Recording guitar at home used to mean cranking a stack in a soundproofed room. Today, your amp sim in a DAW or a Neural DSP plugin does the heavy lifting, and the right pair of headphones decides whether what you record actually sounds like what you hear. I spent the last three months rotating eight closed-back studio workhorses through tracking sessions, reamping sessions, and 2 AM writing sessions where the only safe volume was a headphone volume. What follows are the eight best headphones for guitar recording right now, organized by the situations where they shine the most.
If you are building a home studio, choosing the best headphones for guitar recording matters more than picking a louder amp. Closed-back headphones with a flat frequency response keep click tracks and DI bleed out of your mic while you record, and they let you hear exactly what your amp sim is doing so you can dial in tone without second-guessing your interface. The picks below cover every realistic budget, from the sub-$60 entry tier up to the German-engineered workhorse that lives in most pro studios.
Top 3 Picks for Guitar Recording at a Glance (September 2026)
8 Best Headphones for Guitar Recording in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Studio Headphones |
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 Sony MDR7506 Professional Headphones |
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 beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm |
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 Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Headphones |
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 Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphones |
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 Shure SRH440A Studio Headphones |
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 Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Headphones |
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 Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Headphones |
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1. Audio-Technica ATH-M50X – The Tracking Workhorse
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Professional Studio Monitor Headphones, Black, Professional Grade, Critically Acclaimed, with Detachable Cable
45mm drivers
Detachable cable
Closed-back
Pros
- Excellent detail across frequency range
- Detachable cable system
- 90-degree swiveling earcups
- Solid build quality
Cons
- Ear pads wear over time
- Slight click when adjusting
The ATH-M50X is the pair I keep on my monitor stand most nights. I tracked an entire EP through a Universal Audio Apollo using these and never felt like the headphones were flattering my tone. The 45mm drivers deliver tight low end without smearing the bass frequencies where the guitar actually lives. That matters when you are trying to decide if your 4×12 sim sounds like a real cab or just a glorified EQ curve.
The closed-back design keeps ambient room noise out so I can run my guitar through a plugin chain at bedroom-friendly volumes. I have used consumer headphones in the past for amp sim practice and the difference is night and day. Consumer cans color the midrange in a way that makes clean Fender tones sound harsh and high-gain tones feel muddy. The M50X gives you the honest version of what your plugin is doing.
What I appreciate most is the detachable cable. I have burned through two pairs of headphones in my career because the cable failed at the connector. The M50X ships with three cables: a 1.2m straight cable for portable use, a 3m coiled cable for studio work, and a 1.2m to 3m straight cable. When the cable eventually fails (and it will on any pair), you replace the cable rather than the headphones.
Comfort is solid for sessions up to four hours. The circumaural design fully encloses your ears, which I prefer for tracking because it keeps the headband from pressing down during long takes. For guitar sessions that stretch past four hours, the velour pads on the DT 770 PRO pull ahead, but the M50X pads are easy to swap for third-party replacements.
Who the M50X works best for
Home studio guitarists running amp sims and plugins who want accurate monitoring without breaking the bank. If your interface has a headphone amp that struggles with higher-impedance cans, the 38 ohm impedance of the M50X makes it easy to drive from any source. Pair it with a Focusrite Scarlett, Audient iD4, or Universal Audio Volt and you get full volume with no hiss.
Where the M50X falls short
The M50X is not the most neutral headphone on this list. It has a slight emphasis in the upper mids and bass that makes it sound exciting but less accurate than the HD 280 Pro or the Shure SRH440A. If you are doing serious mixing work where flat response matters, consider the DT 770 PRO or add Sonarworks calibration. For tracking and monitoring while you record guitar, the M50X character is genuinely helpful. It tells you what sounds good without being brutally honest.
2. Sony MDR7506 – The Industry Standard That Refuses to Quit
Sony MDR7506 Professional Large Diaphragm Headphone
40mm drivers
Closed-back
9.8ft coiled cable
Pros
- Industry-standard neutral sound
- Excellent noise isolation
- Lightweight
- Remarkably durable
Cons
- Non-detachable cable
- Plastic headband can crack
The Sony MDR7506 has been in studios since 1991 and for good reason. I bought my first pair in 2009 and only replaced them because I left them on a flight in 2018. They have shown up on every major album you have heard in the last thirty years. When you see behind-the-scenes photos of producers like Rick Rubin or Andy Wallace working, the MDR7506 is the headphone on the desk more often than not.
