Reference monitoring for tracking, mixing, editing and streaming, centred on studio headphones from Audio Technica, Sennheiser and Shure. The range runs from workhorse closed-back models like the ATH-M50x, Sennheiser HD280 PRO and Shure SRH440A through to critical-listening designs such as the open-back SRH1840 and HD 490 PRO Plus, plus the ATH-M50xSTS streaming headsets, which add a boom microphone to the M50x platform in XLR and USB versions.

The closed versus open decision does most of the work. Closed backs isolate, which is what you need when tracking near live microphones or editing in untreated rooms; open backs trade isolation for a more natural presentation that suits mixing and long reference sessions. For streaming and broadcast, choose the headset by connection, the USB version runs straight into a computer while the XLR version is built for an existing mixer or interface. Budget models like the SRH240A and HD200 PRO cover monitoring positions, guest headphones and rehearsal rooms where a fleet of premium sets makes no sense.

Studio Headphones is the main child category here, and the wider Audio & PA department covers the microphones and cabling to go with them.