AudioFu
Warwick Alien Deluxe Hybrid 4 LH… ↓ 33.4% $671Allen & Heath SQ5 ↓ 28.8% $2,912Warwick Alien Deluxe 5 NT LH ↓ 27.8% $727Allen & Heath SQ5 Case Bundle I ↓ 26.7% $3,170Casio AP-S200 BN ↓ 23.9% $963Allen & Heath SQ5, Case, DX168/X… ↓ 21.7% $5,187Dangerous Music 2 Bus+ ↓ 21.0% $4,033Orange PPC212-COB ↓ 20.6% $586Orange Micro Dark ↓ 20.2% $195Seymour Duncan SHR-1B Hot Rails… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SHR1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N BLK ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Bridge… ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1N Creme ↓ 19.3% $122Seymour Duncan SL59-1B Parchment ↓ 19.3% $122

AudioFu Chart · October 2026

Best HiFi Headphones for Intermediate 2026

The top pick is Yamaha HPH-MT5 Closed-Back Monitor Headphones ($133). AKG K92 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones gives you the most for the money at $49. Sennheiser HD 620S leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 94 models across 27 brands, prices checked every night.

Last updated: October 12, 2026

94models in this chart
27brands
$206median price
39price drops since Aug

Narrow the chart

All HiFi Headphones Showing: For Intermediate · clear

Top 10

Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.

  1. Yamaha HPH-MT5 Closed-Back Monitor Headphones

    HPH-MT5W · Yamaha

    27 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    These Yamaha MT5Ws are a solid choice for budget-conscious producers and musicians needing reliable monitoring. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price, and the sound is clear and balanced – perfect for critical listening and tracking. They're not going to blow you away with a huge soundstage, but they’ll serve you well in a studio or home setup.

    Pros

    • Robust ABS and aluminum construction inspires confidence and durability
    • CCAW voice coil delivers accurate, detailed audio reproduction
    • Comfortable circumaural design allows for extended monitoring sessions

    Cons

    • Faux leather earcups might not be ideal for long-term heat buildup
    • 51 Ohm impedance could be a slight challenge for lower-powered devices
    69AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand100
    • Lineup68
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker78
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$133 now
    $133€119 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  2. Yamaha HPH-MT8 Closed-Back Monitor Headphones

    HPH-MT8 · Yamaha

    21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    These Yamaha MT8s are solid choices for music producers and critical listeners needing accurate, closed-back monitoring. The build quality is surprisingly good for the price point, and they offer a neutral sound signature ideal for mixing and mastering. They’re a workhorse that’ll get the job done without unnecessary frills.

    Pros

    • Robust ABS cover and aluminum arms enhance durability for studio use
    • 37 Ohm impedance makes them easy to drive from various sources
    • CCA dynamic drivers deliver a surprisingly balanced and detailed sound

    Cons

    • Can feel a bit heavy after extended use, especially for smaller heads
    • Soundstage is somewhat limited compared to open-back alternatives
    68AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand93
    • Lineup43
    • Price100
    • Specs0
    • Maker78
    ↓ 16.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $268 · Aug 14$223 now
    $223€199 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  3. Yamaha HPH-MT7 Over-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones

    HPH-MT7 Black · Yamaha

    17 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann

    These Yamaha MT7s are a serious contender for budget-conscious studio work. They provide a clear, accurate soundstage perfect for mixing and critical listening, and the robust build feels much pricier than they are. If you need reliable, accurate monitoring without a huge investment, these are a fantastic choice.

    Pros

    • Solid build with diecast aluminium support arms for durability
    • Closed-back design effectively isolates sound for monitoring
    • 40mm drivers deliver a balanced, detailed frequency response

    Cons

    • The 360g weight can become fatiguing during long sessions
    • Synthetic leather earpads might not be as breathable as genuine leather
    64AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand87
    • Lineup68
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker78
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$206 now
    $206€184 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  4. Mackie MC-150 Closed-Back Monitor Headphones

    MC-150 · Mackie

    21 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    These Mackie headphones give you clear sound from the lowest kick drum to the highest notes. The soft padding lets you wear them for long studio sessions without pain. They fold up small, making them perfect for DJs or field recording on the go.

    Pros

    • Outstanding transparency across the full frequency spectrum
    • Accurate low and very low frequency bass reproduction
    • Soft padded adjustable headband for hours of comfort

    Cons

    • Sensitivity value is missing from the provided description
    • Weight is not specified in the manufacturer text
    57AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand93
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker36
    Stableno change since Aug 17
    Aug 17$66 now
    $66€59 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  5. Sennheiser HD 620S

    Sennheiser

    Not on Reverb yet4 finishes at Thomann

    The HD 620S is a seriously refined closed-back headphone, offering a level of clarity and detail you wouldn't expect at its price point. It's a great choice for someone who appreciates a wider soundstage than typical closed-backs provide and wants a comfortable, reliable listening experience – especially good for classical music or critical listening where isolation is preferred.

