Top 5 Best Headphones for Podcasting – Complete Guide 2021
Written by: Paul Ridger
You’re on the lookout for the best podcasting headphones? We got you covered! We tested several headphones and here are our top picks for 2021. Whether you’re just starting out or you are a seasoned podcaster, I’m pretty sure you already know that awesome podcasting headphones are essential to your toolkit, along with a kickass mic.
Thing is, there are just so many options out there and all of them claim that they are the best in town. Makes it difficult to choose one, right?
One-line review: The ATH-50X provides incredible sound clarity at a reasonable price-point.
[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B00HVLUR86″ apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HVLUR86?tag=techheadphones0202-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Critically acclaimed sonic performance praised by top audio engineers and pro audio reviewers~~~Proprietary 45 millimeter large aperture drivers with rare earth magnets and copper clad aluminum wire voice coils~~~Exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range with deep accurate bass response~~~Circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments~~~90 degree swiveling earcups for easy one ear monitoring and professional grade earpad and headband material delivers more durability and comfort” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”aligncenter” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”1000″]Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones[/amalinkspro]
Taking top spot on in our quest for the best headphones for podcasting is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X. These pairs are perfect if you are looking for a no-nonsense Bluetooth headphones that get the job done and allows you to go in wired mode as well. The ATH-M50X deliver a pure and accurate audio experience that will easily take your podcasting game to the next level.
These pairs are made of professional grade material and are built to last. Audio-Technica has been offering a number of powerful headphones over the years and it seems like the ATH-M50X may well be one of their finest crafts yet. Released in 2018, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X has been widely acclaimed by the sound production community as being the gold-standard for podcasting.
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What we liked
Powerful and accurate audio performance.
Superb battery life.
aptX support.
Foldable design, easy to carry around.
What we didn’t like
Battery slightly heats up during longer sessions.
[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B00HVLUR86″ apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HVLUR86?tag=techheadphones0202-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”6″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Critically acclaimed sonic performance praised by top audio engineers and pro audio reviewers.” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”aligncenter” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”600″]Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones[/amalinkspro]
[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B001B1QENY” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001B1QENY?tag=techheadphones0202-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Professional Studio Headphones. Semi-open, diffuse-field studio headphone. Analytical sound.~~~Comfortable fit due to rugged, adjustable, soft padded headband construction.~~~Single-sided cable. Velour, circum-aural (around the ear) ear pads. Supplied in a nylon carrying case.~~~Headphone design (operating principle) Semi-open. Headphone impedance 250 ohms. ~~~Cable & plug Coiled connecting cable with mini-jack plug (3.5 mm) & ¼“ adapter (6.35 mm). Net weight without packaging 295″ btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”aligncenter” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”1000″]beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Over-Ear Studio Headphone[/amalinkspro]
The Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro is one of our favorites on this list. With its stylish open-back design, the DT 880 Pro boasts an incredible audio performance that may surprise many. Released back in 2008, these headphones have stood the test of time and oftens comes up in audiophiles’ convos.
We also loved the comfort the velour earpads provide during longer podcasting sessions. This pair can last for some years, due to its sturdy construction. Note that paired with an amplifier turns the DT 880 Pro into a treble beast. But again, if you are sensible to treble peaks, go for another pair of headphones on this list.
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What we liked
Superb all round audio performance.
Possibly has one of the highest and cleanest treble peaks.
Extremely easy to setup and use.
All the headphone’s parts are replaceable.
What we didn’t like
Stay away if you are sensible to high trebles.
Needs an amplifier for optimal performance.
Not the cheapest option.
[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B001B1QENY” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B001B1QENY?tag=techheadphones0202-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”6″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Professional Studio Headphones. Semi-open, diffuse-field studio headphone. Analytical sound.” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”aligncenter” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”600″]beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Over-Ear Studio Headphone[/amalinkspro]
One-line review: Grab the MDR-7506 if you want a reliable pair of headphones that will last for years and are priced below $100.
[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B000AJIF4E” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000AJIF4E?tag=techheadphones0202-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Neodymium magnets and 40 millimeter drivers for powerful, detailed sound~~~Closed ear design provides comfort and outstanding reduction of external noises~~~9.8 foot cord ends in gold plated plug and it is not detachable; 1/4 inch adapter included~~~Folds up for storage or travel in provided soft case~~~Frequency Response: 10 Hertz to 20 kilohertz~~~” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”aligncenter” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”1000″]Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone[/amalinkspro]
The Sony MDR-7506 is easily the best value for money podcast headphones currently on the market. These pairs are close to legendary status in the world of headphones; released back in 1991, the Sony MDR-7506 has been the go-to headphones for many professional podcasters for over two decades now. With so many praises received over the years, they are very likely to be available for another decade!
These pairs at priced below $100, and I must say, the sound quality they deliver is outstanding, especially considering its price point. The Sony MDR-7506 is simply a great option for anyone on a limited budget, whether you’re just starting out or you’re an experienced podcaster. Also, the sound isolation on these are very effective and ensures you are never distracted from outside noise while podcasting.
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What we liked
Excellent value for money.
Solid audio performance.
Durable and secure cables.
What we didn’t like
The 9.8 ft long cable is bulky.
Bass could be better.
[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B000AJIF4E” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000AJIF4E?tag=techheadphones0202-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”6″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Neodymium magnets and 40 millimeter drivers for powerful, detailed sound” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”aligncenter” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”600″]Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone[/amalinkspro]
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What to look for in Podcast Headphones?
Keep in mind that how you hear yourself through your headphones gives you an idea of the listening experience for your podcast audience.
Frequency Response Ideally, you want your podcasting headphones to have a flat frequency response. This ensures your audio playback is super accurate without filtering additional audio effects, such as an increase in bass response.
Comfort Did you know that the average podcast session lasts 43 minutes? This makes a comfortable pair of over-ear headphones a must! Go for large, soft padded cushions for your next pair of headphones.
Sound Isolation You don’t want to hear the outside noise from your environment when you’re podcasting. The focus should be on the actual voice and audio quality. Headphones with good sound isolation are essential since it blocks distracting low-level sounds.
Price Let’s face it, not all of us can afford to spend a couple of Benjamins on a pair of podcast headphones. Still, try to avoid super low-priced options, as most of these won’t last you long, and often feel uncomfortable for long sessions. You can expect a very decent pair at around $50-$150.
Wired or Wireless If you move around a lot during your podcast sessions, get a pair of wireless headphones. But keep in mind you’ll have to keep an eye on your battery level in you go this route. On the other hand, corded headphones take away the battery concerns and are more fit for you if spend most of your podcasting time in a studio area.
Paul Ridger is an experienced audio engineer who has worked with top audio brands in USA and Japan for over a decade. His expertise include professional studio and DAW-based recording. In his free-time, Paul loves reviewing the latest audio gear and playing COD Warzone.
