8 BEST HEADPHONES FOR CLASSICAL MUSIC

Are you struggling to find the perfect headphones to satiate your cravings for Classics? 

Admirers of classical melodies struggle to find headphones compatible with this golden genre. If you are going through this, I feel you. Now worry less and scroll down. Through trial and test, I have curated a list of the best headphones for classical music. This detailed review guide will answer all your queries and clarify every doubt before making an informed decision.
Read on, the perfect headphone awaits you.  Whether you are a music lover, a vlogger, or a professional music artist, I have got you covered! 

Best Headphones for Classical Music

Here’s a quick list of top recommended Headphones for Classical Music

Image	Product	Detail	Price
	Beyerdynamic Dt 1990	Editors Pick Top Sound Clarity Durable	Price
	Sony WH-1000XM5	Best Overall Sound Quality Premium Feel	Price
	Sony MDR7506	Budget Friendly Ergonomic Design Lightweight	Price

Now, without further delay, let’s find out what makes a headphone worthy of your companionship on your classical music journey.

Starting with an all-rounder, Beyerdynamic Dt 1990 is known for its jam-packed specifications. I’ll be honest to say that I have spent more time with these than with my siblings.

Features: 

Dt 1990 offers exceptional sound clarity with deep bass to high treble sound. It features a frequency response range of 5 Hz – 40 KHz, which in my opinion is a great range because the listener enjoys a wide range of musical instruments, from Cello to Violin, clear and detailed.

Being an appreciator of Orchestras, I had an immersive listening experience with a 45mm Audio Driver, provided to enjoy every layer of harmony played. 

Further, Dt 1990 is a top-tier choice for music producers and music engineers.  Professionals admire it due to its high Sensitivity (0.2 dB) and impedance (250 Ohm) when paired with a dedicated amplifier in a studio setting. 

Moreover, the Tesla neodymium driver ensures a quality sound adding value to the efficiency of this device.

Build Quality: 

Another aid for extended listening time is its circumaural earpiece shape. The ear pads are soft and comfortable and deliver a perfectly detailed audio playback. Extended usage results in worn-out material, but that can be easily replaced. 

The open-back design guarantees an immersive effect with spatial sound technology. The open back makes it the best choice for the music pieces recorded in hall concerts. 

Connectivity: 

Now let’s shed light on its connectivity aspect. Dt 1990 is a single side-wired headphone with a mini-XLR connector. The 3.5mm wired jack lowers the latency to ensure a real-time music experience.  

The detachable cable adds to its longevity if damaged it can be replaced easily. It also comes with an Android device control feature that makes it a viable option for Android users.

Gamers and other professionals such as video editors and Vlogers find this headphone set a game changer as this device makes them mindful of each sound produced during a gaming session and a vlog captured.

Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has sent thrills down the spine with a wide and clear soundstage. I have enjoyed compositions from Mozart to Vivaldi, on these headphones as if performed right in front of me.

Features: 

First, the sound quality is top-notch. The neutral sound signature enhances the subtle tones of classics. DT 990 Pro offers a wide soundstage with clear and crisp audio details capturing the true essence of instrumental symphonies accurately. 

Secondly, the superior frequency range (5 Hz – 35 KHz), Dynamic drivers, and high impedance ensure a precise, well-balanced, and immersive sound experience perfect for replicating the realism of live music concerts.

Further, DT 990 Pro preserves the melodiousness of classics with spatial depths, non-fatiguing mids, and bright highs of music. Pairing the DT 990 Pro with an amplifier maximizes the immersive experience of orchestral music listening.

Connectivity:

Wired connectivity brings out high-fidelity sound reproduction with fewer distortions. The 3m long straight cables bring out the convenience of free movement across the room. 

Moreover, a 3.5 mm Jack is the standard jack size, which makes these headphones compatible with a wide range of devices. Retractable cable adds to the longevity of the product as it lowers the chances of damage due to tangling.

Also, the DT 990 Pro does not require batteries or charging but hassle-free usage.  

