Are you a pro gamer and looking for the best audiophile gaming headphones?
High-quality audio is important to enjoy a game to the fullest. As a devoted gamer, you definitely give close attention to the sound quality.
Therefore, I’m here today to share my reviews of the ten best audiophile headphones for gaming. It will help you to learn about them and compare the qualities.
When I made this list, my primary concern was the features of the headphones.
So, currently, if you are planning to buy an audiophile gaming headphone, this write-up will help you decide.
Now, get ready to go through the article and explore the top headsets one by one.
List: 10 Best Audiophile Headphones For Gaming
In the very beginning, let’s take a quick look at my listed top 10 headphones. Here I’m going to give an overview and my ratings for these headphones.
Name | Overview | Our Ratings | Details |
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Top Recommendation Audio-Technica ATH-AG1X Closed Back High-Fidelity Gaming Headset |
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Best Choice For PC Gamers JBL Quantum 600 |
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Overall Good Features Sennheiser HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones |
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Ideal For Budget Beyerdynamic DT 990 Premium Edition 250 Ohm |
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Perfect For Bass Fostex T50RP MK3 |
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Top-Notch Build Quality HyperX Cloud Alpha S – PC Gaming Headset |
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Widely Compatible Headset EPOS I Sennheiser GAME ONE Gaming Headset |
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Exceptional Comfortability Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones |
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Best For Sound Philips Audio SHP9500 HiFi Precision Stereo |
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Most Affordable HUHD Wireless Gaming Headset |
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These quick facts are indeed not enough to make a decision. But don’t worry about it.
I will explain the features of these headphones one by one.
You will also see their key specs, pros, and cons.
So let’s start with my top recommendation.
1. Top Recommendation: Audio-Technica ATH-AG1X Closed Back High-Fidelity Gaming Headset
The famous Audio Technica developed the ATH-AG1X as a true gaming headset. From comfortability to compatibility, everything is excellent about these headphones.
And that’s why I keep this headphone as my top recommendation.
See the key specs of ATH-AG1X in the following segment.
Key Specifications
- Style: closed-back, over-ear.
- Color: Black/ Red.
- Driver Diameter: 53 mm.
- Maximum Input Power: 1000 mW.
- Sensitivity: 100 dB/mW.
- Cable Length: 1.2 m.
- Connector: 3.5 mm.
- Microphone Type: Condenser.
- Microphone Sensitivity: -41 dB.
- Microphone Frequency Response: 100 Hz-12 kHz.
- Microphone Polar Pattern: Supercardioid.
- Accessories Included: 2.0 m extension cable, windscreen.
There is no doubt that Audio Technica is one of the famous brands for developing high-quality audiophiles headphones. ATH-AG1X is not an exception.
Moreover, this headphone is developed especially for gaming purposes. As a result, every audiophile gamer will love this.
ATH-AG1X is the perfect headphone that can stop the audiophile headphones vs. gaming headset war.
The ATH-AG1X comes with a built-in microphone that allows crystal clear voice communication. And the mic includes an optional but huge windshield that resists the wind and breathing noise.
In addition, the cable contains a simple volume control or microphone mute control switch. Thus, you can control the headset easily with one hand.
Pros
- Compatible with PS4, Xbox, PC, and others.
- Easy to control.
- Delivers deep, resonating bass.
- Provides long time wearing comfort.
Cons
- The connection cable could be better.
ATH-AG1X is one of the best HiFi gaming headsets. With a beautiful design, the headphones are capable enough to meet every gaming needs of audiophiles.
Now, I am going to discuss the next headphone on the list.
2. Best Choice For PC Gamers: JBL Quantum 600
JBL Quantum 600 is a premium headphone that is designed for high-end games.
Their wireless connection is compatible with PC, PlayStation, Mac, and VR, and you can use the wired connection with any gaming platform that supports a 3.5 mm jack.
Are you curious to know about the key specs of these headphones? Take a look below.
Key Specifications
- Driver Size: 50 mm.
- Form Factor: Over-ear.
- Color: Black.
- Sensitivity: 100 dB.
- Sound Pressure Level: 97 dB.
- Maximum Input Power: 30 mW.
- Wireless Connectivity: 2.4 GHz wireless.
