My Must Go Studio Headphone for Mixing

I managed to get these during a period of very low sales, and honestly, I was skeptical at first. I had my doubts, thinking they would just be another overrated headset, similar to Audio-Technica. After using them for a certain period, however, I found them surprisingly easy to mix with.

In today’s headphone market, it is hard to find something that delivers a flat yet clear sound signature suitable for mixing at such a low price. These headphones genuinely surprised me with their balanced sound and clarity, making them an excellent value for the money.

Recommended for vocal work

These headphones are great for vocal work, whether tracking or mixing, because they're able to highlight problems in the sibilant range. I had to replace the ear cups after a couple of years since they started peeling, but other than that they're sturdy enough to last more than a decade.

My absolute favorite pair of headphones for monitoring

I'm a professional location sound mixer, and a hobbyist guitarist, and for both activities I have tried numerous pairs of headphones and have always come back to the good ol' 7506. They are one of the most popular pairs of headphones for monitoring for a reason - their sound is crisp, clear, and concise. A little light on bass, which is ideal for their primary use cases, with plenty of revealing detail that is essential for monitoring whatever it is you are recording. They sound great for guitar, and work extremely well for location sound recording - they are light and comfortable (though I do recommend a replacement pair of velour earpads) even after hours of use; 10-12 hour days on set are very common for my line of work.

I don't really prefer to use these for mixing, they don't provide the most "realistic" listening environment, but again, monitoring is their primary purpose anyway, so you shouldn't be using them for mixing anyway in my opinion.

My one gripe is that I wish the cable was removable, but it also isn't terribly difficult to mod them for that. Though they're lightweight, I'd still consider them pretty sturdy. I think their physical flexibility helps with that (not too rigid). The pair I use for location sound I've had for over 4 years, and over that period time with very regular (not necessarily gentle) use, they still work perfectly and are completely free of damage. For the $70-80 I paid for them, that's an incredible value.

From Gear Setup

OVERHYPED

Would not recommend as your primary mixing headphone. "OK" to use as a alternate reference but they should not be your main reference when making bigger decisions. However, they do make very good monitoring headphones for recording, or quick mixes, as they are both loud and clear, and fairly well isolated. The highs can be harsh and they get physically uncomfortable over longer periods. Earpads need to be replaced yearly if you use them regularly. Not my favorite, as they trick you into thinking they are more accurate then they are. There are several distinct mid frequency dips.

Excellent headphones

I use these a LOT when mixing/mastering. They used to be my main headphones, and even after switching to DT-880s I still come back to them to check my high end and clarity. The only problem I have with them is that the 120~200Hz range seems a bit hidden compared to other headphones I've tried... notably the 880s. My masters still sound just fine on them and everywhere else though, and I've heard no complaints from my 7506 made music.

Best Monitoring Headphones

After using a set of Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones as my primary studio monitoring headphones for several years, I was in the market for a second set of headphones and picked these up after doing some research. They're incredibly accurate (and comfortable), and the price is super reasonable. If you're looking for new studio headphones, look no further.

Sony MDR7506 - Hard to say more than what's already been said

Amazing sound quality; clear and very balanced. These have been described as the go to headphones of audio professionals. Got a sharp pencil deal with these, put new earpads on them and I'm completely satisfied. I think the sound quality is better with these than the V700's I also own. SERIOUS audiophiles will tell you they each serve a different purpose. I don't think you can go wrong with the Sony MDR7506.

The Honda Accord of headphones

Affordable but reliable for quality mixes. I've always had an ear for Sony's natural curve, and these headphones are no exception. They lack the overhyped bottom end that's common with a lot of headphones these days, so listeners who are used to consumer aimed models will probably find they lack excitement. But that's exactly what makes them so fantastic for doing decent mixes. I have several sets and, since you can easily replace the earpads (which start to flake and crumble after 4-5 years of heavy use), I always will.

Good for someone who's getting there

Good headphones, especially for someone who's just getting there with mix and masters, while not the best they are certainly an upgrade from any cheap headphones you may have started out with, good sound though do need an EQ to get them to sound as good as they really should; also sound REALLY good when I use them with things like my Nintendo Switch or iPhone.

Great sound, long lasting and feels great to wear.

I have used these for absolutely everything for the last five years or so. Especially good for studio work!