Best Headphones for Drummers
The drummer is the foundation of the band. They keep their bandmates in the groove, set and control the rhythm, as well as help their team navigate through improvisations or slip-ups.
Whether you’re a gigging drumming, a session percussionist, a hobbyist, or a total newbie, you should know that a set of quality drummer cans is just as important as any cymbal, tom, or snare. Today, we will talk about some of the best headphones for drummers that the market has to offer this year, so without any further ado, let’s dive in:
Westone Audio Pro X20 IEM Earphones
EDITORS PICK: An excellent mid-range headphone (IEM) for Drummers and a great improvement on the previous UM Pro 20 unit.
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For drummers that find in-ear monitor headphone type superior, Westone Audio’s Pro X20 may be the best set of headphones available.
I, personally, have always been a fan of Westone and include them in most lists. I’ve owned at least 8 sets of them and reviewed them also. The UM Pro 50 are still a favourite.
Starting with sound performance, the Pro X20 features a precision-tuned set of armature drivers. They significantly influence the number of details these headphones can pick up on, and refine the sonic texture of their output. The frequency range of Westone Audio’s Pro X20 is also much broader than average.
What truly sets Pro X20 apart from high-end in-ear monitors is the tuning of both earpieces. After rigorous testing, the monitors now have a matching acoustic symmetry, responding to volume and dynamic changes in power output with surgical precision.
The universal fit of Westone Audio’s Pro X20 combined with its lightweight yet sturdy frame ensures long-term comfort, and makes these headphones ideal for every occasion. The only reason why Pro X20 isn’t among today’s top picks is its expensiveness – not all drummers can afford it, and it’s considered more of an audiophile’s headphone.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 4.25 x 2.25 x 7.25 in
- Item Weight: 12 oz
- Ear Placement: In Ear
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
Stuff I like
- Precision-tuned earpieces
- Super-strong T2 fully detachable cable
- Outstanding sonic performance provided by balanced armature magnets
- Ergonomic comfort and universal fit
Stuff I like less
- Costs almost the same as an average drumming kit
Where to get it
CCA CA24 IEM Earphone
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One of the best headphones for drummers comes from a popular Amazon brand called CCA. CA24 is the company’s newest model, offering a host of unique features and benefits, such as highly flexible cables, superiorly robust construction, precision-tuned drivers, and more.
This pair of IEMs boasts innovative Moving Iron tech, comprising 24 individual units of ultra-low frequency iron pieces that can pick up on even the faintest of vibrations. Drummers can greatly benefit from this technology, as they will be able to notice more details more vividly.
Although CA24 monitors already come pre-tuned, drummers can manually tweak the controls and specify the input of all frequency ranges.
In terms of construction, CA24 in-ear monitors feature zinc alloy construction augmented with a cavity made of resin. They are highly resistant to sweat and physical damage (by IEM standards).
Comfort-wise, CA24 is a set of ergonomically designed in-ear monitors that cause no fatigue to the wearer whatsoever. IEMs never put up clamping pressure, to begin with, but CA24 took comfort and convenience to another level.
The Specs
- Package Dimensions: 4.25 x 3.11 x 1.65 in
- Item Weight: 4.2 oz
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Noise Control: Sound Isolation
Stuff I like
- Drastically enhanced frequency response range
- Customizable frequency stage
- Made of premium-quality materials
- Outstanding sonic performance
- Suitable for all drumming activities and events (gigs, recording, practice)
Stuff I like less
- Quite expensive
- Bass-colored sonic signature
Where to get it
BEST BUDGET PICK: Tascam TH-02 Closed Back Studio Headphones
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For drummers on a cash-strapped budget, Tascam’s TH-02 is one of the best choices available. As far as entry-level headphones go, TH-02 offers a decent balance between versatile uses, sound quality, and connectivity. It does not, sadly, excel in any particular field of performance, but it outperforms the majority of its similarly-priced counterparts.
Aside from affordability, one of the main reasons why drummers adore Tascam’s TH-02 is its reliable passive noise cancellation technology. With large, comfortable muffs this pair of headphones efficiently negates ambient noises, allowing drummers to focus on the sounds coming from TH-02.
