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Different Types of Headphones Explained

Headphones come in various shapes, forms, kinds, and degrees of sophistication. To be able to make the most informed purchasing decision, you want to know about the various types of headphones and what each of them entails. This is the role we have stepped in to solve.

Our aim in the proceeding conservations is to list and explain these kinds for you to see. We have identified the most outstanding and commonly used headphones and are going to explain each of them here below.

8 Types of Headphones in the Market

1.

Closed-Back Headphones

These are headphones whose backs are completely sealed. This arrangement allows the sound output to be channeled exclusively to that point they can reach the ear with ease. For this reason, they do emit music and sounds which may not be very natural.

On the flipside, they do block out sufficient amounts of background noise which in turn leads to greater sound clarity. One major downside of these headphones is that they isolate you from the ambient environment. As such, you lose touch with reality and may even get involved in an accident. They are not safe to wear while driving.

2.

Open-Back Headphones

Open-back headphones are the exact opposite of the closed-back counterparts. In these headphones, the backs are open as there are no barriers between the drivers and the outside world. As a matter of fact, you can see straight through between the outside and the inside of the headphones in some models.

They do have a wider sound stage i.e. they basically allow you to hear the music and ambient sounds at the same time. They are also less bulky and easy to handle at the same time. Their sound quality is rather poor though. This is due to the fact that the real world sound is mixed with the audio output. Also, due to the sound leak, there is no confidentiality and are hence unsuitable for use in installations that are sensitive to noise.

3.

On-Ear Headphones

Also called supra-aural, these are special headphones which are designed to cover the entire ears. They are as such much larger than the standard earbuds. They are however smaller and more compact when compared to the over-the-ear counterparts.

When worn on the ears, they completely immerse you in the sound output and minimize the leaks. This leads to minimal interferences with those around you and is hence great for use in public places. By their sheer sizes, they are larger and bulkier to handle. You will find them quite uncomfortable when worn for long.

4.

Over-Ear Headphones

Over-ear headphones are also called circus-aural. This is to mean that they go over and around your ears thus enclosing them tightly. With this arrangement in mind, they do have some great bass responses. This is not to mention that they also have the largest sound stage.

This is the headphone to go for if you intend to listen to music for a prolonged duration of time. They do have a serious drawback in that they predispose your ears to sweat and some discomforts if improper padding is used to make them up. Due to their better shape and form, they are costlier and may even require some amplifiers to work well.

5.

In-Ear Headphones

In-ear headphones are also called canal phones or in-ear monitors (IEMs). They are so called because their tips are inserted in rather than over or around the ears. They channel sounds directly into the eardrums and are as such pretty effective. These kinds of earphones are compact in size and are hence suited for use on the go.

If you intend to share the earphones, you are advised against this kind of appliance. That is because they easily pick up dirt in the ears and may hence spread the germs easily. Their sound output is also not so great as compared to the other alternatives.

6.

Earbuds

Earbuds are very small ‘headphones’ which are inserted in the ears. They are often wireless in nature and are used for non-invasive listening of the sound and audio output. Generally speaking, they are smaller and hence take up less space. For this reason, they are suitable for on-the-go applications and circumstances of use.

Just like their in-ear counterparts, they are not so hygienic to use as they easily spread germs when shared from one person to another. They may also pose some damages to the eardrums when worn and used for longer. You have to use them moderately.

7.

Bluetooth Headphones

These are special kinds of headphones which draw in signals from the source purely through Bluetooth connectivity rather than cables. This wireless nature reduces clutter and diminishes the likelihood of tripping or falling in the course of use. They are also more convenient to utilize on the whole compared to their wired counterparts.

Their major downsides though is the fact that they are prone to the risks of signal interferences. This is especially when many other wirelesses are used in their vicinity at the same time. The quality of the sound output may also be compromised.

8.

Noise-Cancelling Headphones

As the name suggests, the noise-canceling headphones are those that are designed to filter out background noise to deliver foreground sounds of crisp clear quality. To do this, they employ many techniques for soundproofing and blocking of stray noises. The end result is deeply immersive and clear sounds.

Even though these headphones are great, they might let you lose touch with reality and even involve yourself with accidents. That is because they completely shut you out from the goings-on in your environment. You want to avoid them while on the go.

The Final Words (Conclusion)

Having known about the different types of headphones, isn’t it now wise of you to go ahead and acquire the right one? What are you waiting for? Drag not your feet as you might have to pay more by postponing the decision to a later date.

It is also noteworthy that the manufacturers of these headphones are constantly innovating. As such, there could be newer and different kinds in circulation sooner than you think. Keep tabs of this page as we are always on the lookout for them to update you.

