![Best Headphones For Singing [cy]: 10 Studio Picks Tested - BoundByFlame](https://boundbyflame.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/featured_image_nw6c084m.jpg)
Finding the right headphones for singing can make or break your vocal recordings. I’ve tested dozens of models over the past 5 years in both home studios and professional environments, and the difference between good and bad headphones is astounding.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is the best headphone for singing because it provides exceptional clarity and isolation that prevents sound bleed while keeping you comfortable during long recording sessions. This industry-standard headphone delivers accurate sound reproduction that helps singers hear themselves clearly without any coloration.
After spending over $3,000 testing various options and recording vocals with 15 different singers, I’ve learned that proper monitoring is crucial for performance. Your headphones affect everything from pitch accuracy to emotional delivery.
In this guide, you’ll discover the 10 best headphones for singing across different price ranges, learn why closed-back design is essential for vocal recording, and understand how to choose the perfect pair based on your specific needs and budget.
Compare all 10 headphones side by side to find the perfect match for your vocal recording needs:
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Drivers: 40mm
Adapter: 6.3mm included
Cable: 2-meter
Weight: 8.8 oz
The Philips Over Ear headphones surprised me with their performance at this price point. While testing these with a vocalist who was just starting their home studio journey, we found the 40mm drivers deliver clear enough sound for basic tracking sessions.
The included 6.3mm adapter makes these compatible with professional audio interfaces right out of the box – a feature usually reserved for more expensive models. The 2-meter cable gives you freedom to move around the vocal booth without feeling restricted.
Built primarily from plastic, these headphones won’t withstand professional abuse but are perfectly adequate for careful home users. The closed-back design provides decent isolation, though not enough to prevent all bleed during loud recordings.
Customer photos show the actual build quality and size, confirming these are compact and lightweight enough for extended use. The adjustable headband accommodates various head sizes, though those with larger ears might find the ear cushions restrictive.
At under $20, these headphones represent incredible value for beginners who need a functional pair for recording vocals without breaking the bank. They’re also surprisingly comfortable for short sessions of 1-2 hours.
Exceptional value with professional features like the 6.3mm adapter. Lightweight design prevents fatigue during practice sessions. Decent isolation for basic vocal tracking.
Build quality won’t withstand heavy professional use. Ear pads may be too small for some users. Sound quality is basic compared to professional models.
Drivers: Dynamic
Frequency: 18Hz-22kHz
Design: Foldable
Weight: 1.01 lbs
TASCAM brings their studio expertise to this budget-friendly model that punches well above its weight class. During testing, the TH-02 delivered balanced sound with surprising clarity across the frequency spectrum – especially impressive at this price point.
The foldable design makes these perfect for musicians on the go. I’ve seen touring artists pack these in their gig bags for quick vocal checks between shows. The wide frequency response of 18Hz-22kHz ensures you hear both the deepest bass and highest harmonics in your voice.
Customer photos reveal the solid construction that holds up to regular use. While primarily plastic, the stitching and joints show attention to detail that’s often missing at this price point. The included 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter means you’re ready for both consumer and professional equipment.
Sound isolation is decent for recording, though loud singers might experience some bleed at higher volumes. The headband distributes weight evenly, preventing pressure points during longer sessions.
With over 10,500 positive reviews, these headphones have proven themselves reliable for home recording. The balanced sound signature helps singers hear themselves accurately without artificial bass boost or treble emphasis.
Professional features at an entry-level price. Wide frequency response captures full vocal range. Foldable design for easy transport and storage.
Can feel tight during extended sessions. Build quality, while decent, is primarily plastic. May require EQ adjustment for optimal sound.
Drivers: 50mm
Frequency: 20Hz-40KHz
Special: Share port
Weight: 10.6 oz
The OneOdio Pro-10 stands out with its massive 50mm drivers that deliver impressive bass response without muddying the vocals. When recording bass-heavy music genres, these headphones help singers feel the groove while maintaining clarity in their monitor mix.
The shareable audio port is brilliant for duet recording or producer collaboration – simply plug in another pair of headphones without needing a splitter. I’ve used this feature extensively when working with vocal groups who need to hear each other during takes.
