If you’re serious about podcasting, investing in the best podcasting headphones is a must.
Whether you’re using a Yeti microphone or a Shure microphone, having a reliable pair of headphones ensures you monitor your recordings accurately and minimize background noise.
In this guide, we’ll explore the 10 best headphones for podcasting, discuss key features to consider, and help you find the perfect pair to enhance your setup.
Why You Need the Right Headphones for Podcasting
Podcasting requires precision, and the best podcast headphones are essential for delivering high-quality audio. They provide:
Accurate Sound Monitoring: These headphones allow you to hear your voice clearly and adjust your tone in real-time, ensuring your podcast sounds polished and professional.
Noise Isolation: By blocking out external noise, they prevent unwanted sounds from leaking into your microphone, maintaining a clean and distraction-free recording.
Comfort for Long Sessions: Recording can take hours, so lightweight and cushioned headphones reduce strain and make extended sessions more comfortable.
Durability: Built to last, these headphones withstand the wear and tear of frequent use, making them a reliable choice for podcasters who record regularly.
Investing in the right headphones ensures that every episode you produce meets the highest standards of audio quality, keeping your listeners engaged and your content sounding its best.
Types of Headphones for Podcasting
Before diving into our top picks, let’s take a closer look at the key types of headphones for recording and what makes each one unique:
Over-Ear Headphones: These headphones completely enclose the ear, providing excellent isolation from external sounds and making them ideal for recording sessions in noisy environments. They are also known for their comfort during long wear, making them a favorite for extended studio work. Their larger size allows for more accurate sound reproduction, which is great for detailed audio work.
On-Ear Headphones: Sitting directly on the ears rather than enclosing them, these headphones strike a balance between portability and sound quality. While they may not offer the same level of noise isolation as over-ear models, their lightweight design makes them convenient for mobile setups or less intensive recording needs.
In-Ear Monitors (IEMs): Compact and highly portable, IEMs fit snugly in the ear canal and are excellent at blocking out external noise. They are often favored by musicians performing live or professionals in need of lightweight, on-the-go monitoring. Despite their small size, high-quality IEMs can deliver impressive sound clarity and detail.
Open-Back vs. Closed-Back Headphones:
Open-Back: These headphones have a perforated design that lets air (and sound) flow freely through the ear cups. This creates a more natural and open listening experience, making them ideal for mixing and mastering where a true-to-life sound is crucial. However, they lack isolation and are not suitable for recording, as external noise can interfere.
Closed-Back: Designed with sealed ear cups, closed-back headphones block out external noises and prevent sound leakage. This makes them the preferred choice for recording artists and podcasters who need to focus on their audio without distractions. They are also ideal for environments where privacy is essential.
10 Best Headphones for Podcasting
1. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Type: Closed-Back, Over-Ear
- Why It’s Great: Delivers crystal-clear sound with deep bass and accurate frequency response.
- Best For: Podcasters looking for a well-rounded, professional-grade pair.
2. Sony MDR-7506
- Type: Closed-Back, Over-Ear
- Why It’s Great: Industry-standard headphones with clear highs and mids.
- Best For: Podcasters who need an affordable yet reliable option.
3. Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO
- Type: Closed-Back, Over-Ear
- Why It’s Great: Superior noise isolation with a comfortable, durable build.
- Best For: Long recording sessions and professional podcasting setups.
4. Sennheiser HD 650
- Type: Open-Back, Over-Ear
- Why It’s Great: Natural sound reproduction, ideal for post-production.
- Best For: Editors and audio engineers fine-tuning their podcasts.
5. Shure SRH1540
- Type: Closed-Back, Over-Ear
- Why It’s Great: Premium build with a broad frequency range.
- Best For: Podcasters seeking studio-quality monitoring.
6. Bose QuietComfort 35 II
- Type: Closed-Back, Over-Ear, Wireless
- Why It’s Great: Noise cancellation for distraction-free editing.
- Best For: Remote podcasters who need wireless flexibility.
7. AKG K371
- Type: Closed-Back, Over-Ear
- Why It’s Great: Accurate sound profile with a foldable design.
- Best For: On-the-go podcasters needing high-quality sound.
