When it comes to gaming, having the right equipment can make all the difference. While most gamers tend to focus on the graphics card or processor, the importance of high-quality audio should not be underestimated.
Audiophile headphones are a must-have for any serious gamer who wants to immerse themselves in the game and hear every detail. In this article, we will explore the best audiophile headphones for gaming, and what makes them stand out from the crowd.
Factors To Consider Before Buying Best Audiophile Headphones For Gaming
When it comes to buying audiophile headphones, there are several factors that one needs to consider to ensure a satisfying listening experience. Here are two crucial factors that you should keep in mind before buying audiophile headphones:
Sound Quality
Sound quality is perhaps the most important factor that you should consider when purchasing audiophile headphones.
High-quality headphones are designed to reproduce sound with accuracy and clarity, and they should be able to deliver a frequency response that is as flat as possible, with a minimal amount of distortion.
When you’re evaluating sound quality, you should look for headphones that produce a balanced sound, meaning that the bass, mids, and treble are all well-balanced and don’t overpower each other.
It’s also important to look for headphones that have a wide soundstage, meaning that the audio sounds like it’s coming from a wide area, instead of being tightly focused.
Comfort
Another important factor to consider when buying audiophile headphones is comfort. Since you’ll be wearing your headphones for long periods of time, it’s important to find a pair that fits comfortably and doesn’t cause any discomfort or pain.
There are several factors that can impact comfort, including the weight of the headphones, the padding on the ear cups and headband, and the clamping force of the headphones. You should look for headphones that are lightweight and have plush ear cups and headband padding that are soft and comfortable to wear.
12 Best Audiophile Headphones For Gaming
There are plenty of best gaming headset and best non gaming headphones for gaming available, including audiophile headphones that are also well-suited for gaming. In this post, we will be discussing the best audiophile headphones for gaming.
Sennheiser HD 800 S
The Sennheiser HD 800 S headphones are an excellent option for audiophiles and gamers seeking exceptional sound quality and accuracy.
Their wide frequency range and dynamic range of 6–51,000 Hz (-10 dB) ensure that every sound is reproduced with incredible precision, making them perfect for picking up subtle details in music and gaming sound effects.
The open-back design also offers a more immersive soundstage, allowing gamers to locate and identify sounds in 3D space with ease.
If you’re looking for the best sound quality and performance from your headphones, the Sennheiser HD 800 S headphones are a top choice. Their exceptional clarity and accuracy make them ideal for discerning listeners who demand the very best in audio quality.
Whether you’re a music lover or a serious gamer, these headphones will provide you with an immersive and unforgettable audio experience that’s unmatched by any other headphones on the market. Thus it is considered as one of the best audiophile headphones for gaming.
Pros
- Excellent sound quality
- Wide soundstage
- High-quality materials
- Durable construction
Cons
- Not portable
Our Remarks:
The sound quality is excellent and the headphones are made of high-quality materials, but they are not portable. This feature can be ignored if it is not a priority.
Audeze LCD-2
The Audeze LCD-2 is a popular choice among audiophiles and gaming enthusiasts due to its exceptional sound quality and immersive audio experience.
The headphones are equipped with a wide frequency response range and a large soundstage, providing accurate and detailed sound reproduction that enhances the gaming experience.
In addition to its impressive sound quality, the Audeze LCD-2 is also designed with comfort and durability in mind, making it an ideal choice for extended gaming sessions.
With its high-end features and construction, it’s no wonder that the Audeze LCD-2 is widely considered one of the best headphones for audiophiles and gamers alike. However, some people complain that the headset produces unnatural sounds.
Pros
- Detailed and accurate sound
- High-quality materials and construction
- Excellent bass response
- Wide soundstage
Cons
- Cable is not detachable
Our Remarks:
This product has accurate sound with a solid base, but lacks detachable cables. You can still consider purchasing it, disregarding this feature.
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro
It is considered as one of the best beyerdynamic headphones for gaming. The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro headphones are a top-tier choice for audiophiles seeking exceptional sound quality and comfort. They boast a wide frequency response range, providing detailed and accurate sound reproduction for music and gaming enthusiasts alike.