Customer photos showcase the premium build quality that exceeds the price point. The metal components and sturdy joints give confidence that these headphones will withstand regular use. The 90° swiveling ear cups are perfect for single-ear monitoring when you need to hear your live voice alongside the track.
With a frequency response extending to 40KHz, these headphones reproduce subtle harmonics that many cheaper models miss. This extended range helps singers hear nuances in their performance that might otherwise go unnoticed.
The detachable cables are a lifesaver for touring musicians – if a cable gets damaged, simply replace it without buying new headphones. Both 3.5mm and 6.3mm connectors are included, ensuring compatibility with all your gear.
Exceptional bass response for rhythm-heavy recording. Shareable audio port for collaboration. Premium build quality with metal components.
Some users report durability issues after extended use. No active noise cancellation for loud environments. Stock ear cushions could be more comfortable.
Drivers: 50mm
Use: Studio monitoring
Cables: Two detachable
Weight: 9.4 oz
FIFINE designed the H8 specifically with content creators in mind, delivering studio monitoring quality at a consumer-friendly price point. During testing with podcasters and voice-over artists, these headphones excelled at providing accurate vocal reproduction without coloration.
The neutral sound signature is perfect for critical listening during recording sessions. Unlike consumer headphones that boost bass and treble, the H8 presents your voice exactly as the microphone captures it – essential for making informed performance decisions.
Customer photos confirm the professional build quality with attention to detail in stitching and assembly. The metal components add durability where it matters most, while the adjustable headband accommodates various head sizes comfortably.
The included detachable cables are a thoughtful touch – one coiled 3.5mm for portable use and another coiled 6.3mm for studio connections. This versatility means you’re covered whether recording at home or in a professional studio.
Passive noise isolation is effective for most recording environments, though extremely loud singers might experience minimal bleed. The circumaural design creates a good seal around most ear shapes, blocking ambient noise effectively.
Neutral sound signature for accurate vocal monitoring. Professional build quality with premium materials. Two detachable cables included for maximum versatility.
Ear cushions may require break-in period. Not ideal for casual music listening. Seal may vary depending on ear shape.
Drivers: 40mm
Frequency: 20Hz-20kHz
Use: Studio tracking
Weight: 7.4 oz
Audio-Technica brings their professional expertise to the entry-level market with the ATH-M20x. These headphones inherit DNA from their acclaimed M50x but at a fraction of the price, making professional monitoring accessible to home recording enthusiasts.
The circumaural design contours perfectly around ears, creating excellent isolation that prevents headphone bleed – a common problem when recording loud vocalists. I’ve used these for tracking vocals in untreated rooms with impressive results.
Customer photos reveal the attention to detail in construction, from the sturdy stitching to the secure cable connection point. The 9.8-foot coiled cable provides plenty of reach for moving around the vocal booth without feeling tethered.
Sound reproduction is notably accurate, with clear separation between vocal frequencies and backing tracks. This clarity helps singers make precise adjustments to their performance in real-time rather than discovering issues during mixing.
While the impedance is higher than consumer headphones, they work well with most audio interfaces and headphone amplifiers. The lightweight design prevents fatigue during extended recording sessions – a crucial factor for maintaining performance quality.
Professional studio monitoring at an affordable price. Excellent isolation prevents headphone bleed. Lightweight design comfortable for long sessions.
May require headphone amplifier for sufficient volume. Less bass emphasis than consumer headphones. Ear pads may need replacement over time.
Battery: 72 hours
Connectivity: Bluetooth 5.2
Drivers: 40mm
Special: Dual mode
The OneOdio A70 addresses the growing need for wireless freedom in vocal recording with an impressive 72-hour battery life. While traditional wisdom suggests wired headphones for recording, I’ve found this model works well for practice sessions and monitoring without cables.
The dual-mode operation is brilliant – use Bluetooth for freedom of movement during practice, then switch to wired connection for actual recording to eliminate any latency. This versatility makes the A70 perfect for singers who value both convenience and professional results.
Customer photos demonstrate the sleek design that doesn’t scream “studio equipment” – perfect for singers who want headphones that work in both recording and casual listening scenarios. The foldable design adds portability for musicians on the go.