These headphones are not the sturdiest, but their headband, joints, muffs, and hardware are solidly built. The cable, on another hand, is thin and flimsier than average.
The dense stitching of TH-02 ensures a tight fit, which could be a benefit in a recording studio and a drawback for drummers searching for headphones for practice sessions.
As far as sound is of concern, TH-02 offers a standard frequency response with slightly emphasized bass responsiveness. Finally, TH-02 headphones are compact, boasting a foldable design that suits gigging drummers perfectl
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 7 x 3.5 x 8.5 in
- Item Weight: 1.01 lb
Stuff I like
- One of the best headphones for drummers on a low budget
- Compatible with 0.125-inch and 0.25-inch adapters
- Surprisingly good sound for the money
- Foldable design
- Sturdy hardware
Stuff I like less
- Flimsy cable
- Tight fit
Where to get it
BEST PREMUIM PICK: Bose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
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Even though Bose’s 700 was not designed specifically for musicians, it is an excellent choice for drummers that are searching for cans that they can use for practice, rehearsals, and casual music listening.
One of its prominent features is adaptive noise canceling technology. Bose Headphones 700 offers eleven noise reduction settings gauged by intensity, allowing drummers to muffle ambient noises, completely extinguish sounds coming from the outside, and anything in between.
The sound quality of Bose 700 is groundbreaking. With thundering bass, pronounced mids, and detailed highs, it excels in delivering superb all-around sonic performance at all times.
Bose 700 is a pair of wireless headphones that boasts twenty hours of continuous music listening per charge. The in-built battery is fully rechargeable and boasts consistent performance.
Aside from its expensiveness, one of its main drawbacks is the lack of support for Bose Connect companion app. This handy feature allows users to seamlessly connect multiple audio sources with Bose headphones and would be invaluable to drummers if Bose 700 was compatible with it.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 2 x 6.5 x 8 in
- Item Weight: 8.8 oz
- Ear Placement: Over Ear
- Connectivity Technology: Bluetooth
Stuff I like
- Almost unrivaled sound quality
- Eleven levels of ambient noise cancelation
- Twenty-hour battery life per charge
- Extended frequency range
- Compatible with Amazon Alexa & Google Assistant
Stuff I like less
- Does not support Bose Connect companion app
- Highly expensive
Where to get it
ALSO CONSIDER:
DCMEKA Dynamic Hybrid Wired Earbuds
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After our top picks, let’s open up the official segment of the best headphones for drummers reviews with DCMEKA’s dynamic hybrid wired earbuds.
This is an in-ear headphone set that many drummers use as a backup. Equipped with a robust 6N braided cable, the sturdiness of DCMEKA’s headphones is far superior to entry-level in-ear models.
They sound surprisingly well for low-cost headphones. In terms of frequency response, DCMEKA in-ear headphones are great at delivering detailed highs, although they fall short on mids and bass.
They can be quite comfortable for short-term use, but they weren’t designed for 3-hour concerts or long recording sessions.
All things considered, DCMEKA’s in-ear headphones are more of a decent alternative than the first option for drummers that can’t afford better quality cans. They sound good, but not great; the cable is sturdy, but the core and hardware aren’t as much, and the frequency response range favors highs over lows and mids.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 51.18 x 0.79 x 0.98 in
- Item Weight: 1.58 oz
- Ear Placement: In Ear
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
Stuff I like
- Durable and detachable braided cable
- Perfect as backup headphones
- Good sound quality overall
- Comfortable for short-term wear
Stuff I like less
- Flimsy plastic material
- Slightly inferior bass response
Where to get it
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
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ATH-M50X is the fifth generation of Audio-Technica’s headphone series M20X belongs to. It boasts a host of vastly improved features, offering a much stronger performance to studio drummers, albeit at a steeper price tag.
The only element that all M-series ATHs have in common is the neutral sound signature. As for innovations, M50X sports 45mm drivers, which offer more robust performance at higher outputs, improved impedance, and vastly upgraded sound clarity.
Although M50X features the same circumaural design as its predecessors, it features swiveling earcups that allow for streamlined sound monitoring by expanding the cups’ flexibility.
