The 9 Best Podcast Headphones [2025 Guide]

Key takeaways

• Why use headphones for podcasting: Headphones are essential for real-time monitoring, catching audio issues, and ensuring balanced sound in multi-guest or remote recordings.
• Features to consider when choosing headphones: Prioritize comfort, durability, portability, a wide frequency response, and a closed-back design to block external noise.
• Wired over wireless for podcasting: Wired headphones are preferred for their reliability, zero latency, and consistent connection during recordings.
• Flat sound for accurate editing: Choose headphones with a neutral, uncolored sound. This lets you hear exactly what’s being captured, so you can edit with confidence.

When you start recording a podcast, the real challenge is knowing what your audience will actually hear. Podcast headphones give you that perspective in the moment, so you can adjust your audio before it gets locked into the track.

Overall, they help you deliver a cleaner, more balanced recording - and edit it more accurately. 

In this guide, you’ll find the best podcast headphones for 2025, along with tips on what to look for, so you can choose your first pair with confidence.

Why do podcasters wear headphones?

If we’re being honest, everyone on your podcast should be wearing headphones. Here’s why:

Real-time audio monitoring

Headphones let podcasters hear themselves and their guests precisely as their audience does. This real-time monitoring allows them to adjust their volume, pace, and clarity on the fly. 

That’s why podcasters seem to speak so crisply and clearly. They get direct feedback, preventing common issues like speaking too quickly and mumbling. 

It’s not just about the host’s voice. Headphones also let the host monitor guest audio, background music, and sound effects, ensuring everything is balanced and audio levels are consistent. 

Catching problems before they ruin the recording

Headphones let the host spot unwanted sounds like:

• Background noise: Like air conditioning, traffic, refrigerator hums, etc
• Technical issues: Like audio bleed, popping, or crackling from a faulty connection. 
• Noise from guest mics: Hosts can quickly spot disturbances from guest mics. 

Precise editing

The benefits of headphones extend beyond the recording process. During editing, podcasters can detect audio imperfections, distortions, and imbalances. They can also tweak audio levels, tone, and quality to make the recording polished and professional. 

For multi-guest setups

In a multi-guest setup, headphones allow participants to hear themselves and others clearly. They can regulate their speaking volume and avoid talking over each other, allowing them to speak in turn and capture audio clearly.

For remote interviews

For interviews conducted remotely, headphones are crucial. Without it, the microphone will pick up the guest’s audio from the speakers.

Another reason headphones are used is to monitor the guest’s audio remotely and address technical issues quickly. 

(Riverside is a great platform for remote recording. It lets you control the guest’s video and audio from your end so the podcast recording goes without technical issues.) You also need to watch out for the following: 

9 Best Headphones for Podcasting in 2025

From budget-friendly options to high-end gear, here are my picks for the best podcast headphones.

Disclaimer: Please see our help site guidelines to check the compatibility of any equipment with Riverside.

1. Sony MDR-7506 — My top overall pick

• Price: $109.99
• Type: Closed-back, Over-ear (Circumaural)
• Comfort: Good, thanks to a lightweight frame with decent padding.
• Frequency Response: 10 Hz - 20,000 Hz
• Sensitivity: 106 dB
• Impedance: 63 Ohms

The Sony MDR-7506 aren’t flashy, but they’re consistent, and that’s exactly what you want when you’re monitoring audio. The sound is flat and honest. If there’s a hiss, a hum, or a pop in your recording, these headphones will reveal it. I like how the mids and highs cut through just enough to make spoken word clear, which makes them perfect for catching small issues before they sneak into a final edit.

Build-wise, they're solid but not indestructible: the ear cushions will flake or flatten over time (they’re easily replaceable), and the long coiled cable can be a bit heavy. Still, given their reliability and value, the MDR-7506 is often my go-to recommendation for podcasters on a budget.

Pros:

• Extremely clear, detailed sound for voice recording.
• Foldable, lightweight, and portable.
• Minimal bleed into the mic for clean recording.
• Easy to replace worn parts like ear pads.

Cons:

• Pads wear out fairly quickly.
• Coiled cable is heavy and non-detachable.
• Comfort is fine, but not the best for marathon podcasting.

