Best Audiophile Headphones For Gaming: Complete Buy Guide

Audiophile headphones are designed for music enthusiasts who value sound quality above all else. These audiophile headphones for gaming are built with superior components and technology, which allows them to reproduce music with exceptional clarity, accuracy, and detail.

Audiophile headphones are typically designed with large drivers, which are the components that convert electrical signals into sound waves. These drivers are usually made from high-quality materials, such as neodymium magnets and diaphragms made from materials like beryllium, titanium, or mylar. They are also usually much larger than drivers found in typical consumer headphones.

Another key component of audiophile headphones is the frequency response; this refers to the range of frequencies that the headphones can reproduce accurately. Audiophile headphones typically have a wider frequency response than other headphones, which allows them to reproduce more detail in the music.

Importance of choosing the right audiophile headphones for gaming

Choosing the right headphones for gaming is important for several reasons:

Sound quality: The quality of the sound can have a significant impact on the gaming experience. Gaming headphones are designed to enhance the audio quality of games. Choosing the right headphones can help you hear every sound effect, dialogue, and piece of music in a game as intended to be heard.

Comfort: Gaming sessions can often be lengthy, so it’s important to choose comfortable headphones for long periods. Uncomfortable headphones can cause discomfort, pain, or even headaches, ruining your gaming experience.

Immersion: Good gaming headphones have a wide soundstage that can create a more immersive experience; this can help you to locate sound sources, hear enemies approaching, and get a better sense of the game’s environment.

Communication: Communication with other players is crucial in playing online games. Gaming headphones often have a built-in microphone and noise-canceling technology, allowing you to communicate clearly with other players without distractions.

Durability: Gaming headphones are designed to withstand the rigors of gaming, including accidental drops, being packed in bags, and being used frequently. Choosing a durable pair of headphones can ensure they last a long time and provide a good value for your investment.

Types of audiophile headphones for gaming

Open back headphones

Open-back headphones are a type of headphones that have open ear cups, allowing air and sound to flow in and out. This design allows for a more natural and spacious sound, as the sound is not confined within the ear cups. The open design also reduces sound pressure, reducing listener fatigue and providing a more comfortable listening experience.

One of the main advantages of open-back headphones is their wide soundstage, which allows for better positional audio; this makes them a popular choice for gaming, as they can help gamers locate sound sources and immerse themselves in the game environment. They can also be a good choice for listening to music, providing a more realistic and natural sound.

However, open-back headphones do have some disadvantages. The open design means that they do not provide much isolation from external noise and can leak sound, which may disturb others around you. They are also not a good choice for noisy environments, as they do not block out external noise very well.

Audiophile headphones

Closed back headphones

Closed-back headphones are a type of headphones that have sealed ear cups, which block out external noise and provide better sound isolation. This design also helps prevent sound leakage, which can be useful when you don’t want to disturb others around you.

One of the main advantages of closed-back headphones is their noise isolation, which can be beneficial in noisy environments or situations where you want to focus on your audio without being disturbed by external noise. They are also a good choice for recording audio, as they prevent sound leakage from the headphones into the microphone.

Closed-back headphones can also provide a more bass-heavy sound, as the closed design allows for better bass response. This can benefit music genres that rely heavily on bass, such as hip-hop and electronic dance.

However, closed-back headphones do have some disadvantages. The closed design can create a more compressed soundstage, which may not be ideal for positional audio or immersive gaming. They can also cause listener fatigue over long listening sessions, as the sealed design can increase sound pressure.

In-ear monitors

In-ear monitors (IEMs) are earphones that fit snugly inside the ear canal, providing excellent noise isolation and a more personalized listening experience. IEMs are often used by musicians, sound engineers, and audiophiles, but they can also be a great option for gaming.

One of the main advantages of IEMs is their noise isolation. Because they fit snugly inside the ear canal, they can block out external noise and provide a more immersive listening experience; This can be beneficial for gaming in noisy environments, as it allows you to focus on the game without being disturbed by external noise.

