Best Headphones for EDM Electronic Music [2024 Reviewed]

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All text and image links lead to Amazon unless stated otherwise. All product scores are based on ProRec’s in-house scoring model

Thumbnail	Headphones for EDM Electronic Music	ProRec Score	Price
	Shure SRH1840	9	Check Price on Amazon
	SENNHEISER HD 660 S	8.8	Check Price on Amazon
	beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (250 ohm)	8.3	Check Price on Amazon

Introduction

If you’re producing EDM or Electronic music, and you don’t want to put in a lot of money towards studio monitors or an expensive high end sound treatment, then a solid pair of headphones is a good way to get started with mixing and mastering. Even if you have a good monitoring solution, a pair of cans is an absolute essential for referencing purposes.

When choosing headphones for Rock/Metal, EDM or Electronic music, you want something that isn’t too intense on the ears since you do not want to get fatigued while producing. A flat pair of cans that is priced appropriately, something neutral that sounds honest with an accurate representation is a good place to start.

Headphones give you clarity when you’re getting into the highs and the mids. You also want something that has adequate bass. If you are one to favor a stronger bass response, then it would be a good idea to look into a headphone amp as well.

There are primarily two types of headphones, Open back and Closed back. Open backs have a bit more of a natural feel to them while closed backs give you more resonance and bass (adding a bit more of an emotional punch). They’re both pretty different and have different use cases. The thing with open backs is that they will have some leakage if you’re tracking. However, they’re great for mixing!

Ideally, it would be best to have one of each, but if you are just producing music (not recording instruments), like most EDM guys do, then Open backs are the way to go. The general opinion is that they sound better as well. Closed backs can sound awesome too, but their use case is more directed towards live engineering and tracking. You should also go for wired headphones since wireless cans may impose latency.

You also want to decide on a budget. A good pair of cans will cost you a bit but will also last you longer and give you a better overall production experience. Cheaper headphones may color the sound, have low impedance and won’t be as quiet as their more expensive counterparts. There is no one size fits all, so if you’re on a budget then you may go for the least expensive pair on our list. All of these headphones will give you all you need to produce EDM/Electronic music!

Best Headphones for EDM Electronic Music Reviews

All text and image links lead to Amazon unless stated otherwise. All product scores are based on ProRec’s in-house scoring model

The Shure SRH1840 is a high end pair that features a premium lightweight design. The unit has a durable and solid build consisting of mostly aluminum and stainless steel.

The pair has a soft leather wrapped headband which is very comfortable and holds on to your head without too much clamping force. Additionally, the ear pads are enveloped in velour and have generous cushioning; they are also replaceable which helps extend the pair’s life span.

The SRH1840 houses 40 mm drivers in its ‘over the ear’ open back design. Their impedance is rated at 65 ohms meaning that the pair could benefit from a DAC. Furthermore, the headphones have a wide frequency response ranging from 10 to 30,000 Hz. On the bottom of each of the earcups, you’ll find a proprietary connector which is used to connect the 6.9 foot detachable cable. This cable terminates into a 3.5 mm jack meaning it could be plugged into pretty much any device.

In terms of sound quality, the SRH1840 demonstrated an impressive flat and natural sound signature. On the low end, we found that the unit sounded punchy yet balanced which is rare to see on open back headphones. This made the bass enjoyable without being unrealistic which would ruin our mixes. The mids were great, and came off as soft and detailed. With the pair’s incredible mid range accuracy, vocals and instruments sounded very clear and we didn’t feel like we were missing anything.

Regarding the high end, the pair was smooth and while we felt that it had a slight dip in the high treble, it helped reduce listening fatigue without affecting its accuracy much. Despite their open back design, the SRH1840’s soundstage wasn’t exactly as wide as we expected. However, it sounded natural and we found the extension realistic in all directions. The flat tuning and wide frequency response range expose every little detail and nuance in the music making the pair a good fit for mixing.

The Shure SRH1840 improved in many aspects compared to its predecessor the SRH1440 which more than justifies the slight price bump. In terms design, while both pairs feel solid, the new SRH1840 has a much better metal build. This improves the pair’s durability and makes it feel more premium. The new generation’s design is also more appealing as it lets go of the bulkiness of the previous model for a more slick look.