    Pros

    • Excellent detail retrieval across the frequency spectrum.
    • Angled drivers create a surprisingly wide and immersive soundstage.
    • Comfortable for extended listening sessions thanks to the artificial leather ear pads.

    Cons

    • Closed-back design limits bass extension compared to open-back alternatives.
    • 150 Ohm impedance requires a decent headphone amplifier for optimal performance.
    57AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup100
    • Price100
    • Specs0
    • Maker100
    ↓ 18.3%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $313 · Aug 14$256 now
    $256€228 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  6. Yamaha HPH-150B Open-Air Headphones

    HPH-150B · Yamaha

    10 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    These Yamaha HPH-150Bs are solid all-around headphones for the price. They deliver a surprisingly neutral and detailed sound, making them great for beginner music producers, DJs, or anyone needing a reliable monitoring solution without spending a fortune. They're comfortable enough for long sessions, too.

    Pros

    • Clear, balanced soundstage suitable for mixing and monitoring
    • Comfortable supra-aural design for extended listening sessions
    • Durable construction with robust swivel joints and cable

    Cons

    • Plastic build feels somewhat budget-oriented, lacks premium feel
    • Sound lacks significant 'wow' factor for critical audiophiles
    53AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand72
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker78
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$100 now
    $100€89 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  7. AKG K72 Closed-back Studio Monitoring Headphones

    K-72 · AKG

    23 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    These AKG K-72s are a solid choice for casual listeners or those needing a reliable, portable set of headphones. The sound is balanced and clear, making them good for podcasts, acoustic music, or general use. They're a surprisingly decent option for someone wanting a closed-back headphone on a budget.

    Pros

    • Surprisingly robust headband construction for the price point.
    • Clear, crisp highs without harshness; pleasant for extended listening.
    • Lightweight design minimizes fatigue during long sessions.

    Cons

    • Bass response is noticeably lacking for bass-heavy genres.
    • Plastic construction feels budget-oriented; longevity a question mark.
    59AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand95
    • Lineup43
    • Price50
    • Specs0
    • Maker52
    Stableno change since Aug 14
    Aug 14$53 now
    $53€47 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  8. Sennheiser HD 550

    Sennheiser

    Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann

    The HD 550 is a solid choice for someone looking for an open-back experience without spending a fortune. It's a balanced, comfortable headphone, perfect for critical listening at home or in a quiet space – think classical, acoustic, or even well-produced electronic music. The soundstage is surprisingly wide for a closed-back design.

    Pros

    • Comfortable velour earpads offer extended listening sessions.
    • Open-back design delivers a wide, natural soundstage.
    • 150 Ohm impedance suits a wide range of amplifiers.

    Cons

    • Synthetic leather headband can get warm during long use.
    • Lacks a truly premium, robust feel compared to higher-end models.
    51AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup68
    • Price100
    • Specs0
    • Maker100
    ↓ 28.7%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $313 · Aug 14$223 now
    $223€199 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  9. AKG K92 Closed-Back Over-Ear Studio Headphones

    K-92 · AKG

    25 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann

    The AKG K-92 is a surprisingly capable budget-friendly option for casual listening or basic monitoring. They offer a reasonably neutral sound and decent isolation, making them suitable for students, travelers, or anyone needing a reliable pair of headphones without spending a fortune. Don't expect audiophile performance, but they’re a solid choice for the price.

    Pros

    • Surprisingly robust headband construction for the price point.
    • Decent sound isolation due to the closed-back design.
    • Relatively flat frequency response for accurate monitoring.

    Cons

    • Plastic construction feels a bit cheap, lacks premium feel.
    • Bass response is somewhat lacking, can sound thin.
    61AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand98
    • Lineup43
    • Price57
    • Specs0
    • Maker52
    ↓ 2.2%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $50 · Aug 14$49 now
    $49€44 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗
  10. HIFIMAN Edition XS

    HIFIMAN

    Not on Reverb yet2 finishes at Thomann

    The Edition XS is a seriously impressive entry into the planar headphone world. The sound is detailed and relatively neutral, making it a great all-rounder for critical listening and enjoying a wide variety of genres. It's a fantastic option for someone wanting to experience planar magnetic sound without a huge investment.

    Pros

    • Stealth magnet drivers deliver remarkably detailed and balanced soundstage.
    • NEO Supernano diaphragms offer impressive transient response and clarity.
    • Two-sided cable routing significantly improves cable management and comfort.

    Cons

    • 405g weight can induce fatigue during extended listening sessions.
    • 18-ohm impedance requires a moderately powerful amplifier for optimal performance.
    50AudioFu
    Index
    • Demand30
    • Lineup68
    • Price100
    • Specs0
    • Maker92
    ↓ 18.6%since Aug 14 · lowest so far
    $301 · Aug 14$245 now
    $245€219 at Thomann · in stock
    Check price ↗

All 94 hifi headphones

Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.

