Top 10 Best DJ Headphones in 2018 - Ultimate guide
The best DJ headphones in the market today are not only reserved for those who call themselves professional DJ’s. In fact, the top DJ headphones tend to be preferred by more and more audiophiles, and regular users who are looking for an exceptional audio experience.
DJ headphones are usually a bit more expensive than conventional headphones, but there are also a number of these that are affordable for the average user, as well as those who aren’t really making a living out of music but would still want to have a top-notch listening experience.
What you should know about the best DJ headphones
Before getting to the list of top DJ headphones, here are the characteristics and qualities that one should look for when in the search for the ideal pair of DJ headphones.
Incredible Sound Quality Over Anything Else
First and foremost, a good pair of DJ headphones should have superior sound quality. This characteristic goes above and beyond any other feature that one should look for in this type of product. DJ’s listen and play music for a living and in order to bring out the best music for others to listen to, they should be able to hear the best sound on their ears as well. The only way to do that is through a pair of great DJ headphones.
While there are DJ headphones that are heavy on the bass, it is good to note that this doesn’t necessarily mean the pair is ideal for everyone. There are DJ’s that prefer headphones with powerful bass but there are some who’d rather choose a pair that can effectively deliver balanced sound. It’s all a matter of preference but it ultimately comes down to superior sound quality.
Noise Isolation: Open-Back vs. Closed-Back Headphones
The ability to isolate noise is highly important to consider a pair of the best DJ headphones an ideal one. Most DJ’s play in loud environments where the crowd is noisy and even screaming and the speakers are on full blast. It is essential for the DJ headphones to have a very good noise-cancelling feature and because of this reason, making a choice between open-back and closed-back headphones comes quite easy. Simply explained, open-back headphones may have the ability to produce great sound quality but it is not as effective in preventing sound distortion and cancelling outside noise as closed-back headphones.
Comfort is King
One of the most important features a pair of DJ headphones should have is how comfortable it can be. Some DJ’s are on the deck for only a few minutes while there are others who are on board for hours on end. For that reason, you can’t have a pair of headphones that are too tight or too loose or one without good cushions and will make your head and ears hurt if worn for a long time. In addition, it should also be lightweight for the same reason that you wouldn’t want something that’s too heavy on the head for way too long.
Durability to Last Through Use and Abuse
It is understandable that the job of most DJ’s requires them to be on the road and so many places in such little time. DJ’s use headphones for hours on end and these are prone to mishandling, falling on the floor, getting spilled on by drinks and being exposed to a lot of smoke and dirt. Durability is an essential factor to consider because if a pair of DJ headphones isn’t made with high quality materials, expect it to give up a lot sooner than expected which is a waste of money.
Minor Factors to Consider: Price and Brand
The pricing and the make and model of a pair of DJ headphones are also important factors to consider; however, not as important as the characteristics listed above. Of course, everyone wants to get something that’s affordable or at least priced competitively. However, for professional DJ’s or those in the business of making music, they already realize the fact that a pair of great DJ headphones is an investment and it is not a cheap investment.
The brand is also a good consideration because one would prefer something that’s already tried and tested, as well as trusted by many other DJ’s. This is the reason why some DJ’s or music enthusiasts prefer brands and models that are being endorsed by more popular DJ’s. Again, these are important factors to consider, but it is good to note that above anything else, the sound quality and comfort a pair of DJ headphones can offer is more important than how much it costs and who makes it or endorses it.
Now that the characteristics and features have already been covered, we will now be taking a closer look at the best DJ headphones in the market today. With all the above factors considered, these are the ones that made the cut and will most likely be a great choice if you’re currently looking for a great pair.
