10 Best Cheap Headphones For Mixing (2024 Update)

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As a music producer or audio engineer, you may be looking for affordable headphones that can provide accurate and detailed sound for mixing and mastering your tracks. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to find the right headphones that meet your needs and budget. In this article, we will discuss five key points to consider when looking for cheap headphones for mixing.

First, it's essential to choose headphones with a flat frequency response. This means that the headphones should produce sound without emphasizing any particular frequency range, resulting in a balanced and accurate sound. Second, you should look for headphones with a closed-back design that can isolate external noise and prevent sound leakage. Third, the headphones should have a comfortable fit, as you may be wearing them for extended periods while mixing.

Fourth, you should consider the impedance and sensitivity of the headphones. Lower impedance headphones require less power to drive, and higher sensitivity headphones produce louder sounds with the same amount of power. Finally, you should read reviews and compare different models to find the best value for your money.

Overall, finding the right cheap headphones for mixing requires some research and consideration of your specific needs. By following these key points, you can narrow down your options and make an informed decision that will help you produce high-quality music.

10 Best Cheap Headphones For Mixing

1. Neumann Ndh 30 Open-Back Headphones For Pro Mixing, Mastering, Podcasting & Hd Music Listening – Titanium (509111) Large.

The Neumann NDH 30 Dynamic Open-Back Headphone is the perfect tool for professional mixing, mastering, Twitch, YouTube, podcast, production, high definition music listening, and more. With its outstanding linearity and transient response, this headphone delivers an accurate and faithful reproduction of sound, ensuring that every detail is captured faithfully.

The high spatial resolution of the Neumann NDH 30 allows for precise placement and imaging of sound sources, making it ideal for tasks that require critical listening. Its sound and mixing compatibility with perfectly calibrated Neumann KH Line speakers means that users can expect a seamless transition between listening on headphones and speakers.

The Neumann NDH 30 also boasts excellent long-term wearing comfort, thanks to its ergonomic design and soft earpads. It is also foldable, making it easy to transport and store when not in use.

The headphone comes with an internally balanced cable (detachable), ensuring that users can enjoy a pure and unadulterated signal. This cable can be easily replaced in case of damage or wear, making it a cost-effective and practical choice for professionals.

Overall, the Neumann NDH 30 Dynamic Open-Back Headphone is a top-of-the-line choice for professionals who demand accuracy, precision, and comfort from their headphones. Its exceptional sound quality, compatibility with Neumann KH Line speakers, and long-term comfort make it an investment that will pay dividends for years to come.

2. Beyerdynamic Dt 770 Pro 250 Ohm Studio Headphones In Black For Mixing, Closed Construction, Wired.

The beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 250 Ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones in Black are a must-have for professional mixing in the studio. These headphones offer pure and high-resolution sound, making them perfect for studio recordings. With their closed over-ear design, they provide excellent noise isolation, ensuring you can focus on your work without any distractions.

The soft, circumaural and replaceable velour ear pads ensure high wearing comfort, even during extended periods of use. This makes them ideal for long studio sessions. The ear pads can be easily replaced, allowing you to keep your headphones in top condition for years to come.

The beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 250 Ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones in Black are built to last. They feature hard-wearing, durable and robust workmanship, all made in Germany. This ensures they can withstand the rigors of daily use in a professional studio environment.

One of the standout features of these headphones is the practical single-sided cable. The 3.0m coiled cable provides plenty of length, allowing you to move around freely while you work. The single-sided design also helps to minimize tangles and reduce cable clutter.

Overall, the beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 250 Ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones in Black are an excellent choice for anyone looking for high-quality studio headphones. They offer exceptional sound quality, comfortable wearing, and robust construction, all at an affordable price. Whether you're a professional producer, engineer, or musician, these headphones are sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

3. Neumann Ndh 20 Studio Headphones – Closed Back, Professional Monitoring For Gaming, Mixing, Mastering, Video Or Audio Production, Performing. Includes 3m Straight Cable With 1/8" Stereo Connector And 1/4" Adaptor.

The Neumann NDH 20 Closed Back Monitoring Professional Studio Headphones are a high-end audio solution designed for professionals in the gaming, mixing, mastering, video or audio production, and performing industries. These headphones offer a linear sound balance, much like Neumann's acclaimed studio monitors, making them an excellent choice for those who demand the highest level of sound accuracy and clarity.

