The best headphones for listening to music: 2022's top list of the coolest, newest, loudest and most comfortable closed-back and open-back headphones by sound quality

Today the streets are crowded with young people with headphones in their ears. Everyone is passionate about music: both young and old, which is why the supply of audio devices on the market has increased so sharply. They offer headsets for every taste, from banal plugs to cool audiophile versions. But how do you choose a really good pair among such abundance? Our headphone rating will help you with this, bringing together the most prominent representatives of various categories. So, let's start getting acquainted.

Open type

Open-back headphones are designed to allow the user to perceive surrounding sounds while listening to music. They can be either earbuds or plugs, or a full-size model, where the outer and side walls allow air and sounds to pass through as much as possible.

Earbuds

Let's start our review of open-back headphones with the simplest earbuds. They are devoid of resonating components that provide external noise reduction, so the listener receives the full effect of stage sound.

CGPods Lite

pros

Low price
Moisture resistance
Surround soft sound
20 hours of work away from the socket
Convenient control from headphones

Minuses

The case is not waterproof

From 3500 ₽

Headphones from the Tyumen brand CaseGuru are moisture-resistant. This is an extremely rare option for wireless headphones - even the expensive Apple AirPods are not protected from moisture. But CGPods Lite is four times cheaper than headphones from the Apple brand.

CGPods Lite can be washed and you can shower in them. They are equipped with a so-called “anti-stress case” with a velvety coating. This case is very pleasant to turn in your hands and click the lid with a magnetic lock.

You can only purchase CaseGuru headphones and other accessories online. At a fair price directly from the manufacturer. With delivery throughout Russia, Ukraine and Belarus.

Apple AirPods 2 with Charging Case

pros

5 hours of work
voice dialing, microphone
weight 4 g
box charging for 24 hours

Minuses

volume control from phone

From 11280 ₽

Apple's most popular wireless headphones with microphones in each ear, capable of working for up to 5 hours at a time. Controlled by sensors or using Siri with voice control. As if by magic, Apple's wireless headphones have become one of the company's most popular products. The built-in noise-cancelling microphone ensures high-quality voice capture during calls.

Panasonic RP-HV094

pros

price
impedance 17 ohms
wire 1.2 m
loud noise

Minuses

no clothespin
without microphone

From 209 ₽

At this price you shouldn't expect rich sound, but Panasonic showed that you can make high-quality and reliable ears even for 200 rubles. The L-shaped plug is wear-resistant. The bass, however, only hints at its presence, but otherwise it’s an excellent model.

Plug-in

Open-type headphones reproduce mostly mid and high frequencies. Bass lovers should take a closer look at closed ear pad options. Such models are well suited for those who like to listen to classical recordings.

Sony MDR-EX450

pros

L-shaped gold plated plug
4 pairs of ear pads
adjustable wire 1.2 m

Minuses

without microphone

From 1474 ₽

Wired headphones reproduce a wide frequency range, 5-25,000 Hz, and thanks to the aluminum housing, vibrations are minimal. The length of the wire is adjusted with a slider. There is a remote control for tracks and calls. There is no microphone.

Creative EP-630

pros

impedance 16 ohms
double cord 1.2 m
Neodymium magnets
3 pairs of ear pads

Minuses

without remote control
the ear pads are falling off

From 878 ₽

A good model of headphones for a phone with a harmonious frequency distribution. If we compare it with Sony, then this one loses, and its price is lower. Gold-plated straight L-shaped plug and neodymium magnets provide great sound. But control is only from the phone.

Invoices

On-ear headphones themselves partially transmit sounds, and due to their open type, you don’t have to worry about noise absorption. Below we will compare the headphones of 2 mastodons of musical technology, Sony and Koss. Who will win? You decide.

Sony MDR-ZX660AP

pros

fabric headband
microphone
weight 193 g
Neodymium magnets

Minuses

permanent cable
1 control button

From 2504 ₽

The device gives the impression of flimsiness due to cheap plastic and rough, non-removable wire. But the sound is good, to say the least. The headband presses a little, but this is the case with almost all over-ear versions. The microphone has good audibility.

