Does their convenience come with a price? Are Bluetooth headphones dangerous?! Should you worry about your physical health before you decide to try a pair for yourself? If you’re curious about any possible health risks involved with everyday listening, you’ll want to consider the most current science on the subject.

Keep reading to learn about some of the most popular myths and whether or not they’re actually grounded in reality!

Are Bluetooth Headphones Dangerous?!

We’ve all seen at least one superhero movie where the main character is exposed to radiation or what should’ve been a deadly cocktail of dangerous chemicals. Immediately after, they develop some sort of superhuman abilities. 

Of course, comic books and movies are fictional and your chance of developing extra stretchy limbs or the ability to alter the size of your body on command after being exposed to radiation is pretty slim. 

Are You Being Exposed To Radiation?

One of the most common worries is concern about being exposed to radiation. Is it based in fact, or a myth that needs to be busted? If you are being exposed to radiation, can it cause significant harm to your brain? Let’s take a look at the science!

Types of Radiation Linked To Cancer

For this discussion, we’ll be focusing on 2 types of radiation; ionizing and non-ionizing. Ionizing radiation can cause damage to your cells and DNA and is easily the more harmful of the two.

This type of radiation is emitted from X-ray machines and ultraviolet rays from the sun. (That’s why doctors recommend sunscreen.)

Non-Ionizing Radiation

Headphones emit what’s called ‘non-ionizing’ radiation. Common household items such as microwaves, cell phones, and even radios emit non-ionizing radiation. They produce what’s considered to be a very low level of radiation. Has it been shown to cause cancer? 

According to the National Cancer Institute, non-ionizing radiation has not been linked to the development of cancer. 

Cell Phones vs. Other Household Devices

Take cellphones for example. They also utilize radio frequency signals to transmit and receive data. When they first gained mainstream popularity, there were similar concerns about potential health risks. 

There’s no debate that cell phones emit a stronger frequency, although it’s still minimal compared to the microwave in your kitchen. Current studies regarding other wireless technology have stirred up some controversy. For example, the FDA acknowledges that they do expose us to radiation, but haven’t made any claims that it causes significant harm. 

Other organizations, such as Defender Shield (who specialize in creating radiation-blocking products) recommend using radiation-free air tube headphones to completely eliminate RF exposure. (After you’ve read all the evidence, you can decide if that’s the best route to take.) 

Is There A Healthier Alternative?

With that in mind, headphones produce an even lower level of emission than your smartphone. Studies report that Bluetooth earphones emit a signal that’s 1/1000th the strength of radiation emitted by a cell phone antennae. 

This is why some experts in this field actually recommend using wired or wireless earphones as a healthier alternative to physically holding your phone against your ear. 

If you want to take it a step further, you can even try taking calls using the built-in speaker. According to that theory, the more distance you can put between you and any device that uses radiofrequency waves, the better. 

That said, most experts aren’t ready to say that these extremely weak signals don’t have an effect. Who knows, maybe one day we’ll all wake up with the ability to climb walls or turn into a big green giant when we get angry.

Maybe the hours and hours of time we spent listening to music won’t seem as frivolous as non-melomaniacs would like us to believe. (Until then, there’s no point in losing any sleep over it.)

Wearing Wireless Earbuds All Day

If you’re still skeptical and want to decrease any potentially chemically-altering effects, you might consider limiting the time spent wearing earphones like AirPods, for example. Most of the studies we read while doing our research for this post disprove the theory that Bluetooth technology is harmful or life-threatening. 

While that’s true, we likely won’t know exactly how it’s affecting us until decades of studies have been conducted. Until then, there are a few steps you can take to reduce your exposure if you still have any major concerns. 

Steps To Minimize Exposure:

• Limit time spent listening
• Use wired headphones (or a Bluetooth headset) when you talk on the phone

Watch the video below to see how the radiation produced by the average wireless headset compares to other common household devices:

Are you still worried about the harmful effects? Hopefully, the explanation in the video helped ease any concerns you had before you found this post. If not, you’ll want to keep scrolling. 

Should You Be Worried?

As of now, there isn’t any substantial proof that listening to music via Bluetooth is harmful to your health. Although we can’t necessarily guarantee that they won’t impact you in any way, wireless headphones should be the least of your concern. 

If anything, the most evidence-based approach to limit exposure would be to avoid holding your phone against your ear for extended periods of time. Until more research is done on the effects of lower-level radiation exposure, we can’t say with any true conviction that Bluetooth headphones are dangerous. 

We will continue to keep an eye out for more studies as they’re released and update this information as needed. Don’t throw away your wireless headphones just yet! Even if you literally never take them out of your ears, you can rest assured that your exposure is extremely minimal.

What do you think? Has your mind changed at all now that you’ve seen the current research? Are you more or less skeptical now?

Leave your answer below and let us know what you think! We respond to every single comment and are curious to see what you think. Thanks for dropping by and expanding your knowledge, we hope to see you again soon!

The next time you’re looking for a brand new pair or just need an upgrade for your current setup, you’ll know exactly what to look for and what features matter the most. Of course, your personal taste and opinion both play a very important role, which means our advice and pointers are just that. 

We think you’ll enjoy seeing why it might be a safer investment to spend a few extra dollars instead of buying a replacement every month or two. Keep reading below to learn more!

Difference Between Cheap And Expensive Headphones

The most obvious factors can be broken down into a few different sections. Take a look at the list below to see everything we’ll be covering:

• Can You Even Hear The Difference?
• Well-Built Cans vs. Cheap & Flimsy Plastic
• Can You Wear Them For More Than An Hour?
• How Do They Look?
• Does The Brand Name Matter?
• Should You Always Go Big Or Go Home?

If you’re ready to get started, take a look at our take on whether or not most people can even hear the difference!

Can You Even Hear The Difference?

Many people (including us) consider sound quality to be the #1 most important factor when it comes to making our final decision. One of the main distinctions between a casual listener and audiophile is listening experience. 

What Defines An Audiophile?

Most people who consider themselves to be an audiophile will tell you that they spend way too much time, money (or both) on personal audio equipment. In the most extreme cases, their hobby can even verge on becoming a full-blown addiction. 

Audiophiles also spend quite a bit of solitary time listening to and analyzing their favorite recordings (FLAC files of course). They might spend hours dissecting Radiohead’s OK Computer or Kind Of Blue by Miles Davis, carefully listening for imperfections or just enjoying the music.

Are You A Casual Listener?

If you don’t identify with any of that, you’re probably what we would call a casual listener. You might consume most of your music in the background at social events, during your commute to work or school, or in the car on the radio.

You might have a favorite artist or band, but probably don’t dig too deep and research things like what microphone was used to record “When The Party’s Over” by Billie Eilish. While these are over-generalized categorizations, you probably understand the point. 

All we’re trying to say is that there are varying levels of listeners. Like most things, the more time you spend doing something – the better you become at that specific activity (listening to music in this case). 

When Technical Specs Start To Matter…

At a certain point, you start worrying about things like sound imaging and earpad replacements. Technical specs on the back of the box start to matter a bit more than they did before. Once you start finding yourself debating warm vs. v-shaped sound profiles, you’ve joined the club. 

This is where a difference in price really starts to matter. Most ‘phones that cost $15-$20 aren’t designed to reproduce high-quality recordings with laser-like accuracy. They’re usually designed to convert the audio sent from your laptop or phone into an electrical signal that’s sent through the cable and into your ears. 

If you mainly use music to block the noise in the background and don’t really care what’s playing as long as something is – you probably don’t need to spend very much at all. Maybe you find yourself somewhere in the middle. 

Music Lovers – You Might Be A Budding Audiophile!

You might not care to learn what all the technical terms mean, but you definitely love music. Maybe you spend hours and hours listening to your favorite music but haven’t had the opportunity to listen with audiophile cans. 

If that describes you, you’d probably really enjoy investing a few extra dollars in return for a high-quality performance payoff. Although there is some debate about whether or not anything over $500 sounds astronomically better than sub-$500 cans – there’s no doubt that you’ll notice a difference in sound quality around that price range.

Aside from sound quality, the materials and attention to detail used to construct headphones are also worth seriously considering. Take a look at the section below to see why!

Well-Built Cans vs. Cheap & Flimsy Plastic

Have you ever bought a brand new pair of earbuds that broke after a month? It’s always extremely inconvenient (to say the least). For that exact reason, we never recommend headphones or earbuds that have a month-long life expectancy. 

You Do The Math!

Would you rather buy a new pair of $15 earbuds once a month (adding up to $180 per year) or invest the same amount once on a pair that will last for years? As you can see, it really puts things into perspective when you do the math.

It seems pretty reasonable to expect that we should be able to keep a pair in our backpack, purse, or pocket for a few hours without having to worry about them breaking in half. Unfortunately, that isn’t always a guarantee. 

Can They Survive An Accidental Drop?

The reality is, you can’t put most cans through hell (or very much wear and tear at all) and expect them to survive. That said, there are a few companies who specialize in crafting ultra-durable headphones. The V-Moda Crossfade LP2, for example, have gone through extremely rigorous testing to prove just how durable they really are. 

In most cases, military-level durability isn’t completely necessary. It’s definitely a nice bonus feature to have, as long as everything else lines up (comfort, sound quality, etc.) – but most of us don’t absolutely need it. That said, we can all appreciate a well-built pair of cans that won’t break after a single drop. 

Do You Always Get What You Pay For?

This is where the difference in price usually plays a pretty significant role. Then again, there are some pretty expensive cans that wouldn’t stand a chance (in terms of build quality) against others that cost much less. Usually, it’s safe to assume that you get what you pay for, but there will always be an exception or two. 

One area that most of us aren’t willing to sacrifice is comfort. It’s an absolutely essential factor to consider, whether you’re shopping for some new in-ear, on-ear, or over-ear headphones. Are they really worth it if you can’t wear them for longer than a single hour before you need a break?

Can You Wear Them For More Than An Hour?

Sometimes when you put some ‘phones on your head, they just don’t feel right. Most companies say things like “you can wear them all day long” or slap “premium comfort” in bold lettering on the side of the box. Unfortunately, they don’t always deliver on that promise. 

One headphone might fit perfectly on your head but clamps too hard on someone else’s. You might prefer a tighter clamp while they prefer a loosely fitted wearing design. Just like each factor we’ve already covered, our personal preferences tend to vary.

What Ear Pads Do You Prefer?

We could tell you that velour ear pads are more comfortable than memory foam (or vice versa) but we can only speak for ourselves. Cheaper headphones usually include a single pair of stock ear pads that are usually basic foam with faux leather covering. 