- 2.4G Wireless Transmitter Power: <4 dBm.
- 2.4G Wireless Modulation: π/4-DQPSK.
- 2.4G Wireless Carrier Frequency: 2403.35 MHz – 2479.35 MHz.
- Wired Connection: 3.5 mm input.
- Battery Type: Lithium-polymer.
- Battery Capacity: 300 mAh.
- Battery Life: Max 14 hours.
- Charging Time: 2 hours.
- Charging Cable: USBType-C to Type-A.
- Product Dimension: 9.06 x 4.33 x 9.65 inches.
- Microphone Type: Flip-up boom microphone.
- Mic Pickup Pattern: Unidirectional.
- Microphone Frequency Response: 100 Hz – 10 kHz.
The notable fact of these headphones is their sound feature. The JBL Quantum Surround sound technology delivers fully integrated sound.
Because of this, you will be able to spot and hear the sound of the exact place of your enemies.
I’ve played the Battlefield Games wearing this headphone. And the pleasure was just out of the world.
The boom microphone of this headphone is another outstanding feature that should be mentioned. The microphones come with echo cancelling technology.
You can flip up the microphone and mute it when voice chat is unnecessary.
Not only gaming, the mic comes in handy for online meetings too. It provides exceptional voice quality in Zoom, Skype, and other platforms.
Pros
- Versatility.
- Amazing audio quality.
- Surround sound technology.
- Crystal clear quality microphone.
Cons
- Long charging time.
Overall, this headphone is an excellent audiophile headset with a mic. The high-resolution audio will meet all your gaming purposes.
And watching movies from your laptop or tablet will be fun too!
Now, brace yourself because I’m going to reveal my next option.
3. Overall Good Features: Sennheiser HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones
Sennheiser HD 560 S is perfect for gamers who love a wide soundstage. The headphones feature E.A.R angled transducer to provide an exclusive listening experience.
You can enjoy a deep and precise bass response with a clear treble.
The specs of this headphone are as follows.
Key Specifications
- Style: over-ear, open-back headphone.
- Color: Black.
- Sound pressure level: 110 dB.
- Jack size: 6.35 mm with 3.5 mm adapter.
- Earpad material: Velour.
- Cable length: 3 m (detachable).
- Transducer Principle: Dynamic.
In the case of comfortability, Sennheiser HD 560 S is undoubtedly a leading headphone. The velour earpads and the moderate padding on the headband make it convenient.
Despite the look, it is more lightweight, and the detachable cable makes it easy to carry with you.
Sennheiser HD 560 S will reveal every detail of your music.
Moreover, as an open-back headphone, it has a wider soundstage than JBL Quantum 600.
Pros
- Well-balanced sound.
- Comfortable wearing.
- Excellent stereo sound.
- Good stability.
Cons
- No mic included.
- Sound leakage.
This headphone is a great fit for single-player gaming. You can enjoy an impressive, well-balanced sound with convenience.
I’m going to discuss the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Premium Edition 250 Ohm right now..
4. Ideal For Budget: Beyerdynamic DT 990 Premium Edition 250 Ohm
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Edition has gained popularity since the 1980s. The headphone is a popular choice for many passionate music lovers.
Besides, the headphone successfully makes a mark in the gaming industry too.
The frequency response of DT 990 Premium Edition 250 Ohm is 5Hz – 35 kHz. Therefore, it allows you to enjoy music from different music genres.
Especially if your game contains rock and pop background music, you will surely enjoy them a lot.
However, if you want to know the key specs of these famous headphones, take your eyes below.
Key Specifications
- Style: over-ear, open-back headphone.
- Color: Gray, Black.
- Nominal Sound Pressure Level: 96 dB.
- Cable Length: 2.5 meters (Straight).
- Connector: 3.5 mm.
- Jack Adapter: 6.35 mm.
- Operating principle: Semi-open.
The headphone comes with a soft carrying pouch. But like the previously mentioned Sennheiser HD 560 S, the cable of these headphones is not removable.
So, it’s not easy to carry them with you.
Since you will use it as an audiophile gaming headset, portability is not a big issue here.
Another satisfactory matter is, Beyerdynamic headphones come with two years of warranty.
Their customer care is also impressive. You can contact them for any of your queries.
