The 10 Best Headphones for Classical Music in 2022 Reviewed

It’s not really possible to listen to classical music and pick out every element without a setting that makes this possible. Surround sound speakers do take up a bit of space, and the cost can be a little too high for some folks.

That’s why selecting the best headphones for classical music is an important decision for those that love this genre. Instead of spending hundreds to even thousands of dollars to obtain the kind of system you want, it’s smart to at least consider a great set of headphones that could heighten your classical experience.

Much like any other headset, you’ll want to be selective about this since your enjoyment will depend on how picky you are when it comes to your music.

The thing about classical music is that it does require a trained ear to truly enjoy it and pick out the various hints and nuances that are set within each piece. A great set of headphones will help you do this since some of the best sets can offer the kind of clarity that makes each instrument stand out with crystal clarity.

Seriously, listening to Beethoven, Mozart, and many others becomes a truly emotional experience when you find the right headphones.

Photo
Best Overall
SENNHEISER HD 660 S - HiRes Audiophile Open Back Headphone
Best Closed Back
AKG Pro Audio K371BT Bluetooth Over-Ear, Closed-Back, Foldable Studio Headphones
Premium Pick
Focal Utopia Reference High-Fidelity Circumaural Headphones
Best Wireless
Audio-Technica ATH-SR50BT Bluetooth Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, Black (ATH-SR50BTBK)
Best Budget
Philips Audio SHP9500 HiFi Precision Stereo Over-Ear Headphones (Black)
Product
SENNHEISER HD 660 S
AKG Pro Audio K371BT
Focal Utopia High-Fidelity
Audio-Technica ATH-SR50BT
Philips Audio Philips SHP9500
Pros

Comfortable.

Open and spacious soundstage.

Solid build quality.

Detachable cable.

Good noise isolation.

Wide frequency range.

Comfortable to wear.

Bluetooth wireless.

Incredible sound quality.

Comfortable to wear.

High-quality materials.

Great fit.

Good build quality.

Above-average wireless range.

Well-rounded performance.

Comfortable fit.

Well-balanced sound.

Good detail and clarity.

Comfortable to wear.

Detachable cable.

Rating
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Amazon Prime
-
-
Amazon Prime
Best Overall
Photo
SENNHEISER HD 660 S - HiRes Audiophile Open Back Headphone
Product
SENNHEISER HD 660 S
Pros

Comfortable.

Open and spacious soundstage.

Solid build quality.

Detachable cable.

Rating
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Best Closed Back
Photo
AKG Pro Audio K371BT Bluetooth Over-Ear, Closed-Back, Foldable Studio Headphones
Product
AKG Pro Audio K371BT
Pros

Good noise isolation.

Wide frequency range.

Comfortable to wear.

Bluetooth wireless.

Rating
Prime Status
Amazon Prime
Premium Pick
Photo
Focal Utopia Reference High-Fidelity Circumaural Headphones
Product
Focal Utopia High-Fidelity
Pros

Incredible sound quality.

Comfortable to wear.

High-quality materials.

Great fit.

Rating
Prime Status
-
Best Wireless
Photo
Audio-Technica ATH-SR50BT Bluetooth Wireless Over-Ear Headphones, Black (ATH-SR50BTBK)
Product
Audio-Technica ATH-SR50BT
Pros

Good build quality.

Above-average wireless range.

Well-rounded performance.

Comfortable fit.

Rating
Prime Status
-
Best Budget
Photo
Philips Audio SHP9500 HiFi Precision Stereo Over-Ear Headphones (Black)
Product
Philips Audio Philips SHP9500
Pros

Well-balanced sound.

Good detail and clarity.

Comfortable to wear.

Detachable cable.

Rating
Prime Status
Amazon Prime

 

 

10 Best Headphones for Classical Music

In this roundup, I’ll show you the 10 best headphones for classical music that I think offer the best sound quality, comfort, and value.

 

1. Best Overall: SENNHEISER HD 660 S.

SENNHEISER HD 660 S

The Sennheiser HD 660 S are the best headphones for classical music that I’ve reviewed so far. They’re comfortable, have an open and spacious soundstage that makes them great for listening to orchestra-based music, and their well-balanced audio reproduction is suitable for a wide range of genres.

