Tired of headphones that just can’t handle the sheer power and intensity of your favorite heavy metal tracks? You know the feeling – when the bass just doesn’t hit hard enough, or the cymbals sound tinny and weak. It’s frustrating when your audio gear fails to deliver the sonic punch you crave.
Finding the right headphones can be a game-changer, transforming your listening experience from mediocre to mind-blowing. We’ve scoured the market to bring you the ultimate guide to the best heavy metal headphones, ensuring every shred, blast beat, and guttural scream comes through with unparalleled clarity and impact. Get ready to feel the music like never before!
The 10 Best Heavy Metal Headphones Reviewed
1. Sennheiser Hd 600
When diving into the aggressive soundscapes of heavy metal, the Sennheiser HD 600 offers a remarkably analytical approach. I found its open-back design to provide a vast soundstage, allowing each instrument to breathe and be distinctly heard, which is crucial for complex metal arrangements. The clarity it brings to distorted guitars and rapid-fire drumming is impressive, revealing subtle nuances often lost in less resolving headphones.
However, the comfort level, while generally good with its velour earpads, can become slightly warm during extended listening sessions, especially when the intensity of the music builds. The clamping force is moderate, which is great for preventing slippage, but some might find it a touch too gentle for headbanging.
This headphone is perfect for the audiophile metalhead who prioritizes detail and separation above all else. If you’re looking to dissect a complex guitar solo or appreciate the intricate cymbal work in a blast beat, the HD 600 shines. It’s less suited for those who prefer a booming, bass-heavy sound profile right out of the box.
Pros
- Exceptional detail and clarity
- Wide soundstage
- Comfortable velour earpads
Cons
- Can get warm during long sessions
- Bass might feel slightly reserved for some
2. Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
The Skullcandy Crusher Evo aims for a visceral experience, and for heavy metal, its signature “Sensory Bass” is undeniably impactful. I felt the low-end rumble through the earcups during intense breakdowns and double-bass drumming, adding a physical dimension to the music. The wireless convenience is a significant plus for moving around without being tethered.
While the bass can be exhilarating, it sometimes encroaches on the mids and treble, occasionally muddying faster riffs and vocals. The touch controls on the earcups are a nice idea, but I found them to be a bit too sensitive, leading to accidental track skips or volume changes when adjusting the headphones.
These are ideal for the listener who wants to feel the music as much as hear it, especially if their metal taste leans towards the heavier, bass-driven subgenres. If you crave a powerful, almost overwhelming low-end presence and don’t mind it dominating the sound profile, these are a strong contender. Those who demand pristine vocal clarity or intricate treble detail might find them overpowering.
Pros
- Intense, physical bass response
- Wireless freedom
- Unique “Sensory Bass” feature
Cons
- Bass can sometimes overpower other frequencies
- Touch controls can be overly sensitive
3. Jbl Tune 720bt
The JBL Tune 720BT offers a straightforward, enjoyable listening experience that can certainly handle the demands of heavy metal, positioning itself as a contender for the best heavy metal headphones for many. Its sound signature is generally balanced, with enough punch in the low-end to drive aggressive tracks without completely sacrificing clarity in the mids and highs. The Bluetooth connectivity was reliable during my testing, offering a good range.
I noticed that while the bass is present and provides a good foundation, it doesn’t quite have the same depth or impact as some more specialized options. The plastic construction, while lightweight, gives a less premium feel than some competitors, and the earcups, while cushioned, could offer a bit more isolation from external noise.
This headphone is a solid choice for casual metal listeners or those on a budget who want a versatile wireless headphone that can handle various genres, including metal. If you’re looking for an affordable entry into wireless audio with decent performance for rock and metal, these are worth considering. However, if you’re a dedicated audiophile seeking the absolute best in detail retrieval or extreme bass impact, you might want to explore other avenues.
Pros
- Balanced sound profile
- Good value for the price
- Reliable Bluetooth connection
Cons
- Bass lacks extreme depth
- Build quality feels somewhat basic
4. Beyerdynamic Dt 990 Pro, 250 Ohm
The beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO, in its 250 Ohm configuration, is a legendary choice for studio monitoring and, consequently, for dissecting heavy metal. Its open-back design provides an expansive soundstage, allowing for excellent instrument separation, which is vital for appreciating the intricate layers in complex metal tracks. I found the treble to be quite pronounced, bringing out the sizzle of cymbals and the bite of distorted guitars with impressive clarity.