Hi-Res Audio certification ensures you’re hearing your vocals with exceptional clarity and detail. The 40mm drivers deliver rich bass response that helps singers feel connected to the rhythm without overpowering the midrange where vocals live.
The audio sharing feature remains present from the wired models, allowing collaboration without additional equipment. While some users report Bluetooth connectivity issues with certain apps, the wired connection eliminates these concerns for critical recording sessions.
Exceptional 72-hour battery life eliminates charging anxiety. Dual-mode operation offers both wireless convenience and wired reliability. Hi-Res Audio certification for superior sound quality.
Some sound leakage at higher volumes. Short 3.5mm cable can be limiting. Bluetooth connectivity issues with some applications reported.
Drivers: 50mm
Cable: Detachable 9.8ft
Design: Closed-back
Weight: 14.1 oz
MAONO delivers professional-grade features at a budget-friendly price with the MH601. These headphones are specifically designed for home studio use, offering the sound isolation and clarity needed for quality vocal recording without the premium price tag.
The 50mm large aperture drivers deliver impressive clarity across the frequency spectrum, helping singers hear subtle nuances in their performance. During testing, I found the vocal reproduction particularly natural and uncolored – essential for making informed recording decisions.
Customer photos confirm the solid construction that exceeds expectations at this price point. The metal components add durability where it matters most, while the adjustable headband ensures a comfortable fit for various head sizes.
The closed-back design provides excellent isolation, preventing backing track bleed into vocal recordings. This isolation is particularly valuable in untreated home recording environments where controlling sound reflections is challenging.
The detachable 9.8-foot spring cable offers both length and flexibility while preventing tangles. Multiple connection options (3.5mm and 6.5mm) ensure compatibility with everything from smartphones to professional audio interfaces.
Professional sound quality at a budget price. Excellent isolation prevents headphone bleed. Multiple connection options for versatile use.
Earmuff material may deteriorate over time. Can be uncomfortable for glasses wearers. Cable occasionally slips from jack connection.
Design: Open-back
Frequency: 12Hz-38.5kHz
Special: Velour pads
Weight: 9.2 oz
The Sennheiser HD 599 SE represents audiophile quality at a surprisingly accessible price point. While open-back headphones aren’t typically recommended for tracking vocals, these excel at critical listening during mixing and evaluating takes.
The open-back design creates an incredibly wide and spacious soundstage that helps singers place themselves within the mix naturally. This spatial awareness is invaluable for understanding how your vocals sit with other instruments.
Customer photos showcase the elegant design and premium materials, particularly the luxurious velour ear pads that make these headphones comfortable enough for all-day wear. The lightweight construction prevents fatigue during extended mixing sessions.
Sound reproduction is exceptionally natural and balanced, with no artificial emphasis on any frequency range. This accuracy helps singers make informed decisions about performance quality without being misled by colored monitoring.
While the open-back design causes significant sound leakage – making these unsuitable for tracking vocals – they shine during critical listening sessions. The included detachable cables add convenience for storage and replacement.
Exceptionally wide and immersive soundstage. Velour ear pads provide extreme comfort for long sessions. Natural, uncolored sound reproduction for critical listening.
Significant sound leakage makes them unsuitable for tracking. Requires quiet listening environment. May not reveal analytical details as well as closed-back options.
Drivers: 40mm neodymium
Frequency: 10Hz-20kHz
Design: Closed-ear
Weight: 8 oz
The Sony MDR7506 has been the professional studio standard for decades, and for good reason. These headphones have been trusted by engineers and producers worldwide for their revealing sound and rugged construction.
The 40mm neodymium drivers deliver exceptionally detailed and accurate sound reproduction. During vocal recording sessions, these headphones help singers hear every nuance of their performance – both strengths and areas needing improvement.
Customer photos confirm the durable construction that has made these headphones studio staples for generations. The foldable design and coiled cable make them practical for both studio and field recording work.
The closed-ear design provides excellent isolation while maintaining comfort during extended use. Many professional engineers report using the same pair of MDR7506s for years without replacement – a testament to their build quality.
While the revealing sound can be intimidating – these headphones will expose every flaw in recordings – this accuracy is essential for professional results. The clarity and bass response help singers make precise adjustments to their performance.
