What is monitor headphones

In the market of computer accessories there is a huge variety of headphones, among which are cable, wireless, open or closed, overhead or monitor. The fact that they are, by whom and for what purposes are used the last of these types and will be discussed in this article.

What is monitor headphones

This name may be unfamiliar to the average personal computer user, since this accessory is mainly used by professional musicians in the studio, sound engineers, etc. Monitor headphones resemble ordinary overheads, but they are several times superior in sound quality characteristics, transmitting sound in its original form, which is achieved with full coverage of the ear cushions of the human ear.

Also worth noting is the significant difference in price. The cost of a monitor accessory starts from 7 thousand rubles. Acoustic sound allows a musician or a singer to control the recorded sound and refine the shortcomings. For a more complete understanding of the essence of monitor headphones, let's move on to get acquainted with their main characteristics.

Headphone monitor specifications

Fundamental when choosing monitor headphones is their amplitude-frequency response (the dependence of the signal amplitude on frequency). The best in terms of sound quality is an indicator ranging from 20 Hz to 20 kHz.

With values ​​that go beyond this gap, the sound is perceived unreliable by the human ear. The lower the frequency, the clearer the sound. A characteristic feature of the monitor variety of the accessory is its linear frequency response, in which the sound does not improve at all, but is reproduced as it was recorded in the original version. That is why it is not suitable for ordinary music lovers, as heard with this accessory does not coincide with the usual processed version.

REFERENCE! Monitor headphones designed for sound engineers and professional musicians should certainly have a high degree of detail, reflect even the smallest interferences in the recorded sound, provide an opportunity to distinguish the sound of each of the instruments used in recording.

Another important characteristic of a monitor accessory is a rather high level of resistance (above 100 Ω, usually around 250). This is because using them assumes a high input voltage level, and high impedance will help reduce the current load for the amplifier and get the best sound output.

The sensitivity indicator is responsible for the loudness of the sound, but its increase is not a priority for manufacturers, as monitor headphones are used with stationary technology to enhance the sound. The durability of the material, which ensures a long service life, is also important.

These are the main technical characteristics of such an acoustic device; now it is worthwhile to proceed to the consideration of species.

Types of monitor headphones

Traditionally, the acoustic design distinguish the following types:

  • open;
  • half open;
  • closed.

Monitor headphones are conveniently placed on the head during use, when wearing there is no pressure on the ears, which makes this look the most comfortable. The sound quality is preserved, however, due to the open design, there is a large number of extraneous sounds, which often causes inconvenience in their operation.

The second of the above types of monitor headphones is divided as a kind of open. They have a higher level of noise insulation, which allows for complete immersion in listening to music. The sound quality is not inferior to the device open.

The closed type of accessory provides the maximum level of noise isolation. It is achieved mainly due to the snug fit of the headphone to the head and, consequently, to the ears. This type is the most suitable for studio recording.

Summarizing the above, we can conclude that the monitor headphones are still a tool for music professionals and will not reveal all their properties in the process of everyday use.

Watch the video: Headphones vs Monitors. Music Production Tips (April 2024).

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