Listening to music is one of the leading reasons for using headphones, so the importance of properly selecting a device specifically for these purposes is high. Taking this nuance into account, our resource decided to present to everyone a rating of the best headphones for music. The material presented below was created based on many hours of analysis of reviews from the truest music lovers, so there is no need to doubt the competence of the information presented.
The best in-ear headphones
In-ear or in-ear headphones are a well-known type of this device. It gained the greatest popularity in the late 90s and early 00s. Today, in-ear headphones are somewhat of a relic of the past, but their use still continues.
Sennheiser MX 550 and MX 585
These in-ear headphones are the standard of their class. Comfort of use, quality of production and sound level are the properties that the presented devices can be proud of.
Advantages:
- average price category (up to 1,500 rubles);
- high quality (work stably for at least 6-12 months);
- ease of use;
- sensitivity up to 120 dB and good sound;
- good design;
- availability of microphone and button equipment for additional purposes;
- compatibility with almost all devices that can relay sound through the Mini-Jack connector;
- ease of search for purchase.
Flaws:
- problems in terms of sound insulation and assembly properties;
- slight “wheezing” when first started.
The in-ear headphones in question are quite worthy of attention, however, they are not suitable for fans of dubstep and similar music, since the bass is not pronounced enough. Otherwise, users have no complaints about these devices.
Recommendations: 10 best wireless headphones, 6 best headphones with good bass, 6 best studio headphones
Apple MB770
Apple MB770 are high-quality and great-sounding headphones. High ease of use at a relatively low cost is one of the most important advantages of an Apple device.
Advantages:
- average cost (up to 1,600 rubles);
- high level of reliability (uninterrupted service life of at least 6-12 months);
- comfort during use;
- sensitivity up to 122 dB and excellent sound;
- decent appearance;
- equipped with a microphone and control buttons;
- Full compatibility with Mini-Jack 3.5 mm;
- availability in terms of purchase.
Flaws:
- minor shortcomings in terms of sound insulation.
In general, the Apple MB770 is exactly what you need for listening to good music, but definitely not dubstep and the like.
5 best headphones under 1000 rubles
With wires or without?
All types of headphones are available in two versions:
- With wired connection;
- With wireless connection.
Wired headphones have a plug that is inserted into a phone, player or tablet, or a computer connector. The advantage of these is reliability and zero energy consumption.
Wireless accessories have a big advantage over classic ones - they do not bind movements and do not tie you to a computer or tablet. They have a range of action, usually at least 10 meters.
Wireless headphones are connected to a central device via Wi-Fi or Bluetooth channels, and rarely via an infrared port. To do this, their structure includes an electrical power source: these can be batteries or an accumulator that needs to be charged. On a long journey, the headphones may run out. In addition, signal transmission takes away the charge from the phone/tablet.
Choosing headphones with or without wires is purely a matter of preference and needs.
The best in-ear headphones
Vacuum or in-ear headphones are a trendy type of device in their field. In essence, such equipment is modernized earbuds, but has better sound insulation. In addition to this, “vacuum speakers” are often of better sound quality and more convenient to use.
Sony MDR-XB50BS
Sony MDR-XB50BS are one of the best wireless headphones. They are distinguished by their wireless operating principle, long battery life and excellent sound properties.
Reviews Review
Advantages:
- excellent quality (work for at least 12 months before breaking);
- ease of use;
- sensitivity of 118 dB and sound quality of the highest quality;
- pleasant appearance;
- presence of a microphone and basic control buttons;
- work via Bluetooth for 9 hours without recharging;
- excellent sound insulation;
- ease of search for purchase.
Flaws:
- long recharging (up to 3 hours);
- small flaws in terms of fixation;
- high price category (about 5,000 rubles).
Despite the fact that only a limited number of people can afford such an expensive device, it is purchased quite often. The unanimous decision of all Sony MDR-XB50BS owners can recognize these vacuum headphones as an excellent device for listening to absolutely any music.
Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 In-Ear (M2 IEi)
Vacuum headphones are also quite expensive in the market segment, but very high quality. In terms of sound and overall configuration, the Sennheiser Momentum 2.0 In-Ear (M2 IEi) are perhaps the cheapest professional headphones in our rating.
