Best headphones for drummers
A great pair of headphones should be on your list of items to purchase for drummers and wannabe drummers. Headphones are essential whether you are playing drums at home, recording tracks in the studio, or doing live concerts.
Good question. Drummers will tell you the first thing they notice about drum beats is how loud they are. Yep. There is no doubt that drums pack a punch and can shake the ground. You can imagine how much noise they produce.
The headphones minimize this sound, and background noise is blocked, so drummers can concentrate on what they are playing. As a result, they can focus better and avoid distractions.
Playing electric and acoustic drums without proper headphones is not advisable due to their high volume. The heart (which aligns its beat with the drumbeat) and ears must be taken care of.
With the right headphones, you can protect your hearing and prevent certain harmful frequencies from getting to your ears.
So, will regular headphones work?
No, it is not always like that. If you are attending a live show, you need headphones with noise isolation, noise cancellation, and good frequency response. You should also listen to the tracks the other band members are playing.
To figure out which headphones are best suited for drummers, we tried out different models with various features of drumming headphones and compiled a list.
The process to Follow While Buying Drummer Headphones
Are in-ear headphones better than on-ear headphones? The answer is both have their advantages and disadvantages.
A discreet, lightweight, easily portable pair of in-ear headphones will fit directly within your ear canal, are convenient, and are not easily noticeable. If you buy the better models, the sound quality will be excellent.
Many in-ear headphones are available on the market today. You can find one that suits your budget and is highly comfortable to wear. Some are lightweight, stylish, and have an amazing frequency range.
Other headphones are heavy, bulky, fall off, or overheat your ears due to the padding. So you have to choose a model based on your needs. We have listed some headphones below to assist you.
Alesis DRP100
In terms of sound quality and volume control, Alesis DRP100 headphones are the best headphones for drummers. They offer an over-ear design with a sweatproof headband and excellent sound quality.
The headphones come with 40mm full-range drivers designed for electronic drummers. The sound quality and reproduction of the sound are impressive.
Its wide frequency response lets us hear fine details in the tracks without missing them.
The second feature of these headphones is their super-high volume. The volume won’t be at full volume for us. I’m sure our ears will hurt from that.
Despite being lightweight, the headphones are sturdy enough to be used daily. The only thing we need to do is adjust them to fit every head properly.
Considering the sound isolation and frequency range capabilities of Alesis DRP100, it is a strong performer. Despite its length of six feet, the cord doesn’t get in the way. This is something we are very happy about.
Those who play electronic drums at home, in studios, or at concerts will find the Alesis DRP100 useful.
Check Price On AmazonVic Firth Stereo Isolation Headphones V2
There are no better drumming headphones than Vic Firth Stereo Isolation Headphones V2, which offer better stereo isolation and minimize sound bleeding than the first version.
First, the headphones can reduce outside noise by roughly 20-25 decibels. Although we would have preferred if the headphones also blocked the clicking noise of the sticks, they did work as promised. However, there is little sound leakage, which is a definite plus.
Second, we could fold the headphones easily and carry them around. Although they are made of plastic, they are quite sturdy and seem to last quite a while. Despite their padded earcups and headbands, they do not fit well for long-term use.
There is no doubt that Vic Firth Stereo Isolation Headphones V2 are superior to their predecessors. They are easy to maintain.
The seal is a nice touch as well. The fitting might be a little tight initially, but they loosen up after a few days.
These headphones sit well on the head and are not too heavy. With a frequency range of 20Hz to 20kHz, and an average sound quality that matches the price, they are not extraordinary, but they are not horrible either.
Check Price On AmazonWestone Audio Pro X20 IEM Earphones
If you are a drummer who prefers in-ear monitor headphones, Westone Audio’s Pro X20 may be the best choice.
In most lists, I include Westone because I have owned at least 8 sets of them and reviewed them as well. The UM Pro 50 is still my favorite.
