Headphones Basics and Types
There are many different types of headphones available that have specific purposes. Headphones can assist technicians with mixing or troubleshooting live performances. A set of “quality” headphones should be able to replicate the “highs, midrange, and lows” necessary for the best frequency response and monitor sound sources with crystal clear fidelity. You can perform a simple procedure to test headphones (covered on another page).
Developed to provide accurate and well-balanced audio, the SRH840A Professional Monitoring Headphones are optimized for critical listening and studio monitoring. A precisely tailored frequency response and 40mm neodymium dynamic drivers deliver rich bass, clear mid-range, and extended highs. A wide, padded headband and collapsible design combine with Shure’s durability to provide the ultimate listening experience.
The Threaded 1/4″ TRS to 1/8″ TRS connector/adapter is a very useful adapter. This adapter lets you use one set of headphones with the two most popular headphone input jacks. Otherwise, you would need two sets of headphones with different connectors.
Ear Buds – Bluetooth / Wired
Bluetooth earbuds are very popular, there are hundreds of choices, and most models come with ANC. Sound quality, battery life, and connector stability have improved (especially on current models). Wired earbuds can still be somewhat convenient – especially when your wireless earbuds require a charge. Audio technicians should understand how to connect all kinds of devices via Bluetooth.
Blue Tooth Earbuds
Wired Earbuds
Noise Cancelling Headphones
The technology is called “Active Noise Cancellation” (ANC), also referred to as “Automatic Noise Cancellation.” ANC technology works by first having a microphone capture unwanted ambient sounds (noise) and then having an internal amplifier create sound waves that are “out of phase” with these unwanted ambient sounds. The two combined “out of phase” signals (sounds) will cancel each other out.
Broadcast / Gaming Headphones
Broadcast and Gaming Headphones have built-in microphones and noise canceling and are built for extra comfort. Both types are known for their excellent sound quality. Gaming types of Headphones are designed to help immerse the “gamer” into the experience and can offer “true” surround sound.
Headphone Amplifiers
As an audio technician, you will come across or eventually find a use for a headphone amplifier. This Whirlwind model has four output channels that can drive headphones or earbuds (one signal input feeds all four headphone outputs). Each channel has its own volume control, and both 1/4″ and 3.5mm (1/8″) headphone jacks are available.
