Doing extensive research is the best way to obtain high-quality recording headphones. Understanding what you need from a pair of headphones is a good place to start when looking for the best ones for recording. Read recording technology magazines to learn about the latest developments in the field. Research the headphones within your price range to find the best value for your money, keeping the high-end features in mind. Having basic features such as a balanced connector and a standard frequency response range can help you get a responsive pair of headphones.
The highest level at which a system performs is the weakest link in the system. This means that even if you have the best audio console, recording software, and speakers, if you use low-quality recording headphones, you’ll only hear the best sound the headphones can produce, not the sound quality from the high-end gear. Determine which headphones and features are appropriate for your price range researching the types of headphones used your favorite musicians and recording professionals. In general, recording headphones are full coverage, which means they fit completely over the ear to block out external noise. In-ear and open headphones, for example, are not typically used for professional recording.
The frequency range is another important feature of headphones. Look for headphones with a frequency range of 20 to 20,000 hertz as a minimum (Hz). The frequency range can be found looking at the product specifications on the product packaging or on the company’s website that makes the recording headphones.
The type of connectors on your headphones can also affect the sound quality. If you want to avoid hissing and interference in your recording headphones, look for balanced connectors. Unbalanced headphones have one more conductor than balanced audio connectors. Looking at the plug that connects to the recording console or output device is the easiest way to tell if a pair of headphones has balanced connectors. You have a balanced connector if the plug is divided into three segments two black rings instead of two segments one black ring.
Gold-plated plugs, though they may appear to be an unnecessary extravagance, can help ensure that your headphones conduct sound well. In audio equipment, highly conductive metals like gold can help improve sound quality. Because not all gold-colored connectors are genuine gold, you must check the headphone specifications to see if the connector is genuine gold.