So you’re in the market for a beginner guitar. It might be for yourself, your kid, a loved one or a good friend. You can quickly look up and buy a cheap instrument from a massive online retailer – think Amazon, Argos (UK), Walmart (USA) and Aldi (EU), or second-hand and classified ad sites like eBay, Gumtree and Craigslist.

But there are some important reasons as to why you should steer clear of buying a guitar, drum kit, keyboard or any other instrument from these websites. While the prices are attractive and the purchase process is straightforward, you don’t know that you’re going to get a reliable instrument. Quite simply, they don’t have your best interests at heart. So what’s the answer?

Here’s why we think you should buy your first guitar from a music shop:

1. You get to choose from a wide range of instruments
2. They don’t stock rubbish
3. You get more for your money
4. The experts look after you and your instrument
5. They’ll introduce you to the community

N.B. while we’ve written this article based on guitars, the same points also apply to other instruments like bass guitars, acoustic guitars, digital pianos, drums and percussion, and much more.

1. You’ll Get Plenty of Choice

You can buy a generic entry level guitar from pretty much any large retailer – but what about a guitar you’d actually like to look at and play? To state the obvious, buying your first guitar is an incredibly important and exciting step in your musical journey and you’ll want a guitar to continue to inspire you to keep practicing every time you pick it up to play.

When you buy from a music shop, you’re presented with a huge number of options tailored specifically for musicians. You can get a better idea of what you like the look of, what suits your style and feels comfortable. If you’re able to visit a music shop in person, you can feel and listen to the guitar too! This will help you make a more informed choice. Regardless of whether you’re at a shop or just browsing on a guitar shop’s website, the staff will be able to guide you in the right direction with expert advice – more on that later.

2. They Don’t Stock Rubbish!

Not only do you get a wider variety of instruments to choose from in a music shop, but the quality is far, far superior to that of large generic retailers. Music shops are not going to stock guitars simply because they’re made on the cheap. The people who own and run music stores know what they’re buying and take great pride in stocking legitimately good guitars across all price ranges. You’re getting the real deal rather than buying unknown brands or copies.

Reputable music shops stock some of the best brands in the business including Squier, EastCoast, Yamaha, Ibanez, Epiphone and loads more. These guitar builders cater to professional musicians, so you know that you can trust them!

3. You Get More For Your Money

We all love a bargain, and while you might be able to buy a guitar from a larger retailer for around £80, it will almost certainly be terribly made, it’ll barely last a year and there’s a good chance it will put you off playing the instrument entirely.

Spend even a little more at a guitar shop and you won’t regret it. EastCoast guitars are the very best entry level guitars around and their electrics start from just £99. They feel good to play, sound excellent and will last you the entirety of your formal years. The beginner guitar bundles we offer includes everything you need to get started, like a guitar amp, gig bag, guitar stand, strap, picks and a cable at a discounted price.

4. Experts Look After You & Your Instrument

Buying from a music shop is a personal, enjoyable experience that you’ll remember for a long time to come. Whether you pay a visit to the shop itself or shop online, your custom is valued and you’ll always be taken good care of as you get to take your time browsing instruments.

Here at Andertons, all our staff love making music and bring their own specialist knowledge in across every department. You don’t get that from any old shop. You can ask for personal advice and recommendations and take the opportunity to sit with the instruments if you’re there in person. Our experts can play them for you too, to get an idea of how they sound in experienced hands. Let’s say you decide to buy an instrument; it doesn’t end there. It’ll come arrive with you ready to play. You’ll receive all the advice you need on getting started as well as suggestions for accessories and upgrades you might want or need down the line.

If you’ve got any questions or issues, you can always call or pop into the shop. How do I re-string my guitar? How do I connect my keyboard to my computer? Most reputable music retailers like us have friendly teams on hand to deal with any enquiries.

5. They’ll Introduce You to the Community

For many musicians, beginner or veteran, learning an instrument is more than just a hobby. It sounds cliché, but it’s a way of life. When you decide to pick up a new instrument, you become part of a community and when you buy from a music company, you’re sure to get a warm welcome. As a family-run business for over 50 years, it’s how we do things at Andertons Music Co.

This means everything from tips on tuition and finding guitar, piano and drum lessons, to an insight into what’s to come. Local events, big releases, music news, helpful guides and articles (much like this one, we hope!) and more. You’re part of the family now!

