Contents

Impedance

https://www.freetousesounds.com/best-headphones-for-field-recording/ Selecting the right headphones for field recording can be quite challenging due to the wide range of choices available. If you're an avid traveler, an everyday carry (EDC) enthusiast, or a weekend explorer, finding the perfect pair that offers portability, accuracy, and excellent editing capabilities is crucial. In this guide, I'll share six of the best headphones that I have personally tried and tested, alongside insights on the importance of impedance in your choice.

Reference

Only above 60 ohms.

The headphones listed below are frequently recommended for field recording, with an emphasis on low to medium impedance for compatibility with portable recorders.

Headphone Model Impedance Retail Price (Note)
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x 38 ohms Popular and often found under $200.
Sony MDR-7506 63 ohms Typically around $100.
Audio Technica ATH-30x 48 ohms Budget-friendly; usually less than the ATH-M50x.
Sennheiser HD 280 PRO 64 ohms An affordable, entry-level option.
KZ ZS 10 PRO X 25 ohms Very affordable in-ear monitors.
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 ohm version) 80 ohms Priced similarly to the ATH-M50x.

💡 What to Know Before You Buy

When choosing headphones for field recording, impedance is just one part of the equation. Here are other critical factors to ensure you get the right tool for the job:

  • Prioritize Passive Noise Isolation: For field recording, passive noise isolation is often considered the most important feature. Good isolation physically blocks ambient noise, allowing you to hear exactly what your microphones are capturing and make precise adjustments on the spot. Avoid active noise cancellation (ANC), as the internal speakers and microphones can potentially interfere with your recording equipment.

  • Match Impedance to Your Recorder: Impedance determines how much power your headphones need.

    • Low-impedance (under 50 ohms) headphones are ideal for most portable field recorders, as they require less power to drive and will produce a fuller sound.
    • Medium-impedance (around 60-80 ohms) models can also work well, especially with more powerful professional recorders.
  • Choose Closed-Back Designs: For monitoring during recording, closed-back headphones are the standard. Their sealed design prevents sound from leaking out (which could be picked up by your microphones) and helps isolate you from your environment.