Koss Porta Pro Casual

pros

folding
weight 79 g
deep bass

Minuses

high impedance, 60 ohms
denim style

From 2190 ₽

The skeleton model will appeal to gamers. Here everything is adjusted manually: seating depth, fit. The body of these gaming headphones conveniently folds into a ring. The 1.2 m cord ends with a straight gold-plated 3.5 mm jack. A resistance of 60 ohms requires an appropriate source.

Full size

Among the full-size (covering the entire ear) models, we will take the most interesting options from the best manufacturers of headphones for music - Audio-Technica and Shure. Large ear pads provide a comfortable fit, and powerful membranes provide rich sound.

Shure SRH1440

pros

detachable cord 2.1 m
range 15-27,000 Hz
power up to 1,000 mW
replaceable pads

Minuses

weight 343 g
without microphone

From 16614 ₽

These are top-of-the-line studio headphones with a detachable Kevlar-sheathed cable. There is an adapter from 3.5 mm jack to 6.5 mm. The sound is bomb, the highs are especially audible. An impedance of 37 Ohms allows you to connect a player.

Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X

pros

range 5-30,000 Hz
power up to 500 mW
membrane 53 mm
3 m cable with 6.5 mm adapter

Minuses

clings to hair
permanent wire

From 11290 ₽

The headphones provide balanced sound with high detail. This is a good gaming or studio option. The only pity is that the cable cannot be replaced with a shorter one, otherwise everything is fine. There is no sound insulation at all, so it is better to use them at home as headphones for a computer or laptop.

Top 7 Open Mixing Headphones

Unfortunately, closed-back headphones have side effects:

When sound insulation improves, sound quality often deteriorates.
This is good for vocal recording where isolation is a top priority.

However, there are two situations where sound quality is more important than soundproofing:

when you're recording an instrument that doesn't require a microphone, such as a MIDI keyboard.
when you mix your track.

With home studios becoming common these days, mixing with headphones has become a common practice.

Open-back headphones are focused primarily on the highest sound quality at the expense of poorer sound insulation.

From all the models on the market, I have compiled a list of the top seven products that I highly recommend.

Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro

Since sound quality has the highest priority when it comes to open-back headphones, it's logical to put on this list the equipment that offers the best sound at the lowest price.

In my opinion, the Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro deserves this. For a mid-range model, they have everything you'd expect and more. Important features of these headphones:

extremely wide frequency range (5Hz-35kHz)
very clear bass
extremely comfortable

I have tested them personally, so I can vouch for the comfort of working with them.

There's nothing worse than uncomfortable headphones, but this model is well polished and extremely comfortable. Here's another popular model at a similar price.

AKG K 701

In the past, the old AKG K1000 were not only the flagship headphones in the AKG line, they were also rated in audiophile circles as the best headphones in the world.

Today, the new AKG K701 model has inherited a lot. Along with various technological improvements. For example:

This is AKG's first headphone model to use flat wire technology.
It provides better sound
Allows you to use headphones with weaker amplifiers.

You may also be interested in the fact that legendary producer Quincy Jones, the man with the most Grammy awards, created a special edition of this model: the AKG Q701. In his opinion, they have the best sound he has ever heard using headphones. So if these are the right headphones for Quincy, these are definitely the right headphones for you.

If the previous two models were too expensive, the next two will be much more affordable.

AKG K240

For beginners on a budget, there is no safer option than the AKG K240.

When you look at these headphones, you will probably be shocked that they cost less than four thousand rubles.

Another attractive feature is their “semi-open” concept, which is sort of a hybrid of traditional open-back and closed-back headphones.

So, if you're on a budget and need headphones for both recording and mixing, this model is one of the few options on the market in this price range that truly suits both activities.

I also advise you to familiarize yourself with the updated version of the AKG K240 MKII

Next on our list is another “half-open” model, which is even cheaper than the previous one.

Samson SR850

You would never think that headphones costing less than two thousand rubles could actually provide studio-quality sound, right?

However, all opinions confirm this. All those who had the opportunity to test them agree that the Samson SR850 headphones are much more expensive than their modest price. Although, you probably won't hear their name from audio equipment experts.

