When practicing on a digital piano at home, having a good set of headphones is essential. Looking into a pair of the best headphones for piano practice will allow you to practice without disturbing others and hear your instrument more clearly.
The piano is also an instrument that uses the full frequency range, and professional headphones provide that full range and response Here are some of the best headphones for piano when practicing and recording at home or in the studio.
The Best Headphones for Practicing the Piano (Top 10)
Contents
- The Best Headphones for Practicing the Piano (Top 10)
- 1. Sennheiser HD 660S: Best Headphones for Piano
- 2. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 32 Ohm Studio Headphones: Best Headphones for Piano
- 3. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: Best Headphones for Piano
- 4. SENNHEISER HD 599 Open Back Headphones: Best Headphones for Piano
- 5. Sony WH-1000XM4: Best Headphones for Piano
- 6. AKG K240 MK 2 Studio: Best Headphones for Piano
- 7. Audio SHP9500: Best Headphones for Pianos
- 8. Yamaha HPH-150B Compact Closed-Back Headphones: Best Headphones for Pianos
- 9. Koss KPH40 Utility On-Ear Headphones: Best Headphones for Piano
- 10. Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones: Best Headphones for Pianos
- Conclusion
1. Sennheiser HD 660S: Best Headphones for Piano
(Most Premium Option & Best Headphones for Piano & Studio Recording)
The Sennheiser HD 660S headphones are a high-end pair of headphones ideal for practicing on a digital piano and professional studio mixing.
They certainly tick the most premium box as they have a frequency response of 10 to 41,000 Hz and 150-ohm impedance. This is reflected in the price, however, as they retail at $350.
These headphones are open-back, which means that they allow for a more natural soundstage and better sound quality. They are also incredibly comfortable, with plush padding and an adjustable headband.
| Product Specifications | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Sennheiser HD 660S |
| Type | Over-ear, open headphones |
| Impedance | 300 Ohms |
| Design | Sleek design with a black matte finish. Microfiber-like padding on the oval cups. |
| Connector options | Comes with various connector options, including a removable cable with a two-pin connector. |
| Sound Quality | V-shaped balance, excellent for studio-worthy vocals, guitars, and drums, and accurate sound for professional audio or video editing. Improved bass and treble extension. |
| Additional Features | The open-back design provides breathability. |
2. Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 32 Ohm Studio Headphones: Best Headphones for Piano
(Great value and specs)
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is another excellent option for practicing on a digital piano. These headphones have a closed design and come in various models with different levels of impedance.
You can purchase 32 ohms (for smart devices), 80 ohms (best all-rounders for the studio), and 250 ohms headphones (studio only and may require a headphone amp otherwise).
The 770 Pros are also lightweight and comfortable, with soft padding and an adjustable headband. All models have a frequency response of 5-35000 Hz, making them excellent value at $159.
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Model | Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 32 ohm |
| Type | Closed-back Headphones |
| Frequency Response | 5Hz – 35kHz |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Sensitivity | 96 dB |
| Sound Profile | Balanced, detailed, and articulate |
| Extra Features | Replaceable ear pads and headband padding |
| Construction | Metal parts with exposed cable connection |
| Cable and Plug | 5.2′ cable, 1/8″ TRS plug, 1/4″ adapter |
| Transmission Type | Wired |
| Use Cases | Studio monitoring, musicians, audiophiles |
| Noise Cancellation | No |
| Country of Origin | Germany |
3. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: Best Headphones for Piano
(Great value Headphones for Piano Practice)
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a popular choice for musicians and music producers, and they are also an excellent option for practicing on a digital piano.
These headphones have a closed-back design, which means that they provide excellent noise isolation.
They also have a durable and foldable design, which makes them easy to transport. The ATH-M50x has a frequency response range between 15 and 28000 Hz. They offer excellent value for pro headphones ($149 at the time of writing).
4. SENNHEISER HD 599 Open Back Headphones: Best Headphones for Piano
Open Back Piano and Studio Headphones
The Sennheiser HD 599 headphones are highly recommended for piano practice They are known for their superior sound quality and comfort. These headphones feature an open-back design, which tends to deliver a more natural, spacious sound profile.
They are appreciated for their suitability for piano use due to their premium quality, comfortable fit, high-fidelity sound, and good bass.
The headphones come with plush velour padding, contributing to the comfort they provide during long hours of use.
An additional advantage is the inclusion of a 1/4″ plug, which makes connecting them to a digital piano effortless, without needing an adapter.
However, one downside of open-back designs to keep in mind is that they have more sound leakage. If your primary concern is not disturbing others, then this is something to bear in mind.
