The invention of the headphone revolutionized audio entertainment dramatically although it was first created for telephony and radio purposes in its early days. A device that allows individuals to listen to their favorite songs almost anytime, anywhere, and without worrying about bothering the people around them, headphones certainly changed the way we enjoyed music.
But not all headphones are created equal. While all modern headphones are created to serve a solitary purpose and that is to bring music to our ears without compromising comfort, mobility, and invading other people’s audible range, some are just a whole lot better than the others. Super bass, noise cancellation, Bluetooth connectivity, crisp sound. These are just some of the premium options a lot of people want their headphones to deliver. But premium options are features you won’t find in cheap headphones.
And if money is not an issue and you want the top of the line headphones, then check out the 10 most expensive headphones available in the market today.
#10 Audio-Technica ATH-W5000 ($1,200)
The Audio-Technica ATH-W5000 is everything you want in high end headphones and more. On top of the outstanding audio qualities and trendy, modern aesthetics, this expensive gadget’s value also stems from its magnesium-alloy frame and 8N-OFC (oxygen free copper) voice coils. Most people won’t know what that means but they sound good, both figuratively and literally.
#9 Hifiman HE 6 ($1,299)
A lot of audio junkies would fall for the Hifiman HE 6 at the first glance. For the common people, this headphone is nothing more than just another audio device. But for those who know their instruments and devices, they would easily spot the headphone’s two distinguishable features. The Hifiman HE 6 showcases and open-back design and uses a planar magnetic structure, which makes the headset spew sounds naturally. As gadget reviewer Steve Guttenberg of CNet.com pointed out, “It’s as close to “being there” as I’ve heard from headphones.”
#8 JH Audio JH16 Pro ($1,149+Custom Ear Molds)
While the base price of the JH Audio JH16 Pro is considerably lower compared to the lowest-priced headphone on this list, the required customizations for this device makes it a pricey gadget. The JH Audio JH16 Pro is built to fit your ears, which would require ear molds. Owning this headphone is like having something that is truly designed for you. Another thing that makes this headphone expensive? Each piece has 8 internal drivers.
#7 Beyerdynamic T1 ($1,399)
Open-back headphones that use traditional drivers, the Beyerdynamic T1 boasts a technologically advanced construct inside. Each earpiece is rigged with Tesla-based technology, which Beyer describes as “Completely re-engineered transducers (drivers) based on a neodymium ring magnet with optimized magnetic field characteristics.” That may sound geeky and too technical but the end result is something all people could understand. This headphone, together with other models with similar technology, can produce crisp, clear, sound and powerful dynamics.
#6 Sennheiser HD800 ($1,500)
It’s quite hard to imagine a list of expensive headphones without Sennheiser making an entry. It seems the company is making its move on every niche and producing quality headphones even at the high end level. And they did just that with the Sennheiser HD800. This particular model is massive and the sound it makes also generates the same description. Boasting the biggest transducers ever used in headphones, one simply can expect nothing but loud, clear sound from those speakers.
#5 Grado PS1000 ($1,695)
While most expensive headphones today flaunt distinctive and edgy designs to make them more visually appealing, the Grado PS1000 intends to shy away from being flashy by implementing an old school look. And it works perfectly. This model has no flash but throws an all-business, straight up attitude that you want in a headphone. And unsurprisingly, the Grado PS1000 delivers the goods.
#4 Audeze LCD-3 ($1,945)
Audeze produces top quality headphones and has been consistent with what they bring to the table. And nothing represents Audeze better than the LCD-3 model. The open-back headphone can perform at par with its contemporaries, thanks to its internal construction that includes planar magnetic drivers. Overall, this product offers a unique audio experience that makes you want to just lie down and listen to your playlist all day long.
#3 Stax SR-009 ($4,450)
While the Stax SR-009 does not parade a very appealing design from a visual standpoint, it is nonetheless one of the best high end headphones produced ever. Remember an old saying about books and their covers? That adage applies aptly to this specific model. If you care to go past beyond what you see, you will know that the SR-009 from Stax is a solid performer. Inside, one will find that the SR-009 utilizes electrostatic drivers. While they function similarly to planar magnetic drivers, the construction of the SR-009 is much more intricate as the diaphragm is suspended in electrostatic field instead of being embedded in thin film. This structure allows the SR-009 to produce sounds that experts described as “deep”, “pure”, and “beautiful”.