However, it is the SR850 that offers the same features as other headphones that cost many times more. If you're limited by your wallet, you won't find a better deal than the SR850.

And finally, we got to what we've all been waiting for. Elite luxury models.

Shure SRH1840

Have you ever listened to music on really good headphones? If not, then you should know that it's like losing your virginity for the second time. There is nothing to compare this feeling with. You can't imagine how FULL, CLEAR sound can come out of these tiny speakers.

But once you experience it, you'll realize how amazing a great pair of headphones can sound. Among the best headphones are the Shure SRH1840. A standard among audiophiles for many years, these headphones are the best choice if you want an insight into the world of high-quality luxury headphones.

The SRH1840s are very popular, but definitely pale in comparison to the next item on the list...

Sennheiser HD 650

If there is a pair of headphones in the world, it is synonymous with the highest sound quality. It's definitely the Sennheiser HD 650.

An undoubted favorite among audiophiles and professional sound engineers. These headphones probably have the most rave reviews of all the models available. I've been using them for a long time, and I have to admit that my favorite feature of these headphones is that unlike other models that hug your ears, these headphones have large elliptical and deep ear pads that give you the feeling that the headphones are hanging on. around your head.

This is VERY impressive.

These are probably the most comfortable headphones you will ever wear.

I left it at the end

Sennheiser HD 800

In the legendary line of open HD headphones from Sennheiser.

Over the years, many changes and improvements have been made.

In the beginning there was the classic HD600
Later, as we have already seen, improved HD650 appeared
Recently the HD700 appeared on the market without success

And their latest product is perhaps the perfect Sennheiser HD800. Although they have only recently been on the market, they are quickly gaining popularity. I'm guessing their reputation will soon overtake the classic HD650.

That's why:

Despite the absurd price, they received an unprecedented amount of praise from enthusiastic listeners. Many reviews come from customers who traded in their previous HD600 or HD650 for these headphones... The shocking conclusion is that the HD800 is superior to BOTH previous versions.

Therefore, if you want an ABSOLUTE solution to all your headphone related problems, I wholeheartedly recommend this model to you.

Closed type

Many people believe that the best headphones for music are closed models. After all, the ear pads in them are created in such a way as to isolate the listener as much as possible from extraneous noise. We won’t argue: there is no comrade according to taste and color. We’ll just list the most worthy closed-back headphones of various variations.

Earbuds

Among the earbuds, we invite you to compare the characteristics of Bluetooth ears and their wired counterpart. Some transmit sound quickly, but require you to constantly carry a smartphone, while others allow freedom of movement (approx. 10 m), but slightly “slow down” sound transmission.

Sennheiser MX 170

pros

impedance 32 Ohm
volume 109 dB
L-shaped cord 1.2 m
ear pads

Minuses

thin wire
no microphone, remote control

From 329 ₽

The headphones are equipped with removable ear pads for greater sound insulation. The wire, according to users, is flimsy and gets dull in the cold. But it has a normal length, although the track control panel and microphone are missing. The sound is average for the class.

Canyon CNS-SBTHS1

pros

resistance 16 ohms
6 hours of work via Bluetooth
convenient remote control
3 pairs of ear pads

Minuses

signal disappears

From 890 ₽

A modern bluetooth headset that is suitable for sports. The manufacturer claims a battery life of 6 hours, users say that 3 hours is the limit. Strong, fits tightly in the ears, music is 4-ku. The connection periodically disappears.

Plug-in

Among closed-back in-ear headphones, the top includes models from Sennheiser and Fostex. Candidates were selected based on sound quality and reliability. Sound insulation was not the last criterion.

Sennheiser IE 40 Pro

pros

build quality
wire 1.3 m
4 types of ear pads
good sound

Minuses

no microphone

From 6983 ₽

This model is new for 2022. The company has released completely new headphones, not similar to the previous model. The body has been enlarged, and a mount behind the ears has appeared with free rotation of the wire. The sound is clear, without distortion. Bass is audible, but not prominent.

Fostex TE-04

pros

microphone, remote control
power up to 5 mW
detachable cable
4 pairs of ear pads

Minuses

thin braided cord

From 3717 ₽

Judging by the sound, here it is balanced. Conversations over the microphone are also not satisfactory; its location is just right. It's good that the cable is removable, otherwise the original one is too thin.