If you tried those first and then compared them side by side with memory foam pads, you’d feel a pretty major difference. Many higher-end ‘phones come with an extra set of pads that you can mess around with until you find the perfect fit. 

Once you start moving up into the $150/$200 price range – you’ll have more options for customization. Your options become more and more limited on most models costing less than that. When it comes to headband comfort, the basic design is usually the most important factor.

Why Does The Headband Style Have Such A Major Affect?

For example, some people find that the wing support headband design used on the Audio Technica R70x is much comfier than the basic single-band design that you’re used to seeing. Many higher-end cans have a split headband design with a suspended strap underneath that rests on the top of your head.

We’re not quite sure why the split design isn’t more common on less-expensive cans since it tends to be one of the best ways to evenly distribute the weight.

It really boils down to 3 main elements: 

1. Headband padding/clamp
2. Earpads
3. Weight distribution

Although it’s not impossible to find a budget-friendly option that checks most of those off the list, it is much less common. Ventilation is also pretty important, especially for gaming or mixing tracks in the studio. 

Ventilation & Letting Your Ears Breathe!

If your ears are dripping with sweat 30 minutes into your gaming/studio session – that’s never a good sign. That being said, it’s fairly normal (and even recommended) to take a break once in a while to let your ears breathe and rest for a few minutes. 

What’s the bottom line? If your cans cause significant discomfort after fairly short periods of use it may have something to do with the quality. Nine times out of ten, high-end manufacturers pay more attention to detail which usually lends to an effortlessly comfortable listening experience. 

How Do They Look?

In our humble opinion, general aesthetics one of the least important factors when it comes to overall performance. (Then again, some of us are a little bit pickier than others.) For you, how they look might be more important than sound quality or durability. 

We’ve seen some pretty cool-looking inexpensive cans at the gas station, but that also tends to be their only strong suit. No matter how you try to spin it – how you think they look when you’re wearing them is purely a matter of opinion.

A Work Of Art Is Open To Interpretation

Well-built cans are truly a work of art. The Mona Lisa is a famous painting for a reason, but have you seen a painting since then that you enjoyed even more? We all enjoy different styles of artwork and the same concept applies to audio gear. 

For the last section, let’s take a look at whether or not a well-respected brand name should sway your opinion one way or the other!

Does The Brand Name Matter?

Although the brand name and advertising does play a pretty big role in how you make your final decision, it’s not necessarily the best marker of a quality product. That said, you can count on all of the Top 10 headphone brands listed here. 

Each one was selected based on their lifetime company reputation, customer reviews from people like us, and overall performance. Beats is one brand that has gotten some of the most mixed feedback from the crowd. 

Weighing Personal Preference vs. Reputation

Once again, much of this boils down to personal preference and there’s quite a bit of room for debate on the opinion of an audiophile compared to a casual listener. Audiophiles who hated Beats usually based their opinion on a strong dislike of their v-shaped sound profile and over-inflated price tag. 

The average listener might agree with the second piece but disagree with the first. The way a headphone sound is subjective the same way aesthetics are. Most of the time you can trust brands that have a solid reputation backed by mostly positive reviews. 

If the reviews don’t match the reputation, it’s probably wise to avoid that brand. Last but not least, let’s clear up the debate surrounding price vs. performance! 

Should You Always Go Big Or Go Home?

Ultimately, it’s usually pretty safe to assume that you get what you pay for. Although price tags can be deceiving in some cases, they’re usually somewhere within the general ballpark. That being said, price isn’t always the be all end all. 

Sometimes, it might be smarter to save a few extra dollars rather than fork out a few hundred if you’re not 100% sure that they’re exactly what you’re looking for. It’s also a good rule of thumb to stay within your budget (no matter how big or small). 

Even though $5,000 cans might buy you a mind-blowing, life-changing sonic experience – it’s probably not as important as paying next month’s rent. By now, we hope you understand the difference between cheap and expensive headphones. 

Some are pretty obvious and others only become obvious once you’ve tried them on for yourself. If you still aren’t quite sure how to tell, feel free to leave your question below! We respond to every single comment and look forward to helping in any way we can! 

Thanks for taking the time to stop by and learn – we hope to see you here again. Happy listening!

There are a few pretty obvious differences, as well as one or two that don’t exactly jump out at first glance. We’ll give you a brief rundown of how to tell them apart, where each one outperforms the other, and why you might prefer one over the other. 

It’s important to know how to tell them apart, whether you’re a gamer or just enjoy listening to music. Once you know the answer – it’ll be that much easier to make your decision when you’re ready to shop for a new pair!

Difference Between Headsets And Headphones

If you play Xbox, Playstation, or prefer to game on your PC, you probably have a slight edge over someone who doesn’t (when it comes to knowing which is which). There’s such a wide variety of both to choose from that it can seem a bit overwhelming. 

Here are the Top 4 reasons you might prefer one over the other:

1. Reasons You Need A Built-in/Boom Mic
2. Sonic Performance – Which One Sounds Better?
3. Build Design & Outward Appearance
4. For Gaming, Listening To Music, and Watching Movies

Once you understand the difference, we’ll also give you a few brand recommendations for both. First, let’s take a look at which one usually has a built-in microphone – and why you may or may not actually need one!

Reasons You Need A Built-In/Boom Mic

While most headphones nowadays usually have some sort of microphone, it’s usually built into the cable. Nine times out of ten, the call clarity of an in-line mic isn’t exactly what you’d call ‘crystal clear’. 

Usually, the person on the other end will hear some background noise, static, or grain mixed in with your voice. Although that’s true in many cases, there are always a few exceptions. Then again, pristine call clarity is mainly important if you plan on using them for anything other than listening to music.

Call/Chat Clarity – Boom Mic vs. In-Line Microphone

This is where having a boom mic comes in handy. If you’re not familiar, a boom mic is a built-in microphone that’s often attached to one of the ear cups. Sometimes, they retract or fold-out so they’re not in the way when you don’t need a mic.

Other times, they’re completely non-removable and don’t fold or retract at all. Headsets like that were specifically designed for hardcore (or casual) gamers that play live or stream on a social media channel. 

Some people even use them for recording podcasts, although using a separate microphone produces much better results. That said, most boom mics have better call/chat clarity than in-line microphones. 

Before we start rambling too much – headsets have boom mics and most headphones don’t. You know which one has better call clarity, but which one sounds better when you’re gaming or listening to your favorite playlist? 

Sonic Performance – Which One Sounds Better? 

It’s almost impossible to argue that you’ll hear a pretty obvious difference between the two. This is especially true if you’ve ever used any decent pair of over/on-ear headphones. If you asked an audiophile which one they prefer, the answer would be completely unanimous.

Many audiophiles prefer the sound of an open back ‘phone. One of the main reasons being that they create a wider and more spacious soundstage (also referred to as soundscape in the gaming community). If you’re not familiar with the term, it basically means that open back cans reproduce sound that’s closer to the live experience.

They’re able to more accurately simulate what it’s like to be in the same room as the band or artist you’re listening to. The same feeling applies to gaming. Gaming with open back cans makes you feel more fully immersed in the action and gameplay. 

Wider Soundstage (AKA Soundscape)

A wider soundstage for listening to music exclusively will always be a top priority for hardcore music fans. (If you’ve never tried them for gaming, you’ll be surprised at how obvious the difference is.) 

While there are a few semi-open back gaming headsets, they’re pretty few and far between. It’d be even more difficult to find one that’s fully-open. Some semi-open backs come pretty close to achieving similar results, but they’ll never be able to stand neck and neck with cans like the Sennheiser HD600. 

Since the HD600 wasn’t necessarily designed for gamers, they don’t have an in-line or boom mic. Gamers who want to experience (not just play) COD or Fortnite still find a way to work around it. The V-Moda BoomPro microphone attachment (pictured below) is one of the most popular ways to convert normal ‘phones into a certified gaming can. You can attach it to any ‘phone that has the standard 3.5 mm connector, instead of sacrificing a stellar sonic performance in return for a built-in boom mic. Some headsets cost as much (if not more) than headphones that sound 10x better (even with the boom mic add-on).

Build Design & Outward Appearance

Their respective build designs and outward appearance are two more easy ways to tell them apart. Dedicated gaming cans with a boom mic usually have what some might call a ‘futuristic’ or ‘military-esque’ design. 

Regular headphones usually lean towards a pretty minimalistic design and don’t have a ton of extra frills or equipment hanging off the ear cup. Of course, designs do vary by brand and model. That’s one of the most obvious distinctions you can point out just by looking at them side-by-side.

Another feature that’s mostly exclusive to headsets are their light-up RGB (red, green, and blue) ear cups. Some people prefer the flashy color scheme illumination, but it literally has zero effect on overall performance. It’s a purely aesthetic choice that some are willing to pay extra for, while others can easily live without. 

Quality, Durability, and Comfort

They vary not only by outward appearance but also in terms of build quality. When you spend a few extra dollars on higher-end headphones, you’re usually paying for things like extra durability, a quality headband, plush ear pads, and a sturdy cable. 

Of course, that isn’t to say that well-built and comfortable gaming headsets don’t exist. On average, it’s much easier to find a pair of regular ‘phones that check off every single box. Now that you know most of the basics, take a look at which one’s more practical for gaming, music, and watching movies! 

For Gaming, Listening To Music, and Watching Movies

People will always be debate this subject, but for listening to music, it’s hard to argue against regular ‘phones. Headsets are usually more popular for gaming or live streaming on Twitch and YouTube.

Some people even use them for podcasting, although recording with a dedicated microphone will produce much better results (for minimizing background noise and getting the best vocal clarity). You can, without a doubt, use either one for gaming, music, and movies, although it really depends on what you value the most.

If your main priority is to hear the best sound quality possible – use ‘phones. If you mainly care about how you look when you’re wearing them – you might prefer a gaming headset. (Who are we kidding, the RGB ear cups can look pretty cool in a dark room.)

On top of that, a microphone is completely unnecessary when you’re watching a movie. That’s why we recommend regular cans as the best all-around and most practical choice. Take a look at the final section below to see a few brand recommendations for both! 

Brand Recommendations For Both

Some brands are able to specialize in both styles while others only make gaming equipment. Razer, Astro, and HyperX are a few of the most popular companies for gaming audio. Other companies like Sennheiser, mainly manufacture headphones, but also offer a few gaming options. 

When it comes to listening to music, watching movies, and even gaming – the Top 10 headphone brands listed here specialize in creating the best listening experience possible. Each brand offers a pretty wide range of options from fairly inexpensive to extremely high-end models.