Their open-back design creates a spacious soundstage and natural audio imaging, enhancing the overall listening experience. Additionally, the two sets of earpads allow for customization, enabling users to fine-tune both the sound and comfort to their liking.
Overall, the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro headphones offer an unparalleled combination of sound quality, comfort, and customization options, making them an ideal choice for audiophiles seeking the ultimate gaming experience.
With their exceptional performance and versatile features, these headphones are sure to impress even the most discerning of listeners. Thus it is considered as one of the best audiophile headphones for gaming.
Pros
- Comfortable fit for long sessions
- Interchangeable ear pads/cables
- Comes with two sets of ear pads
- Detailed and balanced sound
Cons
- Not as portable as some other options
Our Remarks:
This is a set of air pads that are easy to wear and get fitted. However, it is not portable. You can purchase it.
HiFiMan Arya
The HiFiMan Arya headphones have become a go-to choice for audiophiles who prioritize sound quality and comfort in their headphones.
HIFIMAN’s Stealth Magnet technology enables sound waves to pass through without generating interference, resulting in reduced distortion and pure sonic output.
This breakthrough technology is acoustically transparent and dramatically reduces wave diffraction turbulence that degrades sound integrity.
The Arya headphones feature a nanometer-thickness diaphragm, the first of its kind in headphone application. This challenging technology is the cornerstone of Arya’s remarkable sound, resulting in accurate and full-range audio.
The Arya headphones also boast a sturdy metal headband and high-grade plastic construction for lightweight comfort and rugged durability. The patented “Window Shade” system and asymmetrical ear cups provide optimized open-back design and driver protection.
Additionally, the bold black aesthetic of the Arya headphones is a statement of both aesthetic and sonic excellence.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Planar magnetic drivers
- Comes with premium carrying case
- Detailed and natural sound
Cons
- Some users may find treble too bright
Our Remarks:
It comes with a premium carrying case and has detailed and natural sound. However, some people may not prefer its quality. Overall, it has good features.
Focal Utopia
The Focal Utopia headphones are widely recognized as the top-tier choice for audiophiles seeking the highest level of sound quality.
The first audiophile headphones that featured open-backed full-range speaker drivers with pure Beryllium ‘M’-shaped domes are an impressive feat of engineering. With a frequency response ranging from 5Hz to 50kHz, these headphones provide exceptional clarity, dynamics, and natural sound reproduction, making them stand out from the competition.
Moreover, the headphones’ design is both sophisticated and elegant, with a carbon fiber yoke and true lambskin leather ear cushions that add to their luxurious feel.
This purposeful materiality not only enhances the headphones’ aesthetic appeal but also contributes to their overall durability and longevity.
Overall, these audiophile headphones set a high standard for the industry and represent a significant advancement in sound technology. Thus it is considered as one of the best audiophile headphones for gaming.
Pros
- Open-back design for spacious sound
- Exceptional detail and resolution
- High-quality materials and construction
- Comfortable fit for long sessions
Cons
- Open-back design leaks sound
Our Remarks:
This headset has been crafted with excellent quality and is very easy to wear. However, it can produce a sound that is somewhat lacking in clarity. Overall, its features are good.
Audio-Technica ATH-R70x
The Audio-Technica ATH-R70x headphones are an excellent choice for professionals seeking high-quality sound and comfort during extended listening sessions. The headphones boast high-quality features designed to deliver a premium listening experience.
With high-efficiency magnets and a pure alloy magnetic circuit design, the headphones can minimize distortion and produce accurate high-frequency responses.
Additionally, a carbon composite resin enhances the headphones’ structural rigidity, resulting in a detailed transient response that captures even the subtlest of nuances.
Furthermore, the headphones feature acoustically transparent aluminum honeycomb-mesh housings that provide a natural and spacious open-back sound. This, coupled with breathable fabric earpads and improved wing support, ensures long-wearing comfort.
The headphones are also incredibly lightweight, weighing in at around 210 g without the cable, and robustly constructed, making them a perfect fit for professional use.
All in all, these headphones are an excellent choice for discerning listeners who value both sound quality and comfort.
