AudioFu Chart · November 2026
Best Studio Headphones Under $500 2026
The top pick is AKG K240 Studio Headphones ($76). PreSonus HD7 Professional On-Ear Monitoring Headphones gives you the most for the money at $48. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x-WH Professional Studio Monitor Headphones leads the high end. Ranked by the AudioFu Index from 78 models across 27 brands, prices checked every night.
Last updated: November 1, 2026
Top 10
Full detail for the 10 highest AudioFu Index scores. Every other model is listed below.
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The AKG K-240 Studio is a solid workhorse for tracking, mixing, and critical listening on a budget. They provide a surprisingly accurate and revealing sound, especially considering the price point. Great for home studios, students, or anyone needing a reliable, comfortable pair of headphones without breaking the bank.
Pros
- XXL capsule delivers surprisingly wide and detailed soundstage
- Semi-open design offers a more natural, less isolating listening experience
- Detachable mini-XLR cable adds durability and reduces cable clutter
Cons
- Plastic headband and earcups feel a bit budget-oriented for serious studio work
- Semi-open design isn’t ideal for noise isolation in loud environments
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Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 Ohm Open-Back Over-Ear Monitoring…
DT-990 Pro 250 Ohm · beyerdynamic
29 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
These DT-990 Pros are a classic for a reason. They offer a really spacious, detailed sound that's fantastic for mixing and critical listening, but they need a decent headphone amp to truly shine. If you're a producer or musician needing accurate monitoring and comfortable long-term wear, these are a solid choice.
Pros
- Velvet earcups provide exceptional long-listening comfort, even for hours.
- Detailed, diffuse-field EQ delivers a wide, immersive soundstage.
- Robust construction with replaceable parts increases longevity and value.
Cons
- High impedance requires a powerful amplifier for optimal performance.
- Open design isn't ideal for noisy environments or critical listening in shared spaces.
64AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$165 now$165€148 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Studio Monitor Headphones
ATH-M40X · Audio-Technica
71 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The ATH-M40X is a solid choice for musicians, podcasters, and audio enthusiasts needing a reliable, accurate, and affordable monitoring solution. They offer a clean, neutral sound profile ideal for critical listening and mixing, and the swivel cups make them comfortable for long sessions. These are a great entry point into serious studio headphones without breaking the bank.
Pros
- CCAW voice coils deliver a surprisingly detailed and balanced sound signature
- 90-degree swivel earcups offer comfortable and adaptable positioning
- Detachable cables enhance portability and allow for easy replacement
Cons
- The plastic construction, while lightweight, feels somewhat budget-oriented
- Soundstage can feel a bit constricted for critical mixing applications
62AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$120 now$120€107 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Closed Back Headphones
ATH-M30X · Audio-Technica
49 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The ATH-M30X are a solid entry-level studio headphone. They offer a surprisingly clean and accurate sound for the price, making them great for budding producers, podcasters, or anyone needing reliable monitoring. The swivel design is a nice touch for mixing and tracking.
Pros
- Clear, balanced soundstage ideal for critical listening
- Durable construction with robust headband and earcups
- 90-degree swivel allows for comfortable monitoring and single-ear use
Cons
- Bass response can feel slightly lacking for bass-heavy genres
- Cable, while long, is not detachable, increasing risk of damage
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Audio-Technica ATH-M50x-WH Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
ATH-M50X · Audio-Technica
27 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
The ATH-M50X are a workhorse for tracking, mixing, and critical listening. They deliver a clear, detailed sound with a bit of extra low-end that's great for modern genres, and their build quality is genuinely impressive for the price. Perfect for producers, audio engineers, and serious music enthusiasts needing reliable, accurate headphones.
Pros
- Excellent transient response for accurate monitoring
- Robust construction with well-secured headband swivel joints
- Comfortable for extended use thanks to the faux leather earpads
Cons
- Bass can be slightly emphasized, potentially muddying mixes
- Closed-back design limits soundstage and natural ambience
58AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
RODE NTH-100 Professional Over Ear Headphones
NTH-100 · Rode
21 for sale on Reverb3 finishes at Thomann
The NTH-100s are surprisingly solid headphones for the price. They're built like a tank with those Alcantara pads making long sessions a breeze – perfect for podcasters, engineers tracking drums, or anyone needing accurate, reliable monitoring without breaking the bank. Just be aware they're a bit heavy and the closed-back design keeps the sound contained.