Once again, if you’re someone who doesn’t like to play on Live and don’t stream or record yourself, there’s almost no reason for a boom mic. Becoming completely immersed in your audio on the other hand, is absolutely essential. 

If you prefer a futuristic aesthetic and image over performance, many of the best Xbox One headsets do a pretty good job at executing a solid mix of both worlds. For this style, we recommend Razer, HyperX, or Astro. 

What Do You Think? Is One Better Than The Other?

Now that you know how to tell the difference between headsets and headphones, what do you think? Is one really better than the other, or is it a matter of weighing their strengths and weaknesses against your specific needs?

Ultimately, it really boils down to how and where you plan on using them. Since personal taste and preference plays such a big role in any discussion about audio gear, it’s usually a safe bet to go with your gut. 

If possible, you could always try both and see which one you prefer! (Nothing beats personal experience.) If you have any questions or want to chime in and let us know what you think, leave a comment below! 

Thanks for stopping by, we hope you enjoyed and look forward to hearing from you! 

We know how overwhelming it can seem when you try to decipher what the reviewer actually means when they describe a pair of headphones using a specific signature label (especially when it’s not fully explained).

If you enjoy shopping for headphones online, it’s not always possible to try them out before you buy them. Which is another reason why it’s so important to have a general idea of what to expect before you settle on any single recommendation!

What Is A Sound Profile?

If we had to give you the most basic definition in one sentence, it would be something like this: the audio term used to describe how a specific headphone sounds, based on which frequencies are more (or less) emphasized. 

Since audio is largely subjective (meaning you might prefer a different style than we do) there is no right or wrong answer. The signature you prefer almost completely depends on which genres of music you usually listen to. 

It also depends on what kind of listener you are. For example, if you’re an audiophile, you’ll probably lean towards a style of playback that the average listener might not enjoy. If you have a home studio (or record professionally) your taste might also tend to vary, probably depending upon the setting. 

Audio Lingo You Need To Know

If you’re not familiar with the audio lingo for the 3 main levels of a frequency response, you’ll want to take a look at the list below!

• Lows (bass or low end)
• Mids (mid-range)
• Highs (treble)

Once you start reading about each of the 8 signatures below, you’ll see why it’s important to know what a reviewer means when they reference lows, mids, and highs. When you see ‘lows’ or ‘low end’ – think bass. 

When you see ‘mids’ or ‘mid-range’ – think vocals and/or instrumentation that sits in between super high and super low frequencies. Lastly, instruments like the violin or high-note soprano vocals represent the ‘highs’ or ‘treble’. 

Remember These 7 Sound Signatures!

Now that you have some important background information, you’re ready to dive into the specific types of profiles. Read about each of the categories below to equip yourself with the knowledge you need to make the most informed decision next time you’re researching a specific headphone! 

1. Extra Bass/Bass Boosted
2. V-Shaped
3. U-Shaped
4. Flat/Neutral
5. Bright
6. Balanced
7. Warm

What does each one mean? How will they affect the way your music sounds? If you don’t want to be left in the dark next time you read a review keep reading below! 

1. Extra Bass/Bass Boosted

Bass, more bass, and a little extra bass… just in case there wasn’t already enough to satisfy most bass heads needs. This one is exactly what you probably thought when you read it. The low end is the obvious focus here while the mids and highs are both dialed back.

Companies like V Moda and Beats make some pretty heavily bass-boosted headphones that are so strong, they can make your skull literally vibrate at higher volumes. They’re usually loud and aggressive, which sometimes results in a slight loss of detail. 

If the bass is so powerful that you can’t hear anything other than the loud thump, your music can start to sound ‘muddy’. This is why most audiophiles tend to steer clear of extremely bass-heavy cans.

Best genres to listen to with this type:

• EDM
• Hip-Hop/Rap
• House
• Ambient
• Pop 

Keep scrolling to see what a v-shaped signature looks like!

2. V-Shaped

V-shaped headphones are similar to bass boosted, except they have a strong bass (low end) with a laid back mid-range and sparkling highs (treble). They’re usually described as sounding extremely ‘exciting’ or ‘engaging’. 

Brands like Beats, V Moda, and Sony are well-known for making v-shaped headphones. Since the lows and highs are both elevated, most music you listen to will sound much louder and more crisp. Certain headphones do have a tendency to become so crisp that the treble can sound piercing, which is the main downside of this signature.    

If you like listening to music to get pumped up, excited, or filled with adrenaline, you’ll enjoy most v-shaped cans!

Best genres to listen to with this type:

• EDM
• Hip-Hop/Rap
• House
• Ambient
• Pop 
• Rock

Keep scrolling to see what a u-shaped signature looks like!

3. U-Shaped

U-shaped cans produce a very similar response to v-shaped, except the mids aren’t quite as dramatically lowered. Their response on a graph would look more like an uppercase ‘U’, hence u-shaped.

They have a slightly more smooth (but elevated bass/treble), as opposed to the sharp mid range drop off that creates a v-shaped signature. The mid range should be a bit more prominent on u-shaped cans. The 1More Triple Driver in-ears are a great example of a u-shaped signature. 

Best genres to listen to with this type:

• EDM
• Hip-Hop/Rap
• Electronic
• House
• Ambient
• Pop 
• Rock

Keep scrolling to see what a flat/neutral signature looks like!

4. Flat/Neutral

This is usually one of the most misleading signatures out of the bunch. When we think of flat soda, it’s usually not a good thing. Your favorite soda just doesn’t taste the same when the fizz stops bubbling inside your cup. (Luckily that isn’t the case when it comes to headphones.)

Flat or neutral cans don’t necessarily sound ‘boring’ or ‘dull’ at all. In fact, they can produce a different kind of excitement that others can’t. If you were looking at a frequency graph, a neutral response looks more like a flat line. 

The lows, mids, and highs are more well-balanced, which is one reason many audiophiles and audio professionals strongly prefer a neutral response over v-shaped. A flat signature is designed to sound more natural since it allows you to hear every single frequency in great detail. Most of the open back headphones here produce the flat and neutral signature that audiophiles and professionals love! 

Best genres to listen to with this type:

• Any genre you prefer!

Keep scrolling to see what a bright signature looks like!

5. Bright

Bright headphones are less common since our ears are more sensitive to higher frequencies. Their elevated upper mid range and top-heavy treble tend to cause ear fatigue during longer listening sessions.

There is far less emphasis on the bass and headphones like the Grado SR325e were specifically designed to sound very bright. Often times, a bright signature contributes to a forward-sounding (although not overly aggressive) response. 

Since our ear size, shape, and sensitivities do vary from person to person – only a select few tend to favor a bright signature. Grado and Beyerdynamic are two of the most popular brands that are well-known for producing brighter cans. 

Best genres to listen to with this type:

• Rock 
• Metal
• Jazz
• Acoustic

Keep scrolling to see what a balanced signature looks like!

6. Balanced

Is balanced the same thing as flat or neutral? While they do share a few similarities, they’re not completely interchangeable. When you compared a balanced vs. flat headphone, all 3 levels are slightly more elevated on the balanced pair. 

Their sound signature places them on the spectrum somewhere between bright and bass heavy cans. The highs aren’t too sharp and the bass doesn’t overpower the mid range. Brands like Sennheiser, Audio Technica, Monoprice, and Philips make some of the best balanced cans. 

As far as a specific model we’d recommend, the Monoprice M1060 use planar magnetic drivers to produce well-balanced, audiophile-level sound quality. If you already know you don’t prefer completely neutral cans, you’d probably really enjoy trying a pair of balanced headphones!

Best genres to listen to with this type:

• Any genre you prefer!

Keep scrolling to see what a warm signature looks like!

7. Warm

A warm signature features a heavy low end (bass) with prominent mids and noticeably recessed highs. Although that explanation might seem somewhat similar to bass boosted, the slightly boosted mid range is the main difference between the two. 

The treble is noticeably weaker and laid back, which is why you probably want to avoid warm headphones if you’re a fan of metal, rock, or acoustic music. Their elevated low end combined with a slight mid range bump creates a comfortable and smooth tonal quality.

If you prefer a little extra bass and don’t want to sacrifice vocals in the mid range, you’d probably enjoy some warm cans. The Audio Technica ATH M60x (an on-ear from their M series line) are a great example since they have a smooth, extended low end and completely immersive sound signature.

Best genres to listen to with this type:

• Hip-Hop/Rap
• EDM
• Trap
• Pop
• House
• Ambient

Which Signature Do You Prefer?

In the world of personal audio, there are tons of technical terms and definitions. When you’re unsure about the technical jargon being tossed around when you’re reading a review, it can be overwhelming enough to give anyone a real headache. 

Now that you know a little bit more on the subject, do you prefer one signature over the other? Do you enjoy exciting and aggressive playback, or a laid-back and neutral response? 

Hopefully this helped clear up any confusion you had before stopping by! Now that you’re armed with some new audio knowledge to add to your Rolodex, you won’t have to wonder about what a sound profile is and why it makes such a big difference! 

If you want to leave a comment, or have a question about anything you just read, feel free to leave your thoughts below! We respond to every single comment (usually within 24 hours) and look forward to hearing from you! Thanks for stopping by, we hope you enjoyed!

There are multiple factors that have an effect, including the microphone placement used during the initial recording, as well as the style of headphone you use to consume it. If you’ve ever been to a live show, you know what it’s like to see the guitarist break out into a tear-jerking solo or watch the drummer smash his drum kit until his hands bleed.

Ultimately, terms like imaging and soundstage wouldn’t exist without utilizing the live experience as our main reference point. Is it possible to capture that lightning in a bottle listening to your favorite song, wearing headphones in solitude? 

What Is Sound Imaging?

Let’s be honest, most stock earbuds or headphones that come with the purchase of a new phone usually aren’t the best of the best. In fact, nine times out of ten, they have a below-average performance and only do their job at the most basic level. Nothing more, nothing less. 

When you’re listening with stuck ‘buds, the music usually sounds like it’s happening inside your head. Each instrument, vocal passage, and sound effect becomes condensed into a tight and compact combination of audio vibrations. 

When you’re standing outside listening to the birds chirping, dogs barking, and planes flying overhead – each sound appears to be coming from outside your head. You can hear the airplane or helicopter passing overhead. You know it’s there, but you also recognize it’s flying at an elevation.

How It Affects Your Gaming & Movie Watching Experience

How does this apply to headphones? Well, that’s because width, depth, and height all play an essential role. For example, if you’re watching an action movie (or playing a fast-paced video game), you want to be aware of where the sounds are coming from. 

