In the world of professional audio recording, capturing pristine vocals is of utmost importance. Whether you’re a singer, podcaster, voice actor, or audio engineer, having the right tools can make all the difference in achieving exceptional vocal recordings. One such essential tool is a pair of high-quality over-ear headphones with a built-in microphone.
Over-ear headphones with a mic offer numerous advantages for vocal recording. They provide accurate monitoring, allowing artists to hear themselves clearly while minimizing external distractions. Additionally, these headphones offer superior noise isolation, ensuring that unwanted ambient sounds don’t interfere with the recording process. The built-in microphone in these headphones allows for convenient vocal tracking, eliminating the need for additional microphones or setups.
To help you find the best over-ear headphones with a mic for recording vocals, we have carefully selected and reviewed several top contenders in the market. Each of these headphones has been chosen based on their features, sound quality, microphone performance, durability, and user feedback.
Brief Overview of the Selected Headphones
- Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X: Renowned for its exceptional audio reproduction and professional-grade microphone, the DT 700 PRO X offers a premium recording experience.
- AKG Pro Audio K92: With its balanced sound signature and comfortable design, the K92 is a popular choice among vocalists and recording enthusiasts.
- Neumann NDH20: Engineered by a legendary audio company, the NDH20 provides unmatched sonic accuracy and a detachable, high-quality microphone.
- Yamaha HPH-MT8: Known for its robust construction and accurate sound reproduction, the HPH-MT8 is a reliable option for vocal recording.
- Shure SRH840A: Trusted by professionals worldwide, the SRH840A delivers detailed sound and excellent microphone performance.
Whether you’re a professional musician or a passionate hobbyist, these headphones offer a range of features to meet your specific needs and elevate your vocal recordings to new heights. In the following sections, we will delve deeper into each headphone’s features, pros and cons, user feedback, and real-world testing, helping you make an informed decision.
5 Best Over-Ear Headphones for Crystal-Clear Vocal Recording
Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X
Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X is a closed studio headphone designed specifically for recording and monitoring vocals with its detailed, powerful, and precise sound reproduction. Equipped with Stellar.45 drivers and an impedance of 48 ohms, these headphones offer versatile applications and can be easily used with a wide range of devices.
One notable aspect of the DT 700 PRO X is its exceptional comfort, thanks to its outstanding passive cushioning. The plush earpads and adjustable headband ensure a comfortable fit even during long recording sessions, allowing artists to stay focused on their performance.
In terms of durability and robustness, the DT 700 PRO X excels. Its solid construction can withstand the rigors of professional use, making it a reliable choice for studio environments. Additionally, these headphones are proudly made in Germany, emphasizing their commitment to quality and craftsmanship.
Pros:
- Detailed, powerful sound for accurate vocal recording
- Versatile compatibility with various devices
- Excellent comfort with outstanding passive cushioning
- Durable and robust craftsmanship
- Sustainable headphones, made in Germany
Cons:
- No specific cons were reported
Verdict: Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X stands out as a top contender for recording vocals, offering a powerful and detailed sound signature, versatile compatibility, exceptional comfort, and durable construction. If you’re looking for a reliable and high-performing option to capture and monitor vocals accurately, the DT 700 PRO X is worth considering.
AKG Pro Audio K92
AKG Pro Audio K92 headphones are designed to deliver reference-monitor accuracy with their precisely balanced response. Equipped with professional 40mm drivers, these headphones offer an extended frequency response of 16Hz to 20 kHz, ensuring detailed and accurate sound reproduction for vocal recording.
With an over-ear design and lightweight construction, the K92 provides exceptional comfort, allowing for extended use without discomfort. The closed-back design enhances isolation, minimizing external noise interference and keeping the focus on the vocals being recorded.
Pros:
- Precisely balanced response for reference-monitor accuracy
- Professional 40mm drivers with an extended frequency response
- Over-ear design and lightweight construction for exceptional comfort
- A closed-back design maximizes isolation for focused vocal recording
Cons:
- Some users may find the bass response to be slightly lacking in impact compared to other models.
