As an audiophile, you understand the importance of sound quality and comfort in good audiophile headphones. One crucial factor that influences these aspects is impedance. Low impedance headphones, typically less than 50 ohms, require less power to deliver high audio levels, making them ideal for use with devices with weak amplification like smartphones and portable music players.
Table of Contents
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO
- Open over-ear headphones, ideal for professional mixing, mastering and...
- Perfect for studio applications thanks to their transparent, spacious,...
- The soft, circumaural and replaceable velour ear pads ensure high wearing...
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is a low impedance headphone that has been praised for its excellent sound quality, comfort, and durability. Despite being an older model, it continues to be highly recommended for its performance and value for money. The DT 990 Pro is built almost entirely of plastic, except for the metal band and yoke that suspends the ear cups. This design strategy helps to keep the weight down, which is important for long listening sessions. The ear cups are large and wrapped in velour, adding to the comfort.
Sound-wise, the DT 990 Pro is known for its excellent audio reproduction. The wired headphones is particularly praised for its clear and crisp sound quality, with a lot of detail in high-resolution tracks. However, it may sound a bit sharp at times. The headphones have a wide and immersive passive soundstage. The bass is detailed and present but not domineering, and the mids are described as a breath of fresh, warm air with a natural and realistic presentation.
The DT 990 Pro is also noted for its sturdy build quality, which adds to its longevity. The headband is made completely of metal and has a stylish and detachable padding cover. However, some users have found the headphones to be a bit tight on the head. In terms of aesthetics, the DT 990 Pro has a relatively compact and utilitarian design. The ear cups are covered in a suede-like fabric, giving them a high-end appeal.
Overall, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is highly recommended for those seeking a reasonably priced pair of open-back headphones that deliver excellent sound quality and comfort. This is the Best Low Impedance Headphones.
Sennheiser HD 660 S2
- Natural, relaxed, high-fidelity sound with extra sub bass: Ultra-light...
- Airflow-optimised 42mm high-performance transducers: Improved ventilation...
- Double the sound pressure at the lowest octaves: You can feel the lowest...
The Sennheiser HD 660 S is a pair of open-back headphones that have garnered attention for their comfort, sound quality, and the legacy they carry from their predecessors, the HD 600 and HD 650. These headphones are a modern twist on a classic design, aiming to provide a slightly more laid-back sound while maintaining the familiar comfort Sennheiser is known for.
The HD 660 S is designed with long listening sessions in mind, featuring large ear cups wrapped in velour, which contribute to their overall comfort compared to other headphones. The open-back design, while not suitable for noisy environments due to sound leakage, the dynamic driver offers an expansive soundstage that is highly appreciated for critical listening in quiet spaces with better performance at high volumes.
In terms of sound quality, the HD 660 S is characterized by a lean profile, with a sound signature that is relatively flat from 100Hz to 1kHz, and a gradual roll-off in bass below 100Hz. This tuning results in a sound that is less warm compared to the HD 650 but maintains a high level of clarity and detail. The treble performance is very good, with a fairly flat low-treble and mid-treble, although there is a dip centered around 5kHz which may affect the perception of certain sounds. The HD 660 S has been noted for its strong detail and clarity, providing a natural delivery that Sennheiser headphones are known for. It also offers a more relaxed and less fatiguing tuning compared to some of its family members, making it a good choice for those who want great sound without the need for complex setups.
Despite its strengths, the best audiophile headphones has faced some criticism for its value proposition, especially when compared to other models in the Sennheiser lineup or to competitors in the same price range. Some reviewers have pointed out that while the HD 660 S is a solid performer, there are other options that may offer better value or performance in certain aspects, such as bass extension.
Sennheiser HD 660 S is recommended for audiophiles who value a comfortable fit, a natural and detailed sound, and the open-back design for an immersive listening experience. It stands as a testament to Sennheiser’s commitment to refining and improving their headphone offerings while respecting the heritage of the HD 600 series at an affordable price.
Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm Studio Headphones
- Closed over-ear headphones, ideal for professional recording and monitoring
- Perfect for studio and stage recordings thanks to their pure,...
- The soft, circumaural and replaceable velour ear pads ensure high wearing...
