These Are the Best Headphones for Drummers

Disclaimer: “As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.”

Want headphones that sound great, feel comfortable, and protect your ears while you play?

Whether you practice, record, or play live, the right headphones make all the difference.

In this article, you’ll learn:

best headphones for drummers

✅ The best headphones for drummers in different situations

✅ How to pick headphones that fit well and sound clear

✅ Why protecting your hearing matters

✅ What to consider before buying—comfort, noise isolation, and more

Let’s find the perfect headphones to help you play your best!

1. Best overall headphones for drummers

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 Ohm

beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 80 Ohm
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 80 Ohm Technical Specifications

FEATURE DETAILS
Type
Over Ear
Noise Isolation
Yes
Frequency Response
5 Hz – 35,000 Hz
Impedance (Ohms)
80 ohm
Sensitivity (dB)
96 dB SPL
Connectivity Technology
Wired

✅ Buy if you need one pair of headphones that can do it all

❌ Avoid if you want something super portable or Bluetooth


🎧 My experience with the DT 770 Pro

Let me be blunt: these are the headphones I trust most when I sit behind the kit. I’ve used the DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm) for everything — tracking in the studio, running backing tracks live, even practicing at home late at night. The sound is clean, accurate, and just tight. There’s no artificial bass bloat, no muddy mids — just a crisp mix with enough low-end punch to keep your kicks and toms alive.

The passive isolation is good enough to play along with acoustic drums without blowing your ears out, and it’s way better than most consumer headphones. You can still hear your click and backing tracks clearly — even with a heavy-handed drummer in the room (yes, I tested it with one).

Comfort-wise? I’ve worn these for 3-hour sessions without ear fatigue. The velour pads feel soft, the headband doesn’t clamp too hard, and they stay put — even when I’m moving around the kit.

These headphones are built to take abuse, and you can feel it — steel headband, thick cable, no plastic wobble. They’re not the newest or flashiest, but honestly, that’s part of their charm.

🧠 Final Verdict

If you’re a serious drummer looking for one pair of headphones that can cover all the bases — studio work, quiet practice, mixing, or even live monitoring — the Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro (80 Ohm) is the safest bet.

They don’t have the flash of newer models, but what they do have is years of proven performance, durability, and comfort that’s hard to beat. I still use them to this day — and I’ve tried a lot.

2. Best headphones for recording drums

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x

Audio-Technica ATH-M50X headphones
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid

Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Technical Specifications

FEATURE DETAILS
Type
Over Ear
Noise Isolation
Yes
Frequency Response
28000 Hz
Impedance (Ohms)
38 Ohm
Sensitivity (dB)
99 dB
Connectivity Technology
Wired

✅ Buy if you need honest, precise sound for tracking or mixing

❌ Avoid if you’re after casual listening or ultra-wide soundstage


🎧 My experience with the ATH-M50x

I’ve used the ATH-M50x for recording dozens of drum sessions in both home and professional studios. If you’re a drummer who records and mixes your own stuff — or even just wants to hear the cleanest possible playback of your takes — this is one of the most accurate and revealing headphones out there.

What immediately stood out to me was the clarity in the high-mids and upper frequencies — perfect for picking up hi-hat nuances, cymbal detail, and room mic coloration. Kick drums punch, snares crack, and the overheads translate really naturally. These don’t sugarcoat the sound, and that’s exactly what you want when tracking drums or mixing a kit in the box.

They’re also incredibly durable. I’ve tossed them in gear bags, accidentally sat on them (true story), and they just keep going. The ear pads have held up better than most headphones I’ve owned, and replacements are cheap if needed. The detachable cables are a nice bonus — especially when one inevitably gets yanked or kinked in a studio tangle.

Isolation is solid — not as extreme as Vic Firth’s practice cans, but enough to track acoustic drums without bleed becoming a huge issue. If you’re tracking in the same room as your drums, you’ll still hear them — but your click and playback will come through clean.

🧠 Final Verdict

If you’re a drummer who records at home, mixes your own projects, or works in a pro studio environment, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x should be on your desk or in your gear bag — period.

