Why DJs need proper headphones
When you mix, you listen to the next track in your headphones while the current one plays through the speakers. You need to hear the kick drum of both clearly to keep them in time. In a loud club, ordinary headphones let too much noise in, so you end up turning them up and still struggle to hear.
The features that matter
- Closed-back cups. These seal around or over your ears and block out the room. Open-back headphones, which are popular for home listening, let sound in and out, so they’re not suited to DJing.
- Swivelling cups. Many DJs listen with one cup on and one off, so they can hear the speakers with the other ear. Cups that rotate make this much more comfortable.
- Comfort. You might wear them for a two-hour set. Look for padded cushions and a headband that doesn’t pinch.
- Sound isolation. The better they block outside noise, the lower the volume you need.
- A strong cable. A coiled cable stretches when you move and stays tidy when you don’t. A detachable cable is a bonus, because it can be replaced if it breaks.
- Solid build. DJ headphones get thrown in bags and dropped. Folding designs and sturdy hinges last longer.
- Clear bass. You beatmatch mostly by the kick drum, so it needs to be easy to pick out.
Protect your hearing
This matters more than any feature. Hearing damage from loud sound is permanent, and DJs are exposed to a lot of it.
- Keep your headphone volume as low as you can while still hearing the beat clearly.
- Turn the booth monitor down rather than turning your headphones up to compete.
- Use the one-ear method, but don’t blast the cup you’re using.
- Wear musician’s earplugs in loud venues when you’re not mixing. They lower the volume without muffling the music.
- Give your ears quiet time after a loud gig.
Good isolation helps here too. If the headphones block the room properly, you won’t need to push the volume.
What not to worry about
You don’t need the most expensive pair to learn. Many affordable DJ headphones do the job well. Focus on fit, isolation and build, and try them on if you can. Be wary of headphones sold mainly on heavy bass, as an overly boomy sound can make the kick drum harder to pick out, not easier.
Try before you buy
On our courses, your mentor can explain what to look for and how to use headphones properly while you mix, including keeping the volume safe. You don’t need your own decks to start the Starter course, and headphones are a good first purchase if you want one. They also make a great gift alongside a course.