AUDIO ENGINEER Tests The Best Headphones Under $300

I tested the best headphones for music production and mixing. Please read below for information about how I compared them.
Good headphones should:
1) Provide an accurate, spacious sound stage to aid in mixing and mastering music.
2) Reveal low, mid and high frequencies without distortion so you can make quick production decisions.
3) Faithfully reproduce the dynamics and transient response of the material.
4) Reveal the true depth and image of audio material.
5) Feel comfortable on your head for many hours and be strong enough to withstand daily use.
I tested each headphone with both a high-quality headphone amplifier and a standard MacBook 1/8 audio output. I referenced, mixed and listened casually with each headphone over the course of many weeks and months to reach my conclusions.
0:00 - Intro
0:20 - The Headphones
1:35 - My favourite
2:46 - $150 vs $300
3:23 - AKG K702
4:30 - Focal Listen Pro
5:20 - Beyerdynamic DT Pro X
6:15 - ATH M70X
6:50 - VSX
7:25 - Why I chose VSX
Headphone specs and more info:
Get VSX Here:stevenslateaudio.com/?ref=Wynne
Steven Slate Audio VSX Essentials: stevenslateaudio.com/?ref=Wynne
ATH M70x: bit.ly/ATHM70
Focal Listen Pro: bit.ly/FocalPro
Beyerdynamic DT PRO700 X: bit.ly/DTPROX
Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X bit.ly/DT_900PROX
AKG K702: bit.ly/AKG702
🌍 My Website / Contact / Hire me - michaelwynneaudio.com
🎧 My Sound Banks / Preset Packs - inthemix.store
📱 Join My Free Discord - / discord
💸Releasing a song? Save money on DistroKid if you sign up through my custom link - distrokid.com/vip/inthemix
#mixing #musicproduction #headphones

[@inthemix]

If you want to try or buy VSX, you can support me by using my affiliate link here: stevenslateaudio.com/?ref=Wynne Important: I have been inundated with messages, emails and comments asking how I set these headphones up. It’s just a case of following the set up guide and takes about 2 minutes the first time you use them. After that there is no additional set up. Please read below for information about how I compared them. I tested each headphone with both a high quality headphone amplifier and a standard MacBook 1/8 audio output. I referenced, mixed and listened casually with each headphone over the course of many weeks and months to reach my conclusions. Good headphones should: 1) Provide an accurate, spacious sound stage to aid in mixing and mastering music. 2) Reveal low, mid and high frequencies without distortion so you can make quick production decisions. 3) Faithfully reproduce the dynamics and transient response of the material. 4) Reveal the true depth and image of audio material. 5) Feel comfortable on your head for many hours and be strong enough to withstand daily use.

[@cgnature]

Thank your always informative videos...I watch ur videos religiously...wanted to ask if possible seeing that u encounter vocal session nd recordings could u do the same video for microphones 🎤 maybe explaining from ur mixing perspective on the most troublesomes mics or their characteristics etc you've picked on session you had to mix from different mics etc . Thank you again for u content keep up the good content. ❤🙏🏽

[@inthemix]

@@cgnature That would be interesting indeed! Admittedly, with microphones I believe that as long as the quality is decent, the placement and positioning of them is by far the most important aspect.

[@Bro.00pm]

@@inthemix true but am from kenya and 300 dollars is like 30000 shillings tooo expensive for me

[@Drummer1000George]

@@inthemix Maybe I missed this in the video or description but is this video sponsored in any way?

[@inthemix]

@@Drummer1000George at 2:05 I talked about how they sent me the pair (I’ve been sent dozens of headphones to test from many brands over the years) and I talked about how they paid me for my time testing and evaluating the headphones. In this video I am sharing my own opinions and experience, they have not paid me to say anything positive or negative about the headphones and they had no control over the video :)

[@tevintarso]

Slowly transitioning from being just a rapper to being a full-time producer. This channel have been so helpful

[@WhittaII]

Finally decided to begin a journey producing music and stumbled across you. I could listen to you for hours brother. Thanks for being so informative and relaxing to listen to.

[@Deelusi]

Oooh! I was looking for new headphones and was looking for your old videos, good to know there's some sort of updated version!

