We continue with tips from Arnau Sala (aka da Professor) to correctly choose gear for our music production studio.
Good headphones are essential for reliable monitoring. In fact, with a budget of around €150–€200 you can get headphones with much more accurate response than speakers at the same price.
But, what should we consider before buying headphones for music production? Let’s see.
Open or closed?
This is a debate that always raises doubts. Traditionally, it is said that:
- Closed-back headphones are better suited for recording, because they isolate better from external noise.
- Open-back headphones are more suitable for mixing, as they offer a more natural listening, with less coloration and lower listening fatigue.
Up to this point, everything is correct.
The intermediate option: semi-open
In many cases, semi-open headphones are the best option because they combine the best of both:
- Some level of isolation
- A more airy and natural sound
This makes them a balanced choice for production, mixing and extended work sessions.
Some recommended examples
Closed-back (more focused on production and recording)
- Beyerdynamic DT-770
- AKG K271 MKII
Semi-open (ideal for mixing and mastering)
- Beyerdynamic DT-880
Open-back (aimed at mixing/mastering)
- Beyerdynamic DT-990
- AKG K612 PRO
For open-back models, work in a quiet environment since they let external noise through.
32 Ohm, 250 Ohm, 600 Ohm… what does it mean?
We often find the same model with different impedance values. Impedance is the resistance that the headphone offers to the movement of its transducer.
To simplify:
- Higher impedance requires more power to reach the same volume.
- Lower impedance gives more volume with less power… but increases the risk of distortion, noise and interference.
This means that high-impedance headphones usually require additional amplification, but in return they offer a cleaner and more precise signal.
As with almost everything, the key is balance and understanding what real use you are going to make of it.
Final tip
As with studio monitors, it’s highly recommended to try headphones before buying. Each model responds differently; the right choice depends on your ears and your working environment.
If you want to learn professional listening, how to choose headphones, monitors and equipment for producing and mixing music, the Diploma in Advanced Music and Sound at EUMES covers listening and sound from a practical, technical base.
