Are Cheap Studio Headphones Any Good?
Cheap studio headphones can be a tempting option for musicians or audio engineers on a budget, but they also come with both pros and cons to consider. Before I get into the “Best Studio Headphones Under $100”, let’s go over what to expect from buying low budget headphones.
One of the main benefits of low cost studio headphones is their affordability. For those who are just starting out or who have limited funds, a lower-priced pair of headphones can be an accessible way to get started with recording and mixing audio. Additionally, some low-end studio headphones can still offer a relatively flat frequency response, meaning that they accurately reproduce sound without boosting or cutting certain frequencies. This can be useful for those who need to hear a true representation of their audio without any coloration.
However, there are also several drawbacks to cost-effective studio headphones. One of the biggest concerns is their overall sound quality. Cheaper headphones often use lower-quality drivers and components, which can result in a less accurate representation of audio. This can be problematic for those who need to make precise decisions about levels, EQ, and other audio processing techniques. Additionally, cheap headphones may not be as comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, which can be an issue for those who need to wear them for long recording or mixing sessions.
Another potential issue with budget friendly studio headphones is their durability. Cheaper headphones may be more prone to breaking or wearing out quickly, which can be frustrating and costly in the long run. Additionally, these headphones may not come with the same level of customer support or warranty options as more expensive models, which can be a concern for those who need reliable gear.
Overall, while low budget studio headphones can be a good option for those on a budget, it’s important to carefully consider their pros and cons before making a purchase. It may be worth investing in a slightly more expensive pair of headphones that will offer better sound quality and durability in the long run.
Best Studio Headphones Under $100
1. Shure SRH400A Headphones
The Shure SRH440A headphones are a low budget high-quality set of headphones for developed for recording, content creation, editing, and mixing. According to Shure, these headphones deliver a natural transparent sound signature that provides accurate sound reproduction across its frequency range spectrum. These headphones are also designed to deliver exceptional comfort, and durability, making them an excellent choice for long hours of use.
The Shure SRH440A headphones feature a closed-back, circumaural design that provides excellent noise isolation and helps to prevent sound leakage. The headphones are equipped with large, high-performance drivers that deliver a frequency response of 10Hz to 22kHz, providing a wide and detailed soundstage with clear highs, rich mids, and deep bass.
The headphones also feature an ergonomic design with a padded headband and ear cups that provide a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. Additionally, the ear cups swivel 90 degrees, making them easy to store and transport.
The Shure SRH440A headphones are also built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand the rigors of daily use. The cables are detachable and replaceable, which adds to their longevity and convenience.
Overall, the Shure SRH440A headphones is a solid choice for those who want reliable headphones at an budget-friendly price. Whether you’re monitoring a recording session, producing music, or podcasting, these headphones deliver good performance and value.
Features & Specifications
- 40mm dynamic neodymium drivers well-balanced frequency response from 10Hz – 22000Hz
- The lightweight, comfortable headband provides better comfort for extended use.
- Folds flat for easy portability and storage
- Locking cable is detachable. The cable is securely locked into the ear cup and is easily replaceable.
- Includes detachable straight cable, threaded ¼” (6.3 mm) gold-plated adapter and two-year warranty
2. Sennheiser 280 Pro Headphones
The Sennheiser 280 Pro headphones have been well-regarded choice for audio professionals and music enthusiasts for years. These headphones offer exceptional sound quality, durability, and comfort, making them an excellent option for long listening sessions.
The Sennheiser 280 Pro headphones closed-back design isolates external noise with ease and comfort. This is particularly useful for critical listening tasks where distractions can interfere with accuracy. Additionally, the headphones offer a frequency response range of 8 Hz to 25 kHz, allowing for accurate reproduction of audio across the spectrum.
In terms of build quality, the Sennheiser 280 Pro headphones are built to last. They feature a sturdy and durable construction, with a collapsible design that makes them easy to transport. The earpads and headband are also designed with comfort in mind, making them suitable for extended listening sessions without causing fatigue or discomfort.
Overall, the Sennheiser 280 Pro headphones are a low cost reliable choice for anyone in need of accurate and comfortable audio monitoring. Whether you’re a professional audio engineer, musician, or content creator, these headphones are sure to deliver good sound quality, comfort and durability.