IEMs are also very portable and easy to carry around, making them a great option for gamers on the go or wanting to travel light. They are also discreet, making them a good choice for gaming in public spaces where you may not want to attract attention.

However, IEMs do have some disadvantages. Because they fit snugly inside the ear canal, they can cause listener fatigue over long listening sessions. They can also be uncomfortable for some people, especially if they have sensitive ears or are not used to wearing earbuds.

Factors to Consider When Choosing Audiophile Headphones for gaming

Sound quality

Sound quality refers to an audio system’s overall performance and characteristics of sound reproduction, including headphones. Sound quality is determined by various factors such as frequency response, distortion, dynamic range, and sensitivity.

Frequency response refers to the range of frequencies the headphones can reproduce accurately, measured in Hertz (Hz). Headphones with a wider frequency response can reproduce a wider range of frequencies, producing more accurate and natural sound.

Distortion is the alteration of the sound signal caused by the audio system, and it is measured in percentage (%). Lower distortion values indicate better sound quality.

Dynamic range is the range between the loudest and softest sounds the headphones can reproduce without distortion or noise. Headphones with a wider dynamic range can reproduce more detail in the music and provide a more realistic listening experience.

Sensitivity refers to how efficiently the headphones convert electrical signals into sound. It is measured in decibels per milliwatt (dB/mW). Headphones with higher sensitivity require less power to produce the same volume, making them suitable for portable devices with limited power output.

Comfort

Comfort is an essential factor to consider when choosing a pair of headphones, as it directly affects the listening experience. Comfortable headphones are essential, especially for long listening sessions, as uncomfortable headphones can cause listener fatigue and discomfort.

The comfort of headphones is determined by various factors, such as the size and shape of the ear cups, the material used for the ear cups and headbands, and the weight of the headphones. Over-ear headphones are generally more comfortable than on-ear headphones, as they distribute the weight of the headphones over a larger area, reducing pressure on the ears.

The material used for the ear cups and headband is also crucial in determining the comfort of headphones. Soft and breathable materials such as memory foam and leatherette can provide a comfortable and snug fit while preventing heat buildup and sweat.

The weight of the headphones is another factor to consider when looking for comfortable headphones. Heavy headphones can cause discomfort, especially during long listening sessions, while lightweight headphones can be worn comfortably for extended periods.

Durability

Durability refers to the ability of headphones to withstand wear and tear over time. It is an essential factor to consider when choosing a pair of headphones. Durable headphones can last longer and provide better value for money than fragile headphones.

The durability of headphones is determined by various factors, such as the build quality, materials used, and design. Headphones made with high-quality materials such as metal, durable plastics, and reinforced cables are generally more durable than those made with cheap materials.

The design of headphones also plays a significant role in their durability. Headphones with a robust and sturdy design, reinforced hinges, and detachable cables are less likely to break or malfunction than those with a flimsy design.

The warranty period offered by the manufacturer is also an essential factor to consider when assessing the durability of headphones. A more extended warranty period can indicate that the manufacturer is confident in the durability and quality of their headphones and is willing to stand behind their product.

Noise isolation

Noise isolation refers to the ability of headphones to block out external noise and provide a more immersive listening experience. Headphones with good noise isolation can reduce the amount of ambient noise that enters the ear cups, allowing the listener to focus on the audio content and reducing listener fatigue.

Noise isolation is determined by various factors, such as the design of the ear cups, the material used for the ear cups, and the fit of the headphones. Over-ear headphones with a closed-back design are generally more effective at noise isolation than on-ear or open-back headphones.

The material used for the ear cups is also crucial in determining the noise isolation of headphones. Ear cups made with materials such as memory foam and leatherette can provide a comfortable and snug fit while also providing a good seal around the ears, which helps to block out external noise.

The fit of the headphones is also essential in determining the noise isolation of headphones. Headphones that fit snugly around the ears and provide a good seal are generally more effective at noise isolation than those that do not fit properly.

