As with your microphone, editing software, and other podcasting equipment, finding a high-quality pair of headphones that meets your needs is crucial when recording a podcast. Based on factors like headphone features, audio quality, and budget, these are the best headphone options for podcasting!
- Best Overall: Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
- Best for Beginners: Audio-Technica ATH-M30x
- Best for Value: Sony MDR-7506
AKG K240 MKII
- Price: $185.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Semi-open
- Frequency: 15-25,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
AKG K240 MKII headphones are a highly-rated option for podcasting headphones because of their long-wear design and wide dynamic range. Many podcasters appreciate the comfortable padded ear cups and self-adjusting headband, which provides the best fit. This pair of over-ear headphones also feature a mini XLR connector and come with a 10-foot straight cable and a 16-foot coiled cable, making it easy to connect to AKG microphones and other podcasting equipment.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable design
- Comfortable ear padding, with both velvet and leatherette ear pads included
- Balanced sound profile
Cons
- Semi-open enclosure may allow external sound bleed
- Non-foldable design
- Somewhat flat bass response
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x
- Price: $69.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 15-20,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
If you’re a beginner podcaster or simply looking for a highly affordable pair of monitor headphones that still offers excellent value, Audio Technica ATH-M30x are a great option. These over-ear headphones are lightweight and provide podcasters with high-quality sound, allowing you to pick up on nuances in your audio while editing.
According to Pat Safford, Hurrdat Media’s Podcast Services Director,
“The sound quality of the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x is amazing for the price point! These headphones demonstrate that you don’t have to spend a fortune to find an option that offers great audio.”
Pros
- Effectively blocks out external noise
- Foldable design allows for easy portability
- Accurate sound reproduction
Cons
- Ear pads offer minimal ventilation and may cause ear fatigue
- Cable is lengthy and can become tangled if not wrapped properly
- Soundstage is more limited when compared with higher-end options
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Price: $149.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 15-28,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
Another popular choice for podcasters is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. Slightly more expensive than the M30x, these monitor headphones offer all the benefits of the earlier model, while also providing an exceptionally strong bass response, delivering maximum clarity. With soft-cushioned headbands and ear pads, this headset also keeps you comfortable for long recording or editing sessions.
Pros
- Collapsible design makes for easy transport
- Wider soundstage with a well-balanced sound profile
- Comes with three detachable cables for more versatility
Cons
- Outer layer of the vinyl padding may flake off over time
- Fit may not be as snug as some users prefer
- May not provide sufficient isolation for podcasting in noisy environments
Audio-Technica BPHS1
- Price: $219.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 20-20,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: Yes
Known for “on-air news and sports broadcasting, announcing, and interviews,” the Audio-Technica BPHS1 provides podcasters with closed-back headphones that help block out background noise. This pair of podcasting headphones also comes with a boom-mounted microphone that helps pick up speech with maximum frequency. The Audio-Technica BPHS1’s exceptional sound quality makes it a great choice for podcast formats that feature multiple hosts and voices, such as roundtable or conversation podcasts.
Pros
- Excellent sound isolation
- Boom-mounted microphone offers clear vocal reproduction
- Microphone can swivel to the right or left side for additional convenience
Cons
- Quality of ear pads can deteriorate over time
- Ear pads may be too small for some users, leading to some discomfort
- Cable gives feedback when bumped or jostled
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
- Price: $169.99
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 5-35,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is a classic pair of closed-back, relatively affordable headphones. Their circumaural ear cups effectively block outside noise and are comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Plus, thanks to their broad sound frequency range and high impedance, Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro headphones offer precise audio levels and a professional sound, making them one of the best headphones for podcasting.
Pros
- Durable option with easy-to-replace parts
- Plush headband, soft ear pads, and lightweight design for extended wear
- High impedance for more control over audio levels
Cons
- May require an amplifier when used with portable devices
- Bulky and non-foldable design limits portability
- Cable is not detachable
Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro
- Price: $649.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 5-40,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
For podcasters with a larger budget who want to splurge on top-of-the-line headphones, Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro are a luxurious option worth the extra cash. These headphones use tesla technology to offer distortion-free sound, resulting in highly accurate and precise audio while recording or editing. This is a great long-term investment for its premium build quality, replaceable parts, and comfortable design. Plus, these podcasting headphones come with two pairs of ear pads—one velour, one leatherette—to suit your preference on a more open or closed sound.