Are Second-Hand Instruments Good for Beginners?

Some people consider second-hand instruments to be a viable choice for beginners. The main draw is the price, where the likelihood of grabbing a bargain is good on sites such as eBay and Gumtree.

Although finding a gem is possible, most of the time second-hand starter instruments will be duds. Whether they’ve been left banished in damp-ridden closets for years, or simply mistreated by their owners, there’s always an element of risk when it comes to buying second-hand gear – especially more affordable instruments.

Most beginner instruments are constructed from cheaper materials to keep their costs low, so they can be more susceptible to wear and tear. Of course, we’re not saying that you should avoid second-hand musical equipment at all costs. In fact, we have our very own dedicated second-hand section featuring some amazing gear. However, with cheaper instruments we’d always recommend trying them out before buying!

Andertons Music Co. – The Best Musical Instrument Store in England?

OK, we might be a little biased but whether you’re local to the Guildford & Surrey area or a musician living in Brighton, Bristol or London looking for your first guitar, Andertons is just a short trip away. We’re 45 minutes by train from London and just over an hour in the car from Brighton and the South Coast. You’ll find the best selection of guitars, pedals, amps, synths, drums and more – all at competitive prices with friendly faces to answer your questions. Find out more about our shop opening times and location and plan your visit!

Find out more

If you enjoyed reading this, check out the rest of our learn articles. If you want to know more about buying for beginners then head over to our site to browse our comprehensive catalogue!

Featured Products

Professional PA Systems You Can Trust

If you’re on the hunt for a professional PA system, there’s a pretty strong chance that QSC Audio is already on your radar – and for very good reason. With their premium build quality, powerful sound, and expert engineering, QSC have certainly earned their reputation as an S-tier speaker manufacturer, delivering top-notch audio in venues, rehearsal spaces, and mobile rigs around the world. Once you’ve decided to follow the QSC path, there’s a whole new dilemma you’ll need to contend with: C Class or K Class? What’s the real difference, and which one is the right choice for you?

QSC Loudspeakers

Browse QSC Loudspeakers

In this guide, we’re going to break it all down. We’ll take a closer look at both the CP Series (C Class) and K.2 Series (K Class) models to help you decide which QSC PA system is the best fit for your specific needs. We’ll cover all the key features and strengths, and we’ll also examine a few ideal use cases for each range. To wrap everything up nicely, we’ll also take a quick run through some related gear that could be just what you need to round out your PA rig, including the KC12 column system and KS Series subwoofers.

QSC Trademark Quality

Before we dive into the differences, let’s take a quick look at what they’ve got in common. Importantly, both speakers come loaded with QSC’s trademark attention to quality and reliability. And whether you go for the C Class or the K Class, you’re still going to get the same generous six-year warranty upon registration.

That attention to detail and extended warranty mean you can rest easy knowing you’ve got a solid speaker unit that will serve your purposes beautifully. From here on, the two ranges start to go in different directions.

QSC C Class vs. K Class Loudspeakers

At first glance, the C Class and K Class ranges might look similar. After all, they’re both active loudspeakers with a smart design and a host of versatile applications. However, scratch beneath their rugged exteriors, and you’ll find a few key features that cater to different use cases.

QSC C Class

The QSC C Class range is split into two solutions.

QSC CB Loudspeaker

The CB10 is a compact, battery-powered loudspeaker system offering unrivaled audio performance and versatility. It features a 10-inch LF driver, 1-inch compression driver and 3-channel mixer for microphones, instruments and Bluetooth® streaming. Ideal for DJs, event professionals and musicians, it offers easy plug-and-play operation and customization via the QSC Loudspeaker Control app.

QSC CB Loudspeaker

Ever seen a Fender Strat or Tele that looks a little different from the norm, maybe with a rare finish, unusual pickups, or eye-catching appointments? You might just have stumbled upon an FSR model! Short for ‘Fender Special Run’, these guitars and basses offer unique spins on classic Fender designs, produced in limited quantities and often exclusive to certain retailers.

Whether you’re a collector, a mod-loving player, or just looking for something a little different, Fender FSR guitars are where creativity and rarity collide. But what exactly are FSR guitars, and what makes them so special? Let’s take a closer look.

What are Fender FSR Guitars?

