If you’re new to DJ’ing, you may be wondering why DJ’s wear headphones, especially when it looks like the music is coming from the speakers. Headphones are an integral part of a DJ’s set-up and help to provide the best experience possible for both the crowd and the DJ.

A DJ wears headphones while DJ’ing so they can hear and prepare the next track for mixing. They use the headphones to synchronize the tempo of the next track with the one currently playing out loud so the audience only hears a series of seamless transitions between songs.

In this guide, we’ll explain why it’s important for a DJ to use headphones and discuss if it’s possible to DJ without them. We’ll also outline what features to consider when choosing a pair for yourself and recommend our personal favourite pair of headphones for DJ’ing.

• | Why Do DJ’s Wear Headphones?
• | Can You DJ Without Headphones?
• | How Much Do DJ Headphones Cost?
• | What To Consider When Buying DJ Headphones
• | The Best Headphones For DJ’ing

Without further ado, let’s get started!

 

| Why Do DJ’s Wear Headphones?

A DJ uses headphones to listen to the next song they plan on playing in order to sync the two tracks and create a seamless transition. It may seem complicated but essentially, a DJ simply uses headphones to hear and prepare the next track for mixing. Headphones allow a DJ to mix music smoothly and to listen to a song before they decide to play it to their audience.

There are many steps involved in creating a smooth transition between tracks but the main one is beat-matching. This involves synchronizing the tempos of two tracks so they play back simultaneously. By using headphones, a DJ is able to beat-match the next track with the one currently playing out loud before presenting the next track to the audience.

 

| Can You DJ Without Headphones?

Yes, but it is certainly not recommended. DJ’ing without headphones is possible but it makes it extremely difficult to create smooth transitions and perform at a professional-level. Using headphones ensures a DJ can create seamless transitions between tracks and put on the highest quality performance as possible.

DJ’ing without headphones is possible if you are using a controller with sync functionality. The sync function automatically beat-matches the next track you have cued up with the one currently playing out loud. The main purpose for headphones is to manually beat-match, so putting on a great show without headphones is achievable if you are using the sync feature.

 

| How Much Do DJ Headphones Cost?

If you’re a DJ looking to buy your first pair of headphones, then the question of price has probably come up. The good news is that there are plenty of affordable options out there, no matter what your budget is. DJ headphones can cost anywhere from $30 to $500 but the price of a good quality pair typically ranges between $100 and $300. The higher-end models tend to be well-padded, comfortable and include features that lower-priced models do not.

 

| What To Consider When Buying DJ Headphones

If you’re a DJ yourself or thinking about becoming one, then getting a pair of headphones is crucial. When it comes to choosing a pair of DJ headphones, there are several factors you should consider.

Sound Quality:
The first thing to consider is sound quality. Headphones with a flat frequency response will allow you to hear the music exactly how it was recorded and mixed, which is crucial to getting creating a smooth mix.

Durability:
Durability is another factor you should consider when purchasing headphones for DJ’ing. DJ’s spend many hours wearing headphones during performances so it’s important to select durable headphones that can withstand being transported and cope with extended use.

Noise Cancellation:
Noise cancellation helps keep out external noise so a DJ can hear what’s coming through the headphones more easily. This helps a DJ isolate themselves from distraction and focus on seamlessly mixing tracks together.

Comfort:
Make sure to select a pair of headphones that are comfortable. Headphones come in many different styles (eg. over-ear, on-ear or earbud) so try out different pairs to see which one feels the most comfortable.

Wired Headphones:
It’s important you select a wired pair of headphones, not wireless. While it is possible to connect wireless headphones to a DJ controller, the slight audio delay will make it extremely difficult to beat-match and mix tracks.

 

| The Best Headphones For DJ’ing

Sennheiser HD 25

The Sennheiser Pro Audio HD 25 headphones are a solid choice for those looking for an affordable pair of DJ headphones. They have received hundreds of 5-star reviews online and are one of the most purchased pairs of headphones amongst DJ’s and musicians around the world.

The Sennheiser HD 25’s are made with lightweight and comfortable materials that make them easy to wear for long periods of time without discomfort. These headphones deliver excellent clarity at all volume levels and come with a high-quality carrying case.

Each of the ear cups swivel 90 degrees so you can cue your next track using one ear and hear what the audience hears with the other. The headband is also adjustable so you’ll always get an optimal fit.

If you’re looking for DJ headphones that deliver both high-quality sound and comfort, then consider picking up a pair of the Sennheiser HD 25’s.

You can find the Sennheiser DH 25’s on Amazon here.

 

Related Posts:
Is Becoming A DJ Worth It?
How Much Money Do DJ’s Make?
How To Beat Match In Ableton Live

 

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