Pros
- Accurate and balanced sound signature
- Comfortable fit for long sessions
- Lightweight design for portability
- High-quality materials and construction
Cons
- Not ideal for bass-heavy music
Our Remarks:
This headset provides the best fit for wearing and comes with accurate bass. However, it does deliver slightly heavy music. This feature can be ignored if desired when making a purchase decision.
AKG K812
The AKG K812 headphones are a top-of-the-line option for both professional and audiophile use. The K812 headphones boast large 53 mm transducers that deliver a highly precise and powerful listening experience.
With an ultra-light voice coil, these headphones offer an impressive frequency response of up to 54 kHz. This means that even the most subtle nuances in the music can be heard, resulting in an incredibly detailed sound.
The K812 headphones feature a 36-ohm impedance, making them easy to drive with a variety of devices, including laptops, smartphones, and professional audio equipment. The package also includes a headphone stand, allowing for convenient storage when not in use.
Overall, the K812 headphones are a top-of-the-line choice for those looking for a high-quality listening experience with excellent detail and clarity. Overall, the AKG K812 headphones are an excellent investment for anyone who values exceptional audio performance. That’s why it is considered as one of the best audiophile headphones for gaming.
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality
- Accurate and detailed sound signature
- Comfortable fit for long sessions
- High-quality materials and construction
Cons
- Heavy weight can cause fatigue
Our Remarks:
This headset boasts exceptional sound quality and features air pads in its design, resulting in minimal sound leakage. However, its weight is a bit on the higher side.
Sennheiser HD 660 S
The Reference class open-back dynamic headphone is designed to deliver exceptional accuracy and presentation of stereo-spatial characteristics, thanks to the new and improved transducers that deliver low harmonic distortion.
The transducers are hand-selected for precise left/right matching tolerance, ensuring exceptional sound quality. It is also one of the best sennheiser headphones for gaming.
With a nominal impedance of 150 ohms, these headphones can be directly connected to both home and mobile Hi-Res audio devices. The detachable cables are reinforced with para-aramid and employ high-conductive OFC copper to ensure signal integrity with very low handling noise.
The package includes two connection cables, one with a 6.35-millimeter stereo plug and the other with a 4.4-millimeter Pentaconn balanced stereo plug, as well as a 6.35-millimeter to 3.5-millimeter adapter.
Overall, the Reference class open-back dynamic headphone is a top-of-the-line choice for audiophiles looking for exceptional sound quality and precision in their headphones.
With a frequency response of 10 to 41,000 Hz and an impedance of 150 ohms, these headphones provide a wide range of sound and compatibility with a variety of audio devices.
Thus, making the Sennheiser HD 660 S is an excellent choice for audiophiles who demand high-quality audio reproduction and gamers who want to experience the full audio spectrum of their favorite games.
Pros
- Comfortable fit for long sessions
- Detachable cable with 6.35mm adapter
- High-quality materials and construction
- Open-back design for spacious sound
Cons
- Expensive price point
Our Remarks:
This headset has an open-back design and is very easy to wear, but it is slightly more expensive compared to other options available in the market.
Grado RS1e
The Grado RS1e is a high-end pair of headphones with impressive technical specifications. The dynamic transducer type ensures clear and accurate sound reproduction, while the open-air operating principle creates a spacious and natural soundstage.
The frequency response range of 12-30 kHz means that the headphones can produce a wide range of frequencies, from deep bass to sparkling highs.
The SPL 1mV of 98 ensures that the headphones can produce powerful and dynamic sound even at low volumes.
With a normal impedance of 32 ohms, the headphones are suitable for use with a wide range of audio devices, including smartphones, laptops, and portable music players.
Additionally, the driver-matched db of .05 ensures that the left and right drivers are carefully matched, resulting in a balanced and accurate sound. Overall, the Grado RS1e is an excellent choice for audiophiles who demand the highest quality sound from their headphones. Thus it is considered as one of the best audiophile headphones for gaming.
Pros
- Warm and natural sound signature
- Handcrafted from high-quality materials
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Open-back design for spacious sound
Cons
- Earpads can be uncomfortable for some
Our Remarks:
This headset is lightweight and has an open-back design feature. However, some people may not prefer its ear pads.
