07 Best Headphones For Drummers

Aiming to reach new performance heights in drumming? A drummer needs dedication, focus, and a good headphone set to thrive. While the first two are on the drummer’s part, I have taken care of the third element, which is the best drumming aid: headphones.

Below is the ultimate list of the best headphones for drummers to accompany you on your drumming journey above and beyond. 

Keep reading to get a more in-depth review of each headphone, followed by a list of features that a headphone for drumming must have.

Best Headphones For Drummers

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (Best Overall for Electronic Drums)

A winner in my book of best headphones for drummers, Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro are top-of-the-line headphones for electronic drum kits. 

I’ll be shedding light on the key features that professional drummers love about this product. 

Sound Profile:

The DT 770 Pro hits the mark with studio-quality sound reproduction. These headphones capture both low-end and high-end sound with a responsive frequency range of 5 Hz—35 kHz, perfect for rhythm-based instruments like drums. 

With a Dynamic Driver and  250 Ohm impedance, these headphones capture every beat of music by electronic drum kits with unmatched clarity!
Suitable for studio work, it reproduces sound clearly and without distortion ( up to 96 dB SPL).

Connectivity:

Supporting wire connectivity, Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro contains a 3m Coiled Stereo Cable and a 6.35mm (1/4″) Stereo Jack Plug.

My drumming experience was flawless and smooth when DT 770 Pro was connected with an entry-level Roland TD-1K drum kit (3.5 mm jack) and a high-end Yamaha DTX6K2-X drum kit (6.35 mm jack). 

Portability:
DT 770 Pro can be folded and packed with ease. The company also provides a Soft black colored drawstring bag with headphones that could be used to store them.

These headphones are not water-resistant so you can not put them on on a rainy day. Other than that, these headphones are a bit bulkier compared to other options in the market (1.5 Pounds). It can be uncomfortable for some people, but for me, I did not feel strain or ear fatigue, this may be because of its build and equal weight distribution across both ends.

Build Quality:

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is made to stand the test of time. Their build and material ensure that these headphones perform well and last long. Enclosed in Metal and Pleather, these headphones are resilient, durable, and ergonomic.

While it may not have an active sound cancellation, the closed-back design compensates it with passive sound isolation. 

These are designed to be worn for lengthy drumming sessions. Over Ear placement with soft and plush velour material used in ear-cups, ear fatigue, and pressure on the head is minimized to non-existent levels. 

Traditional yet classy black-shaded headphones are bundled with a 6AVE Cleaning Cloth and a Headphone Splitter.

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is widely popular in the drumming profession for mixing and producing music, as it is the verdict by the drum silent. 

BASN Bmaster5 in Ear Monitors Best for Live Drum Solos 

BASN Bmaster5 in Ear Monitors is a prime option in the sea of headphones and monitors that are marketed towards drummers. When I first put these on, I was blown away by their performance. 

Sound Profile:

BASN Bmaster5 IEMs deliver dynamic sound quality. But before getting into the details of its sound profile, let’s talk about the most necessary things during a live drumming performance. The Sound Isolation blocks out external noise from the crowd so the drummer can get into the groove in a distraction-free environment.

Now, about sound signature, these IEMs deliver deep bass and crisp treble. Mids are reasonably clear and are not overshadowed.  

BASN Bmaster5 IEMs have upgraded to an 8mm liquid silicone diaphragm driver, hence a high-resolution sound quality, hence a clear instrument sound clarity.

Connectivity:

BASN Bmaster5 IEMs have standard connectivity options. These are wired in-ear monitors that are compatible with any 3.5 mm jack supporting digital audio source (3.5 mm stereo plug). 

Multi-purpose cables for casual and professional work are provided. One is a detachable, tangle-free, and Silver-plated OFC cable, and the other one is a high-quality Mic cable with In-line volume control for casual everyday use. 

Build Quality:

BASN Bmaster5 IEMs are made with plastic material. With their lightweight and functional construction, I find it convenient to go around with these for casual use as well. 

BASN Bmaster5 offers versatile options for earbuds for custom fit. 12 earbud tips in silicone and memory foam are provided. A drummer has the freedom to choose between comfortable memory foam or snug-fit silicone earbuds.