Build: 

The build quality on these is really solid. Padded headband and velour ear pads are convenient and let the user emerge in the sophistication of melodies for hours without any trouble. 

Additionally, the DT 990 Pro is heavily admired for its comfortability. For me, the sound never felt stuffy due to its open-back ear cups and soft headband resting comfortably on the head.

The build material is lightweight, making it easier to wear these headphones for lengthy time durations and immerse oneself in the captivating realm of sounds and symphonies.

Bowers & Wilkins Px8, the hallmark of excellent audio specifications, captures the heart of audiophiles. 

Features:

First of all, listening to solo operas and orchestra compositions was incredible on Bowers & Wilkins Px8. I have listened to the audio with great clarity. The highs weren’t irritating, the bass didn’t feel stuffy, and I’d say the sound was on the warm side. 

Frequency response (20Hz – 20KHz) does a remarkable job of accurately reproducing the classical symphony at its finest. 

Another aspect worth mentioning that I noticed was the sound separation. The angled carbon cone drivers optimize the music clarity to the max with near-zero distortions. 

Other perks of B&W Px8  include advanced acoustic technology to adjust EQ according to personal preferences for classical music. 

Classical music like orchestras with complex instrumental compositions has multiple layers of tones. Bowers & Wilkins Px8 with its wide range of acoustic features classified it as a viable option in a precise list of headphones for classical music. 

Furthermore, active noise cancellation (ANC) is where things get exciting. Listening to operas is a phenomenal experience with no unnecessary environmental distraction. Other than that B&W Px8 has both Integrated touch and voice controls maximizing its usability. 

Battery Life:

B&W Px8 has a well-deserved reputation for long battery hours. With a 2-hour charge, the battery lasts up to 30  hours. It was a relatively attractive feature for me as I habitually forget to charge my device. Further, it seals the deal with a fast charge option, a 15-minute charge gives a 7-hour usage window.

Connectivity:

The cutting-edge Bluetooth technology gives me the freedom to move freely while enjoying my music simply switching between fun and work. 

Plus, adjustable microphones make work calls hassle-free, clear, and well-articulated with distortion-free speech signals.

Build and Design: 

Lastly, B&W Px8 has a luxurious design, with no compromising on comfort. With plush Nappa leather, lightweight aluminum arms, and improved breathable ear cushion, the headphone rests on the head with barely noticeable presence. 

Sony WH-1000XM5 fascinated me with its supreme noise-canceling feature. It has been an attraction for not only music enthusiasts but also remote workers, video editors, and avid travelers. 

Features: 

The WH-1000XM5 offers an unmatched acoustic profile. These headphones are LDAC-supported, bringing about the most advanced sound quality. The sound is analytical, detailed, and clear. Trust me it goes well with romantic symphonies of Chopin’s Nocturne during the long winter nights. 

Active noise cancellation is a big positive for this headphone, canceling out a range of unwanted background noise.  With this on, I was completely focused on the refreshing nocturne without any background interference. 

Adaptive Sound Control changes the music profile based on the environment, while transparency and speak-to-talk options let you interact with those who matter.   

WH-1000XM5 is compatible with a wide range of devices, 48-ohm impedance does not require a dedicated amplifier.

Another convenient feature of WH-1000XM5 is that intuitive touch controls on ear-cups work super great, one swipe or tap and I was able to adjust the volume, access the forward or backward audio, or pause the song.

Battery life is stellar! I have enjoyed using these headphones for 30 hours with active noise canceling turned on. On top of that, the fast charging of 3 minutes gives about 3 hours of usage time, a pretty good feature. 

Powered with 8 slots for microphones, four total on each ear cup, the call quality is clear and distortion-free. These are lightweight headphones comparatively, weighing only 250 Grams.

Build Quality and Design:

Another perk of the WH-1000XM5 is its sturdy construction.  These are neat, minimalistic styles with a matt finish pleasing users’ aesthetic sense. 

