Audiophile headphones are designed to deliver exceptional sound quality, with superior accuracy and clarity. While these headphones can be quite expensive, there are some great options available for those who are on a budget.
In this article, we will explore the 10 best audiophile headphones under $1000, that provide excellent sound quality, comfort, and durability without breaking the bank.
Best Audiophile Headphones Under $1000
Here are the following Best Audiophile Headphones Under $1000:
Sennheiser HD 660 S
The Sennheiser HD 660 S headphones are a top-of-the-line product designed for audiophiles who demand the highest quality sound.
They feature new and improved transducers that deliver low harmonic distortion, ensuring exceptional accuracy and presentation of stereo spatial characteristics.
The transducers are hand selected for precise left/right matching tolerance, further enhancing their accuracy.
With a 150 ohm nominal impedance, the HD 660 S headphones can be directly connected to home and mobile high-resolution audio devices.
The best sennheiser headphones for gaming come with two detachable cables that are reinforced with para-aramid for durability and employ high-conductive OFC copper to ensure signal integrity with very low handling noise.
The cables also come with different plug sizes, including a 6.35-millimeter stereo plug, a 4.4-millimeter Pentaconn balanced stereo plug, and a 6.35-millimeter to 3.5-millimeter adapter for added convenience.
Pros
- Precise and detailed sound
- Comfortable for long listening sessions
- Open-back design for natural sound
- High-quality materials and construction
Cons
- Not ideal for noisy environments
Our Remarks:
Overall, the Shure SRH1540 provides a precise and detailed sound with a comfortable fit, making it great for extended listening sessions. However, its closed-back design may not be ideal for noisy environments.
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro headphones are open-back best studio headphones for gaming that are made in Germany.
The 45mm dynamic Tesla neodymium drivers provide accurate and precise sound reproduction, making them ideal for mixing and mastering in a studio environment.
These headphones have a high impedance of 250 ohms, making them perfect for use with a dedicated headphone amplifier.
The DT 1990 Pro headphones come with a detachable cable that uses mini-XLR connectors for easy replacement. The single-sided cable design also helps to minimize cable clutter and tangling during use.
The soft ear pads and headband are replaceable, making these headphones comfortable for long studio sessions.
Additionally, the package comes with two pairs of cables (3m straight and coiled), two sets of ear pads with different sound characteristics (analytical and well-balanced), and a premium hard case for storage and transportation.
With a frequency response range of 5-40,000 Hz and a nominal sound pressure level of 102 dB SPL, these headphones offer a premium listening experience for professionals and audiophiles alike.
Pros
- Comfortable fit for long use
- Detachable cables for versatility
- Durable and high-quality materials
- Excellent imaging and soundstage
Cons
- Slightly heavy for some users
Our Remarks:
The comfortable fit and detachable cables of these headphones make them versatile and practical for extended use. However, some users may find them slightly heavy.
Drop + HIFIMAN HE4XX
The Drop + HIFIMAN HE 4 XX headphones are a game-changer in the world of planar magnetic drivers. Their unique technology has garnered them numerous accolades from prestigious publications such as Time, Forbes, CNET, and CES Editors’ Choice Award.
With a smooth and even sound profile and Hifiman’s signature bass slam, these headphones deliver an engaging audio experience.
These best audiophile headphones under $1000 are also incredibly versatile, making them accessible to a wide range of listeners. They don’t require a fancy amp to sound amazing, allowing you to enjoy them directly from your phone, laptop, or desktop computer.
However, if you do decide to pair them with an amp, they can take your audio experience to the next level. Plus, they feature HIFIMAN’s Focus-A hybrid ear pads, which are not only the best-sounding but also the most comfortable pads the company has to offer.
The HE4XX headphones are a revival of the original Hifiman style with structural improvements, including a spring steel headband that can bend without losing its shape, and breathable protein leather hand-stitching.
Pros
- Accurate and detailed sound quality
- Affordable for planar headphones
- Wide soundstage for immersive experience
- Detachable cable for versatility
Cons
- Bass response may be lacking
Our Remarks:
The accurate and detailed sound quality of these planar headphones is impressive, especially considering their affordable price point. However, some listeners may find the bass response lacking..
Philips Fidelio X3
The Philips Fidelio X3 is a high-quality pair of headphones that deliver a wide, natural soundstage and uncolored sound, making for a lifelike performance.
The 50 mm multi-layer polymer diaphragms are exquisitely tuned with dampening gel to deliver detailed highs, full midrange, and impactful bass without overpowering.
