An honest ranking of the best wired headphones in 2020 with good quality sound. The rating was helped by Maxim Smolin - an audiophile and just a good person.
Value for money is a decisive factor when choosing wired headphones... Their main advantage over Bluetooth models is that wired ones will sound better at the same cost. Their full-size and vacuum types stand out. If you are a true music lover, here are the 15 best models. Most of them are on sale in the middle price range - from $ 145 to $ 200.
Splitting headphone prices
Among wired headphones there are three price segments:
- Inexpensive - up to $ 50. Either good sound or good looks are found in this category. All at once - this is not about budget headphones. They will last a couple of years, while not particularly pleasing the owner.
- Average cost - from $ 50 to $ 300. This category is divided into two more: $ 50-150 and $ 150-300. Headphones from the first are suitable for an unassuming music lover, from the second - a more picky listener. Headphones with this price tag are made of better materials and have a long service life.
- Expensive - from $ 300 to infinity. Such models are often unreasonably overpriced, mainly due to a well-known brand. Headphones from this price segment are characterized by excellent sound, usability and a pleasing design.
Inexpensive full-size headphones under 15,000 rubles
Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro - High Quality Studio Headphones
Rating 2020:5,0
- full-size, closed
- dynamic
- sensitivity 96 dB
- impedance 250 Ohm
- mini jack 3.5 mm
Average price: 16 200 rubles
Studio wired headphones with good natural sound, suitable for listening to music of any genre. This versatile model has been in production since 1985, and has not undergone significant changes. The German company has maintained quality standards since the last century.
The best quality of the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro is rich sound. They will suit both the music connoisseur and the professional. They sound similar to the DT 990 PRO. The headband and ear cushions are soft and pleasant to the touch. The latter can be replaced if necessary. The assembly was carried out in good faith using reliable materials. It is best revealed with an amplifier.
There are also disadvantages: a boring design that lags a couple of decades behind, an awkward design and a non-removable cable. But the main plus is the excellent sound quality!
Fostex T40RP MK3 - professional closed-back headphones
Rating 2020:4,9
- full-size, closed
- planar
- sensitivity 91 dB
- impedance 50 Ohm
- mini jack 3.5 mm with detachable cable
Average price: 11 990 rub
Wired monitor headphones that have received many positive reviews on the Internet. Crisp and clear sound reproduction and 3000mW maximum input power. These headphones boast passive noise isolation. If people around hear music, it is very quiet, so you can enjoy your favorite tracks at full volume. After a long period of use, the ears do not get tired, despite the closed design. Perfect fit on the head.
It is best to connect them to an amplifier or laptop. Some of the sound will be lost when listening through a telephone. Also, there are no original ear pads on sale, and you will have to try to find new ones if necessary.
There are two cables in the complex: a 3-meter with a 6.3 mm plug and a 1.2-meter with a 3.5 mm plug.
Sony MDR-1AM2
Rating 2020:4,8
- with microphone
- full-size, closed
- dynamic
- sensitivity 98 dB
- impedance 16 Ohm
Average price: 11 323 rub
Inexpensive non-monitor wired headphones with studio quality sound. Compared to the models described above, the Sony MDR-1AM2 stands out with a striking design. The combination of metal and leather not only looks impressive, but also pleasant to the touch. The sound does not lag behind the exterior. These headphones can be called versatile. The headphones have a built-in microphone, so they are perfect for a phone or compact player.
Before buying, you should test them with your sound source and on your favorite songs. Users note that after three months of use, this device starts to play perfectly - it needs to be "warmed up".
In use, the structure seems fragile, the main components are made of plastic. Users recommend replacing the factory ear pads with more comfortable ones, as over time, the place of their connection with the case begins to creak. Minus in sound - high frequencies slightly cut the ear. Finally, there is only one 1.2m cable included, which can be awkward.
Audio-Technica ATH-AD500X - open Hi-fi headphones
Rating 2020:4,7
- full-size, open
- dynamic
- sensitivity 100 dB
- impedance 48 Ohm
- mini jack 3.5 mm
Average price: 11 990 rub
This headphone model stands out for its use in the studio. It transmits signals exactly as they were recorded. The sound quality depends on the quality of the track. This gives an advantage when working: the edited track is transmitted on the air in exactly the same way as in headphones - they do not artificially improve the sound. Provides accurate and deep sound. Thanks to its clever design, the device sits softly but firmly on the head.