2. ​​Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro — My top higher-end pick

• Price: $199.99 (depending on impedance version)
• Type: Closed-back, Over-ear (Circumaural)
• Comfort: Excellent, with plush velour ear pads and a padded headband.
• Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 35,000 Hz
• Sensitivity: 96 dB to 98 dB
• Impedance: 32 Ohms, 80 Ohms, or 250 Ohms

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is the pair of headphones I reach for when I know I’ll be editing all day. The sound is beautifully balanced: voices come through smooth and natural, highs are crisp without being harsh, and the bass is present but controlled. That balance makes long sessions less fatiguing. Background chatter is well isolated thanks to the closed-back design, with only slight leakage at very high volumes.

Comfort is excellent, especially with the plush velour pads on the 80 ohms and 250 ohms versions, which stay breathable during hours of use. The only consideration is the power these headphones need to sound their best. If you’re plugging straight into a laptop or mobile, stick with the 32 ohms or 80 ohms versions. The 250 ohms model sounds the same in terms of quality, but it really needs an amp or strong interface output to reach proper levels. 

Pros:

• Natural, smooth vocal reproduction with great detail.
• Comfortable enough for all-day wear.
• Strong isolation, suitable for noisy environments.
• Rugged build with easily replaceable parts.

Cons:

• Some leakage at high volumes.
• 250 ohms version needs an amp.
• Bulkier than travel-friendly options.

3. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x — Best portable studio headphones

Price: $149

Type: Closed-back, Over-ear (Circumaural)

Comfort: Good, with well-padded earcups and headbands; some users initially find them tight.

Frequency Response: 15 Hz – 28,000 Hz

Sensitivity: 99 dB

Impedance: 38 Ohms

The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is probably the most popular “all-rounder” I’ve seen among podcasters and producers. As the flagship of Audio Technica’s M-series, it delivers a sound that has a wide frequency response for rich, detailed sound. The audio reproduction tends to be accurate and neutral too. Plus, they’re light and comfy, so you can wear them for long sessions.

But what sets the M50x apart for me is the practicality. Audio-Technica includes three detachable cables (straight and coiled), which makes them versatile for different setups. The earcups swivel and collapse inward, so I can throw them in a bag without worrying about damage. Isolation is solid: in my experience, they block out a fair amount of external noise and prevent bleed into the mic at normal recording levels.

Pros:

• Neutral, detailed sound that’s perfect for editing/mixing.
• Comes with three detachable cables for versatility.
• Great for travel or multi-scenario use.
• Strong isolation with minimal mic bleed.

Cons:

• Slightly heavier and bulkier than simpler studio models.
• Ear cushions may warm up with extended use.

4. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro – Best noise isolation

Price: $99

Type: Closed-back, Over-ear (Circumaural)

Comfort: Good, with padded ear cups and headband.

Frequency Response: 8 Hz - 25,000 Hz

Sensitivity: 113 dB

Impedance: 64 Ohms

The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro is especially good if you’re recording in less-than-quiet spaces. The isolation is its biggest strength: the tight seal cuts external noise by up to 32 dB, which is excellent considering the price point. I’ve recorded with these in rooms that weren’t perfectly treated, and the mic picked up very little background.

Sound-wise, they lean neutral and flat, which I appreciate for quick editing. Comfort is good enough for long sessions, with soft cushions and a padded headband. The clamp is snug, but that contributes to the isolation. They fold for easy packing, and while the thick coiled cable is heavy and non-detachable, it’s replaceable, adding to their long-term value.

Pros:

• Excellent noise isolation (up to 32 dB).
• Neutral, accurate sound for editing and mixing.
• Durable build; collapsible for travel.
• Comfortable padding for long use.

Cons:

• Strong clamping force may feel tight.
• Coiled cable is heavy and not detachable.
• Isolation might feel too “closed in” for some users.

