The 9 Best DJ Headphones of 2022
DJ Headphones – Buying Guide, Opinions and Analysis
In the world of music, it is not only important to have a good audio player, but also excellent headphones, especially if you are a DJ. However, there are many types of DJ headphones, so here we will recommend several models. Take the Pioneer HDJ-X5, for example, which have speaker cushions and are circumaural in design, so they cover the entire ear for greater comfort and listening immersion. The Sennheiser HD280PRO also stand out, since they are closed and offer a special attenuation for external noise of 32 dB, which allows them to be used in noisy places.
The 9 Best DJ Headphones – Opinions 2022
Because there are many options on the Internet, we have prepared this guide for you with the best DJ headphones of 2022. In it, you will find products of different prices, depending on the brand, design, and sound quality.
Pioneer DJ Headphones
1. Pioneer HDJ-X5 Circumaural Headband Silver Headphones
The Pioneer HDJ-X5 are one of the best DJ headphones, since they have an ergonomic design that can be folded when you need to carry them from one place to another more easily and, most importantly, because they emit a good sound, thanks to its 4 cm driver.
They are even comfortable to use during long working hours, in case you dedicate yourself completely to being a DJ. This is thanks to the fact that they have padded pads that cover the ears and they also have a soft material on the headband.
If you want Pioneer DJ headphones, it would not be bad to take this model into account, because it offers a good frequency range, from 5 to 30,000 Hz. That is, they are headphones that may not disappoint you when listening to the deep bass of electronic music..
Pioneer could be the best DJ headphone brand, as it stands out a lot when it comes to audio products. Check out the qualities of one of its most important headphones.
Pros
Sound: The Pioneer HDJ-X5 headphones emit a balanced sound, with good bass and treble, so you can listen to music very well.
Connector: The connector that comes from the factory is the classic 3.5 mm, although the package includes a 6.3 mm adapter to expand its connectivity.
Folding: Something that could impress many users is the way to fold them, as they are very small and practical to move comfortably.
Cons
Cable: They do not have a very long cable, since it is only 1.2 meters long, but with an extension cable you can solve this inconvenience.
2. Pioneer HDJ-700-K Circumaural headphone
If you are wondering which are the best DJ headphones, perhaps you will find the answer in this model, since it offers a frequency range from 5 to 28000 Hz, that is, a warm sound and at the same time with pleasant bass to listen to various types of music., pop, jazz, flamenco, classical, rock, dubstep, etc.
In addition, the headphones have padded cushions for greater ergonomics when listening to your music mixes. They even have a circumaural design and have a headband adjustable to the size of your head.
On the other hand, the pads and drivers area can be folded forwards or backwards, depending on what you feel most comfortable with. Likewise, we mentioned that these are closed headphones, so the sound does not come out, so no one will hear the music you are mixing.
If you are looking for the best DJ headphones of the moment, review the main aspects of this product, which may meet your needs.
Pros
Sound: The sound quality of these speakers is quite high, despite the fact that their price is not that high, in addition, they cover a frequency range from 5 to 28,000 Hz.
Cups: The cups are large, with a closed circumaural design, in addition to having dynamic speakers inside that emit good bass.
Comfort: Its pads have soft padding, so you can create and mix music for long hours without getting too tired.
Cons
Hot: In summer they can be a bit hot, since they are completely closed.
Sennheiser DJ Headphones
3. Sennheiser HD280PRO Closed-Back Headphones
You have to know how to take advantage of all the sounds of music when you are creating new things on your DJ equipment. In this sense, Sennheiser DJ headphones could be your right allies.
These headphones are headband and closed cups, so they are useful not only when making music, but also when enjoying movies on your mobile devices with high-quality audio. You have all these possibilities thanks to the fact that its connector is a 3.5 mm jack, which even enters computers or wireless controls for the PS4 console.
In addition to this, its design is very comfortable to move or store, since the cups can be folded in seconds, thus taking up very little space in backpacks, suitcases, handbags, etc. Similarly, it should be noted that the sound is linear and they have a frequency range of 8 to 25,000 Hz, to be able to use them with almost any type of audio.
Perhaps you are still wondering which DJ headphones to buy, therefore, we present you the main qualities of a good Sennheiser product, it may be the one you are looking for.
Pros
Multifunctional: These headphones have a 3.5 mm connector, so you can use them on any compatible equipment, phones, tablets, MP3, etc.
Foldable: Their design is foldable, so you can make them more compact and easily store them in almost any corner of your home or studio.
Accuracy: Sound reproduction on these headphones is precise and linear, making it easy for the DJ to edit and mix music.
