As an audiophile, you know that finding the perfect pair of headphones is essential. With so many options on the market, from basic earbuds to high-end over-ear models, determining what’s right for you can feel overwhelming. But don’t worry. This guide will walk you through everything you need to consider to find the pair that suit your needs.
Types of headphones
The first decision you’ll need to make when choosing headphones is which type is right for you. There are three main options:
1. Over-ear
Over-ear headphones, also known as circumaural headphones, completely surround your ears. They tend to be quite comfortable and block out ambient noise. However, they can get warm during long listening sessions and may be too bulky for some. Popular over-ear brands are Sony, Bose, and Beats.
2. On-ear
On-ear, or supra-aural, headphones rest directly on your ears. They are more compact than over-ear ones, but may still muffle some outside sounds. However, on-ear ones can become uncomfortable over extended periods. Well-known on-ear headphone makers include Skullcandy, Urbanears, and Grado.
3. In-ear
In-ear headphones, or earbuds, fit directly in your ear canals. They are very portable and discreet, but typically don’t block noise like the larger options. You’ll want to find earbuds with different-sized ear tips to ensure a snug and secure fit. Popular in-ear headphone brands are Apple, Jaybird, and Klipsch.
Price range
When it comes to headphones, you have a range of options at different price points. The ones you choose depend on your needs and budget.
Under US$50
You can still get decent headphones under US$50 if you’re on a tight budget. Look for wired on-ear models from brands like Skullcandy, JBL, or Sony. At this price, you’ll get basic but solid sound quality and a comfortable fit for casual listening.
US$50 to US$200
You’ll find wired and wireless options with improved sound and build quality in this mid-range. Popular wireless choices include:
- Sony WH-CH710N: Noise-canceling, long battery life, punchy bass. Around US$100.
- JBL Live 650BTNC: Impressive noise cancellation, 20+ hour battery, durable. Around US$150.
- Bose SoundLink II: Rich, balanced sound, 15+ hour battery, comfortable. Around US$150.
For wired headphones, consider audiophile-approved brands like Sennheiser, Audio-Technica, or Grado. Their open-back models provide an expansive soundstage perfect for critical listening.
US$200 and Up
At US$200+, you can get premium headphones with studio-grade sound and high-end features. Wireless options like the Sony WH-1000XM4 and Bowers & Wilkins PX7 provide exceptional noise cancellation, sound quality, and comfort. High-end wired ones from brands like Focal, Audeze, and HIFIMAN are designed for critical listening.
Features of headphones
When choosing headphones, the features and specifications can make a big difference in sound quality, comfort, and overall listening experience. The two most common types are wired and wireless.
Wired ones transmit audio signals through a cable, typically providing better sound quality. Wireless or Bluetooth ones offer freedom of movement without cables, but may have lower audio quality or latency.
Audio quality
The audio quality of headphones refers to how accurately they reproduce sound. Several factors determine a headphone’s audio quality, and that includes:
Drivers
The drivers are the components that produce the sound waves. Larger drivers, like 40 mm or more, typically provide better bass response and a wider frequency range. However, smaller drivers can still produce great sound quality depending on the build and materials.
Frequency range
Frequency range refers to the span of frequencies that the headphones can accurately reproduce, measured in hertz (Hz). A wider range, like 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, means they can handle lower bass tones and higher treble tones. Narrower ranges may lack bass or sound tinny.
Impedance
Impedance, measured in ohms (Ω), determines how much power is needed to drive the headphones. Lower impedance ones, like 16 to 32 Ω, require less power and often work with mobile devices. Higher impedance ones, like 250 to 600 Ω, require a headphone amplifier to reach their full potential.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity refers to how loud the headphones will sound at a given power level. More sensitive ones, measured in decibels of sound pressure level per milliwatt (dB/mW), will sound louder with less power. Less sensitive onesrequire more power to achieve the same volume.
Find the perfect headphones for you
Whether you want affordable earbuds for your daily commute, wireless over-ears for gaming, or high-end audiophile cans, the options are out there. Do some research on different brands and models, check reviews from experts and everyday users, and find the combination of price, comfort, and sound quality that works for you. The audio world is yours to explore!
