Cyber Monday is officially here, and you can save big on everything from smart home tech and soundbars to sought-after Bluetooth speakers—essential for anyone who wants to listen to music with friends and family this holiday season. Many of the deals we’ve found are discounts on Bluetooth speakers that have found themselves in our buyer’s guides. If your current Bluetooth speaker is on the fritz, or you’d like to treat yourself (or someone you know) to an audio upgrade they can appreciate on the go (or with a wireless turntable), don’t miss these limited-time deals.

Sony SRS-XE200 $97.95 (Was $129.99)

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Sony SRS-XE200 is an excellent mid-sized Bluetooth speaker whose Cyber Monday discount brings it down to its lowest price ever. The speaker has a pair of drivers and passive radiators for well-balanced sound, a battery that lasts up to 16 hours per charge, and an IP67 durability rating, which means it’s dustproof and can be completely submerged under water. The SRS-XE200 can also take advantage of Sony’s Wireless Party Connect feature, allowing you to sync up to 100 speakers. A built-in strap makes the speaker easy to carry or hang outdoors. This Bluetooth speaker even has a microphone, so you can use it as a speakerphone.

Sony Bluetooth speaker deals

• Sony SRS-XB100, $38 (Was $59.99)
• Sony SRS-XP500, $298 (Was $399.99)
• Sony SRS-XG500, $298 (Was $499.99)
• Sony SRS-XV800, $498 (Was $549.99)

Sonos Bluetooth speaker deals

• Sonos Roam portable speaker $134 (was $179)
• Sonos Roam SL, $119 (Was $159)
• Sonos Roam (2-Pack), $268 (Was $358)

JBL Bluetooth speaker deals

• JBL Flip 6, $89 (Was $129.95)
• JBL Clip 4, $44.95 (Was $79.95)
• JBL Go 3, $29.88 (Was $49.95)
• JBL Partybox Encore Essential, $179 (Was $299.95)
• JBL PartyBox 110, $249.95 (Was $399.95)
• JBL Boombox 2, $249.95 (Was $399.95)
• JBL Charge 5, $119.95 (Was $179.95)
• JBL Boombox 3, $349.95 (Was $499.95)
• JBL Pulse 4, $129.99 (Was $249.95)

Bose Bluetooth speaker deals

• Bose SoundLink Revolve (Series II), $159 (Was $219)
• Bose SoundLink Revolve+ (Series II), $229 (Was $329)
• Bose SoundLink Flex Bluetooth Speaker, $119 (Was $149)
• Bose SoundLink Micro Bluetooth Speaker, $99 (Was $119)
• Bose S1 Pro+ All-in-one Powered Portable Bluetooth Speaker, $649 (Was $699)

Ultimate Ears Bluetooth speaker deals

• Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3, $59.99 (Was $99.99)
• Ultimate Ears Boom 3, $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• Ultimate Ears Logitech MEGABOOM 3, $149.99 (Was $199.99)

Bang & Olufsen Bluetooth speaker deals

• Bang & Olufsen Beosound Explore, $144.58 (Was $199)
• Bang & Olufsen Beosound Emerge, $710 (Was $899)
• Bang & Olufsen Beosound A1 (2nd Generation), $179 (Was $250)

Marshall Bluetooth speaker deals

• Marshall Emberton, $99.99 (Was $169.99)
• Marshall Emberton II, $119.99 (Was $169.99)
• Marshall Kilburn II, $179.99 (Was $299.99)
• Marshall Willen, $99.99 (Was $119.99)

TREBLAB Bluetooth speaker deals

• TREBLAB HD-Mini, $19.96 (Was $39.97)
• TREBLAB FX100, $39.84 (Was $89.97)
• TREBLAB HD77, $59.96 (Was $119.97)
• TREBLAB HD-Force, $89.97 (Was $179.97)
• TREBLAB HD-360, $119.97 (Was $189.97)

Tribit Bluetooth speaker deals

• Tribit StormBox Bluetooth Speaker, $54.39 (Was $77.59)
• Tribit Bluetooth Wireless Portable Speaker, $47.99 (Was $79.99)
• Tribit Upgraded MaxSound Plus Portable Bluetooth Speaker, $47.39 (Was $79.99)
• Tribit XSound Go Speaker, $27.19 (Was $49.99)
• Tribit StormBox Blast Portable Speaker, $155.98 (Was $199.99)
• Tribit StormBox Micro, $39.99 (Was $59.99)
• Tribit Upgraded StormBox Pro, $79.99 (Was $119.99)
• Tribit StormBox Flow, $63.99 (Was $79.99)
• Tribit XSound Mega Portable Bluetooth Speaker, $79.99 (Was $129.99)

Soundcore Bluetooth speaker deals

• Soundcore Motion+, $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• Soundcore Motion 300, $63.99 (Was $79.99)
• Soundcore 2, $29.99 (Was $39.99)
• Soundcore Mini 3, $31.99 (Was $40.99)
• Soundcore Motion X500, $129.99 (Was $169.99)
• Soundcore Motion X600, $149.99 (Was $199.99)
• Soundcore Glow Mini Portable Speaker, $31.99 (Was $39.99)
• Soundcore Motion 100, $47.99 (Was $59.99)
• Soundcore Rave Neo 2, $87 (Was $109)

The post The best Cyber Monday deals on expert-approved Bluetooth speakers appeared first on Popular Science.

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If you’ve recently picked a big, new 4K TV, you’ll want to get a soundbar to go with it. These compact speaker systems can pump out louder, higher-quality sound than the audio equipment built into ultra-thin TVs without taking up a tremendous amount of space. Some soundbars come with additional speakers—a subwoofer for more bass or wireless rear speakers for surround sound—while others stand on their own. You can save hundreds of dollars on a wide range of soundbars thanks to an abundance of Cyber Monday deals.

Sonos Ray $223 (Was $279)

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The Sonos Ray is the best Cyber Monday soundbar deal due to its impressive audio fidelity for something of such a diminutive size. At just 22 inches wide, you can easily fit this soundbar beneath any TV or inside an entertainment center. Sonos packed the Ray with a multi-driver audio system, including a pair of woofers and outward-facing tweeters connected to a custom-designed amplifier that guarantees well-balanced sound. This Cyber Monday deal on the Sonos Ray solves both issues if you’ve put off getting a soundbar due to its high price and large size.

Bose soundbar deals

• Bose TV Speaker, $199 (Was $279)
• Bose Smart Soundbar 600, $399 (Was $499)
• Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar, $799 (Was $899)

LG soundbar deals

• LG S40Q, $126.99 (Was $196.99)
• LG S95QR, $996.98 (Was $1,799.99)
• LG GX, $349.95 (Was $999.99)

Vizio soundbar deals

• VIZIO M213ad-K8, $144.97 (Was $179.99)
• VIZIO V20-J8, $79.99 (was $119.99)
• VIZIO M512E-K6, $498 (Was $799.99)

JBL soundbar deals

• JBL MK2, $199.95 (Was $299.95)
• JBL Bar 300, $249.95 (Was $399.95)
• JBL Bar 500, $379.95 (Was $599.95)

Samsung soundbar deals

• SAMSUNG HW-S60B, $197.99 (Was $347.99)
• SAMSUNG HW-B550, $177.99 (Was $277.99)

Sony soundbar deals

• Sony HT-S400, $178 (Was $299.99)
• Sony HT-S2000, $298 (Was $499.99)
• Sony HT-A7000, $998 (Was $1,399)

Polk soundbar deals

• Polk Audio React Sound Bar, $169 (Was $269)

Denon soundbar deals

• Denon DHT-S217, $149 (Was $249)
• Denon DHT-S316, $229 (Was $299)

Bang & Olufsen soundbar deals

• Bang & Olufsen Beosound Stage, $1,649 (Was $2,199)

Need a top-quality source and/or screen to pair with that soundbar? Pick up a Panasonic 4K Blu-ray player on sale and shop these amazing deals on Samsung TVs.

The post Save big on soundbars from Sonos, JBL, Sony, Bose, Samsung, and more during Cyber Monday appeared first on Popular Science.

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The explosion in the popularity of turntables and vinyl proves that what goes around comes around—in this case quite literally. If you’re looking to supplement your music streaming with high-fidelity slabs of wax, Black Friday is the best time to pick up a new record player. Many turntables, including advanced models with high-tech features like Bluetooth connectivity, are deeply discounted for a limited time. If you want a new deck or to give vinyl a try for the first time, don’t miss out. And if you need some LPs to play on your turntable, you can take advantage of VinylMePlease’s buy one get one 50% off sale.

House of Marley Stir It Up Wireless Bluetooth Turntable $199.99 (Was $249.99)

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House of Marley’s Stir It Up is an excellent turntable for newbies and more seasoned LP lovers alike. Its deck is made of bamboo—in keeping with the company’s commitment to sustainability—and comes bundled with an Audio-Technica cartridge. This record player has a built-in phono preamp and Bluetooth support, so you can hook it up directly to any pair of powered or wireless speakers and play albums without additional hardware. A switch on the top of this turntable allows you to jump between 33- and 45-RPM settings. A conveniently located headphone jack lets you enjoy your collection without disturbing others. And if you’re willing to spend $100 more, you can also upgrade to the stylish belt-drive Stir It Up Lux with its Audio-Technica elliptical stylus (AT-95E), Bluetooth 5.3 connection, and more. And those are just a couple of the many deeply discounted platters being served up this Black Friday. Check these out:

Audio-Technica turntable deals

• Audio-Technica AT-LP60XBT-BK, $179 (Was $219)
• Audio-Technica AT-LP120XUSB-BK, $279 (Was $349)
• Audio Technica AT-LP3XBT-BK, $249 (Was $329)
• Audio-Technica ATLP120XBTUSB, $319 (Was $399)
• Audio-Technica AT-LPW40WN, $319 (Was $379)

1ByOne turntable deals

• 1 by ONE High Fidelity Belt Drive Turntable, $154.97 (Was $229.97)
• 1 BY ONE Bluetooth Turntable HiFi System, $168.97 (Was $269.95)
• 1 BY ONE Belt Drive Turntable with Bluetooth Connectivity, $99.97 (Was $119.97)
• 1 BY ONE Luscinia Acrylic Sheet Turntable, $133.99 (Was $179.97)
• 1 BY ONE Rock Pigeon Record Player, $76.93 (Was $109.90)

Denon turntable deals

• Denon DP-300F, $329 (Was $349.99)

Fluance turntable deals

• Fluance RT80, $169.96 (Was $199.99)
• Fluance RT81, $211.96 (Was $249.99)

Victrola turntable deals

• Victrola VTA-65-MAH, $51.03 (Was $71.18)
• Victrola Re-Spin, $69.99 (Was $99.99)
• Victrola VTA-75-ESP, $99.99 (Was $122.36)
• Victrola Revolution GO, $72.85 (Was $199.99)

Need a system to play that turntable through? Check out these other amazing speaker deals before they’re gone. Prefer some affordable wireless headphones or earbuds if it’s a Bluetooth turntable? We got you.

The post These Black Friday turntable deals are still spinning, but not for long appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Black Friday is over or ongoing, depending on your understanding of the time-space continuum. And multiroom audio experts Sonos are offering great deals on connected speakers so you can fill the home theater, whole house, or someone else’s heart with cheer this holiday season. Sonos’ speakers and soundbars were designed to work together, and these deals allow you to assemble a full wireless system in a couple of clicks.

Sonos Arc Soundbar $719 (Was $899)

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The Arc soundbar is the centerpiece of the most immersive Sonos system. Pair it wirelessly with either a Sonos Sub (Gen. 3) or Sub Mini and two Era 100 speakers for rear channels and you’ve got a compact 5.1 surround sound system (available in black, white, or a Cruella De Vil-worthy combo if that’s your vibe). The soundbar connects to your TV via eARC HDMI to take advantage of top-tier Atmos material, but you can stream stereo music to it wirelessly from Apple devices through AirPlay 2. And you can add additional speakers throughout the house (assuming your WiFi is up to the task) if you need to hear Vince Guaraldi and other Christmas classics no matter where you roam.

Check out all the Sonos deals that are music to our ears:

• Sonos Sub (Gen 3) $639 (was $749)
• Sonos Sub Mini $343 (was $429)
• Sonos Era 100 powered speaker $199 (was $249)
• Sonos Roam portable speaker $134 (was $179)
• Sonos Beam (Gen. 2) Soundbar $399 (was $499)
• Sonos Ray Soundbar $223 (was $279)

Looking for other soundbar deals? We got you. We’ve also collected deals on some of our favorite speakers for stereo and multichannel setups.

The post It’s not too late to save hundreds on a Sonos sound system appeared first on Popular Science.

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We’re big fans of soundbars here at PopSci. They’re a simple and often-affordable way to seriously upgrade your TV’s sound. Right now, Amazon has pretty absurd deals on JBL soundbars, including $300 off one of our favorites. That’s half-price. Stop reading and go get it.

JBL Bar 5.1 – Soundbar with Built-in Virtual Surround, 4K and 10″ Wireless Subwoofer $299 (was $599)

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This high-end soundbar offers 5.1 surround sound performance thanks to JBL’s clever beam-forming technology, which can chuck sound around the room with impressive accuracy. The 10-inch wireless subwoofer connects easily and booms when you want it to. It supports all sorts of wireless technology, like Bluetooth and AirPlay 2, for playing music. Plus, it looks slick, so you won’t want to hide it in your entertainment center.

More Black Friday soundbar deals

Some of these soundbars are literally half-price, so if you see something you want, grab it because it will probably sell out before Cyber Monday rolls around.

• SENNHEISER AMBEO Max 5.1.4 Soundbar with Dolby Atmos & DTS:X $1,699.95 (was $2,499.95)
• Sennheiser AMBEO Plus Virtual 7.1.4 Soundbar $999 (was $1,495)
• Sennheiser AMBEO Subwoofer wireless reinforcement w/ 8″ woofer & response down to 27 Hz $499 (was $699)
• JBL Bar 2.1 Deep Bass (MK2): 2.1 Channel Soundbar with Wireless Subwoofer $199 (was $299)
• Amazon Fire TV Soundbar, 2.0 speaker with DTS Virtual:X and Dolby Audio, Bluetooth connectivity $99 (was $119)
• SAMSUNG HW-C450 2.1ch Soundbar w/DTS Virtual X, Subwoofer Included $137 (was $197)
• VIZIO V-Series 2.0 Compact Home Theater Sound Bar $79 (was $119)
• Bose Smart Ultra Soundbar With Dolby Atmos $799 (was $899)
• Bose TV Speaker – Soundbar for TV $199 (was $279)
• Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar $199 (was $398)
• SAMSUNG HW-B650 3.1ch Soundbar w/Dolby 5.1 DTS Virtual:X $207 (was $399)
• VIZIO M-Series 2.1 Sound Bar with Dolby Atmos $119 (was $179)
• Sony HTX8500 2.1ch Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with Built-in subwoofer $198 (was $399)
• SAMSUNG HW-S60B 3.1ch Soundbar w/Dolby Atmos $197 (was $347)
• Polk Audio Signa S2 Ultra-Slim TV Sound Bar $149 (was $249)
• Denon DHT-S217 Sleek Home Theater Soundbar $149 (was $249)
• LG Sound Bar and Wireless Subwoofer S40Q $126 (was $196)
• LG S75Q 3.1.2ch Soundbar with Dolby Atmos $296 (was $599)

Want a complete wireless surround sound system? We love the Nakamichi Shockwafe Ultra 9.2.4 Channel Dolby Atmos/DTS:X Soundbar with Dual 10″ Wireless Subwoofers, and it’s only $1,399 (usually $1,899).

Interested in building a more traditional multi-component surround system or stereo listening station? Check out these other amazing speaker deals before they’re gone.

The post These deep soundbar discounts are still live, but won’t be for long appeared first on Popular Science.

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Black Friday is finally here, and you can score incredible discounts on headphones of all shapes and sizes from all the major companies by shopping at Amazon. In fact, there are incredible deals to be had even with a budget of under $100—some pairs cost under $20! If you’ve been putting off getting a pair of new headphones for yourself or want a universally appreciated gift, you’ll find dozens of great deals below.

Sennheiser CX Plus $99.95 (Was $179.95)

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This $80 discount on Sennheiser’s CX Plus true wireless earbuds is a great deal for those with audiophile tastes on a tighter budget. The earbuds support active noise cancellation, get up to 24 hours of playtime (eight from the buds themselves and an additional 16 hours thanks to their battery case), and IPX4 water resistance, which makes them suitable for wear while working out. Multiple built-in microphones allow you to use these earbuds to make and take phone calls, while Sennheiser’s Smart Control App for iOS and Android allow you to tweak their sound to suit your tastes. If you’re looking for the Black Friday earbuds deal under $100, this is it. Prefer headphones? You can get the Sennheiser HD 400S around-ear headphones for only $45.99 (normally $69.99), and check out the deals below for many, many more options of all sorts.

Sennheiser headphone deals

• Sennheiser CX, $68 (Was $129.95)
• Sennheiser 350BT, $69.95 (Was $119.95)
• Sennheiser RS 120-W, $80.15 (Was $129.95)

House of Marley deals

• Positive Vibration Frequency Over-ear Wireless Headphones $59.99 (Was $99)
• CHAMPION 2 True Wireless Earbuds $69.99 (Was $89.99)

AirPods deals

• AirPods 2, $79.99 (Was $129)
• EarPods, $16.99 (Was $19)

Sony headphone deals

• Sony WH-CH520, $38 (Was $59.99)
• Sony WH-CH720N, $98 (Was $149.99)
• Sony SRS-NB10, $98 (Was $149.99)

Beats headphone deals

• Beats Solo3, $99.95 (Was $199.95)
• Beats Studio Buds, $89.95 (Was $149.95)

JBL headphone deals

• JBL Tune 510BT, $24.95 (Was $49.95)
• JBL Vibe Beam, $29.95 (Was $49.95)
• JBL Tune 710BT, $39.95 (Was $79.95)
• JBL Live Pro 2, $74.95 (Was $149.95)
• JBL Tune Buds, $49.95 (Was $99.95)
• JBL Tune 760NC, $64.95 (Was $129.95)
• JBL Tune Flex, $49.95 (Was $99.95)
• JBL Vibe Buds, $29.95 (Was $49.95)
• JBL Tune 215, $19.95 (Was $39.95)
• JBL Tune 660NC, $49.95 (Was $99.95)
• JBL TUNE 500, $14.95 (Was $29.95)

TREBLAB headphone deals

• TREBLAB Z2 Over-Ear Headphones $69.95 (Was $119.97)
• TREBLAB X3 Pro Wireless Earbuds with Earhooks $47.97 (Was $99.97)

Tribit headphone deals

• Tribit FlyBuds 3, $31.99 (Was $39.99)
• Tribit MoveBuds H1, $71.20 (Was $110)
• Tribit FlyBuds C2, $59.99 (Was $79.99)
• Tribit FlyBuds C1 Pro, $62.99 (Was $89.99)

1More headphone deals

• 1MORE Omthing AirFree Buds, $9.99 (Was $29.99)
• 1MORE SonoFlow, $63.99 (Was $99.99)
• 1MORE Aero, $54.99 (Was $109.99)
• 1MORE EVO, $89.99 (Was $159.99)
• 1MORE ComfoBuds Mini, $54.99 (Was $99.99)
• 1MORE Fit SE S30, $54.99 (Was $69.99)

Tozo headphone deals

• TOZO T10, $18.99 (Was $39.99)
• TOZO A1 Mini, $16.39 (Was $29.99)
• TOZO T20, $29.99 (Was $35.99)
• TOZO T6, $20.99 (Was $39.99)
• TOZO HT2, $39.99 (Was $49.99)
• TOZO T9, $22.94 (Was $39.99)
• TOZO A3, $16.14 (Was $22.99)
• TOZO G1, $19.99 (Was $29.99)
• TOZO A2, $14.44 (Was $18.99)

Marshall headphone deals

• Marshall Minor III, $89.99 (Was $129.99)
• Marshall Major IV, $99.99 (Was $149.99)

Jabra headphone deals

• Jabra Elite 4, $59.99 (Was $99.99)
• Jabra Elite 4 Active, $69.99 (Was $119.99)
• Jabra Evolve2 40, $89.99 (Was $168)

Soundcore deals

• Soundcore P20i, $19.99 (Was $39.99)
• Soundcore Sport X10, $49.99 (Was $79.99)
• Soundcore P3i, $34.99 (Was $59.99)
• Soundcore Q20, $41.98 (Was $59.99)
• Soundcore P2, $23.89 (Was $89.99)
• Soundcore P3, $54.98 (Was $79.99)
• Soundcore Q20+, $49.99 (Was $69.99)

Skullcandy deals

• Skullcandy Crusher Evo Over-Ear Wireless Headphones with Sensory Bass $99.99 (Was $199.99)
• Skullcandy Grind Fuel In-Ear Wireless Earbuds with Wireless Charging $39.99 (Was $79.99)
• Skullcandy Push Active In-Ear Wireless Earbuds $59.99 (Was $82.06)
• Rail ANC Wireless Earbuds $79.99 (Was $99.99)
• Rail Wireless Earbuds $59.99 (Was $79.99)

Edifier headphone deals

• Edifier WH950NB Active Noise Cancelling Headphones, Bluetooth 5.3 Wireless w/ LDAC $99.99 (Was $199.99)
• Edifier W820NB Plus Hybrid Active Noise Cancelling Headphones w/ LDAC $55.99 (Was $89.99)
• Edifier WH700NB Active Noise Cancelling Headphones $39.99 (Was $49.99)

Willing to spend a little more? Here are flagship earbuds at amazing prices:

• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $199 (Was $279)
• Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) $189.99 (Was $249)
• Sennheiser MOMENTUM True Wireless 3 Earbuds $167.50 (Was $279.95)
• Sony WF-1000XM5 True Wireless Bluetooth LDAC Noise-Canceling Earbuds $248 (Was $299)
• Sony LinkBuds S True Wireless Noise-Canceling Earbuds $128 (Was $199)
• Questyle NHB12 In-Ear Wired Headphones with Lightning Connector [Apple MFi Certified] for 192kHz Hi-Res Music $239 (Was $299)
• Linsoul 7HZ Timeless AE 14.2mm Planar HiFi In-Ear Earphone $207 (Was $299)

The post These are the best Black Friday headphone & earbud deals you can still get appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Apple doesn’t discount its own hardware, and although the company is currently holding a Black Friday promotion in which you get gift cards toward a future purchase, there are deals out there that save you money immediately. We’ve scoured the web to find the best Black Friday discounts on Apple hardware, and have come up with a surprising amount of deals. If you’ve been holding off on getting a new piece of gear for the right price, now is the time to shop. We wouldn’t be surprised if many of these items sell out before the day is done.