[@jameskelk7825]

Very helpful as always. As others have said you have earned my trust with your superb repertoire of videos so naturally I came here as I need a new set

[@salvadorvenegas-escobar1388]

Concise yet very informative. Thanks!

[@michaeltablet8577]

Thank you so very much this is really helpful!

[@2ndMOUSEofficial]

Couldn't agree more about the vsx Michael. I have full confidence that what I hear when mixing with them, won't need altered when played back on another system. Because you get the feeling you're already listening to great monitors, there's no need to check them on actual monitors . Being able to check car stereo setups, boom box, and even earbuds just gives a great all round look at what you're doing from every possible angle. For me, these are a personal revolution.

[@HumanBeingWithFeelings]

have you ever worked in one of those fancy studios the headphones "replicate"?

[@SethPeterMusic]

Great and detailed video, planning on getting my first Professional studio headphones, thanks a lot 🙏

[@inthemix]

Thank you. I hope you find the right ones!

[@neutralfog]

Great reviews. Thank you so much! ⚜

[@AironExTv]

Interesting. Thanks for the tests.

[@Arthur.H.Studio]

You sold me on the VSX I have them now, and truly enjoy them!

[@KD9-37]

Another Great Video Mate! Thanks a ton. Now im so hyped to get my hands on VSX 🤤

[@GODAR_MUSIC]

I've just ordered them after watching this video. You help me become top tier producent. Thank YOU for everything you do for us. I wish you Health, Love and Abundance!

[@MuddyGunns]

We need MORE VIDS From IN THE MIX! I love how you just get straight to the point of the video. I am gonna check out the VSX Cans! I currently use the BeyerDynamic 990 Pro (the older ones), which I love!

[@TheOnlyToblin]

Still the best youtuber for hobbyist musicians. Thank you for everything

[@gravity00x]

VSX by far the best, most flat sounding, most versatile. I tested EVERYTHING else and nothing comes EVEN CLOSE. The soundstage imaging, the clarity, the bass response, the flat frequency response curve.... VSX gives the best BANG (bucks aside as it's price is nothing, compared to value) not even counting the studio and headphone emulations. My cons on the VSX are the comfort, but then again I've got a big fat knob for a head so it may vary for you. I also don't like leather pads as they make your ears sweat, especially if you produce/mix/master for long hours at a time. But that doesn't take away from making them the best headphones out of all of them anyways.

[@jamwrightiam]

congrats on so close to 1 mil btw!

[@UNICORNSF3ProgameplayProRACER]

Great video, have a happy weekend👍

[@cripstick4336]

Amazing video as always I might have to get a pair of the vsx, i currently have the 770 pros

[@thomasscheuringmusic]

Sometimes it's just that easy. Nice. Going to test them. Love your calm voice. Can you maybe recommend amplifiers in different price ranges, too?

[@KeithCopeland778]

Thank you for a very comprehensive review!!!! I currently use the ATH-M50X and really like them. I've never heard of the VSX headphones and am very curious about them!

[@rizzyinstrumentals]

great video as always! you talked about the importance of setting the vsxs up right or calibrating them. How would you go about that and what do you mean. greetings from Germany

[@whatsupchicken]

Awesome thank you! Question to you and any other experts in the topic: Would you prefer VSX also for pleasure listening? And does the software give you this kind of enhanced experience option? What I mean is when your goal is not to monitoring as clearly as you can but having good time make the sound more exciting like a home cinema experience. Would it be still the VSX the best in this price range for that?

[@NullnVoid.]

Thank you thank you thank you. You and Benn Jordan are the two main people I check in with for learning/buyers guides. Neither of you have let me down yet and seem to agree a decent amount of the time, at least where it counts.

[@ruddmedia]

reaper is really tuff to learn had it for 3 yrs erased it got studio one 6 never looked back just sayin and i went to full saill for audio engineering classes!

[@juniper_sona]

I got these headphones about a week ago and they have been simply incredible.

[@eamesdnb]

This would be more of a general question about headphones and studio speakers since I am just in my first year of mixing. In which instances do you use your headphones and in which your studio speakers and vice versa? I myself have pioneer dm 40 d speakers and crappy headphones. If you read this, thanks for the content. It helped me a lot with getting started in FL Studio

[@djeclyps]

Wasn’t even thinking about the VSX’s just because I loathe “emulation” typically when I hear it said, but now I’m going to have to try them. I think aside from the focal headphones, I tried them all and totally agree with what you said about them. Good job!