Pros
- Easy-to-replace parts
- Sturdy carrying case included
- Deep, cushioned ear cups help prevent ear fatigue
Cons
- Most expensive option on our list
- Overall build is a bit bulky and heavy
- May require an amplifier when used with portable devices
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
- Price: $429.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: Unknown
- Wireless: Yes
- Built-in Mic: Yes
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are a popular choice for podcasters due to their impressive noise cancellation capabilities, sound quality, and comfortable fit. Bose is known for its active noise cancellation (ANC) technology that works to effectively block out ambient noise so you can experience clearer audio. Although Bose doesn’t publish sound frequency specifications for any of their products, the Ultra headphones do utilize spatial audio technology that applies filters to simulate the distance and direction of sound.
Pros
- CustomTune feature adjusts sound and saves your preferences
- Bluetooth connectivity for freedom of movement and no tangled wires
- Comfortable design best during long recording or editing sessions
Cons
- Relatively high price
- Connectivity can be spotty
- Fairly weak battery life (lasts up to 24 hours at the most)
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
- Price: $99.95
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 8-25,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro headphones are a solid choice for podcasters who prioritize durability and noise isolation, offering excellent performance at an affordable price. These podcast headphones are known for their exceptional build, accurate sound reproduction, and relatively balanced sound profile that is suitable for audio monitoring. The headset also works well with various devices without requiring an amplifier.
Pros
- Wide frequency for accurate and detailed sound quality
- Soft ear pads for better comfort during extended wear
- Durable design
Cons
- Cable is coiled and heavy
- Cable is not detachable
- Limited soundstage and bass response
Sennheiser HD 400S
- Price: $69.95
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 18-20,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: Yes
The Sennheiser HD 400S headphones are great for podcasting because they offer a balance of sound quality, comfort, and dependability. Not only does the closed-back design provide a great listening experience by preventing external noise from leaking through, but these podcast headphones are lightweight and foldable, making them convenient for podcasters on the go. They’re also a highly affordable headphones option.
Pros
- Durable yet lightweight design
- Well-rounded audio and sound experience
- Low price for high-quality noise isolation compared to others on the market
Cons
- Soundstage may feel limited compared to more expensive headphones
- Headband padding is thin
- Headphone jack is short and may not be compatible with a standard cable
Sennheiser HMD 300 Pro-XQ-2
- Price: $299.95
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 60-25,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: Yes
The Sennheiser HMD 300 Pro-XQ-2 is a professional-grade, closed-back headset for podcasting, specifically designed for broadcasting and studio applications. They offer exceptional audio quality, wear, and durability for extended use in demanding environments, as well as a dynamic boom mic for recording audio. These podcast headphones use ActiveGard technology to help protect your hearing from sudden loud sounds, and they have a modular cable system compatible with various cable options for added flexibility.
Pros
- Accurate audio quality and clear sound reproduction
- Effectively blocks out external noise
- Pressure-sensitive headband and comfortable ear cushions
Cons
- Due to the overall build quality and features, some users may find these headphones heavy
- Relatively high price
- Connection cable is not included and must be purchased separately
Shure SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Headphones
- Price: $499.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 5-25,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
The Shure SRH1540 headphones are a premium headphone perfect for podcasting professionals who want accuracy and precision in their sound reproduction. In addition to delivering exceptional audio performance, they’re also designed for comfort during long recording sessions thanks to their soft, thick ear pads and a lightweight frame. Due to their warm, neutral sound profile, we recommend these headphones if you’re frequently mixing and mastering.
Pros
- Wide soundstage delivers accurate, detailed, and balanced audio
- High impedance gives more control over audio levels
- Two detachable cables included
Cons
- Ear cups do not swivel
- Likely outside a beginner podcaster’s budget
- May require an amplifier when used with portable devices
Sony MDR-7506
- Price: $99.99
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 10-20,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
The Sony MDR-7506 headset is perfect for podcasters because of its reliable performance, professional-grade sound quality, and affordable price. These podcast headphones deliver a flat frequency response for accurate sound reproduction, and their foldable, lightweight design makes them convenient for podcasters who do not have a single location where they record and edit. The headphones also have versatile connectivity since they’re equipped with both 1/4″ and 1/8″ connectors.
