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Looking for the perfect headphones to plug into your guitar amp?
Whether you’re practicing late at night, recording in your home studio, or just jamming for fun, the right headphones can make all the difference in how you hear your tone and enjoy your playing.
In this article, you’ll discover:
Which headphones deliver the best sound and comfort for guitar amps
What key features really matter for guitar practice, recording, and long sessions
Expert reviews of the top headphones that suit different styles and budgets
Ready to find your new go-to headphones and elevate your guitar playing? Let’s dive in!
1. Best overall headphones for guitar amp
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Reasons to buy
- Exceptionally balanced and clear sound
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Great build quality and folding design
Reasons to avoid
- No wireless option
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Technical Specifications
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
Driver Size | 45 mm |
Impedance (Ω) | 38 Ω |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 15 Hz – 28 kHz |
Weight | 284 g (10 oz) |
Type (Open/Closed) | Closed-back, over-ear |
Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm plug), detachable cables; includes 1/4″ adapter |
✅ Buy if you want one pair of headphones that just works — the M50x is reliable, neutral, and ideal for both practice and recording, making it one of the best headphones for guitar amp setups.
❌ Avoid if you’re after open-back space or wireless freedom — this is a pro-grade closed-back monitor.
My Experience with the ATH-M50x
I’ve been using the ATH-M50x for years, and while I’ve tested dozens of headphones with amps and amp sims, I keep coming back to this pair. They’ve been my go-to for everything from late-night jamming into my audio interface to checking tone stacks while editing demo tracks. There’s something about the way they present mids — clear, honest, no fake hype — that makes EQ tweaks and gain adjustments feel surgical.
When plugged into a Fender amp, or even into something like a Fender Mustang Micro, the M50x gives you a tight, punchy sound that doesn’t get boomy or shrill. That’s a rare quality in headphones under $200. You actually hear your tone, not a version of it.
Comfort-wise, I’ve worn these for multi-hour sessions without fatigue. The clamping force is just enough to isolate without crushing your head, and the rotating ear cups are handy if you like to monitor one ear while tracking.
Final Word
If you’re looking for a dependable pair of headphones that handle everything from clean blues to high-gain metal, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x delivers in every way that counts. It’s the kind of gear you buy once and use for years, without second-guessing your choice.
Whether you’re plugged into a traditional amp, a pedalboard with headphone out, or a full amp sim setup, this is the best overall headphone for guitar amps. Reliable, neutral, comfortable — and battle-tested by guitarists and engineers alike.
2.Best Wireless Headphones for Guitar Amp Practice
Boss Waza-Air
Reasons to buy
- Wireless freedom with no cable clutter
- Immersive 3D spatial sound with gyro sensor
- Ideal for active practice
Reasons to avoid
- Slightly heavier than typical cans
Boss Waza-Air Technical Specifications
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
Driver Size | 50 mm |
Impedance (Ω) | ? |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 300 Hz–5 kHz |
Weight | 320 g (12 oz) |
Type (Open/Closed) | Closed-back over-ear |
Connectivity | Wireless 2.4 GHz (WL-T transmitter), Bluetooth audio streaming |
✅ Buy if you hate being tethered and want a full amp experience without lugging around heavy gear or fighting cable tangles.
❌ Avoid if you want a budget option or ultra-lightweight headphones — this is for players who want serious tech and immersive sound.
My Experience with the Boss Waza-Air
If you’re anything like me—constantly pacing the room or adjusting your position mid-solo—the Boss Waza-Air is a revelation. I was skeptical at first: wireless headphones with amp modeling? But after spending several weeks with these, I can say they genuinely transform practice time.
The 3D spatial audio is not just a gimmick. When enabled, it places you in a virtual environment—studio, stage, or room—that sounds incredibly realistic. The soundstage feels open, with a natural sense of air moving around you, unlike the “in your head” feeling from most headphones. This is something you really have to hear to believe.
The wireless transmitter is rock solid with almost zero latency, so there’s no annoying delay between picking a note and hearing it. Plus, you get access to a full range of effects and amp tones right from the Katana line, controlled via the BOSS Tone Studio app. That means you’re not just getting headphones — you’re getting a complete amp rig on your head.
