When choosing headphones for guitar amps, it is important to select sound quality, comfort, and compatibility to make sure an immersive and accurate listening experience. The right headphones will deliver clear audio reproduction. It handle the dynamics of your amplifier without distortion, and remain comfortable during extended sessions. Below is a display list of the top 10 headphones designed specifically to meet the needs of guitarists, along with their detailed specifications, pros and cons, usage tips, and links for purchase.
Types of Headphones for Guitar Amp:
There are different types of headphones for guitar amp:
- Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Sennheiser HD 280 PRO
- AKG K240 Studio
- Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO
- Shure SRH840
- Sony MDR-7506
- Focal Listen Professional
- Yamaha HPH-MT8
- Philips SHP9600
- AKG K371
1. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x – Studio-Level Monitoring with Guitar Amp Headphones
These closed-back headphones are renowned for their exceptional clarity and deep bass response, making them ideal for guitar amplification.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 28 kHz
- Impedance: 38 ohms
- Driver Size: 45 mm
- Connectivity: Wired (detachable cable)
Pros:
- Excellent sound isolation
- Comfortable ear pads suitable for extended use
- Durable build quality
- Collapsible design for portability
- Includes multiple detachable cables
Cons:
- May feel tight for users with larger heads
- Non-breathable ear pads can cause heat buildup
- Lacks an in-line microphone
- No wireless connectivity
- Soundstage may feel narrow to some users
How to Use:
- Connect the appropriate cable to your guitar amp’s headphone output. Adjust the headband for a comfortable fit and ensure the ear cups fully enclose your ears for optimal sound isolation.
2. Sennheiser HD 280 PRO– Closed-Back Headphones for Guitar Amp Sessions
Designed for professional monitoring, these headphones offer accurate sound reproduction and effective ambient noise isolation.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 8 Hz – 25 kHz
- Impedance: 64 ohms
- Driver Size: Not specified
- Connectivity: Wired
Perks That Elevate Your Playing
- 32 dB passive noise attenuation
- 8Hz–25kHz frequency range
- Closed-ear design for focused listening
- Durable, foldable headband
- Replaceable parts (cable, pads, headband)
- Accurate mids and highs
- Minimal sound leakage
- 64-ohm impedance (great for amps/interfaces)
- Lightweight at 285g
- Long 3m coiled cable
Cons:
- Coiled cable may be cumbersome for some users
- Tight clamping force initially
- Lacks a detachable cable
- No included carrying case
- Design may feel bulky to some users
How to Use:
- Plug the fixed cable into your amp’s headphone jack. Adjust the headband and ear cups for a snug fit to ensure optimal noise isolation.
3. AKG K240 Studio – Semi-Open Headphones for Guitar Amp Monitoring
These semi-open headphones provide a natural sound, suitable for guitar practice and studio mixing.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 25 kHz
- Impedance: 55 ohms
- Driver Size: 30 mm
- Connectivity: Wired (detachable mini XLR cable)
What Sets Them Apart
- Semi-open design for airy tone
- 30mm XXL transducers for precision
- Self-adjusting headband
- Detachable mini XLR cable
- Frequency range: 15Hz–25kHz
- 55-ohm impedance for amp compatibility
- Comfortable velour padding
- Accurate stereo imaging
- Ideal for clean and ambient guitar tones
- Lightweight (240g) for long sessions
Pros:
- Self-adjusting headband for comfort
- Lightweight design
- Detachable cable for easy replacement
- Balanced sound suitable for various music genres
- Affordable price point
Cons:
- Semi-open design allows sound leakage
- Bass response may be lacking for some users
- Build quality feels less robust
- Non-foldable design
- Ear pads may wear out over time
How to Use:
- Attach the mini XLR cable to the headphones and connect the other end to your amp. The self-adjusting headband will conform to your head for a comfortable fit.
4. Beyer dynamic DT 770 PRO – Premium Closed-Back Headphones for Guitarists
Known for their detailed sound and robust construction, these closed-back headphones are favored by many professionals.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 35 kHz
- Impedance: Available in 32, 80, and 250 ohms
- Driver Size: Not specified
- Connectivity: Wired
Distinctive Audio Highlights
- Available in 32, 80, and 250 ohm versions
- 45mm drivers deliver punchy lows
- Frequency range: 5Hz–35kHz
- Comfortable velour earpads
- Sturdy steel headband
- Coiled 3m cable (non-detachable)
- Excellent dynamic range
- Built for studio and amp monitoring
- Superb for distortion-heavy guitar tones
- Handcrafted in Germany
Cons:
- Non-detachable cable
- Clamping force may feel tight initially
- Bulky design not ideal for portability
- Higher impedance versions require a headphone amp
- Ear pads may need replacement over time
How to Use:
- Plug the fixed cable into your guitar amp’s headphone output. Choose the impedance model that suits your amp and listening preferences (lower impedance for casual use, higher impedance for studio-grade fidelity). Adjust the headband for a secure fit.
5. Shure SRH840 – Accurate Response Headphones for Guitar Amp Tones
These closed-back headphones are tailored for critical listening and studio work, delivering detailed audio reproduction.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 25 kHz
- Impedance: 44 ohms
- Driver Size: 40 mm
- Connectivity: Wired (detachable cable)
Sound Clarity Features
- 40mm neodymium drivers
- Tuned frequency response (5Hz–25kHz)
- Closed-back for isolation
- Padded and adjustable headband
- Detachable 3m coiled cable
- Replaceable ear pads
- Accurate and flat tuning
- Foldable design with carry pouch
- Ideal for critical listening
- Low distortion, even at high volume
Cons:
- Heavy for some users
- Headband padding could be softer
- Cable is coiled, which some users might not prefer
- Closed-back design limits soundstage
- May not be ideal for high-impedance amps
How to Use:
- Connect the detachable cable to your amp. Adjust the headband and ear cups for comfort, ensuring a good seal for optimal sound quality. Use the carrying pouch for safe storage when not in use.