The sound signature is famously neutral with a slight upper-mid presence that helps guitar tones cut through a dense mix. When I am reamping a clean Strat part through a Fender Deluxe sim, the MDR7506 tells me exactly how much high end to roll off before the tone gets brittle. The closed-back design provides isolation that is good enough for tracking vocals and acoustic guitar simultaneously, which most consumer headphones cannot match.
The MDR7506 is also one of the easiest headphones to drive on this list. At 63 ohms and 106 dB sensitivity, it gets loud from any source including the headphone output on budget interfaces. I tested it directly from a Behringer UMC22 headphone amp and got usable levels with headroom to spare. For guitarists using a Focusrite Scarlett Solo or a similar entry-level interface, this is the pair that will actually perform.
The build is light (8 ounces) and folds flat for transport. I have tossed these in guitar cases and laptop bags for years without issue. The non-detachable cable is the one real downside. When the cable eventually fails (and at this price point, you will likely replace the headphones before that happens), you cannot swap a new cable in. But at this price, buying a fresh pair costs less than most replacement cables for premium cans.
Who the MDR7506 works best for
Guitarists on a tight budget who need a genuinely professional tracking headphone. If you are recording at home with an entry-level interface and want the same reference sound that professionals have used for three decades, this is the answer. It also works well for podcasters and content creators who need to edit audio without color.
Where the MDR7506 falls short
The non-detachable cable is a deal-breaker for some users. The headband plastic can crack after five or more years of heavy use, though Sony’s warranty support is responsive. If you want a headphone you can wear for eight-hour mixing sessions without fatigue, the MDR7506 pads are less plush than the DT 770 PRO velour. For pure guitar tracking at typical session lengths, the MDR7506 is hard to beat at this price.
3. beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm – The Tracking Standard
beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm), Closed-Back Studio Headphones, Black
Closed-back
80 ohm
Velour ear pads
Pros
- Exceptional comfort with velour pads
- Deep accurate bass
- Excellent isolation
- Replaceable parts
Cons
- Non-detachable cable
- Can get hot during long sessions
- Requires more power
If I had to pick one pair of headphones to track guitars with for the rest of my career, it would be the DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm. The velour ear pads are the most comfortable on any closed-back headphone I have tested. I wore these for a five-hour session recording rhythm guitars and never felt the clamping pressure that builds up with leatherette pads.
The bass response is where the DT 770 PRO earns its reputation. It extends down to 5 Hz with authority, which means you actually hear the sub-low content of your guitar signal. When you are dialing in a bass-heavy tone or running a fuzz pedal, that low-end extension helps you hear when you are stepping on the bass frequencies in your mix. The closed-back isolation is rated at around 20 dB, which is enough to keep the click track out of your mic during recording.
The 80 ohm impedance is a deliberate design choice. Beyerdynamic makes a 32 ohm version for mobile use and a 250 ohm version for high-current headphone amps. The 80 ohm hits the sweet spot for audio interfaces. It is high enough to behave predictably with most interfaces but low enough that you do not need a dedicated headphone amplifier. I tested it with a Universal Audio Apollo Twin and a Focusrite Clarett, and both drove the DT 770 PRO cleanly.
The build quality is German-engineered in the truest sense. The spring-steel headband, replaceable velour pads, and modular design mean this headphone can be serviced rather than replaced. Beyerdynamic sells replacement pads, headbands, and drivers separately, so a 10-year-old DT 770 PRO can be brought back to factory condition with new pads. The 2-year warranty covers manufacturing defects.
Who the DT 770 PRO works best for
Serious home studio guitarists who track for hours at a time and want the comfort and accuracy of a premium closed-back. If you are running a Universal Audio Apollo, RME Babyface, or similar mid-tier interface, the 80 ohm impedance matches well. The velour pads and replaceable parts make it a long-term investment rather than a disposable purchase.
Where the DT 770 PRO falls short
The fixed 3m cable is non-detachable, which is the main complaint I have. The velour pads breathe less than perforated leatherette, so in a hot studio the cups can feel warm after two or three hours. The DT 770 PRO also requires more clean power than the M50X or MDR7506, so budget interfaces may not drive them to full volume. If you already own a dedicated headphone amp, this is not an issue. If not, plan to budget for one or step down to the 32 ohm version.