Advantages:
- high quality (work for at least 12 months before breaking);
- high comfort in use;
- sensitivity of 118 dB and the highest sound;
- stylish design;
- equipped with a microphone and basic control buttons;
- operate using Mini-Jack technology;
- excellent sound insulation;
- ease of search for purchase.
Flaws:
- high price tag (about 5,000 rubles).
The only possible way to characterize Momentum 2.0 In-Ear is decent sound. What else do you need for headphones? Definitely, for a fan of heavy metal and similar music, this device will be a godsend.
10 most expensive headphones
Xiaomi Piston 3
Xiaomi Piston 3 is a clear indication that high-quality vacuum cleaners can cost mere pennies. Budget and quality are the main characterizing properties of these devices.
Reviews Review
Advantages:
- low cost (up to 1000 rubles);
- average quality (work for about 4-8 months, after which they break);
- ease of use;
- sensitivity of 100 dB and sound quality;
- pleasant appearance;
- equipped with a microphone and basic control buttons;
- support for most modern devices that reproduce sound via a 3.5 mm Mini-Jack connector;
- excellent sound insulation;
- ease of search for purchase.
Flaws:
- minor sound defects (insufficient sound depth);
- minor problems with fastening;
- assembly details.
Of course, the Xiaomi Piston 3 cannot be classified as a top-end in-ear headphone, but for an unpretentious music lover, this option will probably be the best. Moreover, taking into account the cheap cost of such equipment.
Review of manufacturers
In stores, on real and virtual storefronts, there is a huge selection of headphones of different designs and types from well-known and not so well-known manufacturers.
Beats
Monster Beats are headphones from an American brand created by the famous Dr. Dre, now owned by Asian HTC.
Original accessories from the manufacturer cost a lot:
- droplets will cost from 1,500 rubles;
- invoices of the Solo 2 type from 2014 - about 7 thousand rubles, new ones - at least 10 thousand;
- wireless earplugs with fixation on the back of the head Beats Powerbeats3 Wireless – RUB 10,700.
Original Beats equipment cannot be cheap; in this case, the quality fully corresponds to the price.
Xiaomi
The increasingly popular Chinese manufacturer Xiaomi offers relatively budget-friendly and at the same time high-quality gadgets, including headphones.
- The simplest headphones with a vacuum attachment, Xiaomi Mi In-Ear Headphones Basic, will cost about 400 rubles.
- More serious and “sounding” Xiaomi Hybrid Dual Drivers Earphones (Piston 4) cost 1,300 rubles.
- Serious Xiaomi Mi Headphones for studio work and computer surfing will cost about 5,000 rubles.
Xiaomi is the ideal solution for those who want good sound quality at an affordable price.
Sony
Japanese Sonys are focused on playing with good bass; for this they have a reliable and high-quality mechanism. Product prices vary:
- channel Sony MDR-EX15LP – about 450 rubles;
- For music lovers and gamers Sony MDR-ZX220BT – 2350 rubles;
- Studio headphones Sony WH-1000XM2 – 27,000 rubles.
Sennheiser
The German quality of Sennheiser equipment is loved by modern music lovers; the brand’s products strive to become leaders in the segment, despite high prices:
- High sensitivity plugs Sennheiser CX 300-II 1280 rubles;
- Budget closed-back headphones Sennheiser HD 180 – only 1000 rubles (!);
- Studio Sennheiser HD 600 with high impedance will cost 19,290 rubles.
Shure
Shure brand headphones are created for extraordinary individuals. The unique design of the accessory impresses with its unusualness and price:
- Vacuum Shure SE215 – 7,000 rubles;
- Studio Shure SRH 1540 – RUB 40,000;
- Channel headphones in a transparent case Shure SE846 – RUB 65,900.
Popular brands also include Koss, Audio Technika ATH, JBL and many others from different parts of the world.
The best over-ear headphones
Full-size headphones are equipment that, as a rule, has a fairly high price category. This is largely due to the fact that such devices are capable of producing very clear and high-quality sound. It is not for nothing that “ears” are the most preferred devices for listening to tracks among fans of absolutely all types of music.
