Classical music is not like any other type of music. There are things to consider such as instrumental separation, voice clarity, neutrality, and accurate soundstage before buying the best headphones for classical music, you can always use SoundCloud to mp3 service to load up more songs for your offline usage.
To help you choose the one that fits your budget, comfortable, and best of all, suits your listening preference, here is a top ten list for you.
10 Sennheiser HD 650
The Sennheiser HD 650 is an open-back type of headphone. This creates a clearer soundstage compared to the closed-back models. With a frequency response of -10 dc, you can listen to your opera classics at a balanced, transparent sound.
It’s quite pricey, though, and I am not usually after really expensive brands. Other brands come close to its performance at a fraction of a price. Read on until the top spot to find out what these brands are and what their best features are.
9 Beyerdynamic DT-880
This is an affordable semi-open type of headphones, which is one of the most recommended for classical music listening.
The frequency levels are properly balanced, and there are no annoying distortions or overwhelming bass sound. It also has average neutrality, but limited soundstage. For its class, it can be quite pricey, and it does not come with amplifiers.
But if you are looking for comfort, this headset will give you just that. Because of its semi-closed ear cups, it is not too tight nor too loose. Hence, it perfectly fits most adults’ heads.
8 V-MODA Crossfade LP
This headset has an incredibly broad and immersive soundstage, with a vivid mid-frequency. It produces clear bass but does not overwhelm the music, hence there is a tonal balance.
I commend this product for a unique exoskeleton design that allows for comfort on the head and ears. You can also interchange the metal shields. It boasts of its durable construction with a steel frame.
But because it is one of the most affordable headphones available in the market, it may not have the best quality. After a couple of months’ use, you may notice that the audio cables are close to giving up.
7 Bose QuietComfort 25
The brand claims that these headphones are specially made for Apple devices. It does give justice to its claims considering it provided power and balance.
It can be loud but does not hurt the ears, or you can turn it down, but the sound frequency is still amazingly good.
It has rotating earcups that guarantee comfort and great fit. Regarding price, I would say it is reasonable, but regarding quality, I do not think this is something that lasts for a long time.
6 AKG Pro-Audio K702
This headset offers a spacious and airy sound that allows for the orchestral instruments to shine through. It could be one of the most transparent and neutral sounding headsets available in the market. Not to mention, it is very affordable.
This is also very versatile as you can use it even in the studio recording. The only issue I have with this headset is its durability. Online reviewers are complaining that the other side of the ear went completely silent after a couple of times of usage.
5 Audio Technica ATH-AD900X
I’ll go straight to the point and point out that this is one of the most affordable open-back headsets that are quality made. I love to use it when I am listening to operas and orchestras.
It delivers clear, natural sound and is so relaxing to the ears. It is even vibration proof for added comfort. But I still love the other Audio Technica model, which I am about to reveal. Try and figure out what model it is and in which spot it lands. Come on and continue reading – we’re now halfway through.
4 Sony MDR-1A
Priced at almost $300, this headset is worth the money. I can personally vouch that it provides superb clarity and extreme comfort.
I can listen to my favorite classical music with it all day long without any pain in my ears. It also has a powerful frequency response because of its ergonomic ear pads.
When it comes to sound quality, you can never go wrong. It may produce a powerful bass but is not obtrusive.
3 Audio-Technica ATH-M50 X
This is the other Audio Technica headset I was talking about halfway through this list. It is critically acclaimed for its excellent soundstage and clarity. At less than 200 dollars, this is perhaps one of the most versatile headsets I have ever tried on.
I have used this in one of our recording sessions, so it is also useful for monitoring and recording in a studio.
I would recommend this to fanatics of classical music because it has all the features required for this particular type of genre. It is comfortable, has good sound quality, and produces neutral sound.
2 Sony MDR7506
Currently a bestseller in one of the biggest online shopping sites, the Sony MDR7506 offers a detailed sound with noise reduction technology. It claims to prevent external noises from interfering in your listening pleasure.
I personally like its overall look and comfortable feel. It already has a soft case with it, so it is preferred by traveling musicians and music lovers alike. Plus, it has an adapter for its gold-plated plug. A total money-saver.
1 Sennheiser HD 598
I have been looking for an affordable Sennheiser with excellent quality of sound. As a classical musician, I do not only listen to classical music; I breathe it.
I play in recitals and record, too. And I still continue with my musical study by listening to the more traditional sound.
This below-200-dollars Sennheiser is known for its versatility. I use it for recording, monitoring, and leisure. On ordinary days, I simply use it to pass the time or when I am boarding the train to go to work.
Final Thoughts
I listen to classical music all the time. And I guarantee that no other headset gave me both the price and the quality I have been looking for.
The Sennheiser HD598 has all the characteristics I’ve been looking for in the best headphones for classical music – neutrality, comfort, open-back design, accurate soundstage, instrumental separation, and voice clarity.
The list of best headphones for classical music you have just read contains my personal preferences. Let me know what your personal pick is by commenting below.