Pros
- Alcantara ear cushions provide luxurious comfort for extended tracking sessions.
- Robust spring steel headband ensures durability and long-term reliability.
- CoolTech gel ear pads prevent overheating during critical mixing tasks.
Cons
- The 344g weight can be fatiguing during prolonged use, especially for smaller heads.
- Closed-back design limits soundstage; not ideal for critical listening requiring spaciousness.
57AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$134 now$134€120 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
AIAIAI TMA-2 Studio Wireless+ Modular Headphones
TMA-2 Studio XE · AIAIAI
8 for sale on Reverb5 finishes at Thomann
This pair feels great on your ears with soft padding and a light build. The big driver moves air well for mixing, though you can't tell exactly how loud it gets. It works best for studios or quiet rooms where you need clean audio without distractions.
Pros
- Lightweight bio-cellulose diaphragm for fast, accurate sound
- 40 mm high grade neodymium driver handles low frequencies well
- 1.5 m straight cable keeps desk space clean and tidy
Cons
- No sensitivity rating makes volume matching impossible
- Single 3.5 mm jack limits connection options
54AudioFu
IndexStableno change since Aug 17Aug 17$166 now$166€149 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗ -
PreSonus HD7 Professional On-Ear Monitoring Headphones
HD7 · Presonus
26 for sale on Reverb1 finish at Thomann
The HD7s are a surprisingly capable pair of headphones for budget-conscious producers and casual listeners. They offer a relatively flat frequency response with a pleasing emphasis on bass that doesn't overwhelm. If you need a solid, reliable pair for tracking, mixing, or just enjoying music without spending a fortune, these are a solid choice.
Pros
- Surprisingly balanced sound for the price point
- Neodymium drivers deliver tight, controlled low-end response
- Comfortable circumaural design for extended listening sessions
Cons
- Plastic build feels a bit flimsy compared to higher-end options
- Half-open design leaks sound, not ideal for quiet environments
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These Sony 7506s are a studio staple for a reason. They deliver a remarkably accurate and detailed sound, making them perfect for engineers, producers, and serious musicians needing reliable monitoring. While not the most luxurious, their durability and neutral response are hard to beat for the price.
Pros
- Durable construction with robust headband clamping force
- Neutral, revealing sound signature for critical listening
- Detachable cable reduces risk of damage and simplifies replacement
Cons
- Can be uncomfortable for extended use due to clamping pressure
- Plain aesthetic lacks premium feel and style
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Avantone Pro MP-1 MixPhones Over-Ear Headphones
Mixphones MP-1 Black · Avantone
12 for sale on Reverb2 finishes at Thomann
These Avantones are a surprisingly good option for critical listening and nearfield monitoring. They don't sugarcoat anything – you’ll hear exactly what's in your mix, which is perfect for engineers and producers needing an honest reference. Just be prepared for a bit of weight and a tighter feel.
Pros
- Robust plastic construction feels surprisingly durable for the price.
- Large 50mm drivers deliver a surprisingly flat, revealing frequency response.
- Detachable cables offer convenience and protect against accidental damage.
Cons
- The 550g weight can become fatiguing during extended listening sessions.
- Soundstage is noticeably narrow, lacking the airiness of open-back designs.
50AudioFu
Index↓ 6.7%since Aug 17 · lowest so far$166 · Aug 17$155 now$155€139 at Thomann · in stockCheck price ↗
All 78 studio headphones
Same index, same nightly prices — compact. Colour options of one model share a row. Tap a photo to zoom.