They’re not the flashiest or trendiest, but the sound accuracy, durability, and no-BS reliability make them a long-term investment for anyone serious about drum recording. I’ve used mine for years, and they’ve never let me down — even in critical sessions.

3. Best headphones for loud acoustic drums

Vic Firth SIH3

Vic Firth SIH3 Stereo Isolation Headphones
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid​

Vic Firth SIH3 Technical Specifications

FEATURE DETAILS
Type
Over Ear
Noise Isolation
Yes
Frequency Response
20HZ – 20kHZ
Impedance (Ohms)
32 Ohm
Sensitivity (dB)
25 dB
Connectivity Technology
Wired

✅ Buy if you need protection from LOUD acoustic drums

❌ Avoid if you want full-range studio monitoring


🎧 My experience with the Vic Firth SIH3

If you’ve ever walked out of rehearsal with your ears buzzing, you already know why these matter.

I’ve used the Vic Firth isolation headphones for years — from the older SIH1 to this much-improved SIH3, and I can confidently say: this is a must-have for loud acoustic environments.

When I’m bashing away in a tight room, especially on a snare-heavy or cymbal-heavy kit, these are what I reach for. They cut enough volume to protect your ears, but still let your playing come through clearly — that’s a hard balance to strike, and these do it well.

The 25dB of passive isolation doesn’t feel overly claustrophobic, and compared to using earplugs and separate headphones (which I’ve tried), the SIH3 is just simpler and more effective. They’re not made for critical studio work, but for practice, rehearsals, and even tracking in high-volume situations, they’re perfect.

And unlike in-ear monitors that might fall out or feel weird during a long practice session, these stay locked in and comfortable enough to wear for hours. The padded headband and foam ear cushions are basic, but they get the job done — and I haven’t had any comfort issues even after 2+ hour sessions.

🧠 Final Verdict

If you’re a drummer who plays a loud acoustic kit regularly, you owe it to yourself (and your future hearing) to own a pair of Vic Firth SIH3 headphones.

They’re not going to wow you with mixdown detail — but that’s not what they’re for. They give you enough sound quality to hear your playing, enough isolation to stay safe, and enough durability to handle daily use in any practice setup.

If I could go back in time and hand these to my 18-year-old self in the garage band days, I would. Every rehearsal warrior needs a pair.


4. Best noise-isolating headphones for drummers

Direct Sound EX-29 Plus

Direct Sound EX-29 Plus
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid

Direct Sound EX-29 Plus Technical Specifications

FEATURE DETAILS
Type
Over Ear
Noise Isolation
Yes
Frequency Response
20-20,000 Hz
Impedance (Ohms)
32 Ohm
Sensitivity (dB)
114 dB
Connectivity Technology
Wired

✅ Buy if you need maximum isolation to stay focused and protect your ears

❌ Avoid if you want a “hi-fi” or open, airy listening experience


🎧 My experience with the EX-29 Plus

These headphones aren’t flashy — but if you’re a drummer who values focus, ear protection, and no distractions, the Direct Sound EX-29 Plus is one of the best isolation headphones for drummers you can own.

I’ve recommended these to clients who were tracking drums in small studios and dealing with massive acoustic bleed. One drummer I worked with said wearing them felt like entering a bubble — everything external just faded out, leaving them with the click and mix, clear and contained.

What sets them apart isn’t just the isolation (though it’s impressive) — it’s that they do this passively, without electronic noise-canceling. That means no batteries, no hiss, and no risk of weird cancellation artifacts. Just natural, physical sound blocking. For drummers prone to sensory fatigue or distraction, this is a game changer.

In my sessions, they also held up well under pressure. The 9-foot cable gives plenty of room to move, and the build feels like it’s made for actual working musicians — not casual listeners. Yes, they’re a bit heavier and not quite as plush as high-end studio cans, but that’s the trade-off for that kind of isolation.

If you’re rehearsing in a garage next to a guitar amp stack, or trying to track a clean take without click bleed into your overhead mics — this is your go-to headset.

