The Best Audiophile Headphones Under $1000

What to consider when buying:

- Type of headphones (open back/closed back)
- Driver size and type
- Frequency response range
- Impedance
- Comfort and fit
- Brand reputation and customer support
- Wired or wireless connectivity
- Additional features (noise-cancellation, microphone, etc.)

Winner: Sennheiser HD 660 S

‍

Buy Now on Amazon

Review ratings:
- Amazon: 4.7 stars (45 ratings)
- BH Photo: 5 stars (16 ratings)
- BestBuy: 4.8 stars (41 ratings)
Suggested retail price: $499.95

Important specs:

- Open-back design
- 38 mm transducers with high-quality aluminum voice coils
- Frequency response range of 10 Hz to 41 kHz
- Impedance of 150 ohms
- Detachable 3 m cable with 6.35 mm connector
‍

Why it's recommended: The Sennheiser HD 660 S is praised for its high-end audio quality and comfort. Its open-back design provides natural and clear sound while the aluminum-coated voice coils minimize distortion. Its impedance of 150 ohms requires a powerful amp to reach maximum potential. Perfect for audiophiles looking for a top-quality wired headphone.

Runner-up: Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO

‍

Buy Now on Amazon

Review ratings:
- Amazon: 4.6 stars (211 ratings)
- BH Photo: 5 stars (14 ratings)
- BestBuy: 4.8 stars (6 ratings)
Suggested retail price: $599.00

Important specs:

- Open-back design
- 45 mm dynamic Tesla neodymium drivers
- Frequency response range of 5 Hz to 40 kHz
- Impedance of 250 ohms
- Detachable 3 m cable with 3.5 mm and 6.35 mm connectors
‍

Why it's recommended: The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO is known for its exceptional audio quality and build quality. Its dynamic Tesla neodymium drivers deliver a detailed and accurate sound with minimal distortion. Its impedance of 250 ohms also requires a powerful amp for optimal performance. Perfect for audiophiles who value build quality and sonic precision.

Also great: Audio-Technica ATH-R70x

‍

Buy Now on Amazon

Review ratings:
- Amazon: 4.6 stars (236 ratings)
- BH Photo: 5 stars (51 ratings)
- BestBuy: 4.8 stars (15 ratings)
Suggested retail price: $349.00

Important specs:

- Open-back design
- 45 mm proprietary drivers with pure alloy magnetic circuitry
- Frequency response range of 5 Hz to 40 kHz
- Impedance of 470 ohms
- Detachable 3 m cable with 3.5 mm and 6.35 mm connectors
‍

Why it's recommended: The Audio-Technica ATH-R70x is praised for its balanced and transparent sound with minimal coloration. Its unique pure alloy magnetic circuitry in the 45 mm drivers delivers a precise and clear sound. Its impedance of 470 ohms also requires a powerful amp for maximum performance. Perfect for audiophiles looking for a well-rounded and affordable open-back headphone.