Invoices

The editors chose the unbreakable Urbanears Plattan 2 headphones and a beautiful pair of Onkyo H500M as the best closed-back over-ear models. Both leaders are lightweight, wired, with acceptable sound quality.

Urbanears Plattan 2

pros

design
iPhone support
detachable cable
strong

Minuses

the rim fabric gets smeared
no volume control

From 2189 ₽

In this model of headphones for iPhone, the high frequencies are slightly overestimated, which is corrected by the equalizer settings. The headband presses on the head, like almost all false ears. The build quality is simply excellent, the cables (2) are braided with fabric. The remote control, however, does not have a volume control: a flaw.

Onkyo H500M

pros

stylish, foldable
low impedance, 16 ohms
range 7-40,000 Hz
cord 3.5 m

Minuses

no volume settings
broken temples

From 6399 ₽

These headphones easily play audio files from any players due to their low impedance, and also play music in the range of 7-40 thousand Hertz. The cord is long, replaceable, but without volume control. The rim is fragile and requires care.

Full size

Full-size closed ears are the very creation that will allow you to enjoy clear sound without extraneous noise and the risk of damaging your eardrum with too loud music. Plus: no one can hear what's playing in their ears.

Pioneer SE-MS5T

pros

range 9-40,000 Hz
beautiful
microphone, remote control
full sound

Minuses

weight 290 g
plastic fasteners

From 3688 ₽

Let's start with the cons. For large cups, they are secured with plastic clips, which often break. The service does not fix them. The rest is just positives. Playback requires individual settings, but then plays perfectly. The isolation in these noise-canceling headphones is 5-star.

Sony MDR-7506

pros

convenient for work
Neodymium magnets
clear sound of instruments

Minuses

acid HF

From 6950 ₽

This model is intended for studio work. The impedance of 63 Ohms and the 6.3 mm adapter with gold-plated contacts are proof of this. Each instrument is clearly distinguishable, but frequencies of 4-7 Hz sound slightly acidic. These are some of the best headphones.

The best in-ear and vacuum headphones

Westone W10

Rating:5.0

with microphone
intracanal
reinforcing
operating time 8 hours
sensitivity 122 dB

Average price: RUB 22,990

The headphones open the Westone W line, which consistently includes models from W10 to W80, excluding W70. The first thing to consider is that the W10 has a behind-the-ear wearing style. To put them on correctly, insert the earphone with the cable facing up and place it behind your ear.

The design is classic for in-ear headphones. Strict black plastic causes neither rejection nor delight.

The initial model plays well even when connected to a smartphone or home PC. It is inferior to the older ones in terms of the number of drivers. There is only one built into it, and therefore the lower bass is played worse than on the W30 or W50. However, in its price category, the “ten” looks decent.

Shure SE425

Rating:4.9

intracanal
reinforcement, number of drivers: 2
sensitivity 109 dB
impedance 20 ohms
mini jack 3.5 mm connector with detachable cable

Average price: RUB 16,490

Dual-driver headphones, suitable for listening to music from a smartphone. Compared to the described models, which require additional equipment, these become a salvation for the average listener.

As is typical for Shure, noise insulation is excellent. It manifests itself especially well when using foam nozzles. Mid tones sound clear and correct, but the bass isn't strong enough. It depends on personal preference whether these headphones are right for you or not. Opinions about this model are divided into two camps, so it’s worth trying it out for yourself.

Sennheiser IE 80S

Rating:4.8

intracanal
dynamic
sensitivity 116 dB
impedance 16 ohms
mini jack 3.5 mm connector with detachable cable

Average price: RUB 18,990

Unlike the two models described above, these wired headphones have bass adjustment. Their sound meets the needs of ordinary amateurs and strict audiophiles. It combines brightness and precision with dynamism.

A nice feature is that the ears do not get tired after long use. The set includes 9 replacement ear pads. Finding the ones that suit you won’t be difficult. If desired, you can also replace the cable.

The main disadvantages are demands on the source and ambiguous positioning. A connoisseur will pay extra and buy better headphones, while an ordinary music lover will regret wasting money listening to music from his phone. Finally, harsh and pronounced bass may not be to everyone's taste.