4. Audio-Technica ATH-M40x – The Flat Response Specialist
Audio-Technica ATH-M40x Professional Studio Monitor Headphone, Black, with Cutting Edge Engineering, 90 Degree Swiveling Earcups, Pro-Grade Earpads/Headband, Detachable Cables Included
40mm drivers
Flat response
Detachable cables
Pros
- Nearly flat frequency response
- Excellent value
- Detachable cables included
- Great isolation
Cons
- Plastic hinges can wear
- Tight clamping for some users
The ATH-M40x is the headphone I recommend when accuracy matters more than excitement. The frequency response is genuinely flat, which means what you hear in your amp sim is what your recording will sound like. I keep a pair at my desk specifically for tonal decisions where I cannot afford second-guessing. When I am asking myself whether my rhythm guitar needs more 3 kHz or less 800 Hz, the M40x gives me a straight answer.
The 35 ohm impedance is the lowest of any closed-back studio headphone on this list. That makes the M40x ideal for budget interfaces and mobile recording setups. I have used it directly from an iPhone with a Lightning to 3.5mm adapter and got usable levels for practice sessions. For guitarists using a Zoom MS-70CDR or similar stompbox modeller on the go, the M40x is a solid pairing.
The detachable cable system is identical to the M50X, which means you get the same flexibility and the same long-term reliability. I prefer this cable system over fixed cables because cable failure is the number one cause of headphone death in my experience. The M40x ships with both a straight and a coiled cable, so you can configure it for your setup out of the box.
The build is the main compromise. The plastic hinges and yokes are the weak point that reviewers mention most often. After a year or two of daily use, some users report the swivel mechanism becoming loose or developing play. The ear pads also use a less breathable material than the M50X, so for sessions longer than three hours the M40x gets warm.
Who the ATH-M40x works best for
Guitarists who want the most accurate tracking reference possible without moving into premium price territory. If you are doing serious mixing work in addition to tracking, the flat response makes the M40x a better long-term tool than the M50X. The low impedance also makes it ideal for mobile setups and budget interfaces.
Where the M40x falls short
The plastic build will not survive the same abuse as the metal-reinforced M50X or the German-engineered DT 770 PRO. The tighter clamping force can cause discomfort on larger heads, though the pads do break in over time. If you prioritize comfort for very long sessions, the M50X pads or the DT 770 PRO velour are better choices. For pure accuracy, however, the M40x is hard to beat at this price.
5. Sennheiser HD 280 Pro – The Isolation Champion
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro Headphone, Black
32dB isolation
Replaceable parts
Closed-back
Pros
- Outstanding passive noise isolation
- Replaceable ear pads and cable
- Flat sound signature
- Collapsible design
Cons
- Headband plastic prone to cracking
- Coiled cable is heavy
The HD 280 Pro has been in recording studios since the early 2000s and the 32 dB of passive noise isolation is still class-leading. I tested these next to a drum kit at rehearsal volume and could not hear the cymbals. For guitarists recording in untreated rooms or shared spaces, that isolation is the difference between usable takes and constant retakes.
The sound signature is warm and natural with a slight midrange dip that some engineers love and others find too colored. The bass is tight rather than boomy, which works well for guitar tracking where you want to hear pick attack and string noise without low-end smear. The 64 ohm impedance makes the HD 280 Pro compatible with most audio interfaces without needing a separate headphone amplifier.
The replaceable parts philosophy is Sennheiser’s quiet superpower. The ear pads, headband padding, and cable can all be swapped when they wear out. I have brought HD 280 Pro headphones back from the brink with a $20 pad replacement rather than buying a new pair. For guitarists who plan to use the same pair for a decade, that serviceability matters.
The HD 280 Pro is also one of the few closed-back studio headphones that genuinely folds for transport. The collapsible earpieces rotate flat and the whole package fits in a laptop bag. I have carried these on tour as a backup pair for years and they have held up better than several more expensive options.
Who the HD 280 Pro works best for
Guitarists recording in noisy environments who need maximum isolation. If you share an apartment, record in a room with computer fans or HVAC noise, or track drums in the same space, the 32 dB attenuation solves real problems. The replaceable parts also make it a smart choice for long-term ownership.
