What Are Studio Headphones?
Updated Nov 13, 2026 · By 
Jonah Mercer · Editorial policy
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Studio headphones are wired over-ear headphones built for recording, mixing and critical listening, where hearing the mix as it is matters most. They come in closed-back and open-back designs, and the choice depends on whether the mic must stay isolated or the mix needs an open soundstage. Check the impedance and the cable before buying.
Closed-back or open-back
Closed-back headphones keep sound in and outside noise out, so they suit vocal tracking and instrument recording where the mic must not pick up the headphones. The DT 770 Pro and the ATH-M50x are closed-back, and the DT 770 Pro lists minimal sound leakage for vocal tracking. Open-back headphones let sound pass through the cups by design, so others nearby can hear them, and the DT 990 Pro X is open-back for mixing and critical listening.
Match the impedance
Impedance is listed in ohms, and the headphones here list 80 ohm, 38 ohm and 48 ohm. The DT 770 Pro at 80 ohm is listed for universal studio use, while the listing also names 32 ohm for mobile gear and 250 ohm for high-powered setups. The DT 990 Pro X at 48 ohm needs no headphone amp, and the ATH-M50x lists 38 ohm. Check what the interface or device drives before choosing.
Cables and connectors
The headphones here are wired with a 3.5 mm jack, and the DT 770 Pro and the DT 990 Pro X include a 1/4-inch adapter. The DT 770 Pro has a 3 m straight cable, the DT 990 Pro X a detachable 3 m mini-XLR cable, and the ATH-M50x a detachable cable with coiled and straight cables in the box. A detachable cable lets you swap a worn cable without replacing the headphones.
Fit, pads and upkeep
Over-ear cups sit around the ears, and the DT 770 Pro lists black velour ear pads while the DT 990 Pro X lists soft velour ear pads. The ATH-M50x has 90 degree swiveling earcups for one-ear monitoring, and its earpads and headband are listed as professional grade. The DT 770 Pro is fully serviceable, so pads, headbands and drivers can be replaced. Wipe the pads with a soft dry cloth and follow the maker's manual for care.
What you need
beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro Studio Headphones
A closed-back 80 ohm studio headphone with black velour ear pads, a 3 m straight cable and a 1/4-inch adapter for recording and mixing.
- Impedance: 80 ohm
- Design: Closed Back
- 2-year warranty stated
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Closed-Back Monitor Headphones
A closed-back 38 ohm monitor headphone with 45 mm drivers, a detachable cable, 90 degree swiveling earcups and a bundle with a stand and case.
- Detachable cable
- Impedance: 38 ohm
- Design: Closed-Back
- 2-year warranty stated
beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro X
An open-back 48 ohm studio headphone with a STELLAR.45 driver, a detachable 3 m cable and velour pads, needing no headphone amp.
- 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
Do studio headphones need an amp?
It depends on the model. The DT 990 Pro X at 48 ohm needs no headphone amp, and the DT 770 Pro at 80 ohm is listed for universal studio use. Check what the interface or device drives before choosing.
Can I use studio headphones for tracking vocals?
Yes, with closed-back models. The DT 770 Pro lists minimal sound leakage for vocal tracking, and the ATH-M50x is closed-back with sound isolation. Open-back models let sound out by design, so they suit mixing instead.
Are the cables detachable?
The ATH-M50x and the DT 990 Pro X have detachable cables. The DT 770 Pro lists a 3 m straight cable. Each is wired with a 3.5 mm jack.
Ranked studio headphones lists
More how-to guides
Product details come from each Amazon listing and can change. Check the listing before you buy.