Best Headphones under €200 for studio monitoring

Best Pick

Audio-Technica ATH-R50X

81.6 Studio Score
over-ear45mm
Why we recommend this

Fully open-back 45mm drivers produce a wide, realistic soundstage with extended bass and accurate midrange, all in a 207g lightweight design for lasting comfort. Its durable construction includes two detachable cables with twist-lock connectors and a 6.3mm adapter, ideal for critical listening. Best suited for studio engineers mixing or mastering stereo and immersive formats.

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Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

74.3 Studio Score
over-earWired45mm
Why we recommend this

The 45mm dynamic drivers deliver a 15Hz-28kHz frequency range, making these closed-back monitors a reliable tool with a 63.6/100 studio score. This limited-edition ENSO variant stands out with custom sumi ink brushstroke engravings on the rings and headband, paired with a chance to win an exclusive furoshiki cloth accessories kit. Best for studio monitoring beginners who value functional audio performance and a collectible, art-driven unboxing experience.

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Audio-Technica M-Series ATH-M50xBT2

72.4 Studio Score
over-earWireless45mm50h
Why we recommend this

Proprietary 45mm drivers and a dedicated amplifier deliver the same studio-reference sound as the wired ATH-M50x, while a 50-hour battery and 10-minute quick-charge give 3 hours. Multipoint Bluetooth pairs two devices simultaneously, and beamforming mics with noise suppression ensure clear calls; EQ adjustments are customizable in the app and saved directly to the headphones. Best for home-studio producers and audiophiles seeking the M50x’s flat response in wireless form for critical listening, not for commuting due to weak passive isolation.

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Audio-Technica R-Series ATH-R30x

71.4 Studio Score
over-earWired40mm
Why we recommend this

The 40mm drivers and open-back design deliver a wide, detailed soundstage with minimal distortion, making the ATH-R30X a strong entry-level reference headphone. Its 210-gram weight and velour earpads provide lasting comfort for extended mixing sessions, while the simple, tuning-light transducer design offers natural clarity. This headphone is best for emerging audio engineers and home studio users who need accurate monitoring without a high price tag.

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Audio-Technica ATH-S300BT Wireless Over-Ear

68.7 Studio Score
over-earWirelessANC40mm90h
Why we recommend this

Up to 90 hours of battery life (60 with ANC) and digital hybrid noise cancellation through 40mm dynamic drivers make the Audio-Technica ATH-S300BT a standout for all-day listening. Weighing just 258 grams and folding flat, these headphones offer a comfortable, portable design suited for frequent travel and daily commutes. They’re best for budget-focused commuters who need exceptional battery endurance and comfortable wear, though call quality is notably weak.

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Audio-Technica SonicPro Over-Ear

53 Studio Score
over-earWired53mm
Why we recommend this

The 53mm drivers and bass-reflex port deliver robust low-end reproduction, while the closed-back design and 105dB sensitivity provide the isolation needed for detailed monitoring. Supreme comfort from the contoured earpads and self-adjusting headband makes these a durable, long-session workhorse at a budget-friendly price. These headphones are best for aspiring musicians and podcasters who need reliable, flat-response monitoring for tracking and mixing without breaking the bank.

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Audio-Technica ATH-M50XSTS XLR StreamSet Streaming

51.9 Studio Score
over-earWired45mm
Why we recommend this

The 45mm drivers deliver an extended 15–28,000 Hz frequency response for accurate monitoring, and the cardioid condenser boom mic captures clean, noise-free voice with excellent off-axis rejection. Two included earpad sets—one for isolation, one for breathability—sustain comfort across long sessions, while the robust build withstands daily studio use. This wired headset is best for streamers and podcasters who need precise monitoring and broadcast-quality mic performance in a closed-back design.

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Audio-Technica ATH-M20x

42.5 Studio Score
over-earWired40mm
Why we recommend this

The 40mm drivers with rare earth magnets deliver a flat, accurate frequency response tuned for tracking and mixing. Its lightweight, over-ear design with plush cushioning provides long-wearing comfort during extended studio sessions. This is a practical tool for entry-level musicians and podcasters needing reliable, wired monitoring without signal processing.

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Best Headphones under €500 for studio monitoring

Best Pick

Audio-Technica ATH-R70XA

83.5 Studio Score
over-earWired45mm
Why we recommend this

The custom 45mm drivers deliver a pure, uncolored sound directly from the transducer with a 5-40,000 Hz frequency response, avoiding acoustic resonance for minimized distortion. At just 199 grams, the redesigned headband and breathable open-back earcups provide a featherlight fit that virtually disappears during long sessions. This headphone is best for mixing and mastering engineers who require an accurate, spacious soundstage for critical, detail-oriented work.

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Audio-Technica ATH-M60x

69.3 Studio Score
on-earWired45mm
Why we recommend this

With 45mm large-aperture drivers delivering a 15Hz–28kHz frequency response and 102dB sensitivity, this closed-back on-ear monitor provides accurate audio with minimal bleed. Its lightweight 200g build and memory foam earpads ensure all-day comfort, while three detachable cables (1.2-3.0m coiled, 3.0m straight, 1.2m straight) support varied studio setups. It’s best for audio engineers and musicians needing isolated, precise monitoring in recording and mixing sessions, not for calls or casual listening.

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Audio-Technica ATH-M70X

69.1 Studio Score
over-earWired45mm
Why we recommend this

Its proprietary 45mm drivers deliver a flat 5Hz-40kHz frequency response for precise studio monitoring. The fold-flat design and detachable, durable ear pads add genuine portability and long-wear comfort for critical listening sessions. These headphones are best for audio engineers and mixers who need an uncolored reference to dissect dense, multi-layered tracks.

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Audio-Technica ATH-A990Z

51.9 Studio Score
over-earWired53mm
Why we recommend this

Proprietary 53mm drivers with OFC bobbin-wound voice coils deliver Hi-Res Audio up to 45kHz, while the lightweight aluminum housing and Double Air Damping System ensure deep, controlled bass with minimal resonance. The unique 3D wing support system and premium earpads provide a comfortable fit for long sessions, complemented by a durable 3.0m cloth-wrapped cable. These closed-back headphones are best for studio monitoring and critical listening where isolation and detailed transient response are required.

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Best Headphones under €900 for studio monitoring

Best Pick

Audio-Technica ATH-WP900

63.8 Studio Score
over-earWired53mm
Why we recommend this

Its flame-finished maple housing and 53mm drivers deliver a uniquely natural, resonant sound signature in a lightweight 243g design. The included balanced 4.4mm cable unlocks higher fidelity from compatible sources, complementing the premium wood build. These headphones are best for home listeners seeking a portable, high-resolution wired experience with a distinct aesthetic.

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No Headphones under €2,000 yet. See our top picks under €900

No Headphones found in this category. See our top picks under €900