The 7 Best Budget Audiophile Headphones

It’s no secret that audiophile headphones aren’t cheap. Indeed, some of the most popular and best-selling models may cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. But what if we told you that you don’t have to spend a bunch on headphones to get good sound? Believe it or not, there are many excellent low-cost choices available that provide comparable audio performance to more costly versions.

So how do you know which ones to buy? That’s where we come in! In this article, we’ll show you everything you need to know about finding the best budget audiophile headphones for your needs.

We’ll go through everything from design and construction to sound quality and features, and we’ll even propose a few models. So, whether you’re a novice or a seasoned audiophile, keep reading for all the information you need to make the best buy!

1. The best budget audiophile headphones
2. What are audiophile headphones and what do they offer that other models don’t?
3. Why are they so expensive, and is it worth the investment?
4. How can you find the best budget-friendly audiophile headphones for your needs?
5. What are some of the most popular models on the market right now, and what do they have to offer?
6. How do you take care of your audiophile headphones, and how long do they last typically?
7. Audiophile headphones FAQ

The best budget audiophile headphones

First and foremost, I believe it is necessary to establish certain ground rules for what we define “budget.” We consider anything under $300 new to be inexpensive audiophile headphones, but you can also use this list to search eBay or your local Facebook marketplace for even better prices!

Grado SR325x

Grado SR325x headphones are an excellent choice for audiophiles on a tight budget. They have a classic look and sound fantastic. We’ll look at their features, performance, and value in this review to help you determine if they’re the best set of headphones for you.

Features 

The Grado SR325x headphones have a retro design with an open-back construction. They’re made of wood and metal, which gives them a premium feel. The ear cups are padded with memory foam, and the headband is adjustable for a comfortable fit. The headphones come with a detachable 3.5mm cable.

Performance 

For the price, the SR325x headphones provide excellent sound quality. They feature distinct highs as well as well-balanced mids and lows. The open-back design allows for enough air circulation, which keeps the sound from getting muddy. The soundstage is good, and the headphones give enough noise isolation.

Value 

The Grado SR325x headphones are an excellent choice for low-cost on-ear headphones. They have a high build quality and sound fantastic. They’re pleasant to use for extended periods of listening, and the cord is removable for simple storage and transit. The Grado SR325x should be at the top of your list if you’re searching for an excellent pair of affordable audiophile headphones.

The Grado SR325x headphones are an excellent choice for audiophiles on a tight budget. They feature a vintage design, are well-made, and offer excellent sound quality. They’re also comfy to wear for extended periods of listening. The Grado SR325x should be at the top of your list if you’re searching for an excellent pair of affordable audiophile headphones.

Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X 

Beyerdynamic, a German firm, has long been a favourite among serious listeners in the realm of audiophile headphones. The DT 990 PRO, the company’s flagship model, is widely regarded as one of the greatest deals in high-end headphones. However, at $400, the DT 990 PRO aren’t exactly “cheap” headphones. This is where the DT 900 PRO X comes into play. These headphones are intended to give Beyerdynamic’s famed high-fidelity headphones at a more reasonable $200 price range. So, will they be successful? Continue reading to discover out.

Design and Comfort

The DT 900 PRO X are closed-back over-ear headphones made completely of metal and plastic. The headband and earcups are also adjustable, allowing you to find the ideal fit for your head size. And, because to the plush cushioning on the headband and earcups, these headphones are remarkably pleasant to wear for long periods of listening with no sound leaking.

Read about the best headphones under $300

Sound Quality

The DT 900 PRO X do not disappoint in terms of sound quality. The sound characteristic of these headphones is quite neutral and well-balanced, which will appeal to both audiophiles and casual listeners. The bass is tight and forceful without being overpowering, while the mids and highs are clear and detailed without being harsh or tiring. Simply, these are among the best cheap audiophile headphones available today.

Look no farther than the Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X for a set of cheap audiophile headphones that combine great sound quality, comfort, and value. These German-made headphones tick every box and then some, making them an easy recommendation for anybody looking for a new pair of headphones.