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Design | Open-back, over-ear design |
| Sound Quality | A refined and natural sound quality and an emphasis on the midrange. They offer a wide soundstage and accurate imaging. |
| Frequency Response | Two detachable cables and an adapter are included in the package |
| Comfort | Exceptional comfort with large ear cups, soft replaceable ear pads, and an adjustable headband made of premium leather |
| Build | Lightweight with plastic construction, a combination of black and ivory, with metallic detailing |
| Extras | Sennheiser emphasizes its commitment to product longevity |
| Usage Suitability | Suitable for home use and gaming, but not suitable for travel due to the open-back design that allows outside noise and sound leakage |
5. Sony WH-1000XM4: Best Headphones for Piano
(Versatility – Noise canceling and Bluetooth)
If you want a pair of headphones that you can use for both practicing on a digital piano and listening to music, the Sony WH-1000XM4 is an excellent choice.
I own these headphones and have used them for music mixing, piano practice, and entertainment. As long as you use them with a wired connection when practicing or making music, (to mitigate latency), they are an excellent choice.
These headphones have an over-ear design and active noise cancellation, which means that they can block out external noise and provide an immersive listening experience.
They are also wireless and have a 30-hour long battery life making them ideal for use at home or when traveling around and listening to music or podcasts.
They also can also be connected with a cable, making them an excellent choice for practicing on your instrument as well.
6. AKG K240 MK 2 Studio: Best Headphones for Piano
(Best Budget Headphones for Piano)
The AKG K240 Mark 2 Studios are a budget-friendly option for practicing on a digital piano. These headphones have a semi-open design. They provide a good balance between natural sound and noise isolation with solid bass and airy highs.
These headphones have an OHM impedance of 55 and a frequency response between 15- 25000 Hz, making them excellent value for professional-grade headphones.
Whilst the Audio-Technica M50s or Beyerdynamic DT 770 would offer you better quality overall for mixing music, the AKGs are a cheaper alternative that is almost as good.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Design | Semi-open, circumaural design |
| Technology | Varimotion technology and XXL transducers for precise, lifelike sound |
| Impedance | 55-ohm |
| Sensitivity | 104 dB |
| Frequency Response | 15 Hz – 25,000 Hz |
| Cable | Detachable 3m cable with mini XLR connector and 3.5mm plug; 1/4″ adapter included |
| Comfort | Self-adjusting headband, comfortable circumaural pads, fatigue-free listening |
| Use | Ideal for precision listening, mixing, mastering, and stage use |
| Warranty | 2-year Total Confidence Coverage Warranty |
7. Audio SHP9500: Best Headphones for Pianos
(Sturdy Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones for Piano and Studio)
Philips SHP9500 headphones are also suitable for piano practice, offering a balance of sound quality and comfort.
They are affordable open-back headphones that offer a wide soundstage and clear, detailed sound, which can enhance the piano-playing experience.
Moreover, these headphones are noted for their comfort. However, similar to the Sennheiser HD 599, they may leak sound and provide less noise isolation due to their open-back design.
These headphones would be a great choice for those seeking a more budget-friendly option without compromising on sound quality or comfort.
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Type | Over-Ear Open-Back Headphones |
| Driver Size | 50mm neodymium drivers |
| Frequency Response | 12 Hz to 35 kHz |
| Impedance | 32 Ohms |
| Sensitivity | 101 dB |
| Cable Length | 9.84 feet (Detachable) |
| Cable Connector | Gold-plated 3.5mm plug |
| Weight | 0.7 lbs (0.32 kg) |
| Design Features | Sturdy steel headband with double-layered cushion, breathable earpads, angled drivers |
| Product Dimensions | 20cm x 17cm x 10cm |
8. Yamaha HPH-150B Compact Closed-Back Headphones: Best Headphones for Pianos
(Great Value Compact & Adjustable Yamaha Piano Headphones)
The Yamaha HPH-150B is another fantastic option for digital piano players. It is a budget-friendly headphone that provides high sound quality and noise reduction.
Notably, it features an adjustable headband and swivel feature, enhancing comfort and making it suitable for extended periods of practice.
These headphones also boast a gold-plated stereo plug and a 2-meter cable for easy, convenient connection.
9. Koss KPH40 Utility On-Ear Headphones: Best Headphones for Piano
These headphones by Koss represent a budget-friendly option that for under $50 (at the time of writing, offers decent sound quality for entertainment and practicing on your instrument.
- Open-Back, On-Ear Design, Retro Look
- Ultra Lightweight, Stainless Steel Chassis
- Audiophile Sound Performance
- Soft, Foam Ear Cushions
- 3.5mm Utility Cord Included
10. Sony ZX Series Wired On-Ear Headphones: Best Headphones for Pianos
Looking for something even more affordable? These headphones from Sony will allow you to practice your piano pieces without disturbing others, and without breaking the bank!
MORE: If you are looking for the best Digital, Stage, and Workstation Pianos to use with your new headphones, check out the following articles:
The NEW Nord Stage 4 is Here! (Review)
Nord Piano 5 review – An Upgraded Classic (2023)
The Korg Nautilus Full Review – The Best Workstation?
Why the Korg Kronos is Still the Best Workstation
Conclusion
Choosing the right headphones for practicing on a digital piano at home can make a significant difference in your playing experience.
Whether you opt for high-end or budget-friendly options, make sure to choose headphones that are comfortable, provide excellent sound quality, and meet your specific needs.