As far as aesthetics are of concern, Audio-Technica’s ATH-M50X is available in four color variations, including black, gunmetal, white, and metallic orange, all of which sport unique details and stylish patterns. Furthermore, drummers can choose between wired and wireless versions.
Sweat-proof and superiorly comfortable, these headphones are the ultimate solution for recording drummers.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 11.4 x 10 x 4.1 in
- Item Weight: 10.1 oz
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Design: Over-Ear
- Impedance: 47 ohms
Stuff I like
- Sleek circumaural design
- Available in wired and wireless versions
- Top audio quality and frequency response
- Powered by large 45mm drivers with integrated aluminum voice coils
- Swiveling earcups
- Sweat-proof construction ensures long-term comfort
Stuff I like less
- Very expensive
- Sports some of the same features as much older ATH models
Where to get it
Canpur JF1 Wired In-Ear Monitor Earphones for Drummers
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Canpur JF1 is a mid-range set of IEMs for drummers that want to invest in better-sounding, better-rounded headphones.
In comparison to DCMEKA’s monitors, JF1 features more efficient ambient noise reduction technology. Although it can’t negate all outside sounds, it does an excellent job at muffling external noises, even in particularly loud environments. Namely, these cans can block approximately 37 decibels.
Equipped with a single dynamic magnet, JF1 in-ear monitors pick up on more details, albeit not on an extended range of frequencies. While this may mean that drummers using these monitors won’t hear their kick drum (or the singer) as pronounced, they will benefit from a more vivid sonic performance and more textured audio.
Another reason why JF1 offers exceptional value for the price is the set of complementary accessories that come with the package. These include nine earplug pairs (three in each size; S, M, and L) and three tips.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 3.27 x 7.09 x 5.91 in
- Item Weight: 5 oz
- Form Factor: In Ear
- Noise Control: Sound Isolation
Stuff I like
- High sound quality
- Comfortable ergonomic design
- Strong sound-dampening technology
- Robust braided cable
Stuff I like less
- Standard frequency response
- Slightly more comfortable than DCMEKA’s
Where to get it
Lieront LT006 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones
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We are retreating to lower price points to explore the category of the best wireless headphones for drummers, starting with Lieront’s LT006 model.
These headphones are among the cheapest cans equipped with Bluetooth version 5.0; even though this is not the latest iteration of Bluetooth connectivity, it offers a decently fast, reliable connection.
Lieront’s LT006 headphones also boast active noise cancelation technology, which is not too common for low-end wireless headphone pairs. Although this piece of technology isn’t customizable (unlike Bose 700), it does a decently good job at reducing ambient noises in fairly loud settings.
There are a few drawbacks worth noting, such as the relatively constricted frequency response range, low battery life, and subpar durability. Its saving grace is its expanded bass responsiveness, making it more suitable for drummers than other musicians.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 6.69 x 7.87 x 1.18 in
- Item Weight: 16 oz
- Form Factor: Over Ear
- Connectivity Technology: Wireless
- Noise Control: Active Noise Cancellation
Stuff I like
- Decently good active noise canceling technology
- Compatible with most Bluetooth devices
- Simple, easy maintenance
- Can be connected to PCs and laptops with a 3.5mm cable
Stuff I like less
- Low durability
- The battery lasts only 2 hours per charge
Where to get it
Anker Soundcore Life Q20 Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones
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Soundcore’s Q20 is one of the most popular wireless headphone sets for drummers due to several reasons. Aside from sounding absolutely phenomenal for a relatively cheap pair of cans, Q20 boasts enhanced frequency response, a whopping 40-hour battery life, and tremendous active noise canceling technology.
One of the main reasons why Anker Soundcore Q20 is quite cheap despite offering all of the benefits as mentioned above is that a new version is available (Q35). We are recommending Q20 for drummers on lower budgets, as its newer counterpart is subjectively not worth twice the money.
Q20 headphones feature 40mm drivers that deliver outstanding sonic performance. They were also custom tuned to recognize frequencies ranging to 40,000 Hz (almost twice the average).
These headphones also sport the proprietary BassUp™ technology. Drummers can leverage this technology to essentially double the strength of incoming bass frequencies by pressing their “play” button twice.