Width, Depth, and Height

The width represents your left and right channels. Depth is important for simulating sounds coming from below you. (Like when you’re standing on the edge of a cliff or waiting to drop out of a helicopter in a video game, for example.) In the example we used above, height helps pinpoint any sounds above you. 

Gain A Competitive Gaming Edge

Accurate height reproduction can be especially important for gaming. Being able to pinpoint where you are in relation to the virtual environment will not only give you a competitive advantage, but make any game ten times more immersive. 

If another character is sneaking up from behind or someone called in an airstrike, a good pair of headphones will accurately locate their position. That way, you can turn around or look up when you need to and quickly react to the incoming threat. 

Watching vs. Experiencing Movies

When you’re watching movies with headphones, the same concept applies (except you can’t interact with the characters… yet). Would you rather feel like you’re watching a movie, or experience it as if you’re a part of the cast and story line? 

Soundstage & How It Plays A Role

Another closely-related term that’s important to know is “soundstage”. A soundstage is pretty much exactly what you might be thinking. A simulated (or reproduced) stage where the sound (from your music/movie/game) is coming from.

The Typical Live Band Setup 

Typically, the singer stands in the center of the stage and the other band members play on either side of the vocalist. The drummer is usually set up behind the rest of the band.

When it’s done correctly, it feels like the vocals are coming from the center of your head. Sometimes, it even makes you feel like you’re literally standing right next to the vocalist on stage (minus the crowd noise, of course). 

3 Main Elements To Remember

Soundstage and imaging share what could be described as some sort of audio marriage. They both work side by side to best simulate and recreate the live experience. The soundstage is the musical backdrop, the music is the music, and imaging highlights where each specific sound (playing from your cans) is located.

All that is happening inside our cans while we sit back and enjoy our favorite songs! It doesn’t seem like a very complex process when you break it down into those 3 elements, but when it’s done right – it can make a world of difference. 

That’s why it’s especially impressive when a pair of in-ear headphones (like the 1More Triple Driver) can pull it off relatively well. Tiny electrical components housed inside a fairly compact ear cup or earpiece almost seamlessly managing to emulate a live band or DJ! Does all that still apply if you’re listening to a low quality recording? 

Initial Recording Process & Miking

Believe it or not, the original recording process also plays an extremely important role. In the world of recording, there’s a term called “miking”. Basically, it’s a fancy word for microphone placement and/or positioning. 

There’s a lot more that goes into recording than simply grabbing a mic and singing into it. How and where each microphone was placed, as well as the shape and size of the mics used to record has a major effect on the final product. 

Miking’s Effect On What You Hear

Miking is one of the most important factors that sets one song apart from another. Many of the most popular songs we’ve all heard at least once or twice implement specific miking techniques. If there was very little thought put into the miking process, your headphones can’t do very much to fix it.

Even the most expensive open back cans won’t be able to just rearrange and correct where it sounds like the instruments or vocalist are/were standing. Although you can convert audio files into high res formats, the initial recording still serves as the main foundation. 

“Voodoo Child” by Jimi Hendrix is a prime example of a recording that clearly highlights where each instrument is located in relation to the rest of the band. Listen to the full audio for “Voodoo Child” below to get a better idea:

Were you able to hear each channel fade and sway in and out? If you’re not a fan of Hendrix, here are a few more tracks to test your headphones. For the most part, the quality of a recording makes the most significant difference, although it’s still not necessarily the end all be all if you’re using a pair of quality (especially open back) cans. 

The Sonic Hierarchy Of Needs

Once again, if you’re chasing pure audio perfection, even the most expensive cans won’t be able to alter the original recording playing from your DAP, desktop, or turntable. If there was a sonic hierarchy of needs (in order of importance), you would hope it fell within these general guidelines:

• Quality recording equipment
• Optimal miking
• Conversion to a high res audio format (optional, but makes a difference)
• Open back headphones that can properly reproduce the recording

That isn’t to say that it’s a life and death situation without those 4 guidelines, but they do make a significant impact. No matter what kind of headphones you’re currently using, you’ll still want to test them with the simulation below!

Test Your Headphones!

The short video below is a pretty accurate simulation for testing depth, width, height, placement, and real-life sounds (like a helicopter above you). It does a great job at visually illustrating everything we’ve covered so far. 

Make sure you’re wearing headphones before you press play! 

The test is pretty straightforward, but hopefully it helped clear up any confusion! 

Top 3 Entry-Level Headphone Recommendations

If you made it this far, you might be curious about some specific headphone recommendations. All 3 of our top recommendations are open back models. Traditionally, open back cans have a much wider soundstage, which is why they’re the most popular choice for this purpose. 

Here are 3 of the best entry-level open back headphones:

1. Audio Technica R70x
2. Philips Fidelio X2
3. Sennheiser HD600

Most audiophiles agree that the HD600 are one of (if not the most) accurate open back reference cans. Out of our top 3 recommendations, they have the most narrow soundstage with laser-focused imaging accuracy. 

The Fidelio X2 also do an awesome job at highlighting where each sound is coming from. They’re quickly becoming a popular choice for gamers, even replacing the use of many dedicated gaming headsets. 

The Audio Technica R70x have a slightly more narrow soundstage, although not quite as narrow as the HD600. They’re great for picking up on the smallest of details and perform very well for a variety of listening settings. 

Side-By-Side Comparison – Can You Hear The Difference?

Here’s the good news. You don’t have to own a $1,000 pair of headphones to experience the sensation we’re describing. On the flip side, stock Apple earbuds or AirPods aren’t exactly capable of this level of audio reproduction.

If you’re not ready to make the investment yet, but know someone who already has some open back cans – why not ask to borrow them for a day or two? Try watching a movie, playing a game, listening to music (or all 3) to see what you think! Put everything you’ve read here to the test and compare them side-by-side with your current pair.

Now that you made it all the way to the end, you won’t have to scratch your head and wonder what people mean when they reference sound imaging! The next time you read an extensive headphone review, you’ll know exactly what they’re talking about and why it’s important. If anything we’ve covered still doesn’t make perfect sense, leave a comment or question below! 

We always respond (usually within 24 hours) and look forward to hearing your thoughts! Thanks for taking the time to stop by and learn about one of the most important audio terms, we hope you enjoyed! 

Did Apple have a specific purpose in mind when they designed their truly wireless ‘buds? Are the AirPods a solid all-around choice, or are they best-suited for non-active use? Keep reading to see why they are (or absolutely aren’t) ideal for active use! 

Using AirPods For Working Out?

Whether you already own a pair, or are thinking about grabbing one soon, we’ll give you some tips and/or advice to consider. At the end of the day, you can obviously use them however you’d like, but at least you did your research and considered both sides! 

The AirPods are extremely lightweight (0.14 ounces per earpiece), wireless, and barely visible when you’re wearing them. In many cases, those 3 factors combined usually make for a great workout companion. That being said, if you look a little bit deeper underneath the most obvious surface specs, there may be more than meets the eye!

Should You Worry About Their Average Battery Life?

The AirPods have 5-hour battery life on a single charge, which is pretty decent compared to other similarly designed truly wireless earbuds. Most of us don’t put in more than (or even close to) 5 hours at the gym or yoga class on any given day. Usually, a single workout (for most people) lasts anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour or two. 

As far as single charge battery life is concerned, they offer about the same amount of juice as most competitors. If you were thinking about grabbing a pair for everyday use during work or at home, there are a few better options, for around the same price, that may be more appropriate. 

Is The Charging Case Wireless?

This is partially due to the fact that the included charging case isn’t wireless. If you don’t have access to a laptop, PC, battery bank, or other devices that’s compatible with the lightning connector – when the case runs out of juice, that’s it.

You can use the included case for 2 additional full charges and in case you forget to charge it the night before – you can use the 15-minute quick charge feature for 3 extra hours of battery life. 5 hours is pretty average in the truly wireless arena and these are no exception. 

To help put it into perspective, other popular models like the Beoplay E8 offer about the same amount of life on a single charge. 

Are They Waterproof? – Why It Matters!

It’s extremely important to remember that they aren’t officially water or sweatproof. They don’t carry what’s called an IPX rating. What is an IPX rating? IPX ratings are based on a scale of how much moisture your headphones can withstand before they completely give out and short circuit. 

Headphone companies are required to put their products through rigorous testing before they can slap an official rating on the outside of the box. Without the required testing (or an official rating), you’re pretty much rolling the dice and hoping for the best. 

That being said, there are a few exceptions. Since you can still sweat quite a bit while wearing unofficially sweat-resistant earbuds, it’s safe to say you could technically do the same with AirPods. Some in-ear headphones can be worn on a run or at the gym despite the fact that they’re not completely waterproof. 

Constant Worry vs. Guaranteed Piece Of Mind

Granted, you won’t be able to take them for a swim or safely bring them with you on a rainy morning when you want to get your day started with some jogging. Well, you can, but it’s definitely not advised. Even if you have the hood of your windbreaker fitted snugly over your head, there’s always the possibility that some rain will find it’s way under the hood.

Whether or not enough rain (to cause permanent damage) will seep in and destroy your investment largely depends on the preventative measures you’re willing to take. Would you rather live with the fear of excessive moisture causing irreparable damage while you’re breathing heavily and sweating bullets in between reps, or have the calm piece of mind guaranteed by actual waterproof/resistant ‘phones? 

These particular earbuds definitely weren’t built to survive much more than everyday wear and tear. If you’re looking for a more rugged and durable option, we recommend considering our alternative recommendation below! 

Ergonomic Comfort – Will They Fall Out Of Your Ears?

Most people don’t run into any major issues keeping them securely fitted inside their ears. Of course, our ear size and shape does vary, so we can’t absolutely guarantee a perfectly stable fit.

Watch the video below to see a live demonstration at the gym:

If they don’t want to stay in your ears for some reason, you can grab some silicone ear hooks using the link here to help them stay in place. Aside from keeping them securely in place, there is one more feature you’ll want to consider. 

In our mind, the main issue lies in their signature build design. Apple is notorious for manufacturing earbuds that are completely plastic. Why does their plastic build become an issue?

If you’ve ever kept a pair of all-plastic earbuds in your ears for longer than an hour or two – you know how uncomfortable they can get. In ear headphones that come with a variety of ear tip sizes (and materials) are usually much better suited for both active and casual use. 

Plastic Ear Tips For Active Use

As we mentioned above, most of us don’t spend all day at the gym, so you can probably get away with wearing them during your average workout. Although they definitely won’t be as forgiving as ‘buds with comfy silicone or memory foam tips, it won’t be the end of the world either. 