If you need a closed alternative to the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro, then . They have a rugged headphone design and a Beyerdynamic V-shaped sound signature. This is a classic pair of headphones that has been in common use in the production industry for several decades. Their sound isolation is not as precise as that of the DT 990 Pro. This is a drawback associated with the closed back design. However, this does not reflect the quality of the product.
The DT 770 Pro has better bass output impedance than the DT 990 Pro. Being a closed design, the DT 770 Pro can deliver more bass for the audio enthusiasts. The all rounders also have a crisp, clear bass output that doesn’t extend to the mid frequencies. They have an unusually high soundstage, a feature that makes the DT 990 Pro a better choice for its lack. Still, the DT 770 ranks higher than ATH M40X, ATH M50X and most closed-back headsets in their price range.
The Beyerdynamic brand enjoys an excellent reputation in the world of headphones. Whether you’re looking for studio headphones or a portable type, Beyerdynamic has something you can always check out without headphone amp. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohms) is one of the best closed-back headphones you can get at a cheaper price point while still getting audiophile-quality sound.
The overall weight of this headset is negligible for circumaural headphones. The headband is comfortable, and as mentioned earlier, it can be easily adjusted by hand to fit your head shape. The pads are well padded and covered with a very soft and breathable fabric. At first the ear cups are stiff, but after occasional use they become quite comfortable. The clamping force is quite good, it is not noticeable, and you can have the helmet for long hours without getting tired.
For closed headphones, the Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro 80 Ohm is good with passive noise isolation and specifications frequency response. I wouldn’t call it great because in very loud environments they leak a bit in noise, but in normal settings they are fine. Now on to the sound, and start with the bass. The Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm) for me excels in low notes. Initially, when you listen to the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 Ohm, the bass sounds out of control but give it a little time to burn, and the bass becomes more tight and punchy.
Overall, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is a nice pair of closed-ended low impedance headphones. They combine both sound and build quality, making them hard to beat.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Critically acclaimed sonic performance praised by top audio engineers and...
- Proprietary 45 millimeter large aperture drivers with rare earth magnets...
- Exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range with deep...
If you want critical headphones that sound good, but open designs aren’t practical for more casual music listening, get the Audio-Technica M50x. The M50x is among the most popular headphones in the audiophile community thanks to its great sound, durable construction, and affordability.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is probably one of the most recommended headphones as an inexpensive alternative in the world of hi-fi audio. Why? Because these are versatile. They look good, they are foldable and they have good comfort. The ATH-M50x is also well built and seems quite sturdy so they will last a long time. The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is ideal for listening to music; however, these are not neutral enough to be called studio monitors as the name suggests. Find out more about it below.
The audio technica headphones ATH-M50X are closed over-ear headphones. The studio recording headphones hull is well built and although most of the material is plastic it appears to be of high quality. Few pieces of metal are used in the construction of the headband. From our previous experience with the old ATH-M50, the ATH-M50X is also durable. Audio Technica also spiced this up a bit by providing blue, white, and red versions of this model. The ATH-M50x has deep, extended bass, impedance rating, accurately reproduces instruments and vocals, and has excellent highs that are neither too sharp nor too hollow. They are comfortable and feel durable enough to easily last for a few years.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x have closed-back headphones that make them slightly more suitable for commuting and everyday use than the other recommendations on this list. However, this also means that its soundstage is not as spacious and immersive as that created by open models. That said, they sound better than other closed-back headphones in their price category and are a good option for audiophiles looking for a more versatile option with frequency spectrum.
Audeze LCD-1
Audeze LCD-1 low impedance headphones are capable of generating not just crystal clear sound, but also excellent bass and other sound signatures that are hard to come by in any other headphone amplifier. It is unquestionably one of the best amplifiers for people seeking the highest possible sound quality.
The LCD-1 from Audeze is a wonderful wireless headphonesbecause it can effortlessly connect to your iPod or other mp3 player and utilise its built-in six-axis analogue signal processing technology to make your music sound incredibly good. Even while travelling, you will be able to listen to your favourite music thanks to these low impedance headphones. You can take your favourite music with you everywhere you go without worrying about the volume growing too loud or your hands getting sweaty from the portable amplifier’s warmth.