Philips SHP2500
Philips SHP2500 is the best option among full-size headphones in the budget category. This equipment does not have any specific features, but it is very popular among music lovers, so to speak, with a limited budget.
Reviews Review
Advantages:
- low cost (no more than 1500 rubles);
- average quality (does not break before 4 months of use);
- high comfort in use;
- sensitivity of 105 dB and excellent sound quality;
- good appearance;
- presence of basic control buttons;
- compatibility with almost all devices capable of reproducing sound using Mini-Jack technology;
- excellent sound insulation;
- long cord;
- ease of search for purchase.
Flaws:
- lack of microphone;
- presence of minor defects in the assembly.
It is difficult to give any recommendations regarding the Philips SHP2500, since they sound, of course, not bad, but only for their price category. Therefore, if you have some finances, it is better to give preference to more expensive equipment, otherwise the SHP2500 is what you need.
How to improve sound quality in headphones
Sennheiser RS 160
Sennheiser RS 160 is the generally recognized “TOP” among full-size headphones of all prices. The sound quality, reliability, ease of use and other properties of the equipment are definitely at the highest level. Its only drawback is the high price, which you just have to come to terms with.
Reviews Review
Advantages:
- high quality (work stably for at least a full year of operation);
- high level of comfort in use;
- sensitivity of 110 dB and excellent sound;
- stylish appearance;
- equipped with basic control buttons and a microphone;
- work via Bluetooth for 24 hours without recharging;
- fast charging (no more than 1 hour);
- excellent sound insulation.
Flaws:
- high price category (from 7,000 rubles);
- difficulty in searching for acquisition.
Judging by the reviews of Sennheiser RS 160 owners, this equipment allows you to listen to tracks with the highest comfort. Headphones of this model are suitable for every type of music.
5 Best DJ Headphones
For the occasion
Should you choose wireless earbuds or powerful monitor headphones? Here is a brief overview of modern models.
Earbuds
In-ear headphones have a flattened speaker output surface. A compact membrane is usually weak in transmitting low frequencies. The devices are inserted into the ear and held in place by the elasticity of the skin. It is important to choose the size of the device - very large ears will fall out of small ears and cause pain.
Pros:
- Low price is the main argument in favor of earbuds.
- Compact - the headphones are almost invisible in the ears.
- Versatility - they are suitable for listening to music both at home and on the street.
Flaws:
- Periodically fall out of the ear.
- They often transmit a narrow range of sound.
- Low sound insulation. If you like to listen to music loudly, people nearby will know what song is currently playing on your player.
7 Best In-Ear Headphones
Where to wear: Oma, on the street while walking. They are inconvenient for jogging and sports due to frequent falling out.
Vacuum
Vacuum headphones got their name due to the way they are attached to the ear - there is an empty capsule in the silicone pad, when inserted into the ear, the air is partially removed and it is “sucked” to the shell. This also provides excellent sound insulation and complete immersion in music.
Pros:
- Autonomy of sound without discomfort to others.
- Reliable fit in the ear for most people.
- Powerful bass that makes the sound spacious.
- Average price category (depending on the manufacturer).
Flaws:
- Risk of hearing damage from loud listening. The waves directly enter the ear canal without filtering and dampening the sound power naturally, so you cannot overdo it with the volume. The number of music sessions should be limited in time.
- Need for care (earwax accumulates in the capsule, which needs to be removed).
9 best vacuum headphones
Where to wear: ideal for listening to your favorite tracks in a noisy city. True, this hides a danger - a loss of sensitivity to space due to complete immersion in sound. The earplugs will not fall out of your ears when playing sports.
Invoices
These are headphones that are placed on the ear and are held in place by fixing earbuds on the auricle or on the back of the head. They are convenient for home use or for listening to music outside in the warm season - in winter they are uncomfortable to wear under a hat.
Pros:
- The enlarged diaphragm provides a wide range of sound.
- Does not damage the hearing organs.
- Average sound insulation.
- Comfortable sound.
Flaws:
- The cost of overlays is higher than that of liners.
- For budget models, the latches are made of fragile plastic. If the arm breaks, you have to get it repaired or change the accessory.