The top 10 Best DJ Headphones in 2018 - Complete Chart
| Picture | Name | Price | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Picture | Name | Price | Rating |
 |
1. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones | $$$ | 4.7 |
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2. V-MODA Crossfade LP Over-the-Ear Headphones | $$$ | 4.5 |
 |
3. AKG K 240 MK II Stereo Studio Headphones | $$$ | 4.5 |
 |
4. Sennheiser HD 8 DJ Headphones | $$$ | 4.4 |
 |
5. Panasonic RP-DH1250-S Technics Pro DJ Headphone | $$$ | 4.4 |
 |
6. Sony MDRV55 Red Extra Bass & DJ Headphones MDR-V55 MDR-V55/BR | $$ | 4.4 |
 |
7. Pioneer HDJ-1500-S Professional DJ Headphones | $$ | 4.4 |
 |
8. Gemini DJX-05 Over-Ear Professional DJ Headphones | $$ | 3.9 |
 |
9. Behringer HPX2000 Headphones High-Definition DJ Headphones | $$ | 4.0 |
 |
10. Sennheiser HD 205-II Studio Grade DJ Headphones | $$ | 3.9 |
1. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones easily claims the top spot on this list because it covers all the characteristics needed to make a pair considered one of the best DJ headphones in the market today. First off, we must mention that Audio-Technica is indeed a respected brand yet they keep their prices competitive. You can even get it bundled with accessories such as a case, amp or a mini speaker for just a few dollars above that price.
A critically acclaimed pair of professional headphones, these aren’t just made for DJ’s but are highly recommended by many music professionals, audiophiles and audio engineers as well. In fact, customers and many other review websites give this an almost perfect rating. Probably the most popular model in Audio-Technica’s M-series line, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x has been in the market for quite a while now and has been improved by the manufacturers since its first release.
Audio performance is top-notch and with its proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers that are made with rare earth magnets with wire voice coils that are made of copper-clad aluminum, you know for sure that this isn’t just any ordinary headset. Deep and accurate bass gives it such a powerful punch and frequency range is extended for exceptional clarity. Audio-Technica also paid much attention to comfort as this has been built with professional-grade durable ear pads and a headband, 90° swiveling earcups and a detachable cable for easy portability as well.
Its noise isolation feature is very impressive as well and it manages to be that good because of the circumaural design of the headphones that fits perfectly around the ears. Most definitely, if you’re looking for a pair of DJ headphones that will give you all the features you need and the value of your money, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones is the best choice.
Latest Customer Reviews and Prices of Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
2. V-MODA Crossfade LP Over-the-Ear Headphones
With thousands of outstanding reviews from DJs, audio professionals and audiophiles the V-Moda Crossfade LP is undoubtedly one of the best headphones for DJs. The V-MODA Crossfade LP Over-the-Ear Headphones sells at only a little above 100 dollars and it managed to move its way up to be one of the most in-demand DJ headphones in the market today. Available in Gunmetal Black with a very attractive design, this pair of headphones is more than just a beauty. It is actually a very powerful pair that delivers the superior sound quality a DJ would need plus the comfort one would appreciate if they were to wear this for hours.
It has the ability to give such a deep and vibrant bass, high-end clarity and organic mid-range sound through its 50mm dual-diaphragm drivers. Inner and outer rings made with master-crafter materials that are usually found in more expensive pairs gives the V-MODA Crossfade LP Over-the-Ear Headphones the ability to separate the bass from the mids and highs for a more balanced and clear sound. Thanks to its analog noise isolation feature, a DJ can be rest assured that he will stay in-focus on the music even when playing in super loud environments such as clubs and open arenas.
With superior sound quality now established on the V-MODA Crossfade LP Over-the-Ear Headphones, it is time to proceed to the impressive durability this pair of DJ headphones has to offer. It is constructed with a durable steel frame, detachable Kevlar-reinforced cables that prevent tangles and a flexible Steelflex headband that fits perfectly on the head for utmost comfort. Being flexible also adds to the durability as it won’t get squished inside your bag when in transit. In fact, Steelflex can be bent over 10 times flat and the headband still won’t break. Of course, it also comes with a hard exoskeleton carry case for easy portability and the package also includes a remote and mic cable that you can use with compatible devices.
Design, price, sound quality, comfort and durability all considered, the V-MODA Crossfade LP Over-the-Ear Headphones truly is a remarkable pair that you should try out.
Latest Customer Reviews and Prices of V-MODA Crossfade LP Over-the-Ear Headphones
3. AKG K 240 MK II Stereo Studio Headphones
It is not even a surprise that the AKG K 240 MK II Stereo Studio Headphones is part of this best DJ headphones list because it is considered as a top model by many audiophiles and music professionals for years now. In fact, it has been in the market for over two decades and with constant improvements from the manufacturers, one can still enjoy the superior sound quality and the comfort of this pair of headphones – only better than the first batches that were manufactured.