Other open-back headphones, such as the higher-end LCD 2, LCD 3, and others, provide a more intimate soundstage. The build quality is also significantly less sophisticated compared to the higher-end versions, but it still meets Audeze’s excellent standards.
Overall, if you’re searching for a high-end open-back headphone with a low impedance, look no further. The LCD 1 is capable of handling practically any task you throw at it. Pick this up and you will not be disappointed.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones
- Critically acclaimed sonic performance praised by top audio engineers and...
- Proprietary 45 millimeter large aperture drivers with rare earth magnets...
- Exceptional clarity throughout an extended frequency range with deep...
The Audio Technica ATH-M50x low impedance headphones are ideal for those who want to hear their favourite music delivered directly into their ears. This is due to the sophisticated transceivers used in this model, which allow it to work even when the user’s headphone volume is dialled down.
This technology is also employed in Audio Technica’s other high-end headphones, like as the ATH-X perception headphones, however the ATH-M50x low impedance headphones have a lower price tag, making them more affordable than its planar magnetic headphone competitors. It contains all of the features you could possibly want in a headphone model, which is why many people believe it to be the best option for individuals who seek good sound quality without spending a lot of money.
Takstar PRO82
- Designed with 3 level bass adjustment function, user can adjust the bass...
- Ø40mm new NdFeB driver features high sensitivity, wide response range and...
- Adopts high polymer coating diaphragm, pure bass, penetrating mids and...
Tiny and space-saving, the Takstar Pro 82 low impedance headphones are ideal for people who travel frequently or work from home voice coil wires. Takstar Pro 82 is one of the most affordable closed-back headphones that can be used as an alternative to open-back headphones. If the pricing of the Audio Technica M40X and M50X, which are also built as studio monitors, are out of reach, you can get your hands on this pair.
The Pro 82 features a detachable cable, which they share with the SHP 9500. Because the cable is a section of the headphones that is easily prone to failure, such quality is excellent. Furthermore, you have the option of replacing the cable with one that is either shorter or longer in length.
You will not experience any interference when listening to your music because these low impedance headphones feature high-quality driver chips. Also, because the headphones have such little drivers, they don’t pick up any extra noise that your speakers do. The Takstar Pro System is probably your best option if you’re searching for an all-around portable headphone that will help you to get your daily dosage of sound while out doing errands.
Bowers & Wilkins P9 Signature HiFi Over Ear Headphones
- The P9 Signature deliver pristine sound that takes you to the very heart of...
- The P9 Signature headphones are exquisitely crafted from luxuriously high...
- New proprietary piston diaphragm speaker drivers deliver a unique...
If you prefer having a larger ear cup size, then the Bowers & Wilkins’ P9 signature over ear headphones may just be what you need. These headphones come equipped with a large 40mm neodymium magnet speaker unit, which allows users to enjoy rich bass sounds. They also contain two balanced armature tweeters, which produce crisp highs and clear mids.
These headphones are designed to deliver great audio performance, so there should be no complaints regarding the sound quality in music players. However, some consumers complain that the fit isn’t quite right. Some find that the padding around the headband feels too tight, causing discomfort after extended use.
However, despite being slightly uncomfortable, the comfort level does increase once you start using the headphones. You’ll notice that the padded material becomes softer after several hours of wear time. Overall, the Bowers & Wilkin’s P9 signature headphones offer a comfortable design that won’t cause pain during long periods of usage.
The Bowers & Wilkins P9 Signature HiFi Over-Ear Headphones provide access to excellent audio performance without the power requirements of monitor speakers. The crystal clear treble, incisive midrange, and deep strong bass are all guaranteed. The headphones’ build quality should allow you to get better and enhanced efficacy. The forged folding aluminium arms and Italian Saffiano leather greatly increased the durability.
Philips SHP9500 Hifi Precision Stereo Over-Ear Headphones
- 50mm neodymium drivers deliver full spectrum of sound
- 1.5m cable gives you freedom of movement for indoor use
- Comfortable double layered headband cushion, breathable ear cushion for...
Philips SHP 9500 stereo headset has been created specifically for those who want to listen to their favorite tunes without disturbing others or for use with a game consoles. It comes with a foldable cord that lets you take along wherever you go. This model offers a wide frequency range, making it suitable for both casual listeners and audiophile enthusiasts.