Cons
Pressure: Some people may find these headphones to be tight, as their headband offers some pressure.
4. Sennheiser HD 25-1-II Basic Edition Closed-Back Headphones
These are headband-type Sennheiser DJ headphones with smaller cups than other brand products. This makes them very light and allows them to be used not only in the DJ world, but also in entertainment, to listen to movies or video games with high sound quality.
In addition to this, they have a great resistance to external noise, so they are widely used in large events for monitoring. Even its rotating cup makes it possible for you to listen to the music in only one ear and at the same time hear the sound from the outside, in this way, it is verified that the mix is going well.
On the other hand, we mention that they have a frequency range of 16 to 22000 Hz, being quite useful when listening to music of all kinds, with deep bass and clarity.
If you want compact and lightweight DJ headphones, these could be the one for you, thanks to their technical details, which we present to you below.
Pros
Range: With a dynamic range of 16 to 22,000 Hz, they offer high-definition sound that will help you connect them to professional DJ mixing equipment.
Supraaural: They are supraaural headphones, so that they cover a large part of the auditory pavilion, being also versatile in domestic HiFi audio.
Impedance: Their nominal impedance is 70 ohms, therefore they are compatible with many devices, phones, tablets, computers, DJ mixers, etc.
Cons
Case: A transport case is missing to be able to take them anywhere with comfort and safety.
Professional DJ Headphones
5. Audio Technica ATH-M50x – DJ Headphones
When you need professional DJ headphones, don’t hesitate to look for products of this level, as the Audio Technica ATH-M50x is specially designed for experienced and demanding musicians. These headphones have a stylish circumaural design with fairly sturdy leather-like ear pads, while also providing a size-adjustable and padded headband, so you can wear them for a long time.
As for its sound, it probably meets the expectations of many DJs, since it emits a deep and precise bass that is very useful for electronic music or professional mixes. This is thanks to the fact that it has 4.5 cm transducers, that is, large drivers that generate a broader and more enveloping sound for your ears.
In another order of ideas, we inform you that the cups rotate up to 90 degrees, to be able to hear the mixes from only one side if you are performing sound tests on a stage.
When buying professional DJ headphones, it is important to review various options, for example, this Audio Technica model could meet your requirements.
Pros
Drivers: The drivers of these circumaural headphones have a diameter of 4.5 cm, so they are large and emit deep bass.
Isolation: They have good noise isolation, since the cups are closed and have padded pads.
Practicality: The cups of these headphones are foldable, so they take up less space when storing them.
Cons
Control: It would be nice if they had control on the cable to raise or lower volume without having to do it from the computer or DJ equipment.
6. Roland RH-5 Closed-Back DJ Headphones
These could be one of the best price-quality headphones, because, although they are one of the cheapest, the sound they offer is clear and dynamic. In addition, they have soft cushions so you can use them for long hours in the recording studio or gaming computer.
They do not have a thick headband like other models, which makes them less hot in summer. Also, the headband is padded for greater comfort on your head.
On the other hand, it should be noted that if you are looking for professional DJ headphones that you can also use for other things such as listening to movies or video games, these could be the ones for you. This is thanks to the fact that they come with a 3.5 mm jack connector and a 1/4-inch adapter, that is, you can connect them to phones, computers, tablets, etc.
Although these are some of the cheapest headphones in the comparison, their qualities could meet your needs, so we will explain some of them below.
Pros
Sound: With a natural and flat sound response you will be able to hear the audios clearly, in addition to being closed they reduce external noise.
Drivers: The drivers or speakers are 4.0 cm, being useful for emitting low frequencies.
Comfort: Due to its padded pads and cup adjustment system, it is possible that they will fit comfortably in your ears.
Cons
Cable: The audio cable cannot be removed or changed for another, but is fixed in this model of headphones. However, the cable is thick, for greater durability.
Sony DJ Headphones
7. Sony MDRV55R Closed-Back Noise Reduction Headphones
These Sony DJ headphones offer 4cm drivers, which means they pump out powerful bass for music of all kinds, including drum and bass, disco, rock, funk or electro house. In addition, they will serve to mix music at parties or events of various kinds.
Also, the drivers have a neodymium magnet, so they offer clear and dynamic sound to enjoy even movies and video games at home.
If you are concerned about background noise, you will not have any problems with these headphones, since they are of the closed type, thus reducing external noise. Another aspect that we can highlight about this product is that it can be folded, to store it or move it very easily.
In the same way, it has padded pads that cushion the pressure on the ears, to be able to listen to audio for long hours without problems.
There are many Sony options on the Internet, but in this case we recommend this model, so pay attention to its main qualities.