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Generation) $189.99 (Was $249)

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Apple’s AirPods 2 are the company’s latest true wireless earbuds, and they’re down to their lowest price ever on Black Friday thanks to a $60 discount. The earbuds support active noise cancellation, are IPX5 water-resistant, and last up to six hours per charge. Their included battery case can fully recharge them four times. These earbuds support Spatial Audio, which means they can decode music and movie soundtracks with a Dolby Atmos mix and give you the feeling of listening to music in surround sound on speakers. This feature works shockingly well. Additionally, the processor in each earbud optimizes and adjusts its sound in real-time, so you always get the best EQ setting. No true wireless earbuds are as good for all-around use as the AirPods Pro 2, and this discount makes them even easier to recommend.

AirPods deals

• Apple AirPods (2nd Generation) $79.99 (Was $129)
• Apple AirPods (3rd Generation) $139.99 (Was $169)
• Apple AirPods Max $449.99 (Was $549)

MacBook deals

• 15-Inch M2 MacBook Air $1,049 (Was $1,299)
• 13-Inch M1 MacBook Air $749 (Was $999)
• 16-Inch M3 Pro MacBook Pro $2,299 (Was $2,499)

iPad deals

• iPad (9th Generation) $249.99 (Was $329.99)
• iPad (10th Generation) $349 (Was $449)
• iPad Air $649.99 (Was $749.99)
• 11-Inch iPad Pro $849 (Was $899)
• 12.9-Inch iPad Pro $1,139 (Was $1,199)

HomePod deals

• HomePod Mini $94.99 (Was $99.99)
• HomePod (2nd Generation) $284.99 (Was $299.99)

Mac Mini deals

• M2 Mac Mini $499 (Was $599)
• M2 Pro Mac Mini $1,234.05 (was $1,299)

Mac Studio deals

• M2 Max Mac Studio $1,899.05 (Was $1,999)
• M2 Ultra Mac Studio $3,799.05 (Was $3,999)

Apple Watch deals

• Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS) 41mm $349 (Was $399)
• Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS) 45mm $379 (Was $429)
• Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS + Cellular) 41mm $699 (Was $749)
• Apple Watch Series 9 (GPS + Cellular) 45mm $749 (Was $799)
• Apple Watch Ultra 2 (GPS + Cellular) 49mm $739 (Was $799)

Need a monitor for that Mac Mini? Samsung has gaming flagships on sale.

Looking for more affordable audio? These headphones and earbuds are all under $100.

The post You can still get the best Apple products at the best prices … if you act fast appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Imagine your favorite artist just released a new album, and all you want to do is be surrounded by sound … but maybe not by speakers. Maybe you don’t have the space, budget, or just plain desire for a surround sound system. But you’re worried a two-channel system can’t quite satisfy you. After spending three months with a pair of Dymension DM70 floor-standing speakers, I can say … definitively … that one can. Whether I’m streaming, playing CDs, or enjoying my latest pressing from Vinyl Me Please, these loudspeakers don’t need Atmos to be immersive. If I were buying a music lover an indulgent gift right now (and you can be your indulgent music lover in question), these are what I’d buy. And, at hundreds less than their typical prices, they’ve never been more affordable … if you act fast.

Definitive Technology Dymension DM70 Large Tower Speakers $1,399.00 each (was $1,999.00)

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They may look like the 2001 monolith, but what’s under the minimalist fabric cover makes the DM70 speakers multidimensional. Each three-way tower has a bipolar array, meaning two 5.25-inch long-throw midrange drivers and a 1-inch aluminum oxide dome tweeter on each side. And the reflections of those rear-focused channels mean there’s enveloping energy throughout the room. Anchoring that expansive soundstage is the integrated powered 10-inch subwoofer and two passive radiators within each speaker. That’s a lot of muscularity rounding out pure musicality, and it’s available for $600 off—a total of $1,200 in savings per pair.

The DM70 towers are basically 2.1 systems and don’t need a separate sub to shine (just add wall outlets for the Class D 180W amplifiers and a sturdy floor), but the balanced bipolar arrays do require external power. I’ve been using a Cambridge Audio Evo 150 and NAD C 700 at various times because I’m a fan of compact network players/integrated amps. But if you do end up wanting a 5.1 or 7.1 system, you can use a powerful multichannel AV receiver and expand the system with DM60 mid-sized towers for the rears, a DM20 center speaker, and DM90 height modules (all of which are on sale right now).

Here are additional audio components offering more for less:

• Sony STR-AN1000 7.2 CH Surround Sound Home Theater 8K A/V Receiver $598 (was $899)
• Denon AVR-X3800H 9.4-Ch 8K UHD Home Theater AVR $1,296.71 (was $1,699)
• Cambridge Audio CXN V2 Stereo Network Streamer $899 (was $999)
• Bluesound Node Wireless Multi-Room High-Resolution Music Streamer $448 (was $549)
• Focal Theva No.1 2-Way Bass-Reflex Bookshelf Loudspeakers (pair) $798 (was $998)
• Polk Audio Legend L100 Bookshelf Speaker (Single, Brown Walnut) $849 (was $999)
• Polk Audio T50 150 Watt Home Theater Floor Standing Tower Speaker (Single, Black) $199 (was $249)
• Klipsch R-41M Powerful Detailed Bookshelf Home Speaker (pair) $149 (was $279)
• KEF Q350 Bookshelf Speakers (pair) $499 (was $799)
• KEF LSX II Wireless HiFi Speaker System $999.98 (was $1,399.99)
• Q Acoustics M20 Bluetooth Speakers HD Wireless Speakers Music System $399 (was $499)
• Fluance Ai41 Powered 2-Way 2.0 Stereo Bookshelf Speakers with 5″ Drivers $211.96 (was $249)
• Cambridge Audio ALVA ST Belt Drive Turntable with Bluetooth aptX HD $499 (was $599)
• Fluance RT81 Belt Drive Turntable with Audio Technica AT95E Cartridge & Built-in Preamp $211 (was $249)
• Sennheiser IE 600 Wired Audiophile Earphones $499 (was $699)
• Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 660S2 – Wired Audiophile Stereo Headphones $399 (was $599)
• Sennheiser HD 800 S Over-the-Ear Audiophile Reference Headphones $1,499 (was $1,699)
• Focal Bathys Over-Ear Hi-Fi Bluetooth Wireless Headphones with Active Noise Cancelation $629 (was $799)
• Focal Clear Mg Open-back over-ear wired headphones $1,199 (Was $1,499)

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Black Friday is the time to get a big deal on a pair of pricey headphones you’ve lusted after for months. You can get up to a whopping 51-percent off Beats headphones at Amazon before Thanksgiving with this Black Friday deal at Amazon.

Apple Beats Studio Pro Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones $169.95 (Was $349.99)

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Get up to 40 hours of total battery life with the Apple Beats Studio Pro headphones. Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) and Transparency modes let you choose how to listen. Lossless audio and three built-in sound profiles let you customize what you want to hear. They also pair with a single touch for Android and Apple products.

Sony WH-1000XM5 Wireless Noise Canceling Headphones $328 (Was $399.99)

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The Sony WH-1000XM5—the leveled-up cousin of the Sony WH-1000XM4—is also on sale for $328, down from $399.99. That’s the lowest price we’ve seen it, and you’d be remiss not to snag one of the best Bluetooth headphones out there.

Here are more headphone deals from Sennheiser, Bose, and more you should tune into:

• Apple Beats Powerbeats Pro Wireless Earbuds $149.95 (Was $249.95)
• Beats Studio Pro with AppleCare+ for Headphones (2 Years)-Black $194.95 (Was $378.99)
• Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 650 $279 (Was $499.95)
• Sennheiser Consumer Audio HD 560 S Over-The-Ear Audiophile Headphones $149.95 (Was $229.25)
• Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones, Over-Ear Headphones $199 (Was $329)
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds $249 (Was $299)
• Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II $199 (Was $279)
• JBL Vibe Beam True Wireless Headphones-Black, Small $29.95 (Was $49.95)
• JBL Tune Flex-True Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds (Black), Small $49.95 (Was $99.95)
• SHOKZ OpenRun Mini-Bone Conduction Open-Ear Bluetooth Sport Headphones $89.95 (Was $129.95)
• Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphone, Black $99.99 (Was $149.99)
• Marshall Minor III True Wireless In-Ear Headphones, Black $89.99 (Was $129.99)
  

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We all love getting lost in our favorite music, but how do mix engineers in the studio keep the frequencies in that music from losing focus? One way is using studio-minded headphones—which is where something like the MDR-MV1, Sony’s latest pair custom-made for sound engineers and industry professionals, come in.

The headphones you love for listening might not be the best for monitoring, and vice versa. You choose the former for their coloration, for whether they emphasize your favorite parts of the audio spectrum, and the latter for whether they manage playback that doesn’t enhance lows and highs for artificial excitement. If you are studio-minded, there are plenty of classic choices to choose from, like the Beyerdynamic DT-1990 or the Sennheiser HD800S, but if you’ve worked around a recording console, the venerable Sony MDR-7506 has surely crossed your radar at some point in time. They’ve been the affordable choice for session musicians and engineers alike for more than 30 years. However, if you loved those headphones but wanted something more recent or higher quality from Sony, you have been out of luck … until now. The MDR-MV1 builds on the design of the MDR-7506 with a decidedly higher quality build and more refined sound. Accuracy and detail are the name of the game for this set, and coupled with its truly exceptional comfort, the Sony MDR-MV1 is a serious contender for recording professionals and audiophiles alike—once you consider certain things.

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Overview

• Sony has updated its studio line-up with its highest-resolution headphones yet.
• The comfort of the MDR-MV1 is phenomenal and can be worn for hours without issue.
• While they don’t have the wide soundstage of great audiophile cans, they have excellent layer separation and detail for mixing.
• Designed for spatial mixing, these headphones preserve positional details in the mix, allowing you to make key tweaks post-recording.

Pros

• Outstanding comfort and build quality
• Detail rich and atmospheric listening experience
• Well balanced for mixing with enough “oomph” in the bass for realistic monitoring
• Exceptionally wide frequency response

Cons

• Its improvements come at a significantly higher price
• No storage case to keep them safe between sessions

The Verdict: The Sony MDR-MV1 offers the exceptional clarity, comfort, and spatial awareness needed to make your mixes shine … or smolder or soar, whatever vibe you’re going for. 

The build

There are a lot of things to appreciate about the Sony MDR-MV1, and build quality is foremost among them—which you would hope to be true in a $399 headphone. It has an airy fit that first makes you question how well-built it could be and then appreciate it all the more. At only 223 grams, it’s one of the lightest professional monitoring headphones you can buy and comes in around 40% lighter than the venerable DT-1990s and less than half that of the Audeze’s latest mixing cans, the MM-500. Both are among our picks for the best mixing headphones, and I suspect the MV1 will soon find its place alongside them.

What makes its light mass so remarkable is that Sony has incorporated a plentiful amount of aluminum into its design rather than the pure plastic of the MDR-7506—a headphone that is heavier than the MV1. The earcups and headband are both metal, with intricate holes milled in the cups to enable their open-back design. The impressive detail is the kind of design you’ll only appreciate more the closer you look. More importantly, the headphones have a robustness you can feel with minimal handling. A drop when reaching across the mixing board shouldn’t slay these headphones. It’s a workhorse headphone if I’ve ever seen one.

Though the carved-out cups have a unique aesthetic, these aren’t headphones that scream “audiophile” in the artsy way fancy planar magnetics and higher-end dynamics sometimes do (I’m looking at you, Dan Clark Stealth and HIFIMAN Audivina). Apart from the perforated cups, they have a very restrained, professional look. Matte black across the board, slim and low-profile fabric cushions, red and blue channel stamps: the MV1 follows the same design as other Sony engineering cans, so will be right at home in any commercial or bedroom studio. 

Internally, the headphones use specially designed low-distortion 40mm dynamic drivers with custom-shaped and corrugated diaphragms to deliver their sonic experience. With an ultra-wide frequency response of 5Hz to 80,000Hz, they can accurately reproduce the entire range of human hearing (and beyond) with exceptional clarity and low distortion. The open-back design of the headphones naturally reduces reflections within the housings that might otherwise impact dynamics (and requires you to use them in a controlled, low-noise environment), but Sony has also added acoustic dampeners throughout the structure to silence them further. This creates a directionality to the flow of soundwaves from the back of the headset, improving its spatial accuracy.

This is important because these headphones have been designed with more than stereo mixing in mind. Spatial audio is on the rise across the headphone industry (delivered via Dolby Atmos by Apple and as “360 Reality Audio” on Sony products), and being able to mix for spatial dynamics accurately is more important than ever. These headphones must (and do) excel in monitoring accuracy and deliver an exceptional yet accurate, not exaggerated, sound field. It’s a consideration that older generations of closed-back mixing headphones didn’t have to factor in but is an active element of the Sony MV1’s design, developed in conjunction with Sony’s 360 Virtual Mixing Environment (360VME) service.

Though sound is clearly the most important element of any pair of headphones, comfort is a close second when you’re wearing them all day. Their low weight, breathable velvety cushions, and well-balanced clamp force make them a treat to wear. Top-of-head soreness is a real issue with heavier headphones, but hot spots aren’t a concern here. When you need a break, the ear cups pivot to rest around your neck and are slim enough not to bump your chin. The only criticism I might levy against them is that the pads are a bit thin, which left my ears touching the inner fabric of the cushions. Even so, I could wear these for the better part of an entire workday without any discomfort whatsoever and could have continued doing so had the day gone longer.

There’s no storage case included with the headphones, which is a bit disappointing for their price, but it does come with an excellent cable. At just over eight feet long, it provides the freedom of movement necessary to navigate the studio. It screws into the left ear cup, so you won’t need to worry about untimely snags pulling it free. It’s also delightfully soft with virtually no cable memory. It falls straight, wraps straight, and isn’t prone to tangling, which is just about perfect as far as cables go. It terminates in a standard 6.35mm connection to interface with most audio gear, but Sony also includes a 3.5mm adapter for use with laptops and portable DACs that may lack the bigger port. 

Overall, the Sony MDR-MV1 is a remarkably well-built, well-designed, and exceptionally comfortable pair of headphones. Audiophiles may find themselves wishing for a shorter cable, but it’s safe to say that Sony knocked it out of the part with its design and wearability.

The sound 

As a longtime veteran of the bedroom recording scene, I’ve recorded with enough gear to know what makes a great pair of monitoring cans, and the MV1 has it. The sound is balanced but not neutral to the point of anemic. It’s energetic but not sharp, spacious but not extravagant. It’s a headphone designed for accurate monitoring and reproducible results and delivers on that promise. 

Accuracy, in this case, doesn’t mean a completely flat frequency response, but it does mean a balanced and revealing one. There’s a delightful body to the sound—primarily in the mid- to upper-bass, as sub-bass is limited by the nature of open-backs—which allows instruments and percussion to present fully without being magnified. It’s more punch than slam but delivers even at low listening levels, which is impressive. Meanwhile, the mids, where much of a mix is clustered, are slightly forward and smooth without being glossy, maintaining the detail needed to sculpt space for each stem. Vocals are ahead in the way a singer may stand in front of a band to lead a live show—engaging and immediate but not overwhelming. The crisp highs allow upper harmonics to sound and instruments to ring out with true-to-life timbre, helping you spot imperfections.

The spatial presentation is exceptionally well-balanced. I admit, my first impression was one of disappointment … until I listened further. These headphones don’t deliver the width of a great set of audiophile cans, but they do deliver separation between the instruments needed to carve frequencies and ensure imaging. There’s a depth to the listening experience, an easy perceptibility of layer upon layer, coming together to create a track. Each is discernible with even casual listening. If something is off, you’ll hear it in an instant. Stereo imaging is also excellent with excellent directional cues and clear panning between each channel.

My personal ah-ha moment came between recording a sample track and listening back in my car. This, I’ve learned over years of home recording, is one area where monitoring failures become apparent. I’ve had mixes that sounded great in my headphones suddenly sound alternatively bloated and muddy or shrill and grating in the car. The game of cat and mouse chasing these shortcomings down, remastering, and relistening can extend to multiple repeats and lost hours if not for a great pair of studio headphones. 

The MV1 nailed the mix on the first try. There’s enough bass to match a master in a realistic listening environment. There’s enough treble to hear accuracy in tone and the minute details of a performance. The mids are centered, balanced, and presented with an eye to rendering a final product. It’s not perfectly neutral but transparent nonetheless.

What’s especially magic about these headphones is that the tuning manages to be enjoyable even if you never plan to mix a single track. Audiophiles will find a lot to love here. Its low-end response and relative fullness compared to a set like the beyerdynamic DT-990 PROs make it a genuinely fun set to get lost with. Zach Bryan’s “Something in the Orange” was atmospheric in a way I had never appreciated before, and the balance between vocals and acoustic guitars was enrapturing. These are headphones to mix and appreciate mixes with.

The conclusion

The Sony MDR-MV1 is an evolution. It applies the lessons learned from generations of Sony MDR studio monitors and addresses concerns levied at some of its most dominant competition. It’s lightweight and comfortable and won’t leave your head sore. Its transients soar but aren’t egregiously sizzling. It offers depth and space but isn’t unrealistically wide. And just as importantly as its response is energetic and immersive when the mix calls for it, it’s flat-out fun to listen to when away from the faders. While it’s hundreds more than its closed-back precursor, it’s reasonably priced compared to direct competitors. And, because it doesn’t go for the unerring analytical response inspired by a traditional studio monitor, it’s better prepared for localizing objects and the (re)creation of songs in virtual surround. Put succinctly, these headphones are a well-rounded win and are well worth the investment for engineers and audiophiles alike.   

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If you’re traveling for the holiday, there’s probably still time to order these fantastic Bose noise-canceling headphones for the trip. Starting at just $200, Amazon has deep discounts on some of the best noise-canceling over-the-ear and earbuds on the market. These are the lowest prices we’ve seen on some of these models, and you likely won’t get any better discount if you wait until after Turkey Day.

Bose QuietComfort 45 Wireless Bluetooth Noise Cancelling Headphones $199 (was $329)

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This is the bread-and-butter Bose model. They have a slick, traditional design, powerful drivers, and some of the most effective active noise canceling you’ll ever experience. The customizable EQ allows you to tweak their performance to your liking and each battery charge provides up to 22 hours of listening. These are our choice for the best headphones for work since they fit better and feel less sweaty than the still-excellent Sony WH-1000XM5 (which also happens to be on sale for $328 if you prefer them).

More Bose headphones deals during Amazon’s early Black Friday sale:

• NEW Bose QuietComfort Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones $249 (was $349)
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Earbuds $249 (was $299)
• Bose QuietComfort Ultra Wireless Noise Cancelling Headphones with Spatial Audio $379 (was $429)

More headphone deals from other great brands:

• JBL Tune 660NC: Wireless On-Ear Headphones with Active Noise Cancellation $49 (was $99)
• JBL Tune 710BT Wireless Over-Ear – Bluetooth Headphones with Microphone $39 (was $79)
• JBL Tune 510BT: Wireless On-Ear Headphones with Purebass Sound $24 (was $49)
• Sony LinkBuds S Truly Wireless Noise Canceling Earbud Headphones $128 (was $199)
• Sony WF-C700N Truly Wireless Noise Canceling in-Ear Bluetooth Earbud Headphones $88 (was $119)
• Sony SRS-NB10 Wireless Neckband Bluetooth Speaker $98 (was $149)
• Google Pixel Buds A-Series – Wireless Earbuds $59 (was $99)

If your vibe is more wireless speaker systems and flagship headphones, check out these amazing early Black Friday audiophile deals.

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It’s no secret that Black Friday is a great time to get great deals on audio of all sorts, but it’s surprising how many deals you can get in the week before. You can save hundreds on audiophile components, headphones and earbuds both big and small, and everything in between.

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Want to get wrapped up in your favorite playlists, not tangled in cords? Grab a pair of powered, connected speakers by British high-end audio products designer KEF. The KEF LS50 Wireless II speakers are some of our personal favorites when it comes to WiFi HiFi, even at full price. So at $1,999.99 (down from $2,799.99), they are an even bigger recommendation. Got less space and cash? The KEF LSX II compact connected speaker system is among the best pound-for-pound self-amplified pairs available to bring unrestricted listening to constricted quarters, fits perfectly on either side of your workstation, and is only $999.99 (typically $1,399.99). No matter which you pick, you’ll get a wide sweet spot and plentiful connectivity.

No budget for wireless all-in-ones? No problem

When it comes to enjoying more audio and less wires, Bluetooth speakers have become a must-have accessory. And if you haven’t picked one up (or need a personal upgrade or sure-to-please gift) you’re in luck. JBL’s Flip 6 is on sale, and the pocket-friendly speaker is available at a wallet-friendly price of $89.95 (down from $129.95). The speaker can play music for up to 12 hours, be linked with another Flip 6 for true stereo sound, and be completely submerged underwater for up to 30 minutes without being damaged. A better bass-bumping, budget-busting stocking stuffer cannot be found.

