Music is a universal language, and as a DJ, it’s your job to translate that language into something the audience can enjoy.
You need more than just some good taste in music; you also need equipment to help you take your talent to the next level.
This article will walk you through the best headphones for DJing currently on the market.
Don’t settle for anything less than the best quality headphones that fit within your budget.
In A Hurry? Check Out Our Top Picks Below
- High sensitivity due to lightweight aluminum coils.
- Capable of handling high sound levels.
- Lightweight and comfortable.
- High-definition bass and super-transparent highs.
- Ultra-high dynamic range.
- High-efficiency cobalt capsule.
- Advanced build quality and engineering.
- Tuned for enhanced detail.
- Excellent mid-range definition.
Sennheiser HD25
The Best Headphones For DJing
Tech Specs
Overview
It comes with no surprise that our top pick is the Sennheiser HD25.
These headphones have been the industry standard for decades, with some of the most famous DJs in the world using them, and for a good reason, of course.
This on-ear model is loud and will give you perfect sound isolation, even if you’re playing an arena!
The cups are also really spacey and will sit on your ear comfortably for hours. The swiveling cups are great for one-ear monitoring too.
Numerous parts are easily replaceable, so even when your pair starts approaching the end of their life cycle, you can add a few years to it.
The sound quality is top-notch.
When it comes to frequency ranges, there’s a good balance. The bass is loud and satisfying without being overbearing.
Over the years, I’ve had several pairs of these headphones and performed at countless gigs, and the HD25’s have never let me down.
These headphones can take a hell of a bettering and will still sound spot-on, set after set after set.
If you are serious about your DJing, these should be on top of your list!
- Extremely lightweight.
- Excellent build quality and built to last.
- All of the parts can be replaced, which prolonged the life of the headphones.
- There’s a good balance of all frequency ranges, and the bass is pretty satisfying.
- Good isolation.
- While the size is great for transport, the small ear cups might be too small for some.
- The cups can sometimes slip off the headband.
Sennheiser Pro Audio HD 25
- Lightweight and comfortable, even if used for long periods of time.
- Handles high sound pressure levels.
- High sensitivity due to lightweight aluminum voice coils
AUDIO TECHNICA ATH M50X
The Best Headphones For Bass
Tech Specs
Overview
I’ll start things off by saying these are a fantastic set of headphones for DJing. Audio Technica needs no introduction; It’s one of the most well-known audio companies in the world. The ATH-M50x has been a go-to model for DJs worldwide, and it’s easy to see why.
While other brands tend to over-blow the lows, the bass is just right to help you with beat-matching. Even though the headphones are durable, the detachable cable allows you to replace them quickly if anything goes wrong.
If you’re looking for a stylish pair of headphones, you’re in luck because the ATH0M50x comes in a variety of colors. Add to that the inclusion of a carry case and a coiled and straight cable; you are getting an excellent package for your money.
- It doesn’t have an overbearing bass like other brands; this will help with beat-matching.
- The cable is detachable and lockable.
- Solid construction and comes in a wide variety of colors.
- While the headphones work great for DJing, they aren’t ideal for studio work.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X
- Critically acclaimed sonic performance.
- Exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range.
- 90-degree swiveling earcups for easy one-ear monitoring.
Beats Studio3 Wireless
The Best Wireless Headphones For DJing
Tech Specs
Overview
Are you looking for something more luxurious? Do you want a top design?
Then Apple’s Beats Studio3 is what you need to check out. The slim and stylish design will get you noticed by your peers and audience members.
Since Studio3 is a wireless headphone, you won’t have to worry about getting your cable lost or damaged while you’re doing a set.
But is that all? Are you just getting a good-looking pair of cable-less headphones?
Of course not. Studio3 is also a great performer. Even though they’re wireless, you can use the headphones for almost 6 hours at a time. During that time, you won’t even feel a slight drop in sound quality.