Pros
Drivers: It has 4 cm drivers with a neodymium magnet, so the sound is clearer and the bass is powerful.
Closed: Being closed, you will not hear external noise, even if you are in the club mixing songs and surrounded by many people.
Foldable: They can be folded to take to any event with you if you dedicate yourself completely to making electronic music.
Cons
Ear pads: The ear pads have a coating that falls off over time, however this does not affect their sound quality.
DJ Technics Headphones
8. Technics RPDJ1210 Headphones
If you are looking for DJ Technics headphones, you may have to check out this model, since its frequency response is wide, especially for nightclub events. In addition, the design is robust, so it will withstand the demands without any problem.
In addition to this, the cups of these headphones rotate, so you can listen to the L or R side of your mixes independently when necessary.
Even this quality makes them more comfortable to transport, because you simply turn the cups and the product takes up less space. Also, it is important to mention that, unlike other competing models, these headphones include a practical carrying bag.
Also, the connector is gold-plated for durability against corrosion and better signal transfer.
If you are looking for DJ headphones with a 3.5 mm connector, do not forget to check the following features, as it is a product of the successful Technics brand.
Pros
Isolation: These headphones are capable of isolating sound in very noisy environments, so if you are a DJ, you may be satisfied with them.
Bass: With its Extra Bass system, it offers a better response in the bass of electronic music or any other genre.
Design: They have a comfortable design with pads on the cups and padded material on the headband, in addition to being foldable for easy transport.
Cons
Pressure: They may be a bit tight on some users’ heads, but at the same time this helps you move around on stage without them falling off.
Philips DJ Headphones
9. Philips A1PRO/00 Closed Back DJ Headphones
These Philips DJ headphones have been designed by Armin van Buuren, so they are special for this type of musical activity. These are closed supra-aural headphones, to prevent sound from escaping to the outside or external noise from entering.
In this way, they serve very well to play live if you are a DJ, in addition, their pads cushion the pressure on the ears a little, to use them for several hours without any discomfort. Perhaps this is something we owe to Armin, because his experience in the DJ world is no small thing.
Another aspect that makes these headphones stand out is that they have 4 cm drivers with neodymium magnets, so they emit a powerful and clear sound, to listen very well to the tempo of the music and other details when making your mixes.
If these headphones catch your eye, read on, as in the next section we will present the main advantages and disadvantages of the Philips A1PRO/00.
Pros
Drivers: Its drivers are 4 cm and have a neodymium magnet, thus providing higher audio quality.
Power: Its maximum power input is 2500 mW, in addition to its sensitivity is 108 dB. This provides a cleaner, more dynamic and distortion-free sound.
Cups: The cups can rotate up to 90 degrees, so you can hear each side, L and R, separately while mixing.
Cons
Practicality: They cannot be folded to store or move them more comfortably.
Shopping guide
In this guide to buying the best DJ headphones we will talk about the most important aspects that a product of this type should have, so pay attention to them so that your choice is the right one.
Circumaural
When you review a comparison of DJ headphones, do not forget to think about the size of the cups. Generally, the larger the cups, the better the projection of bass sounds. Circumaural DJ headphones feature the largest cups, so the pads fit on the user’s head, not the ears.
In the world of DJ music there are no definitive preferences in this regard, but the decision must be made by yourself, according to your needs and tastes. However, many users prefer circumaural headphones, because they do not exert pressure directly on the ears, but on the head, completely covering the ear.
On the other hand, we mentioned that circumaurals have a disadvantage, and that is that they are usually heavier, because they have larger cups, although this does not happen with all models. In other words, the manufacturing materials, drivers and design of the headphones have a great influence here.
Over-ear
They are not necessarily less powerful than circumaural design headphones, but sometimes their bass is weaker. Supra-aural headphones have smaller cups, they do not completely cover your ears, while being lighter and more comfortable to carry.
Similarly, as the cups are smaller, the sound from outside is more likely to enter your ears, depending on the design of the headphones.
There are brands that thought about this aspect and offer supra-aural headphones with excellent sound isolation. Thus, they are a good choice for many DJs who play in discos, clubs or on large stages, because they weigh less and are smaller to store in bags, backpacks, car trunks, etc.
Perhaps you are already wondering what are the best options for a DJ, if circumaural or supraaural headphones. The answer will depend on your needs and tastes, also on the brand or model you choose. Also, you may be wondering how much a certain model costs, but don’t worry, both over-ear and over-ear headphones have many price options.