🔊 Final Verdict

For drummers who get overwhelmed by noise, distracted by small sounds, or just need to protect their hearing in chaotic environments, the Direct Sound EX-29 Plus are hard to beat. These aren’t lifestyle headphones — they’re a serious tool for serious work.

If you’re after maximum focus and clean takes without bleed, this is your secret weapon.


5. Best headphones for electronic drums

Roland VMH-D1

Roland VMH-D1
Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid

Roland VMH-D1 Technical Specifications

FEATURE DETAILS
Type
Over Ear
Noise Isolation
Yes
Frequency Response
5 Hz to 40,000 Hz
Impedance (Ohms)
32 Ohm
Sensitivity (dB)
100 dB ±3 dB.
Connectivity Technology
Wired

✅ Buy if you want the best possible sound experience from your e-drum kit

❌ Avoid if you’re mostly using an acoustic kit


🎧 My experience with the VMH-D1

As someone who regularly plays Roland V-Drums and hybrid kits, I couldn’t wait to try the VMH-D1, especially knowing it was a collaboration between Roland and V-MODA — two heavyweights in e-drumming and headphone design.

First thing I noticed? The sound is dialed in perfectly for electronic kits. You get tight, well-defined low-end (crucial for feeling your kick), crisp mids for snares and toms, and enough brightness to bring out cymbal samples without sounding harsh or artificial.

The comfort level is insane. Big, plush memory foam ear pads hug your head without clamping too hard. I’ve worn these for 2+ hour sessions doing MIDI recording, jamming to tracks, and even working on drum mixdowns — no fatigue at all. The long 3-meter cable and cable routing system behind the neck? Absolute game-changer. You can move freely without snagging anything, which is a massive quality-of-life win for e-drummers.

These cans also completely shut out the clickety-clack of rubber pads and triggers, so you’re fully immersed in your module sounds. And if you’re running a Roland TD-27 or TD-50 with ambient effects or layered samples, the VMH-D1 actually lets you hear those subtle layers that cheaper headphones often miss.

🧠 Final thoughts

The Roland VMH-D1 isn’t just another pair of headphones with a drum logo slapped on it — it’s a legitimately pro tool made for the exact needs of electronic drummers. If you’re using a V-Drums kit (or any modern e-kit), this is hands down one of the most complete monitoring solutions out there.

Between the comfort, thoughtful design, and studio-ready tuning, it’s a must-have for anyone doing serious work on an electronic kit — whether you’re practicing silently, performing, recording MIDI, or dialing in a hybrid live rig.


6. Best budget in-ear monitors for drummers

Shure SE215

Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid

Shure SE215 Technical Specifications

FEATURE DETAILS
Type
In Ear
Noise Isolation
Yes
Frequency Response
22 Hz to 17.5 kHz
Impedance (Ohms)
17 Ohm
Sensitivity (dB)
37 dB
Connectivity Technology
Wired

✅ Buy if you’re just getting into live playing and want solid, road-ready in-ears

❌ Avoid if you’re seeking pro-level monitoring or wide stereo imaging


🎧 My experience with the SE215

When I started playing gigs with a click track and backing tracks, I needed something simple, reliable, and clear — and the Shure SE215 absolutely delivered. For a beginner or intermediate drummer stepping into the world of in-ear monitoring, these hit the sweet spot between performance and price.

What stood out immediately was how much ambient noise they blocked. On a loud stage, I could still hear the click and backing without cranking the volume to painful levels. The foam and flex tips give you enough customization to get a solid seal — which, for live drummers, is everything.

Sound-wise, they’re clear and focused. You won’t get the multi-dimensional imaging of something like the Shure SE846 (which we’ll get to later), but you will get a tight, detailed sound that’s plenty accurate for live playing. Kick, snare, and click are all clean in the mix — and that’s what matters most on stage.

The over-ear fit is secure and doesn’t budge even when you’re sweating through a full set. And the detachable cable? A huge bonus. I’ve had cables go bad on other IEMs — with the SE215, it’s just a swap, not a full replacement.

