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Headphones with the best soundstage create a realistic and expansive three-dimensional audio experience. This is especially important for gamers, who need to be able to hear where their enemies are coming from, as well as for music lovers who want to feel like they’re in the middle of their favorite band’s live performance.
In this article, we will explore the best headphones for soundstage, as well as what makes them so special. We’ll also provide a buyer’s guide to help you choose the right pair of headphones for your needs.
What is Soundstage?
Soundstage is the perceived width, depth, and height of an audio experience. A good soundstage will make you feel like you are in the middle of the music, with instruments and vocals placed around you in a realistic way.
Headphones can create a very wide and robust soundstage, making the listener feel as if they are surrounded by the music.
Factors that contribute to headphone soundstage
There are a few factors that contribute to headphone soundstage.
Driver Size
The first is driver size. Larger drivers tend to create a wider soundstage, while smaller drivers create a more intimate experience.
Headphone Design
The other factor is headphone design. Open-back headphones allow sound to flow more freely around the ears, creating a wider and more spacious soundstage. Closed-back headphones provide isolation from external noise but can result in a narrower and more focused soundstage.
Open-back vs closed-back headphones
Open-back headphones have several advantages when it comes to soundstage.
First, they tend to have larger drivers, which create a wider soundstage.
Second, the open design allows sound to flow more freely around the ears, resulting in a more spacious and realistic experience.
Closed-back headphones have their own advantages as well.
They provide isolation from external noise, which can be helpful in noisy environments. They also tend to have a more focused soundstage, which can be advantageous for some types of music.
External noise and sound leakage
Another important factor to consider is external noise and sound leakage. Open-back headphones tend to leak more sound, which can be problematic in quiet environments. They also allow more external noise to enter the ear, which can be distracting.
Closed-back headphones provide better isolation from both external noise and sound leakage.
This can be helpful in both noisy and quiet environments.
Active Noise Cancellation
Finally, depending on your environment, Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) can be an important factor to consider.
Active noise cancelling headphones work by creating an opposite sound wave to cancel out external noise. This can be effective in reducing low-frequency noise, such as the rumble of an airplane engine.
However, it is important to note that ANC can also reduce the sound quality of music. If you’re looking for the best soundstage possible, you may want to avoid ANC headphones.
Open-back headphones generally don’t provide good isolation from external noise, so ANC can be helpful in noisy environments.
Closed-back headphones usually provide better isolation, but there are some excellent ANC closed-back headphones available if you need that extra level of noise reduction.
Comfort
Comfort is another important factor to consider when choosing headphones. If you plan on wearing your headphones for long periods of time, it’s important to choose a pair that is comfortable to wear.
Headphones with larger drivers can be heavier and more cumbersome, so they may not be as comfortable to wear for long periods of time.
Open-back headphones can also be less comfortable to wear, as they allow more sound to enter the ear.
If you’re looking for a comfortable pair of headphones, closed-back headphones may be a better option.
Audio Quality and Use
You will want to consider what you will be using the headphones for when choosing which type to buy.
If you are looking for headphones to use while working out or commuting, you will want a pair that is durable and can withstand sweat and moisture.
If you plan to do mixing and mastering, it is important to find a set of headphones that have a neutral sound so that you can make accurate adjustments.
If you are a gamer, you will want a pair of headphones with a good soundstage so that you can hear where your enemies are coming from.
Finally, if you are a music lover, you may want a pair of headphones that create an immersive and realistic experience.
Portability
You will also want to consider how portable the headphones are. If you plan on traveling with them, you will want a pair that is lightweight and can be easily packed.
If you are looking for a pair of headphones to use at home, portability may not be as important of a factor.
Price
Finally, you will want to consider your budget when choosing which type of headphones to buy.
Headphones with the best soundstage can be expensive, so you may want to choose a more affordable option if you are on a tight budget.
If you are willing to spend more, you will be able to find headphones with a better soundstage and higher quality materials.
