7 Best Audiophile Headphones in 2024 | User’s Picks

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When it comes to meetings and calls, audio quality is often the top priority. You want to ensure that every word is clear, and that’s why having a good pair of audiophile-level headphones is so important. It’s not just you; there’s a massive demand for these high-quality headphones. In fact, the global audiophile headphone market was valued at nearly $2.85 billion in 2022, showing just how many people recognize their value.

After testing over 125 pairs of headphones, we’re excited to share our top picks for the best audiophile headphones. 

The List of Best Audiophile Headphones

• Sennheiser HD 800 S – Best Overall Audiophile Headphones
• HIFIMAN Sundara – Best Budget Audiophile Headphones
• Focal Bathys – Best Active Noise Canceling
• Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro – Best Closed-Back Audiophile Headphones
• Moondrop Blessing 3 – Best In-Ear Audiophile Headphones
• Grado SR325x – Best Open-Back Audiophile Headphones
• Shure Aonic 5 – Best Customizable Audiophile In-Ear Monitors

How We Compiled This List

To create our list of the best audiophile headphones, we followed a thorough process:

• Review Checking: We examined reviews for nearly 125 headphone models on platforms like Amazon, Head-Fi, and CNET. We focused on models with at least 4.5 stars to ensure we only included well-rated options.
• Key Measurements: We evaluated important aspects such as durability, build quality, value, design, connectivity, portability, feature set, and comfort. These factors determine how well a headphone performs and fits into your lifestyle.
  
• Affordability: We’ve selected headphones that deliver excellent sound quality without breaking the bank. 

1. Sennheiser HD 800 S – Best Overall Audiophile Headphones

The Sennheiser HD 800 S is an iconic audiophile headphones widely acclaimed for their superior sound quality and precision. These headphones are designed for listeners who demand the absolute best in audio reproduction and focus on delivering an expansive and immersive listening experience.

Specifications

• Price: $1,600 (prices may vary)
• Dimensions: 10.7 x 5.9 x 13.4 inches
• Weight: 330 grams (11.6 ounces)
• Model Number: HD 800 S
• ASIN: B077XDWT7X
• Waterproof: No

What We Like

• Exceptional Soundstage: The HD 800 S offers an expansive soundstage, creating a wide and immersive audio experience that makes it feel like the music is happening all around you.
• High-Resolution Audio: These headphones deliver crystal-clear audio with excellent detail and precision, making them perfect for critical listening.
• Comfortable Fit: The large, soft ear cups and lightweight design ensure comfort during extended listening sessions.
• Premium Build Quality: They are made from high-quality materials that will last long and exude luxury.

What We Don’t Like

• Price: The HD 800 S is a significant investment, making it less accessible to casual listeners.
• Requires Amplification: To fully experience the potential of these headphones, a high-quality amplifier is recommended, adding to the overall cost.
• Bulky Design: The large size and lack of portability mean these headphones are best suited for home use.

Rating Metrics

2. HIFIMAN Sundara – Best Budget Audiophile Headphones

The HIFIMAN Sundara is highly praised as one of the best headphones under $300, popular among audiophiles who seek high-quality sound without the premium price tag. Known for its planar magnetic drivers, the Sundara delivers exceptional clarity and detail, often rivaling more expensive models. It’s an excellent entry point into audiophile headphones, offering a well-rounded listening experience at an accessible price.

Specifications

• Price: $299 (prices may vary)
• Dimensions: 11.7 x 10 x 6.4 inches
• Weight: 372 grams (13.1 ounces)
• Model Number: HIFIMAN Sundara
• Waterproof: No

What We Like

• Planar Magnetic Drivers: The Sundara uses planar magnetic technology, which provides superior clarity, fast response, and detailed sound that’s often found in much more expensive headphones.
• Balanced Sound Signature: These headphones offer a neutral sound signature with excellent bass, mids, and highs, making them adaptable for various music genres.
• Affordable Price: The Sundara provides audiophile-grade sound at a relatively low price point, making it accessible to a broader audience.
• Comfortable Design: The lightweight and comfortable design, with well-padded ear cups, allows for long listening sessions without discomfort.

What We Don’t Like

• Build Quality: While generally solid, the build quality feels less premium than some higher-end models, with more plastic components that might not be as durable.
• Amplifier Recommended: An amplifier is recommended to achieve the best sound performance, which adds to the overall cost.
• Non-Foldable Design: The headphones do not fold, making them less portable and harder to store or transport.

Rating Metrics

3. Focal Bathys – Best Active Noise Canceling

The Focal Bathys is a high-quality wireless headphone from Focal, a brand known for its excellent audio products. It offers the ease of wireless use along with the great sound Focal is recognized for. If you’re looking for wireless headphones that deliver solid audio performance, the Bathys is a good option.