These headphones have a solid build quality with a detachable cable that’s reinforced at both ends. They also come with a hard carrying case, which is great if you want to take them on the go.

However, their open-back design means that they won’t be as isolating as some of the other models on this list, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for headphones to use in noisy environments.

Overall, the Sennheiser HD 660 S are the best headphones for classical music that I’ve reviewed so far. If you’re looking for a pair of headphones to enjoy your collection of symphonies and sonatas, then these are the ones I recommend.

Pros
  • Comfortable.
  • Open and spacious soundstage.
  • Well-balanced audio reproduction.
  • Solid build quality.
  • Detachable cable.
Cons
  • More expensive than some other options.
  • Not as portable as some other headphones.
  • May not be the best choice for bass-heavy music.

 


 

 

2. Best Closed Back: AKG Pro Audio K371BT.

AKG Pro Audio K371BT

There are a lot of different types of headphones on the market, but not all of them are good for classical music. If you’re looking for the best headphones for classical music, you’ll want to make sure they have a few key features.

First, they should have good noise isolation so you can focus on the music and not be distracted by outside noise. Second, they should have a wide frequency range so you can hear all the details in the music. And third, they should be comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

The AKG Pro Audio K371BT headphones check all of those boxes and more. They have a great sound quality and are very comfortable to wear, even for long periods of time. Plus, they’re relatively affordable compared to other high-end headphones.

If you’re looking for the best headphones for classical music, the AKG Pro Audio K371BT should definitely be at the top of your list.

Pros
  • Good noise isolation.
  • Wide frequency range.
  • Comfortable to wear.
  • Good sound quality.
  • Bluetooth wireless.
Cons
  • Not everyone likes the over-ear design.
  • They’re not cheap.
  • Battery life could be better.

 


 

 

3. Premium Pick: Focal Utopia High-Fidelity.

Focal Utopia High-Fidelity

Focal’s Utopia headphones are one of the best options for classical music lovers. They offer incredible sound quality, comfort, and durability.

The Utopia headphones are made with high-quality materials and offer a great fit. They are also very comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

The sound quality of the Utopia headphones is simply amazing. They have a very wide frequency range and produce crystal clear highs and lows.

Recommended: The 10 Best Closed-Back Audiophile Headphones for Gaming in 2022.

The only downside of the Utopia headphones is their price tag. But if you’re looking for the best possible sound quality, they are definitely worth the investment.

Pros
  • Incredible sound quality.
  • Comfortable to wear.
  • Durable.
  • Great fit.
  • High-quality materials.
Cons
  • They are quite expensive.
  • They are not noise-cancelling headphones.
  • They may be too big for some people’s head size.

 


 

 

4. Best Wireless: Audio-Technica ATH-SR50BT.

Audio-Technica ATH-SR50BT

Audio-Technica’s ATH-SR50BT are the best wireless headphones for classical music that I’ve reviewed so far. They’re very well-rounded, and their overall performance is great.

These headphones have a good build quality and a comfortable fit, thanks to their ear cups that rotate and adjust to your head shape. They also have an above-average wireless range, and they won’t need to be recharged as often as some other models.

Their sound quality is very good, but they don’t have any EQ presets or options to customize their sound. However, their default sound profile is still well-balanced, and it should be suitable for most people.

Unfortunately, they don’t have a dedicated app, so you can’t fine-tune their sound or use any of the extra features that some other models offer. Additionally, their battery life could be better, and they’re a bit more expensive than some other wireless headphones.

Pros
  • Good build quality and comfortable fit.
  • Above-average wireless range.
  • Won’t need to be recharged as often.
  • Well-rounded performance.
  • Good for classical music.
Cons
  • The ear cups can get a bit hot on summer days.
  • Don’t work so well with loud sounds

 


 

 

5. Best Budget: Philips Audio Philips SHP9500.

Philips Audio Philips SHP9500

The Philips Audio Philips SHP9500 have a well-balanced sound and provide good detail and clarity. The headphones are comfortable to wear and have a detachable cable.

The headphones have a frequency response of 12-35,000 Hz and a sensitivity of 102 dB. They are made from plastic and metal and weigh 9.4 ounces.

The Philips Audio Philips SHP9500 comes with a 3.5mm to 6.3mm adapter and a carrying case. They have a one-year warranty.

