10 Greatest Audiophile Headphones in 2023

On the subject of audiophile headphones sound, preferences fluctuate.  Some zero-in on bass. Others go for timbre.

A pure, detailed listening expertise from headphones requires time to seek out simply the correct mix of options.

For these of you which might be explicit about your sound preferences, discovering the correct audiophile headphone could make all of the distinction.

When researching the correct headset, we selected a variety of choices; from open again to closed again, from high-end to mid-range.

We took under consideration options all sound lovers can admire — whether or not for studio work or simply to vibe out after an extended day.

High Audiophile Headphones

Our prime decisions for audiophile headphones cowl completely different budgets, in addition to sound preferences. We additionally lined key options that will help you discover the correct selection.

1. Sennheiser HD 820


Sennheiser HD 820 Headphones

  • The HD 820 delivers an unparalleled, reference-grade audiophile listening expertise in a closed…
  • Revolutionary glass reflectors and frequency absorber methods replicate the extensive open traits of…
  • 56mm Ring Radiator transducers and Glass Reflectors present whole immersion in your music with absolute…

Within the late ‘60s, family-run Sennheiser launched the primary open again headphones within the market. 

At present, it affords HD 820 headphones: closed again with an open again look due to Gorilla Glass. The glass works with Ring Radiator transducer know-how to soak up and harness sound.

You’ll get a surprisingly balanced sonic supply, minus the distortion challenges closed again headphones are recognized for.

These headphones supply a 6 – 48,000 Hz frequency response and impedance of 300 ohms for an all-encompassing sound — particularly with instrument-heavy music like classical or jazz.

They’re made to suit comfortably for lengthy put on. They’re breathable to keep away from sweaty ears.

Sennheiser headphones are dear. But, like different well-built, respected manufacturers, they’re recognized to final. 

These are splurge-worthy earphones providing a surprising sound expertise. 

2. HIFIMAN Arya


HIFIMAN Arya Headphones

  • Acoustically Invisible Stealth Magnet: In contrast to the sound waves created by a traditional magnet, the…
  • Nanometer Thickness Diaphragm A breakthrough core know-how developed by HIFIMAN and first of its type…
  • Steel and Excessive-Grade Plastic Building: HIFIMAN designed the Arya’s high-quality metallic headband with…

HIFIMAN hit the audio market in 2010 with its first providing of Planar-Magnetic headphones. 

At present, the model continues to construct on its choices with Arya, open again headphones with an identical structural design to the higher-end HIFIMAN HE1000V2.

The egg-shaped ear cups with full swivel and tilt motion, padded headband, and negligible weight (14.3 ounces) converge to create a cushty listening expertise.

HIFIMAN’s progressive asymmetrical magnet design makes use of smaller magnets. This ends in a extra light-weight really feel than different Planar-Magnetic headphones. 

A patented design, often known as the window shade system, delivers a concentrated stream of music to your ear.

The result’s a transparent, clear sonic presentation straight out of the field. You may really hear completely different layers of music and they’re delivered in a clean, evenly distributed fashion.

Frequency response vary is 8 – 65,000 HZ with impedance at 35 ohms to fight overloading of energy and supply an informal listening expertise. 

These audiophile earphones aren’t flashy. They’ve a black matte end with a distinguished grill design, subsequently the main target is on the sound high quality, not the look.

3. Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95


Bang & Olufsen Beoplay H95 Headphones

  • Get pleasure from your music longer: As much as 38 hours of playtime on a single cost, with ANC switched on. A strong…
  • Noise cancelled: Our most superior adaptive, lively noise cancellation permits you to think about the music….
  • Backbone-tingling sound: Two 40mm titanium drivers with neodymium magnets, specifically chosen and customised…

Bang & Olufsen is without doubt one of the most revered names amongst audiophiles, and Beoplay H95 is an instance of its top-tier choices. 

Its design boasts customized titanium drivers with a proprietary digital sign processing engine. This setup, designed by acoustic engineers, delivers a placing sound profile.

These are wi-fi adaptive lively noise cancelling (ANC) over-ear headphones providing as much as 38 hours of listening time on a single cost. 

They’ve a smooth design and fold for straightforward storage to tuck away in an included aluminum carrying case.

The headphones supply an enormous soundstage with a great mixture of bass and treble. Mid ranges are full and pure.

No sound leakage right here. It’s a transparent, balanced non-public listening expertise for many who are on the go for work or leisure.

To be honest they aren’t low-cost, however the sound they provide can cope with costlier choices in the marketplace.

4. Grado SR80x


Grado SR80x Headphones

  • 4th technology Grado tuned 44mm drivers, straightforward to drive 38ohm
  • Upgraded braided cable eliminates twisting and kinking, 4 conductor tremendous annealed copper wiring
  • Upgraded adjustable padded headband fabricated from artificial, vegan-friendly materials

The Grado Labs is a multi-generation, family-run enterprise in Brooklyn, New York famend for his or her stereo headphones.