[@Vistra_Beatz]

You did a good job of explaining the variables here! all these companies should pay you for this work! Especially with everything being ordered online these days, it's hard to compare headphones. Question: Does the VSX spatial audio create any latency - or would that primarily heavily depend on CPU capacity/usage?

[@toddvandeau5238]

Every headphone has imperfections, but using a software component allows that to be improved. I wonder if you would consider comparing all units without software, and comparing all with software, perhaps using something like Sonarworks for the units that do not have dedicated software?

[@TihetrisWeathersby]

I've started learning how to compose my music a few years ago thanks to your videos, One day I might get the courage to post them lol

[@inthemix]

You really should share your creativity! If you want help with this, you could check out our Discord Server where you can share ideas and music without judgement. We are just a bunch of people who love music and support each other. The link is in the description of the video here.

[@TihetrisWeathersby]

@@inthemix Thanks

[@matthaberek]

What pair of headphones in a 50 to 150 dollar range do you think would be best for strictly vocals. Recording vocals and mixing vocals. all the instrumentals are already professionally mastered and ready for vocals but I want to record them at home on my own time. Will I still need a pair of open back to mix the vocals or is there some kind of closed backs that can work for all vocal situations?

[@communionhiphop]

I recently bought the VSX headphones, influenced in great part by your glowing review, but i find myself getting ear fatigued quickly when using them. I think perhaps the bass response on my ears is hurting my ears. Did you experience anything similar and if so how did you solve it?

[@Barncore]

Turn the volume down

[@eliteculture1519]

How did you get the mt48 in black?!? Is it limited edition or somthing?!? Great video 👍🏽

[@mixchifius]

Thanks for the comparison. Since you plase such emphasis on set up of the VSX's would you maybe make a video about how you set them up?

[@inthemix]

I should have specified that the set up is a one time process that takes around 2 minutes. Its a set up guide produced by SSA which explains the controls on the plugin.

[@MutleeIsTheAntiGod]

Thanks for this! My cat destroyed my MX20s a few weeks ago so I ended up buying some MX40s secondhand and couldn't be happier. Was thinking of bumping those to gym headphones and getting the MX70s but after this review I might go with some 50s in the future. Or maybe springing for the VSX for my studio headphones.

[@Fruggggg]

dont get the 50s, even the m40x are better from a tuning perspective. skip them

[@astralaudio101]

A review of the Beyer DT880 & DT990 would be appreciated. 👍

[@Smith5665jim]

Is there a recommendation of how to set the vxs up properly, I currently own them but can’t use the software because it doesn’t sound right to my ears, I just end up using the headphones, glad I watched your video and hope there is an answer to this Cheers

[@GODAR_MUSIC]

Hello my friend. I have a big question. I see that most of the producers use dt 770 pro. I want to ask what do you think about the choice [ DT 770 pro VS. VSX] Is there a big difference between them? Big Enough!? I know there is a difference for sure, so to make the question straight, is it worth spending additional 250 $ (because that's the price gap) and get VSX? Or is it like "you will do great with both, but VSX gives you a (BIT) better mid depth (or something) and cool features like car,studio,club listening?

[@thetrashpanda9085]

Currently using the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 250 ohms and I absolutely love these head phones. Running them through the Presonus USB 96 and a Mackie HM4 to give them the extra power they need. So clear and balanced while also being comfortable on my large head. Having seen what the VSX is capable of, I may have gone with those if I didn't already invest in the DT 770s

[@TraxtasyMedia]

yep same here, I run mine with the Pro-Ject Head Box DS. Rarely had such comfortable headphones and I can wear them all day long, without getting heavy on the head, it's like I don't even feel that I'm wearing one. And they're awesome for big ears.

[@ExplicableCashew]

All links on the VSX page that I could find directly lead you to the "buy" button. No info about the software. Can you give any info on whether it's VST, AU, and which OSes are supported? (Gotta guess Windows and MacOS only, i.e. no Linux, but who knows)

[@frankpitman3431]

Were the DSX the best straight out of the box, or only after setting them up. I want the best sounding headphones for playing guitar through my pedalboard and iridium modeler. I probably will not get into the setting up which sounds like I should .