Fender is every bit the same boundary-pushing company as they were in the 1950s, and their FSR Series is the proof. You’ve no doubt seen Fender’s extensive standard guitar ranges, as well as all their amps and pedals, but they’re a creative bunch and like to spice up those stock designs from time to time. FSR is where they bring their coolest ideas to life!

FSR stands for ‘Fender Special Run’, and it does exactly what it says on the tin. The Fender team switch out the components of their classic instruments with fresher, unique features. Where your run-of-the-mill Player Strat consists of a “C”-shaped maple neck, Alder body and stock pickups, an FSR equivalent might opt for a “U”-shaped neck, Basswood body, hotter vintage pickups and a drippy new finish. They essentially bridge the gap between standard Fender runs and the prestigious Fender Custom Shop offerings – custom specs without the hefty price tag!

In the world of professional audio recording, few tools shape the sound of a performance like a great microphone, the most iconic mics in history have shaped countless legendary tracks. From the golden age of crooners to modern-day chart-toppers, vintage studio microphones are prized for their character, warmth, and unmistakable tone. But with original models fetching eye-watering prices of about 6 months rent, building a dream mic locker can seem out of reach. Fortunately, modern engineering has brought faithful recreations within reach. In this blog, we spotlight legendary studio microphones and highlight affordable Warm Audio alternatives that deliver the same sonic magic, without the vintage price tag.

Top Studio Microphones

Neumann U47 – Iconic Condenser Microphone for Professional Recording

A true titan in the world of studio microphones, the Neumann U47 is a vintage legend. Known for delivering rich, upfront vocals, this large-diaphragm condenser microphone has recorded artists like Frank Sinatra, David Bowie, and Chris Cornell. Originally produced between 1947–1963, its German engineering set the benchmark for professional recording equipment.

• Ideal For: Lead vocals, acoustic instruments, broadcast
• Original Price: £15,000+
• Modern Alternative: Warm Audio WA-47 – Vintage-style tube condenser microphone for pro and home studio recording

Neumann U87 – The Ultimate FET Condenser Microphone for Home Studios

Synonymous with modern pop hits, the Neumann U87 is one of the most widely used FET condenser microphones in the world. Built in the 1960s, it features a hi-pass filter, 10dB pad, and selectable polar patterns. Artists from Paul McCartney to Ed Sheeran have used this mic in hit recordings.

• Ideal For: Vocals, piano, strings, voiceover
• Original Price: £3,000 – £4,000
• Modern Alternative: Warm Audio WA-87R2 – Affordable FET microphone ideal for high-fidelity home recording

Royer R-121 Ribbon Microphone – A Modern Classic for Electric Guitar Recording

Launched in 1998, the Royer R-121 redefined ribbon mic usage, especially on loud sources like guitar amps. With a smooth frequency response and robust build, it’s a favorite in many recording studios for capturing natural electric guitar tones.

• Ideal For: Electric guitar cabinets, brass, drum overheads
• Original Price: £1,300
• Modern Alternative: Warm Audio Fen-tone – Vintage ribbon tone reimagined for modern recording studios

Neumann U47 FET – The FET Microphone Standard for Kick Drums & Vocals

Engineered in 1969, the Neumann U47 FET replaced the original U47 tube mic with solid-state reliability. It excels in high-SPL applications, making it a go-to for kick drums, bass amps, and gritty vocal tracks. Used by legends like Bon Scott and Dave Grohl.

• Ideal For: Kick drums, vocals, amps
• Original Price: £4,000+
• Modern Alternative: Warm Audio WA-47F – A studio-grade FET microphone perfect for detailed instrument and home recording use

AKG C414 – The Workhorse Condenser Microphone for Any Recording Studio

The AKG C414 is a staple condenser microphone in every serious studio. With an extended frequency response and clean, transparent sound, it shines on everything from vocals to drums. Artists like Freddie Mercury and Green Day have tracked iconic records using this mic.

• Ideal For: Vocals, drum overheads, acoustic guitar
• Original Price: £1,000 – £7,000
• Modern Alternative: Warm Audio WA-14 – A versatile studio condenser microphone that delivers clarity and tone for home recording studios

RCA 44 Ribbon Microphone – Vintage Studio Microphone with Timeless Tone

Before condenser mics ruled the studio, the RCA 44 ribbon mic was king. Favored by icons like Elvis Presley and Nat King Cole, this mic delivers silky vocal tone and vintage warmth. It’s still a powerful tool for engineers looking for old-school vibe.