Dunu Titan 3

Rating:4.7

intracanal
dynamic
sensitivity 110 dB
impedance 16 ohms
mini jack 3.5 mm connector with detachable cable

Average price: RUB 7,941

Steel body, intelligent monitor sound and comfortable fit. This combination tips the balance between price and quality towards the latter.

The sound can be changed depending on the attachments. Black ones give a realistic, dense sound, red ones – more detailed and bright, foam ones – smooth and soft. The model is perfect for connoisseurs of jazz and classical music. For lovers of bass and low tones, Titan 5 from the same manufacturer is more suitable.

The disadvantages include the almost complete absence of a virtual stage.

Whizzer A15 pro

Rating:4.6

intracanal
sensitivity 98 dB
impedance 16 ohms
mini jack 3.5 mm connector with detachable cable
weight 8.9 g

Average price: 6,950 rub.

Universal model. It is characterized by moderate sound, which justifies its cost. Sufficient bass does not drown out other frequencies. The design is compact and sleek.

However, the A15 pro has its unfortunate moments. You can't call them ergonomic. After sudden movements or turns of the head, the headphones fly out, although inserting them tightly into the ear is not an easy task. You always want to press and insert them more securely, although they have already taken their position. Users also note the low-quality wire that comes with the factory equipment.

Semi-open type

Semi-open headphones are a reasonable compromise between open and closed versions. They don't make your ears so tired when used for a long time, but sound insulation will be present to some extent. Below we will consider insert, overhead and full-size options.

Plug-in

The best in-ear, semi-open headphone models are usually made from metal: it is more reliable than plastic and does not create audio interference. As a result, sound quality improves. We present the semi-professional device Dunu Titan 5 and a simpler option, Onkyo E700M.

Dunu Titan 5

pros

ergonomics
choice of ear pads
6.3 mm jack adapter
removable cable 1.2 m with remote control

Minuses

no microphone

From 6105 ₽

The ear-friendly headset features a titanium membrane and delivers clear sound. The bass is clearly audible, no adjustments with equalizers or other enhancers are needed: put it on and listen. The remote control does not have a microphone, this is a mistake, but not critical.

Onkyo E700M

pros

fit tightly in the ears
double wire
instruments can be heard clearly

Minuses

no volume control

From 3799 ₽

This model does not strain your ears if you listen to music for a long time. Good sound of different genres, from rock to jazz and classical, even when using a smartphone. Yes, the volume is adjustable from the player, but this is the only negative.

Invoices

Due to the shape and size of the ear pads, over-ear headphones fit the definition of a semi-open headset. They do not completely cover the pinna, allowing external sounds to reach the user's hearing. Wired and Bluetooth models have been selected for testing.

Nobby Comfort B-215

pros

touch control
Bluetooth and wire
15 hours of autonomy

Minuses

microphone is weak

From 989 ₽

If you need to buy a wireless headset for watching movies, then this is an excellent choice. The ears provide a stable connection even through 2 walls and sudden movements. The microphone works at 3, the music is also not pleasing with its depth.

SmartBuy Trio

pros

bright
headband adjustment
sound without distortion

Minuses

no volume control, microphone
put pressure on the ears

From 424 ₽

The headphones are suitable for teenagers or girls with small heads: the headband compresses very much. And acidic colors speak about the purpose of the accessory. You can't talk on the phone in them. The sound is not bad, but it can only be adjusted by the player.

Full size

Large semi-open headphones are good because, thanks to the presence of holes in the body, the ears and head have the opportunity to rest when wearing the accessory for a long time. Plus, you can hear what’s going on around you without being too overloaded with sounds from the device.

Fostex T60RP

pros

headband adjustment
cord 1.5 m
adapter 6.3 mm
gold plated connectors

Minuses

weight 380 g

From 22490 ₽

Professional model with a resistance of 50 Ohms and a maximum power of 3000 mW. Very picky about the quality of audio media. Gives a super wide scene with crisp detail. The ears do not get tired at all, despite the weight.

