Best Headphones for Audiophiles – Experience High-Fidelity Heaven!

Best Headphones for Audiophiles - How to Become an Audiophile

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Let’s get one thing clear, not all high-end headphones can be regarded as the best headphones for audiophiles. Yes, most of them will come with top-notch components. But it’s not just the hardware that makes a pair of headphones capable of delivering pure audio bliss.

So, what exactly makes a headphone good for audiophiles? Well, there’re a couple of things that need to be taken into consideration. First of all, audiophile grade naturally means open-back. Open-back headphones offer more accuracy and better soundstage than closed-back alternatives.

However, as the headphone enclosure is open, there’s not much noise cancellation. But again, audiophile headphones are meant for home listening. And at home, you don’t need to worry about environmental noises outdoors.

That said, some audiophiles do prefer closed-back headphones. And there’re some good closed-back headphones out there too.

Secondly, audiophile headphones should offer great and high-clarity audio. To deliver that, they need to come with a robust driver configuration. Also, ensure the sound profile is natural, and the bass level isn’t distorted.

Furthermore, the imaging should be accurate, and the sound stage must be spacious. When you are listening to tracks, you should be able the separate each of the instruments. And the playback should give you the perspective of space between the source and your ears.

Other audio-specific features you should look for are better transience of sound and outstanding tonal balance. Without these two, a headphone can’t be audiophile-grade.

Finally, don’t forget to consider the overall design. It needs to be comfortable and highly ergonomic. Otherwise, the music-listening experience won’t be enjoyable, no matter how good the sound is. And if a headphone has a well-rounded build, it’ll be naturally durable. So, there’s no need to worry too much in this regard.

Looking for some specific recommendations for headphones that excel in all the factors mentioned above? You’ll get all the information about the top picks below. So, stick to the very end of this discussion if you want to know it all!

Best Headphones for Audiophiles

Editor’s Pick

Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X

4.5/5
Price Range: $$$
Brand: beyerdynamic
Best Headphones for Audiophiles

TL:DR;

Even though Beyerdynamic says that the DT 900 Pro X is premium studio headphones, it’s basically made for both audiophiles and mixers. As you might’ve guessed, the build quality is top-notch. Its outstanding passive cushioning lets you get a secure and comfortable fit.

But the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X shines the most in terms of audio. When hooked to a high-quality source or a headphone amplifier, you get expressive and highly controlled audio playback. As a matter of fact, some of your favorite tracks will feel completely new with the headphones.

The audiophile headphone is extremely versatile too. It comes with a detachable mini-XLR cable. As a result, you can change the connection or alter it with other connection options.

Also, the build quality is phenomenal. Beyerdynamic has indeed displayed how good their workmanship is with this headphone.

The Specs

  • Type:  Over-ear
  • Enclosure:  Open Backed
  • Noise Cancellation:  No
  • Connector:  3.5 mm
  • Cable Length:  1.8 m or 3 m
  • Weight:  345 grams

What’s in the Box?

  • 180 cm mini-XLR to Jack cable
  • 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter
  • 300 cm mini-XLR to Jack cable
  • 3.5mm to 6.35mm adapter

Stuff I like

  • Expressive and controlled audio playback
  • Accurate imaging and musically cohesive
  • Premium build quality
  • Versatile connection options
  • Professional studio-grade driver configuration

Stuff I like less

  • Demands a high-end headphone amplifier and audio source
Budget Pick

Grado SR80x

4/5
Price Range: $$
Best Headphones for Audiophiles

TL:DR;

On a budget? Don’t want to spend too much on the best headphones for audiophiles. In that case, the Grado SR80x is the best overall pick!

To start with, the Grado SR80x does a fantastic job in offering a wide and open soundstage. It comes with the fourth-generation 44m driver, which is more efficient. The level of transparency that the drivers can offer will let you enjoy class-leading transparency.

In addition, the drivers do a proper job of lowering distortion. You get a clear, crisp, and more detailed sound. And the great part is that you don’t need a high-end audio source or amplification to enjoy all that the Grado SR80x has to offer. Portable devices will be more than enough!

The bass level of the headphone is excellent too. You get punchy and rich bass frequencies. Also, as the headphone is lightweight and extremely ergonomic, you can keep it on for hours without facing any discomfort. Overall, it’s a perfect pick for audiophiles who are on a budget.

The Specs

  • Type:  Over-ear
  • Enclosure:  Open Backed
  • Noise Cancellation:  No
  • Connector:  3.5 mm
  • Cable Length:  1.8 m
  • Weight:  240 grams

What’s in the Box?

  • 6.5mm Golden Adapter

Stuff I like

  • Punchy and rich bass
  • Class-leading audio transparency
  • Open and detailed soundstage
  • Easy to drive
  • Comfortable and highly ergonomic

Stuff I like less

  • A bit too leaky
Contender

Sennheiser HD 800 S

4.5/5
Price Range: $$$$
Brand: Sennheiser
Best Headphones for Audiophiles

TL:DR;

The Sennheiser HD 800 S is a great pick as the best headphones for audiophiles. These top-of-the-line headphones might be out of reach for most users, but if you can afford them, you’ll enter a new world of HiFi music.

First, the headphone’s open-back nature allows it to offer a highly impressive soundstage. It’s large, it’s spacious, and it has everything that an audiophile looks for. The audio will feel like it’s coming from in front of you rather than from the inside of your head.

The mid of the headphone is extremely flat, which means you can hear the lead instruments and vocals with exceptional accuracy. Also, the dynamic transducers of the headphone aren’t prone to stereo imaging issues. That’s another plus point for the Sennheiser HD 800 S.

Comfort-wise, the Sennheiser HD 800 S utilizes handmade microfiber ear pads. These pads offer an exceptional level of comfort. So, you can wear this pair of headphones for long periods without any issues. However, the overall build can feel a bit too heavy for some users.

The Specs

  • Type:  Over-ear
  • Enclosure:  Open Backed
  • Noise Cancellation:  No
  • Connector:  6.3 mm
  • Cable Length:  3 m
  • Weight:  328 grams

What’s in the Box?

  • 4.4mm 10ft cable
  • 6.35mm 10ft cable
  • Microfiber cleaning cloth

Stuff I like

  • Outstanding soundstage
  • Comfortable fit
  • Very consistent treble
  • Great bass
  • Natural production of vocals and instruments

Stuff I like less

  • Extremely premium price tag

Quick Summary                                                                                         

Overall, if you want to experience unparalleled sonic excellence, you shouldn’t look any further than the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X, Grado SR80x, and Sennheiser HD 800 S. From highs to mids to lows, these headphones nail in all the factors. You can’t go wrong with any of them!

Slava is a man of mystery and no-one seems to know exactly where he is at any point in time. When he isn't enjoying writing about all things audio and technical he can be found researching his next project of interest. The man never rests.

This post was last updated on 2024-11-07 / Some images from Amazon Product API & some links may be affiliate links which may earn us a commission from purchases.


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