You had to contend with a skewed stereo perception, a skewed depth perception with reverbs, and a skewed frequency spectrum due to the natural low end rolloff of headphones. Midrange can also be a challenge for many headphones, as there can be weird fluctuations across some vital frequency ranges that affect guitars and vocals. But times change, and this “rule” about mixing with headphones is no longer a limitation. In fact, with modern systems in place people are opting to mix largely on their headphones. They can use them anywhere, the acoustics of their room are never a hindrance, and the headphones can be calibrated to be more accurate. So let’s talk about mixing with headphones. My cans of choice are AKG K 240 MK II Stereo Studio Headphones. I didn’t choose them because they’re superior, I chose them because I had them. They are comfortable, and sound excellent. I personally wouldn’t mix on something that wasn’t intended for studio use in some capacity unless I could calibrate it effectively as described below. If it’s a quick edit, or something where I’m making a rough balance for reference, then it matters less. But if I’m thinking critically, the last thing I want is any sort of hype in my headphones. ![]() Studio headphones were designed to be worn for extended periods. They were designed to be reasonably flat, although it’s difficult to get a pair that are actually flat in response without shelling out some cash. There’s a lot of headphone options on the market, and the prices have become quite reasonable. You can find a decent pair of AKG’s for about $70, as well as comparable sets from Samson and Audio Technica. For mixing, I’d try to stay in that price range or above, but I only advise that because I’ve not had experience with options below that price. If you find a pair that is comfortable, isn’t hyped, and costs less than $50, feel free to try them. ![]() That said, typically the more they cost the flatter they naturally will respond. There are times when a pair of headphones that are hyped may be applicable in a studio setting. For example, giving a pair of Beats By Dre to a rapper isn’t a bad idea. The hyped low end will make the beat feel bigger, and that may help them get more into the performance when tracking. You could also check your mixes out through your favorite Skull Candy set while going on a jog to see how it stacks up in a real world setting. But for mixing or any sort of critical listening, I would avoid hyped headphones like the plague (unless you can calibrate them to correct them.) When making the actual eq and balance moves they will give you a false impression of what’s going on. They’re designed to sound good for consumers, not to sound flat for audio professionals. ![]() Once you’ve chosen your headphones, you need to learn how they sound.
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