As a musician or music producer, having access to quality headphones is essential for producing, mixing, and mastering your music.
However, if you’re someone who travels frequently, finding the right pair of headphones that can deliver professional-grade sound while still being portable can be a challenge.
That’s where foldable studio headphones for travel come in. With their compact size and collapsible design, these headphones are the perfect solution for music producers and musicians on the go who need to produce, mix, or master their music while traveling.
In this article, we’ll be sharing our top five picks for the best foldable studio headphones for travel. We’ll discuss the key features, benefits, and drawbacks of each product to help you make an informed decision when choosing the right headphones for your needs.
Whether you’re recording music in a hotel room, on a plane, or in a different location, these headphones will make your life easier and your music sound better.
So, without further ado, let’s take a look at our top picks!
Contents
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
- Exceptional sound quality for critical listening and mixing
- Comfortable over-ear design for extended listening sessions
- Foldable design for easy storage and transport
Sony MDR-7506
- Accurate sound reproduction for critical listening and monitoring
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended use
- Collapsible design for easy storage and transport
Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
- High ambient noise attenuation for clear monitoring in loud environments
- Comfortable over-ear design for extended use
- Robust construction for durability and longevity
AKG K371BT
- Bluetooth connectivity for wireless convenience
- Exceptional sound quality for critical listening and mixing
- Compact and foldable design for easy storage and transport
KRK KNS 8400
- Accurate and natural sound reproduction for critical monitoring and mixing
- Lightweight and comfortable for extended use
- Low distortion for clear and accurate sound at all volume levels
Best Overall Foldable studio headphones for travel
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is an exceptional set of foldable studio headphones that offers incredible sound quality and comfort, making it an ideal choice for music producers and audio engineers on the go.
These headphones feature 45mm large-aperture drivers that deliver accurate and balanced audio across the entire frequency range, giving you an accurate representation of your mixes and allowing you to make critical mixing decisions with confidence.
In addition to the exceptional sound quality, the ATH-M50x is designed with comfort and portability in mind. The headphones have a circumaural design that contours around the ears for superior sound isolation, and the ear cups and headband are made with plush materials that provide a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions.
The headphones also feature a collapsible design for easy storage and transport, making them a perfect choice for musicians and audio professionals who are always on the move. Overall, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a high-quality set of headphones that provides exceptional value for its price point, and is our top pick for the best foldable studio headphones for travel.
Choosing The Best Foldable studio headphones for travel
If you’re trying to find the best foldable studio headphones for travel, there are some great options out there. Below are our top picks:
Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
Pros
- Exceptional sound quality, with accurate and balanced audio across the frequency spectrum
- Comfortable and durable design, with swiveling earcups and a detachable cable for easy storage and transport
- Versatile and compatible with a wide range of devices, including smartphones, laptops, and studio equipment
Cons
- Can be a bit heavy and bulky, which may not be ideal for long listening sessions or extended travel
- Some users may find the bass to be a bit too strong or overpowering, depending on personal preferences
- The price point may be a bit high for some users, especially those who are just starting out in music production and don’t have a large budget
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is a great choice for musicians and music producers who are always on the go. It offers exceptional sound quality with its 45mm large-aperture drivers and frequency range of 15Hz-28kHz. The headphones also have a closed-back design that provides excellent sound isolation, making them suitable for recording in noisy environments or using them in crowded places like airports or trains.
The ATH-M50x is built to last, with a sturdy construction that ensures durability and reliability. The earcups are padded and can swivel, making them comfortable to wear for long periods. Additionally, the headphones come with three detachable cables (straight and coiled), which are convenient for different setups. The foldable design also makes them easy to pack and carry in a bag or suitcase.
One area where the ATH-M50x falls short is in its lack of wireless connectivity. Some users might prefer the convenience of not having to deal with cables when traveling. However, the sound quality and durability of the ATH-M50x more than make up for this minor inconvenience. Overall, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is an excellent choice for anyone in need of high-quality headphones that are versatile, durable, and travel-friendly.
Sony MDR-7506
Pros
- Great sound quality with balanced and accurate sound reproduction
- Comfortable to wear for extended periods of time, with a lightweight design and soft ear cushions
- Durable and built to last with a solid construction and long cord
Cons
- Lacks in bass compared to some other studio headphones
- Ear cups can become hot and uncomfortable after prolonged use
- Non-detachable cord can be inconvenient for some users and increase the risk of damage or wear over time.