Frequency response range was another area of improvement. While the older 1440 model had a respectable range of 15 to 27000 Hz, the newer one increased that range to an impressive 10 to 30000 Hz. The wider range was also accompanied by flatter tuning which made the pair sound more accurate and natural. The newer 1840 model also has a higher impedance of 65 ohms (SRH1440 had a 35 ohm impedance rating). While this means that you’ll ideally need a DAC now, the pair will sound better and have less distortion.

While we enjoyed the pair’s premium build and sound quality, there were a few shortcomings. For example, casual use of the unit is a nuisance due to its large frame, non folding design and open back nature. However, being studio headphones first we didn’t expect the pair to join our commute anyways.

Another drawback is the replaceable cable, Shure resorted to their own proprietary connection which locks you to their cables only. Nonetheless, we can overlook that since replacement cables are readily available at most retailers. As for sound quality, the slight dip at the top of the treble ruined the otherwise flat tuning of the pair. However, it helps reduce listening fatigue and doesn’t affect the sound too much.

All in all, the Shure SRH1840 is an excellent pair for EDM. The unit has a flat and natural sound signature. The build quality and replaceable ear pads and cables also ensure that this pair will last you a long time. We can safely recommend this pair for electronic music as it ticks all the boxes.

Shure SRH1840 Benefits

Flat and natural sound signature with plenty of details

Comfortable to use even during long sessions due to its light weight and soft cushioning

Mostly metal solid and durable build quality

Replaceable cables and earpads which add to the pair’s longevity

Shure SRH1840 Drawbacks

Not suitable for casual use as it isn’t very portable

Slight dip at the top end of the treble range that ruins an otherwise flat tuning

Proprietary cable connector which limits you to Shure’s cables

All text and image links lead to Amazon unless stated otherwise. All product scores are based on ProRec’s in-house scoring model

The Sennheiser HD 660S is a mid range pair that’s ideal for EDM production, without breaking the bank. The pair features a metal frame with a well finished plastic exterior. This gives it a rigid feel that inspires confidence in its longevity while maintaining a light weight (0.57 pounds).

The unit has an over the ear open back design with a metallic mesh covering the drivers which give it a sleek look. As for the headband, it is well cushioned and ribbed making it very comfortable as it takes shape around your head. Clamping force was suitable since it was neither loose nor annoyingly tight. The earpads are just as good as they are thick and breathable.

The HD 660S employs large 42mm drivers with an impedance of 150 ohms. This means that you will definitely need a DAC to drive this pair. The unit also has a remarkable frequency response ranging from 9 to 41500 Hz. Regarding connectivity, a 9.8 foot cable connects to the 2 pin ports found on each of the earcups; the cable terminates to a balanced 4mm or an unbalanced 6.3mm plug.

After spending time with the pair, we found that the HD 660S does an excellent job in reproducing sounds. The pair makes full use of its open back design and the output has a very strong live feel. All instruments sounded as close or as far as intended and had great separation between them. The pair also displayed a generally accurate and natural sound signature.

Bass was flat at the mid and top end of the range, however it fell off slightly at the lower frequencies (sub 100 Hz). Nonetheless this wasn’t very noticeable as it only covered a small section of the low end. Mids were perfectly flat throughout, vocals and instruments sounded very clear and we were able to hear details we had never heard before. Treble sounded natural and flat except the little dip at the top end which gave the pair a slightly darker sound. However, the range was still plenty bright and overall enjoyable.

The HD 660S improved in many areas compared to its predecessor (HD 600). While the two pairs have a similar design, the newer generation further increased the already great frequency response range to 9 – 41500 Hz (was rated at 12 – 40500 Hz). This means that the newer pair will be more accurate. The sound profile of the unit was also improved as the HD 660S went for a flatter sound which made the pair more suitable for studio use.