Reviews coming from online retailers as well as professional audio critics and engineers show that the AKG K 240 MK II Stereo Studio Headphones is more than just a pair of headphones that are kept inside the studio. Despite being a semi-open pair, it is still the headphones of choice by many DJ’s because it can still decently block noise out when they’re playing and that semi-open technology works to give good airy highs and a more solid bass. It works with a patented Varimotion 30mm XXL transducer that makes for greater dynamic range and a more accurate signal transfer.
When it comes to comfort, the AKG K 240 MK II Stereo Studio Headphones doesn’t fall short as well. It has a self-adjusting headband to give you that best fit without having to manually adjust all the time – whether the user has a small or large head. The over-ear design makes it ideal for those who are intending to use this pair of headphones for hours on end.
With sound quality, comfort and price of just under 110 dollars all considered, the AKG K 240 MK II Stereo Studio Headphones truly is a bang for the buck pair that one shouldn’t pass out on. As a choice for many professionals across the globe, this only goes to show that this pair of DJ headphones deserves to be part of this list.
Latest Customer Reviews and Prices of AKG K 240 MK II Stereo Studio Headphones
4. Sennheiser HD 8 DJ Headphones
Sennheiser never failed to give audiophiles a great listening experience and the Sennheiser HD 8 DJ Headphones is a proof of that. Having received almost perfect reviews from music professionals, this pair of beauties definitely wouldn’t disappoint. In fact, for many of those who already placed their money on these headphones, they call it the “best DJ headphones they ever owned.” It practically has all the features you need from great sound quality, performance, durability, comfort and design.
Now the Sennheiser HD 8 DJ Headphones aren’t exactly considered cheap with a price tag considering it only comes with the unit itself and a premium protective case. Thankfully, Sennheiser included a two-year warranty just in case you would need it. These over-ear headphones with a closed-back design is able to offer maximum comfort while giving that much needed noise-isolation feature through its elliptical and circumaural design. Many important parts of this pair of headphones are made from durable metal which doesn’t only assure of a firm and super strong yet lightweight built but remarkable audio performance as well.
Sound quality is never sacrificed by Sennheiser audio products, the Sennheiser HD 8 DJ Headphones included. The usual audio quality you get from the best Sennheiser products are combined with high SPL capability of up to 115db are built in to these headphones. It is also compatible to most DJ equipment because of its 95-ohm impedance.
Despite being on the pricier side, you know for sure that the Sennheiser HD 8 DJ Headphones goes way beyond your money’s worth not only because of its more than impressive sound quality and attractive design but also because of its durability that will allow you to use it for many years to come.
Latest Customer Reviews and Prices of Sennheiser HD 8 DJ Headphones
5. Panasonic RP-DH1250-S Technics Pro DJ Headphone
This pair of headphones is made especially for professional DJ’s and through the years, Panasonic’s Technics line has managed to gain their own fans and followers who have consistently praised the products they offer. The Panasonic RP-DH1250-S Technics Pro DJ Headphone isn’t anything less than awesome. It truly deserves its spot on this list and the many praises, high ratings and great customer feedbacks it has received. A classic beauty that doesn’t complicate the design and the features, one will surely have a great time using this pair.
The Panasonic RP-DH1250-S Technics Pro DJ Headphone doesn’t fall short on any criteria that a professional DJ is looking for from a pair of headphones. It is built with the iconic Technics design that a lot of people have fallen in love with through the years. The stereo plug is plated with 24K gold, it comes in a foldable design for easy portability plus a travel pouch that keeps it protected while in transit. The package also comes with a coiled DJ cord, a mobile controller cord, a detachable remote mic and controller cord which are compatible with most devices including Apple products such as iPads, iPods and iPhones so you can even use it when taking calls.
Noise isolation is impressive and its swivel mechanism and reversible housing allows single-side monitoring which most DJ’s would require on the job. Most importantly, its sound quality isn’t less than superior. In fact, it can offer professional sound quality with its 50mm drivers. According to professionals and customers who have already tried this pair, it may not be too heavy on the bass like other pairs but it produces just the right amount for it. This makes way for a more balanced and clear sound that’s best for listening to any kind of music.
