also don’t overspend on features that you don’t need.
Consider your budget and your specific needs before making a purchase, and choose headphones that offer the best value for your money.
Top 5 Affordable Headphones for Music Production
In this section, we will reveal our top 5 picks for the best affordable headphones for music production in 2021. After considering the essential factors to consider when choosing budget headphones for music production, we have selected the following headphones based on sound quality, comfort, noise isolation, and price.
1. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x is a popular choice among music producers, thanks to its excellent sound quality and affordability. It has a flat frequency response, making it ideal for mixing and mastering. The headphones also have a closed-back design, which provides good noise isolation. The build quality is sturdy, and the headphones come with a detachable cable, making them easy to replace if damaged. However, some users may find that the headphones clamp too tightly on their head, making them uncomfortable for extended use.
2. Sennheiser HD280 Pro
The Sennheiser HD280 Pro is another popular choice among music producers. It has a flat frequency response, making it ideal for mixing and mastering. The headphones have a closed-back design, which provides good noise isolation. The build quality is excellent, and the headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods. However, they are not the most portable headphones due to their size.
3. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is a great option for music producers who want headphones with a boosted bass response. The headphones have a closed-back design, which provides good noise isolation. The build quality is excellent, and the headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods. However, they may not be the best choice for producers who want a flat frequency response.
4. Sony MDR-7506
The Sony MDR-7506 is a classic choice among music producers. It has a flat frequency response, making it ideal for mixing and mastering. The headphones have a closed-back design, which provides good noise isolation. The build quality is excellent, and the headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods. However, some users may find the headphones to be too tight on their head, leading to discomfort.
5. AKG K240 Studio
The AKG K240 Studio is a great option for music producers who want headphones with a semi-open design. The headphones have a flat frequency response, making them ideal for mixing and mastering. The build quality is average, but the headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods. However, they may not be the best choice for producers who want good noise isolation.
Overall, these headphones are excellent choices for music producers who want high-quality headphones on a budget. It’s important to note that some users may prefer one pair of headphones over another based on their individual preferences and needs. Therefore, it’s crucial to consider each pair of headphones’ features and specifications before making a purchase.
Comparison of the Top 5 Affordable Headphones for Music Production
To help you choose the best budget headphones for music production, we have compared the top 5 affordable headphones based on different factors.
Technical Specifications and Features
Here is a comparison of the technical specifications and features of each headphone model:
| Headphone Model | Frequency Response | Impedance | Sensitivity | Driver Size |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Audio-Technica ATH-M40x | 15Hz-24kHz | 35 ohms | 98dB | 40mm |
| Sennheiser HD280 Pro | 8Hz-25kHz | 64 ohms | 102dB | 40mm |
| Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro | 5Hz-35kHz | 80 ohms | 96dB | 45mm |
| Sony MDR-7506 | 10Hz-20kHz | 63 ohms | 106dB | 40mm |
| AKG K240 Studio | 15Hz-25kHz | 55 ohms | 91dB | 30mm |
Comfort, Fit, and Noise Isolation
Here is a comparison of the comfort, fit, and noise isolation of each headphone model:
| Headphone Model | Comfort | Fit | Noise Isolation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio-Technica ATH-M40x | Average | Average | Good |
| Sennheiser HD280 Pro | Good | Good | Good |
| Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro | Good | Good | Good |
| Sony MDR-7506 | Average | Tight | Good |
| AKG K240 Studio | Good | Good | Average |
Build Quality and Durability
Here is a comparison of the build quality, durability, and warranty of each headphone model:
| Headphone Model | Build Quality | Durability | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|
| Audio-Technica ATH-M40x | Excellent | Excellent | 2-year limited warranty |
| Sennheiser HD280 Pro | Excellent | Excellent | 2-year warranty |
| Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro | Excellent | Excellent | 2-year warranty |
| Sony MDR-7506 | Excellent | Average | 1-year warranty |
| AKG K240 Studio | Average | Average | 2-year warranty |
Price and Value for Money
Here is a comparison of the price and value for money of each headphone model:
| Headphone Model | Price | Value for Money |
|---|---|---|
| Audio-Technica ATH-M40x | $99 | Excellent |
| Sennheiser HD280 Pro | $99 | Excellent |
| Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro | $159 | Good |
| Sony MDR-7506 | $99 | Excellent |
| AKG K240 Studio | $69 | Excellent |
Insider Tips for Choosing Budget Headphones for Music Production
When choosing budget headphones for music production, there are a few insider tips that can help you get the most value for your money:
- Don’t focus on brand names only. While some brands are known for producing high-quality headphones, don’t overlook lesser-known brands that may offer comparable or even better performance for a lower price.