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Open-Back Vs. Closed-Back Headphones

Closed-back vs open-back

Most headphones are “closed-back,” which is to say, the outer part of the headphone cups have a hard enclosure. In the image at the top, the black B&W P7s (on the right), are closed back. Open-back, as you’ve probably figured, leaves the back of head phone cup open. TheAudeze LCD3 on the left, is open back.

I love it when tech terminology is simple. There are benefits to both kinds, which is where things get interesting.

Today In:

Tech

The small speaker drivers in headphones emit sound in both directions: towards your ears, and away from your ears (as in, out towards the world). Closed-back headphones largely block the sound aimed towards the world. Open-back headphones, of course, let this sound largely go free.

In general terms, closed-back headphones are designed to isolate you from the outside world. It’s just you and your music. The downside is the music is a lot more “in your head” sounding. It’s less like a “band in a concert hall” and more “a band in your head.” Perhaps not that extreme, but you get the idea. Again, this is generally speaking. There can be exceptions.

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Headphones: The complete history

From the Electrophone to Fanny Wang - how a tool for telephone operators became couture for footballers

24 DECEMBER 2013/11:03GMT

Buds, cans, on-ear, in-ear, closed back or custom-fit, there's a variety of headphone to suit every ear, every wallet and every fashion proclivity. And, despite it feeling quite new to not be able to move for fear of knocking the £300-worth of oversized earwear from a hipster's bonce, headphones have been an essential part of any music enthusiast's tech armoury for decades.

In fact, they've been an integral part of music for well over a century, and while strapping two speakers to your head doesn’t sound all that difficult the progress from Ernest Mercadier’s telephonist’s tool to Dr. Dre’s global empire is an oddly compelling one. Read on to find out why.

THE EARLY YEARS (1890 TO 1930)

Before Spotify Premium there was the Electrophone. Invented in Britain in the 1890s, this subscription service (extravagant at £5 a year) allowed customers to dial in to a switchboard and be connected to a live performance from theatres across London. Cutting-edge stuff in a pre-radio world – and the headsets, complete with natty holding pole, were the Beats by Dr. Dre of their day.

But that’s nothing compared to the genius of French engineer Ernest Mercadier, who was awarded a patent for the first ever in-ear headphones in 1891. Designed to be used by telephonists, they even boasted earbuds to block out external sounds.

Electrophone image credit: britishtelephones.com

Mercardier image credit: Vintage Telephones of the World

IN THE NAVY (1910 TO 1950)

Fundamentalist Mormon and engineer Nathaniel Baldwin invented the first pair of audio headphones on his kitchen table in 1910. His idea, initially dismissed by sceptical private investors, was picked up by the US Navy who ordered 100 pairs and made him a rich man. Money well spent? Not quite: he invested his fortune in supporting the Mormon polygamous movement and went bankrupt.

Image credit: afflictor.com

AHEAD OF THE GAME (1937 TO 1949)

Until WWII put an end to production, German hi-fi stalwarts Bayerdynamic invented the world’s first dynamic headphones for home listening. Launched in 1937, the DT-48 remained in production (in one form or another) until 2012.

Meanwhile, across the border in Vienna, AKG (established in 1947) was busy inventing the thoroughly modern K120s. Neither pair made much of an impression but the original poster provided the template for all headphone ads since – the perfect balance of impressive-sounding tech specs and marketing mumbo-jumbo.

THE KOSS EFFECT (1958 TO PRESENT DAY)

In 1958, John Koss rewrote the rule book when he created the first stereo headphones, the Koss SP-3. Early models were nothing more than mini speakers covered in cardboard and sofa foam, but their impact was immense. Rather than make do with radio communication equipment and aviation hardware, Jazz lover Koss came up with something purely for music – and he helped fuel a revolution in the way people listened to it. His timing couldn’t have been better, coinciding with the invention of the teenager and this thing called Rock ‘n’ Roll.

REVOLUTION IN THE HEAD (1965 TO 1975)

Koss dominated the early part of the swinging sixties – thanks to the arrival of cheap turntables and intolerant parents - and can be blamed for the present day dirge of celebrity endorsements. The Koss Beatlesphones were nothing more than an average set of cans covered in stickers but they sold out globally and remain one of the most sought-after bits of Fab Four memorabilia.

But their dominance was to be short lived as Philips, Onkyo and Sennheiser came to the party with increasingly affordable designs that sounded good and looked the part.

The most important of which was Sennheiser ‘s HD 414, the world's first open headphones. This lightweight game changer was an instant hit, with music fans happy to ditch the bulky closed back claustrophobic cans of old and embrace a smooth clear open sound. 100,000 sets were sold by the end of 1969 and their mass appeal means they remain the most successful design of all time.