Pros
  • Well-balanced sound.
  • Good detail and clarity.
  • Comfortable to wear.
  • Detachable cable.
Cons
  • Might be too heavy for some people.
  • Not travel friendly.

 


 

 

6. Best Noise Cancelling: Beyerdynamic T1.

Beyerdynamic T1

Beyerdynamic is a company with a long history of producing excellent audio products, and the T1 is no exception. These open-back headphones are designed for critical listening, and they do not disappoint.

The Beyerdynamic T1 has a frequency response of 5 Hz to 50 kHz, which is more than enough for most classical music. The sound quality is very clear and accurate, with a good amount of detail.

Recommended: The 10 Best Studio Headphones for Gaming in 2022.

The headphones are also very comfortable to wear, even for long periods of time. They have a soft, padded headband and earcups that make them gentle on the ears.

Overall, the Beyerdynamic T1 is an excellent choice for classical music lovers who want high-quality sound without any distractions.

Pros
  • Excellent sound quality.
  • Good amount of detail.
  • Designed for critical listening.
  • Wide frequency response range.
Cons
  • Price is a bit high for some people.
  • Not designed for general use.

 


 

 

7. Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250 ohm.

Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 250 ohm

Classical music lovers rejoice! The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO headphones are absolutely fantastic for listening to your favorite symphonies and concertos.

These over-ear, open-back headphones provide an incredibly clear and well-balanced sound that is perfect for classical music. The highs are crisp and detailed, the mids are rich and warm, and the lows are deep and powerful.

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO headphones are also very comfortable to wear, thanks to their soft ear pads and adjustable headband. They are also quite durable, which is always a plus.

If you’re looking for the best headphones for classical music, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO headphones should definitely be at the top of your list.

Pros
  • Excellent classical music sound.
  • Crisp, detailed highs and lows.
  • Can be used with any audio device.
  • Durable and comfortable thanks to the over-ear design
Cons
  • May be too expensive for some people.
  • May not be appropriate for rock and pop music.

 


 

 

8. Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X.

Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X

The ATH-AD700X from Audio-Technica is one of the most popular pairs of headphones for classical music. These open-back headphones offer excellent sound quality and a comfortable fit.

The ATH-AD700X has a light and airy sound that is well-suited for classical music. The highs are clear and detailed, and the mids and lows are well balanced. The soundstage is wide and spacious, making these headphones great for orchestral music.

The headphones are very comfortable to wear, even for long periods of time. They have a self-adjusting headband that ensures a perfect fit, and the ear cups are padded with soft, breathable fabric.

These headphones are also very affordable, making them a great option for budget-conscious classical music lovers.

Pros
  • Light and airy sound.
  • Wide and spacious soundstage.
  • Well-balanced sound.
  • Comfortable fit.
Cons
  • May not be ideal for heavier genres of music.
  • May not be well-suited for louder environments.

 


 

 

9. AKG Pro Audio K702.

AKG Pro Audio K702

AKG Pro Audio K702 over-ear, open-back headphones are designed for professional studio applications. They have a frequency response of 10Hz to 39.8kHz and feature AKG’s Varimotion two-layer diaphragm technology.

The K702 come with a single mini XLR connector and a 3.5mm adapter for use with different types of audio equipment. They also come with a carrying case and two detachable cables: one straight, one coiled.

These headphones have been reviewed by many different publications and websites. CNET gave them an 8 out of 10, saying that they “deliver accurate, balanced sound with plenty of detail”. PCMag gave them a 4 out of 5, saying that they are “comfortable, well-built, and sound great.”

HeadphonesAddict gave the K702’s a 9 out of 10, saying that they are “the best sounding headphones [they] have ever heard.”

If you are looking for a pair of high-quality headphones for classical music, the AKG Pro Audio K702 are an excellent choice.

Pros
  • Excellent build quality.
  • Good sound quality.
  • Well-designed ear cups.
  • Good value for money.
  • Multiple connectivity options.
Cons
  • Carrying case is not very durable.
  • Carrying case is not very durable.

 


 

 

10. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x.

Audio-Technica ATH-M40x

The Audio-Technica ATH-M40x are one of the most popular headphones for classical music. They have a very clear and detailed sound that is perfect for listening to classical music.