• Ideal For: Vocals, upright bass, room mics
• Original Price: £2,500 – £7,000
• Modern Alternative: Warm Audio WA-44 – A faithful ribbon recreation bringing classic tone to modern recording setups

Sony C800G – The Condenser Microphone of Choice for Modern R&B and Hip-Hop

The Sony C800G rose to prominence in the 90s with its unmatched clarity and smooth highs. Used by Eminem, Mariah Carey, and Drake, it’s a vocal mic that delivers crystalline detail with modern reliability, making it a top choice for high-end vocal recording studios.

• Ideal For: Vocals, R&B, hip-hop, pop
• Original Price: £11,000+
• Modern Alternative: Warm Audio WA-8000 – An elite condenser microphone crafted for clean, present vocal recording in any studio setting

AKG C 24 Stereo Large Diaphragm Tube Condenser Microphone

A modern tribute to one of the most legendary stereo tube condensers used by The Beatles, AL Schmitt and Frank Sinatra, the WA‑CX24 delivers lush tube warmth, expansive stereo imaging, and classic tonality at a fraction of the vintage mic’s cost.

• Ideal For: Drum recordings, Stereo Vocal Performances
• Original Price: £6,800 – £7,000
• Modern Alternative: Warm Audio WA-CX24 – A Faithful Recreation of the Quad Capsule Microphone.

Building Your Dream Studio Mic Locker

Whether you’re a seasoned studio engineer or just starting your home recording studio, these classic studio microphones offer exceptional tone, legendary pedigree, and modern alternatives that deliver pro-quality results. From FET microphones to condenser microphones and ribbon mics, having a versatile mic locker ensures you’re ready to capture any performance with clarity and warmth.

Useful links

• Shop Recording Microphones
• Shop Warm Audio
• Shop All Studio & Recording Gear

The post The Top Studio Microphones Every Recording Engineer Should Know appeared first on Andertons Blog.

Looking for the ultimate guitar recording setup for your home studio? The PreSonus Quantum HD range is built with players in mind, co-designed with Fender and packed with features that give guitarists pro-level tone, flexibility, and feel. Whether you’re recording DI, reamping through real amps, or playing through amp sims in real time, Quantum HD delivers, and it comes with a full, perpetual license for Studio One Pro 7.

Guitarist-First Features

Presonus’ Quantum HD range doesn’t just feature guitar-compatible interfaces – these are designed from the ground up to suit modern guitarists’ needs.

Fender Co-Designed Instrument Inputs: The Quantum HD range features dedicated guitar inputs, designed in collaboration with Fender (the same circuit used in the Fender Tone Master Pro). These inputs ensure guitar signals hit your DAW /  Recording Software exactly as they should — rich, dynamic, and true to the instrument.

Built-In Reamping Capability: Dual dedicated reamp outputs allow users to take clean DI signals and send them back through real amps and pedals without needing a separate reamping box.

Ultra-Low Latency: Quantum HD interfaces offer extremely low round-trip latency, perfect for using amp sims and virtual effects in real time without that annoying lag.

Effortlessly capture clean DI signals and explore endless mp and FX combinations later; layer multiple amp tones simultaneously with multiple reamp outputs; match impedance for optimised compatibility with vintage amps. These are fully-realised solutions for pretty much modern guitar recording setup, at home or in the studio.

Full Studio One Pro 7 License Included

Here for the long haul: Every Quantum HD purchase now includes a full perpetual license for Studio One Professional 7 — not a subscription, not a limited version.

This professional DAW compliments the Quantum’s guitar-orientated workflow perfectly. Integrated reamping, ‘Ampire’ amp & pedal simulations, and an easy drag-and-drop workflow make recording, editing, and layering guitar parts a breeze.

Whether you’re adding guitar to full pop & rock arrangements, laying down fiery metal riffs & shreddy solos, or anything in between, Quantum & Studio One Pro tick the boxes.