The Pro X20 headphones are equipped with precision-tuned armature drivers, which have a huge influence on the number of details they can pick up and the texture of the sound they produce.
There is also a much greater frequency range on Westone Audio’s Pro X20 than is typical among high-end in-ear monitors. The tuning of both earpieces makes it stand out among high-end in-ear monitors.
The monitors now have matched acoustic symmetry in response to volume and dynamic changes in power output with surgical precision.
The lightweight but stable frame combined with the universal fit of Westone Audio’s Pro X20 headphones makes it the perfect headphone for most occasions. The only downside is the price, which all drummers cannot afford.
CCA CA24 IEM Earphone
There are many reasons drummers should consider CCA headphones the best headphones on the market. The brand’s newest model, CA24, offers highly flexible cables, superiorly robust construction, and precision-tuned drivers.
The IEMs feature innovative Moving Iron Technology, which is specially crafted to pick up on even the slightest vibrations. Drummers can benefit greatly from this technology since it enables them to notice more detail clearly.
Drummers can manually tweak the controls and specify the input ranges of all frequencies, even though CA24 monitors have already been tuned.
A resin cavity is complemented by a zinc alloy construction on CA24 in-ear monitors. These monitors are highly resistant to sweat and physical damage (according to IEM standards).
CA24’a ergonomic design makes wearing these in-ear monitors very comfortable. IEMs are not generally compliant with clamping pressure, but CA24 set the standard for comfort and convenience.
Check Price On AmazonOneOdio Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones A70
OneOdio Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones have a comfortable design and lightweight construction, making them the most portable headphones on the market.
As a first point, we enjoyed the over-ear design with soft memory ear pads. Although these headphones aren’t that suitable for large heads, the headband could be adjusted a good deal. They are also nice-looking and can be folded into small sizes when not in use.
A second advantage of the headphones is that they come with two audio jacks (3.5mm and 6.5mm) on each side to connect to other devices. They also have wireless Bluetooth connections. The best part is that they can connect to two devices at once.
OneOdio Bluetooth Over-Ear Headphones A70 are excellent Bluetooth over-ear headphones with punch bass. The treble could be better, but it is perfect for our use. The isolation is poor.
Thanks to the twist-lock design, the coiled cable is not in the way when drumming. We can use these headphones every day without worrying about durability or cost. They have an impressive battery life of 72 hours.
Check Price On AmazonRoland RH-5 Quality Comfort-Fit Headphones for Electronic Musical Instruments
Designed for drummers and musicians of all levels of experience, Roland RH-5 Quality Comfort-Fit headphones offer great comfort and lightweight design.
The first thing we like about these headphones is their look and feel. They are so comfortable and light on the head that we used them for more than four hours at a stretch without discomfort. Initially, the headphones were stiff, but they softened with use.
Second, the construction quality is excellent. The headphones work well with drums and electric guitars, and we didn’t notice any noise leakage. We could sometimes hear the click of the sticks, however.
With a 3mm cable, the Roland RH-5 provided sufficient space for us to move around while drumming. The conversion plug that we included was a nice touch by Roland.
Drummer headphones sound well-balanced, though they could be a little louder. They do the job now but can do even better if they are tweaked just a bit.
Check Price On AmazonKoss QZ-99 Noise Reduction Stereophone
The Koss QZ-99 Noise Reduction Stereophones have a balanced sound output and a well-built construction, which make them excellent isolation headphones.
It is quite comfortable to wear the headphones, especially since they have volume buttons on the ear cups. They are heavy too, but they fit nicely on the head and eliminate ambient noise we don’t want.
Additionally, they boast noise-canceling and acoustic isolation. The cord is long enough to allow us to move freely. If only they held up longer. The volume button is problematic towards the end of its lifespan.
Overall, we enjoyed using Koss QZ-99 headphones because they switched between mono and stereo sounds and could be used as studio headphones. However, the volume wasn’t great, so we had to crank the volume up a little bit.