5 best on-ear headphones
Where to wear: Suitable for indoor and outdoor use with any portable equipment.
Monitor headphones
Full-fledged headphones with large overlays are used mainly at home when listening to music from a computer, for communicating via Internet telephony and social networks; any self-respecting gamer has such devices.
Pros:
- The best technical characteristics thanks to a powerful internal device and a large membrane.
- Maximum sound insulation with soft lining along the contour. There are models with holes in the ear pads.
- Good models have a built-in sound director that adjusts the basic sound characteristics for comfortable listening.
Flaws:
- high price.
5 best over-ear monitor headphones
Where to wear: home and studio use.
The best closed-back over-ear headphones
On-ear headphones are the hardware “brother” of full-size “ears”, differing from them in weaker noise insulation. However, the mobility of on-ear headphones is slightly higher than that of their on-ear counterparts. There are two types of these devices: open and closed. Note that the classification based on the criteria of “openness” and “closedness” is used for all types of headphones, but it is in relation to over-ear devices that this indicator plays the greatest role.
Beats EP On-Ear
Beats EP On-Ear and models of the “SOLO” series are an analogue of the Sennheiser RS 160, but among on-ear headphones. They can be characterized exclusively on the positive side, but, of course, it is important to understand that you will have to fork out for quality.
Advantages:
- high quality (work stably for at least a year of operation);
- high comfort of use;
- sensitivity of 105 dB and sound quality of the highest quality;
- nice design;
- presence of basic control buttons and microphone;
- support for most modern devices that work with Mini-Jack 3.5 mm;
- excellent sound insulation;
- ease of search for purchase.
Flaws:
- high price category (from 5,000 to 15,000 rubles).
Beats products have always been distinguished by excellent sound, so if this indicator is a priority, you should choose it.
How to set up headphones for high-quality sound reproduction
Skullcandy Hesh 2
These headphones are capable of rocking any media. They are compatible with any gadgets, equipped with a high-quality microphone and a standard 3.5 mm audio jack located on a 1.2 meter long wire.
5 advantages:
- The conical shape of the headphones is not only an original appearance. This solution allows you to completely close the ear and securely fix the structure, preserving the entire frequency spectrum.
- Good assembly ensures high durability: even over time, the headphones do not creak, and the headband does not stretch.
- Excellently balanced spectrum of reproduced frequencies and a high degree of detail. When creating Skullcandy Hesh 2, we used proprietary drivers with a diameter of 50 mm. They provide a power reserve of one hundred megawatts and frequency reproduction in the range of 20 Hz-20 kHz.
- A high-quality microphone transmits voice without distortion. This model can be used as a headset for a smartphone, as well as for a PC, which will be useful for gamers.
- There is a controller - it is convenient to respond to calls and manage the track list.
The best open-back over-ear headphones
Sony MDR-ZX660AP
Sony MDR-ZX660AP are very comfortable open-back on-ear headphones. Made in a good style, reliable and high quality in work. Definitely worthy of the attention of all music lovers.
Advantages:
- average cost (up to 2,500 rubles);
- optimal quality (work stably, on average, about 8-12 months);
- comfort in operation;
- sensitivity up to 105 dB and excellent sound;
- stylish design;
- equipped with a microphone and buttons for volume control;
- compatibility with almost all devices capable of reproducing sound using Mini-Jack technology;
- ease of search for purchase.
Flaws:
- there are some problems in sound insulation and assembly.
Judging by user reviews, the devices are suitable for lovers of absolutely all types of music. This is largely due to the good “bass” and clear sound of these headphones.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
This option deserves the attention of music lovers, DJs and sound engineers. Professional monitoring: pre-mixing a track, working with a mix in a home or professional studio, at live performances - almost nothing is impossible with these headphones.
Note: The user receives three replacement leads with the device.
What's good:
- Comfortable . The model is equipped with a soft headband and pleasant-to-touch ear pads located on rotating cups. You can work or relax without removing your headphones for several hours.
- Excellent noise isolation . Extraneous sounds do not bother you at all.
- Studio sound . The Audio-Technica ATH-M50X will easily reveal all the details of high studio quality material that goes far beyond the usual standards. At the output, the user receives 1600 mW of maximum power with a frequency range of 15 Hz to 28 kHz and the purest sound with stunning detail.
