Studio vs Regular Headphones: What's Different?
Updated Nov 13, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Buying through the Amazon links on this page costs you nothing extra. Full disclosure
Studio headphones are built for recording, mixing and monitoring, while regular headphones are made for everyday listening. A studio pair aims to show the mix as it is, so you can hear what needs work. The 3 studio pairs here are wired, over-ear models with 2-year warranties, and each one serves a different studio job.
What studio headphones are for
Studio headphones are made for work on a mix: recording, mixing and monitoring. The DT 770 Pro lists a balanced frequency response for mixing, mastering and critical studio work. The DT 990 Pro X lists an open-back reference sound for mixing, editing and critical listening. The ATH-M50x is a studio monitor headphone with a detachable cable. Regular headphones are made for everyday listening instead.
Closed back and open back
Closed-back headphones keep sound in and keep sound out, so the mic hears less of the headphones. The DT 770 Pro is closed back, and its closed-back build keeps sound leakage low for vocal tracking and instrument recording. The ATH-M50x is closed back too, and its circumaural design gives sound isolation in loud places.
Impedance, cables and plugs
Impedance is the figure that decides how much power the headphones need from the source. The DT 770 Pro lists 80 ohm, the ATH-M50x lists 38 ohm, and the DT 990 Pro X lists 48 ohm. The DT 990 Pro X needs no amp and runs at full volume from a laptop, interface, phone or console. The DT 770 Pro has a 3m straight cable with a 3.5mm plug and a 1/4-inch adapter, while the ATH-M50x and the DT 990 Pro X have detachable cables.
Fit, pads and care
All 3 pairs here are over-ear, and each weighs 0.6 lb. The DT 770 Pro has black velour ear pads, and its pads, headband and drivers can be replaced. The ATH-M50x has earcups that swivel 90 degrees for one-ear monitoring. The DT 990 Pro X has soft velour ear pads. Wipe the pads and the headband with a soft dry cloth to clear dust.
What you need
beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Studio Headphones
A closed-back, over-ear studio headphone at 80 ohm with a balanced frequency response, velour pads and a 3m cable.
- Impedance: 80 ohm
- Design: Closed Back
- 2-year warranty stated
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Closed-Back Monitor Headphones
A closed-back studio monitor headphone at 38 ohm with 45mm drivers, a detachable cable and swiveling earcups.
- Detachable cable
- Impedance: 38 ohm
- Design: Closed-Back
- 2-year warranty stated
beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro X
An open-back studio headphone at 48 ohm with a detachable 3m cable, velour pads and a STELLAR.45 driver.
- Detachable cable
- Impedance: 48 ohm
- Design: Open-Back
- 2-year warranty stated
These come from our ranked list Best Mixing Headphones, which compares them spec by spec.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use studio headphones for everyday listening?
Yes. Studio headphones play music like any wired pair, and all 3 pairs here use a 3.5mm plug. They aim to show the mix as it is, which suits mixing and monitoring more than everyday listening.
Do I need an amp for studio headphones?
It depends on the pair. The DT 990 Pro X needs no amp and runs at full volume from a laptop, interface, phone or console. Check the impedance each pair lists and the source you will plug it into.
What is the difference between closed and open back?
Closed-back pairs keep sound in and out, so the DT 770 Pro and the ATH-M50x suit tracking and loud places. Open-back pairs let sound through, so the DT 990 Pro X suits mixing where no mic is live.
Ranked studio headphones lists
More how-to guides
Product details come from each Amazon listing and can change. Check the listing before you buy.