Equipped with four inbuilt ambient noise reduction microphones, Anker Soundcore Q20 can negate up to approximately 90% of external noise. It’s even strong enough to muffle the sound of roaring airplane engines.
Soundcore’s Q-series headphones, Q20 included, are not famous for top durability. They are decently sturdy but demand proper care and maintenance. Both the headband and connector joints are made of average-quality plastic.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 7.68 x 7.09 x 3.07 in
- Item Weight: 9.3 oz
- Ear Placement: Over Ear
- Connectivity Technology: Wireless
Stuff I like
- Superb sound quality for the price
- Available in three color variations
- Cheap, but can contest the performance of most mid-range and boutique headphones
- Four inbuilt active noise cancellation microphones
- An average of 40 hours of total playtime per charge
Stuff I like less
- Relatively flimsy plastic parts
Where to get it
Cowin (Qisebin) E8 Active Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones
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Cowin recently rebranded its company as “Qisebin”; both names are used interchangeably, so if you receive a package that doesn’t state “Cowin”, note that this is the reason.
These headphones are an excellent solution for drummers that demand a sturdy set of long-play wireless headphones that they can use for practice, rehearsals, and gigs.
E8’s sonic signature is slightly colored by the pronounced bass response, but its frequency span is tremendous.
Equipped with an 800 mAh rechargeable inbuilt battery, Cowin’s E8 can provide roughly 25 hours of music enjoyment before its cell runs out of juices. The Quick-charge allows these headphones to fully revive their battery life within three hours of charging.
Cowin’s E8 cans sport advanced noise cancellation technology, which can negate roughly 28 decibels. The closed-back design provides passive noise isolation and further blocks ambient noises (by a small amount, though). This means that these headphones aren’t perfectly suited for live gigs but are perfect for every other occasion.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 7.6 x 7 x 3 in
- Item Weight: 1.38 lb
- Ear Placement: Over Ear
- Connectivity Technology: Connectivity Technology
Stuff I like
- Very high sound quality
- Advanced active noise cancellation technology
- The latest version of Bluetooth connectivity
- Powered by 45mm magnets
- Long battery lifetime & quick-charging function
Stuff I like less
- Not suited for live performances
- Expensive
Where to get it
Audio-Technica ATH-M20X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
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The ATH-M20X is a slightly dated set of studio headphones, but it is still a very popular choice for drummers worldwide. Just like all studio cans, ATH-M20X boasts a natural, uncolored sonic signature and is best used for music production and recording.
I used to sell a ton of ATH-m50x and the m20x is an excellent option for those more budget conscious.
The frequency response range of these headphones was specifically tuned to go deeper than average, recognizing the subtlest of bass impulses with ease. Drummers that usually struggle to recognize the small details in low toms and bass kicks would benefit the most from ATH-M20X.
Powered by 40mm magnets and copper-reinforced aluminum coils, the sonic performance of ATH-M20X is consistent and potent.
Unlike the majority of models on this list, ATH-M20X offers passive noise isolation (as opposed to active noise canceling). The large earmuffs naturally block external noises, but since studios are generally not as loud as live stages, this should be more than enough.
In terms of robustness, Audio-Technica’s ATH-M20X features a leather-bound headband and muffs and screwed plastic reinforcements on connector joints for added durability.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 11.4 x 10 x 4.1 in
- Item Weight: 6.7 oz
- Design: Over-Ear
- Impedance: 47 ohms
- Frequency Response: 15-20,000 Hz
Stuff I like
- Strong, yet balanced sonic performance
- Circumaural design for added comfort and passive noise isolation
- Robust 40mm magnets and aluminum voice coils
- Decently affordable
Stuff I like less
- Flimsy cable
Where to get it
Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
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Many professional session drummers love Sony MDR7506 for its well-rounded, reliable performance. These cans are the best headphones for drummers seeking great-sounding, dependable solutions for studio environments.
Just like ATH-M20X, MDR7506 is powered by 40mm drivers, delivering relatively similar sound consistency and quality. The closed-ear design ensures unparalleled passive noise cancellation, preventing any sounds from entering or exiting the cups.
Speaking of which, the ear cups of Sony’s MDR7506 are large enough to cover the whole ears of the wearer without presenting a high level of clamping pressure.