[@matanmelamed4341]

Silly question but the VSX good for EDM production? I know headphones are not specifically designed for specific genres but I wonder how well are they for bass heavy oriented genres like dubstep :)

[@cp3osound]

Is there a program on the market that compensates for hearing loss in certain frequency ranges? Seems like something Mr. Slate should look into.

[@Alex0ros]

Hello, does it matter if you use the vsx with an audio interface or just directly plug them in the PC? Thank you!

[@user-cn4ox4xp4b]

I'm debating whether to buy Signature PURE or DT700PRO X. Any good advice?

[@burning_KFC]

As always writing a comment to support the channel

[@marxcyrus4480]

How do you feel bout the sound quality without the software? I come from a computerless set up. Or do you recommend a different pair?

[@TraxtasyMedia]

I got the Beyerdynamics DT 770 Pro 250 Ohms Impendace and I can't say how awesome they are. Finally I can pinpoint, issues, where I never had idea of they existed in my music.

[@jonkthompson]

I love mine as well going into a Motu M2 and fit perfectly with my Adam Audio T7V's for reference.

[@harlekurtmusic]

Very good review, made me consider the VSX again even though I have LCD-X! One minor detail, though: you said this is 'not spatial audio' - If you mean Apple's term for their spatial rendering technology, I see, but if not, then I'm a little confused. Assuming VSX utilizes HRTF binauralisation, then that pretty much _is_ spatial audio, or are they doing something else entirely? Thanks and keep it up! Really enjoy your videos.

[@inthemix]

Forgive me, it is spatial audio. What I mean is that it is not random 3D audio around the head. As far as I know, the VSX does utilise HRTF along with some other proprietary technologies. I didn’t mean to cause any confusion but I hope that clears it up?

[@harlekurtmusic]

​@@inthemix thank you! Would have been amazing if they just came up with something else. That cleared it up 👌🏼

[@richrich1k]

Love the fact that you always get straight to the point without wasting time. My question is: do the VSX deliver an honest sound?

[@jacobhutchings4119]

no

[@afvist6693]

Im very curious as to what you think about the AIAIAI studio headphones 🙂

[@bud1390]

Thanks. Good video (even if it feels a bit much like an ad). Some more info about the implementation of the VSX software would have been good. Apparently it's vst/au/aax only, so no (hustle-free) use outside of the DAW without 3rd party SW!? Also iLok or HW Dongle to use!? These are important factors for some and should definitely be mentioned in a review.

[@inthemix]

I use them out of the DAW and don’t fond the 3rd party soundsource app to be any trouble. Truthfully I have used sound source for a long time because it allows me to run anything on any output or input. I regularly use EQ when watching videos, movies, KZbin ect :)

[@bud1390]

Yeah, I use a similar tool (APO EQ) for Windows, which has some onboard FX and can host VSTs as well (mostly for dealing with my pesky room-modes). Just felt that, with the SW as a central point of your praise, these things would be of insterest for some.

[@rhythmelofreak]

Could you suggest some wireless headphones with maximum possible flat response (just as second reference)?

[@ernestbuckley8671]

How is the build quality of the VSX cans? Not sure what the benefits are having multiple rooms. One good sounding room is all you need. I understand Slate is about options but you get to a point where too many options are a hindrance.

[@rusm7368]

Hi, quick question, would you also recommend the VSX for music production?

[@junior.von.claire]

You’ve earned my trust. The return policy means giving them a chance is simple enough. I love my Audio Technica ATH-M50s, but now am eager to check out the VSX. Thanks!

[@ChrisBessy]

i dont understand why people like the m50x. I Tried them 3 times.... I have hurt after 20min, and the sound is very not flat... and my mixes sound not good when I use them.

[@thelolmighty]

@@ChrisBessy Most people I know, including myself, replace the earcups right away with the AT-M40/50x series haha. Would be nice to not have to, but the cost still keeps them on the low end of the "Okay For Mixing" budget. And especially the high end with m50x could use some loving. But seems there's some great alternatives in this video!

[@ssserotonin1373]

@@ChrisBessy not a fan either

[@Filipendula69]

​@@thelolmighty can you sugest me earcups for m50x. i have bought some thick ones and i lack some bass and sound is diferent on almost anything i listen.