Stax SR-L700
The Stax SR-L700 is a high-end electrostatic headphone that delivers exceptional sound quality and performance. The headphones feature ultra-thin diaphragms that vibrate in response to an electric charge, resulting in detailed and nuanced sound reproduction.
Their exceptional soundstage creates an immersive listening experience that audiophiles and gamers appreciate. The headphones’ fast response time and accurate imaging make them ideal for gaming, as they provide players with precise audio cues that enhance their gameplay.
The Stax SR-L700 is a top-of-the-line headphone that delivers superior sound quality and performance. With their lightweight diaphragms and exceptional soundstage, they offer an immersive listening experience that’s hard to beat.
They’re also ideal for gamers who demand accurate audio cues that enhance their gameplay. Overall, the Stax SR-L700 headphones are a top choice for audiophiles and gamers who want the best sound quality and performance from their headphones.
Pros
- Ultra-thin membrane drivers
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Open-back design for spacious sound
- High-quality materials and construction
Cons
- Requires specialized electrostatic amplifier
Our Remarks:
This headset features an open-back design and an ultra-thin membrane, but it requires an amplifier to function properly.
Shure SRH1540
The Shure SRH1540 headphones are an excellent choice for those looking for superior sound quality and comfort. With 40mm neodymium drivers, these headphones deliver outstanding acoustic performance, providing a clear and extended soundstage with warm bass and clear highs.
Whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or playing games, the SRH1540 headphones provide an immersive experience.
The closed-back, circumaural design of the headphones helps reduce background noise, allowing you to focus on your music without any distractions. Additionally, the dual-frame, padded headband is lightweight and fully adjustable, providing hours of listening comfort.
The headphones are also built to last, with an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy yoke and carbon fiber cap that enhance durability.
The steel driver frame with a vented center pole piece helps improve linearity and eliminates internal resonance for consistent performance at all listening levels.
If you encounter any issues with the headphones, the user manual provides troubleshooting steps to help you resolve the problem.
Pros
- Lightweight and comfortable design
- Detachable cable with two lengths
- High-quality materials and construction
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
Cons
- Cable is not braided or balanced
Our Remarks:
The cable has a high-quality material, but its length is not balanced. You can buy this ignoring this minute con.
ROCCAT Syn Pro Air
The ROCCAT Syn Pro Air is a wireless gaming headset that boasts impressive features and high-quality audio performance. It uses ROCCAT’s proprietary AIMO intelligent lighting system, which offers dynamic lighting effects that react to your gaming actions and surroundings.
The headset also features a detachable, noise-canceling microphone that provides crystal-clear voice communication and a built-in USB sound card that delivers high-fidelity audio.
One of the standout features of the ROCCAT Syn Pro Air is its battery life, which can last up to 24 hours on a single charge. It also supports fast charging, allowing you to quickly top up the battery and get back to gaming.
The headset is compatible with multiple platforms, including PC, Mac, Xbox, and PlayStation, and comes with a 3.5mm audio jack for use with mobile devices. Overall, the ROCCAT Syn Pro Air is an excellent wireless gaming headset that provides a great balance of features, performance, and comfort.
Pros
- AIMO intelligent RGB lighting
- Active noise-cancellation and sidetone
- Wireless connectivity for convenience
- High-quality audio with 3D sound
Cons
- Requires Roccat’s software for customization
Our Remarks:
These headphones have active noise-cancellation and sidetone, which can enhance the overall listening experience. However, one potential downside is that the headphones require Roccat’s software for customization, which may be inconvenient for some users.
Conclusion
Investing in a pair of best audiophile headphones for gaming can truly enhance your gaming experience. The headphones we have discussed in this article offer superior sound quality, comfort, and durability.
However, the best audiophile headphones for gaming ultimately depend on your personal preferences, budget, and gaming setup. Be sure to consider the features that matter most to you before making a purchase. With the right headphones, you’ll be able to hear every sound and truly immerse yourself in your favorite games.
Anneq Aish Choudhary is a passionate writer with a keen interest in headphones and music. With years of experience in writing about technology, Anneq has a deep understanding of the latest trends and innovations in the headphone industry. Anneq’s articles provide valuable insights into the best headphones on the market.