Latest Customer Reviews and Prices of Panasonic RP-DH1250-S Technics Pro DJ Headphone
6. Sony MDRV55 Red Extra Bass & DJ Headphones MDR-V55 MDR-V55/BR
When you’re still starting out as a DJ and you don’t have plenty of cash to invest on a pair of headphones but you’d still like one with good enough sound and build quality, your go to pair is the Sony MDRV55 Red Extra Bass & DJ Headphones MDR-V55 MDR-V55/BR. Now this isn’t only made for beginners or amateur DJ’s because it can offer more than just decent sound quality. Many audiophiles and music enthusiasts opt to get this pair simply because it is quite affordable. Yes, it is quite a bargain considering all the features it offers.
First of all, Sony is a trusted brand and it has been one for decades and for as long as most of us can even remember. Sound quality is not a question at all with the Sony MDRV55 Red Extra Bass & DJ Headphones MDR-V55 MDR-V55/BR as it delivers clear and balanced audio, clear mid-range and rich bass thanks to the neodymium magnets built in to it. Its balanced sound is the result of the 40mm closed type driver units that are built to the headphones.Noise isolation is pretty decent.Sound-wise, Sony didn’t fail on this one.
It doesn’t fall short on the aesthetics department either as the Sony MDRV55 Red Extra Bass & DJ Headphones MDR-V55 MDR-V55/BR is one attractive pair that is comparable to the ones offered by other popular brands of today. Easy portability, flexibility and comfort are taken into consideration as well with its swivel folding and slim design that comes with reversible ear cups. While the Sony MDRV55 Red Extra Bass & DJ Headphones MDR-V55 MDR-V55/BR might not be the first choice of many music professionals, it sure is a good deal for those who are looking for a budget pair of DJ headphones.
Latest Customer Reviews and Prices of Sony MDRV55 Red Extra Bass & DJ Headphones MDR-V55 MDR-V55/BR
7. Pioneer HDJ-1500-S Professional DJ Headphones
Pioneer, as we all know by now, has made its way to the top of brands when it comes to DJ headphones. In fact, in many places all over the world, there are top DJ’s who are not only paid endorsers but would also vouch the greatness of a Pioneer pair. The Pioneer HDJ-1500-S Professional DJ Headphones available in Deep Silver is one of the top models that Pioneer has to offer. Through time, Pioneer has improved the quality and features of this model as an answer to the requests and demands of the consumers and they sure did a great job.
The Pioneer HDJ-1500-S Professional DJ Headphones features increased frequencies and bass response and this particular design does well in reducing background noise. Through its innovative sound isolation chamber, low and mid frequencies are balanced for a clearer and more stable sound. Customers who are currently using this pair have shared that the best feature of this model is its sound quality which is comparable to other headphones that come with more expensive prices.
Comfort and durability are also offered by the Pioneer HDJ-1500-S Professional DJ Headphones. The ear cups and the headband are both cushioned and ergonomically designed to fit most head and ear sizes comfortably which make these headphones ideal for those who intend to use it for many hours at a time. The ear pieces can also swivel to up to 45° and can flip by 180° for added ease of use. Build quality is decent and its foldable design makes it easily portable.
More than just a model that comes from a popular brand, the Pioneer HDJ-1500-S Professional DJ Headphones deserves all the attention it gets because it is packed with the performance and features a professional DJ is looking for. For its price, it sure is a steal.
Latest Customer Reviews and Prices of Pioneer HDJ-1500-S Professional DJ Headphones
8. Gemini DJX-05 Over-Ear Professional DJ Headphones
Another pair of budget DJ headphones that made our list is the Gemini DJX-05 Over-Ear Professional DJ Headphones. Now these are super affordable yet its price has nothing to do with the great features it brings. While these are probably not the pair of choice of some professionals, it still deserves the spot on this list because it managed to receive great feedback from DJ’s, audiophiles and music enthusiasts and the reasons behind that are quite simple – it has such an attractive price tag, it looks and feels great and it produces decent sound quality.
First of all, sound quality is quite good on the Gemini DJX-05 Over-Ear Professional DJ Headphones. It has large 50mm high-output drivers that allow you to hear clear and stable sound with deep bass which is essential for DJ’s. While bass isn’t as heavy as other headphone models and it could use a bit more volume, these are things that a portable amplifier can easily solve.