🧠 Final Verdict

If you’re a drummer just stepping onto the stage — whether it’s Sunday morning at church, a local venue, or your first small tour — the Shure SE215 are the best way to start with in-ear monitors without torching your wallet.

They’re reliable, simple, and built with the same road-tested DNA as Shure’s high-end options. I’ve recommended these to countless players over the years, and I still keep a pair as a backup — they’ve saved me more than once.

7. Best professional in-ear monitors for drummers

Shure SE846

Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid

Shure SE846 Technical Specifications

FEATURE DETAILS
Type
In Ear
Noise Isolation
Yes
Frequency Response
15 Hz–20 kHz
Impedance (Ohms)
9 Ohm
Sensitivity (dB)
114 dB
Connectivity Technology
Wired

✅ Buy if you’re a touring or session drummer who needs ultimate audio precision

❌ Avoid if you’re on a budget or don’t need surgical-level clarity

🎧 My experience with the SE846 on stage and in the studio

Let’s be real: if you’re stepping onto pro stages or laying down high-stakes sessions, your monitoring setup cannot be a weak link. That’s where the Shure SE846 earns its reputation.

When I first used these on tour, what blew me away was the depth and separation. The kick thumps, the snare cuts, and overheads shimmer — and none of it feels hyped or overly “hi-fi.” You’re hearing the truth, exactly as it is. And when you’re syncing to tracks, click, or backing vocals in a high-pressure environment, that accuracy matters more than anything.

What also stands out is the isolation. Even on noisy festival stages with side-fills cranked and guitar amps blazing, the SE846 gives you that clean, focused mix without needing to crank volume dangerously high. It’s easier to protect your ears when your gear is doing the work for you.

The interchangeable nozzles are more than a gimmick — I actually use the “warm” filter when I want a bit more body in the low end for certain mixes, and the “bright” one when I’m rehearsing complex parts and need to spotlight hi-hats or ghost notes.

Comfort-wise, once you find the right ear tip (they give you a dozen options), they stay locked in. Even during sweaty sets or double-bass-heavy workouts behind the kit, they never budged. The over-ear cable routing helps with that.

And the Kevlar-reinforced cables? Tour-worthy. I’ve seen drummers accidentally yank these things mid-show, and they just keep going.

🧠 Final Verdict

If you’re a pro drummer doing live shows, sessions, or arena tours, the Shure SE846 is one of the most precise, durable, and and customizable in ear headphones for drummers available — full stop.

They’re expensive, yes — but they’ve earned their place in my rig through consistency, reliability, and sound quality that never gets in the way of performance. These aren’t headphones. These are tools for professionals.

8. Best in-ear monitors designed for drummers

Drumeo EarDrums

Reasons to buy
Reasons to avoid

Drumeo EarDrums Technical Specifications

FEATURE DETAILS
Type
In Ear
Noise Isolation
Yes
Frequency Response
20Hz-20kHz
Impedance (Ohms)
18 Ohm
Sensitivity (dB)
97 dB
Connectivity Technology
Wired

✅ Buy if you want plug-and-play IEMs built just for drummers

❌ Avoid if you need ultra-precise monitoring for live gigs


🎧 My experience with the Drumeo EarDrums

This is one of those products where the name says it all — these were made by drummers, for drummers, and it shows.

As someone who’s spent a lot of time practicing with lesson platforms and teaching students online, I totally get the appeal here. You just want something that’s simple, sounds clean, fits comfortably, and won’t blow your ears out when you crank the click. That’s exactly what Drumeo EarDrums are built to do.

When I tested them during a few play-along sessions, what I noticed right away was the strong passive isolation — it made hearing the track and click track much easier, even while playing on a louder acoustic kit. The ear tips seal nicely, and the cable doesn’t feel cheap or tangle easily like a lot of IEMs at this price point.

The sound is balanced and clear, with decent low-end for kick drum feel and no harshness in the highs. These aren’t reference-level monitors, but they’re more than enough for practicing, online lessons, or even streaming drum content. They plug right in and just work — which is what most modern drummers really want when they’re learning or creating.