Microphone quality

Microphone quality is an essential factor when choosing headphones for gaming, streaming, or other applications that require clear and high-quality voice communication. Headphones with a good microphone can provide clear and accurate sound quality, making communication easier and more effective.

The quality of the microphone is determined by various factors, such as the type of microphone, its sensitivity, and its frequency response. There are two main types of microphones used in headphones: the omnidirectional microphone and the unidirectional microphone.

Omnidirectional microphones can pick up sound from all directions, making them ideal for group conversations or recordings. However, they can also pick up background noise and other unwanted sounds.

On the other hand, unidirectional microphones are designed to pick up sound from a specific direction, making them ideal for voice communication. They are also less likely to pick up background noise or unwanted sounds, making them a better choice for voice communication in noisy environments.

The microphone’s sensitivity is also essential to consider when assessing its quality. High-sensitivity microphones can pick up even the faintest sounds. In contrast, low-sensitivity microphones may require the user to speak louder or closer to the microphone.

Finally, the microphone’s frequency response is also an essential factor to consider when assessing its quality. A microphone with a wide frequency response can capture a broader range of sounds, providing clearer and more accurate sound quality.

Best audiophile headphones for gaming

Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X

Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is a highly regarded open-back headphone suitable for various applications, including gaming, music listening, and audio production. They feature a balanced, detailed sound with a strong bass response, ideal for gaming. Their open-back design provides a wide and immersive soundstage.

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro X is a newer version of the DT 990 Pro. It features a detachable cable with a mini-XLR connector, making it easier to replace the cable if it becomes damaged or worn. It also comes with an additional coiled cable, useful for studio use or when you need more mobility.

Both Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro versions are highly regarded for their sound quality, comfort, and durability. They are made with high-quality materials designed to provide a comfortable fit for long listening sessions. They also feature a rugged construction that can withstand heavy use and abuse.

Sennheiser HD 650

Sennheiser HD 650

The Sennheiser HD 650 is a high-end set of open-back headphones highly regarded for its exceptional sound quality. They are suitable for various applications, including music listening, audio production, and gaming.

The HD 650 features Sennheiser’s proprietary technology, delivering a warm, natural, and detailed sound signature. They offer a wide and spacious soundstage, ideal for immersive gaming experiences. The open-back design of the HD 650 also helps to provide an airy and natural sound, making them suitable for extended listening sessions.

The HD 650 is also comfortable for long periods, thanks to its lightweight design and plush earpads. They feature a rugged construction that can withstand heavy use and abuse. They come with a detachable cable for easy replacement if necessary.

Drop + Epos PC38X

The Drop + Epos PC38X is a high-quality set of gaming headphones that is a collaboration between Drop and Epos. They are designed to provide exceptional sound quality, comfort, and durability for gamers who demand the best.

The PC38X features an open-back design that provides a wide and immersive soundstage, making them ideal for gaming. They also have a frequency response range of 12Hz – 38.5kHz, which allows them to reproduce a wide range of audio frequencies with excellent clarity and detail.

These headphones feature Epos’ patented acoustic technology, which delivers a balanced and accurate sound signature with clear mids, detailed highs, and tight bass response. They also come with a noise-canceling microphone that provides clear and crisp voice communication for in-game chat.

The PC38X is also very comfortable to wear, with a lightweight design and plush earpads designed to provide a secure and comfortable fit for extended gaming sessions. They also feature durable construction with high-quality materials, ensuring they can withstand heavy use and abuse.

Nuraphone

Nuraphone

The Nuraphone is a unique set of headphones that combines over-ear and in-ear designs to create a personalized listening experience. They use advanced technology to automatically adjust the sound signature based on the listener’s hearing profile, making them an excellent choice for audiophiles and gamers who demand high-quality sound.

The Nuraphone features an over-ear design with ear cups containing in-ear tips. This combination provides both noise isolation and excellent sound quality. The headphones also feature active noise-cancellation technology, which can block out ambient noise and distractions for an immersive gaming experience.

