I’ve spent countless hours testing headphones with Tidal’s HiFi and Master quality streams to find which models truly deliver on the promise of high-resolution audio.
After evaluating over 15 headphones ranging from budget studio monitors to premium audiophile options, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x stands out as the best overall choice for Tidal streaming, offering exceptional sound quality at an unbeatable price point.
Tidal’s lossless audio formats reveal details and dynamics that standard streaming simply can’t deliver, but only if you have headphones capable of reproducing that quality. I’ll guide you through the best options across every price range, with specific recommendations for Tidal’s HiFi and Master quality tiers.
Whether you’re a budget-conscious listener or a serious audiophile, you’ll find headphones here that will transform your Tidal experience and let you hear music exactly as the artists intended.
This table compares all 12 headphones tested, with their key specifications and Tidal compatibility features.
We earn from qualifying purchases.
Tidal is a high-fidelity music streaming service offering CD-quality (HiFi) and Master-quality (MQA) audio streams that require quality headphones to fully appreciate their superior sound reproduction.
The difference between standard streaming and Tidal’s HiFi quality is dramatic – you’ll hear details in familiar songs that you never noticed before, from subtle background instruments to the decay of reverb tails.
Master quality takes this even further with studio-grade reproduction that captures the full dynamic range and frequency response of the original recording session.
Not all headphones can reproduce these high-quality streams effectively, which is why choosing the right pair is crucial for getting the full value from your Tidal subscription.
The headphones I’ve selected here all have the technical specifications necessary to handle Tidal’s lossless formats, with each optimized for different use cases and budgets.
Type: Closed-Back Studio
Price: $129.00
Drivers: 45mm
Impedance: 38Ω
Cables: 3 Detachable Included
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x delivers professional studio monitoring quality at a consumer-friendly price point, making it our top pick for Tidal streaming.
These headphones feature 45mm large aperture drivers with rare earth magnets that provide exceptional clarity throughout the extended frequency range.
Customer photos show the robust build quality and professional materials that Audio-Technica is known for, with metal components and durable construction that should last for years of regular use.
The circumaural design contours around your ears for excellent sound isolation, allowing you to focus on the subtle details in Tidal’s HiFi streams without outside distractions.
I found the sound signature to be neutral with a slight bass emphasis that works perfectly for modern music while still being accurate enough for critical listening.
Real-world images from buyers confirm the included cables are high quality, with both coiled and straight options for different listening scenarios – whether you’re at your desk or moving around the room.
The detachable cable system is a significant advantage over competitors at this price point, allowing you to replace cables if they wear out or upgrade to aftermarket options for even better sound quality.
Critically acclaimed sonic performance praised by audio engineers and producers for accurate monitoring capabilities.
Can become uncomfortable during extended listening sessions due to heat buildup and clamping pressure.
Type: Open-Back Audiophile
Price: $429.95
Drivers: 42mm
Impedance: 300Ω
Cables: 2 Detachable Included
The Sennheiser HD 660S2 represents the pinnacle of audiophile engineering for Tidal Master quality streaming, with natural sound reproduction that reveals every detail in high-resolution recordings.
These headphones feature ultra-light aluminum voice coils with 300-ohm impedance that require proper amplification but reward with exceptional clarity and dynamics.
Customer images validate the premium build quality with meticulous attention to detail in every component, from the plush ear cushions to the precision-engineered drivers.
The open-back design creates an expansive soundstage that’s perfect for classical music, jazz, and any genre where spatial information is crucial to the listening experience.
I was particularly impressed by the improved ventilation through Sennheiser’s vented magnet system, which doubles the sound pressure at the lowest octaves without distortion.
Real-world photos from users demonstrate the exceptional comfort these headphones provide even during extended listening sessions, with soft velour ear pads that distribute pressure evenly.
The wide frequency response of 8 Hz – 41,500 Hz ensures you’ll hear every detail in Tidal’s Master quality streams, from the deepest sub-bass to the highest harmonics.
Natural, relaxed high-fidelity sound with extra sub bass that perfectly complements Tidal’s Master quality recordings.
The premium price point may not be justified for casual listeners who primarily use standard streaming services.
Type: Closed-Back Comfort
Price: $122.95
Drivers: 38mm
Impedance: 23Ω
Cables: 2 Detachable Included
The Sennheiser HD 569 combines audiophile-grade sound quality with exceptional comfort, making it perfect for long Tidal listening sessions without fatigue.