🎯 Final Verdict

The Drumeo EarDrums aren’t trying to be everything — they’re just exactly what the modern practicing drummer needs. They’re simple, affordable, and purpose-built to make your sessions better. If you’re looking for reliable drummer headphones that keep things focused and frustration-free, these are a great choice.

What to Consider When Choosing Headphones for Drumming

What to Consider When Choosing Headphones for Drumming

Everything that actually matters – no fluff, no filler.

Choosing the right headphones for drumming isn’t just about brand names or specs — it’s about how they feel, perform, and hold up in real-world practice, recording, or live scenarios. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned player, here are the real factors you need to weigh.


Noise Isolation: Passive vs. Active

Passive noise isolation (physical ear sealing) is usually the go-to for drummers. It blocks out acoustic kit noise without introducing latency or requiring batteries — think Vic Firth SIH2 or Drumeo EarDrums.

Active noise cancellation (ANC) is rare (and not ideal) for drummers, especially live. ANC can introduce a slight delay, which is a dealbreaker when you’re locked in with a click or backing track.

Go passive if you want real-time, consistent isolation
❌ Skip ANC unless you’re only using them for casual listening


🎧 Comfort & Fit (Because You’ll Be Wearing Them for Hours)

Drumming isn’t a 15-minute affair — you’re practicing for hours, recording takes, sweating on stage. Your headphones need to stay comfortable, stay in place, and not cause fatigue.

  • Over-ear models like the DT 770 Pro offer plush padding and breathable materials

  • In-ear monitors like the Shure SE215 are ultra-light and great for drummers who move a lot

If they hurt after 30 minutes, they’re the wrong pair — no matter how good they sound.


🎵 Sound Quality & Clarity (Accuracy Over Hype)

Drummers don’t just need thump — they need accurate representation of every frequency:

  • Kick and floor toms? You want tight, controlled low end

  • Cymbals and ghost notes? Clear highs without harshness

  • Mix clarity? You should hear your playing in the context of the track

Some headphones boost bass or over-color the sound — not ideal for mixing or critical practice. Look for a flat or neutral response, like the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x.


🔌 Cable Length & Placement (It Matters More Than You Think)

A cable that’s too short is useless at the kit. Too long? You’re tangled every time you sit down.

Look for:

  • Detachable cables — easier to replace or reroute

  • Long enough for studio kits or live rigs (3 meters is a solid sweet spot)

  • Downward cable exit — better than cables that stick out awkwardly or add weight

This is an overlooked feature that separates cheap headphones from gig-ready ones.


💪 Durability (Because Drumming Is Hard on Gear)

Between sweaty sessions, stick hits, pack-outs, and travel — drumming is brutal on headphones. You want:

  • Reinforced headbands and hinges (no creaky plastic)

  • Replaceable parts (like pads and cables)

  • Models known for lasting years, not months

Headphones like the Direct Sound EX-29 or DT 770 Pro are built like tanks and worth the upfront cost.

🥁 Playing Situation: Acoustic vs. Electronic vs. Live

You can’t choose the best headphones until you’re clear on how you’ll actually use them.

  • Acoustic drums – Prioritize isolation and durability (Vic Firth SIH2, EX-29)

  • Electronic kits – Go for clean, responsive audio (Roland VMH-D1, ATH-M50x)

  • Live performance – You want pro-level IEMs (Shure SE846, SE215)

  • Practice / Drumeo / play-alongs – Get comfort + clarity (Drumeo EarDrums)

No one pair is perfect for everything. That’s why this guide covers the best in each category.


💸 Budget vs. Performance (What’s Actually Worth Your Money)

You don’t need to spend $800 to get great headphones. But going too cheap usually means:

  • Bad isolation

  • Harsh sound

  • Uncomfortable fit

  • Breaks in a month

Our picks range from affordable gems (like the Shure SE215) to pro-tier tools (like the SE846). We’ve tested and reviewed with value in mind, not just price tags.