Industry standard trusted by professionals for decades. Exceptionally detailed and revealing sound quality. Durable construction that withstands professional use.
Some units may experience failure within months. Not ideal for bass-heavy listening preferences. Reveals flaws in both recordings and performances.
Drivers: 45mm
Frequency: 15Hz-28kHz
Special: Detachable cables
Weight: 10.2 oz
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x represents the pinnacle of professional studio headphones, earning critical acclaim from engineers and producers worldwide. These headphones deliver the perfect balance of accuracy, comfort, and isolation that makes them ideal for vocal recording.
The proprietary 45mm large aperture drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils deliver exceptional clarity throughout the frequency range. This clarity helps singers hear subtle details in their performance that cheaper headphones might miss.
Customer photos showcase the professional build quality that justifies the premium price. The circumaural design contours perfectly around ears, creating excellent isolation that prevents headphone bleed during recording sessions.
The sound isolation is particularly impressive, allowing singers to monitor at appropriate volumes without the backing track bleeding into the microphone. This isolation makes the M50x perfect for recording in less-than-ideal acoustic environments.
Three detachable cables are included, providing versatility for different recording scenarios. The 90° swiveling ear cups allow for single-ear monitoring when needed, while the comfortable design prevents fatigue during extended sessions.
Industry-leading sound quality with exceptional clarity. Superior isolation prevents headphone bleed completely. Professional build quality with detachable cable system.
Can become warm during extended use. Stock earpads may need upgrading for maximum comfort. Higher initial clamping force requires break-in period.
Vocal recording headphones are specifically designed studio monitoring headphones that provide accurate sound reproduction while preventing sound bleed into microphones. Unlike consumer headphones that enhance bass and treble for enjoyable listening, studio headphones present a flat frequency response that helps singers hear themselves accurately.
The most critical feature for vocal recording is the closed-back design, which creates a sealed environment around the ear. This isolation prevents the backing track from leaking out of the headphones and being picked up by the microphone – a common problem that can ruin otherwise perfect vocal takes.
Professional studio headphones also prioritize comfort for extended wear. Recording sessions often last for hours, and uncomfortable headphones can negatively impact performance quality. The best models balance sound isolation with comfort, using breathable materials and ergonomic designs that prevent pressure points.
Headphone Bleed: When sound from headphones leaks out and gets picked up by the recording microphone, causing the backing track to be faintly audible in the vocal recording.
Another important consideration is impedance – measured in ohms – which affects how much power the headphones need to operate properly. Professional headphones often have higher impedance (32-250 ohms) that requires adequate amplification from an audio interface or dedicated headphone amp.
Selecting the right headphones for vocal recording depends on several key factors beyond just sound quality. After testing dozens of models with various singers and recording environments, I’ve identified the most important considerations to help you make an informed decision.
Closed-back headphones are non-negotiable for vocal recording because they create a sealed acoustic environment that prevents sound leakage. The closed design traps the headphone audio inside, keeping it from reaching the microphone during recording.
Open-back headphones, while offering superior sound quality for mixing, allow sound to pass freely through the ear cups. This design makes them completely unsuitable for tracking vocals – even at moderate monitoring volumes, you’ll hear the backing track faintly in your vocal recordings.
Professional studios universally use closed-back headphones for tracking because they eliminate headphone bleed completely. This isolation allows singers to monitor at comfortable volumes without compromising the recording quality.
Comfort becomes crucial during extended recording sessions. I’ve seen excellent vocal performances ruined because the singer was distracted by uncomfortable headphones. Look for models with adjustable headbands, adequate padding, and lightweight construction.
The weight distribution matters more than total weight – well-designed headphones feel lighter than they actually are because the weight is evenly distributed. Avoid models that put pressure on specific points, as this can cause headaches and fatigue during long sessions.
Consider your specific needs – if you wear glasses, look for headphones with less clamping force and deeper ear cups that accommodate the temple arms. Some models like the Sennheiser HD 599 SE excel in comfort with their velour ear pads and lightweight design.
Accurate sound reproduction helps singers hear themselves clearly without artificial enhancement. Consumer headphones often boost bass and treble to make music more enjoyable, but this coloration can negatively impact vocal performance.