Lastly, the wider ear cups are soft cushioned with synthetic leather material. The sliding headband design contours the wearer’s head. Running to catch a bus or actively moving around the block was a tension with the relief that these headphones did not fall off. 

So, the Sony WH-1000XM5 ensures a continuous and high-resolution playtime, with minimal distraction so you won’t be interpreted in those long music sessions.

Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 599 is an over-the-ear, open-back, rich-sounding headphone famous for its wide and natural soundstage. In my classic jazz era, with these headphones, I had various great,  soul-felt  “in-room” listening sessions. 

Features: 

First of all, a near-perfect balance across treble, bass, and frequency ranges qualifies these headphones for classical music listening. A more deep and expansive sound stage resulted in a refreshing experience of hall-based recordings of old concerts.

Secondly, the mid-range impedance of 50 ohms, ascertains that a high-quality music experience is achieved through diverse audio sources without any need for dedicated high-end amplifiers for casual listening. I would simply connect them to my cellphone and enjoy “Fly Me to the Moon” there and then.

Build and Design Quality: 

Additionally, contributing to the immersive listening experience is its open-back design which lets the sound flow out of the air pads. This 3D illusion felt as if I was listening to music on speakers. 

The open-back design provides a special effect and sets the feeling of airiness during high-treble music so it does not get congested or irritate the listener. 

Connectivity: 

Similarly, diverse connectivity options bring significant convenience and versatility to the usage.  Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 599 features two jacks (6.3 mm and 3.5 mm jacks) broadening its compatibility with a range of devices. I was more comfortable with a 1.2-meter cable, but a 3-meter cable is also provided with these headphones.

Build and Design:

Besides that, HD 599 is a hallmark of elegant appearance as opposed to traditional black-colored headphones. The color appealed to my aesthetics when I bought these headphones for classical music.

Another feature that is of immense attraction for audiophiles for classical music, is its comfortable design. With premium material, the headphones are cozy, comfortable, and lightweight. The headband is padded, and the ear pad materials are easy on the ears to put on ears for hours.

All in all, Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 599 gives a vibe as if you are in a personal concert hall, listening to a live orchestra performance right in your ear.

 Sony MDR7506, a standard tool for studio remixing and reproduction, has been in the market for a long time. This closed-back headphone is a widely recommended tool used by various composers to monitor music. 

I found these headphones very travel-friendly. For those who are always on the go, the Sony MDR7506 is easily folded within a soft storage case for effective packing for your travel endeavors. 

Features:

With their Neodymium magnets and 40 mm drivers, MDR7506 delivers powerful and detailed sound capturing the nuances of classic symphonies. 

In addition, the frequency range covers the full spectrum of human listening capacity. It is dynamic, capturing every sound with ease. The low end of sound frequency (10 Hz) covers the subtle vibrations and sounds amidst the high chimes and blows. 

The upper end of the frequency range (20 KHz) ascertains the bright and rich acoustics are beautifully listened to. With the ability to harmonize deep lows and crisp highs, an old soundtrack will leave an emotional impact.

Build and Design Quality: 

The build quality of the Sony MDR7506 is evident and luxurious through and through. The black-colored, over-the-head design with ease of extended listening is quite an attraction for the enthusiasts of old symphonies. 

Connectivity:

Additionally,  MDR7506 lets you do your stuff despite its wired connectivity. With the 9.8-foot cord, I was able to organize my room, cook, and walk around while my cell phone was on charge.

Gold plated plug transfers the rich and warm tones of the orchestral nuances beautifully. One more thing, the cord can not be detached, the reason I haven’t lost it (yet!).

Plus, a 1/4-inch adapter increases the usability of MDR7506.  This standard adaptor size worked excellent with my home stereo system as well as with my regular work laptop.

Priced under 100 USD, these headphones are pocket-friendly with all the required perks for an enriched listening experience. 

“Listen to the MDR-7506 and you’ll know why it’s remained in the Sony lineup for 22 years.”

(CNET REVIEW)

SENNHEISER HD 569 ranks 7th in my list of best headphones for classical music due to its durability and comfortable build. It achieved a dedicated place in the market due to its capability to capture the tonal intricacies of olden melodies without breaking the bank. 