6. Sony MDR-7506 – Reliable Monitoring Headphones for Guitar Amp Sessions
A staple in studios worldwide, these headphones offer crisp and balanced sound, making them a great choice for guitar amps.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 10 Hz – 20 kHz
- Impedance: 63 ohms
- Driver Size: 40 mm
- Connectivity: Wired (non-detachable cable)
Practical Audio Benefits
- 40mm drivers with neodymium magnets
- Frequency response: 10Hz–20kHz
- Foldable and lightweight (229g)
- Closed-ear design reduces ambient noise
- 63-ohm impedance (amp-friendly)
- Durable coiled cable (9.8 feet)
- Clear highs and mids
- Includes soft case and adapter
- Legendary build quality
- Ideal for both clean and distorted tones
Cons:
- Non-detachable cable
- Coiled cable may be inconvenient
- Limited bass response
- Ear pads wear out quickly
- Tight fit for larger heads
How to Use:
- Plug the fixed cable into your amp’s headphone jack. Adjust the folding design for portability when traveling, and replace ear pads as needed for continued comfort.
7. Focal Listen Professional – High-Fidelity Headphones for Guitar Amps
These closed-back headphones combine excellent comfort with a dynamic and detailed sound, ideal for discerning guitarists.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 22 kHz
- Impedance: 32 ohms
- Driver Size: 40 mm
- Connectivity: Wired (detachable cable)
Elite-Level Features
- 40mm Mylar/Titanium drivers
- Frequency response: 5Hz–22kHz
- Memory foam earpads for comfort
- Closed-back design
- Lightweight (280g) and foldable
- Detachable 1.4m and 5m cables included
- Excellent stereo imaging
- Minimal distortion at high volumes
- Precise low-end for heavy guitar styles
- Made in France – pro-level design
Cons:
- Slightly expensive
- Soundstage could be wider
- Ear cups may feel small for some users
- Non-collapsible design
- Limited bass extension
How to Use:
- Attach the detachable cable and connect to your amp. Use the included case for safe transport and storage. Ensure the ear cups fit snugly for optimal audio performance.
8. Yamaha HPH-MT8 – Studio-Grade Headphones for Guitar Amps and Mixers
Designed for studio monitoring, these headphones provide precise sound reproduction, making them suitable for guitar amp use.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 28 kHz
- Impedance: 37 ohms
- Driver Size: 45 mm
- Connectivity: Wired (detachable cable)
What Guitarists Will Appreciate
- 45mm custom drivers
- Frequency range: 15Hz–28kHz
- Closed-back design for full isolation
- Detachable straight and coiled cables
- Lightweight aluminum housing
- Soft leatherette ear cushions
- Adjustable headband
- Flat, accurate monitoring
- Durable hinge design
- Ideal for amp tone shaping and mixing
Cons:
- Limited bass extension for some users
- Slightly bulky ear cups
- Higher price point
- Not foldable for portability
- Ear pads may feel firm initially
How to Use:
- Connect the detachable cable to your amp. Adjust the headband for a secure fit and use the appropriate cable type (coiled or straight) based on your preference
9. Philips SHP9600 – Open-Back Headphones for Expressive Guitar Amp Tones
A budget-friendly option with open-back design, providing an airy and natural soundstage for guitar practice.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 12 Hz – 35 kHz
- Impedance: 32 ohms
- Driver Size: 50 mm
- Connectivity: Wired (detachable cable)
Tone Enhancement Traits
- 50mm drivers for rich bass and detail
- 12Hz–35kHz frequency response
- Open-back design with wide stage
- 32-ohm impedance
- 3.5mm jack + 6.3mm adapter
- Lightweight at 315g
- Breathable ear cushions
- Balanced across frequencies
- Ideal for clean reverb tones
- Durable and comfortable frame
Cons:
- Open-back design leaks sound
- Limited noise isolation
- Bass may lack depth
- Build quality is not premium
- Not ideal for noisy environments
How to Use:
Connect the detachable cable to your amp. Use these headphones in quiet settings for the best experience, as they are open-back and do not block external noise.
10. AKG K371 – Closed-Back Studio Headphones for Amp Practice
These closed-back headphones combine portability with studio-grade sound, offering deep bass and clear mids for guitarists.
Specifications:
- Frequency Response: 5 Hz – 40 kHz
- Impedance: 32 ohms
- Driver Size: 50 mm
- Connectivity: Wired (detachable cables)
Detailed Listening Highlights
- Titanium-coated 50mm drivers
- 5Hz–40kHz wide frequency response
- Closed-back with foldable design
- Includes 3 cables (coiled and straight)
- Memory foam ear pads
- Lightweight and ergonomic fit
- Balanced tuning with extended highs
- Flat curve perfect for guitar EQing
- Gold-plated connectors
- Comes with carrying pouch and adapters
Cons:
- Ear cups may feel small for some users
- Cable connectors are proprietary
- Slightly higher price for casual users
- Closed-back design limits soundstage
- Build quality could feel less robust
- How to Use:
Attach one of the included detachable cables to the headphones and plug it into your amp. Adjust the foldable design for convenient storage when not in use.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, selecting the right headphones for your guitar amp can significantly enhance your practice and recording experience. Whether you prioritize sound clarity, comfort, or portability, the headphones listed above cater to various needs and preferences. By considering the specifications, pros, and cons, you can make an informed decision to match your playing style and equipment. Invest in a pair that suits your requirements, and enjoy an improved and immersive listening experience during your guitar sessions.