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Designed to withstand professional use with durable build
- Accurate sound reproduction
Cons
- Limited noise isolation
- High-frequency detail is lacking
- Coiled cable is somewhat heavy and not detachable
How We Chose These Top Podcast Headphones
To compile a list of the best podcasting headphones, we conducted rigorous research to ensure our recommendations are reliable and valuable options for podcasters of various levels. First, we combed hundreds of user ratings, reviews, and competitive posts, considering each using the following factors:
- Price: Looked for both affordable and high-end options
- Type: Focused on over-ear headphones (rather than in-ear or on-ear) for better sound isolation and audio quality
- Enclosure: Focused on closed-back headphones (rather than open-back) for better sound isolation and minimization of audio bleed
- Frequency Range: Looked for a range of options to meet various needs
- Connection: Focused mostly on wired headphones to avoid common wireless issues (audio lag, short battery life, lower audio quality); considered some wireless options for freedom of movement
- Cable Features: Considered if cable was included with the purchase, if it was detachable, the length (preferring shorter to not be jostled), material, durability, and sensitivity if moved
- Presence of a Built-in Mic: Looked at options for both to meet various podcasting needs
We then narrowed our list down by analyzing the quality of each option, considering:
- Sound quality
- Build quality and durability
- Additional features
Finally, we consulted Pat Safford, Hurrdat Media’s Podcast Services Director. With years of experience in the podcasting industry, both working with podcasters and hosting podcasts himself, Safford provided valuable insight on which podcast headphones his team uses and endorses.
Taking into account each of the above considerations, we ultimately landed on this list of the 12 best headphones for podcasters, suitable for a variety of budgets, experience levels, and specific needs.
Need help recording your podcast? Hurrdat Media can help with podcast production, advertising, equipment and studio rentals, and more. Check out our podcast services to join the Hurrdat Media Network today!
As with your microphone, editing software, and other podcasting equipment, finding a high-quality pair of headphones that meets your needs is crucial when recording a podcast. Based on factors like headphone features, audio quality, and budget, these are the best headphone options for podcasting!
- Best Overall: Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
- Best for Beginners: Audio-Technica ATH-M30x
- Best for Value: Sony MDR-7506
AKG K240 MKII
- Price: $185.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Semi-open
- Frequency: 15-25,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
AKG K240 MKII headphones are a highly-rated option for podcasting headphones because of their long-wear design and wide dynamic range. Many podcasters appreciate the comfortable padded ear cups and self-adjusting headband, which provides the best fit. This pair of over-ear headphones also feature a mini XLR connector and come with a 10-foot straight cable and a 16-foot coiled cable, making it easy to connect to AKG microphones and other podcasting equipment.
Pros
- Lightweight and durable design
- Comfortable ear padding, with both velvet and leatherette ear pads included
- Balanced sound profile
Cons
- Semi-open enclosure may allow external sound bleed
- Non-foldable design
- Somewhat flat bass response
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x
- Price: $69.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 15-20,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
If you’re a beginner podcaster or simply looking for a highly affordable pair of monitor headphones that still offers excellent value, Audio Technica ATH-M30x are a great option. These over-ear headphones are lightweight and provide podcasters with high-quality sound, allowing you to pick up on nuances in your audio while editing.
According to Pat Safford, Hurrdat Media’s Podcast Services Director,
“The sound quality of the Audio-Technica ATH-M30x is amazing for the price point! These headphones demonstrate that you don’t have to spend a fortune to find an option that offers great audio.”
Pros
- Effectively blocks out external noise
- Foldable design allows for easy portability
- Accurate sound reproduction
Cons
- Ear pads offer minimal ventilation and may cause ear fatigue
- Cable is lengthy and can become tangled if not wrapped properly
- Soundstage is more limited when compared with higher-end options
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Price: $149.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 15-28,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
Another popular choice for podcasters is the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x. Slightly more expensive than the M30x, these monitor headphones offer all the benefits of the earlier model, while also providing an exceptionally strong bass response, delivering maximum clarity. With soft-cushioned headbands and ear pads, this headset also keeps you comfortable for long recording or editing sessions.