Pros
- Excellent soundstage.
- Comfortable in extended use.
- Remarkable sound.
- Stylish design.
- All components are replaceable.
Cons
- Poor noise cancellation.
- No built-in mic.
You might be anxious about the fact that DT 990 does not offer any noise cancellation feature. But since gaming is indoor work, blocking outside noise is probably a minor need for you.
Yet, if you really need the noise-canceling feature, you can look at my previous article about the 10 best noise-canceling headphones.
DT 990 is basically one of the best Beyerdynamic for gaming. Playing games with high-definition background music becomes enjoyable with these headphones.
Now, know about the fifth headphone on the list.
5. Perfect For Bass: Fostex T50RP MK3
Fostex T50RP MK3 is one of the famous orthodynamic headphones. It provides a smooth and deep sound. That’s why it’s great for close monitoring.
But remember, you need a headphone amp if you wish for outstanding performance from this headphone.
So, if you already have an amp or don’t mind buying a new one, this headphone will definitely be worth the budget for you.
Check out the key specs.
Key Specifications
- Style: over-ear, semi-open headphone.
- Color: Black.
- Sensitivity: 92 dB.
- Maximum Input Power: 3000 mW.
- Cable Length: 3 m Streeo Phone and 1.2 m Stereo Mini (both detachable).
- Driver: Regular Phase or Orthodynamic.
One of the notable drawbacks of these headphones is, they are not very comfortable. You can’t wear them for a long time.
For comfortability, Beyerdynamic DT 990 Premium Edition 250 Ohm or Sennheiser HD 560 S are the best options.
However, the Fostex T50RP MK3 is special in its own way.
The main features of the RP series are the Regular Phrase diaphragm diver. They are made of copper foil etched polyimide film and a neodymium magnet.
This unique style driver is designed for achieving sharper audio reproduction.
Pros
- Smooth and well-balanced sound.
- Detachable cable.
Cons
- Can’t produce a loud sound from a low-powered source.
That’s all about the Fostex T50RP MK3, one of the premier headphones for gaming.
Well, we have finished talking about half of the headphones. Just continue the reading to know the details of the other half.
This time I will let you know about an inexpensive headphone. Catch a glimpse of Hyperx Cloud Alpha S in the following segment.
6. Top-Notch Build Quality: HyperX Cloud Alpha S – PC Gaming Headset
HyperX Cloud Alpha S is another cool-looking over-ear headphone that is developed to fulfill gaming requirements.
The headphones come with wired technology with a great controlling feature.
Now, I’m going to enlighten you about the key specs of these headphones.
Key Specifications
- Style: closed-back, circumaural over-ear headset.
- Color: Blue, Red, Blackout.
- Driver Diameter: 50 mm.
- Sound Pressure Level: 99 dB/ mW.
- Weight: 321 g (mic included).
- Cable Length: 1 meter.
- Connection Type: 3.5 mm plug.
- Microphone Element: Electret condenser microphone.
- Microphone Polar Pattern: Bi-directional.
- Microphone Frequency Response: 50 Hz-18 kHz.
- Microphone Sensitivity: -38 dBV.
This headphone is an excellent choice for PC gamers. However, they are also compatible with Nintendo, PlayStation 4, etc.
They have a wider frequency range than Fostex T50RP MK3
HyperX Cloud Alpha S comes with leatherette ear cushions that are eight times more breathable.
But the charms of these headphones remain in another place. Luckily, they include an external USB sound card that contains a controlling remote.
The controller will let you mute the mic, adjust volume, and turn on the virtual 7.1 surround sound mode. You can also mix the volume of your voice chat and game.
Here are the pros and cons of these headsets.
Pros
- Game and chat balancing feature.
- Detachable noise-canceling mic.
- Superb built quality.
- Comfortable for an extended session.
Cons
- Average Sound quality.
As a whole, the features of these affordable headphones are totally worth the money.
Let’s see what the EPOS I Sennheiser GAME ONE Gaming Headset offers us.
7. Widely Compatible Headset: EPOS I Sennheiser GAME ONE Gaming Headset
These headphones are best for gamers who are looking for a reasonably priced gaming headset.
The specialty of EPOS I Sennheiser GAME ONE Gaming Headset is, it’s very lightweight. Therefore, you can use it for a long period without feeling any nuisance.