Verdict: AKG Pro Audio K92 headphones provide a precisely balanced response, professional-grade drivers, exceptional comfort, and effective isolation. These features make them a reliable choice for recording vocals with reference-monitor accuracy and ensuring a comfortable and focused recording experience.
Neumann NDH20
Neumann NDH20 headphones are designed to provide a linear sound balance, reminiscent of Neumann’s acclaimed studio monitors. This ensures accurate and transparent sound reproduction, making them an excellent choice for vocal recording where precision is paramount.
These NDH20 excels in isolation, enabling users to concentrate on their job in loud situations. The closed-back design and excellent sealing contribute to effective noise reduction, maintaining focus on the vocals being recorded.
With a high resolution and transparent sound, the NDH20 headphones offer detailed audio reproduction, capturing the nuances and subtleties of vocals with exceptional clarity. Additionally, they provide long-term comfort, making extended recording sessions more enjoyable, and they are designed for easy transportation.
It’s important to note that the Neumann NDH20 has an impedance of 150 Ohms, which may benefit from a dedicated preamp or headphone amplifier for optimal performance.
Pros:
- Linear sound balance reminiscent of Neumann’s studio monitors
- Excellent isolation for working in noisy environments
- Transparent sound reproduction with high resolution
- High long-term comfort and easy transportation
Cons:
- Requires a dedicated preamp or headphone amplifier for optimal performance
- A higher impedance of 150 Ohms may not be compatible with all devices
- Relatively higher price point compared to other options
Verdict: Neumann NDH20 headphones deliver a linear sound balance, excellent isolation, transparent sound reproduction, and high long-term comfort. They are a top choice for vocal recording, providing accurate and detailed sound while effectively blocking out external noise. For those seeking professional-grade performance, the NDH20 is a highly recommended option, especially when paired with a suitable preamp or headphone amplifier for enhanced audio quality.
Yamaha HPH-MT8
Yamaha HPH-MT8 headphones are high-end monitoring headphones designed to faithfully reproduce every nuance of vocals with their accurate response and precise stereo imaging. They boast a broad frequency range, capturing the mids and high-end details with clarity while delivering tight and solid bass for a well-rounded audio experience.
Specifically crafted for professional mix monitoring, the HPH-MT8 headphones excel in fidelity and precision throughout the frequency spectrum. The closed-back, circumaural design provides excellent isolation, ensuring minimal sound leakage and external noise interference during vocal recording sessions.
Equipped with 45 mm custom drivers and CCAW voice coils, these headphones deliver accurate response and a wide frequency range, allowing for precise audio reproduction. Additionally, the inclusion of a convenient carrying bag makes transportation and storage hassle-free.
Pros:
- High-end monitoring headphones with an accurate response and precise stereo imaging
- Faithfully reproduce every nuance of the mids and high-end frequencies
- Deliver tight, solid bass for a well-rounded audio experience
- Excellent isolation with a closed-back, circumaural design
- 45 mm custom drivers with CCAW voice coils for a broad frequency range and accurate response
- Includes a convenient carrying bag for easy transportation
Cons:
- Some users may find the headphones to be slightly heavy for extended use
- The price point may be higher compared to other options in the market
Verdict: With their high-fidelity sound reproduction, accurate response, precise stereo imaging, and excellent isolation, the Yamaha HPH-MT8 headphones are an exceptional choice for professional vocal recording and mix monitoring. They excel in capturing vocal nuances while delivering a well-balanced audio experience across the frequency spectrum. The added convenience of a carrying bag further enhances their appeal for on-the-go recording sessions.
Shure SRH840A
Shure SRH840A Critical Listening and Monitoring Professional Headphones are an upgraded version of the SRH840, offering premium, detailed audio, and improved features. Designed for critical listening and monitoring, they deliver clear and accurate sound with the lowest harmonic distortion.
With a precisely tailored frequency response, the SRH840A headphones provide rich bass, a clear mid-range, and extended highs, ensuring a balanced and immersive audio experience for recording vocals.