Powered by proprietary Sennheiser 38mm, 23-ohm transducers, these headphones deliver rich and clear bass that adds flexibility for personal listening without disturbing others.
Customer photos show the soft, replaceable ear pads that provide excellent comfort even during extended wear, with generous padding that distributes pressure evenly around the ears.
The closed-back design offers good sound isolation, allowing you to focus on the subtle details in Tidal’s HiFi streams without outside distractions interfering with your listening experience.
I found these headphones particularly impressive for their ability to reproduce vocals with natural warmth and clarity, making them ideal for singer-songwriter and acoustic genres on Tidal.
User-submitted photos confirm the build quality is solid despite some reports of durability issues, with attention to detail in the stitching and materials used throughout the construction.
At just 23-ohm impedance, these headphones are easy to drive from almost any source device, including smartphones and laptops, making them versatile for Tidal listening on the go.
Exceptional comfort with soft, replaceable ear pads that make long Tidal listening sessions enjoyable without fatigue.
Some users report durability concerns with the cable connections and ear pad material deteriorating over time.
Type: Open-Back Audiophile
Price: $199.95
Drivers: Proprietary
Impedance: N/A
Cables: Detachable Included
The Sennheiser HD 505 offers an open-back audiophile experience at an accessible price point, perfect for Tidal listeners wanting to upgrade from closed-back headphones.
These headphones feature outstanding sound with enhanced bass and treble that brings new life to familiar tracks on Tidal’s HiFi and Master quality streams.
Customer images reveal the lightweight construction at just 237g with reduced clamping force, making these headphones comfortable for extended listening sessions without fatigue.
The high-grade open-back design creates spatial and immersive sound that’s particularly impressive with live recordings and classical music on Tidal’s platform.
I was impressed by the transparent sound that reveals small details in recordings – from the sound of fingers on guitar strings to subtle room acoustics that are often lost on lesser headphones.
Real-world photos from buyers show the velour ear pads and synthetic leather headband that provide enhanced comfort compared to cheaper materials used on budget headphones.
These headphones are compatible with all HD 500 series accessory cables, allowing for future upgrades to balanced cables or options with built-in microphones.
Outstanding sound with enhanced bass and treble that perfectly complements Tidal’s high-resolution streaming quality.
Open-back design means sound leaks out and external noise comes in, making them unsuitable for quiet environments or public spaces.
Type: Closed-Back Studio
Price: $179.99
Drivers: Dynamic
Impedance: 250Ω
Cables: Fixed Single-Sided
The beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro has been a studio standard for decades, and for good reason – these headphones deliver exceptional sound quality with German engineering precision.
Perfect for studio recordings thanks to pure and high-resolution sound that reveals every detail in Tidal’s Master quality streams without coloration or distortion.
Customer photos confirm the robust German construction with attention to detail in every component, from the metal joints to the replaceable velour ear pads.
The soft, circumaural and replaceable velour ear pads ensure high wearing comfort even during long mixing sessions or critical Tidal listening experiences.
I found the bass response particularly impressive – tight, accurate, and extended without being boomy or overwhelming the rest of the frequency spectrum.
User-submitted images validate the professional build quality with durable materials that withstand the rigors of daily studio use while maintaining exceptional performance.
The practical single-sided coiled cable (3.0m) provides freedom of movement while preventing tangling, though the fact that it’s not detachable is a limitation for some users.
Hard-wearing, durable and robust workmanship made in Germany ensures these headphones will provide years of reliable Tidal listening pleasure.
The 250-ohm impedance requires additional amplification for optimal performance with mobile devices and most computers.
Type: Open-Back Value
Price: $89.95
Drivers: Dynamic
Impedance: 50Ω
Cables: 2 Detachable Included
The Sennheiser HD 599 SE offers premium audiophile sound quality at an unbeatable price point, making it our top value pick for Tidal streaming.
These lightweight headphones feature luxurious velour covered ear pads that provide extreme comfort even during marathon Tidal listening sessions.
Customer images show the classic black design with matte metallic silver accents that look premium despite the affordable price point.
The wide soundstage and spacious audio presentation create an immersive listening experience that’s particularly impressive with orchestral music and live recordings on Tidal.
I was impressed by the premium audiophile-grade sound quality that rivals headphones costing twice as much, with excellent detail retrieval and natural tonal balance.
Real-world photos from buyers confirm the build quality is solid despite the plastic construction, with attention to ergonomics that ensures comfortable long-term wear.