The headphones use a unique technology called “Nuraphone Personalization,” which measures the listener’s hearing profile through a series of in-app tests. This technology then adjusts the sound signature to the listener’s hearing profile, providing a customized listening experience tailored to their needs.

The Nuraphone also features a haptic feedback system that provides a physical response to low-frequency sounds, allowing users to feel the bass in their music and games. They also come with a noise-canceling microphone that provides clear voice communication for in-game chat.

V-Moda M-200

The V-Moda M-200 is a set of closed-back headphones designed for audiophiles and gamers who demand high-quality sound and durable construction. They are built to withstand heavy use and abuse, making them a great choice for gamers who want headphones that can handle intense gaming sessions.

The M-200 features a balanced, neutral sound signature that delivers clear, detailed audio across the frequency range. They have a frequency response range of 5Hz – 40kHz, which allows them to reproduce a wide range of audio frequencies with excellent clarity and detail. The closed-back design also provides excellent noise isolation, which helps to block out ambient noise and distractions for a more immersive gaming experience.

The headphones also have a high-quality microphone that provides clear and crisp voice communication for in-game chat. The microphone is detachable, which allows for easy replacement if necessary.

The M-200 is also very comfortable, thanks to its lightweight design and memory foam earpads. They are also very durable, with a steel frame and metal ear cups that withstand heavy use and abuse. They come with a hard carrying case for easy transportation and storage.

Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X

The Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is a set of open-back headphones designed for audiophiles and gamers who demand a wide and immersive soundstage. They are built with high-quality materials and advanced technology to provide exceptional sound quality and comfort for extended listening and gaming sessions.

The ATH-AD700X features an open-back design with a wide and spacious soundstage, making them ideal for gaming and music. They also have a frequency response range of 5Hz – 30kHz, which allows them to reproduce a wide range of audio frequencies with excellent clarity and detail.

The headphones feature large 53mm drivers that deliver exceptional audio performance, with clear and detailed mids and highs and accurate bass response. They also come with a self-adjusting 3D Wing Support system that provides a comfortable and secure fit for extended listening sessions.

The ATH-AD700X is also very lightweight, making them suitable for extended gaming sessions. They feature a honeycomb aluminum casing that provides a durable and lightweight construction. They also have a detachable cable and a 1/4-inch adapter for easy connectivity to different audio sources.

Astro A50 Gaming Headset

The Astro A50 Gaming Headset is a wireless headset designed specifically for gaming. It features a high-quality wireless connection with low latency and clear audio for an immersive gaming experience. The headset also has a base station that serves as a charging dock and a wireless transmitter.

The A50 features large 40mm drivers that deliver clear and accurate audio across the frequency range. It also has a frequency response range of 20Hz – 20kHz, which allows it to reproduce a wide range of audio frequencies with excellent detail and clarity. The headset also features Dolby Audio and Dolby Atmos technology, which provides virtual surround sound and a more immersive gaming experience.

The A50 is also very comfortable to wear, with soft and breathable ear cushions and lightweight construction. The headband is also adjustable, allowing users to find the perfect fit for their heads. The headset also features a high-quality microphone that provides clear and crisp voice communication for in-game chat.

One of the standout features of the A50 is its wireless connectivity. It uses a 2.4GHz wireless connection that provides low latency and clear audio. The headset also has a range of up to 30 feet, allowing users to move around freely without losing connection.

Other Audiophile Audio Gear for Gaming

DACs and amplifiers

Digital-to-Analog Converters (DACs) and amplifiers are external audio devices that can enhance the audio quality of your gaming setup. They convert digital audio signals into analog signals, which can then be amplified and sent to your headphones or speakers.

By using a high-quality DAC and amplifier, you can improve the sound quality of your gaming audio, making it more detailed and immersive. This is particularly important for audiophiles who demand the highest audio quality from their gaming experience.

Many DACs and amplifiers are available on the market, ranging from budget-friendly options to high-end models. Some popular options include:

Schiit Magni/Modi: This is a popular budget-friendly DAC and amplifier combo that provides excellent audio quality for the price.