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Audeze LCD-2 Classic Open System

Headphones

Open-back

Over-ear

Transducer size: 106 mm

Neodymium Magnets (N50)

Impedance: 70 Ohm

Transmission range: 10 - 50,000 Hz

Sensitivity: 101 dB / 1 mw

Leather-free headband with spring steel suspension

Imitation leather ear pads

Includes 1.9 m cable with 6.3 mm jack plug / 4-pin mini-XLR cable

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Wired vs Wireless: Which headphones should you get?

A good pair of headphones will last you years if you take care of them properly, so you want to make sure you invest in the right type. One of the biggest questions people think of when buying a new pair of headphones is whether or not to go with wireless Bluetooth or stick with a wired pair. Both options have merit, and depending on how you intend to use your headphones, one or the other may be better suited to your needs.

I have used several pairs of both wired and wireless headphones and will walk you through a few of the big pros and cons of each to help you make a well-informed decision.

Sound Quality

The difference in sound quality between Bluetooth headphones and wired headphones has lessened over time; however, some diehard audiophiles still believe a wired connection sounds more "authetic" than a Bluetooth connection. It is true that Bluetooth can only handle so much information across it's signal, and that is less infromation than a standard wired connection; however, most people probably wouldn't know the difference.

Bluetooth headphones generally support a maximum of 768 kbps while standard wired headphones can handle up to 2,304 kbps, depending on the output ratio and the device it is sending the signal through. So, yes, technically, wired supports better quality sound than wireless, but most digital audio files are only 256 kbps, and even the highest quality bitrate files are about 320 to 521 kbps.

The biggest difference in sound quality, on both wired and wireless headphones, is going to depend on the brand and the quality. Different manufacturers design headphones with different equalization (or EQ) levels. For example, Beats come pre-installed with levels that are intentionally EQ'ed for heavy bass, wireless and wired. Blue offers manual EQ-ing directly on its wired and wireless headphone line, so you can made adjustments based on what you're listening to.

Sound quality does differ between wired and wireless headphones, but if you're listening to digital music, chances are, you aren't going to notice the difference, anyway. Listening to music on vinyl... now, that's another story.

Complete freedom… at least in theory

There is nothing quite as freeing as having a pair of Bluetooth headphones. Connecting your headphones to your phone, computer, or tablet and having the freedom to walk away 50 feet away while still hearing everything is intoxicating. It makes practically every task easier.

How many times have you been listening to your music with wired headphones only to accidentally rip them out of your ears on the corner of a table or a doorknob? You don't have to worry about obstacles getting in your way, meaning you're free to do anything you want. Chores around the house, working out at the gym, and even listening to a podcast in bed has been made much easier with Bluetooth headphones, because I don't have to deal with a long cords getting tangled or caught in anything.

Unfortunately, there is a drawback to the complete freedom that Bluetooth headphones offer, and that's battery life.

Regardless of how long the battery life is rated on your pair of Bluetooth headphones, when it runs out, you'll be out of luck. Now, I know you're going to be quick to point out that lots of Bluetooth cans come with a 3.5mm cable and can be used wired, and you'd be right. But, I dare you to remember to carry around that cable with you everywhere you go in case you get stranded with no juice. It's not as easy as it sounds, I have often run out of power on my Bluetooth headphones, and it's infuriating.

The fact of the matter is Bluetooth headphones need charging, and you need to remember to do it. Plus, running out of battery life in the middle of your favorite tune during an intense workout is a whole new level of disappointment that no one should have to experience.

Your present device and future devices

It's essential that you think about what device you want to use your headphones with, both now and in the future, when planning on purchasing a new pair.

The latest iteration of the iPhone saw Apple getting rid of the standard headphone jack, and other phones companies like HTC are following suit. It may become harder and harder to find a phone that can support a 3.5mm wired connection going forward. If your phone is the primary device you plan on using your new cans with, you'll need to think long and hard about whether staying with a wired connection is the smartest move in the long run. Are you planning on switching phones in the next year or two? Can you guarantee that your new phone will have a headphone jack? Both important questions to ask yourself when you're considering your next headphone purchase.

Of course, a 3.5mm connection isn't he only way to listen to music with a wired pair of headphones. There are plently of great options for Lightning headphones that can be used with the 3.5mm jack-less iPhone 7. You can even find USB-C connected headphones for Android-powered devices that dropped the standard 3.5mm jack long ago. It's worth mentioning that, although the catalogue of Lightning or USB-C headphones is still much smaller than standard wired headphones, it's a market that will only become more and more populated as more companies ditch the headphone jack.

Alternatively, if you plan on using your headphones predominantly with a tablet or PC, chances are you are much safer when it comes to future-proofing. There doesn't seem to be any widespread concern that headphone jacks are going to disappear from desktops or PCs anytime soon, meaning a wired connection will still be an option for you in the years to come.

