Best Headphones for Metal and Rock Music
Are you looking for the best headphones for metal music, but not having any luck finding what you need? In this buyer’s guide, we have narrowed the choice to 10 of the best options across 3 different price categories. This will make it easier to find what you need as you can go straight to the options within your price bracket.
Moreover, if you have never bought a pair of headphones made for metal music, then consider reading the buying factors to consider. There you will find out the different features you should be looking for and based on them you can make an informed decision of what to buy.
By the time you finish reading this buyer’s guide, we are confident that you will have the knowledge to buy the best headphones for metal and rock music. Even if you don’t find what you are looking for in our top 10 list you’ll be better equipped when looking elsewhere.
Budget |
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Sennheiser HD 201 |
4.9/5.0 |
Weight: 5.8 ounces |
Warranty: N/A |
Excellent bass that’s perfect for metal. |
Check Amazon |
Best Value |
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V-MODA Crossfade M-100 |
4.8/5.0 |
Weight: 9.9 ounces |
Warranty: N/A |
Excellent audio thanks to the 50mm drivers. |
Check Amazon |
Top Pick |
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Sennheiser HD 700 Headphone |
4.9/5.0 |
Weight: 14.4 ounces |
Warranty: 2 Years |
Extremely wide frequency response. |
Check Amazon |
Items by price:
Buying Factors to Consider
Audio
Earmuff design
Brand
Durability
Foldable design
Top 10 Best Headphones for Metal Comparison Table
Make and Model | Weight | Built-in microphone | Price Check |
---|---|---|---|
Sennheiser HD 201 Lightweight Over Ear Headphones | 5.8 ounces | No | Check Price |
AKG K240STUDIO Semi-Open Studio Headphones | 8.5 ounces | No | Check Price |
Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone | 8 ounces | No | Check Price |
Marshall Headphones M-ACCS-00152 Monitor Headphones | 12 ounces | Yes | Check Price |
beyerdynamic DT 880 PRO Studio Headphones | 10.1 ounces | No | Check Price |
V-MODA Crossfade M-100 Over Ear Noise Isolating Metal Headphone | 9.9 ounces | Yes | Check Price |
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones | 10.1 ounces | No | Check Price |
Sennheiser HD 700 Headphone | 14.4 ounces | No | Check Price |
Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone | 9.1 ounces | No | Check Price |
Shure SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Headphones | 41.6 ounces | No | Check Price |
Best Headphones for Metal Under $100
Are you a huge fan of Metal music, but don’t have big enough budget to invest in the best sound equipment? Then don’t worry as the under $100 category features some of the best budget options in the market.
The headphones here are not the best of the best but they do get the job done. However, if you want something that gives off better beats and quality then look at our higher categories.
1. Sennheiser HD 201 Lightweight Over Ear
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The Sennheiser HD 201 Lightweight Over Ear Headphones uses a closed back design, which means music won’t leak out for all to hear. Also, the closed back design helps with the noise isolation, because ambient sounds can’t get through that easily.
Moreover, the audio delivered by the Sennheiser HD 201 is amazing with rich crispy bass and excellent vocals thanks to the wide frequency response. Also, the sealed earcup design provides long-lasting comfort and doesn’t strain the ears.
In addition, the lightweight design makes them easy to travel with as you’ll hardly notice the headphones there. Also, the long cable cord and adapter included makes them compatible and easy to use for any situation. Plus, the rugged design is made so that the headphones can take a beating. therefore dropping them is not a big deal.
The style of the Sennheiser HD 201 doesn’t look that fashionable and is pretty basic, so if you’re looking for something to go with your outfit we suggest looking at the other options. Also, the cable cord can wear out easy if you’re not looking after it.
To conclude, the Sennheiser HD 201 Lightweight Over Ear Headphones is great for metal music as it features excellent bass and can handle vocals pretty well. Also, the over ear design isolates the noise not letting ambient noises bleed in.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 5.8 ounces |
Wireless: No |
Built-in Microphone: No |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Leatherette earpads |
Long cable cord |
Excellent bass |
The Cons |
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Doesn’t look stylish |
Not resistant to water or dust |
2. AKG K240STUDIO Semi-Open Studio Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The new XXL transducers inside the AKG K240STUDIO Semi-Open Studio Headphones ensure extremely accurate response at any listening level. This technology creates a diaphragm that’s thinner more elastic and therefore produces better bass, mids, and highs.
Moreover, to ensure a great listening session you must feel comfortable at all times, which is why AKG has included a self-adjusting headband with a flexible steel structure. Also, the earpads are extra padded bringing long-lasting comfort during the musical session.