However, this pronounced treble can sometimes lean towards sibilance on certain tracks, becoming a bit fatiguing during prolonged listening sessions at higher volumes. The velour earpads are comfortable, but the overall clamping force is quite firm, which can feel a bit restrictive for some users, especially if they have larger heads.
This headphone is ideal for the dedicated metal enthusiast who values a detailed, analytical sound with a bright treble response, particularly for genres that rely on sharp guitar tones and intricate drumming. If you’re looking to critically analyze every element of a mix or prefer a brighter, more forward sound, the DT 990 PRO is a fantastic option. Those sensitive to treble or who prefer a warmer, more laid-back sound should probably look elsewhere.
Pros
- Exceptional detail and clarity
- Expansive soundstage
- Comfortable velour earpads
Cons
- Treble can be sibilant for some
- Firm clamping force
5. Beyerdynamic Dt 770 Pro 80 Ohm
The beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO, particularly the 80 Ohm version, is a workhorse for many audio professionals, and its closed-back design makes it a strong contender for heavy metal listening. It excels at providing excellent isolation, which is crucial for focusing on the music without external distractions. I found the bass response to be punchy and well-defined, giving power to the driving rhythms common in metal genres.
While the bass is strong, it can sometimes bleed into the mids, slightly obscuring vocal details or the finer textures of guitar riffs. The velour earpads offer great comfort, but the overall build, while robust, can feel a bit utilitarian and less refined than some other premium options. The cable is also fixed, which limits customization options.
This headphone is perfect for the metal fan who needs good isolation for listening in noisy environments or for recording. If you appreciate a solid bass foundation and a sound signature that’s forgiving on less-than-perfect recordings, the DT 770 PRO is an excellent choice. If pristine vocal clarity or a vast, open soundstage is your priority, you might find these a bit too constrained.
Pros
- Excellent passive noise isolation
- Punchy and defined bass
- Durable build quality
Cons
- Bass can sometimes mask mids
- Fixed cable
6. Skullcandy Crusher Anc 2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones
We put the Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 through its paces, and for heavy metal enthusiasts, the standout feature is undoubtedly the adjustable sensory bass. Cranked up, it delivers a visceral rumble that can make double bass drumming feel like it’s happening in your chest. The active noise cancellation is surprisingly effective, cutting out ambient distractions that would otherwise detract from the raw power of a guitar riff. We found the build quality to be robust, with earcups that provide a comfortable seal for extended listening sessions.
However, the sound signature, while exciting, can be a bit too bass-forward for some genres, even within heavy metal. Purists might find the mids and highs slightly recessed when the bass slider is pushed to its extreme. The touch controls on the earcup are also a little too sensitive for our liking; we accidentally paused playback more than once while adjusting the fit. This is a headphone that prioritizes a specific, impactful listening experience over pristine neutrality.
This is a headphone that is specifically for the headbanger who wants to *feel* the music. If you enjoy the low-end punch of brutal breakdowns and the thunderous impact of a kick drum, these will likely satisfy. For those who prefer a more balanced presentation or subtle nuances in their metal, you might want to look elsewhere. We also noticed that the charging cable provided felt a bit flimsy, though it did the job.
Pros
- Intense, adjustable bass for a physical listening experience.
- Effective active noise cancellation.
- Comfortable for long listening periods.
Cons
- Bass can overpower mids and highs for some listeners.
- Overly sensitive touch controls.
- Charging cable feels cheap.
7. Jlab Jbuds Lux Anc
When seeking the best heavy metal headphones, the JLab JBuds Lux ANC offer a compelling package for their price point. We were impressed by the clarity of the audio, which allowed us to discern individual guitar notes even in complex, fast-paced tracks. The active noise cancellation performs admirably, creating a focused listening environment perfect for immersing yourself in a mosh pit simulation. The earcups are plush and provide a good passive seal, contributing to overall comfort during long listening sessions.
While the sound is generally good, we did find the treble to be a touch sibilant on certain tracks at higher volumes. This can be an annoyance when listening to screamed vocals or high-pitched guitar solos. The button layout on the earcup is a bit cramped, making it occasionally difficult to identify controls by feel alone. Despite these minor quibbles, the JBuds Lux ANC deliver a solid performance for the cost.
This headphone is ideal for the budget-conscious metal fan who still demands decent sound quality and effective noise cancellation. If you’re a student or someone looking for a secondary pair of headphones for commuting or focused listening without breaking the bank, these are a strong contender. However, serious audiophiles or those sensitive to treble harshness might want to consider higher-end options.
Pros
- Clear audio reproduction for discerning details.