Best suited for genres: instrumental, metal, rock. It is best revealed with an amplifier. Sounds not very good with a smartphone.
Of the features that can repel: you will have to listen to music while sitting, because large sizes interfere with lying down, and the wire does not allow moving. No soundproofing. The music reaches those around you - not much, but still noticeable. Also, the package does not include a cover.
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
Rating 2020:4,6
- full-size, closed
- dynamic
- sensitivity 102 dB
- impedance 64 Ohm
- mini jack 3.5 mm
Average price: 6 699 rub
Assembled in Ireland, Sennheisers are suitable for making music and listening to it for a long time. Noise reduction at a high level - you can't even hear yourself. The earphones are made of metal and plastic. They look stern, like professional equipment, not a toy for an amateur. Their design can be attributed to both advantages and disadvantages.
The only headphones among the five described, in which a twisted wire is provided. It is heavy, but it is more difficult to damage or hook it than straight. The design is bulky, so portable use is difficult. Some users report that pressure is felt on the head during use.
The best full-size headphones over 15,000 rubles
Sennheiser HD 800S
Rating 2020:5,0
- full-size, open
- dynamic
- impedance 300 Ohm
- jack jack 6.3 mm with detachable cable
- weight 330 g
Average price: 109 900 rub
"Created for perfection". The manufacturer claims the HD 800 S headphones deliver sound at levels imaginable. From what they say, Sennheiser has created something beyond perfection.
If we talk about the characteristics of the more mundane and obvious, we note the sturdy construction of multi-layer metal. Due to the special placement of the ear cups, the sound reaches the ears slightly at an angle. This allows you to listen to music for 8-12 hours without feeling tired. Finally, the main feature is the patented damping technology that creates a realistic sound space.
Consider before buying the nuance that you will have to spend time adjusting the equalizer. In order for the capabilities of the headphones to be fully revealed, you will have to adapt to it and conjure over the sound source.
AKG K 712 Pro
Rating 2020:4,9
- full-size, open
- dynamic
- sensitivity 105 dB
- impedance 62 Ohm
- jack jack 6.3 mm with detachable cable
Average price: 27 890 rub
These wired headphones are hand-assembled in Austria. They weigh 235 grams, so they are practically not felt when listening to music. Velor ear cushions guarantee extra comfort. The set includes two wires: straight and twisted. The first is suitable for portable use, the second is stationary.
Disadvantages include design. This model sounds better than it looks. Also, be prepared for the fact that even with careful use, the cord can break within a year.
Beyerdynamic Custom Studio
Rating 2020:4,8
- full-size, closed
- dynamic
- sensitivity 96 dB
- impedance 80 Ohm
- mini jack 3.5 mm with detachable cable
Average price: 20 133 rub
Wired headphones with manually adjustable bass and customization in color and material. Like the previous model, the ears are made of velor. Such material is a compromise between expensive leather and uncomfortable leatherette. Excellent positioning of sound in space is achieved through high audio detail.
Every barrel of honey has a fly in the ointment, and Custom Studio is no exception. Without a high-quality sound source, their potential will not be revealed, so it makes no sense to use them with a regular smartphone. The shape of the ear pads does not take into account the anatomical features, so they press noticeably on the head. There is no feeling of vacuum.
Sennheiser HD 650
Rating 2020:4,7
- full-size, open
- dynamic
- sensitivity 103 dB
- impedance 300 Ohm
- jack jack 6.3 mm with detachable cable
Average price: 24 350 rub
The first thing that catches the eye - or rather, ears - is an open type of acoustic design and a wide virtual stage. This model is suitable for professionals and sound engineers. Heard by an amateur, the tone correction will make him disgusted with modern vocalists. The design will impress connoisseurs - austere and without unnecessary embellishment.
Of the minuses - the design of the headband is poorly made, but with careful use, these headphones will last for many years. The bass doesn't sound expressive enough. No noise isolation.
In short, these headphones are not suitable for listening to music in the usual sense. The HD 650 is more of a recording and studio tool than entertainment.