Specifications

• Price: $799 (prices may vary)
• Dimensions: 9.4 x 9.8 x 4.3 inches
• Weight: 350 grams (12.3 ounces)
• Model Number: Bathys
• Waterproof: No

What We Like

• High-Resolution Audio: The Focal Bathys supports high-resolution audio over Bluetooth, delivering a detailed and rich sound signature that rivals wired headphones.
• Active Noise Cancellation (ANC): The Bathys includes an effective ANC feature, allowing users to enjoy their music in noisy environments without distractions.
• Premium Build Quality: Crafted with high-end materials, including aluminum and leather, the Bathys feels luxurious and is built to last.
• Wired Mode Available: The Bathys also supports a wired connection for those who prefer wired listening, offering even higher sound quality and versatility.

What We Don’t Like

• Price: At $799, the Bathys is a significant investment, which might be a barrier for some potential buyers.
• Battery Life: While the battery life is decent, lasting around 30 hours with ANC on, some competitors offer longer battery life in the same price range.
• Bulky Design: The headphones are less portable than some other wireless models, making them less convenient for on-the-go use.

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4. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro – Best Closed-Back Audiophile Headphones

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is a classic and well-respected closed-back headphone, particularly popular among audio professionals and audiophiles alike. Known for its robust build and excellent sound isolation, the DT 770 Pro is a versatile choice for studio monitoring, casual listening, and everything in between. Available in different impedance levels, it adapts to various listening environments.

Specifications

• Price: $159 (prices may vary)
• Dimensions: 7.25 x 4 x 8.5 inches
• Weight: 270 grams (9.5 ounces)
• Model Number: DT 770 Pro
• Waterproof: No

What We Like

• Exceptional Sound Isolation: The closed-back design provides excellent noise isolation, making the DT 770 Pro ideal for use in noisy environments or for monitoring in the studio.
• Comfortable Fit: The headphones feature soft velour ear pads and an adjustable headband, ensuring comfort during long listening sessions.
• Detailed Sound Signature: The DT 770 Pro offers a balanced sound with deep bass, clear mids, and detailed highs, making it versatile for various music genres and professional use.
• Variety of Impedance Options: Available in 32, 80, and 250-ohm versions, allowing users to choose based on their preferred listening setup, whether it’s portable devices, home listening, or studio use.

What We Don’t Like

• Non-Detachable Cable: The cable is fixed, which can be inconvenient if it gets damaged or if you prefer a shorter or longer cable.
• Bulky Design: The headphones are large and not foldable, making them less portable and more suited for home or studio use.
• Bass Heavy: Some users may find the bass response a bit too pronounced, especially at higher impedance levels, which may not suit all genres of music.

Rating Metrics

5. Moondrop Blessing 3 – Best In-Ear Audiophile Headphones

The Moondrop Blessing 3 is a highly regarded in-ear monitor (IEM) known for its exceptional sound quality, precise tuning, and premium build. Moondrop has built a strong reputation in the audiophile community, and the Blessing 3 is a testament to their expertise in delivering high-performance IEMs at a relatively affordable price.

Specifications

• Price: $320 (prices may vary)
• Dimensions: Not specifically listed (in-ear monitors typically have compact sizes)
• Weight: Approximately 30 grams (1.06 ounces)
• Model Number: Blessing 3
• Waterproof: No

What We Like

• Balanced Sound Signature: The Blessing 3 is praised for its neutral and well-balanced sound signature, with excellent clarity across the frequency spectrum. The detailed mids and extended highs make it suitable for various music genres.
• Hybrid Driver Configuration: The IEMs feature a hybrid setup with balanced armature and dynamic drivers, providing a blend of precise treble and impactful bass, resulting in a rich and immersive listening experience.
• High-Quality Build: The Blessing 3 has premium materials, including a durable resin shell and a high-quality metal nozzle. The design is visually appealing, strong, and made to last.
• Comfortable Fit: Designed for long listening sessions, the IEMs come with multiple ear tip options to ensure a secure and comfortable fit, minimizing ear fatigue.
• Detachable Cable: The included detachable cable is of high quality and can be easily replaced or upgraded, offering added convenience and durability.

What We Don’t Like

• Lacks Deep Bass: While the bass is well-controlled and present, some users may find it lacking in depth and punch compared to other IEMs with a more pronounced low end.
• Not Ideal for Casual Listening: The Blessing 3’s detailed and analytical sound may not be suitable for those who prefer a more relaxed and bass-heavy listening experience.
• Price: While reasonably priced for its performance, the Blessing 3 might still be considered expensive for casual listeners or those new to IEMs.

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6. Grado SR325x – Best Open-Back Audiophile Headphones

The Grado SR325x is part of Grado’s Prestige Series, known for delivering a bright, energetic sound signature with exceptional detail and clarity. As an open-back headphone, the SR325x offers a wide soundstage and a natural listening experience. Grado’s distinctive design and hand-crafted quality make the SR325x a favorite among audiophiles who value transparency and musicality.