Features:

Jazz, Operas, violins, piano symphonies, solos, choirs, and orchestral performances, I enjoy them all on  HD 569. Classical symphonies and melodies have a wide range of sound frequencies. 

38mm Proprietary Transducers fitted in these headphones, capture the deep bass, detailed mids, and high-pitched tones in classics optimally. 

Engineered aluminum coil transducers are highly efficient, and dynamic and ensure minimal distortions in the musicality of orchestral symphonies.  

Additionally, HD 569 uses Ergonomic Acoustic Refinement Technology which directs the crisp and clear vocals in Operas directly into the ear. The listener feels everything the composer put into the melody, warm base, peaceful, clear, and natural sound. 

The sound quality is solid, and may even be outright great for those who desire a darker-than-average tuning.

(Headphone.com Review)

Build Quality: 

HD 569 has also done a remarkable job with its build and design. Closed-back wired headphones with warm seams and a durable build! These headphones have a separate place in my heart for their lightweightness. 

HD 569 with an around-ear design, provides passive sound isolation. I could wander with the melody without getting distracted by my family chattering. The wear is convenient with an over-the-head velour cushioned headband. The earcups have soft and replaceable ear-pads suited for music sessions stretched out for hours. 

The black-colored HD 569 with its ergonomic design and competent audio quality is a charming option for those on a budget.

SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 Pro AI is the latest delight for music enthusiasts with its portability and up-to-date tech features. 

I called these an absolute gem for the freedom of enjoying wireless symphony throughout the day anywhere anytime. Buds 3 are my new music buddies while traveling on crowded buses to shop for groceries.

Features: 

I concluded that the Buds 3 Pro did a remarkable job with audio reproduction. It delivers impressive audio quality and a well-balanced sound signature. A frequency response of 96 KHz covers a full dynamic range of old records. From strings to woodwinds and brass, it brings awareness of every instrument without compromising the overall melody.  

Secondly, these are resolute-sounding earphones with AI-driven adaptive noise cancellation. I’d listen to old symphonies at the heart of the composition, knowing I won’t miss it when colleagues visit me for work-related tasks, all because of the adaptive nature of these earbuds. 

Additionally, the Adaptive Equalizer for Sound Optimization in these earbuds ensures that the subtle nuances of classical symphonies are experienced accurately. 

Note: I’d recommend adjusting EQ initially on the Galaxy Wear app to suit your orchestral preferences.  

Build Quality: 

Another attractive feature of Buds 3 Pro is its redesigned comfort fit. Samsung has updated its earbud size to fit a large audience. I have small ears and small-sized Buds 3 Pro fits snugly within my ear.

Furthermore, the customizable gesture commands are intuitive and responsive. In my experience, squeeze controls are a hassle-free option. I minimize accidentally changing a song as it happens with touch control.  

Buds 3 Pro are modern, stylish, and sleek. Super lightweight, comfortable to wear all day long without even noticing these are on. 

Connectivity:

Lastly, the advanced Bluetooth wireless connectivity saves the user from the frustration of managing cords and gives freedom of mobility across various settings and environments.

Conclusion

I must say one needs to make an informed choice of the best headphones for classical music to capture the true essence of the Classical genre. The important specifications to keep in mind are the well-balanced, clear, and detailed sound reproduction. I will recommend models with open backs, wide soundstages, and comfortable constructions, for instance, Beyerdynamic Dt 1990, to enjoy the classical melodies in real time and space.

Buying Guide for Best Headphones for Classical Music

Here’s what needs to be considered while purchasing headphones for classical music: 

Sound Quality:

Classical music is best heard on headphones when it brings clear and detailed sound, with a Neutral Sound Signature alongside a wide Soundstage. Neutral sound stage captures the essence of naturalistic instruments well while extended soundstage frequencies cover a wide range of musical instruments. 

