Audio-Technica ATH-M40x: Although the ATH-M50x is often in the limelight, the M40X is no slouch, and provides a less emphasized low-end.

Audio-Technica ATH-AD900X: While you don’t want to use this in the recording studio because the open-back design causes the sound to bleed through, it’s great to use during the mixing phase of music-making.

While it’s very comfortable, the size can be a bit unwieldy and you can get a better value headset.

AKG K702: This pair of open-back headphones has its place in a studio but remember that it won’t have much bass.

AKG K240 Studio: This pair of open-back headphones serve as a great alternative to the Sony MDR-7506 and feature a more modern, stylish design with larger ear cups.

While it doesn’t quite make up for years of blown out iPod buds, it was enough for a middle-of-the-pack finish. They’ve been something of a joke in the headphone industry until recently, when experts gave the new EarPods a polite nod and some decent review scores. Unfortunately, many of their other products have received mixed reviews, and regardless, you’ll end up paying a premium on anything that comes in a box labeled “Bose.” If you want a comfortable fit with top-tier noise canceling, Bose’s QuietComfort 15s actually stand up to most of the hype. Unlike Philips and Creative, Bose and Apple have a “less is more” headphone strategy, marketing just three or four flagship products at inflated prices.

For the rest of us, it’s not worth the risk.

If you’re a gambler, you might get a cheap thrill when you scoop one of these off the shelf-like ordering rare fish at a back-alley restaurant or betting on the Dallas Cowboys. The problem: they also offer dozens and dozens of less solid, less reasonably-priced products. If you know exactly what to look for, all three of these brands offer solid, reasonably-priced options (ex: some of Philips’ Fidelio line Creative’s Aurvana, over-ear headphones).

Best audio technica headphone