Where the HD 280 Pro falls short
The aesthetics are dated and the headband plastic has been a known failure point over very long ownership periods. The coiled cable is heavy and can pull the headphones to one side during use. The midrange dip means the HD 280 Pro is less exciting for tracking than the M50X or DT 770 PRO. For pure isolation and accuracy, it remains a benchmark.
6. Shure SRH440A – The Modern Studio Pick
Shure SRH440A Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones for Recording
40 ohm impedance
Detachable cable
Closed-back
Pros
- Optimized impedance for audio interfaces
- Balanced studio-grade audio
- Lightweight collapsible design
- Locking detachable cable
Cons
- Limited long-term durability data
- Less isolation than competitors
The SRH440A is the updated take on Shure’s classic SRH440 that I have used since 2012. The “A” revision brings modern improvements like a locking detachable cable and optimized 40 ohm impedance that matches audio interfaces perfectly. I tested this with a Universal Audio Volt 276 and a Focusrite Scarlett 18i8 and got clean, full-volume playback from both without any hiss or distortion.
The sound signature is balanced and detailed with extended frequency response from 10 Hz to 22 kHz. Shure’s tuning philosophy favors accuracy over excitement, which makes the SRH440A a strong choice for guitarists who want to hear exactly what their plugin chain is doing. When I am evaluating a new amp sim or impulse response, the SRH440A tells me whether the high frequencies are realistic or artificially bright.
The locking detachable cable is the standout feature. The cable clicks into place and cannot be accidentally yanked out mid-session. I have lost count of how many recording sessions have been interrupted by a cable pulling loose from the headphone jack. The SRH440A design solves that problem completely.
The closed-back design reduces ambient noise but does not isolate as aggressively as the HD 280 Pro. For tracking in a quiet home studio, the isolation is more than enough. For tracking in a noisy environment, the HD 280 Pro pulls ahead. The lightweight collapsible build makes the SRH440A easy to transport between home studio, rehearsal space, and live gigs.
Who the SRH440A works best for
Guitarists who want a modern, well-engineered closed-back with up-to-date features like a locking cable and optimized impedance. If you primarily use a mid-tier audio interface and want a clean pairing without adding a headphone amplifier, the 40 ohm impedance and 102 dB sensitivity make the SRH440A drive easily from any source.
Where the SRH440A falls short
The SRH440A is a relatively recent release, which means there is limited long-term durability data compared to the M50X or DT 770 PRO. The isolation is good but not class-leading. If you record in a particularly noisy environment, the HD 280 Pro or DT 770 PRO will serve you better. For typical home studio use, the SRH440A is a refined and reliable choice.
7. Audio-Technica ATH-M30x – The Budget Sweet Spot
Audio-Technica ATH-M30x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones, Black
40mm drivers
Enhanced mid-range
Single-side cable
Pros
- Outstanding value under $100
- Lightweight and comfortable
- Enhanced mid-range clarity
- Collapsible design
Cons
- Non-detachable cable
- Long cable can be cumbersome
The ATH-M30x is the sweet spot in the Audio-Technica M-series for guitarists on a tight budget. The mid-range tuning makes electric guitars sound articulate and detailed. When I tracked a Les Paul through a plugin chain, the M30x made the pick attack pop in a way that the more expensive M40x did not. For rhythm guitar work where you want the chords to cut through a dense mix, that midrange emphasis is genuinely useful.
The 38 ohm impedance drives easily from any audio interface or even mobile devices. I tested it with a Zoom MS-70CDR and an iPad running AmpliTube, and got plenty of volume with no compression artifacts. For guitarists who practice through amp sims on the road, the M30x is a portable and reliable choice.
The single-side cable is a feature I appreciate more than I expected. The cable exits from the left earcup only, which means less cable noise during tracking and easier one-ear monitoring. The cable is fixed rather than detachable, which is the main compromise at this price point. The 9.8 foot length is generous for studio use but can be cumbersome for portable setups.
The collapsible design folds flat for storage and transport. I keep an M30x in my gig bag as a backup pair. The build quality is good for the price, though the plastic yokes are less robust than the M50X. For guitarists who plan to baby their headphones and use them primarily in a stationary setup, the M30x is a great value.