Finally building the home theater? Go big or go home

Whether you’re going stereo, 3.1, or building a 5.1 surround sound system, KEF’s Q350 Bookshelf Speakers deserve a spot in your home theater setup. The 14.1-inch tall speakers are a little big for bookshelf speakers, but the extra space is there to accommodate a 6.5-inch unified woofer and 1-inch vented aluminum dome tweeter. This two-driver system allows the speakers to cover the 64Hz – 28kHz frequency range. These speakers are passive, which means you’ll need an AV receiver or two-channel power amp to power them. And if you want to add high-resolution streaming capabilities to an existing amp, consider the Bluesound NODE, which works with iOS, Android, Mac, or PC to give you access to any imaginable streaming service, Internet radio stations, or your own digital music server. Plus, it can be part of a multiroom audio system if you own other BluOS components, and it has a headphone jack for private listening—all of which you can enjoy for only $449 right now (usually $599).

Want to treat yourself to the audio upgrade of a lifetime?

Listen, after a tough year, we all need a slice of la dolce vita, and you can create a personal audio oasis with Focals’ Celestee headphones. Normally $990, you can save $200 by shopping now. The closed-back over-ear headphones have 40mm aluminum/magnesium drivers, a frequency response range of 5Hz – 23kHz, and only .1% audio distortion at 1kHz. The headphones’ body is made from leather, copper, and aluminum, so it looks and feels totally luxe. You’ll need a computer with a high-impedance headphone jack, like a MacBook Pro, or a dedicated DAC, but the extra equipment will only serve to enhance the audio experience. The Celestee headphones are undoubtedly better than any headphones you’re using now and will help you experience your music the way it was meant to be heard. If you’re going big this holiday season, don’t miss out. And if you are looking to take some of that high-end sound with you, the Focal Bathys are some of our favorite Bluetooth headphones and are currently only $629.10 (previously $699).

Need an inexpensive pair of noise-cancelling headphones?

Want to take your listening on the go without having to forego a higher-resolution connection? If you’ve got an Android phone or digital audio player that supports the LDAC codec, check out the 1More SonoFlow. These over-ear ANC headphones are $64 after a discount and Amazon coupon, down from $100. The headphones can last up to 70 hours per charge (pending your preferred volume level and noise-cancellation preferences), LDAC supports up to 990kbps from a complementary source, and they have 12 EQ settings, so you can find the exact sound you want and cut out all the environmental distractions you don’t.

Other great audio deals for your eyes and ears:

• Tivoli Audio Model One Bluetooth AM/FM Radio, $159.99 (Was $170.99)
• Tivoli Audio Model One Digital Generation 2, $279.99 (Was $349.99)
• KEF Q150B, $349.99 (Was $550)
• JBL Pulse 5, $149.95 (Was $249.95)
• JBL PartyBox, $199.95 (Was $349.95)
• JBL Xtreme 3, $229.95 (Was $379.95)
• JBL PartyBox 110, $249.95 (Was $399.95)
• JBL Partybox 310, $399.95 (Was $549.95)
• JBL PartyBox 710, $599.95 (Was $799.95)
• Focal Clear Mg, $1,199 (Was $1,499)
• Focal Utopia, $3,999 (Was $4,999)
• 1MORE Fit Open Earbuds S50, $113.99 (Was $149.99)
• 1MORE Fit SE S30, $55.99 (Was $69.99)
• 1MORE Penta Driver Wired in-Ear Headphones, $144.49 (Was $169.99)
• 1MORE SonoFlow SE, $49.49 (Was $54.99)
• 1MORE Aero Wireless Earbuds, $59.49 (was $84.99)
• 1MORE PistonBuds Pro, $34.99 (Was $49.99)
• 1MORE Omthing AirFree Buds, $24.89 (Was $29.99)

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Best overall		AKG Pro Audio C414 XLII Condenser Microphone		SEE IT	Thanks to its nine switchable polar patterns and three-setting pad, the C414 XLII is particularly suited for experimentation and strategic placement all around a drum kit.
Best kit		Sennheiser e600 Drum Microphone Kit		SEE IT	One of the best drum mic kits available thanks to its durable components, versatile design, and record-ready sound quality.
Best budget		Shure DMK57-52 Drum Mic Kit		SEE IT	A durable drum mic kit offering an excellent entry-level collection that can satisfy now and be complemented with more expensive mics later.

Few instruments in live and recorded music have the power to convey such an immediately broad emotional, dynamic, and textural range as drums and percussion. While there are many different ways to mic up a drum kit depending on the setting and purpose, starting with the right collection of drum mics is the key to faithfully capturing and translating the sound of this all-important rhythm instrument. In this roundup, we’ll cover the best single drum mic for recording an entire kit as well as the best microphones for capturing specific components like kick, snare, and cymbals. While this isn’t meant to be an exhaustive list, we aimed to include all the best drum mics for a broad range of genres and uses.

• Best overall: AKG C414 XLII
• Best for bass drum: AKG D12VR 
• Best for snare drum: Shure SM57
• Best for overheads: Telefunken M60 FET
• Best for toms: Sennheiser MD421-II
• Best for versatility: Beyerdynamic M201
• Best clip-on: Beyerdynamic TG D58
• Best kit: Sennheiser e600 Drum Microphone Kit
• Best budget: Shure DMK57-52 Drum Mic Kit

How we chose the best drum mics

As is the case in most artistic endeavors, there’s no objectively “best” tool for a job. We’ve assembled this list accordingly, selecting the most versatile microphones for each use case and opting for products that can also be used on other musical instruments. We also placed great emphasis on brand reputation when compiling this list and chose a mixture of longstanding products like the Shure SM57, and more evolved designs like the AKG D12VR. This article was written from a perspective primarily rooted in studio recording, but most of the microphones on this list will also work very well in live applications.

The best drum mics: Reviews & Recommendations

If you’re looking to buy a microphone, it’s important to consider the context in which it’ll be used. Are you primarily recording, running live sound, or a mix of both? For studio recording, a wide range of drum mic designs can be used due to the acoustically controlled nature of the space. In this context, condenser mics like the AKG C414 XLII or ribbon microphones like the Beyerdynamic M160 are great options. For live use, consider using primarily dynamic microphones due to their focused performance and durability. Many microphones excel in both live and studio contexts, including the Sennheiser e604 and Telefunken M60 FET. It’s never a bad idea to try before you buy, so we’ve compiled our list of buy-worthy mics for you to try.

Best overall: AKG C414 XLII

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Why it made the cut: The AKG C414 XLII is a rugged, versatile, and accurate-sounding microphone suitable for recording an entire drum kit or every individual component thereof.

Specs

• Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid, subcardioid, hypercardioid, omni, figure-8
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
• Weight: 0.66 pounds
• Maximum SPL: 140 dB (146, 152, or 158 dB with pad)
• Phantom Powered: Yes
• Accessories: Case, windscreen, pop filter, shock mount, stand mount

Pros

• Wide range of sound and recording placement options
• Sculpted, natural tone suitable for any drum kit, percussion, or instrument
• One of the most affordable and versatile all-around pro-level studio mics

Cons

• Price

If you’re looking for a single mic that accurately captures every component of a drum kit, you’ll have a hard time finding a better option than the AKG C414 XLII. The latest model of a condenser microphone first introduced by AKG in 1971, the C414 XLII has a characteristically mellow and flat frequency response that flatters a wide range of sources from drums and cymbals to vocals and amplifiers. Thanks to its nine switchable polar patterns and three-setting pad, the C414 XLII is particularly suited for experimentation and strategic placement at various points around a drum kit, allowing users to capture balanced and high-quality recordings with a single microphone. While its roughly $1,200 price tag may deter some people, the AKG C414 XLII is so versatile in the studio that it’s worth considering, especially if you want to purchase a single drum mic that can do it all.

Best for bass drum: AKG D12 VR

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Why it made the cut: The AKG D12 VR features a vintage-inspired transformer and three EQ filters that perfectly complement the bass drum in live and studio applications.

Specs

• Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 17Hz – 17kHz 
• Weight: 1.1 pounds
• Maximum
• SPL: 164 dB
• Phantom Powered: Optional
• Accessories: N/A

Pros

• Use with or without phantom power for four distinct sound profiles
• Built with a resonant chamber and thin capsule for extended bass response
• Very high SPL of 164 decibels

Cons

• Price

Based upon the company’s legendary D12 microphone—a variation of which sat permanently in front of Ringo Starr’s kick drum at Abbey Road Studios—the AKG D12 VR is a unique and versatile vintage-inspired mic that’s built for modern music production. Thanks to its ultra-thin membrane capsule and resonant chamber, the AKG D12 VR’s response reaches an incredibly low 17Hz, allowing for accurate important subharmonic information from kick drums and other low-frequency sources. Unlike most dynamic mics, the D12 VR also features a unique phantom power mode that grants users access to three active EQ filters, each of which further sculpts the microphone’s tone to capture a more production-ready kick sound. While this mic is a bit pricier than its competitors, it’s hands-down the most versatile bass drum mic we’ve tested. If you’re looking for a classic and easy-to-use sound but want to save some coin, the Shure Beta 52A costs about $400 less.

Best for snare drum: Shure SM57

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Why it made the cut: The venerable Shure SM57 is the music industry’s go-to for snare drum and guitar amps thanks to its distinct presence boost and near-indestructible design.

Specs

• Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 40Hz – 15kHz
• Weight: 0.63 pounds
• Maximum SPL: 160 dB
• Phantom Powered: No
• Accessories: Mic clip

Pros

• Great off-axis sound rejection for clean snare sounds
• Very high SPL and rugged drumstick-resistant design
• Affordable

Cons

• Works best in concert with other mics

If you’ve ever been to a live rock concert or listened to a drum recording, you’ve almost certainly heard the sound of a Shure SM57. Lauded for its extreme durability, distinctive high-frequency boost, and affordable price point, the SM57 is a great choice for capturing the lively snap of loud instruments like snare drums both in studios and on stage. Thanks to its narrow shape and cardioid polar pattern, the Shure SM57 has relatively good off-axis sound rejection, allowing it to capture direct sources without much sonic “bleed” from other directions. Because of its nearly indestructible chassis design, the SM57 can also endure errant blows from drumsticks, accidental drops, and even high temperatures and humidity. While this mic is fantastic at capturing quick attack from loud sources, it definitely sounds best when complemented by and combined with other microphones, particularly overheads. If you’re looking for a snare mic that’s even more durable, the similarly-priced Audix i5 is a great option with a more mid-scooped sound.

Best for overheads: Telefunken M60 FET

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Why it made the cut: The Telefunken M60 FET is an ideal overhead mic thanks to its very fast transient response and high-frequency lift, which allow for smooth and detailed sound capture.
Specs

• Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 31.5kHz
• Weight: 0.26 pounds
• Maximum SPL: 130 dB
• Phantom Powered: Yes
• Accessories: Case, shock mount, windscreen, cable

Pros

• Punchy and natural sound
• Small, lightweight mic comes with a case and cable
• Optional screw-on capsules offer access to omnidirectional and hypercardioid pickup patterns

Cons

• Sensitive to humidity

The Telefunken M60 FET is a small-diaphragm condenser mic that sounds great on cymbals, percussion, and other harmonically complex sources thanks to its natural sonic profile and precise transient response. It features a flat midrange, an ear-pleasing presence boost at 8 kHz, and a very high SPL limit that allows it to capture dynamic and accurate recordings across the frequency spectrum. When used in a pair, the M60 FET’s screw-on cardioid capsule is perfect for recording in traditional overhead configurations like XY and ORTF, but users can also swap in separately sold hypercardioid and omnidirectional capsules for even more creative options. While many varieties of microphones work for overhead use, small-diaphragm condenser mics like the Telefunken M60 FET excel at capturing the highest frequencies in great detail. If you’re looking for a moodier drum sound with less high-frequency emphasis and slower transients, a ribbon microphone like the Beyerdynamic M160 is a great alternative.

Best for toms: Sennheiser MD421-II

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Why it made the cut: The Sennheiser MD421-II is a durable, dynamic mic with an accurate and customizable low-end response that’s perfect for toms.

Specs

• Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 30Hz – 17kHz 
• Weight: 0.85 pounds
• Maximum SPL: 160 dB
• Phantom Powered: No
• Accessories: Mic clip

Pros

• Durable construction and high SPL limit
• Internal tubes allow for accurate bass reproduction
• 5-position low-cut for fine-tuning sounds

Cons

• Size

Pairing rugged SPL handling and durable construction with fantastic low-end accuracy, the Sennheiser MD421-II is favored in studios everywhere for recording toms, guitar amps, and kick drum. The microphone’s internal construction features a series of internal tubes to aid with bass reproduction, aided further by a 5-way bass rolloff switch that allows engineers to fine-tune the mic’s sound to their liking. While the MD421 is a bit large owing to its aforementioned internal bass tubes, its impact-resistant glass composite housing and stainless steel mesh ensure it won’t be put out of commission if it’s accidentally hit. If you’re looking to buy a tom mic that’s smaller and more suited for live use, the clip-on Sennheiser e604 is a very good alternative that also happens to cost a fair bit less.

Best for versatility: Beyerdynamic M201

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Why it made the cut: The Beyerdynamic M201 is a dynamic microphone that works equally well on snare drum and guitar amps.

Specs

• Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Hypercardioid
• Frequency Response: 40Hz – 18kHz
• Weight: 0.5 pounds
• Maximum SPL: Not published
• Phantom Powered: No
• Accessories: Mic clip
  

Pros

• Hypercardioid pattern delivers good off-axis rejection
• Natural condenser-like sound profile
• Very high SPL limit typical of dynamic mics

Cons

• Best when used up close

If you’re a multi-instrumentalist or engineer looking to save money and studio space, consider the Beyerdynamic M201 dynamic mic as an option for snare drum, toms, and other musical sources. Thanks to its flat midrange response and natural high-end lift, the M201 has a surprisingly condenser-like sound that brings life to acoustic guitar, electric guitar amp, vocals, and other harmonic sources. This sonic profile also makes the M201 adept at capturing punchy, airy snare drum sounds with little EQ required, making it a unique alternative to traditional snare mics like the Shure SM57. Because of its hypercardioid pickup pattern and dynamic design, the Beyerdnamic M201 isn’t ideal for area miking duties like overheads, but we found it to be excellent at rejecting sound from other elements when placed close to hi-hat and snare.

Best clip-on: Beyerdynamic TG D58

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Why it made the cut: The TG58 from Beyerdynamic is a unique clip-on mic that can capture tons of detail in a very compact package.

Specs

• Type: Condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz 
• Weight: 0.3 pounds
• Maximum SPL: 140 dB
• Phantom Powered: Yes
• Accessories: Mic clip

Pros

• Unique mic clip design and gooseneck great for tight spaces
• Fantastic attack and detail
• Suspended capsule design provides durability

Cons

• Cardioid pattern may pick up nearby elements

The Beyerdynamic TG D58 is one of the best clip-on drum mics we’ve tested, thanks to its stable clamp mechanism and unique condenser-based design. While many clip-on drum mics are dynamic designs due to their inherently rugged properties, the TG D58 manages to pack a compact electret condenser capsule into a resilient and drum-friendly design, giving it a uniquely natural, detailed, and open sound not often found in a clip-on mic. The microphone itself is incredibly compact and easy to position thanks to its tiny capsule and 0.78-inch gooseneck, allowing for quicker and more consistent setup routines even in tight spaces. Due to its cardioid pickup pattern, the TG D58 can have some trouble with off-axis noise rejection when placed in close proximity to elements like cymbals and hi-hats, but experimentation with the mic’s gooseneck is usually more than enough to alleviate this effect.

Best kit: Sennheiser e600 Drum Microphone Kit

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Why it made the cut: The Sennheiser e600 Drum Microphone Kit is easy to set up and versatile enough to use on stage or in a studio.

Specs

• Type: 7 microphones; dynamic and condenser
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid, supercardioid
• Frequency Response: 20Hz – 20kHz
• Weight: 1.6 pounds
• Maximum SPL: 139 dB – 160 dB
• Phantom Powered: Condensers, yes; dynamics, no
• Accessories: Case, mic clips

Pros

• Production-ready sound suitable for stage and studio
• Covers kick, snare, three toms, and overheads
• Versatile microphones work on a variety of other musical sources

Cons

• Pricey

The Sennheiser e600 Drum Microphone Kit is one of the best drum mic kits available thanks to its durable components, versatile design, and record-ready sound quality. The kit features an e602 dynamic kick mic, four clip-on e604 dynamic mics for snare and toms, and two e614 pencil condenser mics for overheads. These same microphones can also be mixed and matched to use on a variety of other sources, including guitar amps, bass amps, and stringed instruments, giving this kit great value as a studio investment whether or not it’s your first foray into microphone shopping. While the Sennheiser e600 Drum Mic Kit is a bit pricey, its top-notch sound quality and build quality are likely to save you plenty of work when it comes time to mix.

Best budget: Shure DMK57-52 Drum Mic Kit

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Why it made the cut: The Shure DMK57-52 kit includes all the microphones you need to record a full drum set for under $500.

Specs

• Type: Dynamic
• Polar Pattern: Cardioid
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz – 20 kHz 
• Weight: 7.2 pounds
• Maximum SPL: 174 dB
• Phantom Powered: No
• Accessories: Case, mic clips, stand mounts

Pros

• Very affordable
• Multiple mounting options for drum rims and cymbal stands
• Includes carrying case

Cons

• Lacks condenser microphones

If you’re looking to venture into drum recording without breaking the bank, the Shure DMK57-52 drum mic kit offers excellent value and leaves plenty of room for your collection to grow. The kit includes a single Shure Beta 52A kick mic and three SM57s for use on snare, toms, or even overheads. While the included microphones do lack the superior sensitivity and detail of condenser mics, their rock-solid construction and classic dynamic sound offer plenty of opportunities for punchy close-miking that’s perfect for rock, funk, and other hard-hitting styles. The entire kit comes with a carrying case and several mic mounts for ease of use in difficult spaces. Best of all, the Beta 52A and SM57 are so durable and versatile that they can be paired with more expensive microphones to great effect.

Things to consider before buying the best drum mics

Are you looking to record other acoustic instruments, vocals, or amplifiers?

If you’re looking to stretch your budget or space, consider buying versatile drum mics that can also be used to capture other sources. Most of the microphones on this list were selected for their versatility; the Shure SM57 is a fantastic guitar amp mic, the Beyerdynamic M201 sounds great on acoustic guitar and stringed instruments, and the AKG C414 XLII works on everything from piano and vocals to kick drums and bass amps.

What’s your budget?

If you’re operating within a set budget, it can be significantly more affordable to buy a pre-assembled kit of drum mics than to make your purchases a la carte. We think the Sennheiser e600 Drum Microphone Kit has one of the best price-to-performance ratios available, but we also love the affordable versatility of the Shure DMK57-52 Drum Mic Kit.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best drum mics

• Best overall: AKG C414 XLII
• Best for bass drum: AKG D12VR 
• Best for snare drum: Shure SM57
• Best for overheads: Telefunken M60 FET
• Best for toms: Sennheiser MD421-II
• Best for versatility: Beyerdynamic M201
• Best clip-on: Beyerdynamic TG D58
• Best kit: Sennheiser e600 Drum Microphone Kit
• Best budget: Shure DMK57-52 Drum Mic Kit

We’ve covered a lot of ground in this article, but it’s important to remember that miking up a drum set involves creative decisions. If you’re open to using a single microphone or you want a minimalist setup, opting for a broad-range condenser mic like the AKG C414 XLII is a great idea. Kick and snare are the most important elements to add next, and we love the AKG D12 VR and Shure SM57 for those respective duties. If you’re looking for even more coverage, the Sennheiser MD421-II offers great low-end detail for toms, and the Telefunken M60 FET is perfect for capturing high-frequency cymbal detail and attack. Finally, if you prefer to skip the guesswork and go with a pre-assembled mic kit, the Sennheiser e600 Drum Microphone Kit is by far one of the best deals for the money, while the Shure DMK57-52 Drum Mic Kit is a solid option with staying power if you’re shopping on a budget.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best drum mics for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Beats Fit Pro		SEE IT	These earbuds use wingtips that fit to your ear to stay secure.
Best over-ear		TRELAB Z2		SEE IT	This more traditional design has a tough IPX4 waterproof rating that’s tough against rain and sweat.
Best budget		Otium U18 Earbuds		SEE IT	Battery life, secure fit, and an IPX7 waterproof rating make these budget headphones a solid choice for hitting the treadmill.

Choosing the right pair of running headphones is essential for getting through your workout comfortably and safely. Listening to your favorite music and podcasts while running, jogging, and participating in other endurance exercises is a great way to bear up and push yourself that extra mile. Unlike traditional headphones and earbuds that come in all shapes and sizes, often more concerned with aesthetics than activity, the best running headphones are super lightweight and snug-fitting. They typically feature waterproof designs with long battery life. We’ve selected some of the best running headphones on the market to help you make an informed decision no matter where your workout takes you.

• Best overall: Apple Beats Fit Pro
• Best bone-conduction: SHOKZ OpenRun Pro
• Most comfortable: Ultimate Ears FITS
• Best over-ear: Treblab Z2
• Best for city runs: Sony LinkBuds
• Best battery life: JBL Endurance Peak 3
• Best budget: Otium U18 Earbuds

How we chose the best running headphones

The best running headphones are wireless, and Bluetooth requires power. Running out of battery life during a workout is inconvenient at best, so we built our list with options that feature battery capacities between 10 hours and 50 hours to ensure they’ll endure through at least two average workout days before recharging. Running headphones should fit comfortably and allow the user to exercise unencumbered, so our picks are relatively lightweight and feature secure, customizable fit options. Most of the headphones on our list are earbuds, but we added an over-ear and a bone conduction option to cover every possible use scenario and style preference.