Moreover, the DSP software and the Dual-Noise-Cancellation system will allow you to pick the next song for your mix with no external noise, no matter how many people are at the party!
- Good Bluetooth range.
- Being noise-canceling headphones, they are great for parties as well as long-distance trips.
- Hardshell case to protect them.
- They are not cheap.
- Expensive to repair.
Beats Studio3 Wireless
- Pure adaptive noise canceling (Pure ANC) actively blocks external noise.
- Up to 22 hours of battery life enables full-featured all-day wireless playback.
- Apple’s W1 chip and industry-leading Bluetooth technology.
V Moda Crossfade M-100
The Best V-Moda Headphones For DJing
Tech Specs
Overview
For the average music listener, the name V-Moda doesn’t mean much. However – and that’s a big, HOWEVER – if you’re a DJ, then you more than likely know the name.
This model will give you great sound and confidence that your headphones won’t be damaged during a road trip.
The M-100 is built exceptionally well and will not come apart, even if they drop from a significant height.
What’s more, the folding design allows you to place the headphones in any bag.
What about performance, you might be wondering?
Well, this model has been fine-tuned by experienced audiophiles so that you can expect the cleanest bass, vivid mids, and extended high.
- The audio and build quality is fantastic.
- They allow you to daisy-chain multiple headphones.
- The carrying case that they come with is excellent.
- After an hour or so, the headphones may start feeling uncomfortable.
- They can be hard to keep on your head if you’re bouncing around.
V-Moda Crossfade M-100
- Built to Last – Metal build with a SteelFlex headband.
- Improved Sweat Resistance.
- Large memory foam cushions and a 100% vegan leather headband provide superior comfort.
Sony MDR-V55
The Best Sony Headphones For DJing
Tech Specs
Overview
Sony is a recognizable name both in and outside the DJing world. The company manufactures everything from low-end earphones to high-quality DJing headphones.
Whatever you’re looking for, chances are, you’ll find something for yourself.
The MDR-V55 is my pick for the best Sony headphones if you’re a DJ.
The model has an old-school look to it. But don’t get fooled. This is a high-end piece of technology.
It comes with a 40-millimeter driver, easily competing with other expensive models with its 5Hz to 25kHz frequency response.
You can even connect the MDR-V55 to your controller or even a keyboard without any additional technology whatsoever, which is pretty cool.
- You’ll love the mid and high-frequency range of these headphones.
- The 40mm driver is great and comes in handy in a loud environment.
- They won’t break the bank.
- Unlike the highs and the mids, the bass leaves something to be desired.
- They’re not so great for music production, only for listening and monitoring.
Sony MDR-V55
- Close-back, noise isolating design.
- Crystal clear sound at any volume.
- Foldable, swiveling reversible padded earcups.
Beyerdynamic DT-990-Pro
The Best Headphones For DJing And Music Production
Tech Specs
Overview
The next model on my list has an excellent reputation amongst fans of headphones in general. It’s also known as one of the best DJ headphones out there.
Most people notice the Beyerdynamic DT-990-Pro has a diffuse back, which allows the DJ to be aware of their surroundings while doing a set.
The earpieces are covered in memory foam. That allows the user to keep the headphones on for hours at a time.
The sound is excellent, and they’re a single-sided, detachable cable that allows you to take your headphones off without getting tangled. Just be aware that all of this comes at a high price.
- The Beyerdynamic technology gives you an immaculate sound, even in loud conditions.
- You have ambient noise reduction that’s great when dealing with crowds.
- The headband is quite flexible, and the headphones have 90-degree swivel ear cups.
- For the price, they don’t isolate the sound quite as well as other headphones on our list.
- They aren’t the prettiest-looking headphones out there.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO
- Open over-ear headphones, ideal for professional mixing, mastering, and editing.
- Perfect for studio applications thanks to their transparent, spacious, strong bass and treble sound.