Axelvox HD242

pros

detachable cable
adapter 6.3 mm
sound transmission

Minuses

ears are sweating

From 2534 ₽

Inexpensive headphones with good sound and gold-plated contacts. They are suitable for home audio mixing. Lightweight, only 222 g, does not weigh on your head. Sound with a wide stage, rich bass. The downside is the leatherette ear pads.

How to choose good wired headphones

The headset is selected based on the purpose of use. They are conventionally divided into categories:

Sports – reliable fit, moisture protection, noise reduction, strong cable are desirable – plugs, earbuds, devices with a neckband are suitable. Consider options with an ear mount and a clip for attaching to clothing.
Computer work , games, communication - any convenient model that is satisfied with the sound quality and microphone, a device with a large headband and ear pads that cover the ears will do. Sound insulation is desirable so that surrounding relatives or colleagues do not hear drumming and screaming. It is provided by semi-open and closed models.
Listening to music on the street - a headset with noise reduction (preferably active) and a semi-closed design. Closed ones that completely isolate the user from the sounds of the outside world are not worth purchasing for use on city streets. As an option - vacuum ones: they have sound and noise insulation, and fit securely in the ears.

With regular use, special attention is paid to the convenience of the design: soft ear pads, tight fit, weight that does not cause fatigue during prolonged use.

The rating of wired headphones is compiled primarily based on technical and operational characteristics. Among the main ones:

Frequency range - the ear of a young person distinguishes acoustic vibrations within the range of 20 Hz - 20 kHz, in an elderly person the range narrows. There are models with an extended frequency range, but there is no danger in this.
Sensitivity - shows the ratio of the volume of the speakers and the level of the signal supplied to them: the higher the value, the louder the sound.
Power – more powerful devices demonstrate rich, spatial sound and consume more energy.
Resistance (can be called impedance) - for smartphones and players, choose a lower value (they will not cope with high-impedance models) - a maximum of 32 Ohms, for a laptop and PC - from 32 Ohms.
Uniform frequency response - the more uniform it is, it contains fewer drops, the more balanced and accurate the speakers transmit sound over the entire frequency range.
Microphone – sound quality should be checked in the store.
Sound insulation - sound should not enter the surrounding space, causing discomfort to others.
Distortion (expressed as a percentage) - the lower the number, the cleaner and closer to the real, intended sound.
Noise insulation – prevents the penetration of outside noise to the ears. There are passive - implemented due to the tight fit of the ear pads or deep immersion of the plug into the ear - and active - specially generated sound dampens outside noise.

The most expensive

Here we will look at a Hi-End headset from Shure, capable of working autonomously and with a wire, as well as professional full-size headphones from Beyerdynamic. And for a snack, let’s introduce the universal Westone W60 plugs with ideal sound insulation.

Shure SE846

pros

impedance 9 ohms
4-way
detachable cables
sound insulation 37 dB
Bluetooth up to 8 hours

Minuses

short cable

From 31350 ₽

Hi-End class headphones have 4 armature drivers, which ensures clear reproduction of low, mid and high frequencies, but especially bass (2 drivers). They work both with a wire and autonomously. Compatible with all devices.

Beyerdynamic T 5p

pros

range 5-50,000 Hz
distortion 0.05%
3 m extension cable, aircraft adapter
professional sound

Minuses

weight 350 g
permanent thin wire

From 55550 ₽

This full-size headset delivers highly detailed audio with a wide frequency range. A separate musical instrument and voice intonations are clearly audible, and the nuances of sound are captured. The rim doesn't press. A non-removable wire is bad.

Westone W60

pros

reinforcement, 6 drivers
100% soundproofing
loud
detachable wire
replaceable body pads, ear pads

Minuses

pads break
the price bites

From 58851 ₽

Despite their size, these earbuds are the most expensive headphones in the review. It cannot be otherwise: there are as many as 6 drivers here, bringing the sound to crystal clarity. In-ear position and 25 dB isolation allow you to fully enjoy your music.

The most powerful (loudest)

Loud music lovers find it difficult to find a really good headset. Most often, headphones sin by going into the upper frequencies, and the bass shamefully falls flat. Or worse: as the volume increases, the sound blurs, turning into a hoarse mess. But not in our case.