Ultimately, the best way to experience the biggest soundstage headphones is to try out different headphones and see what works best for you.
Buyer’s Guide: Headphones With the Best Soundstage
When choosing headphones with the best soundstage, there are many choices and it can quickly become overwhelming. Below I have listed my favorite moderate and cheap headphones with the best soundstage.
How We Tested
These headphones were tested using a variety of music genres including classical, rock, and hip-hop. I also used them while gaming and watching movies to test the immersive experience. I took into account the sound quality, comfort, and price when making my selections.
The following headphones are my picks for the best moderate and cheap headphones with the best soundstage.
Open-Back Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $2000
Often times, you get what you pay for when it comes to audio equipment. If you are looking for open-back headphones with the best soundstage and are willing to spend more, you will want to consider the following options.
Sennheiser HD 800
Sennheiser HD 800 S Over-the-Ear Audiophile Reference Headphones
Open-Back Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $2000
The Sennheiser HD 800 is a high-end pair of open-back headphones that offers an expansive and realistic soundstage.
These headphones are handmade in Germany and use only the highest quality materials.
The drivers are large and offer a wide frequency response.
The ear cups are well-padded and the headband is adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit.
The Sennheiser HD 800 comes with a detachable cable and a hard carrying case. Even with an inexpensive headphone amp like the Topping DX3, the HD 800 produces clear and accurate sound that will satisfy even the most demanding audiophile with it’s wide frequency range and better sound quality than many more expensive headphones.
These headphones are expensive, but they offer an exceptional listening experience and are one of the best audiophile headphones sound wise.
Pros:
– Exceptional sound quality
– Wide frequency response
– Handmade with high quality materials
– Comfortable to wear
– Comes with a carrying case
Cons:
– Expensive
– Others have likened the HD 800 series to being distant-sounding, and I definitely agree with them; because they don’t give me that sensation of hearing directly to the waveform without anything in between you and the music, which I’ve gotten from many other planar headphones.
Audeze LCD-X
Open-Back Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $2000
If you’re looking for headphones with the best soundstage, the Audeze LCD-X should be at the top of your list. These headphones create a realistic and expansive three-dimensional audio experience, making them ideal for gamers who need to be able to hear where their enemies are coming from, as well as for music lovers who want to feel like they’re in the middle of their favorite band’s live performance.
The Audeze LCD-X uses patented planar magnetic technology to produce some of the clearest and most accurate sound available, and their wide frequency response means that you’ll be able to hear all the details of your favorite songs.
These headphones are also extremely comfortable, thanks to their soft earpads and light weight.
Focal Clear MG
Focal Clear MG Open-Back High-Fidelity Over-Ear Headphones
Open-Back Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $2000
The Focal Clear MG is a great choice if you’re looking for headphones with the best soundstage.
The speaker cones are made of special magnesium cones that provide clear, precise impactful playback, resulting in stunningly realistic soundstage.
The ear cups are well-padded and the headband is adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit.
The Focal Clear MG comes with a detachable cable and a hard carrying case.
Pros:
– Precise, impactful soundstage
– Magnesium speaker cones for clear sound
– Comfortable to wear
– Comes with a carrying case
Cons:
– Expensive
HIFIMAN Arya Planar Magnetic Headphones
HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Version Over-Ear Planar Magnetic Headphone
Open-Back Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $2000
The soundstage on the HIFIMAN Arya is stunning. It’s wide, open, and airy, with a great sense of depth and space. The instruments and vocals are well-defined and located in their own distinct areas, and there’s a good sense of front-to-back layering. The sound is also incredibly clear and detailed, with a great sense of detail and resolution.
The bass is deep, tight, and well-controlled, while the mids and highs are smooth and present without sounding harsh or fatiguing. Overall, the sound is simply stunning, and the Arya is easily one of the best sounding headphones for soundstage that I’ve heard.