You may find cheap or high-priced products; We recommend purchasing the one that best suits the type of activities you do.
closed cups
Although there are also headphones with open cups, these are not highly recommended for DJs, unless you want to hear the outside while mixing your songs live. The most convenient headphones for concerts or DJ presentations are closed cups, as it is better that external noise does not enter while you are playing or playing some mixes. Also, they are useful when composing music at home, without disturbing those who are nearby, since the closed cups prevent the sound they are listening from going outside.
Neodymium magnet and frequency response
Neodymium magnet headphones offer more power in terms of volume, in addition, they allow the frequency range to be better. To mix all kinds of music you need a frequency response of 5 to 30000 Hz or at least a similar range.
The 5 Hz refers to the low frequencies, the 30,000 Hz to the high frequencies, so there is a balance for all kinds of musical genres, jazz, flamenco, pop, disco, drum and bass, dubstep, electro, etc.
detachable cable
If the audio cable that comes with your headphones is detachable, all the better, since that way you can change it for a new one in case it gets damaged or you lose it in a presentation. In this sense, also check if the headphones have a security system so that the jack does not come out if you accidentally step on the cable on stage. However, if you do not get a model of that style that you like, do not worry, since the important thing is to be able to use another cable if an unforeseen problem occurs.
jack type
Most DJ headphones come with a standard plug, either 3.5mm or 1/4-inch. However, the models that have a 3.5 mm jack do not always include the 1/4-inch adapter in the package, so check this aspect in the product characteristics.
Also, we inform you that there are common or gold-plated jacks, the latter are more resistant to corrosion and provide a cleaner sound when connected. However, many Internet sellers do not offer information on this aspect. What you should do is ask about it in the comments, in case you are very interested in gold-plated jacks.
Frequently asked questions
Q1: How to use the DJ headphones?
One of the first things you should do is respect the markings, for example, the left which is represented by the letter L and the right by the R. In this way, you will hear the sounds correctly. Also, if they are circumaural, wear them so that the cushions completely cover your ears. If the headphones are too big for you, adjust the headband so it fits properly on your head. This will be possible thanks to the fact that most headphones have an adjustment system between the headband and their cups.
Q2: Which is better, wired or wireless DJ headphones?
Everything will depend on the use that you are going to give the headphones; There are several models that can be adapted to your needs. The cables can be spiral or standard, both are very comfortable. In addition, they often come up to 3 meters, so if you are going to move around the stage freely, you should choose them with this length or higher.
On the other hand, wireless headphones are not widely used in the DJ world, because they are discharged every so often. In addition to this, sometimes they emit a certain latency, which is detrimental to any type of music when mixing and playing live.
Q3: How to connect DJ headphones?
It’s very easy, simply look for the 1/4 or 3.5 mm input on your DJ controller and insert the male jack connector at the end of your headphone cable there. The problem may occur when the DJ controller’s input port is 1/4 and the headphone’s male jack is 3.5mm. If this is the case for you, buy a 3.5mm to 1/4-inch adapter online. You can also find this adapter from 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm, since it is the same, only with a different unit of measurement.
Q4: What is the best DJ headphone brand?
There is a wide range of options on the market, but if you are a demanding DJ and want a good quality product, we recommend that you buy headphones from the Pioneer brand. This Japanese company was founded in 1938 and has been making successful technology products ever since. Today, the company makes professional DJ equipment and accessories, including closed-cup headphones.
Q5: Are cheap DJ headphones worth it?
If your budget is limited, don’t worry, there are many price options on the Internet. In addition, there are cheap closed or open DJ headphones, even with padded cushions for greater comfort in your presentations. Also, some low-priced ones offer clear and dynamic sound, depending on the make or model.
In this sense, they are worth it, especially to start in the world of DJ music.
Q6: How should DJ headphones fit?
It’s best if they fit fairly snug, because if you’re a DJ, you’re probably going to be moving around a bit on stage in front of your controller, computer, microphone, and other gear. You may even jump on stage with them on stage, so we recommend that you adjust them very well to your head and ears. However, the decision depends on your preferences, because not everyone likes them to be very tight, since they could tire your ears with the first hours of use.
Q7: Which is better, open or closed DJ headphones?
It depends on your preferences or the use you are going to give them. If you want to play on big stages, discos or nightclubs, it is best if they are closed. On the other hand, for compositions or mixes at home or in the studio, open-back headphones may be of great help, since they offer more ventilation and, if someone knocks on the door or your phone rings, you will be able to hear. Unlike the closed ones, which isolate external noise almost completely in most cases, especially if you have the volume turned up.
In summary, both options have their advantages and disadvantages, because the open ones do not offer privacy; people around you and close to you at the time will be able to hear what you are creating or mixing.