Grado SR80X audiophile headphones are a part of the Status Sequence, a line of headphones with 4th technology drivers and a brand new design that brings collectively the previous and current.

At present’s SR80x is a throwback to the primary pair inbuilt 1991 however with upgrades such copper wires encased in braided cables to eradicate bunching and tangling and ship a pure audio sign.

It additionally boasts a brand new speaker design to enhance pace, cut back distortion, and harness sound integrity.

Frequency response is 20 – 20,000 Hz with an impedance of 38 ohms.

These light-weight, open again headphones make use of a dynamic transducer and are perfect for music with intricate vocals and heavy instrumentation.

These are good for audiophiles on a finances who need playback with at this time’s tech whereas having fun with a retro appear and feel. 

5. Audeze LCD-X


Audeze LCD-X Earphones

  • TRUE TO LIFE SOUND: Because of its unbelievable dynamic, nimble, impartial and clear sound signature,…
  • THE PROFESSIONAL: Lots of the present hit recordings you’ve heard have been combined on Audeze headphones…
  • PLANAR MAGNETIC DRIVERS: Massive ultra-thin 106 mm diaphragms with Audeze’s proprietary Fazor parts…

Audeze (pronounced odyssey) is a number one Planar-Magnetic headphone creator. The LCD-X is the most well-liked of the model’s choices.

These favored headphones are wanted from these on each side of the sales space — from music engineers to discriminating listeners.

In truth, a few of at this time’s hits may need been combined and produced with Audeze headphones. So, it stands to motive that the playback is destined to be as intricate as it’s correct.

These open again headphones are refined sufficient for the studio, but in addition versatile sufficient to plug into your smartphone or an exterior amplifier. 

Frequency response is 5 Hz – 20 Hz prolonged out to 50kHz, with an impedance of 20 ohms.

The design makes use of a planar driver design unique to Audeze. It employs an ultra-thin diaphragm, NASA-grade circuit materials, and double-sided magnet arrays.

The result’s an astounding lack of distortion, accuracy in sound waves, and fast response.

Briefly, you’ll get a full vary of highs and lows with an enormous soundstage expertise. Many declare to listen to delicate sounds they by no means observed in songs they’ve listened to for years.

This can be a strong choice for open again headphones. Interval.

6. Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2


Audio-Technica ATH-M50xBT2 Headphones

  • Wi-fi, on-the-go design delivers the identical critically acclaimed sonic efficiency as the unique…
  • Proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers and devoted amplifier ship distinctive readability all through…
  • Low latency mode improves synchronicity between audio and video for clean streaming and gaming

Whereas these closed again Audio-Technica headphones supply a wired fashion, we’re trying on the wi-fi set right here for a number of causes.

First, there’s no sound love misplaced within the wi-fi model. You get the identical high quality of sound and the choice to maneuver freely. 

Bonus: They collapse compactly for journey.

The ATH-M50x has been round since 2014 and stays one of the common decisions amongst audiophiles. That this iteration is mobile-friendly is a bonus.

Subsequent, the ear cups are as comfy as they’re purposeful. They embody two built-in mics. You may regulate the amount for music playback or name quantity with built-in controls proper by your ear.

Third, these are a really perfect companion to smartphones and tablets, or another Bluetooth-enabled machine that streams music. 

The wi-fi setup eliminates the necessity to discover suitable wired connections (particularly when smartphones don’t have a headphone jack).

Lastly, these headphones make use of contact know-how that means that you can faucet and maintain the ear cup to summon your voice assistant, like Alexa.

These supply a wonderful sonic profile so far as wi-fi headphones go (and for an reasonably priced worth level).

If you’re a fan of Audio Technica, you’ll be glad to know that these ship that very same signature sound: Deep bass, glorious readability, and sensible tones.

The frequency response is 15 – 28,000 Hz with impedance of 38 ohms. On a full cost, you’ll be able to anticipate as much as 50 hours of playback.

That is an eye catching selection for comfy, on a regular basis use.

7. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Professional


Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Headphones

  • PROFESSIONAL QUALITY: Good for studio and stage recordings as a result of their high-quality, high-resolution…
  • GERMAN ENGINEERING: Expertise first-hand, the true high quality engineering that Germany is so broadly recognized…
  • PERFECT APPLICATIONS: Closed over-ear headphones superb for skilled modifying, mixing, and mastering

Beyerdynamic is an award-winning creator of audiophile headphones and different sound applied sciences. 

Whereas Beyerdynamic DT 770 Professional headphones are designed particularly for studio work, they may also be used with gaming TVs and listening to music on cellular gadgets.

The closed again, over-ear headphones are a frequent selection for many who combine, edit and grasp audio in an expert setting.

Designed for lengthy put on and luxury, the construct consists of pillow mushy ear cups and a spring metal headband to maintain the headphones safe and cushty. 

The one-sided cable eliminates tangling and makes it straightforward to take them on and off.

You’ll hear detailed, intricate sound with a distinguished bassline. It’s much less encompass sound and extra clear — no extras — simply the cleanliness of a sonic manufacturing.

