Should You be using the same headphones for mixing and recording?

                                    TURNS OUT NO.....

Image credit: Photo by Reynier Carl on Unsplash

FOR RECORDING:

 For recording, closed-back headphones are recommended as they isolate outside noise and prevent sound bleed into the microphone. They provide a focused and clear sound for the musician to monitor their performance. Dynamic headphones are often preferred for recording as they are more durable and can handle loud volumes without distortion. Some popular models of closed-back headphones for recording include the Shure SRH440 and Sony MDR-7506 (below).

image credit: musicians friend

FOR MIXING:

On the other hand, for mixing, open-back headphones are recommended as they provide a wider soundstage and allow for a more accurate representation of the mix. They have a more neutral sound compared to closed-back headphones and are better suited for long listening sessions when detailed adjustments are being made. Some popular models of open-back headphones for mixing include the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro and Sennheiser HD 650 (below).

Image credit: Sennheiser

CONCLUSION:

It's important to note that while having good headphones is essential for recording and mixing, it's also important to test your mix on other playback devices like speakers to ensure it translates well across different mediums.