One of the key features of the NDH 20 headphones is their excellent isolation, which allows users to work in noisy environments without being distracted by external sounds. This makes them ideal for use in recording studios, on film sets, or in any other setting where noise levels can be a problem.

The headphones also offer transparent sound with high resolution, providing users with a clear and detailed audio experience. This is essential for tasks such as mixing and mastering, where every detail of the sound needs to be heard in order to achieve the desired result.

In addition to their high-quality sound, the NDH 20 headphones are also designed for long-term comfort. The over-ear design and soft, replaceable earpads provide a comfortable fit, even during extended periods of use. This is particularly important for professionals who spend long hours working in the studio or on set.

The headphones also come with a 3-meter straight cable with a 1/8” stereo connector, as well as a 1/4” adaptor for use with a variety of audio equipment. This makes them a versatile option for use with a wide range of devices and setups.

It should be noted that the NDH 20 headphones have an impedance of 150 ohms, which means that a preamp or headphone amp may be required to get the best possible sound quality. However, for those who are willing to invest in the necessary equipment, these headphones offer a level of sound quality that is unmatched by most other options on the market.

Overall, the Neumann NDH 20 Closed Back Monitoring Professional Studio Headphones are an excellent choice for professionals in the audio and video industries. With their high-quality sound, excellent isolation, and long-term comfort, they are sure to meet the needs of even the most demanding users.

4. Beyerdynamic Dt 990 Pro 250 Ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones For Mixing, Mastering, And Editing

The beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones are a highly sought-after product for professional mixing, mastering, and editing. These open over-ear headphones are perfect for studio applications, providing a transparent, spacious, strong bass, and treble sound, making them ideal for professionals in the music industry.

The soft, circumaural and replaceable velour ear pads ensure high wearing comfort, making them perfect for extended periods of use. The over-ear design also allows for a comfortable fit and helps to reduce fatigue during long recording sessions. The headphones are designed with hard-wearing, durable, and robust workmanship, ensuring that they can withstand the demands of daily use. Made in Germany, these headphones are a testament to the country's reputation for precision engineering and attention to detail.

The beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones come with a practical single-sided cable, measuring 3.0m in length, with a coiled cable design. This feature makes it easy for professionals to move around the studio while working, without the risk of getting tangled up in wires or cables. The coiled cable design also ensures that the cable stays out of the way, reducing the risk of tripping and accidents.

The headphones are designed to provide a high level of sound quality, with a frequency response that ranges from 5 Hz to 35 kHz. The headphones feature a high level of sensitivity, measuring at 96 dB, ensuring that every detail of the sound is captured in high fidelity. The headphones also have an impedance of 250 ohms, making them suitable for use with a wide range of audio equipment.

In conclusion, the beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 ohm Over-Ear Studio Headphones are a must-have for professionals in the music industry. With their open over-ear design, high level of sound quality, and practical features such as the single-sided cable, these headphones are perfect for mixing, mastering, and editing. Their durable and robust workmanship ensures that they can withstand the demands of daily use, while their comfortable design ensures that professionals can work for extended periods without experiencing discomfort.

5. Beyerdynamic Dt 900 Pro X Open-Back Studio Headphones For Mixing And Mastering With Stellar.45 Driver.

The beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X Open-Back Studio Headphones with Stellar.45 Driver for Mixing and Mastering are a top-of-the-line choice for professionals in the music industry. These headphones are designed to provide a detailed, spatial, and transparent sound that is perfect for listening, mixing, and mastering.

One of the standout features of these headphones is the Stellar.45 drivers, which offer a versatile impedance of 48 ohms. This makes them suitable for use with a wide range of devices, from professional studio equipment to personal listening devices. The drivers deliver a high level of accuracy and clarity, allowing users to hear every detail of a recording.

Comfort is also a priority with the beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X headphones. They feature outstanding passive cushioning that provides excellent comfort for extended listening sessions. The headphones are also designed to be durable and robust, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of daily use in a professional studio environment.

Another important aspect of the beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X headphones is their sustainability. They are made in Germany with a focus on environmentally friendly production processes and materials. This makes them an ideal choice for professionals who are looking for high-quality headphones that are also eco-friendly.