  1. 11
    Sennheiser HD599 Open Back Headphones - 50 OhmsHD 599 · Sennheiser
    Index 46↓ 6.7%
    46
    ↓ 6.7%$156€139
    $156€139Check ↗
  2. 12
    Yamaha HPH-50B Closed-Back HeadphonesHPH-50B · Yamaha · 2 finishes
    Index 65↓ 5.4%
    65
    ↓ 5.4%$39€35
    $39€35Check ↗
  3. 13
    AKG K702 Open-Back Studio Reference HeadphonesK-702 · AKG
    Index 45↑ 28.8%
    45
    ↑ 28.8%$201€179
    $201€179Check ↗
  4. 14
    Sennheiser HD 600 Professional HeadphonesHD 600 · Sennheiser
    Index 45↓ 5.1%
    45
    ↓ 5.1%$335€299
    $335€299Check ↗
  5. 15
    Yamaha HPH-100WH On-Ear HeadphonesHPH-100B · Yamaha · 2 finishes
    Index 44↓ 5.2%
    44
    ↓ 5.2%$62€55
    $62€55Check ↗
  6. 16
    Meze Audio 105 AerMeze Audio
    Index 44↓ 25.1%
    44
    ↓ 25.1%$335€299
    $335€299Check ↗
  7. 17
    HIFIMAN ANANDA NanoHIFIMAN
    Index 43↓ 13.2%
    43
    ↓ 13.2%$369€329
    $369€329Check ↗
  8. 18
    Sennheiser HD-200 ProSennheiser
    Index 41↓ 5.8%
    41
    ↓ 5.8%$73€65
    $73€65Check ↗
  9. 19
    JVC HA-S95NJVC
    Index 41↓ 19.8%
    41
    ↓ 19.8%$100€89
    $100€89Check ↗
  10. 20
    Roland RH-200 Over-Ear HeadphonesRH-200 · Roland
    Index 41Stable
    41
    Stable$106€95
    $106€95Check ↗
  11. 21
    Meze Audio Alba SMeze Audio · 2 finishes
    Index 41Stable
    41
    Stable$145€129
    $145€129Check ↗
  12. 22
    Sennheiser HP 02-100Sennheiser
    Index 41↓ 5.7%
    41
    ↓ 5.7%$369€329
    $369€329Check ↗
  13. 23
    JVC HA-S75NJVC
    Index 40↓ 12.7%
    40
    ↓ 12.7%$77€69
    $77€69Check ↗
  14. 24
    Sennheiser HD 569Sennheiser
    Index 40↓ 5.2%
    40
    ↓ 5.2%$122€109
    $122€109Check ↗
  15. 25
    Meze Audio 99 Classics 2nd GenerationMeze Audio
    Index 39↓ 6.9%
    39
    ↓ 6.9%$364€325
    $364€325Check ↗
  16. 26
    Mackie MC-100 Closed Back Headphones - 32 OhmsMC-100 · Mackie
    Index 54Stable
    54
    Stable$44€39
    $44€39Check ↗
  17. 27
    Sennheiser IE 200Sennheiser
    Index 38Stable
    38
    Stable$145€129
    $145€129Check ↗
  18. 28
    AIAIAI Tracks USB-C WhiteAIAIAI · 2 finishes
    Index 37Stable
    37
    Stable$66€59
    $66€59Check ↗
  19. 29
    HIFIMAN SUNDARA Closed BackHIFIMAN
    Index 37Stable
    37
    Stable$156€139
    $156€139Check ↗
  20. 30
    Listen Technologies Listen LA-402Listen Technologies
    Index 49↓ 8.0%
    49
    ↓ 8.0%$46€41
    $46€41Check ↗
  21. 31
    Gewa HP NINE-XGewa
    Index 33Stable
    33
    Stable$73€65
    $73€65Check ↗
  22. 32
    Beyerdynamic TYGR 300 R Open Back HeadsetTYGR 300 R · beyerdynamic
    Index 32Stable
    32
    Stable$178€159
    $178€159Check ↗
  23. 33
    Sennheiser CX 80U BlackSennheiser · 3 finishes
    Index 47Stable
    47
    Stable$44€39
    $44€39Check ↗
  24. 34
    Kawai SH-9Kawai
    Index 30Stable
    30
    Stable$111€99
    $111€99Check ↗
  25. 35
    Dexibell DX HF7Dexibell
    Index 30Stable
    30
    Stable$118€105
    $118€105Check ↗
  26. 36
    Roland RH-5 Stereo HeadphonesRH-5 · Roland
    Index 49Stable
    49
    Stable$37€33
    $37€33Check ↗
  27. 37
    Sennheiser HD 620S Mic BundleSennheiser
    Index 25↓ 8.8%
    25
    ↓ 8.8%$301€269
    $301€269Check ↗
  28. 38
    AKG K52 Closed-Back HeadphonesK-52 · AKG
    Index 46↓ 2.9%
    46
    ↓ 2.9%$37€33
    $37€33Check ↗
  29. 39
    Sennheiser CX 80U SakuraSennheiser
    Index 38Stable
    38
    Stable$44€39
    $44€39Check ↗
  30. 40
    JVC HA-S36W WhiteJVC
    Index 36↓ 5.4%
    36
    ↓ 5.4%$39€35
    $39€35Check ↗
  31. 41
    Gewa HP EIGHTGewa
    Index 33Stable
    33
    Stable$41€37
    $41€37Check ↗
  32. 42
    Superlux HD-330Superlux
    Index 34Stable
    34
    Stable$38€34
    $38€34Check ↗
  33. 43
    Sennheiser HD 650 Reference HeadphonesHD 650 · Sennheiser
    Index 55↑ 3.7%
    55
    ↑ 3.7%$406€362
    $406€362Check ↗
  34. 44
    Sennheiser HP 02-100 Single UnitSennheiser
    Index 38Stable
    38
    Stable$28€25
    $28€25Check ↗
  35. 45
    Audeze LCD-5 Open-Back Planar Magnetic HeadphonesLCD-5 · Audeze · 2 finishes
    Index 53↓ 4.0%
    53
    ↓ 4.0%$5,377€4,798
    $5,377€4,798Check ↗
  36. 46
    Behringer HPM1000 Multi-Purpose HeadphonesHPM1000-BK · Behringer · 2 finishes
    Index 52↓ 18.4%
    52
    ↓ 18.4%$10€9
    $10€9Check ↗
  37. 47
    HIFIMAN Mini Shangri-LaHIFIMAN
    Index 52Stable
    52
    Stable$2,150€1,919
    $2,150€1,919Check ↗
  38. 48
    HIFIMAN HE1000 UnveiledHIFIMAN · 2 finishes
    Index 50↓ 18.9%
    50
    ↓ 18.9%$2,688€2,399
    $2,688€2,399Check ↗
  39. 49
    Superlux HD-651 RedSuperlux · 2 finishes
    Index 46↓ 24.5%
    46
    ↓ 24.5%$13€12
    $13€12Check ↗
  40. 50
    Gewa HP SIX Black/RedGewa · 2 finishes
    Index 38Stable
    38
    Stable$22€20
    $22€20Check ↗