Breaking a sweat is a normal part of running, so we selected headphones with Ingress Protection ratings ranging from a splashproof IPX3 to a completely dustproof and waterproof IP68. Most of the headphones on our list offer environmental transparency/situational awareness tech, from the ambient mic modes of the JBL Endurance Peak 3 and Apple Beats Fit Pro to the actually open designs of the Sony LinkBuds and SHOKZ OpenRun Pro.

The best running headphones: Reviews & Recommendations

Running can boost the production of your brain’s endorphins and help you de-stress. With this in mind, finding the best running headphones shouldn’t be a stressful endeavor. One of our picks should help get you on a runner’s high.

Best overall: Apple Beats Fit Pro

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Why it made the cut: The Apple Beats Fit Pro earbuds combine user-friendly design and great sound in a snug-fitting form factor.

Specs

• Weight: 0.2 ounces/earbud; 2.3 ounces with case
• IP rating: IPX4 (splash-resistant)
• Battery life: 7 hours single-charge; 30 hours with case

Pros

• Features Apple H1 chip for quick pairing and spatial tracking
• Compact form factor and tight fit perfect for running
• Great sound quality with ANC and transparency modes

Cons

• Requires iOS device to use all features
• Case incompatible with wireless charging
• No multipoint pairing

We recently featured the Apple Beats Fit Pro in our roundup of the best headphones for working out, and they’re also our top pick for running. They feature a relatively neutral and well-rounded sound profile with crisp highs that make them great for a wide range of listening duties, and their inclusion of active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes make them equally useful on the road and at the gym. The Beats Fit Pro are super lightweight and compact in and out of its charging case, making them easy to keep in your pocket and comfortable to wear while active. They’re also some of the most secure earbuds we’ve tested thanks to their unique flexible wingtip design that sits firmly against the outside of your ear, aided further by three sets of interchangeable silicone ear tips.

As we mention in our full review, the Beats Fit Pro offer a user experience very similar to that of the Apple AirPods Pro thanks to their built-in H1 chip, which allows for quick and effortless pairing to your iOS device, as well as access to Apple’s immersive head tracking and spatial audio technologies. These buds do work with Android devices—you connect to them as you would any other Bluetooth earbuds—but non-iOS users will, unfortunately, miss out on those H1-provided benefits. We also wish the Beats Fit Pro featured better waterproofing than the same IPX4 rating shared by Apple’s regular line of AirPods. They also lack wireless charging and multipoint pairing, which are features that would ease switching gears before and after a run. Still, we can’t shake how we can’t shake ’em loose.

Best bone-conduction: SHOKZ OpenRun Pro

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Why it made the cut: The OpenRun Pro’s open-ear bone-conduction design allows you to work out and listen to your favorite music while maintaining full situational awareness.

Specs

• Weight: 0.95 ounces
• IP rating: IP55 (dust- and water-resistant at low pressures)
• Battery life: 10 hours single-charge

Pros

• Open-ear design for maximum situational awareness
• Highly resistant to dust and water
• Headband design stays put during the ups and downs of running

Cons

• Sound quality is limited due to design
• Audible to others
• Proprietary charging cable is inconvenient to replace

If you frequently work out in parks or along roads where you share space with bikes and cars, a pair of bone-conduction headphones like the SHOKZ OpenRun Pro will be the safest and most convenient choice for your runs. Like all of the best bone-conduction headphones, the OpenRun Pro uses vibration to send audio through your cheek and directly to your earbones, bypassing your ear canal entirely and leaving it open so you can stay aware of approaching traffic while listening to your favorite music. The OpenRun Pro weighs just under one ounce and features a snug-fitting headband design that sits comfortably around your ears and stays put through even the most strenuous sprints, and its high dust- and water-resistant design make it a great choice for exercising on any terrain in any weather.

While the design of the OpenRun Pro is perfect for maintaining situational awareness while running, it lacks bass response. That’s not entirely necessary if you’re running to podcasts or ambient/classical music, but it leaves something to be desired in dance, rock, and other bass-heavy music. Others will also be able to hear what you’re hearing, so they’re not a great choice for use on public transit or in quiet places. Plan on taking the OpenRun Pro out for multiple workouts between charges? The headphones’ 10-hour battery should be more than flexible enough, but remember that they use a proprietary magnetic charger rather than something universal like USB-C.

Most comfortable: Ultimate Ears FITS

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Why it made the cut: These ultralight running headphones from Ultimate Ears are custom-fit to your ears to deliver one of the most comfortable workout listening experiences available.

Specs 

• Weight: 0.26 ounces/earbud; 2.04 ounces with case
• IP rating: IPX3 (splash-resistant at up to 60-degree angle)
• Battery life: 8 hours single-charge; 20 hours with case

Pros

• Moldable eartips are custom-fit to your ears
• Neutral midrange frequency response with custom EQ available in-app
• Sweat-resistant design

Cons

• Design protrudes far from ear
• Sub-bass response is lacking initially
• No active noise cancellation

The Ultimate Ears FITS—or UE FITS if you’re nasty—are an incredibly comfortable and lightweight pair of custom-fit running headphones with a design and setup process that seem straight out of a sci-fi movie. After removing the FITS from their package for the first time, users simply place the earbuds in their ears and initiate the molding process via a smartphone app, during which the photosensitive polymer ear tips are literally molded to the shape of your ears with the help of some built-in flashing LEDs. Apart from downloading the app, the entire setup process takes roughly 60 seconds, after which you’re free to use the earbuds however you see fit. The process feels alien but not uncomfortable. Despite being very light and comfy, the FITS tend to protrude further from the ear than other earbuds, which may bother users who prefer a streamlined look. Those with sensitive, small ears, however, will appreciate the ability to wear them comfortably for hours.

The sound of the Ultimate Ears FITS is relatively neutral yet lacking in low frequencies out of the box; luckily, it’s easy to sculpt using the in-app EQ, so you can get lows to reach a runner’s high. They, unfortunately, don’t feature active noise cancellation, but their snug fit allows them a good measure of passive noise cancellation that can be useful in gyms and other crowded environments. The FITS’ sweat-resistant IPX3 rating is also a bit lower than the minimum IPX4 we’re used to seeing in this class of earbuds, but they’ll still make it through many a sweaty session unscathed.

Less athletically inclined but still like the idea of custom-fit earbud comfort for running errands (or the occasional power walk)? UE offers the DROPS, which have a more involved, more handcrafted process resulting in bespoke acrylic housings tailored to your personal specifications and aesthetic.

Best over-ear: Treblab Z2

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Why it made the cut: The Treblab Z2 headphones are a uniquely light, comfy over-ear option with a long battery life that makes them great for taking on a run.

Specs

• Weight: 0.53 pounds
• IP rating: IPX4 (splash-resistant)
• Battery life: 35 hours

Pros

• Super light and comfy design for running unencumbered
• Very long single-charge battery life
• Built-in control buttons are intuitive and easy to use

Cons

• No charging case
• ANC mode changes the sound profile, performs unreliably
• Prone to leaking audio

While over-ear headphones aren’t an ideal choice for running due to being much heavier and bulkier than earbuds, the Treblab Z2’s combination of lightweight comfort and long 35-hour battery life will have you covered if you have your heart set on a more traditional design. The Z2 features an IPX4 waterproof rating that’s tough enough to stand up to sweat and rain, and it has easy-to-use audio controls placed conveniently on each earcup, plus a simple switch to toggle ANC mode. They come in a custom-fit zip-up carrying case that makes them easy to stow in a gym bag, and they charge using an included micro USB cable.

The Treblab Z2’s sound profile is fairly neutral and balanced out of the box, but its ANC mode tends to roll off a lot of the headphones’ bass frequencies, giving the audio a somewhat unappealing mid-forward sound. With ANC engaged, the headphones almost give the impression of changing their EQ to mask environmental noise rather than performing active cancellation. The Treblab Z2s also feature light and airy earpads that make them very comfortable to wear while running. They do tend to leak some sound if you push the volume (not that you should, even if you push the tempo), so you’ll likely want to avoid using them in quiet or shared environments.

Best for city runs: Sony LinkBuds

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Why it made the cut: The Sony LinkBuds use a unique open-ring design to let in environmental noise while delivering the fit and sound of traditional earbuds.

Specs

• Weight: 0.14 ounces/earbud; 1.45 ounces with case
• IP rating: IPX4 (splash-resistant)
• Battery life: 5.5 hours single-charge; 17.5 hours with case

Pros

• Unique ring design lets in ambient noise
• Very comfortable and lightweight fit perfect for running
• Midrange-forward sound is great for spoken word
• EQ adjustable via the Sony Headphones Connect app

Cons

• No noise cancellation
• Very little sub-bass response
• Others can hear what you’re listening to

If you’re looking to maintain a level of situational awareness similar to that given by bone-conduction headphones but prefer the look and feel of earbuds, Sony’s innovative LinkBuds are worth considering. This unique pair of lightweight earbuds—small enough to hang from succulents, as shown above—use a ring-shaped speaker and flexible anchor to stay secure within your ear while letting in ambient noise. This makes them a great choice for running in loud environments and areas with heavy traffic. The size of each fin can be custom-fitted to your ears using an included selection of five sizes, resulting in an incredibly comfortable and snug fit that won’t budge during your run. The LinkBuds aren’t quite as easy to hear through as bone conduction headphones due to their placement in the ear canal, but they do feature a similar midrange-heavy sound with slightly more low-end. If the buds leave you wanting a little more bass, you can also fine-tune their sound further using the Sony Headphones Connect app.

Controlling the Sony LinkBuds involves either tapping directly on the earbuds or on your own facial cartilage in front of the ear, a gesture that works well but takes some getting used to. Some users reported false triggers when engaging in activity, but this effect can be mitigated by selecting the right fin size to ensure the fit is as tight as possible. Because of their open design, the LinkBuds also tend to leak sound and provide no form of noise cancellation at all, so while they might not be the best choice for critical listening unless you’re in the quietest environment (one that wouldn’t mind hearing a bit of what you’re enjoying), there’s really nothing else quite like them if you prefer the fit and feel of earbuds.

Best battery life: JBL Endurance Peak 3

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Why it made the cut: These rugged IP68 earbuds pack up to 50 hours of battery life thanks to their charging case, making them ideal for travel and frequent use.

Specs

• Weight: 0.9 ounces/earbud; 4.5 ounces with case
• IP rating: IP68 (dustproof and waterproof for 30 minutes)
• Battery life: 10 hours single-charge; 50 hours with case

Pros

• Highly waterproof and dustproof
• Very secure-fitting ear hook design
• Super long battery life

Cons

• Lack active noise canceling
• No multipoint pairing or wireless charging
• Muddy and low-heavy sound, but can be EQ’d

JBL’s new Peak Endurance 3 running headphones are a fantastic option if you run daily but don’t always have the opportunity (or memory) to charge your devices. They feature a generous 10-hour single-charge battery life plus another 50 hours thanks to their compact charging case, making them a great choice for stowing in a gym bag or for traveling. The fit of the Endurance Peak 3s uses a wireless ear hook design (JBL refers to the hooks as “TwistLock ear hook enhancers”) similar to that of the Powerbeats Pro, which goes around the back of your ear and works in tandem with three silicone ear tip options, resulting in a comfortable wearing experience that remains stable while running despite not going too far into the ear canal. They even stay stable while doing side plank rotations. The Endurance Peak 3s are also waterproof and dustproof at a very high IP68 level, which makes them impervious to salt water and easy to clean with a simple rinse.

The sound of the Endurance Peak 3s is a bit muddy out of the box, but JBL’s companion app provides an easy-to-use EQ that helps sculpt their sound to your liking. They also don’t have active noise-cancelling abilities, but the tips combined with their shape do a good job of blocking out your surroundings. Still, they do feature JBL’s Ambient Aware mode, which is effective for engaging in conversation at the gym or on the street without having to pause and remove them from your ears. However, we wish they featured conveniences like multipoint device pairing and wireless charging. And, the ear hooks get in the way of sunglasses, which is a pain while running outdoors in the bright sun. If these aren’t major cons for you, their secure fit, battery life, and ease of use make these headphones perfect for running in nearly every way. 

Best budget: Otium U18 Earbuds

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Why it made the cut: Otium’s U18 earbuds feature a secure ear hook design similar to that found in running headphones three times their price.

Specs

• Weight: 3.52 ounces
• IP rating: IPX7 (waterproof for 30 minutes; not dustproof)
• Battery life: 15 hours

Pros

• Great battery life and secure fit on a budget
• IPX7 waterproof for sweaty workouts
• Set of easy-to-use controls

Cons

• Slightly muddy sound profile
• No active noise cancelation
• Charging design is cumbersome

If you love listening to music while running but don’t want to spend a lot, the Otium U18s are a great value thanks to their battery life, secure fit, and IPX7 waterproof rating. They feature an ear hook-based design similar to that of the JBL Endurance Peak 3 and the Powerbeats Pro, with the inclusion of a connective neckband that makes them easy to hang around your neck when not in use and keeps them from getting separated. The U18’s sound profile is a bit muddy and leaves something to be desired, and because they don’t come with any EQ-enabled companion apps you’ll need to explore other options to sculpt their sound. But if you just need a beat to beat your personal best, these are a budget way to get that.

As a set of budget headphones, the Otium U18s are fairly stripped down and lack conveniences like active noise cancelation, wireless charging, and ambient modes. They do have a set of onboard controls, including an on-ear button and a rocker switch, both of which are intuitive and easy to use, but charging the headphones is a little more difficult and involves opening a small, tight-fitting door for access to a micro USB port. Still, if you’re not picky about sound quality or noise canceling, the runner-friendly fit of the U18s makes them worth a look.

What to consider when buying the best running headphones

Most of the best headphones should avoid even a hint of moisture. Heck, even some of the best Bluetooth earbuds might not be suited for more than a brisk stroll. That’s why we’ve put together these things to look at before adding something to your cart:

Do you run in a city environment?

Running in a city environment near bikes, cars, and other forms of traffic requires a high level of situational awareness to ensure you stay out of harm’s way. The best-running headphones for urban environments and crowded places include the Sony LinkBuds, which feature a snug earbud design, and the SHOKZ OpenEars Pro, a bone-conduction design that leaves your ears completely open. 

How important is sound quality to you?

If you fancy yourself an audiophile, go for running headphones with a well-rounded sound profile like the Apple Beats Fit Pro, which have extended low-end response and present highs. Some running headphones also allow you to customize their EQ via smartphone apps, including the JBL Endurance Peak 3 and Ultimate Ears FITS.

Do you need waterproof running headphones?

If you frequently run in moist environments or sweat a lot, picking a pair of running headphones with some measure of waterproofing is essential. All the best running headphones are in some way splash/sweat-resistant, but if you need maximum protection, models such as the JBL Endurance Peak 3 and Jabra Elite 7 Active are some of the best waterproof options we’ve tested.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best running headphones

• Best overall: Apple Beats Fit Pro
• Best bone-conduction: SHOKZ OpenRun Pro
• Most comfortable: Ultimate Ears FITS
• Best over-ear: Treblab Z2
• Best for city runs: Sony LinkBuds
• Best battery life: JBL Endurance Peak 3
• Best budget: Otium U18 Earbuds

For most runners, the easy-to-use Apple Beats Fit Pro are the best headphones, thanks to their well-rounded sound profile, ANC capabilities, and secure fit. Runners in city areas who want to maximize their situational awareness should consider the in-ear Sony LinkBuds or the SHOKZ OpenEars Pro. In contrast, runners interested in the most comfortable fit should look at the in-ear Ultimate Ears FITS or the over-ear Treblab Z2. For more intense workouts, the long battery life, secure fit, and high resistance to water and dust of the JBL Endurance Peak 3 make them a worthy contender. If you’re shopping for running headphones on a budget, it’s hard to beat the sub-$30 Otium U18 Earbuds, which feature a secure ear hook design and 15 hours of single-charge battery life. Now get those feet pounding on the pavement and run off into the sunset, your favorite running tunes pumping in your ears.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best running headphones for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Shokz OpenRun Pro		SEE IT	Impressive battery life, water resistance, and reliable connectivity make these the best pair of bone-conduction headphones around.
Best for kids		N/0 Kids Bone Conduction Headphones		SEE IT	Give your kids a pair of headphones that will provide safe entertainment while they stay active.
Best waterproof		Shokz OpenSwim		SEE IT	A pair of open-ear headphones that’s waterproof, the OpenSwim suit doing laps in the pool swimmingly.

If you’ve got a bone to pick with the way traditional audio devices disconnect you from the world, there is another option: bone-conduction headphones. Headphones, in general, can play many valuable roles. No (or some) bones about it: they let you jam out to music, dive into podcasts, or dial into phone calls while blocking out environmental noise. This can help you concentrate on tasks, but there are some circumstances when being cut off from what’s around you isn’t optimal. The best bone-conduction headphones let you enjoy all your favorite listening experiences with your ear canal exposed so that you can drive, walk, run, bike, swim, etc.—all while remaining completely aware of your surroundings.

• Best overall: Shokz OpenRun Pro
• Best waterproof: Shokz OpenSwim
• Best for calls: Shokz OpenComm
• Best for multitasking: HAYLOU PurFree Bone Conduction Headphones
• Best for kids: N/0 Kids Bone Conduction Headphones
• Best budget: Guudsoud Lite Bone Conduction Headphones

How we chose the best bone-conduction headphones

Bone-conduction headphones are still a relatively new product. But—after consulting academic articles, peer recommendations, real-world user impressions, and our own first-hand tests—we have identified certain models that stand out. Following extensive research, we selected pairs that address the specific needs of athletics, work environments, and age. We chose units that were easy to use, incorporated the features we love about traditional headphones, and prioritized sound quality.

The best bone-conduction headphones: Reviews & Recommendations

Sitting right outside the ear on the jaw, bone-conduction headphones are a different physical and acoustic experience than most people are used to. But different can be good. Here are our picks for the best bone-conduction headphones to help keep you in the hear and now.

Best overall: Shokz OpenRun Pro

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Why it made the cut: Shokz is dedicated to producing top-tier bone-conducting headphones, and the OpenRun Pro is the company’s most advanced model, employing ninth-generation technology to boost sound quality.

Specs

• Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz
• Battery life: 10 hours
• Charge time: 1 hour
• Water resistance: IP55
• Microphone: Dual noise-canceling

Pros

• Good sound quality
• Impressive battery life and quick charging
• Sweat-resistant for intense exercise

Cons

• Hard to replace charging cable
• Audio quality can’t hold up against traditional headphones

Without a doubt, Shokz has cornered the bone-conduction headphone market. The company produces thoughtfully engineered, top-quality products, creating an audio experience to complement the activities you enjoy. The OpenRun Pro is an excellent pair of bone-conduction headphones. They are ideal for just about any situation but are great headphones for running. Available in four colors and two band sizes, the OpenRun Pro fits gently, yet securely, around the back of the head, looping around the ears and resting against the temples.

The headphones employ patented ninth-generation bone-conduction technology. They are equipped with Bluetooth 5.1 (using the SBC codec) and feature PremiumPitch 2.0 signal processing, which prevents bleed, minimizes distortion, and produces a more dynamic bass with minimal vibrations. The battery lasts 10 hours, and you can get a full charge in an hour. Or, with a quick five-minute charge, you’ll get up to 1.5 hours of battery life. Each pair comes with a proprietary magnetic USB charging cable, which easily snaps onto the charging contacts on the headphones.

A dual noise-canceling mic will let you make clear calls. An IP55 rating means this pair can withstand dirt, dust, and sweat. A built-in moisture detector will let you know when it’s getting wet. Keep in mind that while the OpenRun Pro is water-resistant, it’s not designed to be fully submerged in the pool, and you won’t want to run in too heavy of rain with it either. If you would prefer more water resistance, the OpenRun offers many of the same features with an IP67 rating.

Best waterproof: Shokz OpenSwim

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Why it made the cut: The OpenSwim have an IP68 rating, which means they can be fully submerged in water for up to two hours; you can swim with them without making terrible sacrifices regarding audio quality.

Specs:

• Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz 
• Battery life: 8 hours
• Charge time: 2 hours
• Water resistance: IP68
• Microphone: None

Pros

• Waterproof
• Ample storage for songs and audiobooks
• Comfortably fits under swim cap

Cons

• Single-purpose headphones
• No Bluetooth connection
• Limited color options

Shokz designed the OpenSwim specifically to deliver your favorite music, audiobooks, and podcasts while swimming. These headphones feature an IP68 rating, fit comfortably under a swim cap, and you can swim as deep as 2 meters for up to two hours at a time. Unfortunately, they are not Bluetooth compatible. But they can store up to 1,200 songs (4 GB) of various file types, including MP3, WAV, AAC, and FLAC. The OpenSwim headphones feature the same command controls and PremiumPitch 2.0 technology as other Shokz open-ear headphones. So, while you won’t be able to stream, you can listen to your favorites with solid, satisfying sound quality. They even come with a noseclip and earplugs.

Best for calls: Shokz OpenComm2 UC

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Why it made the cut: A DSP noise-canceling microphone means the OpenComm2 headphones are able to isolate your voice while talking, drowning out any surrounding din but keeping you in tune with your environment.

Specs

• Frequency response: 20Hz-20KHz
• Battery life: 16 hours of talk time // 8 hours of listening time
• Charge time: 1 hour
• Water resistance: IP55
• Microphone: DSP noise-canceling boom microphone

Pros

• Comfortable for long wear
• Extended battery life for long phone calls
• Boom microphone enhances call quality

Cons

• Shape is hard to store
• Some sound bleed might limit private conversations

The OpenComm2 UC headphones prioritize clear communication using an adjustable DSP boom microphone. The boom mic suppresses background noise and highlights your voice when positioned near your mouth. Though the person on the other end of the line won’t pick up on your environment’s sounds, the open-ear headphones will ensure you can hear the person talking on the phone and the one right in front of you. The OpenComm2 are Zoom Certified, offering seamless software integration and Zoom controls on the dedicated headset buttons. They are a great pair of headphones for work, as a result.

