DJ Headphone Buying Guide
AIAIAI TMA-1 DJ headphones are Lab recommended for DJing.
What Makes A Good DJ Headphone?
Sound
Accurate sound reproduction is not of utmost concern here. DJ headphones should provide enhanced lows and crisp highs. It's the kick drums, snares, and hi-hats you're paying attention to when mixing, not intricate sonic details. For tech specs, here are some approximate guidlines:
- Frequency range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz is the standard, you can go wider, but it's not necessary.
- Drivers that are 40mm or larger for louder lows.
- For impedance, look for a model with a rating of 25 ohms or more.
Durability
Over the head, around the neck, the one-hand-single-ear hold — DJs constantly twist and forcefully form fit headphones, and a proper pair should be able to take the abuse (at least for a year or two). Check how strong the joints / hinges are and the quality of the materials used.
Comfort
However you wear them, DJ headphones should be comfortable. Check for headband padding, quality of the ear pads, and adjustability. Further, swiveling or rotating cups might provide better fit, and if you like to move around in the DJ booth, look for headphones with coiled and/or detachable cords.
Single Cord Design
If the headphones have two cords coming from the ear pieces, they're not DJ headphones. DJ headphones always have single cord design for less tangles and booth accidents.
Folding Design
Do they fold into a portable shape? How easy is it to stuff them into your bag (with limited space) at the end of the night? Headphones that don't fold tend to break during transport.