Open Back Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $1000
The headphones below offer a great price to performance ratio and are some of the best bang for your buck when it comes to soundstage.
beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO
beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro Open Studio Headphones
Open-Back Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $1000
When it comes to soundstage, the beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO is in a class of its own. These headphones create an incredibly wide and spacious soundscape, making them perfect for enjoying music and movies.
The soundstage is so well-defined that you can easily pick out individual instruments and sounds, even in complex arrangements. The vividness and detail of the sound is truly astonishing, and it’s easy to get lost in the music with these headphones on.
HIFIMAN Ananda
Open-Back Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $1000
Just like we seen with the Arya, the HIFIMAN Ananda has a wide, open, and airy soundstage with great depth and space. The instruments and vocals are well-defined and located in their own distinct areas, and there’s a good sense of front-to-back layering.
The sound is also incredibly clear and detailed, with a great sense of detail and resolution. The bass is deep, tight, and well-controlled, while the mids and highs are smooth and present without sounding harsh or fatiguing. Overall, the sound is simply stunning, and the Ananda is another great choice for headphones with the best soundstage.
Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $500
For most of us, this is the sweet spot in terms of price and performance. The headphones below offer great soundstage at a more affordable price.
AKG Q 701 Quincy Jones Signature Reference
Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $500
The AKG Q 701 are a pair of over-ear, open-back headphones that offer a wide soundstage and clear, detailed sound quality. They have a self-adjusting headband and earcups that make them comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and they come with a detachable cable. The Q 701 are one of the better-sounding pairs of headphones in their price range, with a wide soundstage that gives instruments and vocals plenty of room to breathe.
The highs are crisp and detailed, while the lows are tight and well-defined. If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that will provide an immersive listening experience, the AKG Q701 should be at the top of your list.
HIFIMAN SUNDARA
HIFIMAN SUNDARA Over-Ear Full-Size Planar Magnetic
Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $500
Planer magnetic headphones deliver some of the most expansive and realistic soundstages and the budget Hifiman Sundra are no exception. They are one of my top picks for the best headphones under $500 and their soundstage is a big part of the reason why.
The Hifiman Sundara uses patented planar magnetic technology to produce clear and accurate sound, and their wide frequency response means that you’ll be able to hear all the details of your favorite songs.
These headphones are also extremely comfortable, thanks to their soft earpads and light weight.
AKG 712
Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $500
One of the many things that AKG does well is soundstage. The AKG 712 creates a realistic and expansive three-dimensional audio experience, making them ideal for gamers who need to be able to hear where their enemies are coming from, as well as for music lovers who want to feel like they’re in the middle of their favorite band’s live performance.
The AKG 712 uses patented driver technology to produce some of the clearest and most accurate sound available that rivals many planers. Their wide frequency response means that you’ll be able to hear all the details of your favorite songs.
Sennheiser HD660S
Headphones With the Best Soundstage Under $500
The Sennheiser HD660S is a great choice if you’re looking for headphones with the best soundstage. The speaker cones are made of special aluminum/copper alloy that provides clear, precise and accurate playback, resulting in stunningly realistic soundstage.
The only downside is that the HD660S can be a bit thin in the sub bass. If you’re willing to overlook this minor drawbacks, then the HD660S is definitely worth considering
Closed Back Headphones with the Best Soundstage
Finding the best soundstage in a closed-back headphone is more difficult due to the design. If you are looking for closed-back headphones with the best soundstage, the following headphones offer the best soundstage in a closed-back design.
Sony MDRZ1R Signature
Closed Back Headphones with the Best Soundstage
Any audiophile will tell you that soundstage is everything. And the Sony MDRZ1R Signature headphones deliver in this department. With a wide soundstage, these headphones create an immersive listening experience that is sure to please even the most discerning listener.
The sound is clear and well-defined, with a rich and full bass response. The highs are sparkling and detailed, without being harsh or fatiguing. And the mids are well-balanced and natural sounding. In short, these headphones sound simply outstanding. If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that will take your listening experience to the next level, the Sony MDRZ1R Signature headphones are definitely worth checking out. Just make sure you have your wallet handy as they do not come cheap.