Beyerdynamic Amiron Home
Rating 2020:4,6
- full-size, open
- dynamic
- sensitivity 102 dB
- impedance 250 Ohm
- mini jack 3.5 mm with detachable cable
Average price: 49 990 rub
The nicest thing about this model is the pre-top sound. The headphones are designed for true connoisseurs of instrumental music. As the name suggests, Amiron Homes are suitable for home listening to classical or jazz music. “Hear the first violin in the second row” - this is about Beyerdynamic headphones.
Those looking to find a universal model may be disappointed in this device. Electronic or dance music will not open on it. Also, Amiron Home requires a high-quality sound source and will not sound fully without it.
Best in-ear and vacuum headphones
Westone W10
Rating 2020:5,0
- with microphone
- intracanal
- reinforcement
- working time 8 h
- sensitivity 122 dB
Average price: 22 990 rub
Headphones open the Westone W line, where models from W10 to W80 are consistently presented, excluding the W70. The first thing to consider is that the W10 has a BTE wearing style. To put them on correctly, insert the earpiece with the cable facing up and pass it behind your ear.
The design is classic for in-ear headphones. Strict black plastic does not cause either rejection or delight.
The entry-level model plays well even when connected to a smartphone or home PC. It is inferior to the elders in the number of drivers. Only one is built into it, and therefore the lower bass is played out worse than on the W30 or W50. However, in its price category, the "ten" looks worthy.
Shure SE425
Rating 2020:4,9
- intracanal
- reinforcing, number of drivers: 2
- sensitivity 109 dB
- impedance 20 Ohm
- mini jack 3.5 mm with detachable cable
Average price: 16 490 rubles
Two-driver headphones, suitable for listening to music from a smartphone. Against the background of the described models, which require additional equipment, these become salvation for the average listener.
As is typical for Shure, noise isolation is excellent. It manifests itself especially well when using foam lances. The mid tones sound clear and correct, but the bass isn't played out enough. It depends on personal preference whether these headphones are right for you or not. Opinions about this model are divided into two camps, so it's worth trying it live.
Sennheiser IE 80 S
Rating 2020:4,8
- intracanal
- dynamic
- sensitivity 116 dB
- impedance 16 Ohm
- mini jack 3.5 mm with detachable cable
Average price: 18 990 rub
Unlike the two models described above, these wired headphones have bass controls. Their sound meets the needs of casual amateurs and strict audiophiles. It combines brightness and precision with dynamism.
A nice feature - the ears do not get tired after long use. The set includes 9 replaceable ear pads. Finding suitable ones for yourself is not difficult. If desired, you can also replace the cable.
The main disadvantages are exactingness to the source and ambiguous positioning. A connoisseur will pay extra and buy better quality headphones, an ordinary music lover will regret wasted money listening to music from the phone. Finally, sharp and pronounced bass is not to everyone's taste.
Dunu titan 3
Rating 2020:4,7
- intracanal
- dynamic
- sensitivity 110 dB
- impedance 16 Ohm
- mini jack 3.5 mm with detachable cable
Average price: 7 941 rub
Steel body, intelligent monitor sound and comfortable fit. This combination outweighs the balance between price and quality towards the latter.
The sound can be changed depending on the attachments. Blacks give a realistic dense sound, reds are more detailed and bright, foamy ones are even and soft. The model is perfect for connoisseurs of jazz and classical music. For lovers of bass and low tones, the Titan 5 from the same manufacturer is more suitable.
The disadvantages include the almost complete absence of a virtual scene.
Whizzer A15 pro
Rating 2020:4,6
- intracanal
- sensitivity 98 dB
- impedance 16 Ohm
- mini jack 3.5 mm with detachable cable
- weight 8.9 g
Average price: 6 950 rub
Universal model. It is characterized by a moderate sound that justifies its cost. Adequate bass does not drown out other frequencies. The design is compact and laconic.
However, the A15 pro also has some bad moments. You cannot call them ergonomic. After sudden movements or turns of the head, the headphones fly out, although it is not an easy task to firmly insert them into the ear. You always want to push and insert them more securely, although they have already taken their position. Also, users note a poor-quality wire coming in the factory configuration.