We used the headphones primarily for drumming; therefore no complaints about the comfort or seal of the earmuffs. There are nicely padded ear cushions, and the earmours are very well sealed.
Check Price On AmazonTascam TH-02 Closed Back Studio Headphones
There is no doubt that Tascam’s TH-02 is one of the best entry-level headphones available. As far as its versatility, sound quality, and connectivity are concerned, it provides a decent balance.
Despite lacking excellence in any area, it outperforms nearly all similarly-prices alternatives.
Aside from being affordable, Tascam’s TH-02 headphones are popular due to their reliable passive noise cancellation technology. With large, comfortable muffs, these headphones effectively eliminate ambient noise, allowing drummers to concentrate on their playing.
Though they aren’t the sturdiest headphones, their headbands, joints, muffs, and hardware are. Their cable, however, is thin and flimsy.
In a recording studio, TH-02 headphones provide a tight fit, but drummers looking for headphones for practice sessions may find the stitching disconcerting.
TH-2 headphones are compact, boasting a foldable design that fits gigging drummers perfectly while providing a standard frequency response with a slightly enhanced bass response.
Check Price On AmazonBose Noise Cancelling Headphones 700
Bose’s 700 is an excellent choice for drummers seeking cans for practicing, rehearsing, and casual listening to music, even though it wasn’t explicitly designed for musicians.
A notable feature of Bose Headphones 700 is adaptive noise cancellation technology. Eleven noise reduction settings can be selected according to intensity, so drummers can muffle background noise, completely drown out sounds from the outside, or do anything in between.
It delivers outstanding sonic performance throughout the listening experience, with powerful bass, pronounced mids, and detailed highs.
In addition to being wireless, Bose 700 can play music continuously for twenty hours on a single charge. The in-built battery is fully rechargeable and has a consistent performance level.
In addition to its high price, one of its main disadvantages is the absence of Bose Connect app support. The app allows users to connect multiple audio sources with Bose Headphones seamlessly and would be especially useful to drummers.
Check Price On AmazonDCMEKA Dynamic Hybrid Wired Earbuds
DCMEKA’s dynamic hybrid wired earbuds open our official segment of the best headphones for drummers reviews.
Many drummers use this pair of in-ear headphones as a backup. With a durable braided cable, DCMEKA’s headphones are more durable than entry-level models.
These DCMEKA headphones sound surprising well for a low-cost product. They deliver detailed highs with excellent frequency response, but highs with excellent frequency response, but they fall short on mids and bass. They are quite comfortable for short-term listening, but they weren’t designed for three-hour listening.
For drummers who cannot afford better headphones, DCMEKA’s in-ear headphones are more of a decent alternative. The cable is sturdy, but the hardware and core aren’t as much, and the frequency response is mediocre.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50X headphone is the fifth generation in Audio-Technica’s M20X series. If offers better performance to studio drummers at a higher price but with more features.
A neutral sound signature is the only thing that all M-series ATHs share. As for innovations, the 45mm drivers on the M50X have improved impedance, sound clarity, and more robust power handling.
The M50X has the same circumaural design as its predecessors but features swiveling earcups, which improve sound monitoring by enhancing the cup’s flexibility.
In terms of aesthetics, Audio-Technica’s ATH M50X is available in four color variations: black, gunmetal, white, and metallic orange. In addition, drummers can choose between wireless and wired models. Designed for recording drummers and sweat-proof, these headphones provide superior comfort.
Check Price On AmazonCanpur JF1 Wired In-Ear Monitor Earphones for Drummers
The Canpur JF1 is an affordable mid-range IEM for drummers looking for a better-surrounding, more well-rounded pair of headphones.
Although JF1 cannot negate all outside sounds, it does an excellent job of muffling external sounds, even when the environment is exceptionally loud. Namely, these cans can block as much as 90% of external noise.
With its single dynamic magnet, JF1 in-ear monitors enhance detail, even if they don’t cover a large range of frequencies. Although drummers may not hear their kick drums as clearly, they will benefit from a more vivid listening experience.