Beyerdynamic T5
Closed Back Headphones with the Best Soundstage
There’s something about the soundstage of the beyerdynamic T5 that just sucks you in. Whether you’re listening to music or watching a movie, the soundstage creates an immersive experience that is simply unmatched.
The sound is so well-rounded and natural that you really feel like you’re in the middle of the action. And the best part is that this soundstage is created without sacrificing any of the detail or clarity that you expect from high-end headphones.
Audeze LCD-XC
Closed Back Headphones with the Best Soundstage
The Audeze LCD-XC is an outstanding pair of headphones. They have a wide soundstage that allows you to hear all parts of the soundscape clearly. The highs are precise and detailed, while the lows are deep and well-defined. The sound is well-balanced and natural, making them a pleasure to listen to.
The Audeze LCD-XC should be at the top of your list as it is amazing the soundstage and imaging they create in a closed back design.
Best Moderate and Cheap Priced Closed-Back Headphones for Soundstage
Below are some of the best moderate and cheap priced closed-back headphones that offer great soundstage.
Focal Listen Professional
Focal Listen Professional Closed-Back Circul-aural Headphones
Best Moderate and Cheap Priced Closed-Back Headphones for Soundstage
If you’re looking for a professional sound system that can produce a wide soundstage, the Focal Listen Professional is worth considering. This sound system uses cutting-edge technology to create a soundstage that extends beyond the speakers themselves. This gives you the feeling that you’re surrounded by sound, making it ideal for listening to music or watching movies.
The Listen Professional also features a built-in subwoofer, which provides deep, powerful bass. Overall, this sound system provides an immersive listening experience that is sure to please even the most discerning audiophile.
Beyerdynamic DT 770
Best Moderate and Cheap Priced Closed-Back Headphones for Soundstage
If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that will completely immerse you in your music, then you need to check out the Beyerdynamic DT 770. These headphones provide an incredible soundstage, making it feel like you’re right there in the studio with the artist. The DT 770 is also one of the most comfortable headphones for glasses wearers with the adjustable, padded headband.
The sound is so clear and accurate that you’ll be able to pick out every detail in the mix. The DT 770 has been one of my favorite tracking cans for as long as I can remember. And because the soundstage is so wide, you’ll never feel like the music is cramped or confined. If you’re looking for a truly immersive listening experience, the Beyerdynamic DT 770 are the headphones for you.
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Studio Monitor Headphones
Best Moderate and Cheap Priced Closed-Back Headphones for Soundstage
If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that will provide excellent sound quality, comfort and durability, then the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x are a great option to consider. These headphones feature large 45mm drivers that deliver clear sound with a wide soundstage. They’re also very comfortable to wear, thanks to their padded ear cups and adjustable headband.
And they’re built to last, with a tough construction that can withstand plenty of wear and tear. So if you’re in the market for a high-quality pair of headphones, the ATH-M50x are definitely worth checking out.
Sennheiser Professional HD 280 PRO
Best Moderate and Cheap Priced Closed-Back Headphones for Soundstage
Sennheiser’s Professional HD 280 Pro headphones are designed for sound engineers, musicians, and other audio professionals. The headphones have a wide soundstage that helps to give a clear, accurate representation of the soundscape due to their neutral sound profile.
They also have a high level of noise isolation, which is essential for blocking out distractions when working in noisy environments. The headphones are comfortable to wear for long periods of time, and they’re durable enough to withstand repeated use.
Overall, the Sennheiser Professional HD 280 Pro headphones are an excellent choice for anyone in need of a high-quality, professional-grade headphone with good audio quality.
Headphones with the Best Soundstage for Gaming
Any of the picks above will offer you a great soundstage for gaming but you may be looking for more functionality for gaming such as a mic. If this is the case and you are looking for headphones with the best soundstage for gaming, you will want to consider the following options. These will create the biggest soundstage giving you an immersive gaming experience while providing important gaming feautes such as a mic.