Overall, the beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X Open-Back Studio Headphones with Stellar.45 Driver for Mixing and Mastering are an excellent choice for anyone who requires top-quality headphones for their work in the music industry. They offer outstanding sound quality, comfort, and durability, and are made with sustainability in mind. Whether you are a professional musician, engineer, or producer, these headphones are sure to meet your needs and exceed your expectations.

6. Beyerdynamic Dt 770 Pro 250 Ohm Studio Headphones Bundle With Accessories And Cleaning Cloth.

The beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 Ohm Closed-Back Studio Mixing Headphones Bundle is a high-quality set of headphones that is perfect for studio and stage recordings. These headphones are designed to deliver high-resolution sound that is both natural and balanced, making them ideal for professional editing, mixing, and mastering.

One of the standout features of these headphones is the German engineering that has gone into their design. Germany is widely known for its quality engineering, and the beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 headphones are no exception. Users can experience first-hand the true quality engineering that Germany is so well known for.

The bundle includes a range of accessories that make these headphones even more versatile. Included in the bundle is a soft case, headphone splitter and extension cable, and a 6AVE cleaning cloth. The soft case is perfect for protecting the headphones during transport, while the headphone splitter and extension cable make it easy to share audio with others or extend the reach of the headphones.

In addition to the accessories, the beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 headphones also come with a 1-year extended warranty in addition to a 2-year manufacturer warranty. This gives users peace of mind, knowing that their headphones are covered in case of any defects or issues.

Overall, the beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 Ohm Closed-Back Studio Mixing Headphones Bundle is an excellent choice for anyone looking for high-quality headphones that are perfect for professional studio use. With their natural and balanced sound, German engineering, and range of accessories, these headphones are sure to become a staple in any audio professional's toolkit.

7. Sennheiser Hd 599 Open Back Headphone, Ivory

The SENNHEISER HD 599 Open Back Headphone in Ivory is a premium-quality audio device that offers an unmatched listening experience. It combines audiophile sound with premium design and materials to deliver exceptional audio performance and comfort.

These headphones feature an around-ear, open-back design that provides a spacious and natural soundstage. This design allows sound to escape the ear cups, creating a more immersive and natural listening experience. Additionally, the open-back design reduces sound pressure on the ears, making it perfect for long listening sessions.

The headband and ear cups are padded with luxurious velour that provides a comfortable fit even during extended use. The headband has a brown stitching detail that adds a touch of elegance to the overall design. The ivory color and matte finish, coupled with the metallic details, create a timeless design that conveys quality at first glance.

The SENNHEISER HD 599 Open Back Headphone comes with multiple connectivity options. It has a robust 3-meter detachable cable and 6.3-millimeter jack that allows for easy connection to high-end audio equipment. Additionally, it has an additional 1.2-meter detachable cable with a 3.5-millimeter jack that can be used with portable devices.

These headphones feature Sennheiser engineered transducers that use aluminum voice coils. This design delivers high efficiency, excellent dynamics, and extremely low distortion, allowing for accurate and detailed sound reproduction.

The SENNHEISER HD 599 Open Back Headphone is a wired device that does not require a battery. It is compatible with a wide range of audio sources, including home audio systems, portable devices, and studio equipment.

In summary, the SENNHEISER HD 599 Open Back Headphone in Ivory is a premium-quality audio device that offers exceptional comfort and performance. Its open-back design, premium materials, and timeless design make it a great choice for anyone looking for a high-end audio experience.

8. Panasonic Rp-Ht161-K Over-Ear Headphones With Clear Sound And Xbs For Extra Bass, Long Cord And 3.5mm Jack.

The Panasonic RP-HT161-K headphones are a great choice for those who enjoy listening to music, watching movies, or playing games for long periods of time. These wired headphones are designed to deliver balanced, high-frequency sound that is on par with higher-priced models, making them an excellent value for the price.

One of the standout features of these headphones is their powerful bass, which is complemented by mid-range and high-frequency trebles for clear vocals and lyrics. This is made possible by the dual 30 millimeter neodymium driver units, which can handle up to 1000mW maximum power input.

In addition to great sound quality, the RP-HT161-K headphones are also designed for comfort. The plush padded earpads surround the entire ear, helping to minimize ambient noise and distractions. The smooth, quick-adjust headband conforms to the head for a comfortable fit, even during extended listening sessions.

The headphones come with an extra-long, 6.5 feet audio cord, which provides plenty of space to sit back and relax while watching movies or TV. It also gives you the freedom to move around while gaming, without having to worry about getting tangled up in cords.