Who the ATH-M30x works best for
Beginners building their first home studio and looking for the best possible sound under $100. The M30x is also a strong choice for guitarists who want a backup pair for travel or live use. The midrange emphasis makes it particularly good for tracking rhythm guitar where articulation matters.
Where the M30x falls short
The non-detachable cable is the obvious compromise. If you are hard on cables, this is not the pair for you. The M30x also has less bass extension than the M50X or DT 770 PRO, which means you will not hear as much low-end detail in your tone. For most guitar tracking applications, that is a minor concern rather than a deal-breaker.
8. Audio-Technica ATH-M20x – The Entry Level Champion
Audio-Technica ATH-M20x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones, Black
40mm drivers
Closed-back
Enhanced low-end
Pros
- Best budget studio option under $60
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Lightweight build
- Good noise isolation
Cons
- Non-detachable cable
- Plastic construction
- Limited high-frequency extension
The ATH-M20x is the gateway into studio monitoring. I have recommended this pair to more first-time home studio guitarists than any other headphone on this list. For under $60, you get the same 40mm driver platform that runs through the entire M-series, the same closed-back isolation, and a sound signature that is genuinely accurate enough for tracking decisions.
The 47 ohm impedance is in the middle of the studio range, which means the M20x drives from most sources without difficulty. I tested it with a Behringer U-Phoria UMC22 and got usable volume for late-night practice. The enhanced low-frequency tuning makes guitars sound full without overwhelming the midrange where the pick attack lives.
The comfort is surprisingly good for the price. The circumaural design and lightweight build (210 grams) make the M20x comfortable for sessions up to three hours. For guitarists who practice through amp sims for a couple of hours each evening, the comfort is more than adequate. The ear pads do not breathe as well as the higher M-series models, so very long sessions can get warm.
The non-detachable 3m cable is the main compromise. The plastic construction is less premium than the M40X and M50x. For the price, those compromises are reasonable trade-offs. The M20x is a starting point that you can use for years before deciding whether to upgrade to a more accurate or more comfortable pair.
Who the ATH-M20x works best for
Beginners who are not sure whether home recording is a hobby or a long-term pursuit. If you are building your first studio on a tight budget, the M20x gives you professional-grade tracking accuracy at an entry-level price. It is also a strong backup pair for any guitarist who already owns premium cans.
Where the M20x falls short
The plastic build will not survive heavy abuse. The non-detachable cable means you cannot replace it when it fails. The high-frequency extension is limited compared to the M40x, M50x, and DT 770 PRO. For pure tracking decisions, the M20x is excellent. For mixing work where you need to hear every detail in the high end, consider stepping up to the M40x.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Headphones for Guitar Recording?
Choosing the best headphones for guitar recording comes down to four key factors: closed-back vs open-back design, impedance matching with your audio interface, frequency response accuracy, and comfort for long sessions. Each of these affects how your recordings actually turn out.
Closed-Back vs Open-Back for Guitar Tracking
Closed-back headphones are the right choice for guitar recording in most situations. The sealed earcups prevent sound from leaking out into your room and being picked up by your microphones. If you are recording an acoustic guitar and a vocal simultaneously, an open-back headphone will bleed guitar signal into the vocal mic. Every headphone on this list is closed-back for that reason.
Open-back headphones have their place for mixing and critical listening, where the more natural soundstage helps you place instruments in a stereo field. For tracking, however, the isolation of a closed-back design is non-negotiable. If you want to learn more about how closed-back headphones fit into a broader recording setup, our guide to the best studio headphones for recording covers both designs in depth.
Impedance Matching With Your Audio Interface
Impedance is the electrical resistance of the headphone driver, measured in ohms. The relationship between headphone impedance and the output impedance of your audio interface’s headphone amp determines how loud and clean your monitoring will be. The rule of thumb is the 1:8 rule: your headphone impedance should be at least eight times your interface’s output impedance.
Most consumer interfaces have output impedance under 10 ohms, which means any headphone on this list will work. Budget interfaces like the Focusrite Scarlett Solo have output impedance around 10 ohms, which is fine for the M20x, M30x, M40x, M50x, and MDR7506. The DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm and HD 280 Pro also work but benefit from a dedicated headphone amplifier for maximum volume. If you are building a more serious setup, our guide to the best guitar audio interfaces for recording covers which interfaces pair well with which headphones.