Future-proofing is important, but don't forget about the technology you're currently using either. There's no use buying a pair of headphones you can't use right out of the box with your current device. You may need to invest in an adapter in order to use your headphones with your current device and make sure it will also work with something you buy in the near future. #firstworldproblems

In Conclusion

When it comes to the Bluetooth vs. wired headphones debate, it mostly comes down to personal preference.

If you love having a pair of cans that work with a wider variety of technology, like older devices, turntables, and video game consoles, and will never leave you high and dry by running out of battery life, a wired pair will offer you plenty of enjoyment.

On the flip side, if you like the freedom to move around without cables and cords hanging out of your pockets and bags, and you love the idea of future-proofing,Bluetooth headphones are going to be the choice for you.

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Ultrasone PRO-780i

Headphones

Can be folded

Closed construction

Circumaural

S-Logic Plus Technology

ULE technology (ULE = Ultra Low Emission) for the reduction of low-frequency fields

Drivers: 40 mm mylar-titanium diaphragm

Impedance: 35 ohm

Frequency response: 10 - 26,000 Hz

2.5 m straight cable with a 3.5 mm jack and screw on 6.3 mm adapter

Weight: 295g

Incl. 1 pair of artificial leather ear cushions, 1 pair of silver velour ear cushions and a bag

5 Year manufacturer warranty

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These were the most popular headphones on CNET last month (February 2017)

Headphones are a popular product category on CNET, and sometimes people ask me for a simple list of the most popular models.

I can't tell you what people are actually buying -- that's up to folks like NPD Group, which tracks online and brick-and-mortar sales everywhere, not just at CNET -- but I do know how much traffic our headphone reviews get.

With that in mind, here's a look at the most popular headphone reviews on CNET for the month of February 2017. Not surprisingly, since we've been doing more wireless headphone reviews as the market has shifted toward wireless, every headphone on the list is wireless.

1. Beats by Dre BeatsX

2. Bose SoundSport Wireless

3. Bose QuietComfort 35

4. Doppler Labs Here One

5. Apple AirPods

6. Jaybird X3

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Sennheiser Momentum Free

n-Ear Bluetooth Earphones

Made of high quality materials such as stainless steel and chrome

Ergonomic headphone design

Magnetic earphones

Bluetooth 4.2 and aptX codec

Up to 6 hours operating time

Max. Sound pressure level: 118 dB SPL @ 1 kHz, 1 V RMS

Impedance: 28 ohms

Freuqnecy range: 15 - 22000 Hz

THD <0.5% (1 kHz / 100 dB)

Includes USB charging cable

Eartips set (XS, S, M, L) and carrying bag

Weight: 17 g

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Kygo A11/800 Black

Over Ear Bluetooth Headset

Active Noise Cancellation

Bluetooth 5.0

Driver: 40 mm

SPL: 110 dB ±3 dB

Frequency range: 15 - 22,000 Hz

Control buttons and microphone on the headphones

Up to 20 hours operating time (with ANC)

Up to 15 m range

AptX and AAC codecs

NFC Pairing

Weight: 250 g

Colour: Black

Case included

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Sony WH-XB900N Blue

Sony WH-XB900N Blue Noise Cancelling Bluetooth Headphone - Extra Bass Series, wireless via bluetooth V 4.2. (A2DP, AVRCP, HFP, HSP), over ear design, 40 mm drivers, Frequency range 20 - 20000 Hz, Sensitivity 101 dB/mW, Impedance 50 Ohms, up to 30 h running time, upt to 10 m range, incl. bag, headphone cable and USB charging cable, weight 254 g, colour blue

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5 Best Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones Of 2019

We buy our own products and put them under the same testing methodology so that you can easily compare them. Unlike most websites, we do not get our products directly from the manufacturers, which means our units aren’t handpicked and actually represent what you would buy yourself. We spend a lot of time comparing the products side-by-side to validate our results and we keep them until they are discontinued so we can continually go back and make sure our reviews are always accurate.

Noise-canceling headphones have had a bit of reputation in the past for being bulky and less convenient than normal wired headphones. While it’s true that some models today still require a wired connection or AAA batteries to operate, some of the best noise-canceling headphones feature long-lasting rechargeable batteries and Bluetooth technology for greater ease of use. Noise-canceling headphones can be really cool; once you try a well-built wireless pair it can be hard to go back to regular headphones, especially if you take the bus to work every day or work in a noisy office. We’ve tested 311 headphones so far, and below you’ll find our picks for the best Bluetooth noise-canceling headphones of 2019.

Bose QuietComfort 35 II: Remarkably comfortable over-ears that sound great

Bose QuietComfort 35 II

RTINGS.COM

Type: Over-ear

Enclosure: Closed-back

Wireless: Yes (can be used wired)

The best Bluetooth noise-canceling headphones that we’ve reviewed so far are the Bose QuietComfort 35 II (QC35 II). They’re among the most comfortable headphones that we’ve tested and are a very good choice for long flights or those with lengthy commutes.