The frequency range of MDR7506 spans from 10 to 20,000 Hz, which means that its floor frequencies are extended by 10 (in comparison to the standard range).
With a robust, braided cable, drummers can rest assured that they will be able to keep using Sony’s MDR7506 for years to come. Its only drawback is that it is a bit more expensive than average.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 1 x 1 x 1 in
- Item Weight: 8 oz
- Ear Placement: Over Ear
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Headphone Type: Dynamic, closed
- Driver Size: 40.0 mm
Stuff I like
- Rich, textured sonic performance
- A completely neutral sonic signature
- 10-foot braided cable
- Foldable design
- Extended floor frequency response
Stuff I like less
- A tad more expensive than average
Where to get it
FiiO FH7 Headphones Wired Earphones Earbuds
The Download
As we’re closing to the end of the review of the best headphones for drummers, we wanted to present you with several boutique options, starting with FiiO’s FH7.
What separates these headphones from contemporary high-end earbuds is their almost unparalleled sound quality.
While most earbud manufacturers refrain from using several drivers and magnets on such a small working surface, FiiO graced FH7 with four Knowles BA drivers, and a 13.6mm beryllium dynamic driver. The clarity, accuracy, and texture of FH7’s sonic performance are in a league of their own.
In terms of construction, these earbuds were made of an aerospace-grade alloy of magnesium and aluminum; reinforced with 5-axis Computer Numerical Control machining, FiiO’s FH7 is virtually indestructible.
Furthermore, its LC-3.5C cable features monocrystalline silver wires plated with copper; it is just as sturdy as the rest of the construction, if not even more so.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 8.11 x 6.1 x 3.19 in
- Item Weight: 1.19 lb
- Detachable Cable Design: Yes (standard MMCX connector)
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Ear Placement: In Ear
Stuff I like
- Superb quality of sound
- Excellent comfort rating for earbuds
- Interchangeable sound filters
- Five premium driver units
Stuff I like less
- Pre-tuning isn’t exemplary, but it can be re-tuned
- Pricey
Where to get it
V-Moda Crossfade M-100 Master Over-Ear Headphone
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The last model on the list is V-Moda’s heavily acclaimed M-100 Crossfade (M-100MA-MB). It rose to global renown for its revolutionary sound quality; what kept Crossfade relevant and popular is its versatility and premium quality hardware.
When it comes to durability, Crossfade M-100 is considerably superior to contemporary alternatives. Sporting the exquisite SteelFlex headband and metal construction, it is almost impervious to physical damage. On top of that, it is also sweat-proof.
Sound-wise, Crossfade boasts an expanded frequency response range and two 50mm drivers. It delivers a bombastic, bass-heavy sound and picks up on the tiniest of details with ease.
Crossfade M-100 is also superiorly comfortable to wear for extended periods. It is equipped with a pair of memory foam muffs and a leather band that lowers sweat build-ups and feels gentle to the touch. The only reason why V-Moda’s Crossfade M-100 isn’t the pick of the day is its price tag.
The Specs
- Product Dimensions: 6.1 x 4.33 x 7.28 in
- Item Weight: 9.9 oz
- Type: Over Ear
- Connectivity Technology: Wired
Stuff I like
- Unparalleled sound quality
- Extended frequency response range
- Comfortable sweat-proof earcups and leather band
- Strong dual-diaphragm drivers
- Built to last decades
Stuff I like less
- One of the most expensive headphone models on the list
Where to get it
Final Verdict
The best headphones for drummers come in all shapes, sizes, and price ranges. A budget set of cans isn’t inferior to mid-range headphones by default, but this is true more often than not.
This list features some of the finest headphones in each category, including earbuds, in-ear monitors, studio headphones, and classic headphones. Some are more versatile, and some are best used as backups, but we’ve strived to find the models that could change your drumming game.
The models we’ve picked are meant to cater to the needs of all drummers, regardless of skill level, experience, and playing style.
A musician with over 2 decades of experience in studio recording. Audiophile, always in pursuit of the perfect set of headphones. King Crimson fan.
This post was last updated on 2023-09-26 / Some images from Amazon Product API & some links may be affiliate links which may earn us a commission from purchases.