Here’s the bottom line – plastic ear tips will cause some level of discomfort, no matter how “ergonomically-designed” they claim to be. The fact of the matter is that the soft cartilage on the inside of our ears doesn’t exactly get along very well with a piece of hard plastic resting inside for very long (regardless of how we’re using them). 

Bluetooth Range & Sound Quality – Above Average?

Unless you want to keep your phone in your pocket (or on an athletic armband) a solid wireless range is pretty important. This is one area where these ‘buds outperform other truly wireless earbuds. If you want to keep your phone in a locker, or in your bag while you lift some weights – the connection will remain intact at distances of up to 100 feet.  

Most other wireless headphones usually tap out at around 30-50 feet. Their Bluetooth connection and overall performance is actually pretty impressive. When you’re streaming from your smartphone, the sound quality won’t sound like an old portable radio. 

Sound Quality Compared To The EarPods

As you saw in the video above, they have a stronger bass response compared to the EarPods which use a lightning USB connection. They are advertised as being able to produce AAC sound quality, which is Apple’s default file format. 

Although there’s still some debate about what sounds better (AAC vs. MP3) most people hear a noticeable improvement. When you couple their wireless transmission range with the AAC sound quality, their Bluetooth performance is easily one of their strongest features. 

Price vs. Performance – What Are You Willing To Sacrifice?

The AirPods usually cost around $159 brand new. Sure, the built-in Apple W1 chip and Bluetooth performance are pretty impressive, but is it worth the trade-off in other areas? The answer to that question ultimately depends on what you’re willing to sacrifice. If comfort is the first thing you look for before buying new ‘buds, you’ll be setting yourself up for some major disappointment. 

If a lightweight build and lightning-fast wireless connectivity is your main priority, you might really enjoy these ‘buds. There have been very few complaints about sound quality and the 100 ft. wireless range doesn’t leave too much to room for improvement. 

Practicality For Extremely Rigorous Exercise

All that’s great, unless you plan on bringing them along for the extremely rigorous exercise. The fact that they’re not waterproof or even sweat resistant is by far, their biggest downfall. Whether or not you choose to use the AirPods for working out ultimately depends on which type of exercise you prefer. 

In most cases, they’re fine for lighter jogging, weight lifting, stretching, and bodyweight exercises like push-ups. Their overall practicality starts to decrease as you increase the intensity of your workouts. 

It would probably be wise to avoid using them for any exercise that usually leaves you drenched in sweat or requires involves excessive head movement. Then again, if you decide to try the silicone ear hooks we linked to above, you will have a bit more wiggle room. 

What’s Their Least-Impressive Feature? Are There Any Alternatives?

Once again, their lack of an official IPX rating immediately knocks a few points off their overall score, especially for this application. Well that, on top of their all-plastic build of course. If you’re a die-hard Apple fan who can spare the extra cash (without having to worry about ruining them with sweat exposure), give them a try and see what you think!

If you’d rather invest in a completely workout-ready pair of earbuds, you could try a cheaper alternative first. Or, you could skip that step entirely and grab a pair of reliable gym-tested ‘buds like the Jabra Elite Active 65t. Although they are a little bit more expensive, the guaranteed peace of mind is totally worth it!

Did Your Opinion Change, Or Stay The Same?!

After reading this, how has your opinion changed? You most likely had at least some idea about the practicality of using AirPods for working out, but maybe we helped sway you one way or the other.  

Do you already own a pair, or are you doing the research before you actually try them for yourself? Let us know what you think by leaving a comment below! If you have any questions about any of the features we covered above, feel free to ask! 

We always respond to every single comment and look forward to hearing from you! Next time you go for a run or hit the gym – will you be bringing them along for the ride, or leaving them at home? 

Is there any way to sift through the pile and find exactly what you’re looking for before you settle on your best option? How can you tell low-quality apart from high-quality if you haven’t had a chance to listen to them yourself? 

One of our favorite time-tested methods is to do a little research about the company’s reputation. Maybe they struck gold once or twice and managed to create a few one-hit wonders. When that’s the case, it usually doesn’t guarantee their next model will automatically surpass your expectations. (In fact, it usually means the opposite.) 

That’s exactly why each of the Top 10 headphone brands we selected for this list have a proven track record you can trust. Although it’s pretty much impossible that every single pair from any company is going to be a home run – consistent quality is a clear marker of a solid brand!

Top Headphone Brands

Each of the companies listed below specialize in a specific wearing and listening style. Some excel in multiple areas, while others tend to stick to their guns and continue to make what’s been proven to make us happy! (Technically, our list includes a total of 20 companies.)

It’s broken down into 2 main sections: ten of the best for casual listeners and ten of the best for audiophiles. As we mentioned above, some of the companies not only specialize in a certain area but make ‘phones that fit within a specific budget.

Before you dive into the actual list, keep in mind that we were not paid by any company to be included on this list. Our rankings are solely based on a combination of experience, consumer reviews, research, and a rock-solid reputation. Now that that’s out of the way, take a look at the table below to see which ones made the cut!

Ready to get started? 

Best Brands For Casual Listeners

We all enjoy listening to music with some freshly-opened headphones that just arrived in the mail. It’s hard to deny the excitement of cutting the tape, unfolding each flap, and pulling them out of the packaging.

Before you get to that step, making the best decision possible and choosing a quality pair that delivers everything you expect, saves a ton of time and prevents the unnecessary headache of dealing with multiple returns. 

If you love music, but would rather not spend more than $300 on a single pair of ‘phones, this section is for you!

1. Audio Technica
2. Beats
3. 1More 
4. SoundMagic
5. Bose
6. B&O
7. Shure
8. V-Moda
9. Sony
10. Sennheiser

1. Audio Technica

Audio Technica first made their mark designing phonograph cartridges for turntables. After some success in that area, they began to branch out and explore other audio equipment. One of their most notable personal audio creations is the ATH-M50x. 

The M50x have gotten overwhelmingly positive feedback since their release, but they’re not the only model worth checking out. We reviewed two of their other models that are both equally (if not more) impressive than what some consider to be their ‘flagship’. 

If you can’t resist a solid performance coupled with a bargain value, it’s definitely worth taking a look at some of their other personal audio gear! 

Our Favorite Reviews:

• Audio Technica ATH M60x Review
• Audio Technica R70x Review

2. Beats

Despite some of the negative attention they’ve received in the past, we still think Beats are a solid option (for some people). In the audiophile community, Beats have gotten a bad rap since they aren’t exactly designed for critical listening.

Most of their models (especially in their earlier days) are known for a stronger bass response that some people love – and others don’t. Later releases from the company have seen pretty significant improvements, ranging from a more durable build to a sound profile that isn’t as divisive. 

Although there is still some debate about whether or not their models are a bit overpriced – one thing you can’t deny is their worldwide impact on the audio community! 

Our Favorite Over-Ear Review:

• Beats Studio Wireless Review

Our Favorite In-Ear Review:

• Beats X Wireless Review

3. 1More

1More hadn’t really been in the mainstream spotlight until they released their Triple Driver in-ears. “Hear More” is the company’s slogan and they definitely deliver on that promise. They have a pretty wide variety of styles to choose from including over-ear, in-ear, gaming headsets, and Bluetooth sports earphones. 

1More is considered by many notable review sites (including ours) to be one of the most promising breakout companies in this arena. Ultra-premium packaging, a futuristic build design, and most importantly, awesome sound quality are just a few words to describe their craftsmanship. 

If you’re not willing to spend upwards of $300 on a pair of in-ears, we highly recommend you browse the reviews below to see what they have to offer! 

Our Favorite In-Ear Reviews:

• 1More Triple Driver Review
• 1More Quad Driver Review

4. SoundMagic

The ability to craft high-performing in-ears that fit well into any budget is one task that SoundMagic excels at. Models like the highly-rated and reviewed E10 have earned them respect from both casual listeners and audiophiles. 

Although they’re still a relatively young company (founded in 2005), their drive to continue innovating based on consumer feedback they receive will continue to propel then into the spotlight. 

If you’re someone who loves affordable earbuds that won’t fall out of your ears every 5 minutes, you’ll definitely want to take a look at the review we linked to below! 

Our Favorite Review:

• SoundMagic E10 Review

5. Bose

Unless you’ve been living under a rock since 1964, you’ve at least heard of Bose. Chances are, you’ve probably experienced one of their speakers or headphones at some point. They’ve been able to cross barriers and earn a solid reputation in their field.

They make quality audio products that have found their way into cars, homes, and professional studios across the world. One of the accomplishments they’re most well-known for, is their knack at creating some of the best noise-cancelling over-ears that are well-loved by commuters and travelers everywhere.

Their equipment does tend to cost a bit more than some of the companies above, but most people agree that the extra comfort and performance is worth every penny! 

Our Favorite In-Ear Review:

• Bose QuietComfort 20 Review

6. B&O (Bang & Olufsen)

If you’ve ever spent any time browsing the selection of headphones on Amazon, Best Buy, or any other electronic retailer – you might’ve stumbled upon a pair of B&O ‘phones. Like Bose, they also specialize in manufacturing noise-cancelling headsets. 

Technically, they’re considered to be a ‘high-end’ audio company that has their hand in a few different pots at the same time.  B&O Play is one of their subsidiary companies whose primary focus is crafting beautiful wireless ‘phones and earbuds.

Their E8 true wireless earbuds are neck and neck with the competition, taking further steps towards a completely wire-free existence. Although they aren’t exactly giving their high-end equipment away, as the old adage goes: “You get what you pay for”. 

Our Favorite In-Ear (True Wireless) Review:

• Beoplay E8 Review

7. Shure

Shure is another company that makes a variety of audio equipment. Originally founded in 1925 as a radio parts kit supplier, they branched out and have become one of the most respected names in audio. 

They make IEMs and studio monitors that are easily among the best in the industry. IEMs like the Shure SE215 and SE315 remain a staple for anyone looking to bridge the gap between casual listening and audiophile-level performance. 

Studio monitors like the SRH440 were specifically designed for professional applications, although they can be enjoyed for regular at-home listening as well. If you’re on the lookout for an affordable studio monitor, take a look at our review below! 

Our Favorite Review:

• Shure SRH400 Review

8. V-Moda

Much like Shure, V-Moda is another great company to check out if you’ve tried a few others and still want more. Since their foundation in 2004, they’ve made a name for themselves based on a few different performance factors. 

For one, they craft personal audio gear with unprecedented durability put through rigorous and extensive testing. (You can almost literally put them through hell without having to worry.) Their second area of expertise lies in their extreme attention to the detail required for creating a true work of art in the form of in-ear, over-ear, and on-ear headphones.