SteelSeries Arctis 7P
SteelSeries Arctis 7P Wireless Gaming Headset
Headphones with the Best Soundstage for Gaming
When it comes to gaming, the Arctis 7P are the best of the best. They have great features for gaming such as a detachable mic and low latency. They also create an expansive soundstage that will make you feel like you are in the game.
They were our top pick for the best gaming headset this year and are sure to give you an immersive gaming experience.
SteelSeries Arctis Pro
SteelSeries Arctis Pro Wireless Gaming Headset
Headphones with the Best Soundstage for Gaming
If you are not restrained by budget and looking for the best sound quality and soundstage from a gaming headset, the SteelSeries Arctis Pro are the way to go. They offer an expansive and realistic soundstage that will make you feel like you are in the game.
They also have great features for gaming such as a detachable mic and low latency. If you are looking for the best of the best, the SteelSeries Arctis Pro are the way to go.
Bose QuietComfort 35 Series 2 Gaming Headset
Headphones with the Best Soundstage for Gaming
The Bose QuietComfort 35 Series 2 Gaming Headset are a great choice for those looking for headphones with the best soundstage for gaming. They offer an immersive and realistic soundstage that will make you feel like you are in the game.
They also have great gaming features including a detachable mic and very low latency.
Best Cheap Gaming Headset with A Great Soundstage
If you are on a tight budget but still want a great soundstage for gaming, you will want to consider the following headsets. Some of these also appeared on our best gaming headsets under $100 and over an overall excellent gaming experience.
Corsair HS70 Pro
Best Cheap Gaming Headset with A Great Soundstage
If you’re looking for a top-notch gaming headset, the Corsair HS70 Pro is definitely worth checking out. This headset features 50mm neodymium drivers that deliver rich, immersive sound, and the wide soundstage ensures that you’ll be able to hear enemy footsteps perfectly.
The detachable microphone is also great for chatting with friends or teammates, and the noise-cancelling feature ensures that your voice will come through loud and clear. Plus, the ear cups are padded for comfort, and the headset is lightweight so you won’t get fatigued during long gaming sessions. Overall, the Corsair HS70 Pro is a great choice for any gamer who wants excellent sound quality and a comfortable fit.
Beyerdynamic MMX 100
Best Cheap Gaming Headset with A Great Soundstage
The beyerdynamic MMX 100 is a high-end gaming headset that promises an immersive sound experience. But does it deliver? I put the MMX 100 to the test to find out.
First, I tested it with some of my favorite games. And I have to say, I was impressed with the soundstage. The stereo sound was clear and precise, and I could easily locate enemies by sound alone.
Next, I tried watching a movie. Again, the soundstage was excellent. The dialogue was crisp and distinct, and the surround sound gave me a real sense of immersion.
Finally, I listened to music. And here, too, the MMX 100 did not disappoint. The bass frequencies are deep and impactful, and the highs were clear and sparkling. All in all, the beyerdynamic MMX 100 is a great choice for gamers who are looking for an immersive sound experience.
HyperX Cloud II
Best Cheap Gaming Headset with A Great Soundstage
The HyperX Cloud II is a gaming headset that offers excellent sound quality and comfort. It features a large soundstage that creates a spacious and enveloping soundscape. This makes it ideal for gaming, as it allows you to hear both your teammates and your opponents clearly.
The Cloud II also has great bass response, which adds weight and impact to explosions and gunfire. The mid-range is clear and detailed, while the highs are crisp and well-defined. Overall the Cloud II is an excellent headset for gamers who are looking for exceptional sound quality on a budget
Sennheiser GSP 300
Best Cheap Gaming Headset with A Great Soundstage
Sennheiser’s GSP 300 gaming headset offers high-quality sound in a comfortable and durable design. One of the standout features of the GSP 300 is its soundstage. This gives you a wider soundscape to work with, making it easier to pinpoint enemy locations in games that require fast reflexes.