Focal Listen

pros

sit comfortably
remote control, microphone and replacement cable
surround sound

Minuses

twist lock connector

From 9990 ₽

The French make high-quality ears that you can’t find fault with. Even the fact that not every cable is suitable to replace the one included in the kit (1.2 m) does not spoil the picture. They sit perfectly, there is no interference, the music is just fire! 122 dB of pure pleasure.

Beyerdynamic DT 1350

pros

129 dB
won't break
light, 174 g
cable 1.5 m

Minuses

permanent cable

From 22989 ₽

The metal case with metal fasteners is incredibly reliable, and at the same time lightweight. Sits on your head like a glove. The sound is clear, without dips or jumps, with rich bass. The only question is the reliability of the wire.

Westone W10

pros

reinforcing
detachable cable 1.28 m, cord for iPhone
10 pairs of ear pads, screwdriver
power 122 dB

Minuses

1-way

From 13340 ₽

The headset has a braided wire, reinforcement structure and in-ear placement. Sound insulation is 25 dB, which is quite decent. There is no distortion of the melody, as far as possible with the 1st driver. Overall, a good model for the hobbyist.

Advantages and disadvantages of budget models

Advantages:

Inexpensive cost.
As a rule, the best price/quality ratio.
If they break, don't mind. New headphones from the inexpensive segment can be purchased for less than the cost of repairing expensive ones.
No overpayment for the brand.
Cheaper consumables and components.
If you are not a music lover, you most likely will not hear the difference between devices with a low price and a high one.

Flaws:

Maybe you'll be unlucky. Yes, many cheap models are quite good. Many, but not all. Remember this when you are planning to buy an unknown “Chinese product” without reviews.
Lack of service. Most likely, you will not find a company that will repair your device under the factory warranty.
Not the best design. Well-known brands pay very close attention to design, which cannot be said about little-known ones.

The strongest

One of the most common problems with headphones is their simple breakdown. A physical lock of a non-removable cord can send even a high-quality headset to the trash heap. The most wear-resistant models are listed below.

Denon AH-D7200

pros

aluminum frame
walnut and leather cups
copper cable, detachable, 3 m
power up to 1 80 mW

Minuses

weight 385 g
narrow stage

From 62990 ₽

The beautiful wood and metal ears are assembled from quality materials, including wire, a new generation 50mm nanofiber diaphragm to minimize resonance. The seating position is comfortable. The sound of the music is magical, but the vocals are not so great. The stage is a bit narrow.

Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro

pros

twisted detachable 3-m cord
Neodymium magnets
adapter 6.3 mm
sound balance

Minuses

pressed hard against the ears

From 32446 ₽

The headphones provide highly detailed sound, which makes it easy to mix, and all the flaws are visible. Sound insulation is good, but the headband is narrow and puts pressure on the ears. Replaceable ear pads change the way you experience music.

Marshall Mid Bluetooth

pros

steel and leather
work via Bluetooth and wired
fold up
30 hours of autonomy

Minuses

with Bluetooth the midrange drowns
ears are pinched

From 6899 ₽

An omnivorous model that pairs with any audio media. The disadvantage is that every time you connect to Bluetooth you have to re-set the settings; there is no memory. The rim puts a lot of pressure on your head. The sound is smooth, without sudden jumps.

Professional (audiophile)

So we got to the audiophile models. Let's take a closer look at the devices that allow you to feel the sound of even a distant violin in the 6th row of a large academic orchestra. Targeted: Audeze LCD-X, OPPO PM-2 and HiFiMAN Sundara.

Audeze LCD-X

pros

membranes 106 mm
Neodymium magnets
2.5 m cable with 6.3 mm adapter
power 130 dB

Minuses

without microphone
weight 600 g

From 100,000 ₽

This on-ear model uses patented planar conductor technology to produce spacious, almost holographic sound. It doesn't lose its purity at any volume. Music sounds natural. But the weight of the device is too big.

OPPO PM-2

pros

planar
sit comfortably
detachable wire
swing quickly

Minuses

weight 395 g
cord 1 m thin

From 55000 ₽

Open-type headphones allow you to experience the sound with virtually no distortion, with high detail. They sit comfortably on the head. They are picky about the quality of the media: they immediately reveal all the failures and other nuances.

