1
AUDEZE LCD-1
Audeze’s flagship LCD-4s will set you back nearly four grand but their more reasonably priced LCD-1s have been a hit with pros. Reveal software maps your ear and contains mappings for several famous studios so you can mimic the listening position of an iconic studio control room.
£399, (Aprox R7980.00) audeze.com
2
AKG K872/K712 PRO
AKG is another maker favoured by many mix and mastering engineers. The K872s sit at the luxury end with off-the-chart specs and build quality. The K712 PROs are aimed at the mid-price market and are revered for their low end reproduction by producers on a budget.
£185, (Aprox R3700.00) akg.com
3
SENNHEISER HD650/HD800S
The latest isn’t always the greatest, and much as HD25s are industry standard in the booth, Sennheiser’s HD650s have a similar rep in the studio. The HD800S has more spacious ear cups and premium audio and build quality, with a price tag to match.£399.99 (Aprox R7980.00) sennheiser.com
4
FOCAL LISTEN/HEAR PRO
Two price points for two different sets of needs from a company with a rep for excellence in monitors and high-end hifi. If you’re on a budget, the Listen Pros are exceptionally good value. If you’re a pro or an engineer the Hear Pro is for you; both are lightweight and comfy.
£165 (Aprox R3300.00) , focal.com
5
BEYERDYNAMIC DT 1990 PRO
Beyerdynamic’s DT 770/880/990 Pro range were studio staples in the 80s and 90s. All three updates feature fans’ requested updates. The open-back 1990s are for production not recording (go for closed-back, bass boosted 1770s) and have DT’s comfy earcup design.
£369 (Aprox R7380.00) global.beyerdynamic.com