 Philips SHP9500

Many consumers place a high value on the audio quality of their over-ear headphones. After all, what’s the point of listening to music if it’s not enjoyable? However, high-quality headphones are frequently pricey. The Philips SHP9500, on the other hand, are a low-cost choice that doesn’t lose sound quality. In this review, we’ll examine closely at the SHP9500’s features and evaluate how they work.

Design and Comfort

The Philips SHP9500 has a surprisingly light and comfy design. The ear cups are well-padded and sit comfortably on the ears, and the headband is adjustable for a custom fit. They’re also comfortable to wear for extended periods of time without becoming fatigued.

The headphones are also built to last; the headband is constructed of steel, while the ear cups are made of plastic. They aren’t invincible, but they should be able to survive normal wear and tear.

Sound Quality

The Philips SHP9500 has excellent audio quality for the price. The sound is clean and well-balanced, with a natural tone. These headphones handle music and speech effectively, making them an excellent choice for both music and movie listeners.

The noise isolation is also fairly good; while it will not entirely block out all external noise, it will greatly lessen it. This is due to the well-padded ear cups that form a seal around the ears.

Overall, the Philips SHP9500 are a fantastic pair of low-cost audiophile headphones. They feature a comfy design that is simple to wear for extended periods of time, and they provide excellent sound quality for the price.

Check out some other open-back headphones here!

MOONDROP Aria

In-ear monitors, or IEMs, have grown in popularity in recent years as more individuals seek methods to improve their listening experience. IEMs provide several advantages over regular headphones, such as passive noise isolation and a more immersive listening experience. IEMs, on the other hand, may be rather expensive, with some models costing hundreds or even thousands of dollars. The MOONDROP Aria is a low-cost solution that provides detailed sound without breaking the bank.

Design and Comfort

The MOONDROP Aria is available in black or white and features a simple yet attractive design. IEMs are comprised of lightweight plastic that is comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The earbuds include a soft silicone tip that fits snugly and comfortably. The tips are very simple to replace if you want a different size or wish to experiment with a different type of tip.

Sound Quality

The MOONDROP Aria has excellent sound quality for an IEM in this price range. The highs are clean and clear, and the bass response is strong but not muddy. The soundstage is remarkably large for an IEM, making the listening experience more immersive.

The MOONDROP Aria is an excellent choice for anybody seeking for a low-cost set of IEMs with excellent sound quality. The earbuds are pleasant to use and feature a broad soundstage, making them ideal for listening to music, watching movies, or gaming. The MOONDROP Aria should be at the top of your list if you want to improve your listening experience without breaking the budget.

Grado SR80x

For music lovers on a budget, these Grado headphones are the best headphones you can buy. These wired on-ear headphones offer stellar sound quality and comfortable wear at an unbeatable price. If you’re looking for great-sounding, affordable headphones to take your music listening to the next level, the Grado SR80x are the way to go.

Design

The Grado SR80x have a simple but elegant design. The earcups and headband are made of lightweight plastic, and the earpads are soft and comfortable. The headband is adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit. The headphones are available in black or white.

Sound quality

The Grado SR80x sound phenomenal for its price point. The bass is Punchy but not overwhelming, and the mids and highs are clear and well-defined. These headphones have a wide soundstage, so you’ll feel like you’re in the middle of the action. Whether you’re listening to your favourite songs or watching a movie, the Grado SR80x will provide an immersive audiophile quality experience.

Comfort

The Grado SR80x are very comfortable to wear, even for long periods of time. The earcups are soft and breathable, and the headband is adjustable so you can find the perfect fit. The lightweight design means you won’t get tired of wearing these headphones even if you wear them all day.

The Grado SR80x are the best budget audiophile headphones you can buy. They offer stellar sound quality, comfortable wear, and a great price. If you’re looking for great-sounding headphones to take your music listening to the next level, the Grado SR80x are the way to go.

Shure Aonic 3

If you’re in the market for a pair of in-ear monitors (IEMs) and don’t want to spend a fortune, the Shure Aonic 3 is a great option to consider. These IEMs offer excellent sound quality and are very comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Shure Aonic 3 IEMs and see if they’re worth your hard-earned money.

