The Best Audiophile Headphones You Can Also Use For Gaming
It’s no secret that audiophiles and gamers oftentimes don’t see eye to eye. The former group tends to be more interested in accurate sound reproduction while the latter is mostly concerned with graphics, gameplay and even obstructing bass. However, there is a growing number of people who are interested in both gaming and audio. If you’re one of those people, then you’re in luck! There are a number of great audiophile headphones on the market that are also great for gaming. In this article, we’ll be taking a look at some of the best options available.
What to Look for in Gaming Headphones
When shopping for headphones that are good for both gaming and audiophile listening, you want to make sure you look for certain features.
First and foremost, good gaming headphones need to be comfortable. While audiophiles may generally be looking for the most accurate sound, gamers need to be able to wear their headphones for hours without discomfort or fatigue. A wide soundstage is also important for gamers, as it allows you to more easily hear your opponent's movements. But this is also common for audiophiles when looking for headphones
Because games don’t always require accurate sound reproduction, it’s generally not necessary to look for headphones with a “flat” frequency response. Rather, look for headphones that provide good clarity and detail in the mid and high-range frequencies.
Finally, you’ll want to look for headphones that have a microphone that can pick up your voice clearly. Unless you already have a stand-alone mic, or you just never talk at all, you’ll want to be able to communicate with your teammates without distortion.
What to Look for in Music-Based Headphones
If you’re primarily looking for audiophile headphones that you can also use for gaming, you’ll want to look for headphones that have good frequency response and a wide soundstage.
Ideally, the headphones should have a flat frequency response that allows for the most accurate sound reproduction possible. This ensures that you get the most out of all genres of music, from classical to jazz to rock. While looking for accurate sound you’ll also want to look for headphones that have a wide soundstage. This will allow you to easily distinguish elements in the music from one another. When listening to electronic, hip-hop, or classical music, having a wide soundstage allows you to pick out instruments and sounds you may not have heard before.
Finally, if noise blocking is important to you, look for headphones with active noise cancellation. This feature will help you to block out external noises from reaching your ears, allowing you to focus on your music.
The Best of Both Worlds
The best of both worlds is combining the needs of both the audiophile and gamer. With the right set of headphones, you can have ultimate sound performance while still enjoying a good gaming session. Here are some of the best audiophile headphones you can use for gaming:
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS XLR StreamSet
If you're looking for a professional-grade streaming headset, the ATH-M50xSTS StreamSet is a great option. Equipped with the same large-aperture drivers as the critically acclaimed ATH-M50x headphones, the StreamSet also features two sets of interchangeable earpads and a cardioid condenser microphone. The microphone is designed to be close to your mouth, rejecting background noise and delivering clear audio. The StreamSet is available in two configurations: with a 3.5mm headphone input and XLR microphone output, or with a USB connection.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50xSTS XLR StreamSet
Designed for streamers and content creators, the ATH-M50xSTS StreamSet™ is the world’s first professional streaming headset that combines the legendary studio sound of the ATH-M50x headphones with the clarity of the iconic 20 Series microphones. Equipped with a cardioid condenser microphone, and two distinct earpad styles that you can use according to your preference, this headset delivers the ultimate studio-quality sound for you and your streaming audience.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless is a premium gaming headset that offers unbeatable sound quality and customization options. The Pro-grade Parametric EQ lets you fine-tune the sound experience to your liking, while the Active Noise Cancellation feature ensures you're immersed in your virtual world. The Multi-System Connect feature lets you connect to multiple devices and switch between them with the press of a button. And with help from the Dual Audio Streams feature lets you mix two audio connections at the same time, making it ideal for gaming and chatting with friends.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless
Experience ultimate clarity and sound quality with Premium High Fidelity Drivers. Fully customize the sound experience with the Sonar Software by using a first-in-gaming Pro-grade Parametric EQ..Note : If the size of the earbud tips does not match the size of your ear canals or the headset is not worn properly in your ears, you may not obtain the correct sound qualities or call performance. Change the earbud tips to ones that fit more snugly in your ear
Audio-Technica ATH-R70x
If you're looking for a top-of-the-line pair of open-back headphones, the Audio-Technica ATH-R70x should be at the top of your list. These reference-level cans boast specially designed drivers and acoustically transparent housings made from aluminum honeycomb mesh, delivering accurate and natural sound. They're also comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to a new and improved 3D wing support system, and come with a convenient, dual-sided detachable cable.