Impedance and Power Requirements:

Headphones with high impedance, such as Beyerdynamic Dt 1990, usually work best for classical music. Impedance affects the quality of music. The higher the impedance, the better the quality and the lower the distortion. While the higher impedance results in the best music quality, it may require a dedicated amplifier for the maximum audio quality. It can also be paired with high-end musical equipment. 

Connectivity Options:

While wireless headphones are becoming more popular, wired ones are still preferred for their high music quality deliverance. Wireless earphones like SAMSUNG Galaxy Buds 3 are becoming a go-to option due to their portability and convenience of usage. 

Open-back vs Closed-back:

Open-back headphones due to the airy and expansive soundstage work best for classical music, these might not be suitable in a social or noisy setting. In a crowded environment, a closed-back headphone provides better sound isolation. 

 “Open-back headphones will provide a wider soundstage — great for reproducing music recorded in a concert hall.”
Moon Audio 

Comfort and Build Quality:

For longer music-listening sessions, comfort is a crucial consideration. Tick the boxes below to ensure a comfortable listening experience through and through:

• Over-ear (Circumaural) headphones are more comfortable than in-ear headphones.
• Ear-cup padding made of soft and plush material increases the comfortability. Look for materials like memory foam or velour in earcup designs. Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 599 uses velour in its ear cups, a breathable material that prevents heat build-up during extended listening periods.
• As for headbands of headphones, they should be adjustable to fit the size of the head. Also, a headband with suitable cushioning and equal weight distribution on both sides prevents strain and pressure on the scalp.

Size and Weight

If you are on the go for most of the day, it is better to consider the travel-friendly aspects of headphones. Look for headphones that can be folded for efficient packing. Some headphones, such as Bowers & Wilkins Px8, come with their customized storage bag. 

Another thing to keep in mind is the weight of the headphones. Bulky headphones are inconvenient for prolonged usage and compromise portability. It is better to look for lightweight headphones that bring comfort and are easier to carry around. Sony MDR7506 is a lightweight headphone that weighs only 230 grams.

Price and cost of Maintenance:

There’s a wide range of headphones for classical music available that differ significantly in price. If you are on a budget go for affordable, cheaper headphones with mid-range features to satiate your music cravings, something like Sony MDR7506. If you are a professional music producer or an audiophile with some money to burn, go for headphones with high-end acoustic features. Bowers & Wilkins Px8 might be the one option for you then. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Are noise-canceling headphones suitable for classical music?

Noise-canceling headphones are suitable for noisy environments as these provide an isolated music experience but with active noise cancellation, the classical music gets flattened. Noise canceling headphones do not capture the full essence of classical harmony hence it is right to say noise canceling headphones are not suitable for classical music. Further, it also depends on the preference of the listener. 

Do I need an amplifier for my headphones when listening to classical music?

A dedicated amplifier is required for headphones when listening to classical music if the headphone’s impedance is greater than 50 ohms. Amplifiers maximize audio quality by improving the clarity, volume, and detail of music. With higher-impedance headphones paired with an amplifier, the listener gets a refined music experience.

What frequency range is best for classical music?

Classical music is best enjoyed on headphones with a frequency range between 20 Hz – 20 KHz. With this range, a headphone covers the intricacy of every classical instrument included in the orchestral symphony of a classical piece. The complex compositions in classical music are clear and crisp as this range covers both low bass tones and high treble notes resulting in an accurate reproduction of a symphony composed years ago. 

Can budget headphones still deliver good sound for classical music?

Yes,  budget headphones deliver good sounds for classical music. One can conveniently find affordable headphones for classical music with good audio reproduction. Budget headphones such as Sony MDR7506 deliver excellent sound for old symphonies. Classics can be enjoyed on mid-range or entry-level headphones with features such as a neutral sound signature and wide soundstage presence.

Michael Smith

I am Michael a Texas-based recording engineer and sound enthusiast. I contribute to Headphones Pedia’s efforts to educate readers about intriguing new devices and other audio-related issues by drawing on their experience working on several sound projects. I also use AI tools to assist with content creation.