Pros
- Collapsible design makes for easy transport
- Wider soundstage with a well-balanced sound profile
- Comes with three detachable cables for more versatility
Cons
- Outer layer of the vinyl padding may flake off over time
- Fit may not be as snug as some users prefer
- May not provide sufficient isolation for podcasting in noisy environments
Audio-Technica BPHS1
- Price: $219.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 20-20,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: Yes
Known for “on-air news and sports broadcasting, announcing, and interviews,” the Audio-Technica BPHS1 provides podcasters with closed-back headphones that help block out background noise. This pair of podcasting headphones also comes with a boom-mounted microphone that helps pick up speech with maximum frequency. The Audio-Technica BPHS1’s exceptional sound quality makes it a great choice for podcast formats that feature multiple hosts and voices, such as roundtable or conversation podcasts.
Pros
- Excellent sound isolation
- Boom-mounted microphone offers clear vocal reproduction
- Microphone can swivel to the right or left side for additional convenience
Cons
- Quality of ear pads can deteriorate over time
- Ear pads may be too small for some users, leading to some discomfort
- Cable gives feedback when bumped or jostled
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
- Price: $169.99
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 5-35,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is a classic pair of closed-back, relatively affordable headphones. Their circumaural ear cups effectively block outside noise and are comfortable to wear for long periods of time. Plus, thanks to their broad sound frequency range and high impedance, Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro headphones offer precise audio levels and a professional sound, making them one of the best headphones for podcasting.
Pros
- Durable option with easy-to-replace parts
- Plush headband, soft ear pads, and lightweight design for extended wear
- High impedance for more control over audio levels
Cons
- May require an amplifier when used with portable devices
- Bulky and non-foldable design limits portability
- Cable is not detachable
Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro
- Price: $649.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 5-40,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
For podcasters with a larger budget who want to splurge on top-of-the-line headphones, Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro are a luxurious option worth the extra cash. These headphones use tesla technology to offer distortion-free sound, resulting in highly accurate and precise audio while recording or editing. This is a great long-term investment for its premium build quality, replaceable parts, and comfortable design. Plus, these podcasting headphones come with two pairs of ear pads—one velour, one leatherette—to suit your preference on a more open or closed sound.
Pros
- Easy-to-replace parts
- Sturdy carrying case included
- Deep, cushioned ear cups help prevent ear fatigue
Cons
- Most expensive option on our list
- Overall build is a bit bulky and heavy
- May require an amplifier when used with portable devices
Bose QuietComfort Ultra
- Price: $429.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: Unknown
- Wireless: Yes
- Built-in Mic: Yes
The Bose QuietComfort Ultra headphones are a popular choice for podcasters due to their impressive noise cancellation capabilities, sound quality, and comfortable fit. Bose is known for its active noise cancellation (ANC) technology that works to effectively block out ambient noise so you can experience clearer audio. Although Bose doesn’t publish sound frequency specifications for any of their products, the Ultra headphones do utilize spatial audio technology that applies filters to simulate the distance and direction of sound.
Pros
- CustomTune feature adjusts sound and saves your preferences
- Bluetooth connectivity for freedom of movement and no tangled wires
- Comfortable design best during long recording or editing sessions
Cons
- Relatively high price
- Connectivity can be spotty
- Fairly weak battery life (lasts up to 24 hours at the most)
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
- Price: $99.95
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 8-25,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro headphones are a solid choice for podcasters who prioritize durability and noise isolation, offering excellent performance at an affordable price. These podcast headphones are known for their exceptional build, accurate sound reproduction, and relatively balanced sound profile that is suitable for audio monitoring. The headset also works well with various devices without requiring an amplifier.
Pros
- Wide frequency for accurate and detailed sound quality
- Soft ear pads for better comfort during extended wear
- Durable design
Cons
- Cable is coiled and heavy
- Cable is not detachable
- Limited soundstage and bass response
Sennheiser HD 400S
- Price: $69.95
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 18-20,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: Yes
The Sennheiser HD 400S headphones are great for podcasting because they offer a balance of sound quality, comfort, and dependability. Not only does the closed-back design provide a great listening experience by preventing external noise from leaking through, but these podcast headphones are lightweight and foldable, making them convenient for podcasters on the go. They’re also a highly affordable headphones option.