The OpenComm2 system lets you bypass your car’s choppy stereo if you have to make a call on the road without cutting yourself off from the sound of traffic. You can also stay on the call when you’re at a job site or keep connected during a busy commute, all without losing situational awareness. You can get up to 16 hours of talk time or eight hours of listening time, and with Quick Charge, you’ll get a replenished two hours of battery life in just five minutes.

Best for multitasking: HAYLOU PurFree Bone Conduction Headphones

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Why it made the cut: These waterproof, sweatproof headphones will hold up as you pump iron or just rearrange your living room.

Specs

• Frequency response: Unknown
• Battery life: 8 hours
• Charge time: 10-minute quick charge
• Water resistance: IP67
• Microphone: Built-in wireless

Pros

• IP67 rated
• High sound quality
• Long battery life

Cons

• Proprietary charger

Using your sweaty hands to remove your headphones because someone is asking to use the treadmill is common in the gym. So is taking your earbuds out or headphones off repeatedly while roommates/family/friends try to talk to you as you get chores done. Keep your headphones on while keeping your ears open with these sport-friendly HAYLOU PurFree Bone Conduction Headphones. They are IP67 rated, meaning sweat and water won’t get in the way of completing your reps—whether lifting weights or emptying the washer.

An eight-hour battery life gives you all-day tunes power, and 10-minute quick charging gives you two hours of power. The sound quality is superb compared to other bone-conduction headphones, with deep bass and a solid range of highs and lows thanks to a strong Bluetooth 5.2 connection. A noise-canceling microphone means you can take calls without the background bleeding into your conversation. However, a proprietary charger means you’ll be tuneless if you lose power on the go, so prep before you step.

Best for kids: N/0 Kids Bone Conduction Headphones

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Why it made the cut: These headphones include a volume limit of 85 decibels, and the open-ear design means your child will always be able to hear the world around them and when you call for them.

Specs

• Frequency response: Unknown
• Battery life: 8 hours
• Charge time: 1-hour quick charge
• Water resistance: IP54
• Microphone: Built-in wireless

Pros

• Lightweight
• Volume limiter keeps kids’ hearing safe
• Adjustable band can grow with your child

Cons

• Soundbeaming technology is difficult to grasp
• Susceptible to water damage
• No noise cancellation means they’re not great for travel

These open-ear headphones aren’t exactly the same as bone-conduction headphones, but the form factor and effect are similar. With soundbeaming speakers resting outside the ear on the cheekbones, these headphones ensure your active child can stay alert to their surroundings even when listening to their favorite songs. The adjustable band is suitable for children ages 4 to 15. With a volume limit of 85 decibels, these headphones go above and beyond to address any concerns you might have for their awareness or hearing. N/0 equipped these headphones with Bluetooth 5.0, eight hours of battery, and an automatic sensor to control playback. An IP54 rating means you won’t have to worry about a few spills or drops in the dirt. Whether skateboarding, biking, or just running around the backyard, your kids can enjoy music and mobility safely.

Best budget: Guudsoud Lite Bone Conduction Headphones

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Why it made the cut: If bone conduction is new to you, you might not be ready to shell out $100 or more. The Guudsoud headphones produce satisfying sound quality and suitable specs in a great intro pair.

Specs

• Frequency response: Unknown
• Battery life: 6-10 hours
• Charge time: 2 hours
• Water resistance: IP54
• Microphone: Built-in wireless

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Useful, responsive multifunction button
• Sound quality is good for the price point

Cons

• Flimsy build
• Sound quality could be improved
• Battery life is just okay

If you want to try out bone conduction but are not ready to invest in a high-end pair, this cheap model from Guudsoud might be right for you. Available for less than $40, they are equipped with Bluetooth 5.0, a built-in microphone, multifunction buttons, and an adjustable band for comfort. The battery can last up to 10 hours, and a 15-minute quick charge provides one hour of playback. Each pair comes with a USB charging cable and a pair of earplugs so you can create custom noise cancellation.

What to consider when buying the best bone-conduction headphones

If your mom always warns you not to listen to your headphones while walking home at night, or you need to hear the traffic behind you as you pedal to work, try out the best bone-conduction headphones. To determine which pair will work best for your needs, you’ll want to consider where and when you’ll be using them the most. You’ll also want to ensure you understand how they work, especially if this is your first pair of bone-conduction headphones.

First of all, what is bone conduction, and how does it work?

Bone-conduction headphones allow you to experience audio sans any direct interaction with your ear canal or eardrum. While this may sound like some new-fangled, tech-heavy sorcery, there is evidence that bone conduction has been around for centuries. It is rumored that Beethoven relied on bone conduction to compose music after losing his hearing by attaching a metal rod to his piano and biting down on it as he played. But how does it work? 

Typically, sound waves travel through the air and are funneled through the ear canal to the eardrums. They are then decoded into vibrations and sent to the inner ear (or cochlea), which is connected to the auditory nerve. When the vibrations hit the inner ear fluid, tiny hair cells start to convulse, creating electrical pulses that travel up the auditory nerve to the brain. This process is called air conduction. Bone conduction completely avoids the eardrum, which is what’s targeted by the miniature speaker in traditional earbuds, and relies on a transducer of another sort to convert sound waves into vibrations and send those through the facial bones to be received by the inner ear. Essentially, the vibrations the cochlea receives are the same no matter how you receive them. They are simply sent via a different pathway. 

This concept has even been used in reverse. The Sony WF-1000XM4 earphones include a bone-conduction sensor that picks up the vibrations from your voice during calls to help enable clearer speech without picking up ambient sound.

Who should use bone-conduction headphones?

Medically, bone-conduction headphones benefit those experiencing conductive hearing loss, a condition that directly affects the transmission of sound through the eardrums. Conductive hearing loss is just one way the auditory system can be disrupted, so bone-conduction headphones won’t work for everyone with hearing difficulties. 

Bone-conduction headphones are also helpful for those who need to maintain situational awareness while they enjoy their music. These headphones provide an additional layer of safety for bikers, hikers, drivers, or anyone who needs to be aware of their surroundings. Active in dense urban environments? Bone conduction makes for great running headphones. Bone-conduction headphones are also particularly great for swimmers. Air conduction is heavily suppressed when we are underwater, but the vibrations created by bone conduction can still be transmitted. That means a pair of bone-conduction headphones with an Ingress Protection rating of IP68 (aka waterproof) can keep you connected to your workout playlist lap after lap. 

Now, bone conduction won’t make your entire face shake, rattle, and roll, so you don’t need to worry about experiencing discomfort while you listen. In fact, many report that these headphones are secure, comfortable, and easy to wear. However, if you are sensitive to pressure, there is a chance that you may experience dizziness or headaches after a long stretch of listening.

How’s the sound quality?

If you’re an audiophile searching for your next pair of headphones, chances are bone conduction isn’t going to be what you’re looking for. That being said, the overall audio quality of these headsets can certainly get you through a tough training session or walk to work. At high volumes, audio can start to distort or get crunchy and an expansive mix isn’t really possible. However, with a quality model, you will still get to experience impactful bass. You’ll feel the vibrations instead of highly pressurized waves from over-ear cans. 

Just remember that even the best bone-conduction headphones aren’t meant to fit or even necessarily sound like traditional headphones or earbuds. If you haven’t used bone-conduction headphones before, you might feel inclined to turn up the volume as loud as it can go in an attempt to recreate that natural, passive noise cancellation that every other type of headphone relies on. Remember that nothing is blocking your ear canal, which means that you will purposefully be able to hear your surroundings clearly. Maxing out the volume won’t affect that, but it could lead to hearing loss down the road.

Can bone-conduction headphones use Bluetooth?

There are wireless bone-conduction headphones that use Bluetooth 4.2 and higher to connect to devices such as cellphones and computers. Set up and pairing is no different with Bluetooth bone-conduction headphones than connecting any other type of Bluetooth headphones. Some may even have onboard controls like play, pause, and skip for your streaming services. Other models are more like a portable MP3 player, with the ability to store hours of songs internally. Remember the iPod shuffle? That’s what you’ll be getting. It’s an excellent option for folks who want to jam out to a curated playlist without their phone.

Can you take phone calls with bone-conduction headphones?

Many companies equip their bone-conduction headphones with a microphone so you can answer calls on the go. While the headphones themselves can’t employ any passive or active noise cancellation to enhance your listening experience, some models can use technology to make calls crisp and clear. The headphones with mic use various means to minimize outside sound—like wind, traffic, etc.—ensuring that the person you’re talking to can hear you without interruption. Just remember that bone-conduction headphones are subject to more sound bleed than traditional units, so you’ll want to be conscientious about volume when it comes to private calls.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best bone-conduction headphones

• Best overall: Shokz OpenRun Pro
• Best waterproof: Shokz OpenSwim
• Best for calls: Shokz OpenComm
• Best for multitasking: HAYLOU PurFree Bone Conduction Headphones
• Best for kids: N/0 Kids Bone Conduction Headphones
• Best budget: Guudsoud Lite Bone Conduction Headphones

Chances are you’re either an experienced bone-conduction headphones user or a novice looking to see if these air-conduction alternatives are right for you. Regardless of your familiarity, finding the right pair means homing in on when and where you’ll use them most. Think about your surroundings and consider your priorities regarding sound quality, microphone use, and waterproof rating, then shop accordingly. If you’re accustomed to traditional earphones or over-ear models, get ready to be surprised by the best bone-conduction headphones.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best bone-conduction headphones in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Overall		Pioneer DJ DDJ-800		SEE IT	A controller that combines the look and feel of the club-standard CDJ and DJM gear with added performance features and built-in displays.
Best Standalone System		Denon DJ Prime 4+		SEE IT	The most comprehensive and innovative feature set you can get in a standalone system/DJ controller.
Best Compact Controller		Numark DJ2GO2 Touch		SEE IT	All a digital DJ’s essential needs are contained in this one tiny package.

DJ controllers leverage the processing power and massive storage of laptops—and sometimes mobile devices and cloud services—so that DJs can spin sets from enormous music libraries at a fraction of the cost and hassle of using high-end DJ turntables, mixers, and media players. While DJ controllers cover a wide range of sizes, feature sets, software compatibility, and prices, they generally connect to host devices over USB and include audio outputs for sending your mix to a main set of speakers and your cued music to headphones. Some DJ controllers prefer standalone systems that allow self-contained mixing but can also connect to a computer when you want to see a larger screen and potentially access additional software capabilities. For both complete newbies and old-school turntablists, this handy hardware can unlock a new world of possibilities, making DJing more creative and even more fun. Choosing the right one for you is where that fun begins, so let’s get into the best DJ controllers of 2023.

• Best overall: Pioneer DJ DDJ-800
• Best for scratching: Rane One 
• Best for beginners: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
• Best standalone system: Denon DJ Prime 4+ 
• Best compact controller: Numark DJ2GO2 Touch
• Best budget: Roland DJ-202

How we chose the best DJ controllers

I have been a performing DJ for more than 15 years and have covered DJ gear (such as the Pioneer DJ XDJ-RX3) for DJ Tech Tools, Electronic Musician, Remix, Popular Science, and other outlets. I’ve personally used half of the DJ controllers on this list for public DJ sets, livestreams, or extensive reviews, and the remaining choices are based on thorough research, the feedback of fellow DJs, and other expert reviews. This guide includes the best DJ controllers for a variety of needs, skill levels, and price points. 

The best DJ controllers: Reviews & Recommendations

Finding the perfect DJ controller may not spike your dopamine as much as laying down a perfect set for a hyped crowd, but it should be an enjoyable process. And it’s better to start spinning tracks rather than spin into a spiral of indecision, which is where our list comes in. There are many great options, and unless you want to invest in more than one for different situations, you may end up sacrificing some great features for portability or vice versa. Or you may find the exact controller you want, but it doesn’t work with your preferred software. To make your search easier, here are our picks for the best DJ controllers available this year for many different situations and budgets. 

Best overall: Pioneer DJ DDJ-800 

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Why it made the cut: Gig-ready gear that comes the closest to mimicking the layout and workflow of Pioneer DJ’s club-standard media players and mixers in a 2-channel controller. 

Specs 

• Channels: 2 decks plus mic input channel
• Inputs and Outputs: XLR and RCA stereo Master outputs; balanced ¼-inch stereo Booth output; ¼-inch and 1/8-inch stereo headphone outputs; two stereo RCA phono/line channel inputs; stereo RCA Aux input; one balanced XLR/1/4-inch combo Mic input; one balanced ¼-inch Mic input. 
• Audio Resolution: 24-bit/44.1kHz
• Software Native Compatibility: Pioneer Rekordbox

Pros

• Has the layout and feel of Pioneer DJ’s high-end club gear in a smaller, more affordable package
• Informative on-jog color displays
• Unlocks a performance-ready version of Rekordbox DJ software
• Excellent performance pad modes

Cons 

• High-level Rekordbox functions like DVS and cloud storage/syncing require a subscription

The Pioneer DJ DDJ-800 recreates the layout and features of Pioneer DJ’s professional club-standard CDJ-NXS2 media players and DJM mixers but in a single unit for controlling the company’s Rekordbox software. It also unlocks a performance-ready version of Rekordbox so that you don’t have to pay for a subscription to the software, unless you want to unlock extra features like the DVS (digital vinyl system) Plus Pack, or other subscription levels for music library cloud storage and syncing. The DDJ-800 gives you basically everything from the popular 4-channel DDJ-1000 except in a smaller, 2-channel version that weighs about 1.3kg less and costs about $400 less. 

Color LCD displays in the center of the jog wheels help you see the essential track information without staring at the computer screen, and you can customize them to show what you want to see, including BPM, cue and loop points, and the waveform with playback position. Another small display dedicated to the popular Beat FX from Pioneer’s DJM mixers shows the settings. If you scratch while DJing, the jog wheel’s resistance is also adjustable to your preference. The DDJ-800’s mixer has two stereo phono/line audio inputs, so you can use the controller’s channel faders, trims, and EQs for external turntables and media players, as well as using Rekordbox’s effects on the external sources. 

The 16 performance pads (eight per deck) control several pads modes: Hot Cues, Pad FX, Beat Jump, Sampler, Keyboard Mode, Beat Loop, and Key Shift, which can automatically change the key of the upcoming track to match the master deck or shifts the keys up or down to your liking. With the pad Page function, you access 16 Hot Cues per deck and toggle the pads to control cues 1-8 and 9-16.

Best for scratching: Rane One

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Why it made the cut: A controller that caters to scratch DJs with the dual motorized, vinyl-feel platters and pro-level crossfader on the Rane One. 

Specs 

• Channels: 2 decks plus 2 mic inputs
• Inputs and Outputs: RCA stereo Master output; balanced XLR stereo Main output; balanced XLR stereo Booth output; ¼-inch and 1/8-inch stereo headphone outputs; two stereo RCA phono/line channel inputs; stereo RCA Aux input; two balanced XLR/1/4-inch combo Mic inputs 
• Audio Resolution: 24-bit, 48kHz
• Software Native Compatibility: Serato DJ Pro, Aloriddim Djay Pro AI, VirtualDJ

Pros

• Dual 7-inch motorized turntable-style platters with real vinyl feel
• Pro scratch DJ Mag Four crossfader with tension and contour adjustment
• Two USB ports for seamless transition between two laptops
• 16 multi-function performance pads that support Serato DJ Pro’s Scratch Bank mode 

Cons 

• You must pay a price for this kind of quality
• Serato DJ Pro license not included

Among DJ-focused brands, Rane has carved out a niche as one of the most trusted and beloved names that concentrate on the needs of scratch DJs. The company makes some of the best scratch DJ mixers (such as the Seventy-Two MKII), and now it has laid claim to some of the best DJ controllers for scratching. While you can scratch with most DJ controllers with jog wheels, dedicated scratch DJs most often prefer to use vinyl turntables to scratch, because that’s where they have the most control and the best feel to practice their art form. However, with the Rane One, scratch DJs don’t have to sacrifice much to use a DJ controller. It provides the feel of two turntables with a scratch mixer along with conveniences like a dedicated loop section, track browsing and loading, and eight multi-function performance pads on each deck. The two motorized 7-inch turntable platters have the feel of real vinyl, including vinyl brake speed adjustment, and the buttery smooth, professional scratch DJ Mag Four crossfader equals those of high-end scratch mixers, including tension and contour adjustment. 

Rane One’s mixer section has six FX buttons for calling up effects combinations within the DJ software, and the aluminum FX paddles give scratch DJs the effects control they crave—the ability to lock the effects on or to momentarily toggle the effects on with the paddle down. For the pure feel of a full-size turntable in a DJ controller, Rane also makes the Twelve MKII, which works like a full-size, vertically oriented, 12-inch motorized turntable controller for DVS-enabled Serato DJ Pro, Traktor, and VirtualDJ. However, for scratch DJs who want the best of both the DJ controller and vinyl-manipulation worlds in a single unit that—at about 27 by 14 inches—is much smaller than two turntables and a mixer, nothing beats the Rane One.

Best for beginners: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3

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Why it made the cut: This compact, beginner-friendly DJ controller works in lock-step with Native Instruments software and won’t be obsolete when you progress from beginner status. 

Specs 

• Channels: 2 decks plus mic input
• Inputs and Outputs: Stereo RCA and stereo 1/8-inch main outputs; 1/8-inch stereo headphone output; ¼-inch mic input
• Audio Resolution: 24-bit/44.1kHz or 48kHz (selectable in software)
• Software Native Compatibility: Traktor DJ 2 (free download), Traktor Pro 3 (license included)

Pros

• Approachable feature set with lasting appeal to higher skill levels
• Very high-quality build and audio
• Dedicated USB port for iPad connectivity
• Includes Traktor Pro 3 license

Cons 

• No controls for Traktor Pro’s effects decks
• Smaller than full-size performance pads
• Fewer performance pad modes than many DJ controllers

There are many DJ controllers aimed at beginners. But if your goal is to not remain an entry-level entertainer forever, the Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 lets you start out with a manageable piece of hardware that semi-pro and pro-level DJs will still use when a gig calls for a relatively small DJ controller. Even better, beginners can start out with the free Traktor DJ 2 software (available for Mac, Windows, and iPad), which is very approachable to beginners yet still has the core features you need for credible DJ sets. Traktor DJ 2 is also one of the best DJing apps for iPad and the S2 MK3 includes a dedicated USB port for iDevice connections. When you’re ready to graduate from Traktor DJ 2, you can step up to Traktor Pro 3, which is included with the S2 MK3. Traktor Pro 3 now also has a Pro Plus subscription for added performance features like a drum pattern sequencer, but it’s not necessary to subscribe to use the main Traktor Pro 3 software. 

Aside from its manageable size (about 19.1 by 10.4 inches) and flexible software options, the S2 MK3 puts a decent amount of controls at your fingertips for a small controller. There are 16 total performance pads for triggering saved cue and loop points; multi-purpose touch-sensitive jog wheels for searching waveforms, nudging playback, and scratching; and four Mixer FX on each deck: filter, reverb, delay, and flanger. It even supports four-deck operation in Traktor Pro 3. While the Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3 treats beginners well, it also gives them room to grow into seasoned DJs.

Best standalone system: Denon DJ Prime 4+ 

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Why it made the cut: Compared to other standalone DJ systems, this setup does not hold back any functionality and offers the best touchscreen, connectivity, and overall feature set in its class. 

Specs 

• Channels: 4 decks plus two mic inputs
• Inputs and Outputs: RCA stereo Master output; three balanced XLR stereo outputs; ¼-inch and 1/8-inch stereo headphone outputs; two stereo RCA phono/line channel inputs two stereo RCA line channel inputs; two balanced XLR/1/4-inch combo Mic inputs; four USB media inputs; SD memory card slot 
• Audio Resolution: 24-bit/44.1kHz
• Software Native Compatibility: Serato DJ Pro, VirtualDJ

Pros

• Brilliant 10.1-inch color touchscreen with gesture control
• Plenty of wired and wireless connectivity options
• Built for both standalone and laptop use
• Good value for what’s included

Cons 

• Rather large and unwieldy for transporting

Pioneer DJ standalone DJ systems like the XDJ-RX3 are home-setup mainstays, in part because you can use the same Rekordbox-prepared USB sticks from the standalone system on club gear like the CDJ-3000. However, the Denon DJ Prime 4+ unequivocally packs the most features into its 4-deck frame at similar price to its main competitors (a little over $2,000). On first glance of the Prime 4+, the eye goes immediately to its brilliant 10.1-inch touchscreen, which offers gesture control familiar to mobile device users powered by the system’s multi-core processing. You can play music files without the use of a laptop thanks to four USB inputs and an SD card slot (as well as a built-in 2.5-inch SATA drive bay, if you add a hard drive/SSD), taking advantage of on-board song analysis. Or hook it up to a computer loaded with Serato DJ Pro or VirtualDJ software. The Prime 4+ also has built-in WiFi and an Ethernet port for accessing music from your personal Dropbox collection or from multiple streaming services: Amazon Music Unlimited, Tidal, SoundCloud Go+, Beatport Link, Beatsource Link, and Dropbox (subscriptions required). 

The multi-view touchscreen can clearly show large scrolling waveforms for all four decks at once either horizontally or vertically, allows fast and easy track browsing and loading, lets you create playlists on the fly, and dynamically shows the relevant parameters as you play, such as looping, beat slicing, track roll, and other performance pad modes. 

A generous effects control section on each side includes its own mini displays for showing the parameters of the 26 dynamic internal DJ effects, in addition to the per-channel Sweep FX knobs (combinable with Main FX). There’s an embedded Sampler with 16 pad-triggered sample slots, volume control, and output routing, as well as standalone Stems functionality for real-time vocal and instrument isolation. You also get full hands-on control over the two mic inputs and multiple audio outputs. 

To add visual elements to your DJ sets, the Prime 4+ integrates with SoundSwitch for customized or automated light shows, and Resolume for live visuals and videos. All told, the Prime 4+ impresses like no other standalone DJ system to date. 