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The QC35 II are great at blocking out distracting office chatter and effectively cancel out the low rumbles of bus and plane engines. This makes them well-suited for office use as well as travel, since they’re comfortable and block out noise well. They have a great rechargeable battery life that lasts for 20 hours, so you don’t have to worry about running out of battery during a road trip or long flight.

Unfortunately, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II leak quite a bit of sound, which could be distracting to your colleagues or to people standing at a bus stop with you, but if you don’t listen to your music at extreme volumes it should be fine most of the time. All things considered, the Bose QC35 II are very good Bluetooth noise-canceling headphones for travel and office use if they fit in your budget.

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Sony WH-1000XM3: Highly customizable over-ears with great noise cancellation

Sony WH-1000XM3

RTINGS.COM

Type: Over-ear

Enclosure: Closed-back

Wireless: Yes (can be used wired)

If you need better isolation than what the Bose QuietComfort 35 II provides, get the Sony WH-1000XM3. They’re not quite as comfortable as the QuietComfort 35 II, but they have much better leakage performance. They’re a better choice for use in situations when you want to be sure you won’t disrupt others with the sound of your music leaking out of your headphones.

The Sony WH-1000XM3 have an impressive companion app with tons of customization options like a parametric EQ, media player, room effects, ANC control and more. They have a great 27-hour battery life, and if you ever forget to charge them before a trip, just 10 to 15 minutes of charging will give you up to 5 hours of playback. You can then use the app to set the auto-off timer to help prolong the battery life further.

Unfortunately, the Sony WH-1000XM3 have a touch-sensitive control scheme that doesn’t work properly in the cold. This won’t be a problem indoors or for people who live in areas that don’t experience below-freezing temperatures but could be a deal-breaker for those who live in colder climates and intend to use their headphones outdoors.

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Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2: Easy-to-use over-ears with a great battery

Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2

RTINGS.COM

Type: Over-ear

Enclosure: Closed-back

Wireless: Yes (can be used wired)

If you’re looking for Bluetooth noise-canceling over-ears with an even better battery than that of the Sony WH-1000XM3 but don’t want to break the bank, get the Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2. They’re very good headphones for office use and are decent for commuting too.

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 have an outstanding 30-hour battery life that will last you multiple long days of audio playback. They take only a little over 2 hours to charge, which is fairly quick, and have additional battery saving features like smart pause and auto-off. The BackBeat Pro 2 have an exciting sound that is rich in bass and well-suited for genres like hip-hop and EDM that have a lot of thump and rumble.

The Plantronics BackBeat Pro 2 have a very bass-heavy sound that is great for fans of bass, but unfortunately do not feature a compatible EQ like the Sony WH-1000XM3 to customize their sound if you don’t like the extra bass. The Plantronics BackBeat Pro also aren’t as comfortable or as isolating as the Bose QuietComfort 35 II, but they’re much less expensive.

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Bose QuietControl 30: Comfortable in-ears with impressive isolation

Bose QuietControl 30

RTINGS.COM

Type: Earbuds

Enclosure: Closed-back

Wireless: Yes

If you prefer the fit and portability of earbud-type headphones but still want great isolation, get the Bose QuietControl 30. These earbuds have very good noise isolation and even more remarkable leakage performance, so you’ll never have to worry about the sound of your music bothering those around you.

The Bose QuietControl 30 are surprisingly comfortable for earbud-type headphones that isolate so well. They have a very stable fit that makes them a good choice if you find yourself frequently running to the bus stop. They have a decent sound that is balanced enough for most music genres and a good battery life of over 11 hours to keep the music going all day.

Unfortunately, their build quality is not the best, and the rubber coating around the neckband tends to peel off after only a few months of light use. The Sony WI-1000X are similar earbuds that seem better-built, but they’re less comfortable and don’t isolate as well.

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Anker SoundCore Space NC: Budget over-ears with surprisingly good isolation

Anker SoundCore Space NC

RTINGS.COM

Type: Over-ear

Enclosure: Closed-back

Wireless: Yes (can be used wired)

If noise isolation is of utmost importance to you but you can’t justify the cost of some of the more expensive noise-canceling models out there, get the Anker SoundCore Space NC. They don’t sound as good as other Bluetooth noise-canceling headphones we’ve reviewed, but they isolate noise very well for their price.

The Anker SoundCore Space NC cancel out the rumble of plane and bus engines to a good degree without leaking too much sound. Their battery is decent and fairly long-lasting, providing 21 hours of continuous playtime, but it does take nearly 3 hours to fully charge. They also have a deep, bass-heavy sound that is sure to please fans of music with intense bass.