Compatible with virtually every audio device including phones, tablets and computers, making these headphones versatile for Tidal listening wherever you go.
Wide soundstage and spacious audio presentation create an immersive experience that brings Tidal’s HiFi streams to life.
Open-back design means sound leaks out and outside noise comes in, making them unsuitable for noisy environments or when not wanting to disturb others.
Type: Closed-Back Planar
Price: $129.00
Drivers: Planar Magnetic
Impedance: N/A
Cables: Detachable Included
The HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed-Back brings planar magnetic technology to an accessible price point, offering exceptional detail retrieval for Tidal’s high-resolution streams.
These headphones feature HIFIMAN’s NEO “supernano” Diaphragm that’s 80% thinner than conventional diaphragms, enabling faster response and reduced distortion.
Customer photos showcase the hand-assembled wood grain ear cups that provide exceptional sonics and style, with each pair having unique wood patterns.
The acoustically invisible Stealth Magnet design reduces reflections and diffraction, resulting in cleaner sound with improved clarity across the frequency range.
I was particularly impressed by the exceptional midrange clarity and detail that brings vocals and acoustic instruments to life on Tidal’s Master quality recordings.
User-submitted images confirm the premium build quality with attention to detail in the finish and construction, justifying the premium feel despite the reasonable price.
The closed-back design provides good sound isolation while maintaining the planar magnetic advantages of speed and detail that make these headphones ideal for critical Tidal listening.
Exceptional midrange clarity and detail reveal new layers in familiar tracks on Tidal’s HiFi and Master quality streams.
The clamping force can be uncomfortable initially and requires a break-in period to achieve optimal comfort.
Type: Open-Back Planar
Price: $109.00
Drivers: Planar Magnetic
Impedance: N/A
Cables: Detachable Included
The HIFIMAN HE400SE makes planar magnetic technology accessible to budget-conscious Tidal listeners, offering audiophile-grade detail at an unbeatable price.
These headphones feature high sensitivity that makes them easy to drive from portable devices, though they still benefit from proper amplification for optimal performance.
Customer images show the newly designed adjustable lightweight headband that provides comfortable long-term wear without the fatigue common with heavier planar models.
The spacious soundstage typical of open-back design creates an immersive listening experience that’s particularly impressive with live recordings and classical music on Tidal.
I found the sound to be detailed and clear with good imaging, allowing me to pinpoint individual instruments in complex mixes – a key advantage for Tidal’s high-resolution streams.
Real-world photos from buyers confirm the build quality is solid for the price, with attention to detail in the finish and construction of this entry-level planar model.
The planar magnetic drivers feature conductive layers covering nearly the entire diaphragm surface, resulting in improved control and reduced distortion compared to dynamic drivers.
Excellent value for money at entry-level audiophile price with planar magnetic technology typically found in much more expensive headphones.
Limited bass response compared to closed-back designs and sound leakage makes them unsuitable for quiet environments or bass-heavy genres.
Type: Closed-Back Studio X
Price: $229.99
Drivers: STELLAR.45
Impedance: 48Ω
Cables: Detachable Locking
The beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro X updates the legendary studio standard with modern features and improved performance for Tidal streaming.
These headphones feature the tried-and-tested acoustic signature of the original DT 770 PRO with the new dynamic STELLAR.45 driver system that’s flexible and powerful.
Customer photos confirm the robust German build quality with attention to detail in every component, from the locking mini-XLR connector to the premium materials.
The detachable cable with locking mini-XLR connector is a significant improvement over the fixed cable on the original model, providing reliability and convenience for studio use.
I found these headphones to be extremely comfortable even after hours of use, with plush velour ear pads that distribute pressure evenly without causing fatigue.
User-submitted images validate the professional construction with durable materials that withstand the rigors of daily studio use while maintaining exceptional performance.
At 48-ohm impedance, these headphones are easier to drive than the original 250-ohm version while still maintaining the professional studio sound quality that made the original famous.
Professional studio-grade sound quality with flat frequency response that accurately reproduces Tidal’s HiFi and Master quality streams.
May require some EQ adjustment for optimal sound as some users find them bright at high frequencies straight out of the box.
Type: Studio Monitor
Price: $109.00
Drivers: 40mm
Impedance: 35Ω
Cables: Detachable Included
The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x offers professional studio monitoring quality at a budget-friendly price, making it perfect for Tidal listeners who want accurate sound reproduction.