The ATH-M40x have a wide frequency response and a very comfortable fit. They are also very affordable, which makes them a great option for classical music lovers on a budget.

If you are looking for a pair of headphones that will allow you to enjoy classical music to the fullest, the Audio-Technica ATH-M40x are a great option.

Pros
  • Very affordable.
  • Clear and detailed sound.
  • Wide frequency response.
  • Very comfortable.
Cons
  • Sound quality is not as good as other more expensive headphones.
  • The headband can be uncomfortable if it is not adjusted properly.

 


 

 

Things to Consider when Buying Headphones for Classical Music

Classical music is a genre that people of all ages can enjoy. However, when it comes to choosing the right headphones to listen to classical music, there are a few things you need to take into account.

In this part of the article, I’ll guide you through the process of picking the best headphones for classical music so that you can enjoy your favorite tunes without any interruptions!

 

1. Sound Quality.

There are a few things to consider when it comes to sound quality and choosing the best headphones for classical music. First, you’ll want to make sure that the headphones have a good frequency response.

This means that they can reproduce the full range of frequencies that are present in classical music – from the deep bass notes to the highest highs. Second, you’ll want to consider the level of detail and clarity that the headphones can provide.

Classical music is often very complex, with many different layers of sound happening at once. You’ll want headphones that can reproduce all of those layers clearly, without any muddiness or distortion.

Finally, you’ll want to think about how well the headphones can handle dynamics. Classical music can be very dynamic, with sudden changes in volume and intensity. Headphones that can reproduce those changes accurately will give you the best listening experience.

 

2. Open-Back vs. Closed-Back.

There are two main types of headphones: open-back and closed-back. Both have their own benefits and drawbacks, so it’s important to know which one is right for you before making a purchase.

Open-back headphones offer a more natural sound, as they allow air to flow freely through the back of the ear cups. This gives them a wider soundstage and better imaging, making them ideal for classical music listening. However, open-back headphones can leak sound and be less comfortable to wear for long periods of time.

Closed-back headphones provide better noise isolation, as the ear cups are sealed off from the outside world. This makes them great for use in noisy environments, but can lead to a more constricted sound. If you’re looking for headphones to use while commuting or traveling, closed-back models are a good choice.

 

3. Comfort.

There are a few things to consider when it comes to comfort and headphones. First, you’ll want to make sure that the headphones fit snugly and securely over your ears.

Second, you’ll want to look for headphones that are light and comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. And finally, you’ll want to find headphones that don’t generate too much heat or cause discomfort after extended use.

 

4. Impedance and Sensitivity.

Classical music is often recorded and performed at a lower volume than other genres, so it’s important to choose headphones with a high impedance. This will ensure that the sound is clear and accurate, without any distortion.

Sensitivity is also an important consideration when choosing headphones for classical music. Look for headphones with a sensitivity of at least 100 dB/mW – this will ensure that you can hear all the subtle details in the music.

Recommended: The 5 Best Soundstage Headphones in 2022 Ranked.

 

5. Drivers.

When it comes to choosing headphones for classical music, one of the most important factors to consider is the drivers. The drivers are the part of the headphones that actually produce the sound, so it’s important to make sure they’re high quality.

There are two main types of drivers: dynamic and planar magnetic.

Dynamic drivers are the most common type of driver, and they tend to be more affordable. However, they’re not always the best choice for classical music. That’s because they can’t reproduce the delicate nuances of classical music as well as planar magnetic drivers can.

Planar magnetic drivers are more expensive, but they’re worth the investment if you want the best possible sound quality.

 

 

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a lot of great headphones out there that are perfect for classical music lovers. I’ve reviewed the 10 best options on the market and given you our thoughts on each one. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which pair is the best for your needs.

I hope that this guide has helped you understand a little more about how to pick the best headphones for classical music. There are so many factors to consider, but if you take the time to do your research, you’ll be sure to find a pair of headphones that suit your needs perfectly.

From there, it’s just a matter of enjoying all the incredible music that classical has to offer. Thanks for reading!

 

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Is a musician and journalist with over 13 years of experience writing for some of the music world's biggest brands. Ray loves getting nerdy about everything from guitar gear and synths, to microphones and music production hardware.

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