The headphones are Hi-Res Audio certified, ensuring that you hear the full impact of every note when wired to a high-resolution source.
The open-back design of the Philips Fidelio X3 provides an immersive and spacious sound by eliminating air pressure build-up behind the diaphragms. The Kvadrat speaker fabric used in the headphones is acoustically transparent, further enhancing the natural soundstage.
The best audiophile headphones under $1000 also feature responsibly sourced materials, such as the sumptuous black Muirhead Scottish leather covering the headband.
The balanced and unbalanced inputs make the Philips Fidelio X3 compatible with both headphone amps and everyday devices. The detachable 3 m oxygen-free cables are included for added convenience.
Pros
- Comfortable for extended use
- Wide soundstage for immersive experience
- Hi-Res Audio certified
- Premium build quality and materials
Cons
- Cable is not detachable
Our Remarks:
The comfortable fit and wide soundstage of these headphones make them great for immersive listening experiences. However, the non-detachable cable may be a downside for some users.
Grado SR325e
The Grado SR325e headphones are a top-of-the-line product in the audio industry. Handmade in Brooklyn, NY, they are a part of the new “e” series and offer a superior listening experience.
With their wired connectivity technology, they are ideal for music enthusiasts who prioritize high-quality sound over wireless convenience.
It is important to note that the manufacturer’s warranty for Grado SR325e headphones is only applicable in the US.
Additionally, it’s worth mentioning that 4OurEars is the only Grado Authorized Amazon Reseller, ensuring that customers receive authentic products and have access to reliable customer service.
The Grado SR325e headphones are also a fantastic investment for the persons looking for best audiophile headphones for gaming.
Pros
- Lively and dynamic sound quality
- High-quality materials and craftsmanship
- Wide soundstage for immersive experience
- Open-back design for natural sound
Cons
- Requires an amplifier for best performance
Our Remarks:
The Grado SR325e headphones offer a lively and dynamic sound with high-quality materials and craftsmanship. However, they may require an amplifier for optimal performance.
Audio-Technica ATH-R70x
The Audio-Technica ATH-R70x is a high-performance headphone that offers accurate and extended high-frequency response thanks to its high-efficiency magnets and pure alloy magnetic circuit design.
This technology effectively reduces distortion and ensures that the audio quality remains crystal-clear, making it an ideal choice for audiophiles and professionals.
In addition to its excellent sound quality, the ATH-R70x features a carbon composite resin construction that enhances its structural rigidity, providing a detailed transient response.
The acoustically transparent aluminum honeycomb-mesh housings provide a natural and spacious open-back sound that is perfect for critical listening and studio monitoring.
With breathable fabric earpads and improved wing support, the headphones provide long-wearing comfort, making them perfect for extended listening sessions.
Overall, the Audio-Technica ATH-R70x is a top-of-the-line headphone that delivers exceptional sound quality and comfort, making it an ideal choice for professionals and audiophiles who demand the very best.
With its feather-light weight and robust construction, the ATH-R70x is perfectly suited for professional use in a wide range of applications.
Pros
- Accurate and balanced sound quality
- Detachable cables for versatility
- Wide frequency range for accuracy
- Open-back design for natural sound
Cons
- Expensive compared to some alternatives
Our Remarks:
The wide frequency range and detachable cables of the headphones provide versatility and accurate sound quality. However, they may be expensive compared to some alternative options on the market.
Meze Audio 99 Classics
The Meze Audio 99 Classics headphones are a remarkable piece of audio equipment that feature high-efficiency magnets and a pure alloy magnetic circuit design. This results in reduced distortion and extended high-frequency response, allowing you to hear every detail of your music with utmost clarity.
Additionally, the best audiophile headphones under $1000 come with carbon composite resin, which enhances structural rigidity and provides detailed transient responses, further improving the overall audio quality.
Apart from their impressive sound quality, the Meze Audio 99 Classics headphones are also designed for comfort. The breathable fabric earpads and improved wing support allow you to wear the headphones for long periods without any discomfort.
Despite their robust construction, the headphones are feather-light and weigh only about 210 g without the cable, making them perfect for professional use.
The acoustically transparent, aluminum honeycomb-mesh housings provide a natural and spacious open-back sound that is ideal for audiophiles and professionals alike.
Overall, the Meze Audio 99 Classics headphones are an excellent investment for anyone looking for high-quality audio equipment that delivers both performance and comfort.