The 660S also solved a major problem with the older generation by reducing the spikes in the high end. This greatly reduced the piercing sound of the HD 600 and eliminated listening fatigue. All these improvements were done while making the pair easier to drive since the impedance was cut in half from the original 300 ohms

Concerning drawbacks, we faced some that we would like to address. The low end of the bass could have been more accurate especially below 100 Hz. However, it was only a small part of an otherwise perfectly tuned low end; and with some calibration on our end we were able to reduce the dip. Another issue is that the headband felt tight. Nonetheless, it never got annoying or painful and it helped prevent the pair from sliding off when moved around. Portability was another downside since the pair is pretty large, has very long cables and doesn’t fold. However, it is an open back pair of studio headphones so we weren’t counting on it being portable anyways.

All things considered, the HD 660S is an amazing pair of headphones that provides a premium experience at a mid range price. The unit demonstrated excellent performance in all our tests and had a great build quality. We recommend investing in HD 660S, it will not disappoint!

Sennheiser HD 660S Benefits

The sound signature is flat, accurate and natural which is perfect for professional use

Very wide frequency response range that ensures you won’t miss out on any details

The unit was comfortable especially due to its soft earpads and headband cushioning

Various connectivity options with the unbalanced 6.3mm and balanced 4mm cables

Sennheiser HD 660S Drawbacks

Bass slightly falls off below 100 Hz

The headband can feel too tight for some users

The pair isn’t portable due to the its large size and long cables

All text and image links lead to Amazon unless stated otherwise. All product scores are based on ProRec’s in-house scoring model

The beyerdynamic DT 990 pro 250 ohm is a classic budget pair of studio headphones that punches above its class. The unit has a predominantly plastic build with a metal band suspending the earcups.

The DT 990 pro has a soft leather headband and velour wrapped ear pads both of which have ample cushioning. This made wearing the pair comfortable despite its heavy weight (0.84 pounds). A 3.2 foot long coiled cable that can extend to a maximum 9.8 feet is built right into the left earcup; the cable terminates to a 3.5mm jack or a ¼ inch plug with the adapter.

The pair features an open back design that houses its large 40mm drivers. As for its impedance, it is rated at 250 ohms; this means that you won’t be using these headphones without an amplifier to drive them. Regarding the pair’s frequency response, it ranges from 5 to 35000 Hz which is on the upper end for studio headphones.

As for audio quality, the DT 990 Pro delivered an excellent neutral and natural sound. The pair was able to reproduce a lot of details in the tracks we tested and was very clear. Bass was very balanced and decently punchy. It remained almost completely flat except a slight dip at the lower end of the range. This was a very minor blemish though and we were able to iron it out with an EQ.

Mid range on this unit was tuned perfectly. Vocals and instruments sounded incredible and very detailed which left us without a single complaint on its execution. Treble was also fairly neutral, however, it had some sharp spikes especially on its upper end. This caused some listening fatigue when we used the pair pre-calibration. Soundstage was another area that was well tuned on the pair as it felt very spacious and provided good separation between sounds.

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro was released as an updated version of the classic DT 990 that was first introduced in 1988. Both pairs have similar design aesthetics. However, we felt that the newer model has sturdier materials that make us believe it can last longer. This was also the case for the cable which feels thicker now making us not worry about it being non removable.

Comfort was another area of improvement in the DT 990 Pro as it now has thicker cushioning and better clamping force. In terms of audio, not much has changed especially since the original was already great. Nonetheless, some minor quality improvements were made that flattened the frequency response curve making the pair sound more natural. This was accompanied by soundstage improvements and an overall more accurate reproduction of sound.

The beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is an amazing pair of studio headphones, however, there are still some issues we’d like to mention. The cable is non removable so in case it breaks, you’ll need to send in the pair to a technician which will be a hassle. However, it is thick and coiled, both of which makes us confident in its longevity and durability under normal usage.

Another issue is that with such a high impedance of 250 ohms, driving this pair without a DAC is not a possibility as it would sound dry. Nonetheless, these are studio headphones so we assume that any possible user will have an amplifier on hand. The plastic build is another area we’d have liked to see improved. A metallic frame would have benefited the pair and ensured that it would last longer. However, it helps cut down costs and it still feels sturdy so we have no reason to believe that it would break on you.