EPOS I Sennheiser GAME ONE Gaming Headset is built with a classic slim silhouette and lightweight design.
Now, look into the key specs.
Key Specifications
- Style: Around-Ear.
- Color: Black.
- Transducer Principle: Dynamic Open.
- Cable Length: 118.11 inches.
- Microphone: Flip-up Boom Mic.
- Compatibility: XboxOne, Xbox SeriesX, PCSoftphone, Switch, PS4, MacOSX, PS5.
EPOS I Sennheiser does not provide a surround sound like Hyperx Cloud Alpha S. Besides, the microphone feature is also not that good.
However, you can get a good control system with these headphones. They come with a built-in volume controller in the right ear cup.
So, volume adjustment is so easy.
Moreover, GAME ONE headphone contains exchangeable cables that allow compatibility with multiple platforms. You can connect them with PC, Mac, Consoles, mobiles, and other devices that carry a 3.5 mm input jack.
Pros
- Good audio quality.
- Classics look.
- Durable and Comfortable design.
- Great compatibility.
Cons
- Mic quality is not good.
In general, the GAME ONE headset is ideal for any gamers who want open acoustic sound with versatility.
Our next headphone is Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X. This time, I’ll tell you the details of it.
8. Exceptional Comfortability: Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones
Perfect mid is an absolute necessity for a high-quality gaming experience.
ATH-AD700X is developed, focusing on mid-performance. However, the low and treble range also provides a good sound quality.
Now, pay attention to the key specs of these headphones.
Key Specifications
- Type: Open-ear Dynamic.
- Color: Black.
- Driver Diameter: 53 mm.
- Cable Length: 3.0 m.
- Connector: 3.5 mm.
- Adapter: 6.3 mm.
- Maximum input power: 700 mW.
- Sensitivity: 100 dB.
Previously, we have seen that Audio-Technica ATH-AG1X comes with a microphone. But unfortunately the ATH-AD700X does not have a microphone. Therefore, you can’t do two-way communication with it.
However, ATH-AD700X is best for its design and sound profile.
It is a very professional-looking open-air headphone. The earcups are built with a light honeycomb aluminum casing, which makes them durable enough.
The headphone will also give you a long-time wearing comfort with a natural listening option.
Moreover, the new 53mm drivers with bobbin-wound CCAW voice coils provide superb power handling. It also produces clear treble and mid-range.
The 3D wing support makes the headphone adjustable for people of different head sizes.
Ultimately, if your game doesn’t need voice chatting, this headphone will ensure a luxurious quality.
Pros
- Lightweight.
- Strong build quality.
- Comfortable to wear.
- Adjustable.
- Clear and natural sound.
Cons
- No noise-canceling feature.
- No mic.
In a word, ATH-AD700X headphones are best for critical indoor listening. They will ensure an above-average sound perception.
Let’s move on to our next headphone.
9. Best For Sound: Philips Audio SHP9500 HiFi Precision Stereo
If you want great sound without a headphone amplifier, there is no better option than the Philips Audio SHP9500.
The headphone works with a very low impedance. For this reason, you can enjoy higher sound transparency and frequency.
Explore the key specification below.
Key Specifications
- Style: over-ear headphone.
- Color: Black.
- Acoustic System: Open.
- Magnet type: Neodymium.
- Maximum Power Input: 200 mW.
- Sensitivity: 101 dB.
- Speaker Diameter: 50 mm.
- Cable Length: 3 meters (detachable).
- Adapter Plug: 3.5 mm – 6.3 mm.
As you see, this headphone contains a detachable cable that is supposed to make it easy to carry. But unfortunately, it doesn’t come with a carrying pouch.
We have seen that Beyerdynamic DT 990 Premium Edition 250 Ohm and almost all headphones come with carrying equipment. Sadly, the Philips Audio SHP9500 is different in this case.
Overlooking the portability issue, we must say these headphones are exceptional for indoor listening. You can enjoy high-precision sound because of the 50 mm speaker driver.
The steel headband also ensures the stability and durability of this headphone.
Pros
- Budget-friendly.
- Robust design.
- Great audio quality.
- Good comfortability.
Cons
- Leaks a lot.