Features & Specifications
- Over-Ear (Circumaural), Closed-Back
- Headband foldable
- Dynamic neodymium drivers well-balanced frequency response from 8 Hz to 25 kHz
- Impedence: 64 OHms
- Maximum SPL 113 dB
- Noise attentuation: up to 32 dB (passive)
- Maximum power handling: 500 mW
- Cable: Single-sided 1/8″ / 3.5 mm TRS coiled. 1/4 inch adapter included
3. Audio Technica ATH-M30X
The Audio Technica ATH-M30X is a low budget closed-back, over-ear headphone that is widely used among studio professionals and pro audio enthusiasts. According to Audio Technica, it is designed to deliver an accurate and clear sound reproduction with a well-balanced frequency response that allows users to hear every detail of their music or audio recordings.
The ATH-M30X headphones are built with high-quality plastic and are designed to withstand heavy use. The earpads are made of soft leatherette material that provides a comfortable fit, even during extended listening sessions. The headphones are also lightweight, which makes them easy to wear for extended periods without causing discomfort. However, the earpads initially have a snug fit, so the might feel tight on your ears.
The headphones are equipped with 40mm drivers that deliver a wide frequency response of 15Hz-22kHz. The ATH-M30x sound quality is good, but is not flat-lined for a more accurate critical listening experience. There are frequency range boost in the lows and highs(around 10k). There’s a dip around mid 6k.
Overall, the Audio Technica ATH-M30X is a reliable headphone that is suited for studio monitoring and recording. It can also be used for content creating and podcasting as well. The ATH-M30X is a reasonable option that delivers good sound quality and a comfortable fit at an affordable price point.
Features and Specifications:
- Build: Lightweight plastic, metal bands, leatherette padding
- Rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils in 40 mm drivers tuned for increased detail and mid-range definition
- The circumaural design contours around the ears to provide excellent sound isolation in noisy environments.
- Simple single-side non-detachable cable
- Collapsible for portability and saving space
- Designed to perform well in studio tracking, mixing, and field recording.
- Frequency Responses 15 – 22000Hz
- 6.3 mm (¼”) snap-on adaptor.
4. Sony MDR7506 Headphones
The Sony MDR7506 headphones are a popular choice for professional audio engineers, musicians, and podcasters. These headphones are known for their excellent sound quality, durability, and affordability, making them a go-to option for many in the industry.
One of the standout features of the MDR7506 headphones is their wide frequency response range. With a range of 10Hz to 20kHz, these headphones are capable of reproducing a wide range of sounds with accuracy and clarity. This makes them ideal for mixing and mastering audio, as well as for monitoring live recordings.
The MDR7506 headphones are also designed with comfort in mind. The ear cups are padded with soft, leather-like material that is comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The headphones also have a closed-back design, which helps to block out external noise and keep the sound focused on the listener.
In terms of durability, the MDR7506 headphones are built to last. The headphones are constructed with high-quality materials and have a rugged design that can withstand daily use and abuse. They also come with a protective carrying case, making them easy to transport and store when not in use.
Overall, the Sony MDR7506 headphones are a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable and high-quality pair of headphones for professional audio work or casual listening. With their excellent sound quality, comfortable design, and durable construction, these headphones are a great investment for anyone looking to up their audio game.
Features & Specifications
- Ear coupling: Over-ear closed-back (swivel)
- Foldable Headband
- 40mm Neodymium Drivers well-balanced frequency response from 10Hz–20kHz
- Imependence: 63 Ohms
- Maximum power handling: 1000 mW
- Maximum SPL: 106 dB
- Connector: 1/8″ with 1/4″ adapter
5. Mackie MC-250 Headphones
The Mackie MC-250 headphones are a high-quality, closed-back, over-ear headphone designed for professional use in the studio, a DJ, or for personal listening. They feature large 50mm drivers that deliver a frequency response range of 20Hz to 20kHz, allowing for sound reproduction across a large spectrum.
The MC-250 headphones are built with comfort in mind, featuring a padded headband and ear cups that provide excellent isolation from outside noise. This means that they are ideal for use in noisy environments, as well as for extended listening sessions. The ear cups also swivel and rotate for a comfortable and secure fit, which is especially useful when wearing them for long periods of time.
In terms of build quality, the MC-250 headphones are constructed with high-quality materials that are designed to last. They feature a durable metal frame and reinforced hinges that ensure they can withstand heavy use in a professional setting. The cables are also detachable, which is a useful feature for when the cable needs to be replaced or if the headphones need to be stored away.