Final Word
The Boss Waza-Air isn’t just another pair of headphones—it’s a personal wireless amp that lets you practice with complete freedom and realism. If you hate cable clutter and crave an immersive amp experience without dragging out the full rig, this is hands down the best wireless solution available.
It’s pricey, yes, but the combination of custom amp tones, dynamic 3D sound, and zero-latency wireless makes it worth every penny for tech-loving guitarists who want to practice like they’re on stage—even if it’s just in their bedroom.
3. Best Open-Back Headphones for Studio Guitar Playing
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (250 Ohm)
Reasons to buy
- Wide, airy soundstage perfect for detailed tone work
- Transparent highs and rich, natural bass response
- Durable build quality made in Germany
Reasons to avoid
- Open-back design leaks sound, not ideal for noisy environments
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (250 Ohm) Technical Specifications
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
Driver Size | 45 mm |
Impedance (Ω) | 250 Ω |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 5 Hz – 35,000 Hz |
Weight | 250 g |
Type (Open/Closed) | open‑back over‑ear |
Connectivity | Wired only; coiled 3 m cable with 3.5 mm plug and screw-on 6.3 mm adapter |
✅ Buy if you want to hear every nuance of your guitar tone—ideal for mixing, re-amping, and detailed studio work.
❌ Avoid if you practice in noisy spaces or need isolation, as these headphones are designed for quiet, controlled rooms.
My Experience with the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
The DT 990 Pro is a staple in my studio, and for good reason. When you’re dialed into detailed tone shaping, you want headphones that reveal every subtle detail—not mask it. These open-back headphones offer a stunningly natural and spacious soundstage that makes it feel like your amp is right there in the room with you.
The highs are crisp without being harsh, and the bass response is full-bodied but never overwhelming. This clarity is crucial when you’re trying to hear subtle pick attacks or nuanced effects like reverb tails and amp hiss. The soundstage is wide, which makes mixing and layering guitars much easier.
Comfort is a big deal for me, especially during long sessions. The velour ear pads are soft and breathable, so you won’t feel hot or fatigued after a few hours. The build quality is rock solid too — these headphones have survived the bumps and drops of regular use witho
Final Word
If you’re a tone-obsessed guitarist working in a quiet studio environment, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is one of the best open-back headphones you can get. They deliver detailed, natural sound with wide spatial imaging—perfect for fine-tuning your tone and mixing your guitar tracks.
Just keep in mind, these aren’t for noisy environments, so if you jam with distractions around, you might want to look elsewhere. But for focused, professional studio work, the DT 990 Pro is a trusted classic that won’t let you down.
Also Read:Best Headphones for Electronic Drums
4. Best Studio Headphones for Guitar Recording
Sony MDR-7506
Reasons to buy
- Clear, accurate sound ideal for monitoring guitar tone
- Durable, foldable design for easy transport
- Comfortable closed-back fit blocks outside noise
Reasons to avoid
- Not wireless, so limited mobility
Sony MDR-7506 Technical Specifications
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
Driver Size | 40 mm |
Impedance (Ω) | 63 Ω |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 10 Hz – 20 kHz |
Weight | 230 g |
Type (Open/Closed) | Closed‑back, over‑ear |
Connectivity | Wired (coiled cable, non-detachable) |
✅ Buy if you need reliable, transparent monitoring for tracking and mixing—no surprises, just honest sound reproduction.
❌ Avoid if you want wireless freedom or ultra-lightweight cans for casual use.
My Experience with the Sony MDR-7506
I’ve lost count of how many recording sessions I’ve done with the Sony MDR-7506. This is a classic workhorse that never disappoints. When tracking guitar, the last thing you want is a headphone that colors your tone or adds harshness. The MDR-7506 gives you a clean, tight low end and crisp highs that reveal every nuance of your playing—so what you hear is exactly what’s getting captured.