8. Rode NTH-100
- Type: Closed-Back, Over-Ear
- Why It’s Great: Comfortable memory foam ear pads and a rich sound profile.
- Best For: Content creators using a Yeti microphone.
9. Focal Listen Professional
- Type: Closed-Back, Over-Ear
- Why It’s Great: Extended frequency response for high-fidelity monitoring.
- Best For: Professional podcast studios.
10. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
- Type: Closed-Back, Over-Ear
- Why It’s Great: Affordable and excellent for blocking external noise.
- Best For: Budget-conscious podcasters looking for solid performance.
Key Features to Look for in Podcasting Headphones
When choosing the best podcast headphones, it’s important to find a pair that suits both your technical and personal needs. Here’s what to look for:
Sound Quality
A flat frequency response is essential for accurate audio monitoring. This ensures you hear your recordings exactly as they are, without added bass or treble that could distort the sound.
Comfort
Since podcasting sessions can last for hours, lightweight headphones with cushioned ear cups are a must. Comfortable designs help reduce fatigue and let you focus on your content, not your gear.
Durability
Invest in headphones made with high-quality materials, as they’re built to withstand regular use. Look for reinforced cables and sturdy headbands to ensure they last over time, even with heavy handling.
Impedance
For podcasting, low impedance (under 50 ohms) is ideal, especially if you’re using a plug-and-play setup with a Yeti microphone or similar gear. This ensures clear sound without needing additional amplifiers.
Noise Isolation
Good noise isolation is crucial to prevent external sounds from leaking into your recordings. Closed-back headphones are particularly effective in maintaining a clean audio environment, both for you and your audience.
By keeping these features in mind, you’ll be better equipped to find headphones that enhance your recording experience and take your podcast to the next level.
Accessories to Improve Your Podcasting Experience
To get the best performance out of your headphones for podcasting, consider these essential accessories. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your current setup, these tools can make a big difference in the quality and efficiency of your recordings.
Headphone Amplifier
A headphone amplifier ensures clear and accurate sound reproduction, especially when using high-impedance headphones. It provides the power needed for your headphones to deliver consistent audio, making it easier to hear even the smallest details in your recordings or edits.
Audio Interface
An audio interface is a must-have for improving overall sound quality and connecting your headphones with other equipment like a Shure microphone. It transforms your analog audio into digital signals, ensuring professional-grade sound for your podcasts. Many interfaces also come with built-in preamps to enhance your microphone’s performance.
Pop Filter
A pop filter is a simple but effective tool that reduces plosive sounds, such as “P” and “B” sounds, when recording vocals. This helps achieve a cleaner and more professional sound, minimizing the need for post-production edits. It’s especially useful for podcasters focusing on dialogue-heavy content.
Cable Management System
A cable management system keeps your setup organized by preventing tangled cords and clutter. It helps maintain a tidy workspace, reduces the risk of tripping over cables, and ensures your equipment stays in good condition. A neat setup can also contribute to a smoother recording experience, keeping you focused on your content.
Investing in these accessories can enhance not only your sound quality but also your workflow, allowing you to produce better podcasts with ease.
Setting Up Headphones for Guests and Co-Hosts
When recording a podcast with guests or co-hosts, it’s essential to have a good setup that allows everyone to hear themselves and each other clearly. Here are some tips for setting up your headphones for group recordings:
- Use headphones with low impedance to avoid audio issues.
- Have multiple sets of headphones available for each person.
- Use an audio splitter to connect multiple pairs of headphones to one device.
- Consider using in-line volume controls on the headphones for individual adjustments.
With these tips, you can ensure smooth communication and collaboration during your podcast recordings, resulting in a better listening experience for your audience.
Final Thoughts: Finding the Best Podcasting Headphones
The best podcasting headphones should complement your microphone setup, whether you’re using a Yeti microphone for easy plug-and-play recording or a Shure microphone for a professional studio feel.
From budget-friendly options like the Sony MDR-7506 to high-end choices like the Shure SRH1540, there’s a perfect pair of headphones for podcasting for every need.
When selecting headphones podcasting professionals trust, prioritize sound quality, comfort, and durability to ensure a seamless recording experience. Ready to upgrade your setup? Pick from our 10 best headphones for podcasting and take your podcast to the next level!