- The soft, circumaural, and replaceable velour ear pads ensure high wearing comfort.
SONY MDRV6
The Best Classic Headphones For DJing
Tech Specs
Overview
Ready for another Sony model?
The MDRV6 has been around for more than 35 years at this point; however, it has remained popular among DJs and other audio professionals.
They are an exceptionally comfortable headphone, and for a full-size model, it’s surprisingly light. You can easily fold it and carry it in your backpack.
Like many old-school models, it has a long cord, which will allow you to move around the stage during the set.
The only problem is, they’re pretty expensive. So if you’re strapped for cash at the moment, you should probably look elsewhere for a pair of headphones.
- Clean analytical sounding, so great for music production as well.
- The nano-coating will keep the headphones looking fresh for a long time.
- Topping out at 40kHz, these headphones have a vast sound stage.
- For the price range, they sound fantastic.
- Not the nicest-looking headphones.
- The ear foams could be better.
- The cable might be too long for some.
Sony MDRV6
- Neodymium magnets and 40mm drivers for powerful, detailed sound.
- Over-ear design provides comfort and outstanding reduction of external noises.
- 10-foot oxygen-free copper cord.
Behringer HPX2000
The Best Cheap Headphones For DJing
Tech Specs
Overview
These headphones are pretty famous outside the DJing world. If you were ever interested in audio production, you’ve probably come across the HPX2000.
They’re great for DJing, using as studio headphones, as well as casual listening, and for their price, they’re pretty reliable.
While some people aren’t huge fans of Behringer, the fact is that the company specializes in manufacturing quality, low-price audio equipment.
The HPX2000 is rotatable and switchable so that you can use them on either side. The headband is adjustable and rugged so that you can squeeze out a lot of working hours from it. All in all, if you’re looking for basic DJing headphones, Behringer has got you covered.
- Fantastic value for money.
- For the price, the sound quality is great.
- The headphones are pretty lightweight, which means they’re easy to transport.
- Not as durable as they look.
- The size can be difficult to adjust at times.
- Lacks some low-end.
Behringer HPX2000
- High-definition bass and super-transparent highs.
- Ultra-high dynamic range.
- High-efficiency cobalt capsule.
V-MODA Crossfade LP2
The Best Ergonomic Headphones For DJing
Tech Specs
Overview
Cool design? Check. Durability? Check. Great sound quality? Double-check. V-Moda has been able to cram a ton of things into a small package.
I’ve already used the phrase “built like a tank” well, the LP2 is built like an armored truck. With so much metal and Kevlar being used, you don’t have to worry about any snipers in the building.
Even the rubber and the plastic used are pretty durable. Of course, that’s not all. The headphones come with two cables – one with a mic and one without, meaning they can easily be used as a headset.
The lows, highs, and bass are pretty good, although not the same level as the M-100.
- Excellent build quality with a steel frame but has a flexible headband for easy adjustment.
- The headphones offer a clean bass response and have a warm low end.
- You won’t have to worry about sound leakage ever again due to solid isolation.
- Comes with an exoskeleton case and 2 fabric detachable cables.
- The LP2 is much heavier than other headphones in the same price range.
- They can’t be folded.
V-MODA Crossfade LP2
- 50mm dual-diaphragm Drivers – inner & outer rings deliver vibrant bass, vivid mids & vivacious highs without overlap.
- Passive Noise Isolation – cuts out noise.
- Quality Control – <2dB variance for strict sound consistency.
AKG K240 Studio
The Best DJ Headphones For Under $100
Tech Specs
Overview
Visually, the K240 is fantastic. The adjustable headband, coupled with the gold accents, makes the headphones a treat to look at. The design is flexible yet firm, whilst each ear cushion is plush and comfy and will allow you to work for hours.
The half-open back will help you keep a feel for your surroundings while you’re mixing.
You also have a few detachable cables, one of which is 10 feet long. The XLR input allows you to connect the headphones to several auxiliary devices.