FiiO E10K: Another budget-friendly option that provides high-quality audio and is compatible with a wide range of headphones.

AudioQuest DragonFly: A compact and portable DAC that provides excellent audio quality on the go.

Chord Mojo: A high-end DAC and amplifier that provides exceptional audio quality with a high-quality build and a range of advanced features.

JDS Labs Objective 2: A popular amplifier that provides clean and accurate audio focusing on transparency and detail.

Speakers

While headphones are the most common audio gear used for gaming, some audiophiles prefer speakers to get a more immersive experience. High-quality speakers can provide a wider soundstage and more natural sound, which can be particularly beneficial for games with many environmental sounds.

When selecting speakers for gaming, there are a few factors to consider, such as:

Sound Quality: Sound quality is the most important factor to consider when selecting speakers. You want speakers that can reproduce sound accurate and with good detail so that you can hear all the nuances of the game’s audio. Look for speakers with a flat frequency response, meaning they don’t emphasize any particular frequency range.

Size and Type: The size and type of speakers you choose will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Bookshelf speakers are a popular choice for gaming setups, as they provide good sound quality and can be placed on a desk or shelf. Floor-standing speakers are another option, but they require more space and are usually more expensive. Consider using a subwoofer to enhance the bass response of your speakers.

Connectivity: Make sure the speakers you choose are compatible with your gaming setup. Most speakers will have a standard 3.5mm audio jack or RCA inputs, but you may need additional cables or adapters to connect them to your computer or gaming console.

Some popular speaker options for gaming include:

Audioengine A5+: These bookshelf speakers have an excellent sound quality and a compact design perfect for gaming setups.

KEF LS50 Wireless ii: These speakers are expensive but provide exceptional sound quality and advanced features, including wireless connectivity and built-in amplification.

Edifier R1280T: These affordable bookshelf speakers have a good sound quality and a classic design that looks great on a desk or shelf.

Klipsch RP150M: These bookshelf speakers have a powerful and dynamic sound, making them an excellent choice for gaming setups.

Sound cards

A sound card is a piece of computer hardware designed to process and enhance the audio signals produced by a computer. While most modern computers come with built-in sound processing, adding a sound card can improve the quality and performance of the audio output.

When selecting a sound card for gaming, there are a few factors to consider, such as:

Sound Quality: Sound quality is the most important factor to consider when selecting a sound card. You want a sound card that can reproduce audio accurately and with good detail to hear all the nuances of the game’s audio. Look for sound cards with a high signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) and low total harmonic distortion (THD).

Connectivity: Make sure the sound card you choose is compatible with your gaming setup. Most sound cards will have a standard 3.5mm audio jack or RCA inputs, but you may need additional cables or adapters to connect them to your computer or gaming console.

Features: Some sound cards have additional features to enhance gaming experiences, such as virtual surround sound or built-in amplification. Consider your specific needs and preferences when selecting a sound card.

Some popular sound card options for gaming include:

Creative Sound Blaster Z: This sound card has excellent sound quality and advanced audio processing capabilities, including 24-bit/192kHz playback and 116dB SNR.

ASUS Xonar Essence STX II: This sound card is designed for audiophiles and provides exceptional sound quality with a high SNR and low THD. It also features a built-in headphone amplifier and support for virtual surround sound.

HT Omega Claro Halo: This sound card provides excellent sound quality and features a range of advanced audio processing capabilities, including Dolby Digital Live and DTS Connect. It also has a built-in headphone amplifier and support for virtual surround sound.

Tips for Choosing and Using Audiophile Headphones

Properly fit the headphones.

Proper fit is essential for getting the best sound quality from audiophile headphones. Here are some tips for ensuring a good fit:

Adjust the headband: Most audiophile headphones have an adjustable headband that can be resized to fit your head. Adjust the headband so that the ear cups sit comfortably over your ears.