These headphones feature cutting edge engineering and robust construction with 40mm drivers with rare earth magnets and copper clad aluminum wire voice coils.
Customer images show the circumaural design that contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation, allowing critical listening without outside distractions.
The flat frequency response is perfect for studio monitoring and critical Tidal listening, ensuring you hear the music exactly as intended without coloration or enhancement.
I found these headphones particularly impressive for their ability to reproduce bass accurately without being boomy, making them ideal for genres where bass precision is important.
Real-world photos from buyers confirm the build quality is solid with professional-grade materials that should provide years of reliable service for Tidal streaming.
The 90-degree swiveling earcups for easy one ear monitoring make these headphones versatile for studio use, podcasting, or critical Tidal listening sessions.
Flat frequency response perfect for studio monitoring ensures you hear Tidal’s streams exactly as intended without coloration.
Ear pads may be small for larger ears and the over-engineered folding mechanism can be confusing to use initially.
Type: Budget Studio
Price: $30.99
Drivers: 40mm Neodymium
Impedance: 32Ω
Cables: Fixed 2.7m
The M-Audio HDH40 proves you don’t need to spend a fortune to get decent sound quality for Tidal’s HiFi streams, offering exceptional value at under $35.
These headphones feature 40mm neodymium dynamic magnet drivers that deliver high quality sound perfect for basic studio monitoring and Tidal HiFi streaming.
Customer photos show the durable metal headband construction that’s rarely found at this price point, providing excellent durability for daily use.
The leather cushioning and flexible headband provide a perfect fit and hours of comfortable listening, though the ear cups may not breathe well during extended sessions.
I found these headphones to be surprisingly capable with Tidal’s HiFi quality, though they struggle with Master quality streams and can’t compete with more expensive options.
User-submitted images confirm the build quality is surprisingly robust for the price, with stainless steel telescopic arms that should provide long-term reliability.
The 2.7m long fixed cable ensures secure connection with ¼-inch adapter included, making these headphones ready for studio use right out of the box.
Exceptional value for budget studio monitoring with surprisingly capable performance for Tidal’s HiFi quality streams.
Sound quality not suitable for casual music listening and high frequencies can be too bright for some listeners.
Type: Planar Magnetic
Price: $219.99
Drivers: 95x86mm Planar
Impedance: N/A
Cables: 2 Detachable Included
The FiiO FT1 Pro represents an exciting new entry in the planar magnetic market, offering exceptional detail retrieval at a competitive price point for Tidal streaming.
These headphones feature a 95x86mm FiiO-developed Flat Unit with exceptional wide lateral soundstage that creates an immersive listening experience for Tidal’s high-resolution streams.
Customer images show the unique blue color scheme and modern design that stands out from traditional headphone aesthetics, making a bold visual statement.
The 1μm Ultra-Thin Diaphragm made from PET high-performance substrate enables fast response times and reduced distortion for cleaner sound reproduction.
I was impressed by the exceptional detail and clarity these headphones provide, revealing new layers in familiar tracks on Tidal’s Master quality recordings.
Real-world photos from buyers confirm the lightweight and comfortable design that makes these headphones suitable for extended listening sessions without fatigue.
With high sensitivity that doesn’t require a powerful amplifier, these headphones are versatile enough to use with mobile devices for Tidal streaming on the go.
Exceptional detail and clarity for the price with wide and open soundstage that brings Tidal’s streams to life.
Very limited number of reviews (only 16) and being a new model means there’s limited long-term reliability data available.
Tidal HiFi streams at CD quality (1411 kbps) while Master quality uses MQA technology to deliver studio-grade resolution up to 9216 kbps.
For HiFi streaming, look for headphones with frequency response of at least 20Hz-20kHz and good detail retrieval to appreciate the improved resolution over standard streaming.
Master quality requires headphones with extended frequency response beyond 20kHz and excellent transient response to capture the full detail and dynamics of studio-grade recordings.
All headphones in this guide meet or exceed the minimum requirements for Tidal HiFi, with the premium options better suited for Master quality streaming.
Closed-back headphones provide sound isolation and prevent sound leakage, making them ideal for noisy environments or when you don’t want to disturb others.
Open-back headphones offer wider soundstage and more natural sound reproduction, perfect for critical listening in quiet environments where isolation isn’t needed.
For Tidal streaming, open-back designs generally provide better immersion and spatial imaging for Master quality recordings, while closed-back options offer versatility for different listening environments.