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Audio-Technica ATH-R70XA Open Back HeadphonesATH-R70xa · Audio-Technica50Stable$390€349$390€349Check ↗
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Superlux HD-681 BSuperlux · 5 finishes49Stable$25€22$25€22Check ↗
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Superlux HD-662 BK EvoSuperlux · 5 finishes49Stable$33€30$33€30Check ↗
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beyerdynamic DT-770 Pro 250 Ohmbeyerdynamic · 5 finishes49Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
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PreSonus HD9 Professional Closed-Back Over-Ear Monitoring HeadphonesHD9 · Presonus48Stable$64€57$64€57Check ↗
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AKG K 271 MKIIK-271 MKII · AKG48Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
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Focal Listen Professional Closed Back Headphones - 32 OhmsListen Professional · Focal47↓ 2.1%$213€191$213€191Check ↗
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Superlux HD-660 Pro 150 OhmsSuperlux · 2 finishes46↓ 8.3%$37€33$37€33Check ↗
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AKG K361 Closed Back Headphones - 32 OhmsK-361 · AKG46↑ 2.2%$105€94$105€94Check ↗
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Warm Audio WA-HRT HeadRoom TanWarm Audio44Stable$144€129$144€129Check ↗
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Kali Audio HP-1Kali Audio44Stable$184€165$184€165Check ↗
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Beyerdynamic DT 250 Closed Back Headphones - 80 OhmsDT-250/80 · beyerdynamic · 2 finishes44Stable$267€239$267€239Check ↗
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RODE NTH-50 On Ear Headphones - 32 OhmsNTH-50 · Rode43Stable$103€92$103€92Check ↗
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Superlux HD-668 BSuperlux · 2 finishes42Stable$32€29$32€29Check ↗
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Superlux HD-330 Pro 32 OhmsSuperlux · 2 finishes42Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
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Superlux HD-990 32 OhmsSuperlux · 2 finishes42Stable$55€49$55€49Check ↗
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Austrian Audio Hi-X15 Professional HeadphonesHi-X15 · Austrian Audio42Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
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AKG K371 BT Wireless Closed Back HeadphonesK-371 · AKG42Stable$166€149$166€149Check ↗
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Sony MDR-MV1 Open Back Headphones - 24 OhmsMDR-MV1 · Sony39Stable$441€395$441€395Check ↗
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Sennheiser HD-480 PROSennheiser · 2 finishes39↓ 1.0%$441€395$441€395Check ↗
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Sennheiser HD-300 ProSennheiser · 2 finishes38Stable$184€165$184€165Check ↗
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Superlux HD-669Superlux37Stable$28€25$28€25Check ↗
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Superlux HD-667Superlux37Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
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Superlux HD-665Superlux37Stable$61€55$61€55Check ↗
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beyerdynamic DT-270 Probeyerdynamic37Stable$111€99$111€99Check ↗
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beyerdynamic DT 275 Probeyerdynamic37Stable$133€119$133€119Check ↗
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Austrian Audio Hi-X25BT Professional Over-Ear Bluetooth HeadphonesHi-X25BT · Austrian Audio37Stable$155€139$155€139Check ↗
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beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO Xbeyerdynamic37↓ 0.9%$255€228$255€228Check ↗
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beyerdynamic DT-100/400-Bbeyerdynamic37Stable$256€229$256€229Check ↗
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beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO Xbeyerdynamic37Stable$263€235$263€235Check ↗
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beyerdynamic DT-150beyerdynamic37Stable$273€244$273€244Check ↗
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Austrian Audio Hi-X60 Closed Back Headphones - 25 OhmsHi-X60 · Austrian Audio37Stable$327€293$327€293Check ↗
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Fostex T40RP-MK3 HeadphoneFostex36Stable$184€165$184€165Check ↗
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Fostex T20RP-Mk3 HeadphoneFostex36Stable$196€175$196€175Check ↗
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Fostex T50RPmk4Fostex36Stable$274€245$274€245Check ↗
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Fostex T50RPmk4CLFostex36Stable$274€245$274€245Check ↗
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Fostex T50RPmk4QFostex36Stable$379€339$379€339Check ↗
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AKG K-612 ProAKG35Stable$165€148$165€148Check ↗
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AKG K-712 ProAKG35Stable$307€275$307€275Check ↗
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OneOdio Pro 20 BlackOneOdio34Stable$44€39$44€39Check ↗
Studio Headphones by the numbers
Measured across all 108 models we track, not a sample.
Median $144 — half of all studio headphones here cost less.
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 108 studio 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 studio 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 studio 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 studio headphones worth the investment?
Higher-priced studio 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 studio 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 studio 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.