The closed-back design helps isolate you from noisy environments, which is crucial when you’re trying to nail a perfect take. Plus, the 9.8-foot cable means you’re not tethered too close to your rig, but be careful because it’s not detachable. If you’re like me and sometimes accidentally yank your cable, keep a spare handy or handle with care.
Comfort-wise, the ear pads are plush enough for extended studio sessions, though it can feel a bit snug at first. But after a few hours, I barely noticed I was wearing them. They fold down nicely, so they’re easy to toss into your gear bag when you’re heading to the studio.
Final Word
The Sony MDR-7506 remains one of the most trusted studio headphones for guitar recording because it gets the basics exactly right: accurate tone, solid build, and reliable comfort. Whether you’re laying down clean takes in your home studio or tracking with a pro engineer, these headphones give you the honest sound you need to trust every note on tape.
If you want a classic, no-frills headphone that’s stood the test of time for professional monitoring, the MDR-7506 should be at the top of your list.
5. Best Closed-Back Headphones for Silent Guitar Practice
Sennheiser HD280 Pro
Reasons to buy
- Excellent noise isolation for distraction-free practice
- Comfortable for long sessions
- Foldable design for easy storage and transport
Reasons to avoid
- Not designed for ultra-bass-heavy genres
Sennheiser HD280 Pro Technical Specifications
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
Driver Size | 40 mm |
Impedance (Ω) | 64 Ω |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 8 Hz – 25,000 Hz |
Weight | 285 g (10 oz) |
Type (Open/Closed) | Closed-back, over-ear |
Connectivity | Wired (3.5 mm plug with included 1/4” screw-on adapter) |
✅ Buy if you live with others or in a noisy environment and need to focus without hearing dishwasher hums, traffic, or housemates.
❌ Avoid if you want wireless or ultra-lightweight headphones — these prioritize isolation and sound accuracy over portability.
My Experience with the Sennheiser HD280 Pro
Living in an apartment with thin walls, I know exactly how frustrating it is trying to practice guitar without bothering anyone—or getting distracted by outside noise. The Sennheiser HD280 Pro is my go-to for late-night sessions when I need to block everything out and just play.
The noise isolation is genuinely impressive. These headphones don’t just muffle the world; they actively shut it down. The result? Pure focus. Whether it’s the rumble of traffic or the neighbor’s lawnmower, none of it leaks in to distract your playing.
Sound quality is another strong suit. The HD280 Pro delivers a clean, balanced sound that stays true to your amp’s tone without artificial boosts. This means you get an honest representation of your playing, making it easier to detect subtle nuances and improve your technique.
The fit is snug and secure, which helps with the isolation, but some might find them tight at first. The folding design is a bonus, making it easy to pack up and take on the go, especially if you’re practicing at a friend’s place or moving between rooms.
Final Word
For guitarists who need quiet, distraction-free practice, the Sennheiser HD280 Pro is a solid, affordable choice. It excels at noise isolation without sacrificing sound accuracy or comfort, making it perfect for urban dwellers, late-night players, or anyone sharing space with others.
If your practice time is sacred and you want to really focus on your tone, these headphones will help you get there—no distractions, just pure playing.
6. Best Comfortable Headphones for Long Guitar Sessions
Sennheiser HD 599 SE
Reasons to buy
- Open-back design for spacious, natural sound
- Balanced, detailed sound for relaxed listening
- Lightweight and durable—great for long home sessions
Reasons to avoid
- Not ideal for noisy environments
Sennheiser HD 599 SE Technical Specifications
| FEATURE | DETAILS |
|---|---|
Driver Size | 38 mm |
Impedance (Ω) | 50 Ohms |
Frequency Response (Hz) | 12 – 38,500 Hz |
Weight | 255 g / 9.0 oz |
Type (Open/Closed) | Open-back, Over-ear |
Connectivity | Wired – 6.3mm (1/4″) and 3.5mm (1/8″) jacks (includes adapter) |
✅ Buy if you want the ultimate comfort and an open, airy sound for hours of relaxed guitar playing at home.
❌ Avoid if you need noise isolation or want wireless convenience.