That is due to Tesla know-how which employs a dynamic neodymium driver. The transducers guarantee a clean sound expertise with out distortion, even at excessive ranges.

These headphones can reproduce an enormous frequency vary with an impedance variance of 32 to 250 ohms, relying on the appliance (smartphones to studio work).

The DT 770 is constructed for execs however priced for all.

8. AKG Professional Audio K712


AKG Pro Audio K712 Headphones

  • Over-ear design most sporting consolation for lengthy work classes
  • Refined open know-how for spacious and ethereal sound with out compromise
  • Improved low-end efficiency by 3dB for extra highly effective sound imaging

AKG headphones and microphones have shared area with musical greats corresponding to Stevie Surprise and Aerosmith. It’s an award-winning model with confirmed experience in sound supply.

And, AKG delivers sound with fashion. The Professional Audio K712 headphones have an eye catching design, however these reference studio headphones have the bones to again up the aesthetic.

By way of the conscientious integration of particular transducers and flat-wire voice coils, your ears obtain pure, refined playback — correct replica of music and lyrics for exact listening.

They’re designed for lengthy put on; the leather-based headband is mushy and your complete unit is light-weight. Ear cups are large and flanked with velour and reminiscence foam.

You’ll get pleasure from spacious sound with this open again headphone selection. The frequency vary is 10 – 39,800 Hz with an impedance of 62 ohms.

These headphones aren’t only for musicians, they’re for lovers of Hello-Fi sound. For individuals who don’t need to miss a factor.

9. Shure AONIC 50

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Shure AONIC 50 Headphones

  • PREMIUM WIRELESS STUDIO-QUALITY SOUND: Engineered from many years {of professional} expertise. No cords. No…
  • ADJUSTABLE NOISE CANCELLING & ENVIRONMENT MODE: Remove distractions for a really immersive listening…
  • BLUETOOTH 5 WIRELESS TECHNOLOGY:  Enhanced stability and a variety of as much as 30 ft (10 meters). Pairs to…

Shure has been an innovator in sound since 1925. At present, Shure is a revered, main producer of wired and wi-fi sound isolation and noise cancelling headphones.

AONIC 50 is a closed again wi-fi set of cans that present a cellular listening expertise. The sound doesn’t undergo from a scarcity of wires, however you’ve got the choice to attach for those who want.

It features a premium amplifier within the design that works with codecs like Qualcomm aptX, aptX HD, aptX Low Latency, Sony LDAC, AAC, and SBC.

This selection boasts adjustable noise cancellation. It has fingertip controls for calls, playback, and quantity.

They fold flat for straightforward journey. The strong construct makes them rugged sufficient for frequent put on however nonetheless comfy sufficient for lengthy sound classes.

Battery life is nice. You’ll stand up to twenty hours of uninterrupted audio on a single cost.

These audiophile headphones use Bluetooth 5 know-how to pair with transportable music gamers, laptops, smartphones, and tablets simply, receiving alerts from as much as 30 ft.

Total, these headphones are fairly priced for what they’ll do. You should use them professionally or casually, related or untethered. 

10. Philips SHP9600

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Philips SHP9600 Headphones

  • All New Philips Shp9600 With The Good Mix Of Efficiency, Consolation, And High quality
  • Open-Again Design With Spacious Sound. Excellent For Listening To Your Favourite Music On a regular basis At Dwelling
  • Completely Tuned 50 Mm Drivers Ship Crisp Bass, Balanced Midrange, And Prstine Excessive Frequencies.

When you’re in search of a finances purchase, try the SHP9600 audiophile headphones by Phillips.

They provide highly effective elements like 50mm drivers and neodymium magnets affordably. The open again design is as crisp and clear because the sonic supply.

The extent of sound element is spectacular for the worth. You get a frequency response of 12 – 35,000 HZ and impedance of 32 ohms. A superb vary of highs and lows with ample bass.

Moreover, these headphones are engineered for consolation and prolonged put on. They provide an adjustable padded headband and enormous cushioned ear cups.

This can be a strong selection for an audio beginner who appreciates good bass, a mixture of clear frequencies, and clean supply. 

Abstract

With audiophile headphones, it’s vital to focus in your “must-haves” earlier than buying.

Ask your self:

  • Wired or wi-fi? Wi-fi permits for extra freedom and suppleness. It’s additionally superb for Bluetooth gadgets with out headphone jacks. Wired earphones are nice when you’ve got completely different audio elements to hook up with.  
  • Skilled or informal use? Professional headphones are inclined to value extra. For informal playback, skip specs like excessive impedance (100 ohms or extra) or DAC connectivity. Simply concentrate on the options you want.
  • Open again or closed again? Open again headphones have sound leakage. In order for you a personal listening expertise choose closed again.
  • Fast use or lengthy use? For prolonged listening, select choices that concentrate on consolation. Search for massive, padded, breathable ear cups that swivel and padded or versatile headbands.

Backside line? Discover headphones with the perks you need at a worth you’ll be able to reside with. It is going to make all the pieces you hearken to that a lot sweeter.