Many budding producers may wonder if it is best to use monitors while mixing or whether headphones can give an equally accurate picture of one’s mix. And while many professionals will insist that monitors are the best way to go, an argument can be made as to why mixing with headphones is sometimes more appropriate. So, let’s look at the pros and cons of both monitors and headphones and explore some tips that will help you get the best mix possible.
Are Monitors Better for Mixing?
Most often, it is recommended that monitors be used for mixing rather than headphones. This is because monitors tend to give you a more natural representation of your mix. Typically, the soundstage can feel more open and precise, and it can sometimes be easier to identify phase cancellation or muddy spots in your recording. Listening on headphones for extended periods of time can also be fatiguing on the ears and may result in some nasty tinnitus down the road.
However, the effectiveness of studio monitors rests on a couple of factors. Firstly, to get a precise sound from your speakers, you’ll need a well-treated room. If there are too many reflections, it may become hard to critically listen to your mix. Some frequencies may be overrepresented, while other frequencies may be lost. Secondly, if your monitors aren’t flatly balanced, then you’re likely to boost certain frequencies that will translate poorly to other speakers. Lastly, not everyone can afford high-quality monitors. And if you own a budget pair that lacks good separation and transparency, it may be difficult to accurately judge what you’re hearing.
When to Use Headphones for Mixing
As mentioned, if you’re working in a less-than-ideal acoustic space, it may be wise to use a good pair of headphones and alternate between your two audio sources. Unlike untreated rooms, since headphones provide a tight and contained space, there is less chance of being misled. Of course, the type of headphones you use can also make or break your mix.
To get the most accurate imaging, you’ll want to use open-back headphones. (However, when recording, you’ll want to stick to closed back headphones so that sound doesn’t leak into the microphone). Open-back headphones have openings on the earcups which allow for a more realistic and spacious soundstage, and more closely approximate the effect of speakers. Additionally, like studio monitors, you typically want your headphones to have a flat response. Headphones that boost the bass, for example, may cause you to overcompensate by excessively reducing the low-end response.
For an in-depth exploration into mixing headphones, check out our article, Best Headphones for Mixing and Other Tips.
Use as Many Sound Sources as Possible
When polishing your track, it’s wise to use a variety of sound sources to find the optimal mix. A good mixer will listen to their mix on multiple speakers and multiple headphones. It’s also advisable to listen to your mix on consumer speakers and headphones to get a sense of how the music will sound to your general audience. Using bass response as an example again, though your low frequencies may sound sensible on flat studio headphones, if the listener is using consumer earbuds, the bass might end up sounding too boosted or cloudy. Many engineers even listen to their mixes on car speakers and mini Bluetooth speakers to ensure that the mix stays consistent and clear regardless of the sound source.
Final Verdict
If you’re working in a well-treated room with high quality speakers, mixing with monitors is the preferable choice. But at the end of the day, whether you decide to primarily use monitors or headphones while mixing, never solely rely on one source. Listen to your mix through as many speakers and headphones as you possibly can to find the sweet spot.
To find the best monitors and headphones for your mixing needs, check out our detailed product pages.