Best compact controller: Numark DJ2GO2 Touch

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Why it made the cut: Simple, straightforward, and very small, this controller includes core DJing necessities that can slip easily into a slim laptop case. 

Specs 

• Channels: 2 decks plus mic input
• Inputs and Outputs: 1/8-inch stereo main output; 1/8-inch stereo headphone output
• Audio Resolution: 16-bit/44.1kHz
• Software Native Compatibility: Serato DJ Lite (included), Serato DJ Pro, VirtualDJ, Algoriddim Djay for iOS

Pros

• Extremely compact for easy portability
• Four pad modes
• Touch-sensitive jog wheels allow both scratching and nudging
• Low price

Cons 

• No track EQ controls

For an ultra-compact DJ controller weighing only 12 ounces and measuring 12.4 by 3.4 inches, the Numark DJ2GO2 Touch dishes out a surprising amount of controls and functionality. There are many reasons to have such a tiny DJ controller, including the ability to take a mini-rig almost anywhere to casually play from either a laptop or an iOS device. But the DJ2GO2 Touch can suffice even for more professional mobile DJing or gigs where a larger controller is either impractical or unnecessary. This slim controller connects with an included mini-USB to USB cable and both monitor and headphone outputs. Each mini-deck includes playback controls, headphone cue controls, level, pitch fader, four trigger pads, and a jog wheel. The DJ2GO2 Touch jog wheels have been upgraded from the previous DJ2GO2 controller to be capacitive on the top to enable both scratching and track nudging from the jog wheel’s side. There are even four selectable pad modes: cue triggering, auto-looping, manual looping, and sample triggering. 

When used with the included Serato DJ Lite, you can DJ with streaming music from SoundCloud and Tidal. Track library browsing and deck loading round out the DJ2GO2 Touch to make it a very attractive option either as a starter DJ controller or an alternate second controller for when small size matters.

Best budget: Roland DJ-202

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Why it made the cut: This excellent 2-channel DJ controller stands out for its included Serato DJ Pro license for U.S. customers and some unique music production-oriented features. 

Specs 

• Channels: 2 decks plus mic input
• Inputs and Outputs: Stereo RCA main output; 1/4-inch stereo headphone output; ¼-inch mic input; MIDI output
• Audio Resolution: 24-bit/48kHz
• Software Native Compatibility: Serato DJ Lite, Serato DJ Pro (license for US customers only)

Pros

• Solid all-around 2-channel DJ controller with 4-deck support in Serato software
• Includes Serato DJ Pro license for US customers
• Built-in drum machine and MIDI out for syncing external gear

Cons 

• May take some leg work to obtain the Serato DJ Pro upgrade

While the Roland DJ-202 measures up as a super-solid 2-channel controller for Serato software, it’s not the least expensive option out there. What makes it an irresistible prospect for serious DJs on a budget is its inclusion of an upgrade to Serato DJ Pro (for U.S. customers only). You may have to jump through some hoops with customer service to get the Serato DJ Pro license, but DJ-202 buyers are still getting it in 2023. 

Either way, the DJ-202 is packed with features for its size. Two effects sections give you full control over Serato’s internal audio effects, and the mic input has onboard reverb and echo. Its eight performance pads per side support eight pad modes, including one that lets you use the 16 total pads together to sequence drum beats using the famous sounds of Roland’s classic drum machines: the TR-909, TR-808, TR-707, and TR-606. A MIDI output also lets you sync the DJ-202 tempo from the software to external MIDI gear like samplers, synthesizers, or drum machines—a rarity for a DJ controller. 

Things to consider before buying the best DJ controllers

Some specialty DJ controllers do not include audio interfaces that let you monitor the cue mix in your headphones and send audio out to the main speakers. This guide only spotlights DJ controllers that include audio interfaces and also access to some level of mixing software, so you can get started DJing right away. The audio capabilities of the controllers on this list vary. Some of them have basic audio connections, so you can only plug in your headphones and one set of main monitors. Others have much more, including audio inputs for turntables and DJ media players, separate booth monitor outputs, and microphone inputs. 

DJ software

Many DJs prefer to decide which DJ software they want to use before picking their DJ controller, as this narrows down DJ controllers to the ones that support the software out of the box. Some DJ software, like Virtual DJ and Algoriddim DJ, supports many controllers with mappings that the software developers have made, but you won’t find many DJ controllers made specifically for those programs. Other DJ software, like Pioneer DJ Rekordbox and Native Instruments Traktor Pro, has a limited number of natively support DJ controllers made by the same maker of the software. Serato DJ has the largest selection of third-party DJ controllers that are made specifically for that software. Traktor Pro and some other DJ software options also have MIDI mapping built-in, so any DJ controller could be made to work with them. However, most DJs do not want to go through the trouble of creating their own MIDI mapping, and the user-made mappings available online are hit or miss.

Size

For the most part, the more mixer channels and features (such as FX controls, displays, and performance pads) that a DJ controller has, the larger its footprint. They can be made smaller by making the jog wheels, performance pads, pitch faders, or other elements more compact but, eventually, DJ controllers that are more and more streamlined will have to sacrifice some features. The size of the controller could matter for a multitude of reasons. If you’ll be using it to perform, your venue may be limited in the amount of space it has for your controller, or you may not want to carry something beyond a certain size. There are some very large, heavy 4-channel DJ controllers and standalone DJ systems/controllers that are a joy to mix on but can be much tougher to take out for shows. Some DJs only use them for at-home practice and streaming.

Mixer channels and features

The number of mixer channels—two or four—distinguishes many DJ controllers. Certainly, many high-end two-channel DJ controllers exist but, conversely, there are not many entry-level controllers with four channels. Most four-channel controllers and some two-channel controllers have extra audio inputs to connect turntables and DJ media players to the controller’s mixer channels, while others may only have four channels for playing four decks of internal audio from the DJ software. Even if you do not plan on using more than two decks while DJing, it can be handy to have a four-deck controller because you can change the MIDI function of the extra channel-strip controls to assign them to other functions in the software that do not have dedicated hardware controls, like effects manipulation, turning quantization on/off, etc. 

Control features

DJ controllers also vary significantly in how many/what type of features they include. If they are made for scratch DJs, for example, they will probably have a professional crossfader, like a Magvel, made for smooth and accurate precision over a long life of extended use. They will also probably have larger jog wheels made to better simulate the response of turntables, which may include motorized platters and a vinyl piece on top to respond like a record. On the other hand, occasional controllers, like the now-discontinued Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S8, don’t have jog wheels at all, and others have much smaller jog wheels to save space. 

Many other control features may play into your choice of DJ controller, like having performance pads and different pad modes, the availability and size of control sections for effect modules and looping, built-in displays, and features unique to specific controllers, like the drum machine abilities of the Roland DJ controllers. Knowing the kinds of controls available and the ones most important to you can help you make your decision, but remember that it can be tricky to find a DJ controller with the exact controls you want, at the right size, that works with the software you want, all within your acceptable price range. 

Price

DJ controllers range widely in price from under $100 for some barebones yet highly portable gear to well over $2,000 for some of the largest, most deluxe pro controllers, some of which may also be standalone systems you can use without a laptop. While I recommend staying within your means, it’s also worth it to try to decide on a controller you really vibe with rather than compromising to save a few bucks. Quality DJing rests more on your musical choices and mixing skills than on the gear you use, but you should try to be as happy as you can be with your DJ controller. Frustration with your DJ gear can distract you from putting together a great DJ set. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best DJ controllers

• Best overall: Pioneer DJ DDJ-800
• Best for scratching: Rane One 
• Best for beginners: Native Instruments Traktor Kontrol S2 MK3
• Best standalone system: Denon DJ Prime 4+ 
• Best compact controller: Numark DJ2GO2 Touch
• Best budget: Roland DJ-202

Several key factors play into your decision on the best DJ controller to buy: software compatibility, size, price, number of mixer channels, and the availability of performance features like pad modes and effects sections. It can be a challenge to find one that fits the exact profile you want but parse through our picks, and you will soon be equipped with the perfect DJ booth companion.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best DJ controllers in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		YAMAHA YPT270 61-Key Portable Keyboard		SEE IT	This feature-rich keyboard packs plenty of sounds, accompaniment tracks, and built-in lessons that can all be accessed via its LCD panel.
Best 88-key		Alesis Recital		SEE IT	Adjustable touch-sensitive keys, battery-powered operation, and a USB output make the Alesis Recital a flexible option for beginners and pros alike.
Best weighted		Donner SE-1		SEE IT	The SE-1 combines a stylish, streamlined wooden frame with three pedals along with 88 fully weighted keys to make a perfect addition to any living room.

If you’re looking to start playing piano and don’t have the budget or space for the real deal, beginner keyboards can deliver everything you need to tackle the basics and help you build your skills. Some designs feature built-in learning tools, lessons, and play-along tracks. Most include banks of sounds for added versatility and easy musical experimentation. We’ve looked at some of the best beginner keyboards on the market and made recommendations based on their unique feature sets and our key considerations.

• Best overall: YAMAHA YPT270 61-Key Portable Keyboard
• Best 88-key: Alesis Recital
• Best MIDI: Novation Launchkey Mini
• Best weighted: Donner SE-1 88
• Best compact: Casio Casiotone CT-S500
• Best budget: Casio SA-81

How we chose the best beginner keyboards

Shopping for the best beginner keyboard for your needs doesn’t have to be a mystery, but there are a few key factors to remember when purchasing. Here are some of the details we combined with our first-hand experience and peer recommendations when compiling this list:

Features. Whenever possible, we selected beginner keyboards that come with dedicated lesson and coaching functions to help users hone their skills and grow accustomed to playing piano. The picks that don’t include lesson functionality made the list due to their ability to emulate the feel and sound of a real piano, which is an incredibly helpful factor for honing precise skills.

Price and value. Keyboards come in a wide range of prices—stretching into the multiple thousands. We built this list with keyboards that are priced in a reasonable and accessible price bracket to ensure that users get the most value out of their purchase.

Brand and reputation. Each of these beginner keyboards is manufactured by reputable and longstanding brands with extensive experience in the musical instrument market. Going with an established manufacturer typically ensures that years of research and development support a product’s design. 

The best beginner keyboards: Reviews & Recommendations

Thanks to its straightforward playing mechanics, repeating layout, and massive range spanning seven octaves, the piano is one of the most unique and immediately rewarding instruments to learn. Whether you’re a newcomer to music or you’re a musician looking to branch out and expand your skillset, a piano’s highly visual and intuitive design offers a foundational reference point that’s directly applicable to other areas of music. The beginner keyboards below will help you get started on our piano journey, wherever it takes you.

Best overall: YAMAHA YPT270 61-Key Portable Keyboard

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Why it made the cut: This lightweight 61-key keyboard is a feature-rich learning tool that hosts an easy-to-use lesson system and an auxiliary input for jamming along to your favorite songs.

Specs

• Number of keys: 61
• Number of sounds: 401 voices, 143 styles
• Lessons included: Yes, 3 lesson modes
• Touch-sensitive: No
• Dimensions: 12.48 x 37.01 x 4.09 inches
• Weight: 12.4 pounds

Pros

• Intuitive interface and built-in lessons with a visual component
• Includes hundreds of accompaniment and song tracks
• Compatible with auxiliary audio equipment for customizing practice

Cons

• Keys aren’t sensitive to varying touch force
• Sounds aren’t as realistic or dynamic as professional models

The YPT270 is a relatively compact portable keyboard from Yamaha that’s designed with beginners in mind. It features an LCD display and a whopping 401 built-in instrument voices. Plus, three lesson programs guide users from learning proper technique to memorizing basic melodies and chords. Its interface is very open-ended and allows users to harness the keyboard’s features for their own learning style, making it a great basic keyboard for becoming acquainted with the layout and feel of a piano.

Because the YPT270 is the best beginner keyboard, it lacks features that might appeal to intermediate-level players, like touch-sensitive keys and realistic sounds. It’s a great tool for basic learning and for creative experimentation, but if you aim to become accustomed to the feeling and sound of a real piano, a keyboard with some form of weighted and touch-sensitive keys like the Alesis Recital may be a better choice.

Best 88-key: Alesis Recital

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Why it made the cut: The Alesis Recital offers a robust emulation of the piano-playing experience thanks to its five premium voices and 88 touch-adjustable keys.

Specs

• Number of keys: 25
• Number of sounds: 5
• Lessons included: Yes, 60 lessons
• Touch-sensitive: Yes
• Dimensions: 11.54 x 50.51 x 3.58 inches
• Weight: 17 pounds

Pros

• Offers mobile operation using six D batteries
• Toggle between standard, lesson, and two-hand split modes
• Packs bonus MIDI connectivity via USB

Cons

• Full-size 88-key design may be too bulky for small spaces
• Robust customization options are hard to access

Many beginner keyboards are scaled down to make them easier to store and play. But if you want to grow accustomed to the size and feel of a standard piano, an 88-key keyboard is the best way to get acquainted without committing to an actual acoustic piano. The Alesis Recital is the best 88-key keyboard for beginners, thanks to its true-size keys, premium sound banks, and user-adjustable key tension. All of these features aim to offer a playing experience as close as possible to that of a standard piano.

Beginning pianists will appreciate the Recital’s ability to operate using six D batteries for easy mobility and operation in spaces without wall power. It also packs three distinct operation modes. That includes a lesson mode that splits the keyboard into two identical zones for working alongside a piano teacher. As a bonus, users can connect the Recital to a computer via USB and use it to send MIDI information like a dedicated MIDI controller.

As an 88-key keyboard, the Recital measures 50 inches in length, which may be too large for some spaces. One other drawback to the Recital’s design is its control interface, which allows access to all of its lesson features but isn’t super intuitive to use.

Best MIDI: Novation Launchkey Mini

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Why it made the cut: As the best MIDI keyboard for beginners, it includes beginner versions of Pro Tools and Ableton Live, making it a user-friendly tool for entry-level producers and beatmakers.

Specs

• Number of keys: 25
• Number of sounds: N/A
• Lessons included: N/A
• Touch-sensitive: Yes
• Dimensions: 1.61 x 6.77 x 12.99 inches
• Weight: 1 pound

Pros

• USB bus-powered for portability
• One-touch chord mode, arpeggiator, and more
• Velocity-sensitive keys and pads capture nuance of every performance

Cons

• Rich feature set brings learning curve to advanced configuration
• No MIDI cable included

Unlike standard beginner keyboards, MIDI keyboards generally lack lesson modes and learning tools. Its primary use is for beat-making and virtual instruments within digital audio workstations (DAWs) and other music production software. The best MIDI keyboard for beginners should be easy and intuitive to use, offer plug-and-play functionality, and pack a host of flexible tools like sampler pads, programmable knobs, and transport controls. The Launchkey Mini from Novation includes all of these beginner-friendly functions. It even packs them into a compact 25-key form that’s entirely powered via USB, which means that it requires no extra equipment or adapters apart from a computer to function.

Other unique features of the Launchkey Mini include a dedicated arpeggiator mode for creating lush textures and unique patterns, an automatic one-touch chord mode for quick recording of musical ideas, and a panel of 16 velocity-sensitive pads for precise beat-making. Much of these features are easy to access and use right out of the box. But the Launchkey Mini also offers users the ability to tweak and customize an abundance of other advanced settings. This makes it a great all-around choice for beginners and professional producers alike, but accessing the keyboard’s advanced features requires a bit of arcane maneuvering due to its dense, compact design.

MIDI keyboards are slightly different from standard keyboards in that they’re meant to control sounds within a separate unit. Because of this, they don’t include any sounds of their own. If you’re a beginner pianist looking for an all-in-one learning solution, a MIDI keyboard is probably not the best first choice. However, if you’re looking to get involved in DAW-based music production or synthesis, the Launchkey Mini sports one of the best feature sets for budding producers.

Best weighted: Donner SE-1 88

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Why it made the cut: The SE-1 is a stylish and affordable fully weighted 88-key keyboard that will fit right in with any living room.

Specs

• Number of keys: 88
• Number of sounds: 200 tones, 128 polyphony, 100 rhythms, 60 demo sounds
• Lessons included: N/A
• Touch-sensitive: Yes
• Dimensions: 12.9 x 51.9 x 35 inches
• Weight: 23 pounds without stand, 64.9 pounds with stand

Pros

• Three heavy-duty pedals offer realistic feel and response
• Includes wooden furniture stand for easy blending with decor
• USB port sends MIDI information

Cons

• Larger and heavier than other beginner keyboards
• No dedicated lesson mode

As the best weighted keyboard for beginners, the Donner SE-1 offers an accurate piano-playing experience in a stylish and understated design. Despite this, it comes without the cost and bulk commonly associated with acoustic pianos, making it a good choice for use in homes of beginners and professionals alike. It features three zinc alloy pedals that emulate the sustain, dampening, and sostenuto functionality of standard piano pedals. And it includes a sturdy black wooden stand for an elegant finish. Apart from hosting 200 different tones, fully weighted keys, and an onboard recording function, the SE-1 also includes a USB port for sending MIDI information. It’s a surprisingly flexible unit that holds up in a variety of musical scenarios.

Because of its furniture-style design, the SE-1 digital piano is rather bulky and heavy compared to the other beginner keyboards on this list. This is technically one of its most unique traits, but the Alesis Recital (above) will better serve users who require 88 keys in a portable form factor. This keyboard also lacks a dedicated lesson mode, but the Bluetooth support allows you to use app lesson plans. Still, its metronome and recording functions are helpful learning tools—they just require some user control.

Best compact: Casio Casiotone CT-S500

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Why it made the cut: This piano is easy to use and grows with the player as they get more experience.

Specs

• Number of keys: 61
• Number of sounds: 800 tones, 243 rhythms
• Lessons included: No (must use Casio’s separate practice app to unlock lessons)
• Touch-sensitive: Yes
• Dimensions: 38.82 x 12.09 x 6.38 inches
• Weight: 14.85 pounds

Pros

• Plenty of tones to use
• Touch-sensitive
• Headphone output for silent playing

Cons

• No felt strip at key pivots to keep out dust

Don’t let this piano’s size fool you. It packs quite a powerful punch with 800 total sounds and lots of controls for tone adjustment. And the piano can play dynamics better than its counterparts, thanks to Active DSP. Multiple line-out jacks allow you to connect a PA or other gear. You can even use the CT-S500 as a Bluetooth speaker. The sound it produces exceeds its size thanks to built-in speakers designed around Casio’s Horizontal Bass-Reflex System. A strap pin enables you to play without a keyboard stand.

The tone selection includes a back catalog of classic Casio sounds pulled from the company’s massive collection of older devices. It spans everything from cheesy ’80s effects to more professional sounds. Once you pick a specific sound, you can assign different parameters to four onboard knobs and adjust them in real-time during a performance. It’s a simple and quick way to control popular effects like distortion and wah.

If you’re feeling particularly ambitious, you can split the keyboard to get two sounds at the same time, each of which you can customize with the built-in knobs. A built-in LCD display provides real-time info but also allows you to save sound, effect, and rhythm presets that are easy to find later.

Best budget: Casio SA-81

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Why it made the cut: The SA-81 is portable and affordable, making it a great learning tool for kids and a fun creative tool for players of every age and level.

Specs

• Number of keys: 44
• Number of sounds: 100 sounds, 50 rhythms, 10 songs
• Lessons included: No
• Touch-sensitive: No
• Dimensions: 23.78 x 8.31 x 2.24 inches
• Weight: 3.08 pounds

Pros

• Portable and kid-friendly design
• Built-in drum pads with 50 rhythms and 100 unique tones
• Built-in speakers and headphone output
• Metronome, tuning options, and transpose features

Cons

• Limited to eight simultaneous notes
• Toy-like appearance, build quality, and sounds

The Casio SA-81 sits somewhere between the best budget beginner keyboard and a children’s toy, packing 100 fun sounds, five drum pads, 50 rhythm tracks, and a pedigree from a longstanding industry leader in keyboard design. It sports a compact 44-key design that functions using a separately sold AC adapter or six AA batteries (we recommend rechargeables), making it a good practice and songwriting tool for taking on the road. It’s also not nearly as bulky as other more expensive beginner keyboards, which makes it an easy addition to small spaces and homes.

Because it’s a compact budget keyboard, the SA-81 doesn’t match the size specifications or sound capabilities of traditional pianos by any stretch. It features a toy-like appearance and construction, and its sounds are strictly for fun. This may put a damper on a new keyboardist’s ability to excel at and connect with the instrument at large. Still, its low price and user-friendly interface make it a fantastic choice for cultivating musical interest and acquaintance in young children, as well as a great option for older players who want a reasonably priced secondary keyboard for fleshing out ideas or techniques.

Things to consider before buying the best beginner keyboards

Keyboards for beginners offer a wide array of features and qualities. It can be challenging to sort through the buzz to figure out what actually matters when selecting a keyboard. Below, you’ll find some of the key things to pay attention to when narrowing down your choices and finding the best option for your needs.

How accurately do you want your keyboard to emulate the sound and feel of a piano?

When it comes to its design and construction, the piano is a notoriously complex instrument that contains hundreds of strings and creates plenty of complex overtones. Many keyboards aim to model this sound accurately, but not all beginner keyboards are equipped with high-quality sounds or keybeds with realistic resistance and feel.

If you’re looking for a beginner keyboard that’s great at emulating the sound and feel of a traditional piano, you’ll want to pay attention to a keyboard’s action. Action refers to how hard or easy it is to press a key in order to produce a note. The keys on real pianos are weighted, so a weighted keyboard will give you a similar feel to traditional pianos. This does make the keys hard to press, naturally. As a result, it may not be suited for little hands or those wanting keys that are easier to press.

Your keyboard sound will largely be determined by the number and quality of its voices. For a classic sound, focus on a keyboard or electric piano with a few high-quality voice options as opposed to a large number of sounds. If you want more flexibility to cover a wider range of music styles, a keyboard with a wide array of voices and sounds will be best.

How many keys do you need?