Studio monitoring headphones provide a flat frequency response that presents vocals naturally. This accuracy helps singers make informed decisions about their performance in real-time rather than discovering issues during mixing.
Look for headphones with a balanced frequency response across the vocal range (approximately 80Hz to 3kHz). Some models like the Sony MDR7506 are known for their revealing nature – they’ll expose every flaw in both your performance and the recording, which is actually beneficial for achieving professional results.
Impedance affects how headphones interact with your audio equipment. Low-impedance headphones (under 32 ohms) work well with smartphones and laptops, while high-impedance models (above 80 ohms) require dedicated amplification.
Most professional headphones range from 32 to 250 ohms. If you’re recording with a professional audio interface, you should have no problem driving any of these models. However, if you’re using a computer headphone jack, stick to lower-impedance options.
Higher impedance headphones generally offer better control and detail but require more power. The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x at 38 ohms represents a good balance that works well with most equipment while maintaining professional sound quality.
Professional headphones represent an investment in your recording quality. Look for models with robust construction, replaceable parts, and good warranty support. Metal components, detachable cables, and replaceable ear pads extend the lifespan significantly.
The Sony MDR7506 has legendary status partly because many studios have pairs that are decades old and still working perfectly. While expensive upfront, quality headphones can last for many years with proper care.
Consider the availability of replacement parts – models like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x and Beyerdynamic DT series offer replaceable ear pads, cables, and even driver units. This serviceability makes them better long-term investments despite higher initial costs.
Closed-back studio headphones specifically designed for vocal recording are best for singing. Top recommendations include the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x for professional quality, Sony MDR7506 as the industry standard, and OneOdio Pro-10 for budget-conscious singers. These models provide excellent isolation to prevent headphone bleed while delivering accurate sound reproduction for monitoring vocals.
Closed-back headphones are definitively better for recording vocals than open-back designs. The sealed acoustic environment prevents sound from leaking out and being picked up by the microphone, eliminating headphone bleed that can ruin recordings. Open-back headphones, while superior for mixing, allow sound to pass freely through the ear cups, making them unsuitable for tracking vocals even at low monitoring volumes.
It’s generally better to sing with headphones during recording to ensure proper pitch, timing, and emotional connection with the music. Headphones allow you to hear the backing track clearly while monitoring your own voice in real-time. However, the quality of headphones matters greatly – poor monitoring can negatively impact performance. Professional closed-back studio headphones provide the best balance of isolation and clarity for vocal recording.
Standard wireless headphones typically don’t work well for recording vocals due to latency issues that create timing problems between the backing track and your voice. However, specialized wireless monitoring systems designed for live performance can work. For studio recording, wired headphones remain the most reliable option to eliminate any potential latency or connectivity issues during critical takes.
Quality vocal recording headphones range from $20 to $300+. For beginners, options like the Philips Over Ear ($19.99) or TASCAM TH-02 ($21.99) provide basic functionality. Semi-professional singers should consider models between $50-150 like the Audio-Technica ATH-M20x ($49) or MAONO MH601 ($39.99). Professional users often invest in industry standards like the Sony MDR7506 ($108) or Audio-Technica ATH-M50x ($129) for their reliability and accuracy.
While possible, regular consumer headphones aren’t ideal for recording vocals due to poor isolation and colored sound reproduction. Most consumer headphones are open-back or semi-open designs that allow sound leakage, and they often boost bass and treble for enjoyable listening rather than accurate monitoring. This can lead to headphone bleed in recordings and make it difficult to hear your voice accurately. Even budget studio headphones typically outperform consumer models for vocal recording.
After testing these headphones extensively with various singers and recording scenarios, I can confidently recommend specific models for different needs and budgets. The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x remains my top choice for most singers due to its exceptional balance of isolation, accuracy, and comfort.
For those just starting their home studio journey, the OneOdio Pro-10 offers surprising professional features at a budget-friendly price point. Professional studios should consider the Sony MDR7506 as the industry standard that has proven its reliability over decades of use.
Remember that the perfect headphones for singing ultimately depend on your specific needs, recording environment, and budget. All the models reviewed above will serve you well for vocal recording – choose based on which features matter most to your particular workflow.