When buying DJ headphones pay attention to the following important things:
Table of Contents:
Volume
DJ headphones must be loud so that you can mask external noise. Manufacturers usually specify the volume (sound level in dB) in their technical specifications. Values around 100 dB are thus the rule for DJ headphones. This provides enough power resources if you need to increase the volume on the DJ mixer. However, make sure that the headphones do not distort too quickly. Caution: Headphones turned up too loud can damage your ears!
Sound quality
Headphones have a specific sound signature for which the manufacturer is solely responsible. Some DJ headphones come with a particularly bass-heavy sound (such as the Rane RH-1), which can help when mixing. Other DJ headphones, on the contrary, have a homogeneous sound, such as the Technics EAH-DJ1200.
Also pay attention to the frequency range the headphones can reproduce. Your ideal candidate should start at around 30 Hz and go at least up to 18 kHz. This means you are well equipped when it comes to listening to sub-basses as well as elements in the high-frequency range.
A low impedance is just as crucial, so that the headphones can be driven by any mixer with enough headroom.
Comfort
As DJs, you wear headphones for long periods of time, so comfort is extremely crucial. Padded ear cups and headbands are just as essential, as is the clamping pressure. This should be tight enough to keep the headphones on your ears even during more severe (head) movements.
Noise isolation
In order to hear the bass in the tracks easily and to be able to focus on pre-listening (cueing), DJ headphones should be closed-back. Only this design adequately shields outside noise.
Durability & Sustainability
DJ headphones are heavily used, so their durability is crucial. It should therefore be sturdily built, as the headphones have to withstand a lot in everyday DJ life. To ensure that you still enjoy your DJ headphones after years, please also check the availability of spare parts. Cables, ear pads and other parts should not only be replaceable, but also available from the manufacturer for years to come. A good example is the Sennheiser HD 25 (review), which was released back in 1988. Sennheiser still offers suitable replacement parts. This, along with its robustness and sound, is one of the main reasons why the HD 25 is one of the best-selling DJ headphones.
Cable length
DJ headphones usually have longer cables to allow freedom of movement and flexibility when performing. Make sure that the cable length is sufficient for your needs and that the cable is reinforced (kink protection). It should be at least 2 meters, if necessary you can connect an extension to the cable. Usually you need a mini jack cable with a 3.5 mm plug and a 3.5 mm jack. Note that an additional cable not only increases the risk of accidents, but can also have a negative effect on the signal.
Transportability
As DJs, you are on the road quite a bit and take your equipment with you when you travel. It is therefore important that your DJ headphones are foldable and hinged. This saves space in the DJ bag and is therefore easier to carry. Some manufacturers extend the scope of delivery with a travel bag or pouch. Ideally, this is a hard case that can absorb shocks and keep dirt and moisture out.
Price
DJ headphones range from very affordable to very expensive. Set your budget and prioritize the key features that are most important to you. Using our headphone finder feature on the main page, we will filter all headphones that exactly match your price expectations!
Personal requirements
The points mentioned above are certainly among the most important. But depending on your personal requirements, you can extend this list: Should the DJ headphones have a certain color or shape? Or even a headphone that is so flexible that you can upgrade it? Because there is such a thing: The Aiaiai TMA-2 can be converted as DJ headphones thanks to its modular design. Whether new driver capsules for the studio, with larger ear cups or lushly padded headband.
In our individual tests, we also knock off these requirements for a good DJ headphones.
→ see also: The best DJ headphones