The Sony MDR-7506 is a popular option among musicians and audio professionals, and for good reason. These headphones deliver a crisp and clear sound with a frequency response of 10Hz-20kHz, making them perfect for studio use. They also have a closed-back design which helps to isolate external sounds, allowing the listener to focus solely on the audio they are producing.
One of the most impressive features of the Sony MDR-7506 is its durability. The headphones are built to last, with a rugged construction that can withstand daily wear and tear. The ear cups are also replaceable, which means that if they do wear out over time, you can simply replace them rather than having to buy a whole new set of headphones.
While the Sony MDR-7506 is an excellent choice for those looking for studio headphones, they may not be the best option for those who prefer a more bass-heavy sound. Some users have reported that the bass response is not as strong as they would like, which could be an issue for those working in genres such as hip-hop or EDM. Additionally, some users have reported that the headphones can feel a bit tight, especially during long listening sessions.
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Sennheiser HD 280 Pro
Pros
- Excellent noise isolation, making them great for use in noisy environments or when recording audio
- Durable build quality that can withstand frequent use and transportation
- Clear and accurate audio reproduction, allowing for precise audio monitoring during recording or mixing
Cons
- Some users may find them uncomfortable for extended periods of wear, as they can be quite tight on the head
- The cable is not detachable, making it difficult to replace if it becomes damaged
- The sound may be too flat for some listeners who prefer a more bass-heavy or colored sound signature
The Sennheiser HD 280 Pro is a popular choice for audio professionals and casual users alike. These closed-back headphones offer excellent noise isolation, making them ideal for use in noisy environments. The comfortable ear cups fit snugly over the ears, ensuring that the sound stays in and the noise stays out.
One of the key features of the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro is its wide frequency response range. This allows for accurate reproduction of audio across the spectrum, making it easy to hear subtle details in recordings. The headphones also have a strong bass response, which is particularly useful for bass-heavy music genres.
However, some users have noted that the headphones can feel a bit tight, especially when first worn. Additionally, the cables are not detachable, which may be inconvenient for some users who prefer to use different types of cables for different devices. Overall, the Sennheiser HD 280 Pro is a great choice for anyone looking for high-quality, noise-isolating headphones that offer accurate audio reproduction.
AKG K371BT
Pros
- Excellent sound quality with a balanced and accurate frequency response that captures every detail of the music.
- Comfortable fit and easy-to-use controls with Bluetooth connectivity make it a great choice for portable listening.
- The battery life of up to 50 hours ensures that you can enjoy uninterrupted music for long periods.
Cons
- The headphones do not come with a carrying case, making it difficult to transport them safely while on the go.
- The ear cups are not replaceable, so if they wear out, you will need to replace the entire headphone.
- The design is quite plain and may not be as stylish or aesthetically pleasing as other options on the market.
The AKG K371BT is a pair of Bluetooth over-ear headphones designed to deliver exceptional sound quality and comfort for extended listening sessions. These headphones feature a closed-back design that provides excellent noise isolation, making them ideal for use in noisy environments. The K371BT boasts a sleek, modern design and is available in black or silver.
The K371BT is built with high-quality materials and features large, 50mm drivers that deliver a frequency response of 5Hz-40kHz. This results in detailed, accurate sound reproduction across the entire frequency range.
The headphones are also equipped with Bluetooth 5.0 technology, providing a strong and stable wireless connection with minimal latency. In addition, the K371BT features a built-in microphone and controls for hands-free calling and media playback.
One of the standout features of the AKG K371BT is its long battery life, with up to 40 hours of playtime on a single charge. The headphones also come with a detachable cable for wired listening, as well as a carrying pouch for easy transport.
However, some users may find the ear cups to be slightly small, which could lead to discomfort during extended listening sessions. Additionally, while the K371BT delivers excellent sound quality, some users may find the bass response to be slightly lacking compared to other models in its price range.
Overall, the AKG K371BT is an excellent choice for anyone looking for high-quality Bluetooth headphones with exceptional sound quality, long battery life, and convenient features.
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KRK KNS 8400
Pros
- Accurate and detailed sound
- Comfortable fit
- Durable build quality
Cons
- Lack of bass
- Slightly bright sound
- Not ideal for noisy environments
The KRK KNS 8400 is a studio headphone that is widely popular among professionals due to its exceptional sound quality and comfortable design. These headphones are specially designed to provide accurate and transparent sound, making them ideal for mixing and mastering music. The KNS 8400 boasts an impressive frequency range of 5 Hz to 23 kHz, ensuring that every detail of your audio is captured with clarity and precision.