It comes with a gold-plated 1/8-inch connector which helps in getting a better signal and a screw-on adaptor measuring at 1/4-inch. It features a removable coiled spring 13.1-foot cable which is long enough to allow you to move around your area while using the headphones. These headphones are built with durable material so you won’t have to handle it like a fragile baby when working. Most importantly, it comes in a foldable design for easy portability.
The Gemini DJX-05 Over-Ear Professional DJ Headphones are very comfortable too. Padded headband and cushioned ear cups along with its durable yet lightweight built make it so easy to use even for hours on end. While using this pair of headphones, you won’t even realize that you got it at such a bargain price because it is very comparable to high-end and more expensive models!
Latest Customer Reviews and Prices of Gemini DJX-05 Over-Ear Professional DJ Headphones
9. Behringer HPX2000 Headphones High-Definition DJ Headphones
If you think the budget DJ headphones listed before this were already great bargains, you’d be surprised to know that a Behringer is giving even more bang for the buck on this great pair of headphones. The Behringer HPX2000 Headphones High-Definition DJ Headphones are rated from a range or 0 to 100, 100 being the highest, this would get 101. While it is packed with great features that certainly won’t disappoint and you are in fact getting way beyond your money’s worth, it is still not right to compare these to pairs that would sell at hundreds of dollars – though it is still definitely comparable to other models at slightly higher prices.
With that being said, the Behringer HPX2000 Headphones High-Definition DJ Headphones is indeed a great pair of DJ headphones and this is highly recommended to beginners or amateur DJ’s and music enthusiasts who are looking for a good pair to enjoy their music. Manufactured by the German brand Behringer which is known to be one of the most trusted brands when it comes to audio equipment, you can’t expect anything less than superior sound quality from these headphones. With its ultra-high dynamic range, transparent highs and deep bass, one will definitely be pleased with the pleasurable listening experience these headphones can offer.
Despite its low price, high quality build is not sacrificed. Its noise-cancelling feature is quite decent. The Behringer HPX2000 Headphones High-Definition DJ Headphones is built with superior materials and its headband comes in an ultra-rugged design to assure durability. Other components of the headphones are built with rugged materials so that it can withstand wear and tear. Furthermore, it doesn’t lack much needed comfort with its cushioned ear cups and headband plus a lightweight design so you can use it for hours with ease. With great feedback from satisfied customers, it is highly doubtful you won’t enjoy this pair of headphones.
Latest Customer Reviews and Prices of Behringer HPX2000 Headphones High-Definition DJ Headphones
10. Sennheiser HD 205-II Studio Grade DJ Headphones
Last but definitely not the least on this list of best DJ headphones is another Sennheiser. It has already been established that Sennheiser is a trustworthy brand and a testament to that is the Sennheiser HD 205-II Studio Grade DJ Headphones. When Sennheiser says it’s HD, it is actually high definition and nothing else so yes, you can expect superior sound quality that’s best for DJ use and for music professionals in the studio as well. Priced at under 50 dollars, this is defitely going way beyond your money’s worth.
While the Sennheiser HD 205-II Studio Grade DJ Headphones is great enough to give you such a pleasurable listening experience and an easy time if you’re working with it as a DJ or a professional, it is good to note that is powerful and offers superior performance. It isn’t comparable to headphones that would usually cost 200 dollars or more but it competes well with those on the $100 or less range. What’s good about it though is that despite being a budget pair of headphones, it does quite well in isolation of noise which is perfect for DJ’s who always work in super loud environments.
The build quality of the Sennheiser HD 205-II Studio Grade DJ Headphones is very impressive too. The rugged construction and the sturdy material used on these headphones make it ideal for those who are always on the go, and yes, that includes DJ’s. It comes with a travel pouch too that helps protect the headphones when in transit.
Comfort is also an important feature that the Sennheiser HD 205-II Studio Grade DJ Headphones can offer. It has easy to clean and replace ear pads, padded ear cups that are rotatable so you can use it for single ear listening and the headband is cushioned too. Durable yet lightweight, you can enjoy hours of listening and working with the best DJ headphones without any issues at all.