The headset is also comfortable to wear for long periods of time, thanks to its padded headband and ear cups. The GSP 300 comes with a detachable microphone that can be muted with the touch of a button. And if you want to use the headset for music listening, there’s also a 3.5mm audio jack included on these cheaper headphones.
Noise Cancelling Headphones with the Best Soundstage
Sometimes you work or travel in a noisy environment but you can still get a big lush soundstage with great instrument separation. Below is my top pick for wireless headphones with the best soundstage that features active noise cancellation.
Sony WH-1000XM4
Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones with the Best Soundstage
If you’re in the market for a new pair of noise-cancelling headphones, the Sony WH-1000XM4 should be at the top of your list for blocking out ambient noise. These are some of the best headphones and they are incredible. They offer some of the best sound quality you’ll find in any pair of headphones on the market today.
One of the things that makes the sound quality so good is the soundstage. This is a term used to describe how wide and spacious the sound is. With other headphones, you might feel like the sound is coming from inside your head. But with the WH-1000XM4, it feels like you’re sitting in a concert hall with perfect acoustics.
The sound is just that clear and immersive. If you’re looking for a truly exceptional pair of the best headphones to create an accurate stereo image, you can’t go wrong with the Sony WH-1000XM4.
Bose QuietComfort 35 II
Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones
Noise Cancelling Headphones with the Best Soundstage
The Bose Quietcomfort 35 II offers great soundstage for an over ear headphone. The active noise cancelling feature is great for working or traveling in noisy environments. The ear cups are comfortable and the headband is adjustable, so you can find the perfect fit.
The Bose Quietcomfort 35 II also has a built-in microphone, so you can use it for making calls on zoom meetings or for communicating in your game. And if you want to use it with an airplane entertainment system, there’s an adapter included.
Benefits of Soundstage in Headphones
The main benefit of soundstage in headphones is that it creates a realistic and immersive experience. If you’re gaming, it can help you locate your enemies. And if you’re listening to music, it can make you feel like you’re in the middle of a live concert.
Another benefit of soundstage is that it can help to reduce fatigue. When you’re using headphones for long periods of time, it’s important to find a comfortable pair that won’t put too much pressure on your ears. Headphones with a good soundstage can help to take the pressure off of your ears and prevent fatigue.
Finally, soundstage can also help to improve the quality of your audio. If you’re using headphones to listen to music or watch movies, you’ll want to make sure that the sound is as clear and immersive as possible. Headphones with a good soundstage can help to provide you with the best possible audio experience.
Conclusion
Now that you know what to look for and our picks for the top headphones with the best soundstage, you can choose the right pair of cans to create your own personal soundscape. Whether you’re using them for gaming, music listening, or both, a great set of headphones with a expansive soundstage can really add another dimension to your audio experience.
Have any questions or suggestions? Let us know in the comments below! And be sure to check
FAQ
Below are answers to some common questions related to headphone soundstage:
Can you get soundstage from headphones?
Yes, you can definitely get soundstage from headphones. In fact, some headphones are specifically designed to create a spacious and realistic soundscape. If you’re looking for headphones with the best soundstage, be sure to check out our list above.
How can I make my headphones soundstage and sound quality better?
You can make your headphones soundstage better by choosing a pair of headphones that are specifically designed for soundstage. Alternatively, you can try using an equalizer to create a more spacious sound.
If your headphones sound thin, using a headphone amp like the Schiit Magni 3 or Heresy can also help to create a bigger sound.
Do I need a headphone amp for soundstage?
No, you don’t necessarily need a headphone amp for soundstage. However, if your headphones sound thin or lack bass, a headphone amp can help to improve the sound quality. In addition, a digital audio converter (DAC) can be adding to the signal chain to improve the sound quality of your music.