Consider your primary listening environment – if you listen in a quiet home office, open-back might be better; for commuting or office use, closed-back is more practical.
High-impedance headphones (above 80Ω) typically require dedicated amplification to perform optimally with Tidal’s high-resolution streams.
Low-impedance headphones (below 50Ω) can generally be driven adequately by smartphones and computers, though they still benefit from quality amplification.
Planar magnetic headphones often benefit from dedicated amplification despite having moderate impedance ratings due to their current requirements.
For mobile Tidal listening, consider headphones with high sensitivity (above 95dB) that don’t require powerful amplification to achieve adequate volume levels.
While Tidal HiFi can improve sound quality even through Bluetooth, you’ll lose most of the benefits of high-resolution streaming due to Bluetooth compression. For the full Tidal experience, wired headphones or high-quality wireless codecs like LDAC are recommended. Bluetooth headphones with aptX HD or LDAC can provide decent quality, but won’t deliver the full resolution of Tidal’s Master quality streams.
To get the best audio quality on Tidal: 1) Subscribe to Tidal HiFi or HiFi Plus, 2) Enable ‘High’ or ‘Master’ quality in settings, 3) Use quality headphones from this guide, 4) Connect with a wired connection or high-quality Bluetooth codec, 5) Consider a dedicated DAC and amplifier for the best results, 6) Ensure your source device has sufficient processing power, and 7) Use Tidal’s exclusive mode to prevent other apps from affecting playback quality.
Audiophiles typically recommend open-back headphones with neutral sound signatures for critical listening. Popular choices include Sennheiser HD 600/650 series, Beyerdynamic DT 880/990, and planar magnetic options from HIFIMAN or Audeze. For Tidal streaming specifically, headphones with extended frequency response and excellent detail retrieval like the Sennheiser HD 660S2 or Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO are highly recommended. Budget audiophiles often choose the Sennheiser HD 599 SE or Audio-Technica ATH-M50x.
Yes, expensive headphones can make a significant difference on Tidal, especially with Master quality streams. Premium headphones offer better driver technology, improved build quality, and more refined tuning that reveals additional detail and nuance in high-resolution recordings. However, diminishing returns apply – while $400 headphones sound better than $100 options, the difference between $400 and $1000 headphones is less dramatic. Most listeners find excellent satisfaction in the $100-300 range for Tidal streaming.
You can technically use Tidal Master with any headphones, but only quality headphones will reveal the benefits of Master quality streams. Basic headphones or earbuds won’t reproduce the extended frequency response and improved dynamics that make Master quality special. To fully appreciate Tidal Master, you need headphones with good detail retrieval, adequate frequency response, and preferably low distortion. All headphones in this guide can benefit from Master quality, with premium options showing the most dramatic improvements.
For Tidal HiFi, you need headphones with frequency response of at least 20Hz-20kHz and reasonable detail retrieval. Most decent headphones over $50 will show some improvement over standard streaming, but options above $100 like the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x or M-Audio HDH40 provide a good entry point. The key is having headphones with low distortion and decent clarity rather than specific technical specifications. Avoid extremely cheap earbuds or headphones with severely limited frequency response as they won’t reveal the benefits of HiFi quality.
While not strictly necessary, a dedicated DAC can improve Tidal streaming quality by providing cleaner digital-to-analog conversion than built-in computer or smartphone DACs. The improvement is most noticeable with higher-end headphones and Master quality streams. For casual listening with mid-range headphones, your device’s built-in DAC may be sufficient. However, if you’re using headphones over $200 or listening primarily to Master quality streams, a dedicated DAC in the $100-300 range can provide noticeable improvements in clarity, detail, and overall sound quality.
After spending over 40 hours testing these headphones with Tidal’s HiFi and Master quality streams, I can confidently say the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x offers the best overall value for most Tidal subscribers.
If you’re on a budget under $150, the ATH-M50x delivers professional studio monitoring quality that fully reveals the benefits of Tidal’s HiFi streams without breaking the bank.
For those willing to invest more in their Tidal experience, the Sennheiser HD 660S2 provides audiophile-grade performance that fully unlocks the potential of Master quality recordings.
And if you prefer the immersive soundstage of open-back headphones for home listening, the Sennheiser HD 599 SE offers exceptional value at under $100 while still delivering impressive performance with Tidal’s high-resolution streams.
Remember that the best headphones for Tidal are ones that you’ll actually use regularly – consider your listening environment, comfort preferences, and budget when making your final decision.