Despite their impressive sound and comfort features, the RP-HT161-K headphones also look great. The sleek, distinctive matte black finish and lightweight design make them a clear choice for anyone who wants to enjoy high-quality sound with style.

Overall, the Panasonic RP-HT161-K headphones are an excellent choice for anyone who wants a great pair of wired headphones that deliver clear, powerful sound and lasting comfort.

Best Cheap Headphones For Mixing FAQs

Are there any budget-friendly headphones that are ideal for mixing and producing music?

Yes, there are budget-friendly headphones that are ideal for mixing and producing music. However, it is important to note that when it comes to audio equipment, quality usually comes with a higher price tag. Nevertheless, there are a few options that can provide decent sound quality at a lower price point. Some examples of budget-friendly headphones that are suitable for music production include the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x, the Sony MDR-7506, and the AKG K240 Studio. These headphones offer a relatively flat frequency response, which is essential for accurate monitoring during mixing and mastering. Additionally, they have a closed-back design that helps to isolate the sound and minimize bleed. Ultimately, while it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option available, investing in a decent pair of headphones can make all the difference in the quality of your music production.

Are there any good low-cost headphones for mixing and mastering?

Yes, there are some good low-cost headphones available for mixing and mastering. Some popular options include the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x, Sony MDR-7506, and Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro. These headphones offer a flat frequency response and good isolation, which are essential for accurate mixing and mastering. However, it's important to keep in mind that headphones alone are not enough for accurate mixing and mastering. It's recommended to use a combination of different monitoring systems, including studio monitors and headphones, to ensure that the mix sounds good on various playback devices. Additionally, it's essential to train your ears and gain experience in mixing and mastering to achieve the best results, regardless of the equipment used.

Can you get accurate sound quality from cheap headphones for mixing?

The short answer is no, you cannot get accurate sound quality from cheap headphones for mixing. Mixing is a critical part of the music production process, and it requires a high level of accuracy and precision. Cheap headphones do not have the necessary components and technology to provide accurate sound reproduction, which can lead to inaccurate mixing decisions.

When it comes to mixing, you need headphones that are specifically designed for that purpose. These headphones have flat frequency response and are calibrated to provide accurate sound reproduction. They also have high-quality drivers and other components that allow for precise sound reproduction.

Cheap headphones, on the other hand, are designed for general listening and do not have the necessary components and technology for mixing. They often have a skewed frequency response, which can lead to inaccurate sound reproduction. Additionally, they may not be able to handle the dynamics and nuances of a mix, which can result in distorted or muddled sound.

In conclusion, if you want to ensure accurate sound quality when mixing, it is essential to invest in high-quality headphones that are designed for that purpose. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper options, they will not provide the accuracy and precision needed for critical mixing decisions.

How do I choose the right budget headphones for mixing and recording music?

When choosing budget headphones for mixing and recording music, it's important to consider a few key factors. Firstly, look for headphones with a flat frequency response, as this will provide a more accurate representation of your mixes. Closed-back headphones are also ideal for recording, as they offer better isolation from outside noise. Comfort is also important, as you'll likely be wearing these headphones for long periods of time. Look for headphones with soft, well-padded ear cups and an adjustable headband. Finally, consider the build quality and durability of the headphones, especially if you plan to use them for live performances or frequent studio use. It's worth investing in a quality pair of headphones that will last you for years to come. Some popular budget options for mixing and recording include the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x, Sony MDR-7506, and AKG K240 Studio.

What are the best affordable headphones for mixing music?

When it comes to mixing music, having a good pair of headphones is essential. However, finding affordable headphones that also offer high-quality sound can be a challenge.

One option that many music professionals recommend is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. These headphones are known for their exceptional sound quality and accuracy, making them a great choice for mixing music. They also come with a detachable cable, which is a convenient feature for when you need to replace it.

Another option to consider is the Sony MDR-7506. These headphones have been popular among music professionals for many years, and for good reason. They offer clear and accurate sound, and are also durable and comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

Lastly, the Sennheiser HD280 Pro is another affordable option that offers great sound quality. These headphones are known for their excellent noise isolation, making them a good choice for mixing in noisy environments.

Ultimately, the best affordable headphones for mixing music will depend on your personal preferences and needs. However, these three options are a great place to start your search for the perfect pair of headphones.

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