Headphones Brands You Should Know About

headphones brands

When you’re shopping for a pair of headphones, the brand you go with matters. There’s a wide range of headphone companies out there, and each has its own unique set of strengths and weaknesses. We’ve rounded up some of the best and most famous headphones brands, as well as a handful of lesser-known names worth checking out.

Established in 1928, Neumann is a German-based company that’s well-known for its pro audio equipment like microphones and recording consoles. The company’s reputation grew even more when they introduced their first headphones in 1968, the open-back HD 414 model. These headphones were the first of their kind and remained a top-selling option for decades. Today, Neumann’s headphones are primarily used by musicians and studio engineers for live performance and in-studio recording.

Another major name you’ll recognize is Shure. Founded in 1924, Shure initially produced headset microphones to ensure clear communication for pilots during World War II. When the war ended, the company started producing a huge selection of pro audio gear, from mics to phonograph cartridges and more. Their headphones quickly became popular in Plattenbars (record bars) in Germany, and the brand has since remained one of the most recognizable headphones brands in the world.

Audio-Technica is a Japanese electronics manufacturer known for their extensive range of headphones and other music production gear. The company’s M-Series headphones are a go-to for many musicians and at-home producers, with a range of closed-back models to choose from. More recently, Audio-Technica has diversified their offerings with wireless models, active noise cancelling headphones, and even Bluetooth models for casual listening.

JBL is an American manufacturer that produces a variety of different types of headphones. The company is a subsidiary of Harman and most of their headphones offer a neutral default sound profile that’s ideal for casual listening and Hi-Fi. However, select models feature excited bass and treble responses that’ll please EDM and hip-hop fans, and some are compatible with the JBL Headphones app for EQ customization and more.

Anker is a portable battery and accessories maker that has branched out into headphones under its Soundcore label. The company offers a wide range of wireless options, including some of the best true wireless earbuds and high-performance headphones. Many of their models include advanced features like aptX and LDAC support for superior streaming quality, as well as an inline microphone that can take calls.

Sony is a giant in the headphones industry, delivering a wide selection of closed-back and open-back models. Their MDR-MV1 headphones were built with long listening sessions in mind and earned them a TEC Award for their innovative design. More recently, the company has expanded its headphones offering to include immersive spatial audio and head-tracking capabilities. Their high-end X-1ZR headphones are some of the best in the business.