These headphones are simply a perfect match for low-powered devices.
We have almost come to the end of our discussion. There is only one left to talk about.
So, let’s see what our last item offers.
10. Most Affordable: HUHD Wireless Gaming Headset
The last headphone I’m going to discuss today is the HUHD Wireless Gaming Headset. It’s the lowest-priced one on our list.
This wireless headset offers 7.1 surround sound and strong bass with a 180-degree rotated microphone.
I’m going to mention the key specs of this headset now.
Key Specifications
- Color: Black.
- Wireless Communication Technology: 2.4G.
- Charging Time: 10 Hours.
- Operating Time: 6 Hours.
- Microphone Sensitivity: -58 dB.
- Loudspeaker Impedance: 32 ohms.
- Loudspeaker Diameter: 40 mm.
These headsets work really well with PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, TV, etc. Along with the decent sound, you can also get long-wearing comfort.
However, it’s better not to expect a top sound quality or comfortability from them.
Obviously, you can’t get the same result as the Sennheiser HD 560 S, ATH-AD700X, or other high-budgeted headphones at this price.
Still, you can use these headsets with almost every kind of gaming device. You will also get a 180-degree portable microphone with a flip-up mute function.
Within this budget, the headset doesn’t offer any less.
Pros
- Very affordable.
- Wireless technology.
- Good compatibility.
- Excellent battery life.
Cons
- Poor microphone features.
Overall, the HUHD Wireless Gaming Headset is capable enough to meet all your basic gaming needs.
So finally, we have reached the end of our list. All of these headphones are the best for audiophile gamers. They are unique in their own ways.
After reading the whole article, it’s possible that you still can’t decide which one to pick. But don’t worry. I have a solution for this situation.
Though I have already mentioned my top recommendation, I will tell you my other top 3 choices from the list.
Hence, I hope it will be easier for you to decide.
Best Choices
In my opinion, the following three headphones are the best.
- JBL Quantum 600
- Sennheiser HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones
- EPOS I Sennheiser GAME ONE Gaming Headset
All these three headsets are amazing with their outstanding features. Moreover, they are explicitly developed for gaming purposes.
So, select one according to your need.
But do you know what are the criteria you need to focus on before choosing the best gaming audiophile headphones?
Just keep on reading, you will find the answer.
How To Pick The Best Audiophile Gaming Headphone?
While buying an audiophile headphone for gaming, you should look into the following factors carefully.
Ensure The Sound Quality
Without any doubt, audio quality is the first thing that needs to be considered. Therefore, at first, see how the headphone sounds.
However, in my list, all of the headphones are famous for high definition audio. So, you might have a tough time while choosing one.
Check Out The Comfortability
A Gaming session usually takes hours and hours to complete. Hence, if your headset doesn’t suit you, you can’t wear it for an extended period.
Moreover, you might face headphones headaches for this.
This is why, choose a headphone by checking out the weight, materials, shape, and adjustability features.
How Is Their Durability?
Of course, you don’t want to spend hundreds of dollars on headphones that break easily.
So, examine cable and connector quality. See if the cables are detachable or not. Also check out how many days of warranty you can get.
In this way, you can be sure about the durability of a headphone before purchasing them.
See The Ear Cup Type
Basically, closed-back and open-back headphones sound different.
This is because closed-back headphones completely prevent sound leakage and provide more bass. While the open-back sounds more natural but it’s a little bit noisy.
Thus, it’s better to choose one according to your preference.
Is It Wired Or Wireless Headphones?
Many audiophiles prefer wired headphones to wireless ones for better sound quality. On the other hand, wireless headphones offer more hassle-free service.
Thus, prioritize your requirements.
Does It Have A Microphone?
Voice chatting is an important factor of a game. However, many single-player games are also available in the market where you don’t need any conversation.
For this reason, I have included both with mic and without mic headphone in my list. You can choose from them according to your needs.
After considering all these facts, you can finally go for purchasing your audiophile headphone.
Let’s conclude our discussion here.
Conclusion
By the time you have got enough information about the best audiophile headphones for gaming.
Moreover, you also learned the tips to find the suitable one for you.
Now, pick up your desired one with confidence. And obviously, remember your primary requirements.
Thank you for reading the write-up till the end.