Choosing the right headphones for electronic drums can be a challenge. Sound quality is highly subjective—what sounds amazing to one person might not impress another. That makes finding the perfect pair a personal journey, with no one-size-fits-all solution.
With a wide range of styles to choose from—open-back, closed-back, in-ear monitors, and more—drummers face an overwhelming number of options.
DT 770 Pro
DT 990 Pro
Audio HD 650
To help simplify the decision, we’ve put together a curated list of top-rated headphones. These picks are based on objective performance metrics and key features, making them solid choices for most drummers.
1. beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro
The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO remains a top choice for electronic drummers even after 20 years, thanks to its rugged design and superb sound quality. Built with a durable metal headband, hard plastic housing, and replaceable velour ear pads, these headphones are ideal for studio use, touring, and long practice sessions. They’re also comfortable, with a snug yet pleasant clamping force. The three-meter non-detachable cable offers freedom of movement but may be a drawback if damaged.
Sonically, the DT 770 PRO delivers excellent clarity, with a slightly bright high-end that enhances cymbals and hi-hats—something many drummers appreciate. It also provides strong noise isolation, particularly in the upper frequency range, making it ideal for focused practice or tracking. While not suited for casual on-the-go listening, these headphones are perfect for musicians needing reliable performance and build quality in a studio or band environment.
2. beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
If you’re after a wide soundstage with a subtle bass boost, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is a great choice. Its open-back design delivers a more natural, airy sound compared to the DT 770 Pro, but it also allows more external noise in—something to consider in louder environments.
The build is solid, featuring a metal headband and hard plastic housing, while the velour ear pads offer excellent comfort, especially for glasses wearers. They’re also more breathable than leatherette pads, making them ideal for long sessions. However, the open-back design makes them more vulnerable to moisture and dust, so extra care is needed.
With a higher impedance, these headphones may require an amplifier if your electronic drum module can’t deliver enough power. Luckily, even basic USB interfaces or budget amps typically suffice. A long-time favorite among producers and musicians, the DT 990 Pro offers fantastic value if you’re not ready to upgrade to the pricier DT PRO X series.
3. Sennheiser Audio HD 650
The Sennheiser HD 650, along with its HD 600 counterpart, is widely regarded as a true reference headphone thanks to its balanced sound and exceptional comfort. With one of the flattest frequency responses on this list, the HD 650 delivers highly accurate audio, making it ideal for critical listening and electronic drumming.
It features a detachable 3-meter cable that ends in a standard 1/4-inch TRS plug, with an included adapter for 3.5mm connections if needed. Like many high-impedance headphones, it may require an external amplifier if your drum module can’t provide sufficient volume, though most interfaces or basic amps will suffice.
As an open-back design, the HD 650 is best used in quiet environments. Unlike many similar models, it doesn’t noticeably amplify ambient noise, and its expansive soundstage helps you pinpoint instrument positions clearly in the mix. Add in a user-replaceable cable and superb comfort, and the HD 650 becomes a top-tier choice for serious musicians.
4. Sony MDR7506
If you’re looking for the best value in headphones for electronic drums, the Sony MDR-7506 is hard to beat. A staple in studios for over 30 years, these headphones offer excellent sound quality for mixing and music production at an affordable price.
While they lack some premium features, they cover the essentials well. The MDR-7506 sports a practical design with a plastic and vinyl build, padded headband, and foldable hinges for portability. The coiled cable is great for maneuvering around equipment, though it’s not detachable. However, Sony designed these headphones with repairability in mind—many parts are replaceable, making them more serviceable than most budget options.
With their accurate sound, durable build, and proven track record in professional settings, the MDR-7506 remains a go-to choice for musicians and producers. They may not deliver the most luxurious listening experience, but their reliability and performance make them a smart buy for any drummer on a budget.
5. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x remains a popular choice among musicians, producers, and podcasters thanks to its solid performance, minimal sound leakage, and portable design. These closed-back headphones provide effective noise attenuation—around 10dB at 700Hz, 33dB at 4kHz, and up to 38dB at ultra-high frequencies—making them great for focused listening and recording.
Designed for convenience, the ATH-M50x features foldable ear cups that rotate 90 degrees and an adjustable metal-notched headband. The vinyl ear pads and firm clamping force offer decent comfort for extended use, though users with glasses might feel some pressure over time.
The ATH-M50x doesn’t require amplification, making it easy to connect directly to your electronic drum kit. It uses a proprietary detachable cable system and includes three cables, which are replaceable but not as convenient as standard 3.5mm jacks. Despite newer models in the lineup, the ATH-M50x continues to be a reliable, versatile option for both casual and professional audio tasks.
What You Should Know About the Best Headphones for Electronic Drums
When it comes to playing electronic drums, the right pair of headphones can make a world of difference. Unlike acoustic drum kits, electronic drums don’t produce much natural sound, so your headphones are your primary source of audio feedback. Whether you’re practicing at home, recording, or performing live, choosing the right headphones can greatly enhance your playing experience. Here’s what you should know before making your pick.
Sound Isolation Matters
One of the most important features to look for is sound isolation. Electronic drums still generate pad noise and stick tapping, so you’ll want headphones that effectively block out external sounds. Closed-back headphones are often the best choice here, as they seal around your ears and reduce ambient noise, allowing you to focus solely on your playing and the module’s output.
Comfort for Long Sessions
Drumming sessions can be long and intense, so comfort is crucial. Look for headphones with padded ear cups, adjustable headbands, and breathable materials. Velour pads are often more breathable than leatherette and stay cooler over time. If you wear glasses, you’ll also want headphones that don’t press too hard against your frames.
Frequency Response and Sound Quality
Electronic drum modules reproduce a wide range of frequencies—from deep bass kicks to high-frequency cymbals—so a balanced frequency response is key. Headphones that exaggerate the low or high end may color your perception of the kit’s sound. Ideally, you want a pair with a flat or studio-accurate frequency response, especially if you also use them for mixing or recording.
Build Quality and Durability
Drummers move around a lot, and gear can take a beating. Choose headphones with sturdy construction, such as reinforced headbands, detachable cables, and replaceable ear pads. Touring musicians should also consider foldable or collapsible designs for easier transport.
Cable Length and Connectivity
You’ll need a cable long enough to allow freedom of movement behind your kit. A 3-meter (10-foot) cable is usually ideal. Also, check the connector type—most electronic drum modules use a 1/4-inch (6.35mm) jack, but some might require a 3.5mm adapter. Detachable cables offer flexibility and are easier to replace if damaged.
Impedance and Power Requirements
Some high-end studio headphones have high impedance (measured in ohms), which may require an amplifier to reach optimal volume levels. Most electronic drum modules can power headphones rated between 32 to 80 ohms without issue, but if you go higher, you might need a headphone amp or audio interface for proper performance.
Open-back vs Closed-back
Closed-back headphones are better for isolation and recording, but open-back models provide a wider soundstage and more natural audio—ideal for casual listening or mixing. If you play mostly in quiet environments and don’t need isolation, open-back headphones can be a solid alternative.
In summary, the best headphones for electronic drums combine comfort, clarity, durability, and isolation. Choose based on your playing environment and specific needs to get the most out of your drumming sessions.