Unfortunately, their bass-heavy sound won’t be for everyone and may disappoint fans of more vocal-centric music. They also do not have a companion app for you to use to EQ their sound if you’re not a fan of their sound profile. That said, they have the best isolation performance in this price range and are definitely worth taking a look at if you want bass-heavy headphones with competent ANC.

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This guide may have been updated. To see all measurements and the current recommendations for the best Bluetooth wireless headphones, please go here.

If you're looking for a more lightweight alternative to headphones, check out our recommendations for the best wireless earbuds for iPhones of 2019. Or, if you're looking for noise-canceling earphones to use during your morning commute, we've compiled a list of our favorites. Finally, we also have options for those looking for the best on-ear headphones of 2019.

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11 of the world’s most expensive pairs of headphones

Headphones come in all shapes and sizes, and they also come in a range of prices - you can get a perfectly decent pair for as little as £30. But you could also spend your life's savings on a pair. Whether it would be worth it is up for debate, but spending five figures on a pair of cans will surely be a talking point.

These extravagant headphones fall into the latter category. From marble chassis to diamond-coated cans, and a lot of clever sound processing in between, these are some of the most expensive headphones in the world. Any of these tickle your fancy? Time to remortgage your home.

MORE: Best headphones 2018

Focal Utopia by Tournaire – $120,000

Unveiled at CES 2017, the $120,000 Focal Utopia by Tournaire lay claim to being the world's most expensive headphones. Made by the master jewellers, they feature 18-carat gold mounted with six-carat diamonds and are handcrafted in Tournaire's workshops. A proportion of the sales will go towards saving eight-year-old Louis Biscini, who suffers from the degenerative disease spinal muscular atrophy type 1, so there's a charitable side to proceedings too. And if you're still feeling flush having bought them, why not shell out for the stand while you're at it? It's only another $12,000.

MORE: Focal Utopia by Tournaire are the world's most expensive headphones

Onkyo H900M with 20-carat diamonds – €80,000

The Focals weren't the only luxury headphones lighting up the show-floor at CES 2017 - Onkyo took its H900M cans and added 20-carat diamonds to its earcups.

But that's not all. It embedded these diamonds onto aluminium plates surrounded by a ring of highly polished stainless steel. Wondering which is the right earcup? It's the one with an extra ring of red rubies. Well, L and R letters would have just seemed churlish...

MORE: Onkyo adds 20-carat diamonds to its H900M headphones

Sennheiser Orpheus/HE 1 – £54,000

Formerly called Orpheus, the flagship Sennheiser HE-1 headphones come with their own valve amplification.

The chassis is made of Carrara marble, which is the same type Michaelangelo used for his sculptures. So it's not really hyperbole to say that they're a work of art. But not only does the marble look amazing (and we love the effect of the eight valves and control dials emerging from the slab of stone), it's also great for damping. Win-win.

The electrostatic headphones themselves are made from beautifully sculpted aluminium, leather and fine microfibre cloth. Thanks to Sennheiser's know-how, they even perform as well as they look.

MORE: Sennheiser Orpheus hands-on review

V-Moda Crossfade M-100 with 3D printed shields – $40,000

It's not the headphones themselves that cost the earth, but rather the decorative 'shields' you can add on to the earpieces. They're 3D-printed, and come in a range of materials including sterling silver, solid gold or platinum. Less expensive materials such as bronze and stainless steel are also available, but where's the fun in that? If you do opt for the pricier materials, you'd better make sure your music is up to it - no 128kbps MP3s, please.

MORE: V-Moda Crossfade M-100 review

oBravo EAMT-1s – £3699

Of course, pricey headphones don't all have to be over-ear models. These in-ears from oBravo will set you back a cool £3699. Why? It's all because of the Hybrid Dynamic AMT driver.

This is a coaxial design, combining two types of driver into a single unit. It's capable of reaching lows of 15Hz and highs of 45kHz. They also look great, thanks to their Precision-Ceramic hand-crafted body. The world's most expensive in-ears? So far, yes.

MORE: The £3699 oBravo EAMT-1s - the world's most expensive in-ear headphones?

Audeze LCD-4 – £3599

Audeze doesn't make one-off high-end headphones for fun - the company is experienced in the Art of the Expensive Cans and has the track record (and loyal customer base) to prove it. So why take the step up from the LCD-3 headphones to the LCD-4s? How about a ridiculously thin nano-grade diaphragm, and double Fluxor magnetic arrays that should mean more efficient power from less weight? Oh, then there's the snazzy new design, complete with new headband. Worth over £3k of anyone's money, surely...

MORE: Audeze launches flagship LCD-4 headphones and amp

Final Audio Design Sonorous X – £3499

Final Audio is another brand with plenty of premium headphone experience. Here, it's a combination of machined aluminium and stainless steel that makes these headphones look the business (to use a technical term). OK, so we thought the sound lacks a little drive and nuance, and they're heavy, but you can't deny they're eye-catching. They even come in a fur-lined wooden box, so keep it away from your cat.