HiFiMAN Sundara

pros

range 6-75,000 Hz
metal structure of rim, cups
detachable cord 1.5 m
impedance 37 ohms

Minuses

no soundproofing

From 40990 ₽

The overhead open model suggests that you will listen to music alone, because there is no sound insulation here. The cups are narrow and rotate only in the horizontal plane. Frequencies are balanced; the sound is closer to neutral.

Why do you need headphones for your phone?

I think everyone understands the portability and mobility of a phone. You can’t take your own computer on a long journey, and the age of mp-3 players is long gone. However, there is still a stereotype that the sound quality on phones leaves much to be desired. This is completely untrue. This fact was outdated five years ago, and maybe more. Today, telephones are in no way inferior to computers in sound quality, and sometimes even surpass them. Indeed, manufacturers of modern smartphones are very demanding on sound quality. The pre-installed Dolby Atmos system does not surprise the current user one bit.

New generation

Today, more and more gadgets use a wireless connection, and headphones are no exception. Below are the best Bluetooth models among closed (in-ear and on-ear headphones) and open (on-ear) types.

Sony WF-SP700N

pros

Bluetooth, microphone
water protection
miniature

Minuses

3 hours work
without volume control

From 7190 ₽

This Bluetooth headset may experience voice delay when talking or watching movies. They are good to use when playing sports: they fit tightly in the ears, do not fall out, play rono, and keep a stable connection. 3 hours of work is enough.

The favorite of the headphone line is the Sony MDR-XB950B1 model. We have prepared a review for you, where we will consider their main characteristics, pros and cons.

Bluedio T5

pros

25 hours of autonomy
active noise reduction
4 microphones
control keys
detachable cable 1.5 m

Minuses

Noise reduction interferes with listening

From 3090 ₽

The headset operates in standby mode for up to 100 hours, and with active listening to music – more than a day. The noise reduction system cuts off HF, but it can be turned off. To get rid of audio lag, connect the cable.

Awei A840BL

pros

microphone
voice dialing
water protection
4 hours work

Minuses

inconvenient locking strap
weak connection

From 1130 ₽

The model is not suitable for the city center, where there is a lot of communication interference. It works well in an apartment or forest, holds a charge for 4 hours. Suitable for sports due to its splash protection, although the headband is more of a nuisance than a secure fit for the earbuds.

Pros and cons of wired headphones

Wired headphones, compared to those operating via a radio frequency channel, have a number of advantages:

do not require a separate power source, its recharging and replacement (if these are batteries);
sound quality;
connection stability – wireless headsets are prone to loss of connection, problems with detection and recognition;
compatibility – easy to connect with any equipment;
cost and sound quality – at a similar price, sound purity is superior to wireless analogues;
compactness when storing and carrying (applies to inserts) – no need for a case.

Of the features and weaknesses of a wired headset, we note:

the presence of wires that tend to be damaged, tangled, and cause inconvenience during vigorous activity or sports;
works in close proximity (within a cable length), limited use for watching TV;
weight – wired headphones are heavier due to their design;
do not require support for technologies (audio codecs) by the headset and interface (Bluetooth).

New items

Not every new product is worthy of being mentioned. And among headphones, finding a good new model is even more difficult - there are so many mediocre products appearing. But our editors succeeded, and we are in a hurry to present them for review.

Fiio FA1

pros

design
reinforcing
weight 9 g
impedance 15 ohm
playing loudly

Minuses

cable 1.2 m

From 5954 ₽

The plug-in model has red and blue speakers. This color will appeal to children and teenagers. They practically do not require warming up, they play loudly, however, the range is medium, 20-20,000 Hz, single-channel, so there will be no wow effect.

Cowon Plenue X30

pros

reinforcing
3-driver
power up to 111 dB
detachable cable

Minuses

metal case

From 36165 ₽

The new product for 2022 has already gone on sale, but has not yet collected reviews. The sound promises to be full thanks to the all-metal body and three drivers (HF, MF, LF). But the metal will freeze in winter, which, coupled with intracanal placement, is fraught with otitis media.