#2 Ultrasone Edition 5 ($4,999)
Another popular name in the audiophiles’ circles, Ultrasone could easily occupy three or four spots on this list as the company is known for high end as well as ultra expensive headphones. The new Edition 5 are slated for release next month but the clamor for the model has been very high. Priced at nearly $5,000, this model boasts titanium-coated 40 mm drivers, bog oak with a seven-layer varnish finish, and plush Ethiopian sheep leather. More than just top quality sound, you get a piece of luxury as well.
#1 Abyss AB-1266 ($5,495)
Crafted using solid aluminum and implementing planar magnetic technology, the Abyss AB-1266 is the top resident of the Mt. Olympus of high end and pricey headphones. Aside from high grade aluminum, this device also made excellent use of carbon steel for its front baffle and lambskin pads for cushion. But going past these premium elements, the Abyss AB-1266 produces headphone sound no other brands can parallel. As CNET tester Steve Guttenberg points out, “it outruns the competition in every way I evaluate headphone sound.”
How to choose the right headphones for your needs?
Choosing the right headphones is crucial for an optimal listening experience. Here’s how to find the perfect pair that suits your preferences and lifestyle:
- Identify Your Primary Use: Determine how you plan to use the headphones. Are you listening to music at home, commuting, working out, or gaming? Different activities require different features, like noise cancellation for travel or sweat resistance for workouts.
- Consider Sound Quality: Pay attention to sound profiles. Do you prefer bass-heavy sounds, balanced audio, or clarity in vocals? High-end headphones often provide customizable sound settings, so consider models that allow you to adjust audio profiles.
- Choose the Right Type: Decide between over-ear, on-ear, or in-ear headphones. Over-ear headphones offer superior sound quality and comfort, while in-ear models are more portable. On-ear headphones provide a middle ground but may not isolate noise as well.
- Check Connectivity Options: Consider whether you prefer wired or wireless headphones. Wireless models provide convenience and mobility but check battery life and Bluetooth range. Wired headphones often offer better sound quality and no need for charging.
- Look for Comfort and Fit: Ensure the headphones are comfortable for extended periods. Look for adjustable headbands, cushioned ear cups, and lightweight designs. Trying them on, if possible, can help find the best fit.
- Set Your Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend. High-end headphones can be a significant investment, but great options are available at various price points. Focus on models that offer the best value for your budget.
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Here I am trying to justify myself if I spent too much on my Sony bluetooth headset with active noise cancelling and ambient sound mode. I am surprise mine didn’t even make the list. Admittedly I felt a bit uneasy letting myself spent that much at the time since I usually use the crappy and cheapest one. When I looked again, I didn’t really need to have a headset before and I rarely use it. Now I do. I just felt uneasy because it is my first expensive one I bought.
A lot of them, I haven’t heard the brands before let alone model. To be exact, I only heard of Sennheiser brand on this list regardless of the model.
I am surprised that Sony and Share didn't make the list, I am not surprised that AKG did not. I am surprised that Ultrasone didn't take the #1 spot, but I'd never heard of Abyss.
Well... my friend owns 2 of the Sony MDR-R10's and he said one of this units costs an average $10 to $15k, but has been discontinued from Sony long time ago.. and he says this Sony sounds better than the Sennheiser HE1, unreal!
Sennheisers actually have the most expensive headphones in the world. The Sennheisers Orpheus cost a total of $50,000. This headphones look very clean and are made of real gold.
This list is missing something rather important or is probably out of date! The most expensive headphones in the world are Sennheiser's Orpheus and cost around $55k!
While I won't be buying these headphones anytime soon, I think they're worth it if you're a music lover or in sound recording. These are definitely superior than the $30 Apple headsets. They have added features like noise cancelling, in good material, and offers superior sound quality. The last is a bit subjective, though, since sound quality is also dependent on your ear structure.
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