Professional headphones: Next year’s best bets

Among the most important gear pieces a music producer or DJ must have is an excellent pair of headphones. Without these, it would be difficult to create, mix, and edit sound as one intends. The past years have seen newer and cheaper technologies dominate the market. Here are 2021’s best bets for professional headphones. 

Image source: medium.com

The Sony WH-1000XM3 carries the brand’s state-of-the-art noise-cancelling technology while being one of the world’s best wireless headphones, perfect for DJs and producers on the road. The Grado SR60e is a well-designed pair of headphones that does not compromise sound for comfort. Its open acoustic design delivers great sound for its price range. The SR60es are recommended for both professional DJ-producers and hobbyists, says DJ-producer James Haidak. 


The Bose QC 35 II is considered by many as the best all-around headphones in the market. With impeccable noise-cancellation, it comes with a 10-hour battery life. However, this lightweight and comfortable pair of headphones comes with a hefty price tag. With a closed acoustic design, the Beyerdynamic Amiron has a 1.2m detachable cable and a 30-hour battery life for wireless use. Its spacious, dynamic, and detailed sound makes it a top contender for its range. 

Image source: noteworthyaudio.com


James Haidak shares that the Focal Stellia is a luxurious headphone with incredible sound stage and punchy sound quality. The Focal Stellia’s accurate sound treatment places it as one of the best headphones on the market. As it’s on the more expensive side of the spectrum, saving up for a pair of these will be well worth it.

James Haidak is an up-and-coming DJ and music producer. While he has been a regular figure of the rave circuit in the Dutch capital of Amsterdam, he has also taken the decks in various club and festival venues all over the world, including Koh Phangan in Thailand, which he calls his home away from Amsterdam. Head over to this page for more updates from James Haidak.

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