5. RØDE NTH-100 — Best for comfort

Price: $159

Type: Closed-back, Over-ear (Circumaural)
Comfort: Excellent, thanks toAlcantara earcups with CoolTech gel, ergonomic design.
Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 35,000 Hz
Sensitivity: 110 dB
Impedance: 32 Ohms

The RØDE NTH-100 is one of the most comfortable headphones I’ve worn. The cooling gel earcups and padded headband make them easy to wear for hours, while the lightweight build feels sturdy without being bulky. Style-wise, the matte-black finish looks great on camera or stream.

The sound is neutral with a touch of warmth - voices sound full, highs are smooth, and detail is accurate without being harsh. Isolation is solid for closed-backs, and while they’re not hyper-analytical, they reveal enough detail for reliable editing and monitoring.

Pros:

• Extremely comfortable for long recording/editing sessions.
• Neutral, natural sound with a slight warmth for vocals.
• Lightweight but durable build, stylish matte finish.
• Solid isolation for most recording scenarios.

Cons:

• Not the most detailed for surgical mixing.
• Pads may get warm in hot environments.

6. AKG K371 — Best detailed, neutral sound

Price: $199

Type: Closed-back, Over-ear (Circumaural)

Comfort: Good. They’re lightweight with spacious oval earcups, though fit can be loose for some.

Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 40,000 Hz

Sensitivity: 114 dB

Impedance: 32 Ohms

AKG K371 reproduces audio with a very natural, balanced response in extraordinary detail. I’ve found them to be almost clinical in their accuracy - deep but tight bass, clear mids, and crisp highs. They don’t “flatter” the audio at all, which is great for picking up subtle mouth clicks or background hum. Audiophiles may find this flatness boring, but for editing, accuracy is exactly what you want.

Comfort is generally solid thanks to the lightweight, roomy design, though the fit can feel loose if you have a smaller head. The headphones fold for portability and come with three detachable cables (two straight, one coiled).

Pros:

• Exceptionally accurate, neutral sound signature.
• Great for spotting subtle audio flaws in editing.
• Lightweight, foldable, and portable.

Cons:

• Fit can feel loose on smaller heads.
• Neutral “flatness” may sound boring for casual listening.
• Slightly more expensive than other closed-backs in its class.

7. Audio-Technica ATH-M20x — Best budget pick

Price: $59

Type: Closed-back, Over-ear (Circumaural)

Comfort: Moderate. They're decent for short sessions.

Frequency response: 15 - 20,000 Hz

Sensitivity: 96 dB

Impedance: 47 Ohms

Audio-Technica’s ATH-M20x delivers clear, balanced sound at a budget-friendly price. It's a no-frills monitor headphone that makes it easy to catch vocal imperfections without over-coloring your mix. The closed-back, over-ear design gives decent indoor isolation, though they won’t block loud commutes or busy studios. Build quality is plastic, but it holds up well for the cost. Pads wear out with regular use, and after a couple of hours, you’ll likely feel clamp pressure and heat.

Pros:

• Affordable and solid build.
• Better-than-average low-end tuning.
• Excellent isolation for recording.

Cons:

• Non-folding design (except swivel).
• Not as plush as higher-end models.

8. Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro – Best for critical monitoring

• Price: $369.99
• Type: Closed-back, Over-ear (Circumaural)
• Comfort: Excellent, with both velour and leatherette pads and a padded headband.
• Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 40,000 Hz
• Sensitivity: 102 dB
• Impedance: 250 Ohms

The Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro is the point where headphones stop feeling like tools and start feeling like instruments. When I put them on, I hear everything: breaths, room tone, even the texture of speech. That level of detail makes editing surgical and mixing incredibly precise. The sound profile is well-balanced, with a well-controlled bass and precise vocal reproduction, making them fantastic for podcast monitoring.

Build quality is what you’d expect at this tier: aluminum and steel throughout, fully replaceable pads and cables, and a design that will outlast most gear in your studio. They are heavier than midrange options, but the clamp is gentle and the choice of velour or leatherette pads lets you pick between comfort or maximum insulation.

Pros:

• Exceptional clarity and detail for critical editing.
• Balanced, natural sound with controlled bass.
• Premium build with replaceable parts.
• Two pad options for comfort vs. isolation.

Cons:

• Bulky and not travel-friendly.
• Expensive compared to other closed-backs.
• The original 250 ohms version needs an amp.

