10 Best Wired Headphones 2025 in the UK

The Audio-Technica M50x Professional Monitor Headphones are highly praised for their excellent sound quality, making them a top choice among audio engineers and reviewers. These headphones feature proprietary 45 mm large-aperture drivers with rare earth magnets and copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils, which contribute to their impressive sonic performance. With a frequency range of 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz, they cover a wide spectrum of sound, ensuring detailed audio reproduction. The sensitivity rating of 99 dB means they can produce high volume levels without much power, which can be beneficial for professional monitoring purposes. The impedance of 38 ohms strikes a good balance, making them compatible with various devices, including smartphones and professional audio equipment.

The comfort and fit are also commendable, thanks to the professional-grade earpad and headband material that offers durability and extended use without discomfort. The circumaural design helps with sound isolation, making them suitable for use in noisy environments. However, they are not entirely noise-canceling, which might be a drawback if complete isolation is needed. The detachable cable design adds convenience and flexibility, with two cables included to suit different needs. While the build is primarily plastic, it is still robust and durable. At 290 grams, they are lightweight and portable, though some may find them slightly bulky for on-the-go use.

The inclusion of a 3.5 mm jack ensures compatibility with a wide range of devices. These wired headphones are particularly well-suited for professional settings, studio use, and critical listening. While they may be overkill for casual listeners, their performance justifies the investment for those seeking high-quality audio reproduction.

The beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro Over-Ear Studio Monitor Headphones are well-suited for professional mixing, mastering, and general listening, whether at home or in the studio. These headphones are known for their high sound quality, offering transparent and spacious audio with strong bass and treble, which is excellent for detailed and critical listening tasks. The open-back design contributes to a more natural and wide sound stage, though it might not be ideal if you need noise isolation, as it allows external sounds to mix into your audio experience.

Comfort is a significant strength due to the soft, replaceable velour ear pads that provide a pleasant fit during long sessions. The build quality is robust, with a durable plastic and aluminum construction that promises longevity. However, the open-back design can be a drawback for users requiring better noise isolation. The 80 Ohm impedance means they can be driven by most audio interfaces, though higher quality sources may be needed to fully realize their potential. The cable is not detachable, which might limit convenience and flexibility.

At 96 dB sensitivity, they deliver adequate volume levels without needing extremely high power sources. These headphones are not ideal for use in noisy environments due to their passive noise cancellation. With a weight of 340g, they are reasonably lightweight, adding to their comfort for extended use. In summary, the DT 990 Pro headphones excel in sound quality, comfort, and durability, making them a great choice for studio use, though they may fall short in environments where noise isolation is critical.