It uses a combination of dynamic and passive radiators to ensure that you hear every detail of your songs. Its lightweight construction ensures that you can carry it anywhere you like. With its ergonomic shape, you can comfortably hold it in place even though it weighs only 0.5 pounds. Its soft cushions make sure that you remain comfortable throughout the day. There is nothing more annoying than wearing headphones that feel hard against your ears. That’s why the cushioning system was included in this product.
With its unique design, the Philips SHP 9501H stereo headset delivers exceptional sound quality. It contains three different types of transducers: Dynamic, Passive, and Balanced Armatures. Each type produces distinctively different tones. For example, the Dynamic Transducer creates a bright tone, whereas the Passive Transducer gives a warm tone.
In addition, each transducer works independently of the other ones. As a result, you can adjust the volume levels separately. In fact, the left and right channels can be adjusted individually. So, you can set the volume at a lower level for the left channel and higher for the right one.
GRADO SR60e Prestige Series Wired Open-Back Stereo Headphones
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If you’re looking for an open back headphone that doesn’t cost too much then look no further because Grados are perfect! They come with a detachable cable which means they don’t need any additional cables or adapters when travelling. These headphones also feature noise cancelling technology so if you’re listening to music on public transport or walking around town you shouldn’t worry about anyone else hearing what you’re listening to.
These Grados are made from high grade materials such as stainless steel and titanium which mean they last longer than most headphones. If you’ve got sensitive ears these headphones aren’t going to hurt you either because there isn’t any padding inside the ear cups. However, if you do suffer from tinnitus then you might find yourself having trouble sleeping due to the loudness of the music. The Grados’ sound quality is excellent thanks to the use of balanced armature drivers. You’ll get clear highs, deep lows, crisp mids and smooth bass all rolled into one package.
They weigh just under 1 pound which makes them easy to travel with. Their stylish appearance means they fit well with almost anything whether it’s jeans or suits. Overall, the Grados are ideal for everyday use and they’re definitely worth checking out.
Sony WH-1000XM4
- ACTIVE NOISE CANCELLATION: Premium noise canceling with Dual Noise Sensor...
- LONG BATTERY LIFE: Up to 30-hour battery life with quick charging (10 min...
- TOUCH SENSOR CONTROLS: Pause play skip tracks, control volume, activate...
The Sony WH-1000XM3 wireless over-ear headphones have been designed by Sony specifically for people who want great audio performance without compromising comfort. This model has been created using premium leather and fabric material along with memory foam ear pads.
This pair of headphones features 40mm neodymium driver units which produce powerful sound while maintaining low distortion rates. A built-in microphone allows users to take calls hands free. Moreover, the battery life lasts up to 30 hours per charge. There are two buttons located on top of the headband which allow you to control various functions including play/pause, skip tracks, answer phone call, end call etc. Additionally, the controls are easily accessible via touch screen display.
Sony wh 1000xm4 impedance is amazing and offers impressive noise cancellation capabilities. When connected to compatible devices, the noise reduction function will automatically switch off once the device starts playing music. Furthermore, the headphones support Bluetooth connectivity allowing you to stream content wirelessly from smartphones, tablets, laptops, PCs, smart TVs and gaming consoles.
When not being used, the headphones fold down neatly making storage easier. Also, the cord length is adjustable enabling you to position the headphones where you prefer. Overall, the Sony WH-1000XM3 wireless over-ear headphone offers outstanding value for money. It comes with a sleek design, long lasting batteries, good build quality and superb noise isolation. Therefore, we highly recommend this pair of headphones.
Buying Guide for Low Impedance Headphones
Sound Quality
When considering low impedance headphones, sound quality is paramount. Look for headphones with a wide frequency response, which indicates the range of bass, mids, and treble the headphones can reproduce. A wider range typically means better sound reproduction. Additionally, a flat or neutral frequency response is often preferred by audiophiles as it ensures that the headphones do not color the sound and that you hear the music as it was intended to be heard.
The drivers in the headphones are also crucial for sound quality. Larger drivers can often produce better and more powerful bass, while the material of the driver can affect the clarity and detail of the sound. For instance, dynamic drivers are known for their rich, warm sound, while planar magnetic drivers offer superior detail and accuracy.