Why It Matters for Guitarists

• Better Recordings, Faster:
  
  You can focus more on playing and creativity without worrying about technical hurdles.
• Ultimate Flexibility:
  
  Change your guitar tone after recording, freeing you from having to “commit” to amp sounds too early.
• Premium Sound:
  
  Top-notch DA/AD converters ensure the recorded tone is pristine, whether clean, crunchy, or fully saturated.

Conclusion

If you’re serious about capturing your best guitar tones without compromise, Quantum HD is the interface that gets it. Combine it with Studio One Pro 7, included with every unit, and you’ve got a complete, guitarist focused studio solution straight out of the box. We hope you enjoyed reading this blog – while you’re here, check out these useful links:

• Shop Presonus
• Shop Audio Interfaces
• Andertons Music Co.

The post By Guitarists For Guitarists: PreSonus Quantum HD Interfaces appeared first on Andertons Blog.

What Are Auratone 5C Studio Monitors?

The Auratone 5C Super Sound Cube is a legendary single-driver, passive studio monitor designed to offer honest midrange reproduction without any flattery. Unlike some monitors that exaggerate bass or treble, the 5C is built to reflect how your mix will sound on real-world playback systems. Think smartphones, laptops, & TVs.

This is why they’re often called ‘real-world reference monitors.’ When engineers say a mix ‘translates well’ they’re often testing it on Auratones.

Aurotone also make an active version that’s great if you don’t want to use an external amplifier.

Why Choose Auratone 5C Monitors?

Unparalleled Midrange Clarity

In most mixes, the midrange is where vocals, guitars, snares, and synths live. The Auratone 5C emphasizes this crucial frequency range, helping audio engineers make precise EQ and balance decisions. If your mix sounds great on the 5C, it will likely sound great anywhere.

Legacy in Major Studios

From Quincy Jones and Michael Jackson’s Thriller sessions to today’s top mastering engineers, the Auratone 5C has been a mainstay in world-class studios for decades. When it comes to vintage studio monitor speakers with real-world application, Auratones are the benchmark.

(above) The late, legendary Quincy Jones cradles his 5Cs in the studio

Ideal for Critical Mix Translation

The 5C isn’t designed to sound “nice.” It’s designed to sound real. Engineers use them to ensure that a mix will translate well across all consumer-grade systems. This makes them one of the best studio monitors for mix referencing.

Compact and Space-Saving

Their cube-shaped design and passive architecture make the Auratone 5C perfect for smaller spaces and minimalist home studio setups. Pair them with a transparent amplifier and you’re ready to work with unmatched accuracy, or choose the active version for the same great sound.

Durable, Hand-Built Quality

Modern 5Cs are still manufactured in the USA with strict quality control. Their minimalist wood cabinetry and no-frills driver are a nod to durability and function over flashy aesthetics.

How to Use Auratone 5C Monitors in Your Studio Setup

For optimal performance, use the Auratone 5C alongside your primary monitors. Many engineers set them up on a dedicated A/B switch or use a studio monitor controller to flip between speaker sets. Use them primarily during the mixing stage to check for midrange clarity, vocal presence, and overall mix balance.

Pro Tip: Pair the 5C with a neutral amplifier like the Auratone A2-30 to preserve the monitor’s transparent tone.

Conclusion: The Ultimate Tool for Honest Mixes

Looking for compact studio monitors for honest playback? The Auratone 5C Super Sound Cube is one of the most reliable options on the market. Their simplicity is their strength. No flashy features – just pure, uncoloured sound that ensures your mix will stand up in the real world.

Whether you’re a home studio producer, a professional mixing engineer, or just beginning your audio production journey, Auratone 5Cs are a worthwhile investment that can elevate your mixes to industry-standard clarity.

More links:

• Shop Auratone at Andertons Music Co.
• Shop Studio Monitors
• Studio monitors & regular speakers: what’s the difference?
• What’s the difference between mixing & mastering?
• Andertons Scoreboard: the best 5-inch woofer studio monitors
• Andertons Scoreboard: the best 7-inch woofer studio monitors

The post Why Auratone 5C Studio Monitors Are Still the Secret Weapon in Pro Mixing Studios appeared first on Andertons Blog.

Dave Friedman knows a thing or two about modding amps. He’s earned a reputation as one of the most passionate guitar amp designers in recent years. Yet Friedman, like many of his peers, owes a thing or two to the late amp legend José Arredondo, an elusive yet prolific technician responsible for some of the greatest gain & amp mods in amplification lore.