Protecting Your Hearing as a Drummer

Protecting Your Hearing as a Drummer

Because your ears are your most valuable instrument.

As a drummer, your ears take a serious beating. Between the constant thump of the kick, the sharp snap of snares, and the crashing cymbals, it’s easy to push your hearing to the limit. Protecting your hearing isn’t just smart — it’s essential for a long, healthy drumming career.


🔇 Why Isolation Matters

Good noise isolation isn’t just about hearing the click track or mix better — it’s about blocking out enough volume to protect your ears. When you can’t hear clearly, the instinct is to crank the volume louder, which leads to damage over time.

Proper isolation lets you keep your monitoring volume at safe levels while still hearing every detail of your playing and the music around you.


🎚️ Safe Volume Levels

Experts recommend keeping your headphone volume below 85 dB for extended sessions. That means if you find yourself turning the dial past halfway or needing to shout to hear yourself, your headphones likely don’t isolate well enough.

  • Use headphones with great passive isolation

  • Take regular breaks every 45-60 minutes

  • Monitor your volume to avoid fatigue or ringing ears

Trust me — your ears will thank you decades down the road.


🛡️ Passive Isolation vs. Earplugs vs. Active Noise Canceling (ANC)

  • Passive isolation uses physical barriers — thick ear pads or in-ear tips that seal your ear canal. This is the gold standard for drummers because it blocks out the harshest external noise instantly, with no latency or electronics.

  • Earplugs are great for live shows or rehearsals where you just want to lower volume without losing clarity. Custom molded plugs or high-fidelity options are best — cheap foam plugs can muffle too much.

  • Active Noise Canceling (ANC)? Not recommended for drummers. ANC uses microphones and electronics to cancel out noise, but it can introduce delays or phase issues, which mess with your timing and feel — a dealbreaker for precise drumming.

 


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What headphones do drummers use?

Drummers often use closed-back or in-ear monitor headphones that offer strong noise isolation and clear sound. Popular choices include the Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO, Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, and Drumeo EarDrums, as they’re designed to handle high sound pressure and provide accurate monitoring in loud environments.


Should drummers wear headphones?

Yes, drummers should wear headphones to protect their hearing and improve sound clarity. Headphones help reduce exposure to loud volumes, provide a consistent monitoring mix, and are essential for playing with metronomes, backing tracks, or electronic kits.


How do drummers protect their ears?

Drummers protect their ears by using isolation headphones, earplugs, or in-ear monitors that block out harmful noise levels. Many also keep their volume levels safe during practice and use proper sound-dampening gear to reduce long-term hearing damage.


What is the best type of headphones for drumming?

Closed-back over-ear and in-ear monitor (IEM) headphones are the best types for drumming. Closed-back models block external noise, while IEMs provide a snug fit and great isolation for live or studio settings.


Can you use regular headphones for drumming?

No, regular headphones usually don’t offer enough noise isolation or durability for drumming. They may distort at high volumes and won’t protect your ears during loud practice sessions or gigs.


Do electronic drummers need headphones?

Yes, headphones are essential for electronic drummers to hear the drum module clearly. They allow for quiet practice and help drummers hear every nuance of their playing without external distractions.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Headphones for Drummers

We tested each pair of headphones while playing electronic drums and acoustic kits to evaluate clarity, isolation, and durability. We focused on how well they handled kick, snare, cymbals, and fast playing dynamics. Comfort was tested during long sessions to check for pressure, sweat, and fatigue. For wired models, we checked cable length and strength. For wireless ones, we tested latency and battery life.

We also listened to music across genres to assess overall sound quality—especially low-end response and crisp highs. To finalize our picks, we cross-referenced expert reviews, user feedback, and real-world use by drummers.

Conclusion

I hope you’ve learned everything you need to know about choosing the best headphones for drummers.

We aimed to answer all your questions and help you find the perfect fit for your needs. If you enjoyed this article, be sure to check out more great content on our website about audio, sound, and music gear.

And if you have any other questions or want to share your experience, feel free to leave a comment below — we’d love to hear from you!

Leave a Comment