In addition, you can detach the cable and put on your own, which lets you customize the headphones for any occasion. When traveling it’s better to have a shorter cable so that it won’t get in the way, but for home use, it’s ideal to have something longer as you’ll have more freedom to move around.
The semi open back design isn’t for everyone as this lets some ambient noises leak through allowing you to hear the background more clearly. This makes it safe to travel with, but if you need a pair of headphones to listen to metal music at home then consider a closed-back design.
In conclusion, the AKG K240STUDIO Semi-Open Studio Headphones is a great choice for travelers and studio producers as the cable cord is customizable and the comfort level is amazing. Also, the sound is excellent too, because it uses XXL transducers that bring awesome bass in addition to amazing vocals.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 8.5 ounces |
Wireless: No |
Built-in Microphone: No |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Comes with long cable cord |
Uses XXL transducers |
Semi-open design |
The Cons |
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Semi-open design isn’t for everyone |
Sometimes the audio can get muffled when listening on max volume |
3. Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
Using 40mm neodymium magnet drivers the Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphones produce amazing upbeat bass and pinpoint vocals. Also, the frequency range is 10 Hz – 20k Hz, which means the headphones can output lower frequency notes that equals to vibrant bass. Plus, with the help of the closed-ear design the headphones are noise isolating eliminating ambient sounds.
In addition, these headphones are great for traveling, because of the foldable compact design. This means they take up less space than ordinary headphones leaving room for other essential items. Also, you can buy this model with a headphone case, which will protect them from getting squashed by other objects.
Moreover, they are extremely comfortable to wear thanks to the highly padded earmuffs and headband. Also, the extremely long 9.8 foot cable cord makes them easy to use when watching TV, using a PC, or when connecting to a stereo.
The only minus we could find with these headphones is that the frequency response is pretty average when playing highs. Metal music is best when playing music with a headphone that has around 10 Hz – 40k Hz, but if you’re on a budget then these headphones will suffice.
To conclude, the Sony MDR7506 is a great option for people who need a long cable cord as these headphones come with a 9.8 foot wire. The earpads are comfortable to wear and provide a noise isolating experience, while not applying too much pressure on the ears.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 8 ounces |
Wireless: No |
Built-in Microphone: No |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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9.8 foot cable cord |
Easily portable |
Excellent bass |
The Cons |
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Cable can be too long for some people |
Easy to scratch |
4. Marshall Headphones M-ACCS-00152 Monitor Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.6/5
The Marshall Headphones uses a detachable cable cord system, which means you can customize the wire for any occasion. Also, the wire included comes with a built-in microphone so you can take calls without the need to touch your phone – plus there is a remote for MP3 players.
In addition, these headphones use 40mm handmade driver units that can produce music at an unbelievably high level. Featuring a wide frequency range the drivers can output more notes and therefore make the music sound lifelike.
Furthermore, the comfy earpads keep the musical experience enjoyable at all times and even provides some noise isolation. Also, the headband is thickly padded to not strain the top of your head and is easily adjustable.
The built-in microphone located on the cable is not great quality and trying to take calls in public can be a nightmare as the mic doesn’t block out background noise. Moreover, the MP3 remote can sometimes be unresponsive and requires reconnection to work.
To summarize, these headphones are great for people looking for something under $150. The 40mm handmade drivers produce amazing beats at high volumes, while still keeping the audio distortion free. Also, there is a built-in mic in the cable cord that is provided, thus you can take calls without having to hold your phone up.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 12 ounces |
Wireless: No |
Built-in Microphone: Yes |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Uses 40mm handmade drivers |
F.T.F custom filter system |
Has a remote MP3 button pad |
The Cons |
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Button pad can sometimes be unresponsive |
Microphone is not ideal to use in loud areas |
Best Headphones for Metal Under $250
The $250 list features some of the better options out in the market with open-back and closed-back designs that offer different levels of noise isolation. In addition, the audio quality is much better than the previous category with far wider frequency responses delivering outstanding highs and soothing lows.
5. Beyerdynamic DT 880 PRO Studio Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The Beyerdynamic DT 880 PRO Studio Headphones uses a semi-open back design, which means air can flow through the headphones avoiding sweaty ears. Another benefit for the open-back design is that you can hear your surroundings better making them safer to use in busy areas.
Moreover, the audio sounds pinpoint thanks to the 5 Hz – 35,000 Hz frequency response, which makes the music sound almost lifelike. Listening to metal music with these headphones poses no problem as they can handle the highs and bass of each tune.
In addition, the weight of the headphones is quite low so you’ll hardly feel them and the headband applies little pressure causing no strain. Unlike other headphones, it uses a single-sided cable so there is a smaller chance of them getting tangled up.
A big negative with these headphones is that they are not suitable for outdoor use, because of the long cable cord and semi-open back design. Also, they are not resistant to water so using them in the rain will damage them.
