Are you a music producer on a budget and looking for the best headphones that won’t break the bank? Look no further! We’ve compiled a list of the 10 best headphones for music production under $100 that offer high-quality sound and durability.
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Factors to Consider When Choosing Headphones for Music Production
When it comes to buying headphones for music production, there are a few factors to consider. Here are some of the most important ones:
Frequency Response
A good pair of headphones should have a flat frequency response, meaning they should produce sound evenly across all frequencies. This ensures that you can hear all the details in your mix.
Comfort
As a music producer, you will be wearing headphones for extended periods. Therefore, it is crucial to choose headphones that are comfortable to wear. The headphones should fit snugly around your ears without causing any discomfort.
Build Quality
You want headphones that can withstand the wear and tear of everyday use. The headphones should be made of durable materials that can withstand the test of time.
Sound Signature
Different headphones have different sound signatures. Some are more balanced, while others are bass-heavy or treble-heavy. Understanding the sound signature of each headphone can help you make a more informed decision based on your individual preferences.
The 10 Best Headphones for Music Production Under $100
| Factor | Description |
|---|---|
| Impedance | The measure of resistance to electric current flow in headphones. Lower impedance headphones require less power to drive them and are better suited for use with portable devices. Higher impedance headphones offer better sound quality but require a headphone amplifier to power them. |
| Sensitivity | The measure of how efficiently the headphones convert electrical signals into sound. Higher sensitivity headphones require less power to produce the same volume level as lower sensitivity headphones. |
| Driver Size | The size of the speaker driver inside the headphones. Larger drivers generally produce better bass response and soundstage, while smaller drivers are better suited for producing accurate and detailed sound. |
| Cable Length | The length of the cable that connects the headphones to the audio source. Longer cables offer more flexibility in movement, while shorter cables reduce cable clutter and are better suited for portable use. |
| Weight | The weight of the headphones. Heavier headphones can cause discomfort during extended use, while lighter headphones are more comfortable to wear for extended periods. |
- Audio-Technica ATH-M20x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M20x is an excellent entry-level headphone for music production. It has a wide frequency response of 15Hz to 20kHz, providing a clear and balanced sound. The headphones are made of durable materials and have a comfortable fit, making them suitable for extended use.
- AKG K240 Studio
The AKG K240 Studio is a semi-open headphone that offers a natural and accurate sound. It has a frequency response of 15Hz to 25kHz, providing a balanced sound across all frequencies. The headphones are comfortable to wear and have a self-adjusting headband, making them suitable for long mixing sessions.
- Sony MDR-7506
The Sony MDR-7506 is a classic headphone that has been used by music producers for many years. It has a flat and accurate frequency response, making it suitable for mixing and mastering. The headphones are also comfortable to wear and have a closed-back design, providing excellent noise isolation.
- Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro is a closed-back headphone that offers excellent noise isolation. It has a frequency response of 8Hz to 25kHz, providing a balanced sound across all frequencies. The headphones are durable and comfortable to wear, making them suitable for extended use.
- Beyerdynamic DT 240 Pro
The Beyerdynamic DT 240 Pro is a closed-back headphone that offers a balanced and detailed sound. It has a frequency response of 5Hz to 35kHz, providing excellent detail across all frequencies. The headphones are also comfortable to wear and have a durable build quality.
- Shure SRH440
The Shure SRH440 is a closed-back headphone that offers a clear and accurate sound. It has a frequency response of 10Hz to 22kHz, providing a balanced sound across all frequencies. The headphones are comfortable to wear and have a durable build quality, making them suitable for extended use.
- Audio-Technica ATH-M30x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M30x is an upgrade from the ATH-M20x. It has a wider frequency response of 15Hz to 28kHz, providing a more detailed and accurate sound. The headphones are also comfortable to wear and have a durable build quality.
- Koss Pro-4AA
The Koss Pro-4AA is a classic headphone that has been used by music producers for many years. It has a frequency response of 10Hz to 25kHz, providing a balanced and detailed sound. The headphones are also comfortable to wear and have a durable build quality.
- Samson SR850
The Samson SR850 is an open-back headphone that offers a natural and airy sound. It has a frequency response of 10Hz to 30kHz, providing excellent detail across all frequencies. The headphones are comfortable to wear and have a durable build quality.
- Superlux HD-681
The Superlux HD-681 is an affordable headphone that offers a balanced and detailed sound. It has a frequency response of 10Hz to 30kHz, providing excellent detail across all frequencies. The headphones are comfortable to wear and have a durable build quality, making them suitable for extended use.
Case Study: Maria’s Experience with the Sennheiser HD280 Pro
Maria is a music producer who was looking for a pair of headphones that would allow her to mix and master her tracks without breaking the bank. After doing some research, she decided to try out the Sennheiser HD280 Pro.
At first, Maria was blown away by the sound quality of the headphones. She could hear every detail in her tracks, from the thump of the bass to the crispness of the hi-hats. However, after using them for a few days, she noticed that they were a bit uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The ear cups were a bit too small for her ears, and the headband was a bit too tight.
Despite this, Maria continued to use the headphones and found that they were a great tool for mixing and mastering. She was able to get her mixes sounding just the way she wanted them to, and she felt like she had a better understanding of the nuances in her tracks.
Overall, Maria would recommend the Sennheiser HD280 Pro to any music producer who is looking for a high-quality pair of headphones on a budget. While they may not be the most comfortable headphones on the market, they more than make up for it with their sound quality and affordability.
Conclusion
Choosing the best headphones for music production under $100 can be challenging, but it is possible. By considering the frequency response, comfort, build quality, and sound signature, you can find a pair of headphones that will serve you well in your music production journey. The headphones listed above are proven to produce high-quality sound and offer a comfortable fit. So, choose the one that best suits your needs and start producing great music!
Questions
Who can benefit from using headphones for music production?
Music producers, audio engineers and recording artists.
What should I look for when choosing headphones for music production?
Look for flat frequency response, closed-back design and comfort.
How can headphones under $100 be suitable for music production?
They offer great value for money and can still provide accurate sound.
What if I don’t like the sound of the headphones I bought?
Make sure to read reviews and return policies before purchasing.
How can I ensure my headphones last a long time?
Store them properly, keep them clean and avoid exposing them to extreme temperatures.
What if I need more features than what’s offered in headphones under $100?
You may need to increase your budget for more advanced features.