[@landonh3535]

What did you end deciding? I’ve been mixing on the athm50s for so long (with correction software to adjust the hyped eq) that mine are pretty worn down now. I’d love to try something else.

[@melokit-music]

Thx for this review

[@inthemix]

You're welcome

[@cdney8285]

Oh that headphone transition is so cool😀

[@inthemix]

You’re the first person to comment on it! Thank you, I’ve been trying to improve my video quality these days :)

[@steveazadi]

Hi... I have the beyerdynamic dt1990 pro along with sonarwarks... Do u think the vsx are better in terms of mixing and mastering...

[@anthonyromich1682]

i know im a little late, im not a mixer but if i bought these headphones for trying to figure out where footsteps are coming from will these work well? i want them to be loud as well.

[@danielhipwell3607]

Hi there, thanks for the review. I love your channel. I've never really been good with eq and love listening to electro dance music but these headphones you've reviewed here are really peaking my interest. Do you think it would be worth for me to invest in a pair given these factors. I've currently got a Volt 1 and Apollo Twin and the DT 770 and DT 990. The VSX's seem to be a real step up.

[@gravity00x]

no, those are not headphones to enjoy music with. for that there are better headphones. these are critical listening headphones and a room emulation system to further enhance that CRITICAL listening. not for listening enjoyment.

[@danielhipwell3607]

@@gravity00x For listening enjoyment i'm thinking of refining my headphone search with either Audio Technica M50x, Sennheiser HD 25 or Beyerdynamic Pro X 700 for listening to edm music. Any thoughts on those 2 for this purpose? Thanks

[@canuckchris5733]

I enjoyed this. I clicked because I was looking for a headphone that would be good for for apple hi-res using a DAC with an iPhone with a bit of low end punch Is there something in this list that may do that Cheers

[@1ndonlystr1ngz]

Can the vsx headphones be used outside of a daw for normal audio listening ? Cause I would like to know how they sound on their own as headphones

[@calvinyip364]

I don't do mixing or any music production I do play games with headphones, listen to kpop , pop , KZbin and Spotify. As well as listening to some flac music. How is the VSX headphone for music? In comparison with the dt770x and 990x? Is it still an overall winner ?

[@elzurixmusic]

This is super interesting, because from what I remembered you prefer open back headphones, and in general I've heard open backs give you better stereo field and are better for mixing and mastering. But now you're saying that the VSX headphones are this good, that they can beat even speakers, which are the most open back you can get audio to sound like, how can a closed back headphones can even be compared to speakers? I'm really curious if high end open back headphones like the DT 1990, or even high end closed back headphones can be compared to that (and ofcourse let's assume you're in a quiet environment with a proper audio interface that can drive both) Because I was so sure these would be my dream headphones and now I'm starting to question myself and perhaps the VSX are just better. Also just for context, I want to upgrade my DT 770 pro, and I have proper speakers

[@hosmapl]

Does anyone have an opinion about the Morphit plugin by ToneBoosters? I don't have any of the headphones that can be corrected but I wonder if it's worth to buy a pair and use it

[@slayer2386]

I've been meaning to upgrade from my M70x after using it for years. The M70x is fantasic in my opinion for how clean it sounds, especially for orchestral / instrumental music. Do you think if I should get the VSX or something else for mixing & mastering? I don't mind spending over $300 if there's an even better choice. Thanks!

[@gobenmusic336]

yes. the Vsx can emulate the M70x and speakers. Worth the money 100%

[@EphraimEspeter]

Hey Michael dou you ever testet the Senheiser 650 or 660 and if what do you think about them?

[@cfig81]

Thank you for the review, it will be nice if they includes all of the spaces

[@inthemix]

To be honest, I think it’s good that they have this cheaper option with less spaces so that we don’t all have to pay $499 to access everything in the Platinum version.

[@cfig81]

@@inthemix nah, the spaces should be include it in the same $299 package or improve the look and feel of the headphones because it looks fragile plasticish cheap. Thanks again...:)

[@eggzykenneth8338]

Hello Mike, I have a serious problem with my FL studio, it's making this unwanted automated white noise, it sounds like I'm in a beach or something, and this sounds even in a clean track, like I've not done anything at all, and anytime I export I still hear it in the track 😥 please how can I stop this?