HiFi Headphones by the numbers

Measured across all 113 models we track, not a sample.

Price distribution

Median $206 — half of all hifi headphones here cost less.

29
21
13
14
10
7
13
6
<$50$50–150$150–300$300–500$500–1k$1k–2k$2k–5k$5k+

How the AudioFu Index works

Five measured signals and nothing else — no stars from strangers, no “tested by experts” we didn’t do. The weights are fixed and public. We don’t play these instruments; we measure the market around them.

This chart covers 113 hifi headphones from the Thomann catalogue. Before you buy, read hands-on reviews and, where you can, play it. Full methodology.

AudioFu earns a commission when you buy through our Thomann links. It never changes the order — the index does.

  • Demand40%

    How many of this exact model are for sale on Reverb right now — what musicians actually buy and resell.

  • Lineup20%

    How many finishes Thomann stocks — makers expand the models that sell.

  • Price15%

    Where the price has moved since we started tracking in August.

  • Specs15%

    How completely the maker documents it.

  • Maker10%

    How deep the brand’s range is in this category.

Questions

What should I look for when buying hifi headphones?

Key factors include build quality, sound characteristics, playability, brand reputation, warranty coverage, and value for money. Consider your musical style, skill level, and intended use to find the best match.

How much should I spend on hifi headphones?

Budget depends on your needs and experience level. Beginners can find quality options for $200-500, intermediate players should consider $500-1500 range, while professionals often invest $1500+ for premium features.

Are expensive hifi headphones worth the investment?

Higher-priced hifi headphones typically offer better materials, craftsmanship, and performance. They're worth it if you're serious about music, perform regularly, or need professional-grade features.

What are the best brands for hifi headphones?

Top brands combine quality, innovation, and reliability. We evaluate brands based on build quality, sound performance, durability, and customer satisfaction to recommend the best options for different budgets.

Should I buy hifi headphones online or in-store?

Both have advantages. Online offers better prices and selection, while stores allow hands-on testing. We recommend researching online first, then testing in stores if possible. Many online retailers offer excellent return policies.

Related charts

#1 · AudioFu Index 69Yamaha HPH-MT5 Closed-Back Monitor Headphones · $133€119
Check price ↗
 Check price ↗