Design and Comfort

The first thing you’ll notice about the Shure Aonic 3 is their stylish black and silver color scheme. The housings are made from lightweight aluminum and have an ergonomic design that fits snugly in your ear without causing any discomfort. The stainless steel nozzles have a nice lip that helps keep the ear tips securely in place. Included with the IEMs are a set of Comply foam ear tips, which provide a great seal and are very comfortable to wear. If you prefer silicone ear tips, there are also three sizes of those included as well.

Sound Quality

The Shure Aonic 3 IEMs sound absolutely fantastic for their price point. The low end is tight and punchy, while the mids and highs are clear and detailed without sounding harsh or fatiguing. These IEMs do an especially good job with acoustic and vocal-centric music, but they sound great across all genres.

All things considered, the Shure Aonic 3 IEMs are an excellent option for budget-conscious audiophiles who don’t want to sacrifice sound quality or comfort. These IEMs look great, sound even better, and are very comfortable to wear for extended listening sessions. If you’re looking for a great-sounding pair of IEMs that won’t break the bank, the Shure Aonic 3 should definitely be at the top of your list.

AirPods Pro

The budget audiophile community is always on the lookout for new ways to improve their audio quality without breaking the bank. When Apple released their Airpods Pro earbuds with active noise cancellation, many budget audiophiles were intrigued. Could these earbuds really provide quality sound at a lower price point? We put them to the test to find out.

Design and Comfort

The first thing you’ll notice about the Airpods Pro is its design. They are noticeably sleeker and more compact than the original Airpods, and they come with three different-sized ear tips so you can find the perfect fit. This is a huge plus for comfort, as many people found the original Airpods to be uncomfortable after extended wear 

The Airpods Pro also come with an upgraded charging case that supports wireless charging. The case itself is very sturdy and feels high-quality, even if it is a little on the bulky side. Overall, we were very impressed with the build quality and design of the Airpods Pro.

Audio Quality

Of course, the most important question for any pair of headphones is how do they sound? We’re happy to report that the Airpods Pro sound great! We were actually surprised at how good they sounded considering their price point. The bass is punchy without being overwhelming, and the highs are clear and detailed without sounding harsh. The mids are where these earbuds shine, providing clear and natural-sounding vocals 

We did find that the soundstage was a little lacking when compared to more expensive headphones, but overall we were very pleased with the sound quality of the Airpods Pro. If you’re looking for a great-sounding pair of earbuds on a budget, these are definitely worth checking out.

The bottom line is that if you’re looking for a great-sounding pair of earbuds on a budget, the Airpods Pro are definitely worth checking out. They boast excellent build quality, comfort, and sound quality, all at a very reasonable price point. If you’re an iOS user, they also integrate seamlessly with your existing ecosystem. If you’re not an iOS user… well, they’re still pretty good earbuds!

Don’t forget to read the best headphones for under $300!

What are audiophile headphones and what do they offer that other models don’t?

If you’re passionate about music, then you’ve probably heard the term “audiophile” thrown around a lot. But what does it actually mean? An audiophile is someone who cares deeply about pure sound quality and reproducing audio as accurately as possible. Audiophile headphones are designed with this in mind, and they offer a number of advantages over other models on the market 

First and foremost, audiophile headphones have much better sound quality than your average pair. They’re able to reproduce audio more accurately thanks to higher-quality drivers, and they often have a wider frequency response range too. This means that you’ll be able to hear all the details in your music that you might’ve missed before 

In addition, audiophile headphones tend to be very comfortable to wear for long periods of time. This is important if you want to use them for things like listening to music at work or during a long flight. They also tend to have a more stylish design than other models, which is another plus if you’re looking for a new pair of headphones to show off 

Why are they so expensive, and is it worth the investment?