The headphones feature a premium, wide padded headband with collapsible construction, offering superior comfort during extended use and easy portability when on the go. The over-ear, closed-back circumaural design reduces background noise, allowing for focused vocal recording.
SRH840A comes with a long, detachable straight cable, providing ample length for flexible movement and easy storage. The package also includes a carrying bag, a threaded ¼” (6.3 mm) gold-plated adapter, and a two-year warranty.
Pros:
- Premium detailed sound with low harmonic distortion
- Precisely tailored frequency response for rich bass, clear mid-range, and extended highs
- Superior comfort with a wide padded headband and collapsible construction
- Over-ear closed-back design reduces background noise
- Long detachable straight cable for flexibility and easy storage
- Includes carrying bag, threaded ¼” (6.3 mm) gold-plated adapter, and a two-year warranty
Cons:
- Some users may find the headphones to be slightly heavy for extended use
- The price point may be higher compared to other options in the market
- The cable connection may not be as sturdy as desired, requiring careful handling
Verdict: Shure SRH840A headphones deliver premium, detailed sound with low harmonic distortion, making them an excellent choice for critical listening and monitoring during vocal recording. With their tailored frequency response, superior comfort, and easy portability, they offer a well-rounded package for professionals. The inclusion of a long detachable cable, carrying bag, and warranty further enhances their appeal.
10 Essential Tips for Buying Over-Ear Headphones with Mic
Impeccable Sonic Signature
Look for headphones that offer a balanced and accurate sound reproduction, ensuring that the vocals are faithfully captured and represented without distortion or coloration.
Acoustic Isolation Marvel
Choose closed-back headphones to assist separate the vocals being captured from background noise. This allows for a focused and uninterrupted recording experience.
Lavish Comfort Oasis
Comfort is crucial, especially during long recording sessions. Choose headphones with well-padded ear cups, an adjustable headband, and a lightweight design to ensure a comfortable fit.
Microphone Mastery
Ensure that the headphones are equipped with a high-quality built-in microphone or have the capability to connect an external microphone. This ensures accurate and clear vocal recordings.
Resilience and Endurance
Look for headphones that are built to last with durable materials and sturdy construction. This ensures they can withstand the demands of frequent use in recording environments.
Connectivity Universe
Consider the connectivity options available. Whether wired or wireless, make sure the headphones are compatible with your recording equipment for seamless integration.
A Melody of Budget Harmony
Balance your budget with the features and quality you desire. Look for headphones that offer the best value for your investment without compromising on essential aspects.
Vocal Genre Synergy
Consider the specific vocal genre you’ll be recording. Different headphones may excel at capturing certain vocal styles, so choose accordingly to achieve the desired sonic characteristics.
Impressive Soundstage
Seek headphones that provide a wide and immersive soundstage, allowing you to accurately perceive the spatial positioning of vocals within the mix.
User Feedback and Real-World Testing
Research user reviews and engage in real-world testing whenever possible. This helps gauge the overall performance and suitability of the headphones for vocal recording.
Final Considerations
Ultimately, finding the best over-ear headphones with a mic for recording vocals is a subjective process. While the headphones mentioned in this guide provide excellent features and performance, it’s important to consider your personal preferences and requirements. Every vocalist has unique needs, and what works for one may not necessarily work for another.
Take into account factors such as your vocal style, budget, comfort preferences, and desired sound characteristics. Consider the specific features that are most important to you, whether it’s exceptional sound quality, superior isolation, or microphone compatibility.
In your quest to find the perfect headphones for recording vocals, it’s crucial to strike a balance between technical specifications, user reviews, and personal experience. Pay attention to the buying guide factors outlined earlier to make an informed decision.
Remember, the best headphones for recording vocals are the ones that enhance your performance and allow you to capture the true essence of your voice. Trust your ears and rely on real-world testing whenever possible. The ideal headphones should inspire confidence and provide a reliable tool for your vocal recording endeavors.
Investing in high-quality headphones tailored to your specific needs will elevate your recording sessions and help you achieve professional-level results. So, take the time to explore different options, try them out, and make a choice that resonates with your unique style and aspirations.