Additionally, JF1 offers exception value for the price thanks to the complementary accessories (six pairs of earplugs in S, M, and L sizes) that come with the package.
Check Price On AmazonKAT Percussion KTUI26 Ultra Isolation Headphones
For professional drummers who record music frequently and beginners who attend lessons at home, the KAT Percussion KTUI26 Ultra Isolation Headphones are the most durable studio headphones available.
Adjusting the volume is unnecessary because the headphones block external sounds. The noise isolation is good without canceling all the sounds out. We hear enough drumbeat to remain aware of it.
Additionally, the headphones are good for studio recording and work well with acoustic drums. There was only minimal sound bleeding and almost no ear fatigue from long recording sessions.
As a result, if your television or soundbar is located relatively close to the wall, it is ideal to use the VANAUX optical audio cable since optical fiber cables of sufficient quality might not have enough room. It is very helpful to have equipment like the VANAUX 90 Degree Optical Audio Cable in this situation.
Check Price On AmazonCAD Audio DH100 Drummer Isolation Headphones
Recording studios and stage performances will benefit from using CAD Audio DH100 Drummer Isolation Headphones.
In addition to reducing external noise by 19 decibels, these headphones come at a pocket-friendly price and look rugged. Given the bulky design and weight, these headphones seem quite durable.
Furthermore, the drivers are decent, even if we cannot claim that the headphones are of excellent sound quality. They reproduce sound clearly without muffles, so that is a plus.
Our experience is that the CAD Audio DH100 Drummer Isolation Headphones offer noise isolation and can be used at a quiet volume. We didn’t even have to turn up the volume to 50%. The headphones first seem tight, but they break in as you use them.
In the entry-level range, these can hold their own against VIC Firth or Audio Technica. Whether we play at home or outside, we can rely on them.
Check Price On AmazonBASN Professional in Ear Monitor Headphones
Professional musicians, singers, and drummers prefer BASN Professional Headphones because they are cost-effective and produce a balanced sound.
First of all, we love how comfortable these headphones are. We were able to play the drums for hours with them without feeling fatigued.
Second, the silicone tips ensure maximal sound cancellation. According to the manufacturer, they are a natural-fitting noise-isolating model. We didn’t notice any ambient noise when recording music or performing.
The BASN Professional blocks 38dB of noise, making it the highest performing headphone on our list. The headphone cable can be adjusted using a memory wire, and six silicone tips are included in the package.
Choosing the right ear tips is very important. You can easily replace the MMCX connector. We are concerned about the durability of these IEM headphones, but we are satisfied with how they perform.
Check Price On AmazonKZ ZS10 Pro in Ear Monitor Headphones
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These drum in-ear monitor headphones are available in six colors and are quite lightweight, making them the best drum headphones on the market.
It is worth mentioning the build quality of these earphones, which are constructed of skin-friendly resin and stainless steel faceplates. We appreciate how well they fit in the ears, but the manufacturers only provide three extra pairs of ear tips.
Secondly, the earphones have five drivers. That gives them a punch and clear sound when we practice drumming. The manufacturer’s 2-pin design of the earphones with the cable removable and re-attachable is a good move.
Having said that, KZ ZS10 Pro is in line with the popularity of other KZ models, despite their lower price and lack of exceptional features. We plan to upgrade the cable in the future, so this won’t be an issue.
The dynamic drivers have a wide frequency range, with a prominent, mid, and high-frequency bass. These are real IEM models and can be a worthy purchase for drummers.
Check Price On AmazonLieront LT006 Noise Cancelling Wireless Headphones
With the Lieront LT006 model, we are starting our exploration of the best wireless headphones for drummers at lower price points.
While not the most recent Bluetooth version, these headphones offer a good, fast, reliable connection despite being among the cheapest.
Lieront’s LT006 headphones also feature active noise cancellation, which is not too common among low-end wireless headphones. While this feature is not configurable (unlike Bose 700), it still reduces ambient noise within fairly loud environments.