The headphones come with 40mm neodymium drivers that produce a natural, balanced sound with minimal distortion. The KNS 8400 also has a closed-back design, which helps to isolate external noise and prevents sound leakage.
This feature is especially useful for those working in busy environments or recording in close proximity to other musicians. The adjustable headband and soft ear cushions make these headphones comfortable to wear for long periods, ensuring that you can focus on your work without any discomfort.
One area where the KRK KNS 8400 falls short is in the bass response, which some users may find lacking. However, this can be beneficial for mixing purposes as it allows you to hear the mid and high-range frequencies more clearly without any bass frequencies masking them.
Additionally, the headphones come with a straight and coiled cable, but the cable is not detachable, which may be a drawback for some users. Overall, the KRK KNS 8400 is a solid choice for studio professionals and hobbyists alike, providing high-quality sound and comfortable design at an affordable price point.
FAQ About Foldable studio headphones for travel
Q: What are foldable studio headphones for travel?
A: Foldable studio headphones for travel are headphones that are designed specifically for musicians, producers, and audio engineers who are always on the go.
They feature a compact and lightweight design that makes them easy to carry around in a bag or suitcase. Additionally, they are foldable, which means that they can be collapsed into a smaller size, making them even more convenient to transport.
Q: What are the benefits of using foldable studio headphones for travel?
A: The main benefits of using foldable studio headphones for travel are their portability and convenience. They are designed to be lightweight and compact, making them ideal for use on the go.
They are also durable and able to withstand the wear and tear of frequent travel. Additionally, foldable studio headphones for travel are often equipped with advanced features such as noise isolation, which allows the user to focus on their work even in noisy environments.
Q: Can I use foldable studio headphones for travel for other purposes besides music production?
A: Yes, absolutely. While foldable studio headphones for travel are designed specifically for music production, they can be used for a wide range of other purposes. For example, they are great for watching movies or listening to podcasts during long flights or train rides. They are also ideal for gamers who want to immerse themselves in their favorite games while traveling.
Q: What should I look for when choosing foldable studio headphones for travel?
A: When choosing foldable studio headphones for travel, you should consider factors such as sound quality, durability, and portability. Look for headphones that are lightweight and foldable, and that come with a carrying case or bag for easy transport.
You should also look for headphones with noise isolation or noise cancelling features if you plan to use them in noisy environments. Finally, check the reviews and ratings of different models to ensure that you are getting a high-quality product.
Q: How much should I expect to spend on foldable studio headphones for travel?
A: The cost of foldable studio headphones for travel varies widely depending on the brand and features. You can find budget-friendly options for under $50, but high-end models can cost upwards of $300 or more.
In general, you can expect to pay between $100 and $200 for a good quality pair of foldable studio headphones for travel. It’s important to remember that investing in a high-quality pair of headphones can make a significant difference in your music production and overall travel experience.
Final Thoughts on Foldable studio headphones for travel
In conclusion, when it comes to finding the best foldable studio headphones for travel, it is important to consider factors such as sound quality, portability, comfort, and durability. After reviewing several options, we have determined that the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is the best choice due to its exceptional sound quality, collapsible design, comfortable fit, and durability.
However, the Sony MDR-7506 and Sennheiser HD 280 Pro are also excellent options with their own unique strengths, such as the MDR-7506’s precise audio reproduction and the HD 280 Pro’s superior noise isolation. The AKG K371BT and KRK KNS 8400 also offer impressive sound quality and portability, but may not be as comfortable for extended listening sessions.
Overall, choosing the right foldable studio headphones for travel depends on your individual preferences and needs. We hope this review has provided valuable insight to help you make an informed decision and enhance your music listening experience on the go.
 Not finding what you need in over-ear headphones? Take a look at this roundup of the best studio headphones under $100 for other styles and options.
Kevin is the founder of Music With Flavor, which joined Whipped Cream Sounds in 2023. He is a seasoned musician turned industry expert. His passion for music goes beyond melodies; he delves deep into the intricate world of music marketing, striving to unearth the most effective strategies for indie musicians. However, Music With Flavor isn’t just about Kevin’s knowledge; it’s a network of industry experts handpicked to provide the most trusted advice. Kevin’s role is to pose the right questions, not just answer them, as he and his team tirelessly research trends, connect with artists, and gather valuable insights.