- Convenient to carry . The headphones can be easily transported due to the detachable cable.
The disadvantages of the device include the lack of a microphone. However, this drawback is conditional, since the headphones are not positioned as gaming ones.
The best monitor (custom) headphones
Monitor or custom headphones are advanced over-ear and full-size devices. These “ears” are intended exclusively for use in professional recording studios. Regarding monitor headphones, there is not even a hint of portability, but their sound quality and purity are the best among all possible ones.
Westone ES60
Perhaps, Westone ES60 is the most typical and high-quality type of “custom” today. Quality of work and excellent assembly – what else can you get from monitor headphones?
Advantages:
- excellent quality (3 year warranty);
- easy to use;
- sensitivity of 120 dB and the best sound quality possible;
- decent design;
- compatibility with most modern devices that reproduce sound through a 3.5 mm Mini-Jack connector;
- relatively easy to find for purchase (which is rare for “custom” cars).
Flaws:
- high price (from 90,000 rubles).
If you have a need for professional headphones, then you can choose this device without hesitation. Almost all users note that in the field of custom devices, the Westone ES60 is difficult to find a match for.
5 Best Bone Conduction Headphones
Characteristics
Now about the numbers. On any headphone package you can find various designations of characteristics that are not always clear. How to navigate them?
Frequency range, Hz
The frequency range will tell you how big the sound will be. The quality of reproduction of acoustic shades depends on the membrane, which vibrates at different frequencies. It is believed that the higher it is, the better. But our ears are capable of perceiving only a certain range of vibrations, so it is optimal to choose the parameter 15,000…20,000 Hz.
The characteristics of some branded models also include other ranges, increased to a smaller or larger direction - this is marketing and nothing more. Your ears simply will not hear these sounds, although the manufacturer, most likely, is not deceiving and the device really corresponds to the parameter.
Power, mW
This parameter reflects the device's ability to transmit sound from the source in full or insufficient volume. The ideal situation is the resonance of the power of the headphones and the player. That is, for a telephone, player and computer, the listening device must be selected individually, taking into account the megawatts produced by the source and the receiving units of the headphones.
You cannot allow a situation of dissonance in favor of the source - the working mechanism in your favorite drops or plugs will fly out after the first listen.
The power of the headphones is indicated on the packaging and ranges from 1...5000 mW. A similar value should be indicated in the characteristics of the playback technology (tablet, phone, etc.).
Sensitivity
Do you like your music louder? Choose headphones with a device sensitivity of about 100 dB, but no more - intense sounds and loud sounds quickly deteriorate your hearing, which leads to corresponding health problems.
Sensitivity determines the playback volume. The lower it is, the clearer the music and the safer, clearer its sound.
What affects the sensitivity of headphones and which is better?
Impedance
Simply put, it is the resistance of the entire device; the parameter includes the operation of both the sound-reproducing device itself and the wires.
In order for the sound to reach the ear normally, it is necessary to select headphones, again, according to the characteristics of the source - its power must be sufficient. Recommended impedance:
- For phones, various players and computers, and other mobile equipment, it is optimal to choose 16-80 Ohm headphones;
- 200...300 Ohms are devices for working with professional equipment that produces high output power.
If you choose the wrong impedance, you won’t get good sound: studio headphones with a phone, computer and player will sound quiet, but regular ones in the studio will sound unclear, you will need an additional amplifier.
You should know: the more Ohms, the cleaner and louder the sound with the appropriate source power.
Distortion
In pursuit of headphones that convey sound exactly as it was in a recording studio or chamber orchestra, many music lovers are ready to move mountains. All you need to do is find out the amount of wave distortion - it should be indicated in the product characteristics.
The lower the percentage of distortion, the purer and more accurate the sound. An ideal picture is 1-5%, more is cheaper, but it is also audibly different from the original.
The best sports headphones
Sports headphones are often presented as in-ear devices. They differ from conventional devices of their type only in that they have special ear mounts. This arrangement of the headphones allows you to use them during active sports and not have to worry about them getting lost or constantly falling off.