To commemorate Arredondo’s profound impact, Friedman teamed up with his family to distil the essence of his most popular mods into a single amp head. This was first announced at NAMM 2025, and we had the pleasure of speaking to Dave, as well as Arredondo’s daughter Marisol, about the upcoming project and how people can get hold of this special piece of amp history via Andertons Music Co.

Pre Order your Friedman Jose Arredondo Tribute Amp Head at Andertons Music Co. Today!

16^th January 2025: That’s right, it’s almost that time of year again. The biggest names in the world of musical instruments & gear are descending on the Anaheim Convention Centre to show off their latest releases for your 2025 wishlist. And if rumours are to be believed, this is going to be the biggest NAMM Show since 2020.

While you’re awaiting the start of the show, we’ve pulled together some info to keep you in the loop and whet your NAMM appetite…

NAMM 2025 Early Releases

At the time of writing, the 2025 NAMM Show hasn’t kicked off yet – but plenty of your favourite brands have delivered the goods early this year. From Ibanez launching their entire 2025 line-up to Stylophone sneaking in a drone synth, there’s loads to see already! Here’s our round-up of some of this year’s pre-NAMM highlights:

• Ibanez 2025: Discover new Artcore models, affordable AZ Standards, stunning Prestige additions, and more. Find out more
• PRS Guitars: Introducing the Swamp Ash Special & Standard 24 models – and that’s not all! Find out more
• Martin Standard Series: Martin have refreshed their iconic Standard Series with subtle tonal & aesthetic enhancements. The best just got better? Find out more
• Nord Organ 3 & Piano 6: Reimagined, redesigned and back! Nord’s whopper announcement features their new Organ 3 and refreshed Piano 6 models. Find out more
• ThorpyFX Sixzero: The ThorpyFX Six Zero is an all-analogue Fuzz & tremolo pedal, designed and hand-built to look back to the 1960s. Delish. Find out more
• Bad Cat Era Amps: Legendary amp designer Mark Sampson has returned to Bad Cat to deliver the pinnacle of iconic design with modern craftsmanship – and it sounds killer! Find out more
• Korg Kronos Is Back: KORG bring back their legendary Kronos workstation, AND revive their first ever synth, the legendary 700! Find out more
• Walrus Audio & Yvette Young: A lush all-in-one ambient pedal designed by Walrus Audio & the innovative Covet guitarist. Find out more
• Stylophone DS-2: The Stylophone folks are back with their anticipated drone synth, the DS-2! This is for you sound designers and ambient aficionados. Find out more
• IK Multimedia Tonex FRFR Cab: IK enter the FRFR arena with punchy DSP that takes the full-range concept to new heights. Find out more
• Mesa Boogie: The punishing valve head that defined the 90s and 00s, back in all its chrome-adorned glory. Find out more
• Alesis Crimson III: A 9-piece mesh electronic kit packed with tons of useful performance & practice features! Find out more

Want to see all the NAMM 2025 releases as they happen? Check out All NAMM 2025 Releases right here!

The long-awaited sixth instalment in the Andertons Scoreboard series is here! We’ve put a new selection of closed-backed headphones through their paces to find the very best cans on the market. This time round, the price point we’ve explored is £120-£180. But for the uninitiated, what does closed-back actually mean? Well, put simply, this kind of design helps to stop noise from leaking through your headphones. This is particularly useful when you’re recording, as it means any microphones within earshot won’t pick up any sound from your headphones. This will help you to get as clean a take as possible.

Our list covers headphones from some of the most respected names in the business – from Audio Technica and Beyerdynamic, to Sennheiser and Austrian Audio. We were so impressed in fact, that we’ve even included Rode’s very first foray into the headphone space! Each pair on this page was put through a rigorous round of testing to determine their level of quality. We’ve rated them all on sound, build and comfort, with a final overall score displayed for each model. This provides you with a quick snapshot of how each pair stacks up against one another in this price range.