AKG K240 gives you a flat response, which is excellent for mixing songs. That means the headphones are pretty versatile.
All in all, this is a solid pair of headphones. For less than a hundred dollars, you get a lot of bang for your buck.
- The sound quality allows you to catch a lot of song details and improve your mixing skills.
- They’re very lightweight, so they’re easily transportable and comfortable to wear.
- The build quality is pretty good, and the headphones are surprisingly sturdy.
- Well priced for a DJ starting out.
- The noise isolation isn’t anything to brag about, which isn’t great for live gigs.
- The flat response will probably not suit the taste of all of the DJs out there.
AKG Pro Audio K240 STUDIO
- Professional studio headphones.
- Semi-open.
- 3m replaceable cable.
Pioneer HDJ X10-s
The Best Pioneer Headphones For DJing
Tech Specs
Overview
Pioneer is another big brand in the world of headphones. They’re known for their high-quality audio design, for their durability, and unmatched performance. HDJ X10-S is one of their most well-known models.
Every single part of the X10 feels excellent in hand. Each ear cup is adjustable and comfortable to the touch. You can also have a wireless connection, so you don’t have to worry about relying on wires for the entirety of your set.
Pioneer has really gone to town on their design and testing, so you can rest assured you are getting a set of cans that will survive the rigors of clubland.
They don’t just look the part; these are comfortable and, most importantly, sound fantastic, which is why they are right up there as one of the best sets of DJ headphones you can get
- Well tested in production, so you won’t have to worry about durability.
- The sound quality is excellent, with a clear and crisp sound.
- They can playback Hi-Res uncompressed audio files.
- Comes with a case and two spare cables.
- Fantastic isolation in noisy environments.
- Nano coated – The first DJ headphones in the world, you can easily wipe off sweat.
- The sound may come off as flat in certain places, according to experienced users.
- They are pretty large and require a separate bag or case if you want to carry them.
- They are expensive.
- A bit plasticky considering the high price tag.
PIONEER HDJ-X10-S
- Nano coating – a world first for DJ headphones, so you can easily wipe off sweat and dirt.
- Never miss a beat as you listen in crisp, high-resolution sound.
- Comfortable to use no matter how you wear them.
AIAIAI TMA-2
The Best Modular Headphones For DJing
Tech Specs
Overview
The new AIAIAI TMA-2 HD headphones introduce modularity to the headphone world for a more sustainable experience. This feature also lets you customize your headphones however you want to be perfect for your needs.
Putting together your headphones is a breeze! Put the speaker units onto the headband with a quick push and then plug in the cables. If you want to change things up down the line, take off your old parts and replace them with something new. This won’t take any time at all.
So whether you want more bass or not, there’ll always be something for everyone.
The TMA-2 headphone has been getting rave reviews lately because it provides an excellent balance between sound quality and design.
They are also environmentally friendly due to being made from sustainable materials like recycled plastic bottles, so they minimize damage to our planet during production or disposal!
In an industry where DJs have to buy new equipment constantly, AIAIAI has created customizable headphones. They need no longer be constrained by what they can afford with this product; they can create something unique and tailored to their needs.
- Being modular gives you plenty of customization options.
- Lightweight and durable.
- Look great.
- Environmentally friendly
- The mini plugs may be difficult to lock for some people.
- Although you can use them regularly, they aren’t all that comfortable to wear
AIAIAI TMA-2 Modular
- S02 speaker units are engineered with a titanium-coated driver to reduce distortion and designed with an internal vent allowing the middle bass to be more clear and punchy.
- H02 reinforced nylon headband with full grip silicone head padding for better grip.
- E02 ear pads for closed and intense sound representation with strong bass and low-end dynamics plus high isolation.
Numark Red Wave Carbon
The Most Interesting Looking DJ Headphones
Tech Specs
Overview
Designed for the modern DJ, the Numark Red headphones both feel and look incredible.
