The Top 5 Best Closed-Back Headphones Under $1,000

by Mark Hattar
(Updated )
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Best Closed-Back Headphones

When it comes to high-quality closed-back headphones under $1000, there's a diverse range of options catering to different preferences in sound signature, comfort, and build quality. In my testing, I've found several standout models that excel in various aspects, from clarity and bass response to overall soundstage and comfort. Here’s a detailed look at some of the top contenders:

Sennheiser HD620s

PRICE: $399.95

Offering exceptional value at its price point, the Sennheiser HD620s delivers a clear and flat sound signature with subtle bumps in the bass and treble frequencies. This makes it an excellent choice for critical listening, mixing, and monitoring purposes. During my evaluation, I found its sound profile to be well-balanced and non-fatiguing, ensuring accurate audio representation across different musical genres. Sennheiser's reference sound with a slight boost in the treble allows you to hear the most in your music, and the bass enhancement in the closed-back headphone won't be as overwhelming as you might think. 

QUICK TECH SPECS

  • Transducer: 42mm dynamic with a 38mm diaphragm
  • Frequency Response: 6Hz - 30kHz
  • Impedance: 150 Ω
  • THD: <0.05% (1kHz / 90dB SPL)

Focal Azurys

PRICE: $749

A new release from Focal in the last year has turned heads, especially for the price point relative to other Focal models. The Focal Azurys are a stunning blue closed-back headphone that is perfect for your office setup. The sound profile has a nice boost in the bass end, as well as top-end detail to get a nice balance for any track. What makes these headphones a step above the rest is the cable. The microphone on the cable makes it perfect for quick controls and phone calls, which is more than ideal for any remote worker. The Focal Azurys blend style and high-quality listening to be the perfect headphone for every use case. 

QUICK TECH SPECS

  • Transducer: 40mm aluminum/magnesium M-shaped dome
  • Frequency Response: 15Hz - 22kHz
  • Impedance: 26 Ω
  • THD: <0.3% (1kHz / 100dB SPL)

Beyerdynamic DT 1770 MK II

PRICE: $699.99

Beyerdynamic has a lot of affordable studio headphones, both open and closed-back. A step up from their popular DT 700 Pro X is the DT 1770 MK II. The DT 1770 MK II is a closed-back, reference studio headphone that gives you natural sound reproduction without the distraction from outside noise. While its balanced sound is ideal for mixing and mastering, these headphones can be used for casual listening as well as professional. These are definitely an improvement from the first iteration, which had a 250 ohm impedance and required a lot of power to drive. The MK II significantly took the impedance down and refreshed the driver inside to give you a detailed, honest sound that you can work with and just listen to for hours. 

QUICK TECH SPECS

  • Transducer: TESLA.45 drivers
  • Frequency Response: 5Hz - 40kHz
  • Impedance: 30 Ω
  • SPL: 95 dB SPOL (1mW/500Hz)

Meze Strada

PRICE: $799

For those who prefer a bassier sound profile without sacrificing clarity, the Meze Strada is an excellent option. Meze's next closed-back headphone retails for nearly $2,000, but if you're looking for something newer and cheaper, the Strada is an excellent choice. You can definitely get the stellar sound without spending over $1,000, and the Strada is a perfect example of that.  The Strada delivers consistent audio quality thanks to its high-quality construction of ebony wood material. This headphone is certainly a step above the rest in this list because it is something new and fresh, plus the easy-to-drive capabilities make this a perfect match to any setup. 

QUICK TECH SPECS

  • Transducer: 50mm Dynamic
  • Frequency Response: 5 Hz - 30 kHz
  • Impedance: 40 Ω
  • THD: <0.1% @ 1kHz

Dan Clark Noire X

PRICE: $1,099.99

Renowned for its supreme comfort, the Dan Clark Noire X headphone offers an ergonomic design that ensures long listening sessions remain enjoyable. In my opinion, it ranks among the most comfortable headphones available. The Noire X impresses with its V-shaped sound profile, delivering powerful low-end extension without compromising on clarity or balance. The treble is notably smoother compared to the bass, resulting in a well-rounded audio experience ideal for various genres. It's natural and honest sound reproduction makes it a great upgrade for people needing a studio headphone. Although the Dan Clark E3 remains a favorite amongst audiophiles, the Noire X comes in to give you sound that is just as good for nearly half the price. 

QUICK TECH SPECS

  • Acoustic Metamaterial Tuning System (AMTS)
  • Frequency Response: TBD
  • Impedance: 16 Ω
  • THD: <0.1% (1kHz / 85dB SPL)

Conclusion: Which Closed-Back is For You?

Choosing the best closed-back headphones under $1000 depends largely on personal preferences and specific use cases. Whether you prioritize comfort, sound quality, or versatility, the models reviewed here offer something for every audiophile. From the clarity and power of the Focal Azurys to the balanced sound signature of the Sennheiser HD620s, each headphone on this list represents a compelling option in its respective category. Ultimately, the right choice will enhance your listening experience, whether you're mixing music in the studio or enjoying your favorite tracks at home.

Get all the products mentioned above at Audio 46

If you need help selecting closed-back headphones, please feel free to reach out to us via email or live chat now. You can also call us at (212) 354-6424 and visit our NYC store. Our sales engineers and technicians are happy to help and/or discuss any questions you may have about headphones.

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KEYWORDS: audeze closed back, Best Focal Closed-Back Headphones, Best Value for money sennheiser headphones, closed-back, closed-back headphones, Denon, Do Focal closed-back headphones sound as good as open-back?, sennheiser


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