In summary, the Beyerdynamic DT 880 PRO Studio Headphones is a great option to use at home, because it features a wide frequency range and excellent comfort. The bass and highs sound excellent making them ideal for metal music, plus the semi-open back design allows your ears to breath so wearing them for long hours is not a problem.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 10.1 ounces |
Wireless: No |
Built-in Microphone: No |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Semi-open back design allows your ears to breath |
Ultra-wide frequency response delivers great beats |
Soft earpads |
The Cons |
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Not resistant to water or sweat |
Not suitable for outdoor use |
6. V-MODA Crossfade M-100 Over Ear Noise Isolating Metal Headphone
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
The V-MODA Crossfade M-100 Over Ear Noise Isolating Metal Headphone features 50mm dual-diaphragm drivers that use inner and outer rings to separate the bass from bleeding into the mids and highs. Also, using immersive 3D soundstage technology the audio sounds lifelike almost as if you’re in the concert yourself.
In addition, using supple BLISS memory foam cushions the headphones provide long-lasting comfort, which makes them an excellent choice for traveling with. Also, this design helps with the noise isolation separating unwanted noises from the beat.
Furthermore, the V-MODA Crossfade M-100 has military level durability featuring a steel frame and a tough exoskeleton. The cable can be bent over 1 million times and is easily replaceable making them suitable for any occasion since you can switch to a long or short cord when needed.
However, for such a good headphone it does come with a big price tag so if you’re on a budget we suggest looking at the other options. But if the V-MODA Crossfade M-100 is within your budget then this is a great option as the durability is excellent and the audio amazing.
To conclude, the V-MODA Crossfade M-100 Over Ear Noise Isolating Metal Headphone produces lifelike audio that makes you feel like you’re in a concert. The steel frame and tough cable cord make the headphones ultra-durable guaranteeing a long-lasting product. Also, the noise isolation is great reducing ambient noises to a minimum.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 9.9 ounces |
Wireless: No |
Built-in Microphone: Yes |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Military level durability |
Customizable cable cord |
Excellent audio thanks to the 50mm drivers |
The Cons |
---|
Not a budget option |
Not wireless |
7. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x critically acclaimed sonic performance has been praised by some of the top sound engineers and professional audio reviewers. Using 45mm large aperture drivers with rare earth magnets these headphones output heavy beats that go well with any metal song.
Experience exceptional clarity thought the extended frequency range with deep accurate bass, amazing mids, and pinpoint highs. In addition, the comfortable earpads can be turned 90 degrees for easy one-ear monitoring.
Moreover, the cable cord is easy to remove and to replace, so if you wear out the wire don’t worry about repairing them – simply order a new cable. Also, the frame and design of the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is ultra-durable and is made to last using premium metals and leather. Plus, you can pick from 5 color designs to match your style.
The negatives with the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x are that they are not resistant to the elements so using them outside is not ideal. Also, dropping them too much can cause major damage to the drivers – make sure to purchase an additional warranty.
To summarize, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is an excellent pickup for someone looking to listen to metal music with them, because the frequency response is very wide making the highs and lows sound amazing. In addition, the premium leather used is super comfortable to wear and doesn’t make you feel too much pressure when wearing.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 10.1 ounces |
Wireless: No |
Built-in Microphone: No |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
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Customizable cable cord |
Delivers great bass |
Comfortable to wear |
The Cons |
---|
Easy to break if not looked after |
Not resistant to the elements |
Best Headphones for Metal Under $500
If you are looking for quality then look no further as the $500 category contains some of the best options for metal music lovers. The frequency response and sensitivity in this price category are far better than anything mentioned before. Also, all the options feature removable cables or earpads, therefore giving you the option to customize your own headphones.
8. Sennheiser HD 700 Headphone
Editor’s Rating: 4.9/5
The connectivity technology with the Sennheiser HD 700 Headphone is wired, which means you won’t have to worry about battery life and staying within the connection range. Using a 3 meter symmetrical silver plated oxygen free copper cable the durability of this product is long lasting and extremely high quality.
In addition, the audio sounds amazing as it uses an extremely wide frequency range of 8 Hz – 44k Hz, which means it can play metal music at exceptional levels of clarity. Also, the drivers are specially tuned to deliver high-quality audio when listening at full volume and the music doesn’t sound distorted.
Moreover, the earmuffs are made from comfortable super soft leather and don’t apply too much pressure when wearing. Also, upon purchasing these headphones you get a 2 year warranty that covers manufactures faults.
Although these headphones are amazingly good for the metal genre it does come at a cost of just under $500. So if your budget doesn’t stretch that high then consider looking at our other options. Also, the open-back earpad design lets sound leak in and out, which means no noise isolation.