While it has some drawbacks, including the relatively restricted frequency response range, a short battery life, and low durability, its saving grace is the expanded bass response, making it more suited to drummers than other musicians.
Check Price On AmazonSony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
The Sony MDR7506 headphones offer great sound and dependable performance and are a favorite of professional session drummers.
With a 40mm driver, the MDR7506 can produce similar sound quality and consistency. Its closed-ear design offers unparalleled passive noise cancellation, preventing noise from entering or existing.
In addition, the ear cups on Sony’s MDR7506 are large enough to cover your ears without causing excessive clamping pressure. Sony’s MDR7506 has a frequency range of 10 to 20,000 Hz, which means its floor frequencies are increased by 10 (instead of 20).
The MDR7506 has a braided cable that is robust and sturdy, allowing drummers to use it for years to come. However, it is a bit dearer than average.
Check Price On Amazon
Things to look for in Headphones for Drummers
Sound quality
The right headphones are vital to your performance as a drummer. They must provide a clear and balanced sound so you can hear the rest of the band and perform well.
Comfort
The headphones drummers use the most are over-ear headphones and in-ear monitors. Since practice sessions and gigs can last for hours, comfort is an important aspect of headphones. It all depends on what you prefer regarding your comfort level.
Weight
Nothing is worse than paying for a pair of over-ear headphones 10 pounds heavier than your head. Especially when it comes to over-ear headphones, you want them to be as light as possible without compromising the overall design of the earphones.
Cable length
The distance between where you sit and your laptop, phone, or mixer should be measured, so you can choose a cable that will accommodate this distance. When all else fails, headphone extension cords are there to make life a little easier.
Frequency Response
You won’t want to miss out on vital details during a crowded show so you will want headphones with higher frequency response. If you are just starting, a frequency response of 20Hz to 20kHz is sufficient.
Noise reduction levels
Drummers cannot avoid the noise, making noise reduction one of the most important features to look for when buying headphones. Noise reduction lowers the volume of your kit, and at the same time, since your kit volume is slower, the volume of the music you are listening to is also lower.
Durability
Headphones used by drummers must be of good build quality. The headphones should be robust enough to withstand rough handling and withstand the surrounding activity. Delicate and fragile headphones will not last long.
Sturdiness
Nevertheless, you should also consider the headphones’ weight. Heavy models may be sturdy, but they are uncomfortable to ear on a long-term basis. Opt for lightweight yet durable headphones.
Frequently Asked Questions About Drum Headphones
Why Do Drummers Wear Headphones?
To reduce the noise to secure levels and prevent hearing loss over time, drummers mainly wear headphones. Using headphones allows the outside volume to be kept at a safer level and minimizes distractions.
What Do Drummers Listen To in Their Headphones?
For drummers to sync their drumming with the rest of the band, they usually listen to a click sound. Staying on top of the beat and maintaining the rhythm is made easier by clicking sounds.
Can I use the drumming headphones for music from my tablet?
There is no doubt that drumming headphones are high-quality headphones with everything you need to create high-quality sounds. This way, you can listen to your playlist through your headphones while using your tablet.
Is it easy to use drumming headphones?
There are manuals included with the headphones to help you quickly configure them to your preferred music set.
The next step will be to tune them so that you can listen to the music. For more information about features like noise-canceling, make sure you read the guide thoroughly.
Conclusion
We hope you have the necessary information for buying headphones to enter the music industry as a favorite drummer.
Also, we recommend Alesis DRP100 headphones for impressive noise reduction, affordability, and the ability to work with electronic drums. We also recommend Vic Firth isolation headphones for comfort and design and KZ ZS10 Pro for stylish IEM headphones.
However, take your time to understand the pros and cons of each model before you finalize a pair of headphones.
Talk to other band members and ask for their opinions. However, remember that the best drum headphones are the ones that have been designed for drummers and not other musical instruments.