Specifications

• Price: $295 (prices may vary)
• Dimensions: 8 x 4 x 9 inches
• Weight: 340 grams (12 ounces)
• Model Number: SR325x
• Waterproof: No

What We Like

• Exceptional Clarity and Detail: The SR325x delivers a bright and detailed sound signature, with sparkling highs and clear mids, making it ideal for genres like classical, jazz, and acoustic music.
• Wide Soundstage: As an open-back headphone, the SR325x offers a spacious soundstage with depth and realism, enhancing the listening experience.
• Classic Grado Design: The SR325x features Grado’s signature retro design, with a metal housing that adds to its durability and premium feel.
• Comfortable for Long Listening Sessions: The headphones come with large foam ear pads that fit comfortably, even during extended listening sessions.
• Hand-Crafted Quality: Each pair of SR325x headphones is hand-assembled in Brooklyn, New York, ensuring high craftsmanship and attention to detail.

What We Don’t Like

• Bright Sound Signature: The SR325x’s emphasis on treble can be too sharp for some listeners, especially those who prefer a warmer or more balanced sound.
• Limited Bass Response: While the bass is tight and accurate, it lacks the depth and impact that bass enthusiasts might seek, making it less suitable for bass-heavy genres.
• Leakage: The open-back design means sound leakage is significant, which could disturb others in quiet environments and limit its use in public or shared spaces.
• Non-Detachable Cable: The cable is fixed and cannot be replaced or upgraded, which might be a drawback for some users.

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7. Shure Aonic 5 – Best Customizable Audiophile In-Ear Monitors

The Shure Aonic 5 is a high-performance in-ear monitor (IEM) that delivers exceptional sound quality with a focus on clarity and detail. Part of Shure’s Aonic series, the Aonic 5 is designed for audiophiles and professional musicians. It features customizable sound signatures and a durable, ergonomic design, making it a versatile choice for critical listening.

Specifications

• Price: $499 (prices may vary)
• Dimensions: Not specifically listed (in-ear monitors are compact by design)
• Weight: Approximately 24 grams (0.85 ounces)
• Model Number: AONIC 5
• Waterproof: No

What We Like

• Customizable Sound Signature: The Aonic 5 includes interchangeable nozzles that allow users to customize the sound signature according to their preferences, whether they prefer a balanced, warm, or bright sound.
• Triple Driver Configuration: The IEMs feature a triple high-definition balanced armature driver setup, delivering clear highs, natural mids, and a well-controlled bass response. This configuration offers an accurate and detailed listening experience.
• Excellent Noise Isolation: With Shure’s Sound Isolating technology, the Aonic 5 effectively blocks out ambient noise, allowing for an immersive listening experience even in noisy environments.
• Durable and Ergonomic Design: The IEMs are built to last, with a robust construction that includes a reinforced cable and an ergonomic shape that ensures a secure and comfortable fit.
• Detachable Cable: The Aonic 5 comes with a detachable MMCX cable, making it easy to replace or upgrade the cable, adding to the longevity of the IEMs.

What We Don’t Like

• Price: The Aonic 5 is on the higher end of the price spectrum for IEMs, which might be a consideration for budget-conscious buyers.
• Fit May Vary: While the design is generally ergonomic, the fit can vary depending on ear shape, and some users may need to experiment with different ear tips to achieve a comfortable and secure fit.
• Bass Response: The bass, while accurate, may be too subtle for those who prefer a more bass-forward sound, making it less ideal for bass-heavy genres.

Rating Metrics

How Krisp Enhances Your Audiophile Headphones’ Audio Quality

Even with the best audiophile headphones, background noise can still disrupt your listening experience, especially during important calls or meetings. Background distractions like traffic, barking dogs, or noisy environments can make it hard for your team to focus and hear your message.

Krisp’s AI-powered noise cancellation eliminates these disruptions by automatically removing unwanted background noise from your calls. With Krisp, your voice comes through crystal clear, free from the interference of external sounds. This ensures that your communication is smooth and uninterrupted, allowing your team to engage in the conversation fully.

Additional Krisp Features For Meeting Productivity

In addition to noise cancellation, Krisp offers extra features to boost your productivity during calls. It includes an AI meeting assistant that automatically transcribes your conversations, takes notes, and generates actionable items from the discussion. This helps you stay organized and focused on what matters most. Whether you’re in a team meeting or working on a project, Krisp will improve the sound quality of your audiophile headphones and help you take notes, making every call more efficient and enjoyable.

Conclusion

Finding the right audiophile headphones can make a big difference in how you experience music and calls. Our list includes top choices offering great sound, comfort, and value, whether you’re looking for premium or more affordable picks. We have researched important features to help you choose the best headphones for your needs. No matter your budget or experience level, these headphones will help you enjoy your audio to the fullest.

If you are interested in earbuds for noise-canceling and convenience, check out our guide to the best noise-canceling earbuds.

Frequently Asked Questions