Comfort
Comfort is critical, especially for those who listen to music for extended periods. The ear pads should be made of soft, durable materials like memory foam and should provide a good seal for both comfort and sound isolation. The clamping force of the headphones should be firm enough to keep the headphones securely on your head but not so tight that it causes discomfort.
Design
The design of the headphones can affect both comfort and sound quality. Open-back headphones typically offer a more natural and spacious soundstage, which is great for home listening, but they do not isolate sound well, which can be an issue in noisy environments. Closed-back headphones, on the other hand, provide better sound isolation and are more versatile for use in different settings.
Portability is another design consideration. Foldable designs and detachable cables can make headphones more portable and easier to store. For those who travel frequently or like to listen to music on the go, these features can be very beneficial.
Durability
Durability ensures that your investment will last. Look for headphones with a robust build quality, using materials that can withstand the rigors of daily use. Metal components tend to be more durable than plastic, and a replaceable cable can prevent you from having to replace the entire set of headphones if the cable is damaged.
Price
Price is always a consideration, but it’s important to balance cost with the quality and features you need. While higher-priced headphones often offer better sound quality and build, there are many affordable options that provide great value. Set a budget, but be prepared to invest a bit more for features that are important to you, such as sound quality or comfort.
FAQ
What is headphone impedance?
Simply explained, because headphones are electronic devices that run on electricity, they will (naturally) have some resistance to the electrical current flowing through them. Impedance values are closely tied to resistance, but it also takes into account a few other elements.
Why do some headphones run low impedance versions and others run high? What is the best impedance for headphones?
The fact that people listen to music on their phones or mobile devices is one of the main reasons why popular headphone alternatives today are developed with low impedance in mind compared to best high impedance headphones.
People nowadays use their phones to listen to music, podcasts, audiobooks, and other media on the go. It’s more accessible, more widely available, and far more convenient than carrying about even an iPod! Because the market is clamouring for headphones that function well with low impedance, headphone makers are responding. Lower impedance level solutions produce superior sound when connected with these devices, but genuine audiophiles are starting to feel left out in the cold.
How many Ohms should my Low Impedance Headphones be?
You can get away with headphones rated for 8 to 32 ohms if you’re going to be listening to music more casually on a frequent basis (typically on a smartphone, tablet, or computer). Low-impedance headphones like these will perform brilliantly with “underpowered” audio equipment, allowing you to hear the music clearly in a way that is difficult to achieve with higher-impedance headphones. Stick to headphones with a resistance of 32 ohms or less, and you’ll be able to listen to music on pretty much any mobile device from now on.
Does impedance affect sound quality?
While impedance itself does not directly affect sound quality, it can influence how well a device can drive the headphones. Low impedance headphones are easier to drive and are therefore more suitable for devices with weak amplification like smartphones and portable music players.
Are low impedance headphones better for portable devices?
Yes, low impedance headphones are better suited for portable devices like smartphones and portable music players as they require less power to deliver high audio levels.
Can I use low impedance headphones with a high impedance device?
While you can use low impedance headphones with a high impedance device, it may not deliver the best sound quality. It’s best to match the impedance of the headphones with the device for optimal sound quality.
What are the advantages of low impedance headphones?
Low impedance headphones require less power to deliver high audio levels, making them ideal for use with devices with weak amplification like smartphones and portable music players. They are also less likely to be damaged by overloading.
Are there any disadvantages to low impedance headphones?
One potential disadvantage of low impedance headphones is that they may be more susceptible to “blow outs” when using more powerful amplification.
How do I know if a headphone is low impedance?
Most headphones specify their impedance in their technical specifications. Low impedance headphones typically have an impedance of less than 50 ohms.
Can low impedance headphones be used without an amplifier?
Yes, low impedance headphones can be used without an amplifier. They are designed to work well with devices with weak amplification like smartphones and portable music players.
Do low impedance headphones drain battery faster?
While low impedance headphones require less power to deliver high audio levels, they do not necessarily drain the battery faster. The battery drain would depend more on the volume level and duration of use.
Are low impedance headphones good for gaming?
Yes, low impedance headphones can be good for gaming, especially if you are gaming on a portable device like a smartphone or tablet. They deliver high audio levels without requiring a lot of power.