- Consider used or refurbished headphones. If you’re on a tight budget, consider buying used or refurbished headphones from reputable sellers. You can often find great deals on headphones that are still in excellent condition.
- Try before you buy. If possible, try out different headphones in person before making a purchase. This can help you get a better sense of the comfort, fit, and sound quality of different models.
- Check for compatibility. Before buying headphones, make sure they are compatible with your audio devices. Some headphones may require a separate amplifier or may not work with certain devices.
By keeping these insider tips in mind, you can make a more informed decision when choosing the best budget headphones for music production.
Best Places to Buy Affordable Headphones for Music Production
If you’re looking to buy affordable headphones for music production, there are several online and offline retailers to choose from. Some of the most reputable online retailers include Amazon, Sweetwater, B&H, and Guitar Center. These retailers offer a wide selection of headphones, making it easy to find a pair that fits your budget and preferences.
In addition to these online retailers, you can also visit the official websites of headphone manufacturers such as Audio-Technica, Sennheiser, Beyerdynamic, Sony, and AKG. These websites provide detailed information about their products, including technical specifications, customer reviews, and warranty information.
When purchasing headphones, it’s important to compare prices and check for deals and discounts. Many retailers offer discounts and promotions throughout the year, so be sure to keep an eye out for these offers. You can also consider buying used or refurbished headphones to save money, but be sure to purchase from a reputable seller to ensure the headphones are in good condition.
Overall, the best places to buy affordable headphones for music production are online and offline retailers with a good reputation, as well as the official websites of headphone manufacturers. By comparing prices, checking for deals, and considering used or refurbished options, you can find a high-quality pair of headphones that fits your budget.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the best budget headphones for music production requires careful consideration of several factors. The factors include frequency response, impedance, comfort, noise isolation, build quality, and price. Our top 5 picks for the best affordable headphones for music production in 2021 are the following:
- Audio-Technica ATH-M40x: These headphones have a flat frequency response, 40mm drivers, and 90-degree swiveling earcups for easy one-ear monitoring. They are also lightweight and comfortable for long sessions.
- Sennheiser HD280 Pro: These headphones have a wide frequency response, excellent noise isolation, and a collapsible design for easy storage and portability. They are also rugged and durable for everyday use.
- Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro: These headphones have a detailed and accurate sound, excellent noise isolation, and a comfortable fit for long hours of use. They also have a replaceable cable for added flexibility.
- Sony MDR-7506: These headphones have a wide frequency response, closed-back design, and comfortable earpads for extended use. They also have a foldable design for easy storage and portability.
- AKG K240 Studio: These headphones have a semi-open design, a comfortable fit, and a wide frequency response. They also feature a self-adjusting headband for a perfect fit.
By following our tips for choosing the right headphones and buying from reputable sellers, you can find the perfect headphones for your music production needs. Don’t forget to check out our other content for more helpful tips and advice on audio equipment!
Take Action: Check out our other articles on audio equipment to help you take your music production to the next level!
Common Questions
Q: Who should use budget headphones for music production?
A: Anyone who wants to produce music without breaking the bank.
Q: What factors should I consider when choosing budget headphones?
A: Frequency response, impedance, comfort, noise isolation, build quality, and price.
Q: How do I know if the headphones have good noise isolation?
A: Look for closed-back headphones, which are better at noise isolation than open-back headphones.
Q: What if the headphones are uncomfortable or don’t fit well?
A: Look for headphones with soft earpads and headbands that offer good padding, and make sure they fit well before purchasing.
Q: How do I choose between headphones with different frequency responses?
A: Consider your music genre and the types of instruments you’ll be working with to choose headphones with the appropriate frequency response.
Q: What if I have a tight budget?
A: Consider buying used or refurbished headphones from reputable sellers, and don’t overspend on features you don’t need.