My Experience with the Sennheiser HD 599 SE
If you’re like me and often get lost in long, laid-back jam sessions or tone exploration at home, the Sennheiser HD 599 SE quickly becomes a trusted companion. What I love most is the sheer comfort. The velour ear pads and light frame mean I can wear these for hours without that tired-ear or headband pressure feeling that so many headphones give.
The open-back design is a game changer. Instead of feeling like the sound is trapped inside your head, you get this wide, natural soundstage that almost feels like the guitar is in the room with you. It’s not about cranking the volume or forcing your way through isolation; it’s about enjoying the music in a more relaxed, spacious environment. This makes it ideal for unwinding with your guitar after a long day or gently honing your tone.
Sonically, the HD 599 SE delivers a beautifully balanced, detailed sound with crisp highs and a warm midrange that flatters clean and distorted tones alike. While not a studio monitor per se, it’s a joy to listen to, and the detachable cables add convenience when switching between devices.
Final Word
For anyone seeking the best headphones for guitar to comfortably lose themselves in the guitar for hours on end, the Sennheiser HD 599 SE delivers exceptional comfort and a wide, natural soundstage that’s a breath of fresh air. It’s not about isolation or portable convenience; it’s about a relaxed, musically engaging experience at home.
If you want a headphone that feels like an extension of your playing space—light, breathable, and musically rewarding—the HD 599 SE is a superb choice.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Headphones for a Guitar Amp
1. Impedance (Ohms)
Why it matters: Some headphones need more power to work properly. Guitar amps (especially solid-state ones) often don’t power high-impedance headphones well.
Tip: Choose headphones with low to mid impedance (under 100 ohms) unless you’re using an audio interface or headphone amp.
2. Closed-Back vs. Open-Back Design
Closed-back: Blocks outside noise, better for quiet practice.
Open-back: More natural and spacious sound, but leaks sound and picks up room noise.
Tip: For amp practice or recording, closed-back is usually better. Use open-back for mixing or detailed tone work at home.
3. Comfort for Long Sessions
Why it matters: Guitar practice or recording sessions can last hours. Heavy or tight headphones cause fatigue.
Tip: Look for models with soft padding, adjustable headbands, and lightweight builds.
4. Sound Quality and Frequency Response
Why it matters: Guitar tones have a wide range of frequencies. You want clarity, especially in mids and highs.
Tip: Look for flat or neutral sound (not too bass-heavy), so you hear your tone as it really is.
5. Durability and Build Quality
Why it matters: Headphones take a beating, especially if you’re gigging, traveling, or plugging/unplugging often.
Tip: Go for studio-grade or pro-monitor headphones with detachable cables and strong hinges.
6. Wired vs. Wireless
Wired: Zero latency, perfect for live playing and recording.
Wireless: More freedom to move, but may have slight delay (unless built for instruments like Boss Waza-Air).
Tip: Choose wireless only if it’s designed for guitar amps, not regular Bluetooth headphones.
7.Compatibility with Your Gear
Why it matters: Some headphones don’t work well with all amps. Amp headphone jacks might need a 1/4″ (6.35mm) plug.
Tip: Make sure your headphones include or support a 1/4″ adapter and are compatible with your amp or audio interface.
8. Purpose: Practice, Recording, or Mixing?
Practice: Look for isolation, comfort, and clarity.
Recording: Focus on neutral sound and accurate monitoring.
Mixing: Open-back or studio-grade headphones for detail.
Tip: Match your choice to how you’ll use them the most.
Can You Plug Headphones Directly Into a Guitar Amp?
When It Works
Most modern guitar amps include a dedicated headphone output, usually a 1/4″ jack or sometimes a 3.5mm socket. This output is designed specifically to drive headphones safely and effectively, often including speaker emulation so your headphones sound more like a real amp through a speaker, not just a raw signal.
If your amp has this headphone out, plugging your headphones in is as simple as it sounds—no extra gear needed.
What to Watch For: Speaker Emulation vs. Raw Signal
Not all headphone outputs are created equal. Some amps send a raw, unprocessed signal to the headphone jack, which means your headphones will sound flat, harsh, or just plain weird—missing the warmth and character of a speaker cabinet.