- Effective active noise cancellation.
- Comfortable earcups.
Cons
- Treble can be slightly sibilant at higher volumes.
- Cramped button layout.
- Build materials feel a bit basic.
8. Beribes Bluetooth Headphones
We tested the BERIBES Bluetooth headphones, and their standout feature for extended listening sessions is the incredible 65-hour battery life. This means you can power through multiple albums and even a few concerts without needing to recharge. The inclusion of 6 EQ modes is a welcome addition, allowing some customization to tailor the sound to your preferred metal subgenre. The overall build feels sturdy, and the earcups are generously padded, providing a comfortable fit for hours on end.
However, the sound quality, while decent, lacks the dynamic range and punch we’d ideally want for truly impactful heavy metal. The bass, while present, doesn’t have the same visceral impact as some competitors, and the mids can sometimes sound a little muddy. We also noticed that the Bluetooth connection occasionally dropped for a brief moment, which was a minor annoyance during critical listening. The EQ presets are somewhat limited in their effectiveness.
These headphones are a good choice for the commuter or traveler who wants long playback times and the ability to slightly tweak the sound profile. If you prioritize battery life above all else and enjoy a more laid-back approach to your metal listening, these could be a solid option. Those seeking the explosive energy and detailed attack of modern metal will likely find these a bit too understated.
Pros
- Exceptional battery life.
- Multiple EQ modes for sound customization.
- Comfortable design for long wear.
Cons
- Lacks dynamic range and punch for intense metal.
- Occasional Bluetooth connection drops.
- EQ presets offer limited impact.
9. Oneodio A70 Bluetooth Over Ear Headphones
The OneOdio A70 headphones boast an impressive 72-hour battery life, which is phenomenal for those long, uninterrupted listening marathons. We found the sound to be relatively balanced, with a decent amount of detail in the mids and highs, allowing you to appreciate the intricacies of guitar solos. The ability to switch between Bluetooth and wired modes is a practical feature, offering flexibility for different listening scenarios. The earcups are soft and provide a comfortable seal, making them suitable for extended listening.
Our main critique lies in the bass response, which, while present, doesn’t quite deliver the deep, resonant impact needed to fully convey the power of heavy metal drumming and basslines. It feels a bit restrained. We also found the build quality, while functional, to be somewhat plasticky, and the hinges felt a little less robust than we would have liked. The included audio cable is quite short, which can be inconvenient.
These are a good option for someone who needs extremely long battery life and a versatile headphone that can handle both wireless and wired connections. If you listen to a variety of genres and occasionally dip into heavier music, these will serve you well. However, if your primary focus is on the bone-shaking low-end and aggressive attack of heavy metal, you might find these a bit too polite.
Pros
- Outstanding battery life.
- Balanced sound with good mid and high detail.
- Dual Bluetooth and wired connectivity.
Cons
- Bass lacks the necessary impact for heavy metal.
- Build quality feels somewhat plasticky.
- Short included audio cable.
10. Oneodio Wired Over Ear Headphones
For pure, unadulterated sound reproduction without the complexities of wireless connectivity, we turned to the OneOdio Wired Over Ear Headphones. These headphones excel at delivering a clean signal directly to your ears, allowing the nuances of a well-mixed metal track to shine through. The soundstage feels reasonably wide, providing a good sense of space for the instruments. We appreciated the straightforward design and the comfortable padding on the earcups, which made for a pleasant listening experience.
However, the bass response on these is quite neutral, which might be a dealbreaker for fans of genres that rely on a deep, thumping low-end. While this offers accuracy, it can make powerful drum beats and bass riffs feel less impactful. The build, while functional, is entirely plastic and lacks any premium feel, which is a minor annoyance for a product focused on sound fidelity. The lack of any active noise cancellation means ambient noise can be a distraction.
This headphone is ideal for the purist who values sonic accuracy above all else and enjoys listening in a quiet environment. If you want to hear your metal exactly as the artist intended, without any added bass boost or digital processing, these are a solid choice. However, if you crave that chest-rattling bass or need to block out external noise, you should definitely look elsewhere.
Pros
- Accurate and clean sound reproduction.
- Good sense of soundstage.
- Comfortable earcups.
Cons
- Bass lacks impact for heavy metal.
- Entirely plastic build feels basic.
- No active noise cancellation.