On top of all that, they tune each pair to produce some of the most exciting playback you’ll ever experience. We consider them to be one of the best choices for the stage in between casual listening and becoming a full-blown audiophile! 

Our Favorite Over-Ear Review:

• V-Moda Crossfade LP2 Review

Our Favorite In-Ear Review:

• V Moda Zn Review

9. Sony

TVs, speakers, gaming consoles, laptops, and headphones are just a fraction of the spaces Sony specializes in. When it comes to noise-cancelling ‘phones, most people agree that there are two main competitors. Sony and Bose. Which one’s better? The answer almost completely boils down to personal preference. 

Although their noise cancelling earbuds could still use some improvement, their over-ear WH1000XM2 and WH1000XM3 are 2 of the industry leaders. Their logo is instantly recognizable and they consistently try to set a better standard with each new release. 

Whether you’re in the market for a studio monitor or noise-cancelling over-ear – Sony is a standout competitor that doesn’t seem to be going away anytime soon! 

Our Favorite Reviews:

• Sony WH1000XM2 Review
• Sony MDR 7506 Review

10. Sennheiser

Sennheiser is another well-established name in the audio world. Since their foundation in 1945, they’ve managed to create products that compete with both casual and higher-end competitors. Unlike many others, they’re able to craft audio gear that appeals to both worlds.

Headphones like the HD 4.40 and PXC 550 are 2 of their most well-received portable models. Both come equipped with an above-average wireless performance at a pretty affordable price point. At this point, Sennheiser is easily one of the most respected pillars of personal audio. 

If you need a new pair of portable over-ears or some wireless earbuds, browse one of the reviews below! 

Our Favorite Over-Ear Reviews:

• Sennheiser HD 4.4 BT Review
• Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Review

Our Favorite In-Ear Review:

• Sennheiser HD1 Free Review

Best Brands For Audiophiles

If you’re like most audiophiles, you probably have as much (if not more) fun testing new headphones as you do listening to the actual music. Many audiophiles are willing to go the extra mile and invest in the ‘best of the best’. You probably don’t mind dropping a nice chunk of change on a new pair (as long as the performance justifies the investment). 

Chances are, you’ll recognize at least one or two of the companies below. Some specialize in both ends of the spectrum and manufacture what would be considered ‘budget’ as well as offering a few more expensive high-end models. The bottom line is that each one targets the serious listener who will settle for nothing less than an absolutely outstanding performance! 

1. HIFIMAN
2. Beyerdynamic
3. Grado
4. Etymotic Research
5. Sennheiser
6. Audeze
7. Focal
8. MrSpeakers
9. ZMF
10. Stax

1. HIFIMAN

If you’re an audiophile, you know that HIFIMAN specializes in a very specific style of headphone. Two of their breakout planar magnetic models (the HE 400 & HE 400i) are among some of their most well-received. 

They’ve been awarded over 20 awards by many well-respected review sites and continue to remain a popular choice for audiophiles all over the world. Their main priority is driving the best sound quality possible into your ears. Each of their models features a unique design.

When you couple HIFIMAN’s unmistakable build with an extremely noteworthy sonic performance, they’re easily one of the best all-around open back manufacturers! 

Our Favorite Review:

• HIFIMAN HE 400i Review

Browse the entire collection at the Official HIFIMAN website. 

2. Beyerdynamic

Since their foundation in 1924, Beyerdynamic has managed to not only survive but thrive in the personal audio space. Most of their gear is manufactured in Germany and they consistently strive to uphold their rock-solid reputation. 

Much like Sennheiser, they also make quality gear that ranges from mid to high-end (although they don’t offer quite the same variety in price). Two of their stand-out open-back cans are the DT 770 and DT 990 Pro. 

They’re versatile enough to be used for both professional and non-professional applications. Those are just 2 of the most notable examples that highlight their mission to provide a premium and extremely comfortable listening experience. Take a look at the review below to learn more!

Our Favorite Review:

• Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro Review

3. Grado

Grado (also known as Grado Labs) builds every single pair of headphones by hand. Their knack for high-fidelity audio reproduction has garnered the attention of audio fans across the globe. They also have an unmistakable design and finish that you instantly recognize.

Although their hand-crafted ‘phones aren’t everyone’s cup of tea – you can’t deny the niche path they’ve carved out and tapped into. (Plus, who doesn’t enjoy having at least one beautifully hand-crafted pair to show off in their collection?)

If you’re a sucker for handmade audio gear with an equally impressive performance, we recommend you take a look at our review below! 

Our Favorite Review:

• Grado SR325e Headphones Review

4. Etymotic Research

Etymotic Research started out manufacturing hearing aids and have since displayed their expertise by crafting some of the best in-ear monitors around. They consider constructive feedback from consumers like us and aren’t afraid to make adjustments as needed.

After the release of their original flagship (the ER4SR IEMs), some listeners felt that they could use some improvement. They decided to use the feedback and came back with the ER4XR which have an extended bass response that some felt was previously lacking. 

If you’ve been on the lookout for some high-quality IEMs, Etymotic Research should, without a doubt, be at the top of your list! 

Our Favorite IEM Review:

• Etymotic Research ER4XR Review

5. Sennheiser

We briefly covered this company in the first section, but if you skipped ahead, you probably have a pretty good grasp on what Sennheiser is capable of. They easily succeed at making gear for the average consumer and definitely aren’t afraid to reach even higher.

To this day, many audiophiles refer to the HD600 as the ‘Gold Standard’ of reference cans. There aren’t very many companies that have a classic model that’s as popular today as it was 20 years ago. Audiophiles and studio professionals everywhere understand that Sennheiser will always have a solid foothold in the HiFi community.

If this is your first time hearing of the ‘Gold Standard’ for open-back reference cans, take a look at the review below to see what they’re all about! 

Our Favorite Review:

• Sennheiser HD600 Review

6. Audeze

Audeze first came about when its 2 founders realized that the materials they were using to make products for NASA would be perfect for designing headphones. The first-ever model they released was the LCD-1. 

Due to the overwhelmingly positive response it generated, they continued to innovate and have since released multiple variations of their original model. The waves they made are so powerful that they can’t be missed or overlooked and remain a strong presence at any audio convention, festival, or CanJam you’ll ever attend.

What makes them stand out? Each model they create houses proprietary planar magnetic drivers that combine multiple technologies, resulting in a completely unforgettable sonic experience!

Browse the entire flagship LCD collection at the Official Audeze website. 

7. Focal

“Listen Beyond” is Focal’s concise, but a promising mission statement. The French company has specialized in high-end audio equipment since 1979. The Focal Utopia cost upwards of $3,500 which earns them a spot among some of the most expensive over-ears available. 

Anyone who’s actually listened to the Focal Clear or Utopia will tell you that the asking price is absolutely appropriate considering their ultra-impressive sonic performance. The Utopia is widely regarded as being one of (if not the best) headphones your money can buy.

If you have a few thousand extra dollars to contribute towards your audio budget, it’d be well worth your time to consider Focal! 

Browse the entire collection at the Official Focal website. 

8. MrSpeakers

Although MrSpeakers also manufacture extremely high-end headphones, they offer a few options that are much more affordable. Make no mistake, their VOCE electrostatic cans usually retail for close to 3 grand!

They still hold true to the goal behind their foundation which is to create an audiophile performance that can be enjoyed by more than just a select few. Their ÆON Flow models cost a fraction of the VOCE without sacrificing quality. 

Their headphone pads are also favored by many listeners who enjoy replacing the stock pads with a much more comfortable upgrade. If you’re an audiophile on a tighter budget, we recommend saving up and trying the ÆON Flow. (You won’t be disappointed!)

Browse the entire collection at the Official MrSpeakers website. 

9. ZMF

If you like the idea of receiving a carefully-crafted (and appropriately-priced) work of art – you might want to consider ZMF. They offer an extremely personalized purchase process that allows you to ask questions 1-on-1 directly with the manufacturer. 

That way, you know exactly what you’re getting before the package arrives on your doorstep. Few companies exist that offer such a quality blend of artisan craftsmanship, audio performance, and a made to order pair of over-ears that sound as good as they look.

If you’ve made one too many dissatisfied returns in the past, we recommend trying the personalized approach that ZMF takes! 

Browse the lookbook on the Official ZMF website to see what we mean by a ‘work of art’. 

10. STAX

Decades ago, STAX was the first company to design and release an electrostatic headphone, which is just one of many reasons they’re among the most well-loved and highly-rated companies on this list. STAX doesn’t even like to call their creations headphones.

Instead, they refer to each model as an ‘earspeaker’, which still makes perfect sense. (In fact, it might make even more sense than calling them headphones.) Ever since they quite literally broke ground with their first release in 1960, STAX continues to make waves throughout the audiophile community. 

Much like a few other brands listed here, they also offer a fairly widely-priced selection of options that range from around $400 all the way up to $4,000. If you’re looking for the upgrade of a lifetime, take a look at the Official STAX Audio website here!

Are You Surprised? Did You See A Personal Favorite?!

We hope you had as much fun browsing as we did putting this list together. Now that you’ve made it to the end, what do you think? Were you surprised to see one of your personal favorites here? Do you think we left one-off that should’ve been included? 

Whether you discovered a new company to check out, or just want to add your two cents – leave a comment below and let us know what you think about the top 10 headphone brands! If you have any questions, feel free to ask away! We always do our best to respond within 24 hours and look forward to hearing from you!

Thanks for taking the time to browse our list, we hope you enjoyed! 

Before we get into the meat and potatoes of your question – yes, it does affect your listening experience (and in a pretty major way too). Throughout our brief guide, we’ll do our best to explain this commonly-used term in a way that’s simple and easy to understand! 

We’ll also recommend 3 different testing methods that you can easily try for yourself at home! Are you ready to learn one of the most popular terms in the personal audio world? Let’s get started!

What Is A Headphone Clamp?

The Most Basic Definition In A Nutshell 

Here’s the most basic definition for this term (and what it means at its core):

“The amount of pressure your cans apply to the area around (or on) your ears and to the top of your head.”

While this is the most basic definition – the amount of clamping pressure isn’t the only factor to consider. Also, keep in mind that this term only applies to circumaural (over-ear) and supra-aural (on-ear) cans. Read the section below to see how else it affects your listening experience!

How Does It Affect Your Listening Experience?

As you probably know, the pressure you feel when you’re wearing ‘phones will also have a major effect on other things like:

• freedom of movement
• long-lasting comfort
• detecting a high vs. low-quality build

Let’s take a closer look at each one below to see just how important each area really is!