Overall, the Mackie MC-250 headphones are a reliable choice for anyone looking for high-quality headphones that are suitable for quality use in the studio, as well as for personal listening. They are comfortable, durable, and offer good sound quality.
Features & Specifications
- Over-ear closed-back
- Foldable Headband
- 1.97″ / 50 mm Neodymium Drivers well-balanced frequency response from 10Hz–20kHz
- Imependence: 38 Ohms
- Maximum SPL: 100 dB
- Connector: 1/8″ / 3.5 mm TRS Straight. 1/4 TRS adapter included.
6. AKG K240 Headphones
The AKG K240 headphones are a well-known and widely used studio monitor headphone that has been around for many years. These headphones have been a favorite of audio engineers, musicians, and producers because of their clear and accurate sound reproduction, comfort, and affordability.
One of the unique features of the AKG K240 headphones is their semi-open design. This design strikes a balance between the open-back and closed-back designs, providing a good mix of sound isolation and natural sound reproduction. The semi-open design allows for some sound leakage, which can be useful in a studio setting where you need to be aware of your surroundings while monitoring audio.
The AKG K240 headphones have a frequency response range of 15 Hz – 25 kHz, which is wider than most headphones in its price range. This wider range allows for more accurate reproduction of high and low frequencies, making it easier to identify any frequency imbalances or issues in your mixes. Additionally, the K240s have a comfortable fit with a self-adjusting headband and large ear cups that provide good noise isolation and comfort during long listening sessions.
Overall, the AKG K240 headphones are a solid choice for anyone in need of a reliable, accurate, and comfortable set of headphones for audio monitoring and mixing. Whether you are a studio engineer, a musician, or podcaster, the K240s are a good value for their price point and offer good sound quality for a wide range of usages.
Features & Specifications
- Over-Ear (Circumaural), Semi-Open-Back
- Headband Self-adjustable
- Patented Varimotion Transducers
- 1.2″ / 30 mm Neodymium Drivers well-balanced frequency response from 15 Hz to 25 kHz
- Impendence: 55 Ohms
- Maximum SPL: 104 dB SPL/V at 1 kHz
- Maximum Power handling: 200 mW
- Audio Connector: 1/8″ / 3.5 mm TRS Male, 1/4 TRS adapter included.
- Active Noise Cancellation: No
7. Beyerdynamic DT240 Headphones
The Beyerdynamic DT240 Pro is a professional-grade closed-back headphone that has been designed for both studio use and personal listening. It is a lightweight and compact headphone that offers a comfortable fit and excellent sound quality. The DT240 Pro has been designed to be both durable and portable, making it an ideal choice for musicians, audio engineers, and music enthusiasts who need a reliable and high-quality headphone.
The DT240 Pro features dynamic drivers that deliver a balanced and detailed sound with a wide frequency response of 5 Hz to 35 kHz. This makes it suitable for a range of audio applications, from monitoring and mixing to music playback and casual listening. The headphone also features a closed-back design that provides excellent noise isolation, allowing you to focus on your audio without any external distractions.
The DT240 Pro is built to last, with a robust design that can withstand the rigors of daily use. It features a sturdy headband that is adjustable to fit different head sizes, while the earpads are made from soft and breathable material that is comfortable to wear for extended periods. The headphone also comes with a detachable cable, making it easy to store and transport.
Overall, the Beyerdynamic DT240 Pro is an excellent headphone that offers high-quality sound, comfort, and durability at an affordable price point. It is a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and versatile headphone that can handle a range of audio applications.
Features & Specifications
- Over-Ear (Circumaural), Closed-Back
- Headband Self-adjustable
- Patented Varimotion Transducers
- 1.2″ / 30 mm Neodymium Drivers well-balanced frequency response from 5 Hz to 35,000 Hz
- Impendence: 34 Ohms
- Maximum SPL: 119 dB SPL (200 mW / 500 Hz
- Maximum Power handling: 100 mW
- Audio Connector: gold-plated mini stereo jack
(3.5 mm) & 1/4″ adapter included.
Conclusion: Studio Headphones Under $100
In conclusion, choosing low budget recording studio headphones doesn’t necessarily equate to compromising on audio quality. These headphones showcase that achieving quality audio monitoring doesn’t necessarily require breaking the bank. With advancements in technology, some low budget headphones offer reliable sound clarity, near accurate frequency response, and comfortable wear, aligning well with the demands of a home studio environment.