Standard keyboards feature 88 keys, though they also come in a range of other key numbers. If you live in a small space, want a portable device, or just don’t want a big piano, a lower number of keys will result in a smaller keyboard. However, the fewer keys you have, the fewer octaves you’ll have access to as well. That may be limiting, especially as you learn. We suggest a minimum of 49 keys—which provide four octaves. This will allow you to easily play with two hands and explore plenty of octaves as you get started. If you want more room to grow, however, go with a higher number of keys.

Do you need portability?

If you want to pack your beginner keyboard for mobile play and practice, battery functionality is a must-have feature. Likewise, a smaller footprint and lightweight design will also be essential factors for most.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best beginner keyboards

• Best overall: YAMAHA YPT270 61-Key Portable Keyboard
• Best 88-key: Alesis Recital
• Best MIDI: Novation Launchkey Mini
• Best weighted: Donner SE-1 88
• Best compact: Casio Casiotone CT-S500
• Best budget: Casio SA-81

All beginners start with different levels of experience and goals. As a result, the best beginner keyboard for one person may not be the best for another. However, whether you are looking to simply play for fun, shopping for a young child to start on their musical journey, or aiming to get serious about the instrument, one of these keyboards will fit your needs.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best beginner keyboards in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

“Well, I’m just a modern guy. Of course, I’ve had it in my ear before. ‘Cause of a lust for life.” — Iggy Pop

I got really into Iggy Pop in 1996. There was nothing cool about doing this at the time; there was nothing cool about me at the time (though I would have disagreed at the time). Trainspotting came out that July and Danny Boyle’s unflinching film inspired would-be hedonists to choose life—or at least live vicariously through the equally kinetic soundtrack, kicked off by Iggy’s “Lust for Life” from 1977’s album of the same name. 

Less than a year later, in April 1997, Columbia Records reissued Iggy and the Stooges’ uncompromising 1973 proto-punk cornerstone Raw Power with a new mix by Iggy—an update on what he’s described as the “peculiarly English” original mix by David Bowie. This unabashedly brutal alternative, this unrelenting flagellation by digital distortion, was a rude, revealing look at what EQ could truly do to revise and personalize existing material.

So, yeah, I’ve had it in the ear before. Many, many, many times. Which I didn’t think was really an issue … until recently. And, as a modern man, I continue to lust for new ways to experience audio. So when I was introduced to the Denon PerL Pro True Wireless Earbuds, which use something called Masimo Adaptive Acoustic Technology to generate a custom EQ based on the user’s inner ear activity, I was intrigued. Would it make what goes in my head more in my face, or literally tone things down? Denon is a well-known name in AV receivers, so would the company’s earbuds (over)emphasize dimensionality? Grabbing an equally audio-obsessed coworker, Brandt Ranj, and two pairs of PerL Pros, I made and exchanged profiles and a playlist to compare and contrast whether this bespoke tuning feature was truly impactful. And what we discovered from our PerL jams versus was revealing both sonically and personally.

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So, what are the Denon PerL Pro True Wireless Earbuds?

The PerL Pros are the $349 flagships of the Denon true wireless earbuds lineup and check all the boxes while offering some outside-the-box features. They feature multipoint Bluetooth 5.3—no longer unusual—but include aptX Lossless in their codecs. This rarity delivers 16-bit 44.1kHz quality when paired with a device sporting Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8+ Gen. 1 chipset or newer (such as the ASUS ZenFone 10). Having tried the PerL Pro with both iPhone and Android, I can say that aptX Lossless sounds more crisp and cleanly articulated than AAC or even aptX Adaptive’s theoretical 24/96 transmissions. However, it’s not such an improvement that you should go spend $700 or more on a new source. 

Inside each distinctive 8.6g disc-shaped housing is a 10mm triple-layer titanium diaphragm dynamic driver with a 20 Hz-40 kHz frequency response and ultralow distortion reproduction. Multiple sizes of ear tips and “wings” make sure a secure fit is possible. Touch panels on the round outer surfaces allow access to assignable tap commands.

Battery life of the Denon PerL Pro earbuds is up to eight hours, with 24 additional hours of power within the case, which charges via USB-C or wireless Qi pad. They’re IPX4, so they’re mildly resistant to sweat and light rain. In terms of available colors, I hope you like matte black. What the Denon PerL Pros lack in aesthetic variety, however, they more than make up for in vivid sonics thanks to their definitive feature, which we’ll go into in the next section.

So, what do the Denon PerL Pro True Wireless Earbuds sound like?

Straight out of the box, the Denon PerL Pro earbuds have a neutral-ish tuning with a bit more presence in the lows than highs, making the stock tuning particularly suited for modern pop, EDM, and hip-hop. It’s flat, but to keep things from being too flat, a slider in the app, labeled “Immersion Mode,” allows you to boost or cut bass, which is taut, textured, and well-extended. 

But the defining factor of these earbuds’ sonic signature is in the name: Personalized Listening, aka PerL. When you first set up the Denon PerL Pros, the app prompts you to sit through a short test. A series of tones trigger your otoacoustic emissions (OAEs), which are vibrations from the inner ear that allow sensors in the PerL Pros to determine sound distribution and frequency sensitivity in the ear canal. (Make sure you do this process with properly sized tips and in a quiet environment; trying it in two locations did result in a perceivable difference.) This information is then analyzed and used to calibrate your profile. And, believe me, once you’ve engaged your profile, you’ll put no more stock in stock. Let’s take a look at how the Masimo Adaptive Acoustic Technology (AAT) technology made us more attuned to what we look for when we listen.

Tony’s impressions

It’s good time travel isn’t a reality yet, because I’d use it to kick my ass. 

Again, I’m part Iggy Pop acolyte, so I have to appreciate Young-Me’s joie de vivre, his teens and 20s DJing and attending concerts full of raw, unprotected audio. But if I confronted him about the damage he’d eventually do to our currently 47-year-old ears and he tried to downplay it, Now-Me could be like, I got the receipts, or at least the hearing threshold levels chart. 

For reasons completely unrelated to earbuds, I happened to book my first trip to the audiologist in many, many years soon after I got the Denon PerL Pros. And that visit confirmed what the Masimo AAT results already laid bare: Young-Me’s carefree nature cost Now-Me some top end. I could punch you, me. (And the rest of youse, wear earplugs.)

The first time I listened with my custom profile engaged, I wondered if “AAT” just stood for “Add Additional Treble.” Because I got a lot of it, accompanied by a judicious application of upper midrange. The thing was, I wasn’t mad at it. 

In Default mode, songs off of the 2002 album Yoshimi Battles the Pink Robots by Oklahoma oddballs turned festival favorites the Flaming Lips sounded like they were performing at dusk, and I wanted dawn. The rubbery bass lines and metronomic backbeat seemed warm and wooly until I toggled on my profile and with it a great leap in contrast, though not without some grain—the equivalent of applying Photoshop’s Sharpen feature. Brandt’s profile, meanwhile, was markedly bassier and more diffuse, vocals stifled by a turtleneck of kick drums and synths. It made the Default a shimmering beacon of lite psychedelia in comparison.   

Cycling back to my profile, it added a breeziness to the reedy timbre of John Prine. It wasn’t unpleasant to hear his fingerpickin’ in such stark relief, but a rumination on growing older loses a little something when you don’t feel the full force of time passing. Brandt’s profile definitely held more of the arrangement’s weight, but, again, elements—this time what sounds like a mix of Fender Rhodes and pedal steel—threatened to engulf the vocals.

Conversely, my profile’s lofty nature put extra wind into the sails of “The Ship Song” by Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds—a song as stately as it is threatening to capsize under the weight of naked emotion. Chiming tones tacked triumphantly through the swelling ballad, with Cave’s calmly unsettled voice at the helm against a broadened horizon. It’s intensity amplified and resilience rewarded. Brandt’s profile, however, softened the savagery for me. The song’s a devotional about yearning and burning, but it’s not meant to be overly soft and warm. It’s a warning and celebration of relationships that burn too bright.

Overall, my audio profile injected songs with an airiness and energy that bordered on bite but stopped short of aggression. Vocals have added presence thanks to their enhanced acoustic space, while bass remained well-positioned regardless of rumble. Both the fast transients and thick distortion of guitars in Metallica’s “For Whom The Bell Tolls,” Explosions in the Sky’s “Your Hand In Mind,” and several other test tracks (particularly metal), reaped the benefits of this speaker-like presentation. Brandt’s profile, which filled in notches in the subbass/midbass without compensation in the upper reaches, came across as too congested for my tastes. And, to be clear, these aren’t subtle differences or slight preferences. When the PerL Pros promise you personalized listening, it’s truly personalized.

Maybe time travel is a reality, at least for my ears, because they felt rejuvenated.

Brandt’s impressions

The experience of using the PerL Pro’s personalization features was instructive as it literally allowed me to hear music through another person’s ears, so to speak, and the differences in sound were profound. Some songs, like “Ego Tripping at the Gates of Hell” by the Flaming Lips, were entirely unlistenable on my colleague’s profile because the guitars—which are a welcome background element on my profile—were cranked up to 11. In that case, the psychedelic sound effects were drowned out to the point that it felt like I was listening to a demo rather than the completed track. On my profile, the bass was slightly boosted, and the song sounded as it should. 

This experience wasn’t universal, though, as “Hello In There” by John Prine actually sounded better to my ears on Tony’s profile. The sparse arrangement benefitted from a big boost of treble. Overall, however, my profile nailed my preferences, whether I was listening to the crunchy guitar sounds prominently featured throughout the 2023 remix of The Beatles’ Revolver or tracks on Olivia Rodrigo’s Guts. Switching from either profile to the PerL Pro’s Default EQ—which is what you get out of the box before running your hearing test—made playback sound flat. 

My ears could adjust to the Default after a few hours of listening, but in general, I liked sticking with a personalized profile. If you’re familiar with the music you’re listening to, you’ll definitely run into the occasional track that sounds unnaturally, unpleasantly sculpted, but those experiences were few and far between. And, in general, I’d describe the experience of listening to music on another person’s audio profile to be the aural equivalent of putting on another person’s shoes—you may even share the same size, but how one person wears and wears down the heel can make anyone else feel off-balance. 

The PerL Pro’s eponymous feature stands in contrast to the tactic used by other headphone makers, who make all the tuning decisions for you. Switching between the PerL Pros, Apple’s 2nd-generation AirPods Pro, and Jabra’s Elite 10 earbuds was an eye- or rather ear-opening experience. While my custom hearing profile on Denon’s earbuds sounded just right, it didn’t ruin the experience of other earbuds for me. I still enjoyed the tuning choices Apple and Jabra made and found music perfectly listenable. Both earbuds didn’t sound immediately flat like the non-customized PerL Pros, especially the AirPods Pro (2nd gen.), which I still contend offer the best out-of-the-box energy for most people. 

The stock sound signatures of both Apple and Jabra are tasteful; neither company went for the cheap trick of V-shaped tuning, artificially boosting a couple of sections of the frequency range and calling it a day. Both sets of earbuds sounded better right out of the package compared to Tony’s profile, but I ultimately preferred the sound of my personalized profile on the PerL Pros. At $349, Denon’s earbuds go for $100 or more above Apple’s and Jabra’s MSRP, but the audio quality shows the difference went into hardware and software that delivers on its promises.

Exchanging profiles might not have let me fully walk in Tony’s sonic shoes for a day, but it did give me a feel for what might get his toes tapping. It gave me empathy and deeper insight into how he evaluates audio gear. And, without a trip to the audiologist of my own, I walked away with a better understanding of my own hearing. The Denon PerL Pros haven’t ruined the experience of listening to music on different earbuds for me, but they have made me think twice about what colors my perception of musicality.

So, who should buy the Denon PerL Pro True Wireless Earbuds?

Sometimes I get really into missing 1996. For all the things I’d do differently (always carry earplugs, and definitely wear more sunscreen), there are a million I wouldn’t. And I’m always going to love listening to Iggy. But, because Young-Me wasn’t bright, my music now needs to be. The Denon PerL Pro Earbuds put more of that raw power back into songs and memories somewhat dulled by time. And, most importantly, they did it effortlessly. This is one of the reasons we count the PerL Pros among the best earbuds currently available.

Maybe you’ve been to the audiologist or know exactly what you’re searching for, so it’s easy for you to pick from the hundreds of personal audio choices out there. Maybe your hearing is still fully intact, and you want gear that can fine-tune that clarity. If you’re still of two minds about what to put in your two ears, the Denon PerL Pro Earbuds offer a great alternative to the one-sound-fits-all approach used by virtually every other headphone company. Youth fades. Frequency sensitivities change. But, thankfully, so does technology. Masimo AAT worked as advertised. So, with earbuds that can customize their sound based on your hear and now, getting excited by music can remain a constant.

The post Denon PerL Pro Earbuds review: A true wireless tune-up appeared first on Popular Science.

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Samsung’s screens get a lot of attention, but what’s a vivid image without equally detailed sound? The HW-Q900C is the simplest soundbar option at the high end of Samsung’s lineup. This 7.1.2 system provides effective surround sound, punchy bass, and some of the clearest dialog we’ve heard with just one soundbar and a wireless subwoofer. It sets up simply and performs admirably, especially if you’re connecting it to a Samsung TV. But, with so many options out there, is it worth your precious media console real estate?

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Overview

• This is Samsung’s flagship soundbar that ships with a remote and a subwoofer, no satellite speakers.
• The subwoofer connects wirelessly, so it only requires a power cord.
• Q900C attaches to a TV using HDMI (two inputs and one output) or infrared.
• Wireless connectivity includes Apple AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth 5.

Pros

• Excellent overall sound quality
• Some of the best dialog performance we’ve heard
• Very easy setup
• Impressive surround sound performance 
• Fills a big room
• Provides plenty of volume
• Rumbly bass

Cons

• Some niche features only work with a Samsung TV
• Big
• Pricey

Verdict

This high-end component provides some of the best sound we’ve heard out of a soundbar, especially considering that it doesn’t require any satellites (though you can add rear satellites if you want after the fact). This is a worthy upgrade, especially if you have a modern Samsung TV that can take advantage of the extra features. 

Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar build

Samsung offers two higher-end soundbar setups: the HW-Q910C, which features the same soundbar and subwoofer as the HW-900C but packaged with wireless Left/Right rear speakers, and the HW-Q990C, that same soundbar and subwoofer but with a pair of wireless satellites with height channels to make it an 11.1.4 configuration. That makes the HW-Q900C a simplified flagship, which is ideal for users who may have a slightly smaller room or don’t need maximum surround sound effects. 

The bar itself, 17 pounds of mostly sturdy metal with hexagonal angles, houses nine speakers in a 7.1.2-channel arrangement powered by 246 watts of built-in amplification. The bar is 48 inches long, which makes it just about as wide as my 65-inch TV, so it’s not a small device (though there are even heftier all-in-one soundbars out there). The 25-pound subwoofer is also somewhat chunky, but it contains an 8-inch woofer powered by a 200-watt amp. 

The box includes a mounting kit and the necessary hardware to put the soundbar up on a wall. I didn’t install it on my wall (I swap out soundbars too often to mount them), but it uses very standard and simple hardware that should be simple to install. 

Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar setup and design

Setting up the Samsung HW-Q900C is refreshingly simple. The bar sports two HDMI inputs (plus one HDMI out) and an infrared input. The ports don’t support HDMI 2.1 and, therefore, can’t passthrough 4K @ 120Hz. Still, they can handle 4K with HDR10 and HDR10+ and are eARC compatible, so if you’ve got a flagship gaming TV (like Samsung’s own OLED 4K S95C or NEO QLED 8K QN900C), you can just connect your console and soundbar directly to the screen and the setup is extremely simple right out of the box.

I’m testing an LG TV at the moment, and the HW-Q900C immediately worked well with the LG remote without finagling. If you want to stop there, you can with the setup, but more advanced users can dig into tuning and calibrating with the Samsung SmartThings app, and Samsung TV owners can use the automatic SpaceFit Sound Pro option.

Setting up the subwoofer requires little more than plugging it into the wall. It connects wirelessly and instantly. From opening the box to watching a movie (with basic setup), it took me less than 10 minutes. If you plan to tweak and go through the auto calibration, plan for roughly an hour.

Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar performance

Simply put, the Samsung HW-Q900C is one of the overall best-sounding soundbars I’ve heard. It’s solid for streaming music, even though it’s eclipsed in tunefulness by more purpose-built bars like the Sonos Arc, so if you’re ready to take a deep dive into spatial audio, consider that with the Sonos Era 300 speakers. The HW-Q900C, however, is excellent for watching movies and TV shows, in large part because of its ability to render dialog. During testing, I fired up a MAX stream of the woefully awful but sonically dramatic Jason Statham movie Meg 2: The Trench. Despite its nonsensical plot, the movie has a persistent bass rumble that ebbs and flows throughout the movie as the characters putter around under the sea. That lets me hear how granularly a system can modulate that low end while monitoring how well the actor’s voices cut through. The Samsung, aided by adaptive room correction and Active Voice Amplifier (AVA) processing, did outstanding in both cases. 

The subwoofer, with its “acoustic lens” design for deeper extension in a slimmer enclosure, provides true boominess when required for explosions and punchy impacts while deftly producing subtler ripples that add essential mood and ambiance to a movie. 

The HW-Q900C supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS:X surround sound technologies, and it offers an impressively immersive sound considering its lack of stand-alone satellites. Up-firing speakers and the soundbar’s 48-inch width give it physical advantages compared to smaller units. I fired up a Blu-ray player to watch my old standby testing movie, Alien on 4K disc, and found that the surround sound performance was excellent overall. Alarms blared behind my head, and that weirdly wet alien noise sounded like it could have been coming from anywhere in the room. 

I was similarly impressed with the sonic presence in less action-oriented movies. The Wolf of Wall Street, streamed in 4K with Dolby Atmos on Netflix, made the dialog sound as clear and crisp as it ever has. The high-end performance allowed me to keep the volume relatively low while keeping the dialog perfectly intelligible. That’s a big win.

Q900C sound modes

Switching between modes is relatively simple with the included remote, but the display on the front of the bar itself is very low-res and scrolls like the Lotto sign in the window of a bodega. It gives you an idea of what mode you’re in, but digging into the SmartThings app makes it simpler. If you go through the process of calibrating the system to your room, you likely won’t flip through the modes very often anyway. 

The gaming mode is one exception, as it emphasizes the directionality of the sounds to keep you aware of what’s happening around you as you game. Using it with a PlayStation 5, I could appreciate the difference.

Music performance

I’m not a huge fan of soundbars for music playback in general, but the HW-Q900C is perfectly capable. I listened to everything from the sad, twinkly Fiona Apple cover of the Beatles’ “Across the Universe” to the ruthlessly bombastic metalcore “Overthrone” by Judiciary. The bass comes across a bit strong, but the clean highs prevent things from falling into “muddy” territory. 

The real draw for playing music on the HW-Q900C is its simple connectivity. It easily connects via Bluetooth (the SBC codec) or Apple AirPlay 2 via WiFi (the far-preferable method). The soundbar also includes Alexa voice control, so if you use a compatible service, you can just ask the virtual assistant to play your music for you. 

Special features for Samsung users

Samsung would love for you to buy a 2022/2023 Samsung TV to go with your fancy new soundbar, and the company has added some exclusive features to make them more enticing. The Q-Symphony feature allows the HW-Q900C to work in concert with the TV’s built-in speakers to center and sync audio even more tightly to the on-screen action. Current Samsung TVs can also send a Dolby Atmos signal over Bluetooth to the soundbar for a wireless connection (though Q-Symphony requires a wire). That’s very handy, but also probably not worth basing your entire TV choice on. 

So, who should buy the Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar?

The Samsung HW-Q900C currently retails around $1,000, which puts it in the high-end category. But, with excellent surround sound performance, clear bass, and some of the best dialog reproduction I’ve ever heard, it’s a Dolby Atmos soundbar worth the investment if you can swing it. Some more advanced users may prefer the upgraded Q990C with its more immersive wireless surround sound system. Still, Samsung’s bar and subwoofer combo had absolutely no problem filling my very average-sized suburban living room on its own. If you’re already using a newer Samsung TV and can access the extra features of the pairing, it’s an even better value. 

Ultimately, this is a great pick for anyone looking for a high-performance setup that doesn’t take up much space or require a lot of setup. Just plug it in, fire up Meg 2: The Trench, and let the great sound drown out the plot holes.

The post Samsung HW-Q900C soundbar review: A standout standalone sound system appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Shokz OpenRun Pro		SEE IT	Impressive battery life, water resistance, and reliable connectivity make these the best pair of bone-conduction headphones around.
Best for kids		N/0 Kids Bone Conduction Headphones		SEE IT	Give your kids a pair of headphones that will provide safe entertainment while they stay active.
Best waterproof		Shokz OpenSwim		SEE IT	A pair of open-ear headphones that’s waterproof, the OpenSwim suit doing laps in the pool swimmingly.

Whether it’s time for some online learning, you’re about to embark on a family road trip, or you just can’t stand to listen to another episode of “Paw Patrol,” you can help keep your child engaged for as long as necessary with headphones. But before you put random off-the-shelf gear on your little one’s head you want to make sure they’re both comfortable headphones and safe. To help make sure they don’t lose their hearing and you don’t lose your mind, we’ve put together this guide to the best kids’ headphones so the only constant questions you have to answer come from your children.

• Best overall: ​​Puro Sound Labs BT2200 Plus
• Best for young gamers: JLab JBuddies Play
• Best for older kids: LilGadgets Untangled Pro
• Best for babies: Baby BANZ dual-purpose earmuffs
• Best for customization: ONANOFF BuddyPhones Explore+
• Best budget: noot K11 foldable kids headphones

How we selected the best kids’ headphones

There are hundreds of kids’ headphones on the market, so we completed extensive research and consulted first-hand users to select standout models. We focused primarily on fit, durability, and safety features like volume limiting. We also considered some additional accouterments that some families may find useful, like a built-in microphone. We chose units that were easy to use and suitable for various ages so that you can find a great pair of kids’ headphones for even the youngest member of the family. 