BASN Professional in Ear Monitor Headphones – Best for Instrumental Music

BASN Professional in Ear Monitor Headphones are INCREDIBLE headphones. From sound quality to stylish looks, these headphones mix aesthetics with functionality.
Here’s a breakdown of how they align with drummers’ preferences based on common features and user feedback:

Sound Profile:

BASN Pro brings to the table a top-notch sound reproduction with little to no distortion. These headphones cater to the needs of drummers performing live. 

BASN Professional in Ear Monitor Headphones is a treat for drummers and other musicians in rhythm sections.  These headphones have done a remarkable job in the bass department. Mids and treble are also smooth, smoothing out sharp annoying sounds during live stage concerts. 

The sound isolation feature blocks the ambient noise of concert crowds, while a wide soundstage allows drummers to focus on the click tracking of every beat. 

Connectivity:

BASN Pro brings peace of mind with the wired connectivity during live performances. I did not have to worry about battery and connectivity issues amid a live show.

With a low impedance of 18 Ohm, I was happy that there was no hassle of carrying the amplifier and enjoyed my instrumental audio just about on any device. 

Build Quality:

Even after using these headphones for a few weeks, I am still in awe of their sophisticated design. BASN Pro is built for rigorous use, is ergonomic, and sturdy in construction.  

Soft silicone ear tips are comfortable and block out background sound. In the beginning, I had to struggle a bit to find my exact earbud size, a pretty standard procedure, but as I have found the right size, I am at peace now.

Alesis DRP100 (Cheapest Isolation Headphones for Acoustic Drums)

Alesis DRP100 is the go-to choice for acoustic drummers for its rich sound quality and sound isolation capacity. Alesis DRP100 caters to the needs of drummers at a very cheap price mark without compromising on the sound quality.

Sound Profile:

Alesis DRP100 ‘s sound isolation design is ideal for electronic drum monitoring. To my surprise, it was a big plus for performing in deafening concerts. 

DRP100 has a clear audio output. It yields powerful bass for rhythm clarity, and clear mids and highs.

Connectivity:

Alesis DRP100 boasts a reliable wired connection through a standard 3.5 mm Jack. 

I liked how it came with a detachable cable. 

As cables get damaged with the rigors of drumming sessions, I was at ease that this cable if damaged could be swapped with another without the need to buy a new headset. A detachable adds to the portability, longevity, and tangle-free experience. 

Portability:
The foldable earcup design makes storage of Alesis DRP100 as easy as pie.  These are portable and compact for on-the-go musicians. The cherry on the top is its waterproof construction that lets you groove to the Bonzo anywhere anytime.

Alesis DRP100, tipping the scale at 0.8 Pounds, is a moderately lightweight headphone set that might weigh you down during rigorous drumming.

Build Quality:

This elegant, over-ear headset is a sight for a sore eye. When I took them out of the box, I just couldn’t keep myself from praising them for their elegant craftsmanship. 

Alesis DRP100 features a durable build, comfortable ear pads, and an adjustable headband for convenience and comfortable wear in long acoustic drumming sessions. 

Adjustable headband allows a custom fit rest on the head that does not fall off the head due to frequent movement while drumming.

Roland VMH-D1 (Best for Electronic Drums Under $200)

Roland VMH-D1 is a premium headphone, tailored for professional monitoring on all electronic drum kits. Looking at the specification chart before ordering these, I anticipated quality work, and man! They did not disappoint me. Roland VMH-D1 is where quality meets affordability. 

Sound Profile:

Roland VMH-D1 delivers phenomenal sound quality; clear crisp and immersive listening experience. Drummers stay in sync with their beat, distortion-free even at high volumes. 

With a clear crisp and immersive listening experience, Ronald VMH-D1 has expertly achieved balance across the sound profile. With its dynamic 50mm drivers, from snare to cymbals, every instrument is felt and heard as it is.

Alongside the immersive sound experience, this headset boasts better sound isolation compared to most sound-isolation headphones marketed towards drummers.  

Connectivity:

Roland VMH-D1 offers wired connectivity. It has two different-length cables with a unique cable attachment that holds the cable at the back.

Roland has solved a common connectivity problem that I have encountered frequently. Almost all studio headphones have lengthy wires to give freedom of movement, but those wires get tangled with drumsticks all the time, interfering with the flow and causing damage to the instrument.