Comparison Table
| Product Name | Driver Size (mm) | Impedance (Ohm) | Connectivity |
| Sennheiser HD 600 | 50 | 300 | Wired |
| Skullcandy Crusher Evo Wireless Bluetooth Headphones | 40 | N/A | Wireless Bluetooth |
| JBL Tune 720BT | 40 | N/A | Wireless Bluetooth |
| beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO, 250 Ohm | 250 | 250 | Wired |
| beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm | 250 | 80 | Wired |
| Skullcandy Crusher ANC 2 Wireless Over-Ear Headphones | 40 | N/A | Wireless Bluetooth |
| JLab JBuds Lux ANC | 40 | N/A | Wireless Bluetooth |
| BERIBES Bluetooth Headphones | 40 | N/A | Wireless Bluetooth |
| OneOdio A70 Bluetooth Over Ear Headphones | 40 | N/A | Wireless Bluetooth |
| OneOdio Wired Over Ear Headphones | 50 | 32 | Wired |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Best Type of Headphone for Heavy Metal?
For heavy metal, closed-back headphones are often recommended. They provide excellent noise isolation. This is important for getting lost in the music. It also prevents sound from leaking out. This is considerate for others around you. You can enjoy the full impact of the bass. You will also hear intricate guitar work clearly. This type helps you focus on the audio.
Closed-back designs create a seal around your ears. This passive isolation blocks out distractions. It allows for a more immersive listening experience. You can focus on the powerful drums and soaring vocals. This makes the music feel more impactful. It’s ideal for noisy environments or shared spaces.
How Important Is Bass Response for Metal Headphones?
Bass response is very important for heavy metal. The genre relies on a strong rhythmic foundation. This comes from the bass guitar and drums. Powerful, punchy bass adds impact. It makes the music feel energetic and driving. You want to feel the low end. It should not be muddy or overpowering. Clean, defined bass is key. It complements the guitars and vocals.
A good bass response adds depth to the sound. It provides the ‘oomph’ that metal fans crave. Without it, the music can sound thin. It might lack the necessary power. Look for headphones that offer tight, controlled bass. This ensures clarity. It allows you to appreciate the full sonic spectrum. It’s about feeling the groove.
Should I Get Open-Back or Closed-Back Headphones for Metal?
For most heavy metal listening, closed-back headphones are generally preferred. They excel at blocking external noise. This allows you to immerse yourself in the music. They also prevent your music from disturbing others. This is crucial for listening in public or shared spaces. You get a more intimate sound experience. This is often desired for the intensity of metal.
Open-back headphones offer a wider soundstage. They can sound more natural and airy. However, they leak sound significantly. They also offer very little noise isolation. This means outside noise will interfere. The delicate details of a metal mix might be lost. For the best experience with metal, start with closed-back.
What Does ‘soundstage’ Mean for Metal Music?
Soundstage refers to the perceived space of the audio. It’s like the virtual room your music plays in. A wide soundstage creates a sense of depth. It makes instruments sound spread out. You can pinpoint where each sound originates. For heavy metal, this is valuable. It helps separate complex layers of sound. You can hear individual guitars, drums, and vocals distinctly.
A good soundstage prevents the music from sounding congested. It gives each instrument room to breathe. This is especially useful for dense metal mixes. You can appreciate the intricate details. It makes the listening experience more immersive. It feels more like a live performance. It adds to the overall impact of the music.
How Much Should I Spend on Good Metal Headphones?
You can find decent headphones for heavy metal in the $100 to $200 range. These often offer a good balance of features. They provide satisfying bass and clarity. Above $200, you start entering audiophile territory. Higher-priced models offer improved build quality. They also boast more refined sound signatures. Premium materials and advanced driver technology are common. You get better comfort and durability too.
However, expensive doesn’t always mean better for your specific needs. Consider your budget and priorities. If you’re just starting, a mid-range option is excellent. If you’re a serious audiophile, invest more. Look for sales and deals. You can often find great value. It’s about finding the best fit for your ears and wallet.
Final Verdict
For an exceptional heavy metal listening experience, we recommend the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO (80 Ohm). These headphones deliver a powerful, impactful bass that drives the rhythm section without becoming muddy. The V-shaped sound signature provides crisp treble for cymbals and detailed mids for searing guitar riffs and vocals, ensuring you hear every nuance of complex mixes. Their robust build quality guarantees durability, and the velour earpads offer excellent comfort for extended listening sessions. The closed-back design provides superior noise isolation, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the intensity of heavy metal without external distractions or sound leakage. While open-back headphones can offer a wider soundstage, the DT 770 PRO’s combination of punchy sound, comfort, and isolation makes them the definitive choice for metalheads seeking an immersive and detailed audio experience.