Our Five Most-Recommended Headphones for Podcasting
A good pair of headphones is one of the most underrated tools in podcasting. Reference headphones let you hear your recording exactly as your listeners will — catching background noise, proximity issues, and anything else that needs fixing before your episode goes live. Here are the five pairs we recommend most.
If you want the full setup breakdown including headphones, microphones, and cameras across every budget, our Equipment & Setup Deep-Dive covers everything in detail.
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x ~ $50 · Closed-Back
The ATH-M20x is our go-to starter recommendation. Clean, accurate sound at a price that makes it accessible for any new podcaster. If you're just getting started and need a reliable pair of monitoring headphones without spending a lot, this is the one.
AKG K92 ~ $70 · Closed-Back
The AKG K92 is a strong step up for those who want a more refined listening experience. Comfortable during long recording sessions, with replaceable earcups that extend the lifespan well beyond cheaper options. A great choice for podcasters who record frequently.
Sony MDR-7506 ~ $100 · Closed-Back
The MDR-7506 is a studio standard that has stood the test of time. You'll find these in professional studios worldwide, and for good reason — detailed, accurate monitoring that reveals exactly what's happening in your recording. Our well-rounded tier recommendation and one of the best values in the category.
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro ~ $100 · Closed-Back
The HD 280 Pro punches above its price point with excellent frequency response and strong passive noise isolation — useful if you're recording in a less-than-ideal environment. Lightweight and comfortable for extended sessions, and a consistent performer across the board.
Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X ~ $250 · Closed-Back
For podcasters who want the best, Beyerdynamic is a name trusted by professional engineers worldwide. The DT 700 Pro X delivers an exceptional listening experience with high-performance drivers, a compact design, and the kind of accuracy that makes critical listening genuinely enjoyable. A worthwhile long-term investment.
Whether you're just getting started or upgrading an existing setup, our Equipment & Setup Deep-Dive pairs each of these recommendations with the right microphone and recording platform for your budget. Or grab our free Gateway Studio Guide if you're still figuring out your setup.
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