10 Best Studio Headphones For Mixing And Mastering 2026 in the United States

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50XGM headphones are a popular choice for mixing and mastering, known for their clear and accurate sound. They feature large 45mm drivers that deliver deep, precise bass and a wide frequency range, making it easier to hear the details in your music. With an impedance of 38 ohms, these headphones can be driven well by most audio equipment without needing extra amplification.

The closed-back, over-ear design helps isolate sound, which is good for working in noisy environments but means you won’t get the natural airiness of open-back models preferred by some professionals for critical listening. Comfort-wise, the earcups swivel 90 degrees and have cushioned pads, which are durable and comfortable enough for long studio sessions. The headphones also fold up for easier storage and come with detachable cables, adding to their convenience.

They are wired only, so no Bluetooth option is available if you want wireless freedom. While they are excellent for many users, some mixing engineers might prefer open-back headphones for a more natural soundstage during mastering. These headphones represent a solid, well-built option for music producers and engineers seeking reliable, clear monitoring with good isolation and comfort.

The beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro headphones are a popular choice for mixing and mastering thanks to their open-back design, which offers a spacious and transparent soundstage. With a wide frequency response from 5 Hz to 35 kHz, they capture deep lows and clear highs, which is important for detailed audio work. The 80 Ohm impedance makes them well-suited for use with most audio interfaces and studio equipment without needing extra amplification. Their large dynamic drivers deliver strong bass and crisp treble, helping you hear subtle details in your mixes.

Comfort is a big plus here — the soft velour ear pads and lightweight build allow for long sessions without discomfort. Made in Germany, these headphones are also known for their durable, high-quality construction. However, being open-back means they leak sound and don’t isolate noise well, so they’re best used in quiet studio environments rather than noisy places.

Also, while 80 Ohms is versatile, they might require a good audio source to reach their full potential. If you want reliable, clear, and comfortable studio headphones for mixing and mastering, the DT 990 Pro is a solid option, especially considering its strong reputation and reasonable price.

The Sennheiser HD 650 headphones are a stellar choice for mixing and mastering due to their high-fidelity sound and impressive build quality. These open-back headphones boast a frequency response of 10 Hz to 41,000 Hz, which is well beyond the typical audible range, ensuring that you can hear even the most subtle details in your audio. The impedance of these headphones is optimized for studio use, but they may require a dedicated headphone amplifier to reach their full potential when used with standard consumer devices.

The 42mm dynamic drivers are hand-selected and matched, which contributes to their precise and balanced sound output, making them excellent for critical listening tasks. The lightweight aluminum voice coils allow for fast transient response, further enhancing the clarity and detail of the sound. Comfort is another strong point, with the over-ear design and high-quality materials allowing for extended use without discomfort.

The open-back design, while great for creating a natural and spacious soundstage, does mean that they are not suitable for use in noisy environments or for tasks requiring sound isolation. These headphones are wired, which ensures a stable and high-quality connection, although it does limit mobility. The Sennheiser HD 650 offers excellent performance for studio professionals and audiophiles who prioritize sound accuracy and comfort, though they are less versatile for on-the-go or noisy settings.