For those who appreciate the sound of classical music, there is something very special about the quality of sound that can only be achieved by listening to high-quality headphones.
Classical recordings often require more space (both in the musical and stereo dimensions) than other genres such as rock, pop, or hip hop.
Hence we have put forth a guide on the best headphones for classical music enthusiasts.
Headphones for classical music have a number of specifications that must be met, many headphones will have a relatively simple design.
The reason for this is that classical music doesn’t need the same level of sound isolation that other genres do.
This is because classical music relies on a lot of dynamics and variations in tone.
Table of Contents
Buying Guide
When it comes to headphones for classical music, the specifications that you want to look at are as follows:
Headphone Driver:
A headphone driver can be described as a small loudspeaker unit. Headphone drivers use a number of technologies such as moving coil and planar magnetic. The former is more suited to delivering the most accurate sound reproduction, while the latter is better suited for producing a wider range of frequencies.
Sensitivity:
The sensitivity of a headphone is an important factor that one must consider when buying a headphone for classical music. The sensitivity of a headphone can easily be described as the sound at which a given headphone will produce 1 milliwatt of power.
Frequency Range:
The frequency range of a “classical” headphone is very important because it will often determine the amount of sound that you will get. Frequency ranges of 20 hertz to 20,000 hertz are commonly considered to be ideal for classical music listening.
5 Best Headphones for Classical Music
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. AKG Pro Audio K702 Over-Ear, Open-Back, Flat-Wire, Reference Studio Headphones,Black
- Over-ear design for maximum wearing comfort for long work sessions
- Sophisticated open technology for spacious and airy sound without compromise
- Patented Varimotion two-layer diaphragm for improved high-frequency range and better performance at low frequencies
- Unique flat-wire voice coil for higher sensitivity, better impluse and treble response
- Specially shaped 3D-foam ear pads for optimum fit and ease of use
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The AKG K702 is the number one recommended headphone for classical music. All things considered, the headphone is not only designed well but it boasts of certain technical specifications that are quite impressive.
Pros:
- The headphone is lightweight and great for long periods of time usage.
- Has a smooth, extended, and extremely accurate sound.
- The headphone has a good frequency range, it can reproduce frequencies from 20 hertz to 20,000 hertz.
Cons:
- The headphone doesn’t have a very good bass, this could be attributed to its closed-back design. The bass isn’t substantial enough for classical music.
2. Audio-Technica ATH-MSR7GM SonicPro Over-Ear High-Resolution Audio Headphones, Gun Metal Gray
- Designed to reproduce Hi-Res Audio, allowing you to hear your music the way it was intended
- Exclusive 45 mm True Motion Drivers improve transient response and minimize sound distortion for rich, detailed audio reproduction
- Features multi-layered air damping technology for extended mid-to-low frequency response
- Housings constructed of an aluminum/magnesium mix provide a lightweight, rigid structure that reduce unwanted resonance
- Three precisely placed vents within the layers work to control air flow and improve dynamics
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Audio-Technica is another prominent brand when it comes to headphones for classical music. The award-winning ATH-MSR7GM is the second best headphone on our list. The headphone has received several positive reviews for its sound quality.
Pros:
- The ATHMSR7GM has an open back design , which allows the listener to experience more accurate audio frequencies.
- It uses 40 millimeter dome drivers that deliver a very deep bass response. This is a good thing considering that bass is one of the critical aspects of classical music.
- The headphone has a relatively decent soundstage.
Cons:
- The headphones don’t isolate a lot of external noise, this is because it doesn’t have a closed back design. This can be beneficial if you need to keep tabs on your surroundings while listening to music while doing something else, but it could be inconvenient for some people.
3. Sennheiser PXC 550 Wireless – NoiseGard Adaptive Noise Cancelling, Bluetooth Headphone with Touch Sensitive Control and 30-Hour Battery Life
- Bluetooth 4.2 wireless technology in an ergonomically designed lightweight, comfortable and collapsible travel headset perfect for travel....
- NoiseGard adaptive noise cancellation ensures superior sound quality in every environment. Impedance:Active 490 Ohm/ Passive 46 Ohm
- Intuitive user control and convenience thanks for voice prompts, touch controls, NFC pairing, smart pause and automatic on/off
- Triple microphone array delivers business class communications with exceptional vocal clarity. Sennheiser sound signature quality with selective sound...
- The PXC 550 wireless is fully compatible with CapTune, sennheiser's premium quality music player and powerful sound tuning app to perfectly adjust the...
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Sennheiser is a well-known brand when it comes to headphones for classical music. The Sennheiser PXC 550 is one of the most popular models out there. The headphone has received very positive reviews and we highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates classical music and wants to get a great pair of headphones.
Pros:
- The headphone has a lightweight and yet durable build that should withstand regular use for many years to come. It can be used at both work or at home.
- The headphone can be used either with Bluetooth adapters or corded. It has a built-in amplifier and DAC. This means that you can make use of the headphone to play high definition music files such as FLAC and WMA files.
- The headphone has a touch sensitive control that makes it very easy to operate while wearing it. It also has a number of other controls such as mute, volume adjustment, previous and next tracks, and power on/off.
Cons:
- The headphone is relatively costly when compared to other models.
4. Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones, Black
- Advanced build quality and engineering
- 40 millimeter drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils
- Tuned for enhanced detail, with excellent mid-range definition
- Circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments
- Convenient single-side cable exit
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Audio-Technica ATHM30x is an older model that has received wonderful reviews for its sound quality. It also boasts of an adjustable headband that ensures maximum comfort for long periods of time.
Pros:
- The headphone has a great frequency range from 20 hertz to 20,000 hertz, this makes it suitable for classical music use.
- The headphone has a good soundstage and extended bass response.
- The headphone has a very good build quality.
Cons:
- The headphone doesn’t have a closed back design. This means that other people might hear your music if you’re listening to it in a public place such as an office or library.
5. Philips X2HR Fidelio Over Ear Headphone, Black
- High Resolution audio with 50mm high power drivers
- Acoustic open-back design
- Breathable velour cushions
- Memory foam ear pads
- 3.5mm to 6.3mm adaptor included.Connectivity Technology: Wired
Last update on 2024-04-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Philips X2HR is the cheapest headphone on our list. Despite its low budget, the headphone is still of great value. It has received very positive ratings for its sound quality.
Pros:
- The headphone has a heavy build that makes it very durable. It can be used throughout the day without incurring any damage.
- The headphone has a good soundstage that complements the sound of classical music.
- The headphone has a good soundstage and clear sound.
Cons:
- The Philips X2HR doesn’t have a lot of technical specifications that could be described as impressive.
Conclusion:
Classical music is one of the oldest types of music still being produced today. It is nice to listen to it using headphones because they produce a better sound than standard speakers.
By choosing the right pair of headphones, you can easily listen to your favorite classical music tracks and enjoy them to their fullest. Try out a few models above and you’ll end up with a good pair of headphones for classical music.
FAQ:
Q: What is the best wireless headset for music?
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