MORE: Final Audio Design Sonorous X review

Stax SR-009 – £3495

While other headphones might add diamonds and gold to bump up the price, these cans don't need any bling - they aim to justify the high asking price on performance alone. Well-known for its high-end headphones, Stax pins the high price here on a thinner diaphragm, newly-developed electrodes and a silver-coated, high-purity copper wire in the cable. The proof can only be in the sound quality...

HiFiMan HE1000 V2 – £2599

Planar magnetic headphones always attract attention and these headphones sport a 0.001mm thin driver, which is certainly an impressive feat of engineering if nothing else. Elsewhere there's an advanced asymmetrical magnetic circuit, polyester ear cups, a new three core cable and an ergonomic design that should mean they're comfy enough to wear for hours. Which surely you will, if you spend over £2000 on them.

Shure KSE1500 – £2549

These are some of the finest in-ears we've ever heard, which puts them right up there as some of the best headphones money can buy (even at £2500+). They're some of the first in-ears to use electrostatic drivers, which means a more detailed and accurate sound. Sure, it means you have to use a dedicated headphone amplifier. But once you try them you'll be sold.

MORE: Shure KSE1500 review

Grado PS1000e – £1595

"The finest headphone Grado has ever produced" is the claim. And that's some claim, considering the impressive reviews and Awards that Grado has collected over the years. Part of the Grado Professional Series, which has recently been updated (along with a host of other models) as part of the e Series, the company takes attention to detail to the next level. Every single component was selected with care, right down to the glue. Tone-wood clad with metal alloy gives them their distinctive design, and aims to reduce ringing and distortion. And how many other headphones feature hand-crafted mahogany? If they're better than the PS1000 headphones, we'll be very happy.

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Top 10 Best Headphone Brands in the World

There are hundreds of headphones in the market, manufactured by companies both big and small. Which brand is really worth your time and money? In this list, we rank 10 of the best headphone brands in the world, based on customer feedback, expert reviews, and overall product quality.1. Sennheiser

Founded in 1945 by Fritz Sennheiser, Sennheiser is a German manufacturer of audio equipment, which includes headphones and microphones. Because it offers a wide range of headphones catering to different kinds of people, Sennheiser is one of the most popular and accessible brands.

Recording artists, disc jockeys, musicians, and gamers all know about Sennheiser, a testament to the unparalleled quality of the headphones the company produces. From low-end headphones to high-end headphones, Sennheiser keeps the quality remarkably consistent, ensuring that customers always get their money’s value.

SENNHEISER

2. Audio-Technica

Audio-Technica is one of the most well-known audio equipment manufacturers in the world. It was founded by Hideo Matsushita in 1962, making it one of the relatively younger brands on this list. It is an award-winning company with an impressive track record when it comes to headphones.

Audio-Technica offers a selection of budget-friendly, mid-range, and high-end headphones. The Japanese company makes it a point to produce nothing but the best-sounding and most comfortable pair of cans for both professionals and consumers. It’s impossible to truly single out one particular model, but the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a strong candidate for the best of the bunch.

AUDIO-TECHNICA

3. Beyerdynamic

Many would argue that Beyerdynamic should have been at the top of the list – and we can’t really blame them because Beyerdynamic really makes a hard case as the best of them all. Founded in 1942 in Berlin, Germany, Beyerdynamic specializes in different kinds of headphones, which include high fidelity headphones, in-ear headphones, studio headphones, and mobile headphones.

Beyerdynamic offers an impressive selection of headphones for both professional and personal use, with the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro sitting pretty as the cream of the crop. All Beyerdynamic headphones boast superb sound quality and build, which soundly justify the expensive price tags they come with.

BEYERDYNAMIC

4. Shure

Shure is a popular brand among professionals, offering an outstanding roster of premium quality headphones that can easily impress sound engineers, disc jockeys, and music lovers. It was founded in Chicago, Illinois by Sidney Shure in 1925. However, the company only dabbled in over-ear headphones in 2009.

Shure is one of the best in the business when it comes to sound quality, making it a popular choice among audiophiles who want nothing but the best for their ears. However, the 92-year-old brand is also known for being one of the most expensive, with some in-ear headphone models easily sailing past $100. But with Shure, you definitely get what you pay for.

SHURE

5. Grado

Sometimes, a company is so good at creating products that it rarely needs big-budget marketing campaigns to get the word out, simply allowing the actual product to do all the talking. Grado is one such company, regularly eschewing traditional advertising methods in favor of word-of-mouth marketing.

Grado is an American audio equipment manufacturer based in Brooklyn, New York, founded by master watchmaker Joseph Grado in 1953. Grado is known for producing some of the more high-end (read: expensive) headphones in the market, though the company also has a good lineup of models under $100.