Ever wonder why audiophile headphones are so expensive? In this post, we’ll break down the different factors that contribute to the high price tag on these headphones and whether or not they’re worth the investment 

When it comes to audio quality, there’s a big difference between regular headphones and audiophile headphones. Audiophile headphones are designed to provide the user with the best possible sound quality which can include things like imaging and instrument separation, whereas regular headphones are designed for more general use. There are a few different factors that contribute to the high cost of audiophile headphones 

First, audiophile headphones are almost always made with better materials than regular headphones. For example, they might use materials like aluminium or steel instead of plastic in order to ensure durability and improve sound quality. Second, audiophile headphones often have larger drivers than regular headphones. Drivers are the part of the headphone that actually produces sound, so a bigger driver means better sound quality. Finally, audiophile headphones typically come with a higher price tag because they’re made by companies that specialize in audio equipment 

So, are these headphone worth the investment? It depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re simply looking for a pair of headphones to use for everyday listening, then probably not. However, if you’re an audio enthusiast or you’re looking for a pair of headphones to use for professional purposes, then investing in a good pair of audiophile headphones can definitely be worth it 

Audiophile headphones are expensive, but there’s a reason for that. They’re made with better materials, have bigger drivers, and come from companies that specialize in audio equipment. Whether or not they’re worth the investment depends on your needs and how much you value sound quality.

If you’re looking for something more specific maybe try some DJ headphones!

How can you find the best budget-friendly audiophile headphones for your needs?

When it comes to headphones, there is a lot of speculation about what makes a pair “good.” Some people say that you need to spend hundreds of dollars to get a decent pair, while others claim that even the cheapest options can sound great if you know what to look for. So, which is it?

The truth is, both sides are partially right. You can find amazing sounding headphones at any price point, but there are definitely some things that you should keep in mind when shopping on a budget. Here are our top tips for finding the best budget audiophile headphones:

Look for open-back or semi-open designs.

One of the biggest factors that affects sound quality is the type of headphone design. Open-back headphones allow air to flow freely through the back of the ear cups, which creates a more natural and open sound. Semi-open headphones have a slightly closed design, but still allow some air to flow through for a less artificial sound.

Both of these designs are great for audiophiles because they provide a more natural and accurate sound than closed-back headphones. Closed-back headphones block out all external noise, but they can also trap in unwanted sounds like your own breathing and body movements. This can create an unnatural and distorted sound that is not ideal for listening to music.

Pay attention to frequency response.

The frequency response is the range of frequencies that a pair of headphones can reproduce. Human hearing is typically between 20Hz and 20kHz, so you will want to look for headphones with a frequency response that falls within this range.

However, it is important to note that the human ear is not equally sensitive to all frequencies. We are most sensitive to frequencies in the middle of the range, around 3-4kHz. This is why many budget headphones tend to boost the bass and treble frequencies, because they sound “louder” and more exciting than mid-range frequencies.

While this can make your music sound good at first, it ultimately creates an inaccurate and unnatural sound. So, when you’re looking at frequency response, pay attention to how flat or accurate the response is. A flatter response indicates a more accurate sound, while a boosted response means that the sound will be artificially enhanced.

Look for headphones with a low impedance.

The impedance is the measure of how much resistance the headphones have to an electrical signal. The lower the impedance, the easier it is for the headphones to convert an electrical signal into sound. This means that low-impedance headphones will generally sound better than high-impedance headphones, especially when used with portable devices like phones and MP3 players.

Most budget audiophile headphones have an impedance of 32 ohms or less, which is ideal for use with portable devices. However, some higher-end models may have an impedance of up to 600 ohms. These models will require an amplifier to reach their full potential, so keep that in mind if you’re looking for the best sound quality possible.

Consider the type of driver.

The driver is the part of the headphone that actually produces sound. The two most common types of drivers are dynamic and planar magnetic. Dynamic drivers are the most common type of driver, and they use a moving coil to produce sound. Planar magnetic drivers are less common, but they offer better sound quality thanks to their larger surface area and thinner diaphragm.

If you’re looking for the best budget audiophile headphones, we recommend opting for a pair with dynamic drivers. However, if you’re willing to spend a bit more, planar magnetic headphones are definitely worth the investment.

Make sure the headphones are comfortable.