In conclusion, the Sennheiser HD 700 Headphone is an excellent premium option that is tuned to play music at a high level. The extremely wide frequency response is made so that you can hear more notes bringing a lifelike experience. Also, you get a 2 year warranty, thus you don’t have to worry about them breaking after a few months of use.
Tech Specs |
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Weight: 14.4 ounces |
Wireless: No |
Built-in Microphone: No |
Warranty: 2 Years |
The Pros |
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Extremely wide frequency response |
Durable design |
Comfortable to wear |
The Cons |
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Expensive when compared to other options |
No noise isolation |
9. Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone
Editor’s Rating: 4.8/5
Specially designed acoustic silk ensures precision damping over the entire frequency range and helps reduce the distortion level to just 0.05%. Using premium drivers and the ultra-wide 10 Hz- 39,500 Hz frequency response, the Sennheiser HD 650 delivers amazing vibrant beats that go well with any genre of music.
The open back design allows air to flow through allowing your ears to breath, therefore wearing these headphones for long periods of time is not an issue. Plus, the amazingly soft earmuffs are super comfortable to wear and even seal the ears in tight.
Moreover, the aluminum voice coils improve the sound quality, because it allows a very fast transient response. Also, the overall design of the headphones is very durable and feel premium when holding in hand.
The open back design that the Sennheiser HD 650 uses isn’t for everyone as it allows background noise to leak through, which means using them in public would be a nightmare. Also, the extremely wide frequency range isn’t necessary if you’re looking for something to play audio at an average level.
To conclude, the Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone is an excellent choice for people who want to listen to metal music at home. The open back design lets air flow through allowing your ears to breath. Also, the wide frequency response makes the music sound drastically better and almost lifelike.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 9.1 ounces |
Wireless: No |
Built-in Microphone: No |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
---|
Open back design allows your ears to breath |
Ultra-wide frequency response |
Comfortable headband |
The Cons |
---|
Not ideal to use in loud public areas |
No noise isolation |
10. Shure SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Headphones
Editor’s Rating: 4.7/5
The Shure SRH1540 is a premium closed-back headphone that features an expansive soundstage for clear extended highs and amazing bass – perfect for the metal genre. Developed with an aluminum alloy and carbon fiber construction the headphones are long-lasting and durable. Also, the design is extremely lightweight and you’ll hardly feel like they are there when wearing.
In addition, the earmuffs are ultra-soft and made to be worn for hours, so taking these headphones on long journeys is not such a bad idea. Also, they are easily removable so you can replace them with your own earpads if they are uncomfortable.
Furthermore, the sensitivity of the headphones is 99 dB and the frequency range is 5 Hz – 25k Hz, which means you can play music at full volume and still get a beautiful sounding tune. Also, the Kevlar reinforced copper cable transmits music efficiently to the headphones and is better than Bluetooth connections since there are no obstacles to get in the way.
The closed-back design can make these headphones dangerous to use in some circumstances in public – for example, when you’re at a train station or the bus stop. Also, dropping them can cause scratches and sometimes damage the drivers, so we recommend you buy an extended warranty.
To summarize, the Shure SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Headphones is one of the better sounding options on this list. Using advanced technology and a wide frequency response these headphones can produce amazing bass beats with pinpoint vocals, which is excellent for metal music. In addition, the earpads are made from Alcantara and can be replaced with your own earmuffs.
Tech Specs |
---|
Weight: 41.6 ounces |
Wireless: No |
Built-in Microphone: No |
Warranty: N/A |
The Pros |
---|
Closed-back design reduces ambient noises |
Frequency response is ultra-wide |
Earpads are made from Alcantara |
The Cons |
---|
Not safe to use in public as closed-back design makes it harder to hear your surroundings |
Not resistant to water |
Contents
- Items by price:
- Buying Factors to Consider
- Audio
- Earmuff design
- Brand
- Durability
- Foldable design
- Top 10 Best Headphones for Metal Comparison Table
- Best Headphones for Metal Under $100
- 1. Sennheiser HD 201 Lightweight Over Ear
- 2. AKG K240STUDIO Semi-Open Studio Headphones
- 3. Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
- 4. Marshall Headphones M-ACCS-00152 Monitor Headphones
- Best Headphones for Metal Under $250
- 5. Beyerdynamic DT 880 PRO Studio Headphones
- 6. V-MODA Crossfade M-100 Over Ear Noise Isolating Metal Headphone
- 7. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
- Best Headphones for Metal Under $500
- 8. Sennheiser HD 700 Headphone
- 9. Sennheiser HD 650 Open Back Professional Headphone
- 10. Shure SRH1540 Premium Closed-Back Headphones