With everything considered, the DT 990 Pro 250 ohm is a great option if you’re in the market for budget studio headphones. The pair features a solid build and excellent audio performance at a fraction of the price of its competitors. We recommend this pair if you want EDM headphones that won’t burn a hole in your pocket.

beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (250 ohm) Benefits

Very comfortable due to its good cushioning

Great audio quality with accurate and natural sound reproduction

Incredible price to performance as its a fraction of the price of its other competitors

Solid build quality that should withstand the test of time

beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (250 ohm) Drawbacks

The cable is not detachable which makes repairs a hassle

A dac is needed to drive the pair due to its very high impedance

Almost entirely plastic build which makes the pair feel cheap

Verdict

According to our scoring model, you’ll see the highest variance in Comfort, Sound Quality and Build Quality categories with the highest disparity being 2 points. After further analyzing the graphs, you’ll find that the Sennheiser HD 660S excels in Sound Quality and Build Quality where it ties with the Shure SRH 1840. The SRH1840 came in first in Comfort with a lead of 2 points compared to the other two pairs. In terms of Price to Performance, the three pairs were the closest to each other with a variance of only 0.5 and the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro taking the lead.

The Shure SRH1840 comes out on top in Comfort, where it has the biggest lead with 2 points so it’s safe to say the pair will be pleasant to use. Build Quality was a tie with the Sennheiser HD 660S at 9 points meaning both pairs are solid and well constructed. The only category in which the unit came last in was Frequency Response where it lagged behind the leader with 1 point. However, with a score of 8, the pair’s range is nothing to scoff at. As for Sound Quality, the SRH1840 came in second behind the HD 660S. We should mention that the pair still scored 9.5 which makes its performance almost perfect.

We can’t talk about the Shure SRH 1840 without mentioning its runner up, the Sennheiser HD 660S. The pair had an average score of 8.8 making it difficult to overlook. The HD 660S aced the Sound Quality category with a lead of 0.5 points. This means that the pair has more than enough clarity and is amazing for studio use. The 660S also demonstrated noteworthy performance in the Build Quality category and tied the Shure SRH1840 for first place. This means that both pairs should be able to withstand years of use without falling apart.

After carefully analyzing all three units on this list, the Shure SRH 1840 is the best pair of headphones for EDM electronic music production. The pair had an average score of 9 which can be seen throughout our tests as it never fell behind with more than a single point.

The SRH1840 displayed its best performances in the Sound Quality, Build Quality and Comfort categories. Price to Performance was another high scoring category for the pair but it tied for second place since the DT 990 pro had such aggressive pricing. We should also note that while the pair finished in third place in terms of Frequency Response, with a score of 8, it is still great and wide enough for most users. We can safely recommend the Shure SRH 1840 for anyone looking for headphones for EDM electronic music production.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most important aspect of choosing Headphones for EDM/Electronic Music?

EDM is a music genre with a lot of details, so we recommend looking for a pair with a wide frequency response and a neutral sound signature. We also suggest a wide soundstage; this will improve your experience as the more spacious feel will make the music much more immersive and engaging. You should also make sure that whatever pair you buy is comfortable as you will probably be wearing it for hours on end.

Should I pick Open or Closed back headphones for EDM/Electronic Music?

Open back headphones will pretty much always sound better than closed backs at a given price point. So for EDM we suggest investing in an open back pair as it will sound more natural. It will also have a wider soundstage due to its nature which is always a benefit. The only reason to pick closed backs would be to counter the sound leakage as they have better isolation. However, since you’re producing, open backs are the way to go. Closed backs are better for live situations and tracking.

How much should I spend on Headphones for EDM/Electronic Music?

High quality headphones for EDM can be found at various price points. In most situations, paying more will correspond to a better overall package. However, don’t let that discourage you from buying a budget pair, if you can find one that delivers premium performance at a budget. Therefore, you should spend whatever amount you’re comfortable investing, bearing in mind that spending more will result in a better product in most cases.

Do I need Studio Monitors in addition to Headphones for EDM?

For a proper listening experience, headphones and studio monitors should both be present. Each of the two has its own role in a studio and they complement each other. While you can get away with just some good quality open backed headphones especially as they make an excellent reference. We still recommend a combination of both for a complete setup.