Best Headphones for DJing

The art of DJing is often overlooked. Before I started, I honestly thought it was as easy as pressing play on a CDJ and watching the crowd go wild... anyone could do it, right? I didn’t realise the complexity of accurately beat matching, especially in a club setting. The time and effort it takes to build a standout set, meticulously select the tracks, and then read the crowd's response to said tracks and find interesting and exciting ways of mixing the setlist to keep the audiences attention—everything that goes into performing and writing a GOOD DJ set is pretty hard work.

When it comes to playing in a club, one thing every DJ needs is their choice of headphones. This can be the difference between nailing your set and really fucking it right up. When I first started, I had a cheap pair of high street headphone. Mixing on my decks at home was fine, but once I got into a club environment, it all changed; I couldn’t hear what I was doing, I panicked, and I messed up pretty much every mix.

I knew it was time for some real headphones if I was going to be playing clubs regularly. Every DJ has their own specific favourite, so I’ve asked a selection of successful DJs and producers what their go to headphones are that make the show that little bit easier, and why they love them.

For most, durability, when being lugged around in a bag and thrown on and off whilst playing, is a must. Sound quality is an obvious checkpoint and the general look and feel can play a big part.

Samantha Bentley

The Pinoeer HDJ 2000 headphones were recommended to me by Tony Friend (Clashtone/Terror/Modestep). They are loud and clear for mixing in club settings; when I've had horrible experiences with monitors, these babies have got me through.

They are also pretty resilient. The pair I have at the moment have been everywhere with me since October 2015 and still look pretty new (and that's saying a lot, considering they are white).

They are a little on the pricey side, so not really recommended if you are just starting out and not sure if they are a sound investment just yet... I had been DJing out in clubs for almost a year when I got my first pair of expensive headphones, and had a residency and shows in the diary, plus I was producing.

I also use these headphones for my production. They aren't the BEST for producing music, but they are pretty damn good. They are also ridiculously comfortable, and don't make my ears sweat or my head hurt like headphones I have used in the past.

Tony Friend (Clashtone/Terror/Modestep)

Tony Friend is probably best known for his time with the dubstep act Modestep, that he started with his brother in 2009. Since leaving Modestep, Tony goes under the moniker "Terror," and is one quarter of drum 'n' bass collective Clashtone.

When it comes to DJing, Tony knows his shit. His first choice of headphones were the Pioneer HDJ 2000, but I told him to choose another pair as I had already said that. So he chose the Sennheiser HD 25, but Jakes and Sonny had already claimed those, sooooo these headphones are his third choice...

"These aren't technically a DJ headphone set, they are more production; but I remember using them once when I didn't have anything else. They are robust and with great clarity for mixing, they are also not too expensive for those that are looking for an affordable headset."

Mel Clarke

DJ Mel C (not to be confused with the ex-Spice Girls member) is the resident drum 'n' bass host for Data Transmission radio. She also plays pretty much every big UK drum 'n' bass night and has supported the likes of Chase & Status and Ronnie Size... She also happens to be one of my favourite humans, and is almost as awkward as me. SO, what is her choice of headphones when it comes to getting behind the decks?

"I use the AKG K181 headphones. They're reasonably priced as far as good headphones go, and great quality sound-wise. They are also super durable."

Jakes

Jakes is one of the original pioneers of the dubstep genre in both DJing and production. He has earned legend status with his unique sound and style.

"I use Sennheiser HD 25s with the coiled cable. They have stood up to the test of time. I use the coiled cable as I've seen way too many DJs drag the set up off the table."

Zoe London

Zoe is a fashion blogger and DJ from (you guessed it) London! She plays festivals and events all over the world with genres ranging from rock and metal to garage and house...

"I use the Marshall Mid Bluetooths. The sound is AMAZING and they are really tight to the ears, so when you're in a loud venue, you don't get any leakage and can hear everything you are doing. I also think they look like an actual Marshall vintage amp, which is pretty cool!

Sonny Wharton

British house and techno DJ and producer Sonny Wharton was one of the first DJs that ever gave me advice back when I started out. In addition to his solo career, he also has his own label called Whartone Records.

"Headphone-wise, I swear by the Sennheiser HD25. I've used them for about 15 years and have tried out several alternatives, but found nothing that matches the quality of sound on those for me personally. In a club environment they are so clear, and the kick really punches through, which is invaluable, especially on a big stage.”

So, the most popular choice seems to be the Sennheiser HD25s for a variety of reasons! Happy DJing!