Freedom of Movement

For example, if your cans sit very loosely on your head, you’ll have to worry about making sure you don’t bend down or turn your head too fast. Finding the right balance between too much and not enough pressure is usually the happy medium you want to look for. 

This area is especially important if you plan on using your new cans for working out or running. The ability to have more freedom of movement is absolutely essential for active use. 

Long-Lasting Comfort – Too Much vs. Not Enough Pressure

Listening to music using headphones can start to become a chore if your cans apply too much pressure (or not enough). In the worst cases, you can end up being more worried about constantly adjusting their fit, instead of just enjoying your favorite music.

Detecting a High vs. Low-Quality Build

Using some of the testing methods below can be used to help you determine how well-built your cans really are. In most cases, ear cups that loosely flop around or a headband that constantly slips without you adjusting it yourself can point towards a cheaper build. 

How can you find the right balance if you don’t already own the pair you want to test? 

What’s The First Testing Method?

One of the easiest testing methods is to wear your cans for at least one or two hours without taking any breaks. If you find yourself constantly reaching up to hold both ear cups and pull them away from your head, it’s usually not a good sign.

Are You Constantly Reaching Up To Make Adjustments?

It’s also usually not a great sign if you feel the need to reach up and remove one of the ear cups to give your ears some resting time. That being said, both examples do present a few exceptions. Excessive pressure isn’t always to blame for making readjustments. 

If your earpads are made of genuine leather or another material that doesn’t provide the best ventilation, it would make perfect sense to let your ears breathe. 

On the other hand, if you feel the need to pull both ear cups away from your ears because you feel them pressing down on your ear lobes too much – excessive clamp is usually to blame. 

Ear Cups Rubbing Against Your Ears

If the ear cups start to rub against your ears it’s usually caused by one of two things. 

1. Ear cup padding is too thin
2. Too much clamping pressure

In the first example, it’s usually pretty easy to simply replace both ear pads to add more cushion. (Easy, that is, unless your cans don’t have replaceable ear pads.) 

If you feel that the pads provide adequate cushion and room inside for your specific ear size/shape – it may be caused by the pressure. Depending on which pair of cans you’re using – some will allow you to hold both ear cups and bend them outwards (without causing any cracking or terrible creaking sounds).

You could look at it like the breaking in the bill of a baseball hat. Most hats come with a completely flat bill by default and require you to curve it yourself – (unless you prefer to keep it flat, of course).

In most cases, performing a similar action with a well-built pair of cans will instantly help alleviate some of the discomfort. The reason that it works pretty well, in many cases, is because you are essentially stretching out the headband material like you would a sore muscle. 

Possible Causes For Excessive Headband Discomfort

This brings us to the headband itself. Although headband designs are constantly improving to fit (and look) better – there will almost always be minor issues to address. One of the most common issues most people have in this area deals with even weight distribution. 

Some ‘phones have a headband that’s shaped like a canoe. Others have the more standard singular strip with padding underneath. Some cans don’t even have the traditional headband and instead utilize a hybrid design (similar to the image below). How does the actual shape of the headband affect clamping pressure? 

Well, if your headband has the standard singular strip with padding design – that means that the entire weight of your cans will be resting on a single spot at the top of your head. If they also have excessive clamping pressure, you will usually notice 3 points of discomfort. 

• left ear (lobe or outer area)
• right ear (lobe or outer area)
• top of your head (where the headband rests)

This is one of the main reasons why some headphones cost more than you might think they should. The extra attention to detail and choice of build materials both play a major role when it comes to creating a long-lasting, comfortable pair of cans. 

Cans like the Philips Fidelio X2 use one of those hybrid designs we briefly mentioned above. They have what’s called a 3D mesh hammock that sits slightly suspended underneath a single standard headband. This creates a super comfy and evenly-distributed wearing experience. (They also happen to feature a great balance of just the right amount of clamping pressure.) 

After you’ve tried wearing your cans for an hour or longer to see if you notice any of the 3 points of discomfort mentioned above, here’s another great method that takes less time! 

What’s The Second Testing Method?

The only thing the second testing method requires is you and your cans. You can try it with both new and old ‘phones that you may have had for a while. Are you ready? Hold one ear cup in your hand and let the opposite earcup dangle in the air. 

Now, lift your hand (holding the ear cup) up and down ever so gently. As you watch the dangling ear cup bobbing up and down – pay attention to how much ‘give’ they have. If you notice that they have more ‘give’ and flop around more than you thought they would – this is usually a sign of cans with less clamping pressure.

Excessive Movement & Creaking Sounds

If the dangling ear cup barely moves – that usually means they will apply more pressure around/on your ears and head when you’re actually wearing them. 

You’ll also want to listen for any major creaking sounds. If your cans start to squeak like mice when you’re using this method – that’s usually another sign that your cans have less clamp. It’s also one of the most popular and time-tested methods for determining how well-built they are. 

Although there are some higher-end headphones (like the Monoprice Monolith M1060) that have more ‘give’ or make minor creaking sounds when you put them through a test like this – most of the time, it’s the sign of a cheaper build. 

Now that you’ve learned two of the main testing methods, take a look at the final method for one last quick test!

What’s The Third Testing Method?

The third method is the most basic and straightforward test. While the third and final method doesn’t necessarily test clamping pressure – it’s an easy way to see how well your cans hold their shape. 

To test this aspect of their build design, all you have to do is take your ‘phones off and place them on your table or desk. Leave them resting on the desk then go do something else for a while (30 minutes or so is usually enough time). When you come back, check to see if they’re still in the same position you left them in.

If the headband is at a lower adjustment, or the ‘phones themselves are a slightly contorted – this could mean a few different things:

1. Their build materials aren’t very sturdy
2. There is a good chance that they’ll apply less pressure around your ears
3. You might want to consider storing them on a quality headphone stand

Although most cans hold their shape fairly well while resting, there’s always an exception. Regardless of how well your cans hold their shape, it’s usually recommended that you store them in their carrying case or on a solid stand. Both storage methods go a long way towards preserving their quality (especially right out of the box). 

Once again, this method is an easy way to test things like durability which may also point towards gauging how much clamping pressure your cans might have. Now that you’ve learned 3 easy methods for testing your cans’ wearing pressure, you might want to know which method will give you the best results!

Which Test Will Give You The Best Results?

Since there isn’t any scientific calculation (at least, not to our knowledge) for gauging wearing pressure – ultimately, how they feel when you’re wearing them is what matters the most.

Since these testing methods aren’t exactly a perfect science, it’s hard to say which method will give you the best results. In most cases, however, the first two methods are usually the best at producing the most accurate results.

Either way, without a doubt, after you’ve tried all 3, you’ll have a much better idea about what’s causing any major discomfort you might be experiencing! We all enjoy having a comfortable listening experience, but we don’t always exactly agree on how to achieve that. 

This is where your personal wearing preference also plays a major role. If you’re someone who prefers a more secure and stable fit – you’ll probably enjoy cans with a stronger clamp. If you’re the opposite and would rather have more ‘give’ to your cans – wearing ‘phones with lighter clamping pressure would be more ideal. 

What Do You Think? – How Did We Do?

Now that you’ve reached the end of our brief guide, what do you think? Did we do a good job or do you still have a few questions that you need to be answered? If anything we covered here was unclear or hard to understand, let us know by asking a question below!

If you think we did a great job explaining this term, hopefully, the next time someone asks “What is headphone clamp?” – you have the answer! Understanding simple terms like this will not only expand the library of terms you have stored away – but will also help you in the future when you’re looking for a new pair of cans! 

The next time you read a review or watch an unboxing, you’ll know exactly what they’re talking about! We hope you enjoyed reading through our short guide! If you did, feel free to share it with your followers on your favorite social media platform! Thanks again for stopping by to learn, we hope to see you here again!

Sonic Elevation: Ride The Waves. 

“What Is A Headphone Driver?”, you ask. We’ll explore that question and take a closer look at why it matters. A pair of headphones without its drivers would be like a car without a driver. They would just sit there collecting dust. The car wouldn’t move an inch – and the headphones wouldn’t be able to make a sound. (Some models might look pretty cool as paperweights, but we want to hear the music, right?)

Are you ready to learn about this extremely important headphone component, how it works, and why it’s necessary? Let’s dive into the sea of information and see how they affect and produce the audio waves we all love and enjoy!

What Is A Headphone Driver

A headphone is made up of several components. Each internal piece that lives inside your earbuds or the ear cups of your ‘phones works like clockwork to produce audio. The driver’s main purpose is to convert an electrical signal into the sound of your music. 

Like the car analogy we used above – without the driver, there would be no sound. You’ve probably seen something like this:

• “40 mm and/or 50 mm drivers”  next to the headphone specifications that you have your eye on

The “mm” (millimeters) represents the size of the driver that’s in each ear cup. In this case, size does matter. The size and type of driver will play a significant role in producing different levels of sound quality. Let’s take a look at the different types and how they affect your sonics. 

What Are The Different Types Of Drivers? 

1. Dynamic (aka Moving Coil)
2. Planar Magnetic
3. Balanced Armature
4. Electrostatic
5. Magnetostriction (aka Bone Conduction)

Now, we’ll go over how each driver type operates, what kinds of headphones most commonly use each type and the pros/cons of each. 

1. Dynamic (aka Moving Coil) – Most Commonly Used

Dynamic drivers are made of 3 main components: a neodymium magnet, voice coil, and a diaphragm (attached to the voice coil). The lightweight neodymium magnet activates the voice coil – which then causes the diaphragm to vibrate. This vibration creates the sound waves that manifest as your favorite song or album. 

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of dynamic drivers:

Pros:

• Doesn’t require very much power output for louder volume
• Less-expensive to make, therefore more budget-friendly
• Creates a powerful bass response 

Cons:

• Tends to give out faster (especially in cheap headphones)
• Can distort your audio at higher volumes

2. Planar Magnetic – Usually Found In High-End Headphones

Planar magnetic drivers create sound using a similar mechanism to dynamic drivers. Instead of activating the voice coil – both magnets (2 in each ear cup) absorb the electric signal and cause the diaphragm (in between both magnets) to vibrate. Since the electrical signal is absorbed by a larger surface (rather than a single voice coil) it creates a louder, fuller sound. 

This type of driver is pretty uncommon in the mainstream headphone world. You’ll find planar magnetic drivers in high-end, expensive cans that can cost well over $2,000 in some cases. One reason for their extra high price tag is because it takes more materials to make a pair. That’s due to the housing of 2 magnets (instead of 1), and the extra outside materials that encase the driver units. 