GRADO

6. Bose

Founded in 1964 by Amar Bose, Bose is one of the first brands people think of when talking about expensive or overpriced headphones. And make no mistake, Bose products can be ridiculously expensive, discouraging many consumers from even picking up a box with “Bose” slapped on it.

Bose is highly regarded when it comes to noise-canceling headphones, making the company the go-to brand for those working in aviation or aeronautics. That’s probably all you need to know about the company’s reputation in the noise-canceling headphones department. The Bose QuietComfort 35 comfortably sits as one of the top three noise-canceling headphones available in the market.

BOSE

7. AKG

Based in Vienna, Austria, AKG is a manufacturer of audio equipment for both professional and personal use. It is now owned by Samsung after the South Korean electronics giant bought Harman, AKG’s parent company, in 2016.

AKG is best known for producing top-notch open-back headphones, which is unsurprising considering the company created the AKG K50, the world’s first ever supra-aural and open-back pair of cans, way back in 1959. AKG is a well-respected company, boasting a solid selection of headphones ranging from budget-friendly to bank-breaking, with the AKG K702 being the perfect example of what the company brings to the table.

AKG

8. Sony

Sony is easily the most recognizable name here. Founded in 1946, Sony offers a wide selection of headphones, many of which sit on the affordable side. Led by notable models such as the Sony MDR7506 and Sony MDRZX110, the Japanese company caters to both audiophiles and casuals.

Sony gets excellent marks when it comes to sound quality, though not on the same level as the top-tier brands above. It also offers a nice range of stylish headphones. But what really sets it apart from most of the competition is being consistent with the product quality.

SONY

9. Panasonic

Founded in Osaka, Japan in 1918, Panasonic is one of the biggest electronics manufacturing company in the world. It is a chief rival to other Japanese companies in the same business such as Sony and Toshiba.

Panasonic isn’t exactly the most popular brand when it comes to headphones. Most people hardly even mention it. Panasonic is best known for producing high-quality and affordable in-ear headphones, which typically come in colorful variations to appeal to a wider audience. Heck, even the Panasonic RP-HTX7, arguably the company’s best representative in the over-ear category, comes in seven different colors.

PANASONIC

10. Philips

Capping off the list is Philips, another easily recognized brand. Founded in 1891 by father-and-son duo Frederik and Gerard Philips, Philips is a Dutch company with a reputation for having produced innovative and groundbreaking electronics for over 100 years. People don’t immediately think of Philips when talking about headphones, mainly because it is more represented in home appliances and lighting.

Philips prefers to keep it simple, focusing more on function over style. The Dutch company offers a solid lineup of cans aimed at both audiophiles and non-audiophiles, with the Philips SHP9500 right there at the top when it comes to offering the best value.

PHILLIPS

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Mackie MC-150

Studio Headphones

Circumaural

Precise 50 mm drivers deliver outstanding transparency across the entire frequency spectrum

Amplified bass reproduction accurately reproduces low and very low frequencies, so that individual bass notes or kick drums can be heard very well

A soft padded and adjustable headband and comfortable ear cushions provide an ergonomic fit for hours of comfort, while providing optimal bass response and cushioning for outside noise

Robust and durable design meets all requirements

Collapsible for easy and space saving storage

Ideal for: Studio Monitoring, DJs, Field Recording, Personal Listening and much more

Removable and straight cable with lockable bayonet connector

Frequency response: 15 - 20000 Hz

Impedance: 32 Ohms

Driver: 50 mm

Sensitivity: 86 dB

Exchangeable earpads

15° Swivel joint

Cable length: 3 m

Weight: 265 g

Includes gold-plated 6.3 mm adapter and carrying case

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Shure SRH840

Reference Recording and Live Headphones

Closed-back

Circumaural

Dynamic

Neodymium magnet

Nominal impedance: 44 Ohm

Max. input level: 1000 mW

Frequency response: 5 - 25 000 Hz

SPL: 102 dBV

Folding head band

Single sided cable connector

3 m long, detachable spiral cable

Weight with cable: 448 g

Weight without cable: 376 g

Incl. 3.5 mm screw-on jack adapter, replacement ear pads and travel bag

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AKG K-371

Studio headphones

For studio, stage and on the road

Closed

Circumaural

Titanium coated 50 mm driver

Impedance: 32 Ohm

Sensitivity: 114 dB SPL/ V

Transmission range: 5 - 40000 Hz

High external sound-proofing

Automatic ironing banding system

Innovative folding mechanism

Oval leatherette ear cushions

Single-sided cable routing

Foldable

Weight: 255 g

Includes 2 straight cables (3 m and 1.2 m long) and a 3 m spiral cable, 6.3 mm adapter and storage bag