Pros
- Warm and detailed sound quality
- Stylish and premium build quality
- Comfortable for extended use
- Detachable cables for versatility
Cons
- Treble can be too bright
Our Remarks:
The Meze Audio 99 Classics offer a warm and detailed sound with a stylish and premium build quality. However, some users may find the treble too bright for their preference.
AKG K712 Pro
The AKG K712 Pro is an over-ear headphone that offers maximum wearing comfort for long work sessions. Its design is intended to provide a comfortable fit that is suitable for extended periods of use.
This feature is essential for individuals who require headphones for professional use, such as audio engineers or musicians.
In addition to its comfortable design, the AKG K712 Pro utilizes sophisticated open technology to create a spacious and airy sound without compromise. This technology is designed to provide a natural and realistic sound that is comparable to listening to music in a live setting.
The best audiophile headphone under $1000 also features an improved low-end performance by 3dB for more powerful sound imaging, allowing for a fuller and more immersive audio experience.
The AKG K712 Pro also boasts a revolutionary flat-wire voice coil that provides incredible impulse and treble response. This feature ensures that the headphone produces clear and detailed audio across the frequency spectrum.
Overall, the AKG K712 Pro is a high-end headphone that offers exceptional sound quality and comfort, making it an excellent choice for professional use.
Pros
- Accurate and detailed sound quality
- Comfortable and lightweight fit
- Open-back design for natural sound
- Wide frequency response range
Cons
- Not proper audio
Our Remarks:
The AKG K712 Pro headphones offer a comfortable and lightweight fit, along with an open-back design that provides a natural sound. However, it is unclear what is meant by “not proper audio.”
Beyerdynamic T5p 2nd Generation
The Beyerdynamic T5p 2nd Generation is a top-of-the-line pair of over-ear headphones that boasts a variety of impressive features. It is also one of the best beyerdynamic headphones for gaming.
Firstly, it offers exceptional sound quality with a frequency response of 5 Hz – 50 kHz, making it suitable for even the most discerning audiophile. The headphones also have a high impedance of 32 ohms, allowing them to be used with a wide range of audio equipment, from portable music players to high-end amplifiers.
The Tesla technology used in the drivers provides a precise and clear sound, and the closed-back design helps to isolate the listener from external noise.
In addition to its audio capabilities, the T5p 2nd Gen also has a sleek and luxurious design. The ear cups are made from high-quality materials, including brushed and polished stainless steel, and the headband is covered in soft and durable leather.
The headphones are comfortable to wear for extended periods, thanks to the memory foam ear pads that conform to the listener’s head shape. The T5p 2nd Gen also comes with a detachable cable, making it easy to switch between different audio sources or replace the cable if needed.
Pros
- Premium build and materials
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
- Comfortable for extended listening
- Wide frequency range for accuracy
Cons
- Not ideal for hot climates
Our Remarks:
The Shure SRH1540 headphones have a premium build and closed-back design for noise isolation. However, they may not be ideal for use in hot climates.
Shure SRH1540
The Shure SRH1540 headphones are an excellent choice for Best Audiophile Headphones Under $1000 who demand high-quality sound and comfort. The 40 mm neodymium drivers provide superior acoustic performance with extended highs and warm bass, resulting in a wide soundstage that immerses the listener in their music.
The closed-back headphones for gaming reduces background noise, allowing for an uninterrupted listening experience.
The ergonomic dual-frame padded headband is lightweight and fully adjustable, ensuring hours of comfortable listening. The construction of the headphones includes aircraft-grade aluminum alloy yoke and carbon fiber caps, making them durable and long-lasting.
The steel driver frame with a vented center pole piece enhances linearity and eliminates internal resonance, ensuring consistent performance at all listening levels. The user manual provides troubleshooting steps for any issues that may arise.
Overall, the Shure SRH1540 headphones offer a premium listening experience with excellent sound quality and comfort.
Pros
- Closed-back design for noise isolation
- Lightweight and comfortable fit
- Dual-exit cables for durability
- Premium build and materials
Cons
- Ear cups may be small
Our Remarks:
The Meze Audio 99 Classics headphones feature a closed-back design for noise isolation and a lightweight, comfortable fit. However, some users may find the ear cups to be small.
Conclusion
Investing in the Best Audiophile Headphones Under $1000 can be a game-changer for music lovers. The 12 headphones we have listed in this article offer excellent sound quality, comfort, and durability, all while being reasonably priced.
Whether you’re a music producer, audio engineer, or just someone who appreciates high-quality audio, these Best Audiophile Headphones Under $1000 are sure to exceed your expectations. With so many great options available, there’s never been a better time to upgrade your listening experience.
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.