I have heard Audio-Technica ATH-W1000Z, which is the audiophile and reproduces the exact audio as the original one. But if I am not wrong, this function is associated with only studio headphones like Sony MDR-7506 that deliver pure audio so that you can listen to what is recording. How come two categories of headphones work in the same manner? In this regard, I am conveying my thoughts on Studio vs Audiophile Headphones.
In the music industry, the terms studio and audiophile headphones are generally used interchangeably. But I like to mention that there are some differences among them owing to their separate characteristics. Both perform different tasks and fulfill different purposes that make them different from each other in a practical sense.
Which Is Better, Audiophile Or Studio Headphones?
If you study in-depth, you will notice they are different not only in their design but also in their performance. This section is about finding the accurate and prominent factors that make them detachable.
Basic Purpose
Studio headphones are used in studios for recording and editing soundtracks. They are known to produce sound from scratch so that it can be later processed for further enhancement and coloration.
The primary function of these headphones is to listen to and monitor the tracks to find flaws and audio leaks in them. Beyerdynamic DT990 headphones are best for critical listening and generating the same sound as the original.
Audiophiles transmit every detail and reproduce accurate audio from the source to the reception. These are more fun as they offer you to listen to final audio tracks with all the embellishments and effects by hiding all the lacking sound elements.
Note: audiophile headphones do not give the same sound but rather reproduce it with some alteration.
Sound Quality
In my opinion, both the headphones, whether audiophiles or studio ones, do not compromise the sound quality. At the same time, there are notable differences among them.
Studio headphones produce a sound that you might hear ugly, hollow, and uncomfortable. Obviously yes! You are producing it and hearing the vocals without adding any coloring ingredient to it. Moreover, these headphones are efficient in preventing audio information from being lost, providing every little detail about it.
Audiophiles include all the effects in the soundtrack and enhance sound quality. Thus you listen to more pleasant and soothing sounds.
Tidbits: studio headphones are sound producers, and audiophiles are sound enhancers.
Design
Studio headphones are over-ear headphones with tightly packed earpieces for noise isolation. Moreover, you will see they are closed back not to let the audio leak and process noise-free pure sound.
Audiophile headphones are open back to let sound bleed out. As a result, sound becomes more breathable and more open. Such headphones give a better listening experience than studio ones.
Frequency Response
Studio headphones almost aim to provide a flat frequency response, which means all the frequencies are at the same level without any boosts and peaks on the scale.
Audiophile headphones add an exaggerated element to the audio and do not give an accurate idea of the sound as the source does. Because they excite various audio aspects, you will listen to prominent bass and trebles.
Note: audiophiles may be used for critical listening and to appreciate music, but studio ones are only restricted to producing it accurately.
Professional vs Casual Use
Studio headphones are required to generate a faithful sound without any distortion. These are highly used in studios for audio producing, critical listening, and mixing for the intended consumers.
Audiophiles are used in homes for listening to every detail of sound. For example, you can listen to drum beats and finger swapping during guitar playing only through these Hi-Fi headphones.
Portability
Studio headphones are highly portable and offer foldable ear cups and lightweight designs. It is because you have to wear them in one second, and in the next second, you need to pull them off. Heavy headphones cannot make the best use in the studios.
Audiophiles are used in casual settings. You use them for listening to music in your free time, and they are slightly heavier than studio ones but come in premium designs.
Price Difference
Studio headphones come at different prices but are still affordable and cheap compared to audiophiles. They last you a very long time. It starts with a price range of $300. Only professionals think to buy this for developing pure and clear soundtracks. Moreover, you will notice that they do not bother about aesthetic design and specific style. Instead, they offer durability and comfort to use for long hours.
Audiophile headphones are highly-priced. They are a complete entertainment package with excellent sound quality and an impressive design with super comfortable ear pads. They have price ranges starting from $500 or above.
Also read: Can You Use Audiophile Headphones For Gaming? Basic Guide
My Final Verdict
Both headphones have their function to perform. You cannot choose audiophiles to fulfill the purpose of studio headphones that produce the raw track. Similarly, an audiophile is not suitable for generating unaltered audio.
But for critical listening and inspecting the quality or innate problems, you can use audiophile headphones. As all audiophiles may be studios, but the studio ones cannot be audiophiles.
You have to think wisely before selecting a particular headphone owing to its different functions. The choice is yours to choose whether you need a headphone with good sound quality or want a headphone that produces original sound for you.
Can Studio Headphones Be Used For Listening To Music?
You can use any headphones for listening to music, whether it be the studio, monitoring, or any other. However, they are technically designed to perform specific specified tasks but do not deviate from the primary purpose for which they are manufactured.
What are headphones for? Of course, they are used to listening to music or watching shows. Moreover, they provide the privilege of enjoying your time without interrupting others.
Are Audiophile Headphones Good For Music?
If you love music like me and do not want to miss any details, you should consider using audiophile headphones. Audio-Technica ATH-W1000Z headphones are my favorite headphones that have the privilege of offering crisp audio.
In addition, the quality of the music you get from these headphones is unmatchable as they are famous for not altering the audio. It means the sound you hear in the headphones is nearly the same as the source generating it.
How Long Do Studio Headphones Last?
Studio headphones, after proper care, can last for 3-4 years. However, they are considered the most durable gadgets that are highly involved in audio tracks’ unaltered, colorless production.
Audiophile headphones are already expensive, which means, manufactured with suitable quality components. The average lifespan of these headphones is from 3-10 years.
Final Thoughts | Studio vs Audiophile Headphones
Do you hear the term poles apart? Well, it rightly fits in this section as studio and audiophile headphones are at the two extremes in the scale. In this article, I like to mention that both headphones have different functions and cannot be used interchangeably. I hope this piece of writing will be helpful to you in making the right choice before choosing the right headphone compatible with its purpose.