Are you usually pretty worried about damaging your headphones while traveling to a gig? With Wave Carbon, you won’t have to worry about that ever again. They’re durable, lightweight, and convenient to transport.
Also, the leather around the earpiece looks stylish, and the padding will give you comfort.
The only problem is, the leather will make things hot after a while, so you’ll have to take them off to cool down.
Lastly, the gold-plated adapter promises good performance and long life, and the detachable cable makes things easier when you need a repair.
- Being modular gives you plenty of customization options.
- Lightweight and durable.
- Look great.
- Environmentally friendly
- The mini plugs may be difficult to lock for some people.
- Although you can use them regularly, they aren’t all that comfortable to wear
AIAIAI TMA-2 Modular
- S02 speaker units are engineered with a titanium-coated driver to reduce distortion and designed with an internal vent allowing the middle bass to be more clear and punchy.
- H02 reinforced nylon headband with full grip silicone head padding for better grip.
- E02 ear pads for closed and intense sound representation with strong bass and low-end dynamics plus high isolation.
SOL REPUBLIC Master Tracks X3
The Best Sol Republic Headphones For DJing
Tech Specs
Overview
Do you want something elegant? Here’s one of the most visually appealing pairs of DJing headphones on the market.
The X3 comes to us from the Sol Republic, and it packs a good set of sound engine speakers, which will give you strong bass.
The vocal accuracy is staggering, meaning you can even use them to record music.
These headphones were made to last. It’s made out of robust materials, which can endure thousands of hours of use. But don’t worry, the headband is still flexible.
Last but not least, the X3 comes with a 1,000-day guarantee, so if anything happens during the first three years, you’ll get a brand-new pair of headphones.
- Comfortable to wear.
- The audio is powerful, the bass is deep, and there’s little to no distortion.
- Headbands, earcups, and cables can all be easily replaced.
- Solid build quality.
- Some users will find that the X3 lacks in the mids and highs departments.
- Earpads will get hot after a while.
SOL REPUBLIC Master Tracks X3
- X3 sound engine speakers deliver powerful bass, clear highs, and supreme vocal accuracy.
- Virtually indestructible FlexTech Sound Track headband has a thousand day guarantee.
- Compatible with REMIX collection of headbands
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x
Best DJing Headphones For Beginners
Tech Specs
Overview
We featured another set of Audio-Technica headphones earlier in this article, so I feel that we should close things out with another Audio-Technica model.
The ATH-M30x is a budget version of the excellent ATH M50x, and while most of its components are cheaper, they still pack a strong punch.
The small drivers deliver a satisfying low-end. There’s no loss of clarity.
Visually, they look similar to the M50x. Even though they don’t have a removable cable, and the exposed wires aren’t ideal, all of that is still manageable if you take good care of the headphones.
These headphones are an excellent option if you are starting and don’t want to shell out megabucks.
- Decent sound range and can deliver lows without booming.
- The ear cups are comfortable, and the headband has padding for extra comfort.
- The price point is affordable; the M30x has a good balance of features for the price.
- An excellent pair of cans to get started wit
- Although affordable, they still pale in comparison to their high-quality counterparts.
- The cable is locked in place, can’t be detached, and isn’t easily replaceable.
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x
- Advanced build quality and engineering.
- 40-millimeter drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils.
- Tuned for enhanced detail, with excellent mid-range definition
Final Words
Whether you are on a tight budget or have the cash to splash, there are plenty of great options to choose from in the list above.
You might be looking for something with high-quality sound, noise isolation, wireless connectivity, or just a pair that look cool; there’s something here for everyone.
For me, it’s hard to look past the Sennheiser HD25, a set of headphones I’ve used for well over twenty years, and they have never let me down.
There’s a reason you’ll see countless professional DJs rockin’ a pair of these; they really are THAT good!
Want to connect with other music producers for help and guidance?