Adjust the ear cups: The ear cups should completely cover your ears, creating a seal to prevent sound leakage. Adjust the ear cups to fit snugly but comfortably over your ears.

Use the right size ear tips: If using in-ear monitors, choose the right size ear tips to ensure a proper fit. The ear tips should seal your ear canal, blocking external noise and preventing sound leakage.

Experiment with different ear pad materials: Some audiophile headphones have interchangeable ear pads made from materials like leather or velour. Experiment with different materials to find the one that provides the most comfort and best sound quality for your needs.

Take breaks: Wearing headphones for extended periods can cause discomfort or pain. Take breaks every hour or so to give your ears a rest.

Adjust the volume to a safe level.

Adjusting the volume to a safe level is important for protecting your hearing and getting the best sound quality from audiophile headphones. Here are some tips for adjusting the volume:

Use a volume limiter: Some audiophile headphones have built-in volume limiters that prevent the volume from going above a certain level. You can use a separate volume limiter device if your headphones don’t have this feature.

Follow the 60/60 rule: The 60/60 rule is a guideline for safe listening. Keep the volume at 60% or less of the maximum, and limit your listening to 60 minutes.

Use a sound meter: You can use a sound meter app on your phone to measure the volume level and ensure it’s safe.

Adjust the volume gradually: Gradually increasing the volume allows your ears to adjust and prevent sudden loud bursts that can damage your hearing.

Take breaks to prevent ear fatigue.

Taking breaks is an important part of using audiophile headphones for gaming. Ear fatigue can occur when you use headphones for extended periods, causing discomfort or pain. Here are some tips for taking breaks and preventing ear fatigue:

Take breaks every hour: Take a 5-10 minute break every hour to give your ears a rest. During this time, you can remove your headphones and walk or stretch.

Use noise-canceling headphones: Noise-cancelling headphones block out external noise, allowing you to hear your music at a lower volume; this can reduce ear fatigue and prevent hearing damage.

Adjust the volume: Listening to music at a high volume can cause ear fatigue. Adjust the volume to a comfortable level, allowing you to hear the music without straining your ears.

Switch to speakers: Using speakers instead of headphones can give your ears a break and reduce ear fatigue. However, speakers can disturb others around you, so this may not be an option in all situations.

Use a headphone stand to store the headphones.

Using a headphone stand to store audiophile headphones is a great way to protect and keep them organized. Here are some reasons why using a headphone stand is a good idea:

Protection: Storing your headphones on a stand can prevent them from getting damaged. Placing them on a flat surface, such as a desk or table, can cause them to get scratched or damaged over time. A headphone stand keeps them safe and secure.

Organization: A headphone stand keeps your headphones organized and within reach. Instead of searching for your headphones, you can easily find them on the stand.

Space-saving: A headphone stand takes up less space than laying your headphones on a flat surface. This can be particularly useful if you have limited space on your desk or table.

Aesthetics: Many headphone stands are designed to look stylish and sleek, adding to the aesthetic of your gaming setup.

When choosing a headphone stand, look for one that is sturdy and can support the weight of your headphones. You can also find stands with additional features, such as built-in charging ports or cable management. Using a headphone stand to store your audiophile headphones, you can protect them and keep your gaming setup organized and stylish.

Conclusion

Choosing the right audiophile headphones can significantly enhance your gaming experience. Factors to consider when choosing audiophile headphones include sound quality, comfort, durability, noise isolation, microphone quality, and price. Some of the best audiophile headphones for gaming include the Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X, Sennheiser HD 650, Drop + Epos PC38X, Nuraphone, V-Moda M-200, Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X, and Astro A50 Gaming Headset.

When using audiophile headphones for gaming, it’s important to take breaks, adjust the volume to a safe level, and properly fit the headphones to prevent ear fatigue and hearing damage. A headphone stand to store your headphones can also protect them from damage and organize your gaming setup.

In addition to audiophile headphones, consider using DACs and amplifiers, speakers, and sound cards to enhance your gaming audio experience further.

Jenny Fischer
Jenny Fischer
Articles: 179

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