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of planar magnetic drivers:

Pros:

• Extremely high fidelity audio reproduction
• Low distortion at higher volumes
• Full, powerful bass response

Cons:

• Usually more expensive
• Build design is bulkier (to fit both magnets in each ear cup)

3. Balanced Armature – Commonly Seen In Earbuds/IEMs

Since balanced armature drivers are smaller in size, they tend to be most common in IEMs and earbuds. They are also more expensive than ‘phones with dynamic drivers. Here’s why: 

• Each ear features a mini arm (armature) inside the voice coil
• The mini arm and voice coil have magnets on either side (2 total)
• A “drive rod” (attached to the armature) moves back and forth to push the air/audio waves out, into your ear
• Sometimes each ear has both dynamic and balanced armature driver types

Here’s a brief rundown of their function. An electrical signal is sent to the voice coil, the armature becomes magnetized and both magnets (surrounding the voice coil) create a powerful magnetic field, creating audio waves. The drive rod (attached to the armature) then moves back and forth and pushes the audio waves out and into your ears. 

This complex process leads to the creation of a balanced, accurate wave of sound that makes your music sound even better. If that seems a little confusing, here’s a short video explaining the full process with some easy-to-follow visuals:

Sometimes, IEMs will have both a dynamic and balanced armature driver in each ear (which is another reason why they’re more expensive – and why they produce hi-res sound quality).

Basically, the extra magnets/components and occasional dynamic/armature combination + the ultra-compact size make them a top choice for musicians, audiophiles, and audio professionals. 

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of balanced armature drivers:

Pros:

• Well-balanced sound profile
• Ultra-compact build (making them perfect for on-the-go/portable listening)
• Provides passive noise isolation (due to the in-ear canal fit)

Cons:

• More expensive (especially custom-molded IEMs)
• Can be hard to find a pair of in-ear/earbuds that fit your ears perfectly

4. Electrostatic – Commonly Seen In High-End Open Back ‘Phones

Electrostatic drivers utilize static electricity to produce high-quality audio. Instead of using magnets to cause vibration (and the resulting sound) – two opposing electrical currents vibrate a thin membrane. 

This results in more accurate sound reproduction. They usually perform better in the upper range of frequencies. Your highs and mids will be crisper, but the bass won’t be as powerful.

Electrostatic drivers aren’t very common, although you can find them in higher-end open back headphones. That’s also part of the reason that open-back headphones produce some of the best “true-to-live” sounds. (You’re starting to see how specific driver types play an important role in the type of audio playback, right?)

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of electrostatic drivers:

Pros:

• Pristine highs and mids
• “True-to-life” audio playback (if you love the live concert experience)
• Accurate sound, but subdued volume

Cons:

• No heavy, powerful bass response
• More expensive and hard to find

5. Magnetostriction (aka Bone Conduction) – “Bonephones”

Magnetostriction drivers (aka Bone Conduction) drivers act on a mechanism that bypasses your eardrum. The concept was invented by Beethoven (since he was practically deaf) when he attached a rod to his piano, stuck the rod in his mouth – and was able to hear his piano playing. (Pretty ingenious right?)

Bonephones (they’re not as morbid as they might sound, no pun intended) sit in front of your ears, rather than inside your ears. The sound is created by sending electrical currents into the headphones. Then, the audio waves vibrate a bone in your skull called the cochlea. 

The cochlea looks similar to a snail shell. When audio waves cause it to vibrate – it sends a signal to the stereocilia. The stereocilia (inner ear hair cells) start to move and sends those bone vibrations to the brain, so it can process the signals and you can hear your music. (Have you ever wondered where the term “stereo” came from? *Hint hint, wink wink, nod nod).

Let’s take a look at the pros and cons of magnetostriction (aka bone conduction) drivers:

Pros:

• Ability to hear ambient noise (passing cars, etc.)
• Especially helpful for those with partial hearing loss
• Great for roadside biking, running, or working out

Cons:

• Sound won’t be as full or powerful
• Semi-limited practical use (for most)

Rest Easy, Now You Know What Each Driver Type Means!

Now that you’ve read through this guide, you can answer your original question of “What Is A Headphone Driver?“. The days of stressing out over driver types are over. You know what each of the 5 different types is, what kind of headphone they’re most commonly found in, and the distinctions between them.

The analogy that we kicked it off with should make a lot more sense now. Just like a car without a driver behind the wheel, your headphones need something to literally drive the waves of audio into your ears. 

The next time you’re ready to look for a new pair of headphones, you can navigate the complicated spec sheets like a true expert. You know everything you need to about this aspect of ‘phones. To see more helpful information that you’ll want to know before buying a new pair, take a look at our Headphone Buying Guide. 

I hope you found this information helpful and enjoyed reading it! What kind of headphone do you think you’ll try next? Which type sounds the most appealing? If you have a question, feel free to ask below. I’ll do my best to respond as quickly as I can. Thanks for stopping by!

Sonic Elevation: Ride The Waves. 

Basically, the frequency response is the term used to describe the specific sound signature of your headphones. In other words, some headphones have an extremely well-balanced response, and some emphasize lower or higher frequencies. 

This is why some pairs of headphones produce a stronger bass that makes your skull rumble (e.g. Beats, certain V-Moda models, etc.) Others reproduce the audio waves in a way that spreads the frequencies out more evenly.

Keep reading to see how it can have an effect on the way your music sounds in your headphones. We’ll go over the basics that you’ll need to know to and why it matters. 

What Is Frequency Response? & Our Ears

The human ear can only pick up on certain ranges of audio waves (unless you’re Wolverine or Spider Man).

Sound waves are pretty incredible and can even be used to manipulate the environment and the human body. Here’s a short video that’ll demonstrate how powerful sound waves can be:

You can see how powerful audio waves can be. Let’s dive a little deeper and see what sounds at each stage of the human audio spectrum we can and can’t audibly detect. The average human ear will respond to audio waves within the range of about 20 Hz- 20 kHz.

Frequencies At 20 Hz:

When it comes to headphones, you won’t have to worry as much about being affected by waves in the audio spectrum seen in the above video (but it is pretty cool, right)? 

Most of us will only feel frequencies in the 20 Hz range, rather than actually hearing them. The audio waves lower than 20 Hz are called “infrasounds”. Infrasounds are studied by people who monitor the strength of earthquakes and the field is called “Infrasonics”. 

The study of sonic waves within the 20 Hz and below range is also used to study the way our human hearts work as well as the movement of rock formations. 

Here are some other examples of sounds that are heard in the 20 Hz and below range:

• infrasonic elephant sounds (around 14-16 Hz)
• the sound of our heartbeat (usually between 14-150 Hz)

Frequencies At 20 kHz:

Here are some examples of sounds that are heard in the approx. 20 kHz range:

• the “mosquito tone”
• the sound a CRT TV makes while running (most of us probably don’t have one of these anymore)

Frequencies Above 20 kHz:

When bats are using echolocation, they’re operating in a range that more than doubles our response range (about 45-50 kHz). That’s why we need special equipment to detect the signals being emitted by bats. (It also adds to our fascination with Batman.)

What Happens As We Get Older?

As we get older, our hearing starts to deteriorate. The upper ranges becoming less and less audible are usually the first signs that you’re hearing isn’t as good as it was when you were younger. (It’s all part of the natural progression, we could never communicate with bats anyways, right?)

It’s normal for this to happen to most of us, usually starting around the age of 25, depending on how loud you listen to music or if you’re a musician who uses IEMs on stage.

Human Audio Spectrum Demonstration: 

The video below demonstrates the human ear’s audio spectrum (be prepared to adjust the volume if necessary, especially towards the end):

How Does This Affect Your Headphones?

Now that we’ve covered some examples of the different ranges of audio waves, let’s see how it affects your headphones. Some companies will use an extremely wide frequency range to sell you on an expensive pair of headphones that you may not need.

Often times, they have a range that widely exceeds our ear’s ability to detect. (If you’re a bass-head, you’ll want to pay special attention to this next part.)

Maybe your hearing is world-class, but chances are you’ll be fine within the average range (or a little bit wider). While you most likely won’t be able to hear the ultra-low frequencies, you will be able to feel them. 

This is where it might be worth a few extra dollars and research to invest in a more expensive pair with a wider response. 

Where Does It Really Matter?

All this mumbo jumbo will really start to make a big difference when you take the various genres into account. Depending on the type of music you primarily listen to – you’ll want to consider how this will come into play. I personally like to use different pairs of ‘phones for listening to different genres of music. 

When a new hip-hop or dubstep album is released, I’ll choose a different pair than when I sit down to listen to a new alternative or metal album. Not only does the genre make a big difference, but additional gear can also have an effect.

Will Using A Headphone Amp Boost My Frequency Response?

When you start adding additional components to your personal audio setup, like a portable headphone amp, they enable your audio response to be even further enhanced. This is why adding a portable amp/DAC can be a great, fairly inexpensive way to take your audio to the next level. 

If you already own a solid, quality pair of ‘phones, you’d be amazed at the difference that adding an amp can make. Instead of feeling slight rumblings around your head where the ear cups sit – you’ll feel a much stronger reverberation that will blow your mind. 

How Do You Know What Your Headphones Can Handle?

Most headphones that you buy will come with an instruction manual and spec sheet. Somewhere on there, it should list the frequency response for that specific pair of headphones. Before you buy a new pair of headphones, you can do a quick Google search with the name of the model you’re interested in + “frequency response”. 

It’s especially important to remember that if you really want to optimize your listening experience, that you keep your genre of choice in mind before making a decision. 

In general, I recommend that you look for a pair as close to 20 Hz – 20 kHz. When you listen with a pair of ‘phones in that general range, most genres you listen to will sound great. 

The only time it might be a good idea to slightly deviate from that recommendation is if you want to experiment with your ears and music. For bass-heads it could be fun to mess around with it a little bit and find the sweet spot. If you just need a pair that’ll play the music you love, experimenting isn’t your top priority so it’s safe to stick to the basics. 

Did You Catch The Wave?

I hope your initial question of “What Is A Frequency Response?” was answered. We didn’t get into every aspect of how it affects things other than headphones – but that was the goal. 

Now, you should have enough information to help you navigate this aspect of headphones when you’re ready to look for a brand new pair.

Maybe as technology advances, someone will invent a device that can extend the human ear’s audio range, and we’ll be able to communicate with bats… Until then, we can do our due diligence and find a pair that fits in our budget and set of needs. 

Thanks for stopping by and tuning in, I hope you enjoyed this post! If you want to leave a comment or ask a question, feel free to drop one below.

If you feel like you might want to revisit this page for later, feel free to add it to your bookmarks. 

Sonic Elevation: Ride The Waves.