[@bfreitas456]

I've always used and loved my m50x's but lately they've been collecting dust since my VSX's can perfectly emulate their sound. they even managed to replicate the m50x's soundstage and bass respose, sounds identical to me. it's truly impressive

[@ELG1958]

I question why pay double for a pair of these to only replicate a headphone that is half the price. I would expect to not maybe get double the sound improvement but a serious margin of improvement.

[@bfreitas456]

@@ELG1958 well, it can replicate, doesn't mean you have to care about that, it has a lot more to offer. this just makes the process of getting used to sound of the emulations and the headphone itself a lot easier. since I'm past that point I use this particular emulation a lot less, now I just use it as a tool to check the harshness of my high-end, since the bump around 10kHz of the m50x is very useful for that (if you're used to how they sound, of course)

[@Aestareth_]

i hate the m50x though...

[@bfreitas456]

@@Aestareth_ lol I understand that feeling. at first I didn't think they have a pleasant sound, and they really don't, it's harsh af, but they are quite useful for music production once you get used to how they sound. you're getting a very detailed sound for the price you pay. VSX is much more useful though, and can be quite pleasant depending on the preset

[@Aestareth_]

@@bfreitas456 might as well get AKG 631s then. still, i think i'm gonna keep my HyperX Cloud IIs for now, until i'm ready to upgrade to higher tier headphones

[@deadnoises]

Have you considered checking the 200~ range? Or some sennheiser options rather. I just bought a pair of Senns 560s which don't have many reviews yet! Not as detailed as these at least. Thanks for the good video as always!

[@inthemix]

Thank you. My previous review ($50-150) does cover a few $200 options due to inflation. I didn’t feel that there were enough offerings around the $200 mark to make a whole video. It seems that most companies focus on $100, $250-$300, $500 with some then specialising beyond $1500. As for the Senns, there wasn’t a pair in the price range that was rated very well (that I could find). Many of their models are loved and respected in the industry but the price is often higher than what I reviewed here. However, the 560 did look interesting snd if I could remake my $50 to $150/200 video review I would certainly include then and put them to the test. Thanks for the feedback and questions!

[@BadatBoardgames]

Would these headphones be worth it for mixing vocals only?

[@rahulradhakrishnan2964]

Hi sir, I am using LG G8 X Mobile, it have Hi -FI Quard DAC , Still I didn't feel the hi fi quality sound even though I have the option. Because I am using normal headphones.What is your recommendation for this LG phone. Please recommend

[@harshal8908]

Hey should I buy beyerdaynamic DT 990 pro for watching movies and leasing music?

[@taytmiller1782]

@inthemix what’s ur second favorite and why

[@gibsonstrat77]

Hi all, have just got the VSX headphones, I believe I have set them up correctly, however, I have noticed when I listen to a song that I would usually feel has a really thunderous and punchy kick, it sounds flat? the headphones I would use before were open back (dt900's) could I be just hearing the difference between open and closed or am I missing something? any comments would be appreciated. Thank you.

[@shorerocks]

Wow, excellent video, thx. I have to say, though - you are aware that you have the PERFECT model head for wearing and showing headphones, right? Right? 🙂 Cheers from Germany!

[@thelisted3004]

Been umming and erring about VSX for a while, but when Steven Slate said you reviewed it and loved them… that just about got me sold! Respect you a lot so if you say they’re that good they must be amazing

[@inthemix]

Thanks! If you haven't got them yet, it's a great time to get them because you get some extra rooms free with the standard version here: stevenslateaudio.com/?ref=Wynne

[@noahabel5698]

Just ordered the DT 900 Pro X. My ears are very sensitive and I need soft pads and light clamping power. I am excited to try them!

[@clembeats5353]

What do you think about the Waves version of VSX (Abbey Riad Studio 3)

[@ItsDHunt]

What interface would you recommend for the VSX?

[@loveshalomministry]

VSX How much to add other studio sounds and would it be good for recording in studio setting?

[@NickHope]

The Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X are 345g. So I agree that they are heavy. All 7 other headphones I compared them too were between 235g and 290g. So too much pressure on the top of my head for me, which I could tell (when I tested them in the shop) would get uncomfortable over a long session. They did sound fantastic though.