Monster iSport Victory
Monster iSport Victory – in-ear headphones for sports. One of the best of its kind, which is confirmed by exclusively positive reviews and huge sales of this device.
Advantages:
- high reliability (1 year warranty);
- easy to use, ear mounts do not rub the skin at all;
- sensitivity of 110 dB and excellent sound quality;
- sporty design;
- connection via Mini-Jack 3.5 mm;
- ease of search for purchase.
Flaws:
- high price (from 3,500 rubles).
Perhaps, for playing sports with any kind of music, the Monster iSport Victory headphones are the best option today.
Original or copy
How to distinguish original Beats headphones from fakes
When choosing branded headphones, you don’t want to overpay for a fake, which can be found even in large chain stores. What to pay attention to:
1. Price. Before going to the store, visit the official website of the manufacturer - it probably has the prices of the goods. The price from product sellers should not differ greatly from that indicated in the source. Especially downward.
2. Quality of packaging. Fonts and soldered seams must be smooth. Particular attention to the text - in the originals it is smooth, without grammatical or spelling errors, letters and numbers do not “jump”.
3. Visual assessment of the appearance of the headphones: the wires do not stick out, there are no gaps in unexpected places.
4. Sound quality can often only be checked after purchase. Often the original and the fake can be heard even by an unprofessional ear.
5. A seller who has nothing to hide will provide documents for the goods.
It is possible to more deeply distinguish a fake from the original only in an independent expert laboratory.
The best gaming headphones
Gaming headphones are a category of devices for true gamers, distinguished by those properties that are simply necessary for comfortable playing computer “toys”.
A4Tech Bloody G501
A4Tech Bloody G501 are, according to many gamers, the best headphones for computer games. They are produced by a company specializing in the creation of gaming devices, so there is no doubt about the quality of the products.
Reviews Review
Advantages:
- high quality (1 year warranty);
- easy to use, full-size headphones with a good headband;
- sensitivity of 105 dB and excellent sound quality (there is a surround sound function);
- Beautiful design;
- presence of volume control;
- connection via USB port;
- ease of search for purchase.
No deficiencies identified.
Most likely, for playing computer games and periodically listening to tracks, it will not be easy to find something better than the Bloody G501.
Classification
Headphones are also divided into other types.
Stereodynamic
So:
- Such headphones are equipped with sound emitters, the design of which is similar to the emitters of household loudspeakers;
- A special membrane is responsible for sound transmission in such headphones. It interacts with the coil;
- The principle of operation of these headphones can be imagined as follows: when an electric current passes through the coil, it begins to oscillate and move the membrane. In this case, sound waves are generated;
- Stereo dynamic headphones are the most popular headphones these days. They are convenient and do not need to be supplied with additional power; they just need to be connected to the required output of an amplifier, head unit or player.
Electrostatic
- Such devices are rarely found today. They use a very thin membrane, which has the property of being polarized using a special source. The membrane itself is located in the middle of the plates. Thus, movement occurs in an electrostatic field;
- Instant, perfect and super clear sound - this is what sets these headphones apart from the rest. But for their operation additional transformers are needed. Such headphones are valued by music lovers and audiophiles who are willing to put up with all the inconveniences as long as the sound is of high quality.
Audio-Technica ATH-AVC200
This model is intended for everyday use. The standard 3.5 mm audio interface, located on a three-meter cable, comes with a 6.3 mm adapter. Thanks to this, the headphones can be connected to all types of devices.
What's good:
- Regardless of the playback source, the Audio-Technica ATH-AVC200 sounds clear, loud and detailed. This is ensured by large emitters, 40 mm in size, with a power reserve of 500 mW, as well as a frequency range of 20 Hz-22 kHz.
- Comfortable. Thanks to the soft headband, which can be adjusted, as well as tight-fitting soft pads, there is no discomfort, pressure or headaches during prolonged use. In these “full-size” bags you can watch your favorite movies or listen to music for hours.
- The long cable does not hinder movement. A three-meter wire does not oblige the owner of the device to be close to the media carrier: the player can be put in a pocket or connected to a computer, but sit two meters away from it.
- The device does not have a microphone or controller, which is considered one of its disadvantages.