Roland VMH-D1 solved this issue with a feature to attach cables behind drummers’ ears and back, which I personally find very convenient. 

Portability:
Roland VMH-D1 is made for professional musicians to use and monitor their mixes inside the studio. It weighs about 1.38 pounds, quite heavy to wear and walk around. 

While they can be folded to store in a carrying pouch provided, I kept these hanging to my studio kit using the headphone hanger that came with the bundle. This hangar was a real deal to keep the gear in place saving it from the potential damage of putting it just anywhere.  

Build Quality:

Another area in which Roland VMH-D1 headphones excel is Comfort. With the soft padded headband and ear-cups, these headphones are pleasant to wear for extended duration. 

Drumming is a physical activity, a full-body workout during which a lot of sweating and dampening happens. Over Ear large memory foam earpads and a cushioned headband withstand this rigorous workout,

Roland VMH-D1 has a closed-back design, it is a sturdy and well-constructed headset, admired for durability.

Shure SE215 Excellent Noise Attenuation

Shure SE215  brings about an impressive acoustics profile, qualifying it to be added to the best headphones for drummers list. Shure SE215 is an in-ear headphone that yields a whimsical combination of performance with reliability. 

Sound Profile:

Shure SE215 has been popular in the audiophile community for quite a long time. It has remarkably maintained a good sound quality for a long period. Shure SE215 handles dynamic sound impressively and delivers fascinating acoustics. 

With its innovative bass-reflex system, accurate frequency response, and super noise attenuation, Shure SE215 excels in drumming. It perfectly captures the nuances of drumming with strong sound isolation, the drum player is immersed in beats, focusing on metronome clicks or backing tracks without interference.

Connectivity:

Shure SE215 offers wired connectivity where the cable is attached at the top and goes behind the era. Initially, I struggled to adjust to this arrangement as I wasn’t used to the upward cable attachment. In the subsequent weeks, it became comfortable and I barely noticed it as something unusual. As a matter of fact, it gave a more chic and cool vibe. Moreover, as this cable is reinforced with Kevlar, I’m certain that it will last long.

Portability:
Shure SE215 weighs about 30 grams, quite lightweight and portable. In the beginning, some time is required to adjust to their upward cable attachment feature but after that, it is good to put it on and do your stuff. Also, it can be stored in a nice and stylish storage case provided with the headphones.

Build Quality:

Shure SE215 is thoughtfully engineered to make it resilient in the face of rigorous playing sessions. The detachable cable can be easily replaced when damaged, adding to the longevity of the headphones. The box contains six pairs of tips (3 for each foam and silicone). After adjusting to the right tip size, the difference in ambient sound was heavily noticeable. 

Drumeo EarDRUM – Best Triple Driver Headphones for Drummers

Last but not least is Drumeo EarDRUM. The list of best headphones for drummers is concluded with my take on Drumeo’s EarDRUM headphones. These elegant blue-colored IEMs are not just for the pros but can also be used for casual purposes. 

Sound Profile:

The highlight of Drumeo EarDRUM is its triple Drivers resulting in premium audio quality. Critical sound monitoring is possible only due to 2 dynamic drivers and one balanced armature driver. 

From the kick drum’s thump to the ghost sounds and shimmers of hi-hats, Drumeo EarDRUM accurately reproduces sound across frequencies. I found the sound signature well-balanced, crystal clear mids and highs, and a well-served bass. 

Drumeo EarDRUM headphone provides super sound isolation. Conveniently blocks out external sounds up to -29 dB volume.

Connectivity and Control:

Drumeo EarDRUM follows a standard protocol of wired connectivity via a 3.5 mm jack. 

Drumeo EarDRUM features a unique option of touch control for in-ear monitors. The touch control is convenient to adjust volume amid performance quickly according to the surroundings.

Portability:
Another hit feature of Drumeo EarDRUM is being super lightweight. They are convenient to carry around with you. 

Build Quality:

Drumeo EarDRUM has a premium blue color in the earbuds. The enclosing material is plastic, which I did not find flattering on these IEMs, it’s a matter of personal choice though. Drumeo EarDRUM does have a stable fit.  Ergonomic earpiece nose and soft earbuds prevent the monitors from falling out during vigorous playing.

Conclusions

This compiled list of best headphones for drummers excels in stage performance, studio use, and professional monitoring. 