Check out the rest of our headphone ratings here:

• • Andertons Scoreboard: Best Closed-back Headphones £10-£20 (2024)
  • Andertons Scoreboard: £20-£40 Headphones (2024)
  • Andertons Scoreboard: Best £40-£70 Closed-back Headphones (2024)
  • Andertons Scoreboard: Best Closed-Back Headphones £70-£100 (2024)

Rode NTH-100 Closed Back Headphones

This is RØDE’s first ever pair of over-ear monitoring headphones. Years of intense R&D went into the creation of the NTH-100, and that attention to detail is present in every single facet of their construction. A memory foam headband and noise-rejecting earcups – paired with a sleek ergonomic design – ensure that comfort is maintained even during the longest periods of mixing and mastering. The intuitive Fitlock system incorporated into the headband itself even maintains its position after every session; you’re assured a snug, perfect fit every single time you put them on!

When it comes to sound, the NTH-100 is equipped with custom matched 40mm dynamic drivers. The result is accurate bass recreation, clear sound and a rich midrange.

Rating:

• Comfort: 4.7/5
• Build Quality: 4.6/5
• Sound Quality: 4.4/5

Beyerdynamic DT770 Pro Closed Back Headphones 80 Ohms

These are one of Beyerdynamic’s most popular pairs of headphones. The DT770 series has developed a worthy reputation as one of the best headphone ranges around, and this model is no different.

Soft velour ear pads and an adjustable padded headband let you work for hours without listening fatigue. Every component is fully replaceable too; in the unlikely event that something happens to break, simply swap it out for a fresh part.

Whether you’re working on a song of your own, or listening to music while you’re out and about, you’ll experience flat, evenly balanced audio over every frequency. ‘Bass reflex’ tech bolsters the quality of the sound further with enhanced bass response.

Rating:

• Comfort: 5.0/5
• Build Quality: 4.6/5
• Sound Quality: 4.3/5

Focal Listen Professional Closed Back Reference Headphones (32 Ohms)

If you want cutting-edge, truly modern headphone design, Focal Professional are the brand for you. Suitable for monitoring, mixing, gaming, streaming and general listening, these Listen Professional headphones take all applications in their stride.

A bleed-proof architecture lets you track drums, guitar or vocals without any noise leaking into your take. To top things off, high-quality transducers guarantee top drawer audio fidelity, no matter what you’re hearing.

Rating:

• Comfort: 4.6/5
• Build Quality: 4.7/5
• Sound Quality: 4.4/5

Sennheiser HD25 Plus Headphones (70 Ohms)

Sennheiser’s HD25 Plus headphones were designed with portability in mind. A lightweight frame with smaller earcups lets you listen comfortably for hours, no matter where you might be.

They lend themselves particularly well to monitoring – so if you regularly DJ, record live, or work in broadcasting, these are perfect. This is in part thanks to aluminium voice coils which lead to a superior transient response.

Rating:

• Comfort: 4.1/5
• Build Quality: 3.8/5
• Sound Quality: 4.2/5

Audio-Technica ATH-M50X Studio Monitor Professional Headphones

The Audio-Tehcnica ATH-M50X Studio Monitor Professional headphones are one of our best-selling pairs here at Andertons. This model is arguably the pinnacle of the brands M-Series, which is well-regarded throughout the music industry for combining pure audio performance with a durable, rugged build-quality.

A regular in the studio? Make sure that these form part of your audio arsenal. Long sessions are a breeze, with contoured earcups offering not just comfort, but a practical element too. They are designed to seal tightly over your ears to prevent bleed, while simultaneously improving sound isolation.

We haven’t even covered sound yet either. You’ll notice accurate bass response and crystal-clear clarity due to the inclusion of carefully engineered, proprietary 45mm large-aperture drivers.

Rating:

• Comfort: 4.1/5
• Build Quality: 3.8/5
• Sound Quality: 4.3/5

Austrian Audio Hi-X25BT Professional Closed-Back Over-Ear Headphones with Bluetooth

Austrian Audio’s Hi-X25BT headphones are all about choice. Whether you prefer to work wired or go wireless, or like to listen via analogue or digital means, the Hi-X25BT caters to all four preferences.

A built-in 44mm Hi-X driver produces an authentic listening experience. As a result, you’ll experience distortion-free audio, clear transients and plenty of power too!

There’s even onboard touch-sensitive controls and an integrated microphone for making and receiving calls. And not to mention the long-lasting battery which delivers up to 30 hours of carefree listening!

Rating:

• Comfort: 4.9/5
• Build Quality: 4.5/5
• Sound Quality: 4.2/5

Best Closed-Back Headphones £120-£180