Pros
- Durable yet lightweight design
- Well-rounded audio and sound experience
- Low price for high-quality noise isolation compared to others on the market
Cons
- Soundstage may feel limited compared to more expensive headphones
- Headband padding is thin
- Headphone jack is short and may not be compatible with a standard cable
Sennheiser HMD 300 Pro-XQ-2
- Price: $299.95
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 60-25,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: Yes
The Sennheiser HMD 300 Pro-XQ-2 is a professional-grade, closed-back headset for podcasting, specifically designed for broadcasting and studio applications. They offer exceptional audio quality, wear, and durability for extended use in demanding environments, as well as a dynamic boom mic for recording audio. These podcast headphones use ActiveGard technology to help protect your hearing from sudden loud sounds, and they have a modular cable system compatible with various cable options for added flexibility.
Pros
- Accurate audio quality and clear sound reproduction
- Effectively blocks out external noise
- Pressure-sensitive headband and comfortable ear cushions
Cons
- Due to the overall build quality and features, some users may find these headphones heavy
- Relatively high price
- Connection cable is not included and must be purchased separately
Shure SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Headphones
- Price: $499.00
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 5-25,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
The Shure SRH1540 headphones are a premium headphone perfect for podcasting professionals who want accuracy and precision in their sound reproduction. In addition to delivering exceptional audio performance, they’re also designed for comfort during long recording sessions thanks to their soft, thick ear pads and a lightweight frame. Due to their warm, neutral sound profile, we recommend these headphones if you’re frequently mixing and mastering.
Pros
- Wide soundstage delivers accurate, detailed, and balanced audio
- High impedance gives more control over audio levels
- Two detachable cables included
Cons
- Ear cups do not swivel
- Likely outside a beginner podcaster’s budget
- May require an amplifier when used with portable devices
Sony MDR-7506
- Price: $99.99
- Type: Over-ear
- Enclosure: Closed-back
- Frequency: 10-20,000 Hz
- Wireless: No
- Built-in Mic: No
The Sony MDR-7506 headset is perfect for podcasters because of its reliable performance, professional-grade sound quality, and affordable price. These podcast headphones deliver a flat frequency response for accurate sound reproduction, and their foldable, lightweight design makes them convenient for podcasters who do not have a single location where they record and edit. The headphones also have versatile connectivity since they’re equipped with both 1/4″ and 1/8″ connectors.
Pros
- Excellent value for the price
- Designed to withstand professional use with durable build
- Accurate sound reproduction
Cons
- Limited noise isolation
- High-frequency detail is lacking
- Coiled cable is somewhat heavy and not detachable
How We Chose These Top Podcast Headphones
To compile a list of the best podcasting headphones, we conducted rigorous research to ensure our recommendations are reliable and valuable options for podcasters of various levels. First, we combed hundreds of user ratings, reviews, and competitive posts, considering each using the following factors:
- Price: Looked for both affordable and high-end options
- Type: Focused on over-ear headphones (rather than in-ear or on-ear) for better sound isolation and audio quality
- Enclosure: Focused on closed-back headphones (rather than open-back) for better sound isolation and minimization of audio bleed
- Frequency Range: Looked for a range of options to meet various needs
- Connection: Focused mostly on wired headphones to avoid common wireless issues (audio lag, short battery life, lower audio quality); considered some wireless options for freedom of movement
- Cable Features: Considered if cable was included with the purchase, if it was detachable, the length (preferring shorter to not be jostled), material, durability, and sensitivity if moved
- Presence of a Built-in Mic: Looked at options for both to meet various podcasting needs
We then narrowed our list down by analyzing the quality of each option, considering:
- Sound quality
- Build quality and durability
- Additional features
Finally, we consulted Pat Safford, Hurrdat Media’s Podcast Services Director. With years of experience in the podcasting industry, both working with podcasters and hosting podcasts himself, Safford provided valuable insight on which podcast headphones his team uses and endorses.
Taking into account each of the above considerations, we ultimately landed on this list of the 12 best headphones for podcasters, suitable for a variety of budgets, experience levels, and specific needs.
Need help recording your podcast? Hurrdat Media can help with podcast production, advertising, equipment and studio rentals, and more. Check out our podcast services to join the Hurrdat Media Network today!
This post was co-authored by Hurrdat Content Strategists, Katie Elfering and Megan Schneider.