Whether it’s Shure SE215’s impressive mid-range detail or Drumeo EarDrums’s super sound isolation, these headphones appeal to drummers and musicians for various high-end features. 

These headphones and In-Ear monitors have been tried and tested across multiple domains, and their portability, sound reproduction abilities, and build quality to withstand extreme drum practices. 

To wrap it all up, these headphones and In-Ear monitors ensure an immersive drumming experience without compromising the rhythm.  

Buying Guide to Select Headphones for Drumming

Following are some worthy factors a drummer should consciously look for while buying headphones for drumming.

Noise Isolation & Attenuation:

The first thing to watch out for in a headphone for drumming is its ability to isolate and attenuate sound. It helps drummers focus on the click tracks and audio playback without interference from outside noise and their kit’s loud pitch during live performances and studio recordings. 

Frequency Response:

Drummers with kick drums and toms benefit more from low-end responses produced from their headphones. It helps in capturing clear bass frequencies without getting a muffled or muddy sound. 

Always, keep in mind that one frequency range shouldn’t overpower others range as well. This can result in fatigue and an imbalanced sound profile. Look for headphones with a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20 KHz that produce a balanced sound profile.

Durability:

Durability matters for headphones for drumming as these headphones have to go through extreme drumming sessions. Headphones with reinforced headbands and hinges, sweat and moisture resistance, and replaceable earpads last longer. The quality of earpads and earbuds material adds to the durability of headphones. 

Comfort and Fit:

High movement during drumming requires that headphones are tailor-made for your head and ear size. Drumming is already an exhausting/physical activity, a headphones should be comfortable for extended jamming sessions without straining neck or ear fatigue.

Cable Type and Length:

Cable type and quality impressively add to the value of headphones.
It is recommended to choose thick, detachable, or braided cables. These cables can withstand tugging and carefree handling. Use a cable with appropriate length, not too long that it gets tangled with every other thing and not too short that it restricts your movement.

Sound Isolation or Noise-Canceling Features in headphones for drumming:

Headphones with closed-back designs and snug ear paddings filter out surrounding noise, resulting in Passive sound isolation. 

Some headphones feature an Active Noise canceling option that actively senses and blocks ambient noise, generating a focused and immersive experience of the task at hand which is drumming.

Driver Size and Type:

Another critical feature to look for in headphones for an immersive drumming experience is driver size and type. Soundhub outlines 6 different types of drivers, their details are beyond the scope of this buying guide. 

Therefore, I would suggest the two most essential options for drivers; Dynamic and Balanced Armature Drivers.

Most of the headphones have Dynamic drivers which produce a strong bass response. 40-50mm dynamic drivers are sufficient to produce high-quality low-end response, ideal for drumming. 

Another type of driver is a Balanced Armature Driver. It is relatively smaller in size, usually used in in-ear monitors. This Driver produces clear and detailed mids and highs.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there specific headphones designed to handle high decibels that drummers often experience?

Drummers are exposed to loud sounds for an extended duration. This rigorous practice often results in various health and hearing concerns. To mitigate these health problems, remedial steps have been taken. One is creating customized headphones for drumming, Vic Firth Stereo Isolation Headphones V2 (SIH2) is tailor-made for the drummers and addresses multiple issues related to drumming practice.

Do drummers need headphones with bass enhancement?

Yes, drummers do need headphones with bass enhancement. Enhanced bass headphones allow a perfect sound separation to hear the low-end sound of the drumming kit. It also matches drumming instruments with other sounds in the rhythm precisely. Deep and well-captured bass response is a charm for rhythm musicians (drummers, guitars, etc.)

Should drummers wear headphones?

Yes, it is recommended for drummers to wear headphones. In a professional setting, during live performances or recording in a studio, a drummer needs to monitor the click tracks so they can be in sync with other musicians. Also, headphones with noise cancellation help drummers protect their precious hearing capability as they are constantly exposed to high-pitched sounds.  

Do professional drummers wear earplugs?

Yes, professional drummers wear earplugs for various purposes. Earplugs reduce the sound pressure entering the ears. It protects them from loud sound-induced hearing problems such as hyperacusis and Tinnitus. Exposure to Sound over 80 dB is recommended for a short and limited time use to avoid hearing concerns. 

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.