9. Shure SRH1540 – Best high-end premium podcast headphones

• Price: Not mentioned on the website, but it's above $500
• Type: Closed-back, Over-ear (Circumaural)
• Comfort: Excellent, with a lightweight aluminum/carbon build and Alcantara pads.
• Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 25,000 Hz
• Sensitivity: 99 dB
• Impedance: 46 Ohms

Shure's SRH1540 headphones are built like a tank. Crafted from lightweight aluminum and carbon fiber, they feel incredibly durable. But it's not just about ruggedness; the 40mm neodymium drivers deliver a crystal-clear, neutral sound that’s perfect for critical listening. I was blown away by how accurately these headphones reproduced audio - every detail was pristine and free from any unwanted coloration.

I also found the sound isolation to be one of the best among other headphones. I could focus exclusively on podcast recording audio without being disturbed by external sounds. The headphones also felt remarkably comfortable on my ear, thanks to the breathable Alcantara ear pads. 

The headphones are easily portable, with a detachable cable and a hard-shell carrying case.

Pros:

• Crystal-clear, neutral sound with a touch of warmth.
• Outstanding comfort; breathable Alcantara pads.
• Excellent isolation for focused editing.
• Premium build with additional ear pads, cable, and case included.

Cons:

• Price is steep for many podcasters.
• Bulkier than budget-friendly models.

Pro Tip: Use headphones alongside Riverside’s local, uncompressed WAV recording for each participant. Even if your guest’s internet drops, you'll hear it in real-time, and you’ll still get their crisp local audio on the backend. Check out my recommended recording setup.

Factors to consider when choosing podcast headphones

When picking headphones for podcasting, your goal is accuracy. You want to hear your voice and your guest’s audio exactly as it is, without any artificial boosts or processing. That way, you can make real-time fixes while recording and trust your ears during editing.

A few factors matter more for podcasters than casual listeners:

• Comfort: You’ll be wearing them for long sessions, so padded earcups and lightweight design are essential.
• Durability and portability: If you’re recording on the go, foldable or compact designs make travel easier.
• Frequency response: A wider range generally means more accurate sound reproduction. Aim for a minimum of 20 Hz to 20 kHz; 15 Hz to 25 kHz is considered optimal for podcasting.
• Impedance: It represents the resistance your headphones present to an audio source. For use with laptops or portable gear, pick headphones with lower impedance (≈32 Ω) . If you’ve got access to an audio interface or amplifier, pick higher impedance (80–250 Ω) ones for more accurate monitoring.
• Wired vs. wireless: Wired is best for zero latency. Wireless is convenient but less reliable for recording.
• Battery life: Crucial for wireless headphones, which need to be recharged
• Open-back vs. closed-back: Closed-back headphones isolate sound better and stop audio from leaking into your mic.
• Over-ear vs. on-ear: Over-ear is generally more comfortable and better for isolation.
• Sound quality: Choose a flat, neutral response. Avoid noise-cancelling headphones, as they can distort audio.

💡 Top Tip: Choose headphones with a flat or neutral sound profile. That pairs well with Riverside’s noise reduction filters and Magic Audio enhancements, letting you focus on real mic issues, not ambient distractions.

FAQs about headphones for podcasting

What headphones does Joe Rogan use?

Joe Rogan uses the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro. They’re known for accurate sound, strong noise isolation, and durability, which makes them suitable for long-form podcast sessions like The Joe Rogan Experience.

What headphones do most podcasters use?

Among podcasters, a few models show up again and again:

• Sony MDR-7506: Detailed, flat sound and a reliable build.
• Audio-Technica ATH-M50x: Clear audio, detachable cables, foldable design.
• Sennheiser HD 280 Pro: Comfortable, durable, and great isolation.

These models come up frequently on Reddit, Pro Audio forums, and gear review sites, often praised as “the go-to choices” for podcasters from beginners to pros.

Can you use wireless headphones for podcasts?

You can, but they’re not recommended for recording or editing. Wireless headphones can add lag, dropouts, and compression, which makes it harder to catch problems in real-time. They’re fine for casual listening or transcribing, but for production, wired headphones are the better choice.

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