[@filiprangus5826]

Thank you for the comparison! But I'm a bit confused, if you don't want to use the software that comes with VSX, are they still so great?

[@inthemix]

Without software the headphones are good, in my opinion. I think the best option is to use the linear 2 model in the software if you want the headphones to sound their best. The raw headphone sound is not designed to be optimal on its own and is more of a blank canvas for modelling, as far as I am aware.

[@janpr9712]

Did you compare the VSX also with other sound staging solutions? I wonder if you could (in a future video) compare the VSX with a similar setup. For example, I am using a pair of Sennheiser HD650 headphones that were calibrated by SonarWorks (to make them as flat as they can be) through the Reference 4 plugin, in combination with the Waves Abbey Road Studio 3 plugin including their NX head tracker. When you say you reach for you monitor controller even though your speakers are muted, that feels quite familiar to me. It takes a while to settle, but at some point I'm convinced that the headphones disappear and I am listening to speakers. According to Waves the adjustment of the HRTFs in response to your head's movement is an essential part of making the effect feel genuine. Are the VSX headphones + SW also working this way, or do they rely on a single static setup (albeit with many more trim-points than the NX one).

[@JohnSmith-pn2vl]

no, the head moving thing is not something you want in production work imo

[@brainheartofficial]

I am a better musician because of this channel. Keep rocking!

[@inthemix]

Thanks Brian. You too!

[@Matoro342]

Around a couple of years ago I got the Avantone Planars which are open back and I love their sound, but they are heavy and the headband broke (the entire weight held up by a flimsy plastic brace, so dumb). I've since sort of fixed them myself with some scuffed sewing and extra padding. I got them for like $200. The weight is now giving me headaches, but I don't want to go back to closed back headphones. I am skeptical that the VSX can truly convince you there's nothing on your head while being closed back. Without any software, I have frequently been playing games and heard something that I thought came from elsewhere in the house with my current pair.

[@nandecomics]

What would be the best Wireless Headphones that is great for FL Studio / Pro Tool's and also great for going jogging?

[@dolinaj_jr]

The VSX are very interesting! Do you think they would be also a good choice for video editing? (post-processing/mixing interviews, sound effects, music..)

[@inthemix]

I didn’t test them for video editing yet but, funnily enough, I was listening to a podcast today and it made the experience so much more comfortable. Hearing the voices out in front of me felt more natural and easier to follow. I wasn’t expecting that but it did sound good, I think editing on them would require a lot of referencing.

[@dolinaj_jr]

@@inthemix Thank you very much! 🙌🏻 Are there any headphones you would recommend for video editing? Or possibly it can be any of the ones you mentioned in video? I would like to learn more about sound processing and also invest into more "accurate sounding" sound equipment than the one I use now.. (15€ yenkee speakers) 😅

[@kelvinnunez2538]

In the market for new headphone monitors. I was going for the Bayerdynamics DT 700 Pro and after seeing this, I might go for the VSX. Also wanted to ask, what is that sound interface you have in this video?

[@inthemix]

The interface I showed was the merging Anubis SPS. I actually prefer running VSX straight from my laptop headphone output most of the time for casual listening, editing and referencing. I showed the interface to quell any comments about me not using a “powerful enough” amp. That was the biggest criticism in my previous video despite using a high end audio interface. Can’t please everyone! The VSX and 700prox are very different headphones. It’s definitely worth testing out snd seeing what works for you. For me it’s the VSX paired with my main monitors. Thanks!

[@Dupdopy]

How much latency does the VSX modeling introduce?

[@brunovalente2077]

I kindly would like to ask you if you would compare the bass transients response, between those and the Beyerdynamics DT700 pro X. Considering the emulation software its great, but in terms of audio quality and clear bass response, if you plug the Beyerdynamics instead, what do you think they are relatevely. Of course I know the emulations will not sound right calibrated, but how does it sounds the low transients and the overall bass texture. \thanks :)

[@brunovalente2077]

as I think they are the best as i experienced with, within this price range. Taked some time but now I love them, my favorites.

[@gobenmusic336]

Got tired of the "boxiness" of my M50x and needed something new. Bought the Vsx based on your recomendation and i have to say... Best Headphones i've ever had.