Audio-Technica ATH-R70x
High-efficiency magnets and pure alloy magnetic circuit design reduce distortion and ensure accurate and extended high-frequency response
Sennheiser HD 600
The Sennheiser HD 600 is one of the most popular reference headphones on the market, and for good reason. These headphones are known for their analytical sound quality, which is perfect for reference listening. The HD 600 has a clean, clear sound that is free from distortion and turbulence. The padding on the headphones is soft and comfortable, making it ideal for extended listening sessions. The earcup grille pattern has been specifically designed to improve the sound quality of the headphones. The HD 600 is also assembled in Ireland with the utmost attention to detail. This ensures that every pair of HD 600 headphones is of the same high quality, no matter where in the world they were purchased.
Sennheiser HD 600
The HD 600 is the audio purist’s choice for reference playback. An instrument of Sennheiser’s passion for perfect sound, it is globally recognized as the standard for analytical high-fidelity listening - even 20-plus years after its release.
AKG Pro Audio K712 PRO
If you're looking for headphones that will completely change the way you listen to music, then the AKG K712 PROs are for you. These open-back headphones offer a rich sonic performance with a wide, spacious soundstage that will make all your favorite tracks sound even better. The carefully-selected transducers and flat-wire voice coils provide outstanding impulse and treble responses, while the improved low-end performance gives you powerful sound imaging. And since they're designed for complete comfort, you can wear them for hours without having to worry about any discomfort. Whether you're a musician, mixing or mastering engineer, or just a lover of high-fidelity sound, the AKG K712 PRO Headphones are the perfect companion.
AKG Pro Audio K712 PRO
Hear things that you've never heard before. The AKG K712 PRO Open-Back Headphones are a dream come true for studio-dwellers and audiophiles alike. Their rich sonic performance, wide spacious soundstage, and luxurious wearing comfort ensure a truly-special listening experience.
Beyerdynamic DT 880 Premium Edition
The beyerdynamic DT 880 Premium Edition are a great pair of headphones for anyone looking for a neutral and relaxed sound. The bass reproduction is very deep, but not overstated, which is perfect for lovers of jazz and classical music. The semi-open design allows for some ambient noise to penetrate and escape, but not as much as a fully open headphone. The DT 880 Premium Edition is also very light for its size and has a comfortable, breathable, and skin-friendly design. The combination of the comfortable headband and ear pads, as well as the aluminum yokes, make the DT 880 Premium Edition perfect for long listening sessions.
Beyerdynamic DT 880 Premium Edition
The DT 880 Edition is the classic among the premium headphones from Beyerdynamic. Music lovers delight in its natural, vibrant sound as well as its excellent spacious reproduction. The DT 880 Edition attenuates ambient noise, but does not exclude it completely, and thus conveys a harmonious sound experience. These headphones have been part of the Beyerdynamic portfolio for 20 years and still enjoy exceptional popularity. All components are available as replacement parts, making the DT 880 Edition a reliable companion for many years to come.
That's It!
There are many audiophile headphones that are suitable for gaming. Depending on your budget, preferences, and needs, you can select from a wide variety of options. These headphones offer a great sound performance and also provide enough soundstage to make your gaming experience more enjoyable. It is important to remember that sound is subjective, so you should listen to different headphones to find the best one for you. Finally, remember to keep your audiophile headphones in good shape by cleaning them regularly and not exposing them to extreme temperatures and moisture. With good care, your audiophile headphones can last you for years.