Good headphone outputs include speaker emulation or cabinet simulation, which shapes the tone to mimic the natural sound of a mic’d guitar speaker. This makes all the difference in getting a satisfying headphone tone.
Amp Modeling Units: A Better Way
If your amp lacks a proper headphone output or speaker emulation, consider a dedicated amp modeling unit like the Fender Mustang Micro or Boss Katana:GO. These compact devices plug right into your guitar, offering wireless headphone outputs or built-in speaker simulation so you get a rich, realistic tone without any extra gear.
They’re perfect if you want to practice quietly or on the go without compromising tone or convenience.
Headphones vs. Amp Sims vs. Studio Monitors – What’s Best for Practice or Recording?
When it comes to practicing or recording guitar, choosing the right monitoring setup can feel overwhelming. Here’s a quick breakdown to help you decide:
Headphones
Pros:
Portable and affordable
Great isolation for late-night practice
Accurate tone with good models and speaker emulation
Cons:
Can cause ear fatigue over long sessions
Sometimes lack the natural room feel of speakers
Ideal for: Quiet practice, late-night jamming, and tracking demos.
Amp Simulators (Amp Sims)
Pros:
Extremely versatile tones and effects
Can be used directly with headphones or studio monitors
Compact and often budget-friendly
Cons:
Requires some learning curve
Not a substitute for real amp feel for some players
Ideal for: Recording, tone shaping, and silent practice with maximum flexibility.
Studio Monitors
Pros:
Natural, room-filling sound with true spatial cues
Excellent for mixing and critical listening
No headphone fatigue
Cons:
Expensive and less portable
Not ideal for quiet or late-night practice
Ideal for: Mixing, recording, and practicing in a dedicated home studio.
Bottom Line
For most guitarists, headphones offer the best balance of convenience and tone for practice and casual recording. If you want deep tone control and recording flexibility, amp sims paired with headphones or monitors are the way to go. And if you’re serious about mixing or full production, investing in good studio monitors will pay off.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you use normal headphones for a guitar amp?
Yes, you can use normal headphones with a guitar amp—if the amp has a dedicated headphone output. Make sure the headphones have the right plug size (usually 1/4 inch) or use an adapter. However, some amps may not sound great through standard headphones unless they include speaker emulation. For best results, use studio or monitor-style headphones designed for instruments.
Are open or closed-back headphones better for guitar practice?
Closed-back headphones are better for guitar practice. They block outside noise, prevent sound leakage, and give you better isolation—ideal for quiet environments. Open-back headphones offer a more natural, spacious sound but leak sound and let in room noise, making them better for mixing or solo jamming at home.
Can I just plug my headphones into my electric guitar?
No, you can’t plug headphones directly into an electric guitar. Electric guitars don’t have a built-in headphone amp and won’t provide the power or tone shaping needed. Instead, use a guitar amp with a headphone out, a headphone amp, or a portable amp modeler like the Fender Mustang Micro or Boss Katana:GO.
How We Tested and Chose the Best Headphones for guitar amp
Each pair of headphones was tested directly with a range of guitar amps — from solid-state and tube models to popular practice amps. I played clean, overdriven, and high-gain tones to evaluate sound clarity, detail, and dynamic response.
I focused on how accurately each pair handled amp output, especially in capturing nuances like pick attack, string noise, and effects. I also assessed comfort during long practice sessions, noise isolation, and how well the headphones worked with typical amp headphone outputs.
Conclusion
We hope this guide helped you learn everything you need to know about choosing the best headphones for your guitar amp. We aimed to answer all your questions so you can pick the perfect pair that fits your style and needs.
If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out our website for many more interesting and useful articles about audio, sound gear, and music tech. And if you have any other questions or want to share your own experience, feel free to leave a comment below — we’d love to hear from you!
Keep playing and stay inspired!
Monica Rivas is a Reviewer and Content Manager of Audiofavorite, she is an audiophile for many years and she helps people to learn all they need about audio, speakers, sound etc.