The best headphones for podcasting can genuinely make a difference in terms of recording professional-grade sound. To be exact, you can make editing part of all your podcasting audio files hassle-free with a pair of quality podcast headphones.
But what really makes something a good pick as podcasting headphones? Well, there’re some factors that it needs to pass.
To begin with the headphone should offer a good level of comfort. No matter whether you’re a newbie to podcasts or a seasoned veteran, your live sessions need to be at least 20 to 40 minutes long. That’s basically the minimum requirement.
Secondly, the headphones should let you carry out the live session without getting distracted. Even if you’re experienced, you can’t discuss the podcast’s topic with total concentration when the ambient sound seeps through the earcups.
Therefore, even if there’s no Active Noise Cancellation, the headphones should be able to block out passive noise.
Last but not least, the podcast headphone needs to come with a neutral sound profile. This profile lets you ensure an accurate and clear dialogue reproduction for your audience. Which of the available headphones excels in all the factors discussed above?
No need to try out all the top-rated headphones on the market. We’ve done that for you and narrowed down the options to three. Keep on reading to find out all about them!
3 Best Headphones for Podcasting
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
TL:DR;
Beyerdynamic has premium-grade headphones that’re great for podcasts. But if you want to get the most value, you need to check out the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro. Even though you can’t technically regard the headphone as high-end, the drivers do a great job of delivering a wide passive soundstage.
You’ll get an analytical sound that’ll enable you to ensure the best possible podcast experience for your audience. And as the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is closed back, there’s no chance of audio spills. So, your podcasting microphone on your setup won’t pick up any of the audio on the headphone’s drivers.
There’s no ANC tech, but the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro can offer good passive noise cancellation. Also, the build quality is excellent, allowing you to get a comfortable recording session.
The Specs
- Type: Over-ear
- Wireless: No
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- ANC: No
- Integrated Microphone: No
What’s in the Box?
- Drawstring bag
- 6.3mm adapter
Stuff I like
- Wide soundstage
- Neutral sound
- Comfortable build
- Closed-back and minimal audio bleed
- Great passive noise cancellation
Stuff I like less
- The frequency response is not totally flat
- It can be a bit large for some podcasters
Where to get it
Audio-Technica ATH-M20X
TL:DR;
You might’ve already spent a lot on your podcast setup. Well, there’s no need to put more dents on your wallet. Getting a good pair of podcast headphones at a budget-friendly range is entirely possible! Take the Audio-Technica ATH-M20X, for example.
Although the build quality doesn’t feel as nice as costlier alternatives, the Audio-Technica ATH-M20X excels in audio. The mid-range response is highly accurate, and it ensures that you get to hear detailed and clear voices. And the closed-back nature provides lower levels of audio bleed during the recording sessions.
That said, the build quality isn’t that bad. For the price, the Audio-Technica ATH-M20X is exceptionally comfortable to wear. You get a breathable fit that’ll make long recording sessions easier. Also, this pair of podcasting headphones offer good passive noise cancellation.
The Specs
- Type: Over-ear
- Wireless: No
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- ANC: No
- Integrated Microphone: No
What’s in the Box?
- 1/4″ Snap-On Adapter
Stuff I like
- Extremely affordable
- Great mid-range audio production
- Can produce voices with exceptional clarity and accuracy
- Comfortable design
- Good passive noise cancellation
Stuff I like less
- Tends to leak audio in high volumes
- The frame is relatively thinner than the competition
Where to get it
Sennheiser HD 400S
TL:DR;
If you’re just getting into podcasts, the Sennheiser HD 400S should be at the top of your list. It’s also a great pick as the best headphones for podcasting for seasoned podcasters.
To start with, the Sennheiser HD 400S comes with German-engineered 32mm transducers. These 18-ohm transducers can ensure a detailed and dynamic sound that’ll let you ensure a professional-grade podcast recording session. The sound profile is balanced too. That’s another audio aspect that headphones at this price point can’t deliver.
Besides that, the Sennheiser HD 400S excels in providing extraordinary passive noise cancellation. It has an around-ear design that Sennheiser ergonomically designed to ensure that ambient noise stays in the background and doesn’t get into your ears. You won’t get distracted even when a lot’s happening behind you.
There’s a built-in microphone too. Although, it’s not podcast grade but it can be useful when you casually use the headphone and want to take calls.
Lastly, the Sennheiser HD 400S can offer a secure and comfortable fit. You can record for hours without facing any ear or head fatigue.
The Specs
- Type: Around-ear
- Wireless: No
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- ANC: No
- Integrated Microphone: Yes
What’s in the Box?
- RCS 400 detachable single-sided cable
Stuff I like
- Comfort-forward and highly ergonomic design
- Offers great sound isolation
- Can produce clear and accurate sound
- Has a built-in microphone, making it highly versatile
- Provides a secure fit and minimal sound leaks
Stuff I like less
- Not ideal headphone if you wear glasses
- The fit can be a bit tight for some
Where to get it
Quick Summary of the Best Headphones for Podcasting
In short, not all the headphones out there’re great for podcasting. Yes, some can offer great audio production. But where most of them fail is in terms of noise isolation and comfort.
But the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro, Audio-Technica ATH-M20X, and Sennheiser HD 400S aren’t one of them. These headphones pass all the essential factors a podcast headphone should’ve with flying colors. So, you can’t go wrong with either 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 2024-11-13 / Some images from Amazon Product API & some links may be affiliate links which may earn us a commission from purchases.