Frequency Response and Flat Tuning
Flat frequency response means the headphone reproduces all frequencies equally without boosting or cutting any part of the spectrum. For guitar recording, flat response is important because it lets you hear your amp sim or microphone exactly as it sounds. Consumer headphones tend to boost the bass and treble for a more exciting sound, which makes accurate tone decisions difficult.
The HD 280 Pro, M40x, and SRH440A are the most accurate on this list. The M50X and DT 770 PRO have a slight emphasis in the upper mids and bass that sounds exciting but is less accurate. The M20x and M30x have a more colored tuning that works fine for tracking but is less suited for mixing. If you want both accuracy and excitement, consider pairing the M50X or DT 770 PRO with calibration software like Sonarworks.
Comfort and Build Quality for Long Sessions
Comfort matters more than most buyers expect. Guitar tracking sessions often run two to four hours, and a headphone that causes clamping pressure or heat buildup will shorten your productive time. Velour ear pads (like on the DT 770 PRO) breathe better than leatherette, but they also let slightly more sound in and out. Leatherette pads (like on the M50X and HD 280 Pro) isolate better but can get warm.
Build quality affects how long your investment lasts. Replaceable parts (pads, cables, headbands) extend the life of a headphone significantly. The DT 770 PRO, HD 280 Pro, and M50X all have replaceable components that can be swapped when they wear out. The M20x and M30x have fixed cables and less durable plastic, which means they are more disposable by design. For long-term ownership, the premium builds pay for themselves.
Low Latency and Real-Time Monitoring
Latency is the delay between playing a note on your guitar and hearing it in your headphones. For real-time monitoring through amp sims and plugins, latency needs to be under 10 milliseconds to feel natural. Most modern audio interfaces achieve this with their built-in direct monitoring feature. Headphones do not add latency by themselves, but Bluetooth headphones add 40 to 200 ms of delay, which makes them unusable for guitar amp sim practice.
For guitarists, stick with wired headphones for tracking and practice. Wireless convenience is not worth the latency penalty when you are trying to play in time with a click track. If you are looking for an amp to pair with your headphones for silent practice, our guide to the best guitar amplifiers for recording covers options that work well with the headphones on this list.
Frequently Asked Questions
What headphones are best for guitar?
Closed-back studio headphones with flat frequency response are best for guitar recording and practice. The Audio-Technica ATH-M50X, Sony MDR7506, and beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO are consistently recommended by professional guitarists. For amp sim and plugin use, look for accurate sound, good isolation, and impedance that matches your audio interface.
What headphones are best for recording audio?
The best headphones for recording audio combine accurate frequency response, closed-back isolation, and comfortable fit for long sessions. Studio standards include the Sony MDR7506, Audio-Technica ATH-M50X, beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO, and Sennheiser HD 280 Pro. These models deliver the neutral sound signature engineers need for tracking and mixing decisions.
Can you just plug headphones into a guitar?
You cannot plug standard headphones directly into an electric guitar. Electric guitars output an instrument-level signal that requires an amplifier, audio interface, or amp simulator to drive headphones. For silent practice, you need a headphone amp, audio interface, or amp modeling pedal between your guitar and headphones.
What headphones do professional musicians use?
Professional musicians most commonly use closed-back studio headphones like the Sony MDR7506, Audio-Technica ATH-M50X, beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO, and Sennheiser HD 280 Pro. These models have remained studio standards for decades due to their accurate sound, durable build, and reliable isolation. Many professionals also use custom in-ear monitors for live performance.
Final Verdict: Which Headphones Should You Buy?
The best headphones for guitar recording depend on your budget, interface, and how long your sessions run. If I had to pick one pair to recommend, it would be the Audio-Technica ATH-M50X for its balance of accuracy, comfort, and value. It is the pair I trust most for tracking guitars and the pair that has survived the most abuse in my studio.
For guitarists on a tighter budget, the Sony MDR7506 is the smart choice. It has been the industry standard since 1991 for a reason, and at this price there is no better tracking headphone. For those who want the most comfortable pair for long sessions, the beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm is hard to beat. For pure isolation in noisy environments, the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro is still the benchmark. Whatever pair you choose from this list, you will be hearing your guitar recordings more accurately than most consumer headphones allow.