Some would argue that certain types of audio equipment should be used to listen to certain types of music, but at the end of the day, a high-quality pair of headphones can get the job done admirably whether you’re into rock, pop, jazz or any other music genre. Today we’re going to present a top 10 containing the best hi-fi headphones available on the market, you know, the ones that are wired and are able to deliver irreproachable sound quality. All you have to do is pick one that suits your needs, tastes and budget.
Grado SR80E Prestige Series
Even though it’s one of the most affordable products on our list, the Grado SR80E Prestige Series is actually a dependable and respectable product that boasts a 4-conductor copper connector as well as sound-isolating capabilities. These two features enable exceptional bass resonance, and we should also mention the resonant air chamber, vented diaphragm, large ear cushions and the adjustable headband made out of vinyl. The ¼” adapter that comes in the box is also a big plus.
Audio Technica ATH-M50X
Those of you who are familiar with Audio Technica’s M-Series headphones will definitely appreciate this special version of this model, as it provides the same wide range of frequencies as well as detachable cables for extra convenience during transport and storage. Tech-wise, we’re looking at the brand’s own 45mm large-aperture drivers complemented by rare-earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils for exceptional sound fidelity.
V-Moda Crossfade M-100
Created using military-approved materials, these headphones were designed and manufactured using crowdsourcing from over 200 audiophiles, which means that they’re able to go toe-to-toe with some of the most expensive offerings on the market. Highlights include the brand’s 50mm Dual Diaphragm Drivers as well as top-notch noise isolation technologies that are able to cancel out distracting sounds. DJs will find this product particularly appealing, as it comes with dual inputs.
Bowers & Wilkins P7 Wired
If comfort is high on your priority list when shopping for headphones, then you’ll definitely love the P7 Wired by Bowers & Wilkins. These over-ear closed-back headphones feature sheepskin leather ear pads that rest on a sturdy aluminum frame courtesy of magnets, while their folding design makes them easy to store in small drawers or cupboards. As far as audio fidelity is concerned, the P7 Wired model comes with sound isolation technologies, and it is fully compatible with Apple’s iPhone and iPod products.
Oppo PM-3
The PM-3 by Oppo incorporates something called planar magnetism, which is a lightweight, advanced speaker system based on a diaphragm, a magnet array and a circuit that dramatically improves responsiveness while minimizing distortion. The fact that this product is accompanied by a bonus cable designed to work with iPhones is also a big plus, not to mention the closed-back sound isolating design and impressive lightness of just 10 ounces.
Beyerdynamic T90
Flaunting a neodymium rare-earth magnetic coil system that guarantees exceptional sound reproduction, the T90 is undoubtedly one of the most amazing products on our list. It comes with an open back design, which means that its sound is not completely isolated, but if you plan on using these in your home, this shouldn’t be too much of an issue. Moreover, a velvet headband with ear pad accents provide superior comfort when compared to other similar offerings.
Shure SRH1840
What you’re looking at right now are Shure’s flagship headphones, and as with most flagship products, they don’t really disappoint in any way. They flaunt a frame made out of aerospace aluminum alloy as well as grills put together using stainless steel, and since they were designed with a dual frame in mind, they’re both lightweight and comfortable. When it comes to performance, we should mention the 40-millimeter neodymium rare-earth magnetic drivers, as well as the steel frames with a vented center pole on the drivers, which improve linearity while minimizing internal resonance.
Sony MDRZ7
Sony makes an entrance on our list with the MDRZ7 – a high-quality product that offers an open-back design as well as ergonomic aluminum padding that ensures legendary comfort. The oxygen-free copper cables are silver-coated, while the large 70mm ALCP film driver units offer the kind of sound quality that you’d expect to find in a recording studio. The comfortable 3D-sewn cushions and silicon rings also deserve a mention, as does the balanced audio cable and conventional connector cable.
Sennheiser HD 800
Designed with perfect sound fidelity in mind, the HD 800 by Sennheiser flaunts 56mm dynamic drivers as well as 40mm aluminum voice coils and 42mm magnet structures. These high-end parts come together to form a near-perfect product that’s able to deliver irreproachable sound quality, while the device’s structure based on a multi-layered polymer headband and ergonomic Leona ear cup frames makes sure that the wearer will always be comfortable even during lengthy listening sessions.
Audeze LCD-3
Last but not least, we’re going to tell you a bit about the Audeze LCD-3, which are arguably the best high-fidelity headphones on the market. They received numerous accolades from reputable publications such as Forbes, and all of that praise was fully justified. Thanks to planar magnetic technology, these high-end headphones flaunt diaphragms that are slimmer than human hair yet four times larger when compared to regular dynamic resonators. The company’s Fluxor Magnet Array tech complemented by Fazor elements guarantee balance and optimal power draw, while microsuede or lambskin leather elements promote amazing comfort.