[@piyasirimusicproduction]

A great review as always! Perhaps my HD650 and DT 770 Pro, which I currently use when composing my orchestral music, will get a new colleague soon! ;) Thank you!

[@dpixvid]

Did you ever buy the VSX? Want to upgrade my cans for orchestrating, sound design and film composing at the indie level. Curious how dry sample libs, wet sample libs, arranging and mixing to room emulations is valuable.

[@piyasirimusicproduction]

@@dpixvid No I didn't buy the VSX.

[@quickieswithscottechristie]

I just got FL studio producer edition. I've been watching your videos. They are the best and most in detailed thank you for all your hard work. One question. I plugged in my microphone and I'm trying to set it up but when I plug it in right away everything becomes distorted.even when I'm listening to playlists and songs on FL so basically I can't hear anything. I have done some research but I haven't come across the exact same issue. Any ideas of what the cause could be? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Thanks again.

[@WastedMeerkat1]

Sounds like either a hardware issue with your interface or possibly a software issue, check if there's updated drivers for it or if that doesn't help you might try adjusting your sample rate

[@karans265]

thanks for this video ! a few things id like to ask 1)have you compared VSX to Audeze LCD X or MM500? Completely different price range and planar magnetic but just curious how you feel about them as mixing headphones compared to the VSX? 2) which monitors do you consider PSI to be as good as? ATC SCM 25? Genelec 8341? Hedd Type 20? curious if you compared with any of these..... 3) Did you find your PSI speakers (or any others previously owned) to sound better due to better D to A conversion in the new audio interface here ? (compared to a mid tier Apollo Twin X?). 4) can you do a review on the Apollo Twin X (desktop) D to A conversion quality, and if possible compare with Lynx Hilo / RME UCX 2 / Apogee Symphony? thanks so much!

[@inthemix]

Thanks for the questions. 1) LCD X, yes. The VSX models them well but of course, they will sound different on different heads. The size, weight and fit are vastly different. LCD X would need corrective EQ and crossfeed software for them to be useful to me as a monitoring solution. The price of that all added up is eye-watering, to me! 2) The PSIs blew the ATC SCM 25 out of the water, the bass on the ATCs was, frankly, pathetic and I was not impressed with the value for money. I have not compared the PSIs to the Genelecs or Hedds but I have yet to hear a monitor of this size that is anywhere close to as good as the PSIs. They were not my first choice, I really wanted the ATCs to be the one. The care that they build these speakers with is simply unmatched imo. I wish they sponsored me because it was a big investment! 3) Surprisingly, no. When you spend £500-800 and above I can't reliably hear the difference. If you blind-tested me, I would be guessing! Below £500 there is quite a big difference in the imaging and L/R balance which a trained ear could pick up. 4) Maybe one day!

[@karans265]

@@inthemix Thanks so much for your response ! I really appreciate it! I agree that LCD X is a lot of money......it also would fall off my head if I leaned forward or looked down..... 1) do you use PSI ACTIVE 25 M? those are like $15k for a pair!! my oh my do you find the mid range on PSI to be as good as ATC? 2) regarding D to A conversion, (i) I have a question - this would only affect the quality of audio sent from laptop to speaker (if using analog connection), however, if we use a digital connection, the D to A quality would not matter? - I guess this is important because many speakers today with corrective EQ anyway convert the analog signal to a digital signal using its in built converter (ii) if we mix in the box, does it matter whether we finally bounce the track using audio interface or just from the laptop? in other words, if digital remains digital, then the audio interface would not affect the quality of the bounced file? 3) regarding the comfort of the VSX, I have a wide head, I find the Beyerdynamic 700 pro X to be pretty comfortable (the previous DT 770 was even more comfortable as it had even less clamping force), in this aspect, is the. VSX as comfortable ? Thanks so much! wish you loads of creative inspiration!

[@robertrickman3531]

I'm Currently wearing a pair of AKG240's...Love 'em

[@Lara-dr8is]

I'm also planning on buying an actual good pair of headphones somewhere in the near future and I was wondering about physical durability. For me it is important that if I'm going to spend a lot of money on something, I want it to last as long as possible. I've previously heard some good things about Beyerdynamic in that sense, also with the ability to repair things yourself if anything does break. Do you have any idea if the VSX has a similar degree of durability?