Comfort is important for any pair of headphones, but it’s especially important for audiophile headphones. This is because you will likely be wearing them for long periods of time, so you need to make sure they’re comfortable enough to wear for extended periods.

Look for headphones with cushioned ear cups and adjustable headbands. These features will help ensure that your headphones are comfortable to wear, even if you have to wear them for hours at a time.

Pay attention to the warranty.

When you’re spending money on a pair of headphones, you want to make sure they’re going to last. That’s why it’s important to pay attention to the warranty when you’re shopping for headphones. Most budget audiophile headphones come with a one-year warranty, but some higher-end models may offer extended warranties of up to five years.

If you can find a pair of headphones with a long warranty, that’s always a good sign. It shows that the manufacturer is confident in their product and is willing to stand behind it.

Check the reviews.

Finally, before you make your purchase, be sure to read some reviews. This is the best way to get an unbiased opinion on a pair of headphones before you buy them. Look for reviews from people with similar taste in music as you, and pay attention to any common complaints.

Keep these tips in mind and you’re sure to find a great pair of budget audiophile headphones that will suit your needs. With so many great options available, there’s no reason to spend more than you have to on a good pair of headphones.

What are some of the most popular models on the market right now, and what do they have to offer?

When it comes to audiophile headphones, there are a number of different models on the market to choose from. Some of the most popular models right now include the Sennheiser HD 800s, the AKG K701s, and the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PROs

The Sennheiser HD 800s are a premium model with exceptional sound quality. They’re composed of high-quality materials, have a huge driver size, and cost a lot of money. The AKG K701s are a more economical choice with excellent sound quality. They’re built of high-quality materials, feature a huge driver size, and are reasonably priced. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PROs are a more economical choice with excellent sound quality. They’re built of high-quality materials, feature a huge driver size, and are reasonably priced.

So, which choice is best for you? That is dependent on your requirements and budget. The Sennheiser HD 800s are a wonderful choice if you’re searching for a high-end model with superb sound quality. The AKG K701s are a solid pick if you’re searching for an inexpensive solution with exceptional sound quality. And, at the best possible price, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PROs are hard to beat.

No matter what your needs are, there’s a budget-friendly audiophile headphone out there that’s perfect for you. With a little bit of research, you can find the ideal model to suit your needs and budget. Don’t hesitate to reach out to a specialist if you have any questions – they’ll be more than happy to help you find the perfect pair of headphones for your needs.

How do you take care of your audiophile headphones, and how long do they last typically?

Audiophile headphones are a big investment, so it’s important to take care of them properly. Here are a few tips for keeping your headphones in good condition:

– Keep your headphones in a cool, dry place when not in use.

– Don’t expose your headphones to extreme temperatures or humidity.

– Be gentle when handling your headphones. Don’t twist the cord or bend the housing.

– Avoid exposing your headphones to dust, dirt, and other debris.

How long do audiophile headphones last typically? That depends on a number of factors, including how well they’re taken care of and how often they’re used. With proper care, most audiophile headphones will last for several years.

If you take good care of your audiophile headphones, they should last for several years. Be sure to keep them in a cool, dry place when not in use, and avoid exposure to extreme temperatures or humidity. Also, be gentle when handling your headphones – don’t twist the cord or bend the housing. By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your headphones will last for years to come.

Audiophile headphone FAQ

What is an audiophile?

An audiophile is someone who enjoys high-quality sound reproduction. They typically have a strong interest in music and invest in equipment that will give them the best listening experience possible.

What are audiophile headphones?

Audiophile headphones are headphones that are designed for high-quality sound reproduction. They offer excellent sound quality, often at a higher price point than typical consumer headphones.

What makes audiophile headphones different from other headphones?

Audiophile headphones are often made with better materials and have a larger driver size than typical consumer headphones. This allows them to produce a higher-quality sound. They also typically come with a higher price tag.

Are there any benefits to using audiophile headphones?

Yes, there are several benefits to using audiophile headphones. Audiophile headphones offer superior sound quality, often at a higher price point than other types of headphones. They’re also typically made with better materials, which can lead to a longer lifespan.