10 Best Studio Monitor Headphones 2025 in the United States

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones are a solid choice for anyone in need of reliable studio-monitor headphones. They feature a frequency response that goes up to 28,000 Hz, ensuring that you can hear a wide range of sounds clearly, including deep bass and intricate details in your audio. The 45mm large aperture drivers contribute to this exceptional sound quality, making them a favorite among audio engineers and professionals. Their closed-back design offers excellent sound isolation, which is crucial when working in louder environments or when you need to focus on the audio without distractions.

Comfort is another strong point of the ATH-M50x. The circumaural design fits snugly around the ears, ensuring that you can wear them for extended periods without discomfort. The swiveling earcups are a practical feature, allowing for easy one-ear monitoring, which can be beneficial in studio settings.

There are a few considerations to keep in mind. While they are comfortable, some users might find them a bit tight after prolonged use. The impedance is relatively low at 38 Ohm, meaning they can be driven easily by various devices, but audiophiles might prefer headphones with higher impedance for more nuanced sound reproduction. Additionally, these are wired headphones with a detachable 3-meter cable, which can be convenient but also limits mobility compared to wireless options.

The ATH-M50x headphones excel in sound quality, durability, and comfort, making them ideal for studio monitoring or critical listening. They may not be the best fit for those seeking maximum mobility or a very relaxed fit, but for serious audio work, they are a commendable choice.

The OneOdio Wired Over Ear Headphones are designed specifically for those in need of studio monitor headphones, making them a solid choice for musicians, DJs, and anyone involved in audio recording or mixing. One of the standout features is the large 50mm drivers that deliver a wide frequency range from 20 Hz to 40 kHz, ensuring powerful bass, clear vocals, and crisp highs. This makes them a great fit for studio work where sound clarity is crucial.

Comfort is another strength; the headphones come with soft, padded ear cushions and an adjustable headband, allowing for extended listening sessions without discomfort. The 90° swiveling ear cups facilitate single-ear monitoring, which is especially useful during live DJing or mixing, adding to their versatility.

However, there are some drawbacks to consider. The OneOdio headphones are wired, which means you won’t have the freedom of movement that wireless models offer. While this may be acceptable in a studio setting, it could be limiting for more casual listeners or those who prefer mobility. Additionally, the plastic build, while lightweight, may not feel as durable as other models made from higher-quality materials. The shared audio port feature is a nice touch, allowing users to connect another pair of headphones for shared listening without needing extra cables. This can be beneficial in collaborative environments.

The beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO Over-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones are a solid choice for professional mixing, mastering, and editing. With their open-back design, they offer a transparent and spacious sound, which is ideal for studio applications. The frequency range of 5 - 35,000 Hz ensures a wide spectrum of sound reproduction, providing strong bass and treble that can enhance critical listening tasks.

The 80 Ohm impedance is a middle ground, making these headphones versatile for both studio and home use, though less suitable for use with low-power devices like smartphones without an amplifier. The dynamic drivers contribute to the excellent sound quality that beyerdynamic is known for. Comfort is a major highlight with these headphones. The soft, replaceable velour ear pads and the over-ear design make them comfortable to wear for extended periods, which is essential for long studio sessions.

Build quality is another strength, as these headphones are durable and robust, made in Germany, ensuring longevity. However, the open-back design means they are not suitable for noise isolation and may not be ideal in noisy environments. Additionally, the wired connectivity and lack of noise control features might be a downside for some users who prefer more modern wireless options. The included tangle-free cable is a plus, but it might be a bit cumbersome for those who move around a lot during their work. These headphones are best suited for professional audio tasks in a controlled studio environment, offering great sound quality and comfort, with minor drawbacks in terms of noise isolation and mobility.