The best kids’ headphones: Reviews & Recommendations

You want to make sure you’re selecting an age-appropriate pair of the best kids’ headphones that will fit your child and keep them occupied. We want to make sure you’re selecting an age-appropriate pair of the best kids’ headphones that will fit your child and keep them occupied. Are we theeeeeeere yet?!? Almost!

Best overall: Puro Sound Labs BT2200 Plus

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Specs

• Battery life: 20 hours playback, 200 hours standby
• Volume limit: 85 dBA
• Charge time: Up to 3 hours
• Wireless range: Up to 30 feet
• Microphone: Built-in wireless

Pros

• Quality sound with an effective volume limiter
• Solid battery life
• Can daisy chain to another pair

Cons

• Pricey
• May lack durability
• Case can be flimsy

Puro Sound Labs has created a pair of top-tier kids’ headphones that will suit children at almost any age. The Puro BT2200 Plus Bluetooth headphones are equipped with an 85 dB volume limiter that cannot be bypassed regardless of the content or connected device. Passive noise cancellation blocks out 83 percent of background noise, which is helpful for keeping calm and staying focused. The audio quality on these kids’ headphones are quite impressive for a pair of kids’ headphones, even with the volume limit, and the battery follows suit with up to 20 hours of playback and a three-hour charge time. Available in over five colors, this pair features onboard volume control and comes with a carrying case, a 3.5mm cable for wired listening that maintains the volume limit, and a daisy chain cable that allows you to connect with another pair of Puro’s so your kids can watch their favorite movies at the same time.

Best for young gamers: JLab JBuddies Play

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Specs

• Battery life: 22 hours of playback, 400 hours standby
• Volume limit: 85 dBA
• Charge time: Up to 3 hours, 10-minute quick charge 
• Wireless range: Up to 30 feet
• Microphone: Retractable boom microphone

Pros

• Retractable boom mic
• Long-lasting battery with quick charge
• Quick mute button

Cons

• Proprietary charging cord
• Earcups aren’t replaceable
• Material feels cheaper compared to some models

The Play headphones are marketed as a gaming headset, but they certainly double as the best headphones for kids playback and enhanced call quality for remote learning, family Skype calls, and other forms of virtual communication. The boom microphone is situated directly in front of the mouth, which helps isolate your child’s voice and eliminate background noise—a super helpful tool for clear audio, especially if there’s a lot going on at home. The mic is also retractable, so you can get it out of the way when unnecessary. For budding gamers, Game mode utilizes low-latency, boosted mid-to-high frequencies, and Bluetooth 5.0 with aptX and is compatible with most gaming systems, including PlayStation, Xbox, and more. A 3.5mm cable connection is also an option for zero latency. The colorful pads are great if a heated game session runs long (plus they’ll look sharp when your child sees friends in person or on camera, with parental approval). The Play is suitable for ages 6 to 13 with a flexible headband that remains comfortable even for kids who wear glasses, plus an effective 85 dB volume limiter. If you’re looking to prioritize quality conversations with your talkative tykes, but want something slightly less expensive and that skews younger, check out the BuddyPhones School+ wired headphones with mic and an inline answer button.

Best for older kids: LilGadgets Untangled Pro

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Specs

• Battery life: 12 hours playback, 180 hours standby
• Volume limit: 93 dBA
• Charge time: Up to 3 hours 
• Wireless range: Up to 30 feet
• Microphone: Built-in wireless

Pros

• SharePort lets you connect multiple headphones without a splitter
• Comfortable
• Fun, colorful, mature design

Cons

• Volume limit goes above industry standard
• Not suitable for young children
• Battery life is middle of the road

The LilGadgets Untangled Pros offer an advanced listening experience for older kids who are about to graduate from children’s technology. Though they are designed for kids ages four and up, we recommend reserving them for preteens and teenagers because the volume limit is higher than the recommended 85 dB. With a limit of 93 dB, listening levels will still be capped but come a bit closer to adult parameters. You won’t be able to control your kids’ volume forever, so this is a great way to encourage healthy habits before they start blasting their music day and night. The colorful styles are fun yet mature, and a 12-hour battery will supply enough music to make it many walks to school. A 3.5mm cable with an inline microphone will keep them connected even when the battery starts to run low.

Best for babies: Baby BANZ dual-purpose earmuffs

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Specs

• Battery life: 8 hours 
• Volume limit: 75 dB
• Charge time: 1 hour 
• Wireless range: Up to 30 feet
• Microphone: None

Pros

• Volume control is entirely up to parents
• Limit of 75 dB is suitable for infants’ ears
• Solid noise reduction rating -NRR 31dB

Cons

• Pricey
• Getting the fit just right can be tricky
• Only one color option for the Bluetooth model

While infant earmuffs are a common item to add to your registry, consider going a step further and grabbing this pair of baby Bluetooth headphones from BANZ. Available in two sizes, one for 0-2 years and another for 3 years and up, these headphones reduce outside noise by up to 31 dB, protecting their ears from crowds, sirens, loud music, and more. Plus, they are Bluetooth equipped, which means not only can you quiet the outside world, but you can play their favorite songs and shows at a safe volume, increasing their comfort and calm. There aren’t any onboard controls, which means you’re in charge of volume and, just in case, there is a built-in 75 dB limit. The design is comfortable with foam cushions around the ears and a soft, flexible leather headband. These headphones are also rated by the organization Able Play as being suitable for children with special needs.

Best for customization: ONANOFF BuddyPhones Explore+

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Specs

• Battery life: N/A 
• Volume limit: 85 dB
• Charge time: N/A
• Wireless range: N/A
• Microphone: In-line
• Cable: Around 4 feet, with 3.5mm termination

Pros

• Audio capped at 85 dB
• Made with hypoallergenic materials
• Detachable cable preventing snagging

Cons

• No noise cancellation

If you’re looking for a pair of headphones that will make your child stand out from the rest of the crowd, look no further than the ONANOFF BuddyPhones Explore+. These headphones come in six different colors with four included sticker designs to put on the ear cups, and are built with Nordic design and quality—they feature 30mm Neodymium drivers and include an ergonomic wide headband for comfort. Although they’re wired, the cable detaches to prevent a dangerous snag. And, these headphones are made with friendship and sharing in mind, thanks to the built-in stackable audio splitter that can connect up to four pairs of headphones into one device. These headphones include features adult audioheads expect, like a built-in microphone and call/playback button, but limit volume at 85 dB for safe listening. Parents will appreciate that they fold and come with an included travel bag. While you won’t find features common in adult headphones, such as active noise cancellation, the comfy ear cushions can still help block out the distractions of travel and keep your child wrapped up in the music. And if you definitely want to keep them wrapped up only in music, and not wires, BuddyPhones also makes the equally fun and functional School+ Wireless headphones, which are more expensive at $60 but our reviewer found them invaluable during the height of remote schooling in 2021.

Best budget: noot K11 foldable kids headphones

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Specs

• Battery life: N/A 
• Volume limit: 93 dB
• Charge time: N/A
• Wireless range: N/A
• Microphone: None
• Cable: 5 feet, with 3.5mm termination

Pros

• Inexpensive
• Flexible sizing
• Passive noise cancellation helps promote lower volume

Cons

• Wired design can be dangerous
• No microphone
• No volume limiter

While the noot K11 headphones forgo some of the safety features we recommend investing in, they are perfectly suitable for young kids to use as long as they have some supervision. These foldable, wired headphones feature a flexible headband, 5-foot braided connection cable, and are available in various bright colors. Noot says the maximum output is around 93 dB, but some report the 40mm drivers can get louder, so make sure you remind your little ones to stay away from the volume control (which can often be digitally capped in your smartphone, etc., just in case). Passive noise cancellation helps isolate the audio and eliminate the need to raise the volume and the lack of onboard controls actually helps keep kids’ fingers away from accidental adjustments. The most attractive thing the K11 headphones have to offer is an under $30 price point, making it more feasible to invest in replacement if you have kids who are tough on their tech.

What to consider when buying a pair of the best kids’ headphones

The best kids’ headphones will provide a safe and satisfying listening experience for children of all ages, but there are a few things you should consider before buying a bundle for your family. While buying a simple set of kid’s headphones should be easy, there are a few features you’ll want to prioritize. Our hearing is super susceptible to damage from continuous exposure to high playback volumes. While this degradation is inevitable as you age, it’s important to prevent any early damage early on in your kid’s life. So, before you place a pair of cans over your little one’s ears, you want to ensure you have read the specs and clearly see safety features proudly listed.

We all know the kids tend to drop, spill, lose, and overuse their things, but that doesn’t mean you should prohibit them from trying new technology. Instead, look for a model designed to fit their specific needs. Could they benefit from a water-resistant model? Is extra cushioning ideal? How about a volume limiter? Will something budget-friendly soften the blow of a lost pair? These are all important things to consider before purchasing, so let’s look at a few points.

What’s the deal with volume limiting? 

Unlike adult headphones, many kids’ headphones feature a volume limiter, usually capped at 85 decibels. In theory, this means they cannot turn their music, movies, or TV show audio above the level acknowledged as damaging. It’s recommended that adults not exceed 85 dB when listening, though we’ve all needed to pump up the jams from time to time. And children’s ears are particularly susceptible to damage. Their ears are smaller, which means loud noises can be perceived as 20 dB louder than what an adult eardrum would process. Protecting your child’s developing auditory system is essential, and a volume limiter is a great first step. Plus, 85 dB isn’t quiet by any sense of the word (think loud traffic), so you shouldn’t worry too much about your child bothering you to turn up the sound. Along the way, encourage your child to develop a habit of avoiding prolonged exposure to loud music, especially if it’s being beamed directly into their ears. 

Are there other safety features on kids’ headphones to consider?

Yes, alongside a volume limiter, you want to consider a few other features, especially for younger children. While a pair of wired headphones can occasionally be less expensive, it’s safe to go with a pair of Bluetooth headphones, eliminating any wires that could get tangled up around your kid and cut off circulation or respiration. Luckily, kids’ headphones have kept up with the times, and there are plenty of available options that utilize a wireless connection. 

You also want to avoid using a foldable pair until your kid is a little older. The hinges of foldable headphones tend to pinch even adult fingers. Though you may lose out on compact storage, you’ll save yourself some tears, a worthy trade-off. 

Finally, make sure you limit listening time in general. Even at lower volumes, continuous noise exposure can contribute to hearing loss. Your child should never listen to eight hours of consecutive sound through headphones at any volume. You should also encourage your child to take frequent listening breaks; consider instituting a headphone rest after every movie, television episode, Zoom school class, or hour of music. 

Are you taking the kids on a trip?

If you need a pair of Bluetooth kids’ headphones for a long road trip or international flight, make sure you check out battery life before hitting “Add to Cart.” We all know that somehow, inevitably, the outlet next to your specific airplane seat won’t work, so rather than deal with a whiny kid for the final four hours of your journey, invest in a pair that can last for up to 20 hours on a single charge. While we don’t recommend you let them listen to their music that entire time, having a long-lasting battery will undoubtedly help you make it through a delayed plane, highway traffic, and more. 

If you have an older child and want to ensure there won’t be a battery issue, you can check out a few wired models or Bluetooth pairs that come with an optional auxiliary connection. Just make sure you keep an eye on them, especially if they are starting to fall asleep while listening. 

Does your child need a microphone?

If your child is school-aged, chances are they have experienced some remote learning, are on their way to getting a cellphone, have started experimenting with online gaming, or may still need to sit through a class or two on Zoom. If this sounds like your child, consider selecting a pair of kids’ headphones equipped with a microphone. Not only will you be able to have some extended peace and quiet while they FaceTime with Grandma, but you’ll also be able to reach them on the phone anytime, anywhere, even when they’ve cranked up the volume.

How much are you looking to spend? 

While excellent adult headphones can retail for many hundreds, even thousands, kids’ headphones are typically much more affordable. Generally speaking, children’s headphones focus more on comfort and safety than audiophile-quality sound, which we don’t have a problem with. We’d be surprised if your six-year-old kid started to complain about their cans’ lack of pace, rhythm, and timing. So wait until they have developed a more refined auditory palette in their teen years before investing in anything too expensive. Especially because, as your child ages, they are destined to grow out of their headphones, if they don’t lose or break them first. You should already be expecting to purchase a couple of pairs before they mature. On average, while you can find pairs for under $30, the best kids’ headphones usually retail between $45 and $95. 

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best kids’ headphones

• Best overall: ​​Puro Sound Labs BT2200 Plus
• Best for young gamers: JLab JBuddies Play
• Best for older kids: LilGadgets Untangled Pro
• Best for babies: Baby BANZ dual-purpose earmuffs
• Best for customization: ONANOFF BuddyPhones Explore+
• Best budget: noot K11 foldable kids headphones

With so many options out there, it can be hard to feel confident choosing a pair of headphones for your child. However, there are many pairs that keep your kid’s safety in mind with an effective volume limiter, extended battery life, and a comfortable design. Headphones will keep your kid calm and quiet during travel, focused during classes or phone calls, and conflict-free when it comes to TV time with their siblings. If you think it’s to give your little one a bit of listening privacy (and yourself a break from “Let It Go,” “Baby Shark,” or “CoComelon” reruns), you’re ready to start looking at the best kids’ headphones.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best kids’ headphones of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Shokz OpenRun Pro		SEE IT	Impressive battery life, water resistance, and reliable connectivity make these the best pair of bone-conduction headphones around.
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Most people don’t give a lot of thought to microphones. Those people aren’t livestreaming. For anyone sharing their actions and reactions live on Twitch, YouTube, Facebook Live, etc., a quality standalone mic is one of the most important pieces of equipment you can buy. Long gone are the days when a generic headset or a computer’s tinny built-in mic will do. But not every mic suits every job and the wrong one in your studio can limit your broadcast options or even silence you completely. With the best mics for streaming, however, it’s easy to make your livestream sing—literally, if that’s what you like to do on-air!

• Best overall: Blue Yeti
• Best for multiple sources: Elgato Wave:3
• Best professional: Shure SM7B
• Best budget: Rode PodMic
• Best portable: Sennheiser MKE 400

How we selected the best mics for streaming

The microphone market is saturated with products and choosing the right piece of equipment isn’t always easy. We consulted academic articles and product reviews, we spoke with professionals, and we did our own first-hand testing to find mics whose signals rise above the noise. We focused on microphones designed for different types of streamers, from interviewers to gamers and everyone in between, and evaluated criteria like audio quality, ease-of-use, flexible features, and portability. Finally, while a mic’s aesthetics don’t play a role in how it sounds, we realize that, when livestreaming, your equipment often becomes part of your on-screen persona. All other things being equal, we stuck to nicely designed mics.

The best mics for streaming: Reviews & Recommendations

Not all mics are created equal and navigating an industry swamped with options can leave anyone’s ears ringing. So we performed a few check-check-checks for you and here are our picks for the best mics to stream with.

Best overall: Blue Yeti

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Why it made the cut: Blue Microphones has been producing mics for streamers and podcasters for years, and the ubiquitous Yeti’s three condensers and variety of polar patterns make it one of their most versatile models.

Specs:

• Capsules: Three condensers
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Connector: mini-USB
• Number of Polar Patterns: Four

Pros

• Three condenser capsules
• Four polar patterns for versatility
• Internal headphone monitoring

Cons

• No XLR output
• Not particularly sleek

There’s a great reason you’ll find the Blue Microphones Yeti USB microphone in the studios of many streamers and podcasters: it’s simple to use, versatile, delivers great sound, and costs less than even a D-list cover band’s touring budget. As one of the best mics for streaming this mic combines three separate condenser capsules and has four selectable polar patterns: cardioid, omni, figure-8, and stereo. Its 16-bit/48kHz analog-to-digital converter captures all the expressiveness of the human voice and the mic provides zero-latency monitoring thanks to an internal headphone amp and output (with its own volume knob). An input gain control keeps louder sound sources under control and you can use the mute switch whenever discussing something you don’t want your listeners to hear—or you just need to sneeze. The Yeti’s USB output makes connecting it to a computer simple and the microphone sits on your desk using its included stand. If your setup is more modular, you can also mount the Yeti to a swing-arm using the threaded connector set into its housing. And, as an added bonus for any streamers who like to keep their mics in sight of the camera, the standard Yeti comes in a variety of colors—including blue, silver, teal, red, and black.

For even more on-screen impact, consider the HyperX QuadCast S—which we reviewed here—a gaming microphone with customizable RGB lighting. Or, if you’re good with the general look of the Blue Yeti but want some subtle visual flair and a bump in audio clarity, consider the newer, slightly more expensive Yeti X (learn more about the differences here).

Best for multiple sources: Elgato Wave:3

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Why it made the cut: The Wave:3’s Clipguard technology helps stop bad audio from ruining your stream by preventing the mic from distorting when you get too loud.

Specs:

• Capsules: One condensers
• Frequency Response: 70 Hz to 20 kHz
• Connector: USB-C
• Number of Polar Patterns: One

Pros

• Clipguard technology helps prevent distorted audio
• USB-C output is compatible with modern laptops
• Integrates seamlessly with Wave Link software mixer

Cons

• Only has a single condenser capsule
• Polar pattern is limited to cardioid
• Needs a separate shock-mount to attach it to a swing-arm

The Elgato Wave:3 is an innovative streaming and podcast microphone that connects seamlessly to Wave Link, Elgato’s digital mixing platform for both Windows and Mac OS. The classy-looking, rectangular mic has one condenser capsule and a fixed cardioid polar pattern, but the audio that comes from it is at a high-quality 96kHz/24-bit resolution. An internal pop-filter helps cut down on those plosives—the hard P’s and B’s that make your audience’s speakers shake—while the company’s proprietary Clipguard technology allows you to rant and rave as loudly as you’d like without the mic distorting. Those are great features, but what really sells the mic is the included Wave Link software, which allows you to combine audio from eight sources—like video games, voice chats, music, alerts, samples, or other mics—into a single broadcast. All in all, this is an elegant solution if you’re building more complex streams.

Best for professionals: Shure SM7B

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Why it made the cut: The SM7B’s single, dynamic microphone capsule has a cardioid response pattern that accurately captures your voice while helping to reject off-axis, ambient sounds.

Specs:

• Capsules: One dynamic
• Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
• Connector: XLR
• Number of Polar Patterns: One

Pros

• Dynamic capsule’s frequency range captures some of the best vocal tone
• Cardioid response pattern helps reject background noise
• Integrates yoke makes mounting the mic easy

Cons

• No USB
• More expensive than most streaming mics
• XLR output requires a separate audio interface
• Single cardioid pattern limits versatility

Shure has been a leader in professional-grade stage and studio microphones since 1925 and the company’s products, like the venerable SM58, have graced the performances of divas, pop stars, and heavy-metal gods; recorded instruments on best-selling records; and found a home in broadcast booths worldwide, which is exactly where you’ll find the SM7B. Whether you’re trying to create the rich, honeyed tones of a public radio host or you frequently burst out into raucous song during your livestream, the SM7B’s dynamic capsule is a recording microphone set to receive the goods. Undoubtedly the best studio microphone of our choices, it handles high volumes across a wide frequency range without distortion and its cardioid polar pattern keeps your voice front-and-center in the mix while rejecting surrounding chatter. It’s easy to tailor your sound using the SM7B’s built-in toggles for bass rolloff and presence. However, the SM7B uses a professional XLR microphone connector, which means you’ll need to make sure you’ve got an audio interface like the Red Scarlett 2i2, or a mixer with a USB output, like Roland GO:MIXER PRO-X, in order to get sound into your computer. So your investment requires further investment. Space and budget a little tight? Another great option that shares some of the SM7B’s pedigree, but adds USB, is the Shure MV7 (read our full thoughts on it here).

Best budget: Rode PodMic

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Why it made the cut: Rode’s PodMic captures the rich tones of a dynamic microphone but without the accompanying cost.

Specs:

• Capsules: One dynamic
• Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 20 kHz
• Connector: XLR
• Number of Polar Patterns: One

Pros

• Wide 20 Hz to 20 kHz frequency response
• Robust dynamic capsule
• Much less expensive than other dynamic mics

Cons

• Thinner sounding than some of the higher-end dynamic mics
• XLR connector requires an audio interface to connect to the computer

Sometimes, you have a PC with a purpose and sometimes you want a jack of all trades. The same can be true of your speakers. Rode has worked hard over the years to establish itself as a purveyor of high-quality, budget-friendly microphones and today its products are found in professional settings all over the world. So it’s not surprising that this dynamic microphone captures the warm sounds of pro broadcasters without emptying your wallet. Its single capsule has a cardioid polar pattern that focuses the listener on your voice while holding ambient noise at bay. Rode describes the PodMic as optimized for use with the company’s RodeCaster Pro Podcast production studio—an external mixer and recording unit with four inputs—but the microphone’s professional, balanced XLR output connects to any audio interface for use with a computer. It also can plug directly into field recording units, video cameras, or professional mixers.

Best portable: Sennheiser MKE 400

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Why it made the cut: The supercardioid polar pattern is specifically designed to reject a fair amount of noise from anywhere but directly in front of the mic, making the mic excellent for use in noisy environments.

Specs:

• Capsules: One condensers
• Frequency Response: 50 Hz to 20 kHz
• Connector: TRS or TRRS
• Number of Polar Patterns: One

Pros

• Supercardioid polar pattern rejects unwanted sound
• TRRS connector works with iOS and Android mobile devices
• Small and lightweight

Cons

• Audio quality isn’t as rich as higher-end options
• Requires AAA batteries
• Somewhat awkward output jack placement

Sennheiser makes some of the best microphones in the world, go-to equipment for audio professionals across a wide range of industries. The German company’s MKE 400 compact shotgun microphone (read our full review here) is small enough to sit comfortably on smartphones—using the included phone mount—or compact cameras using the built-in cold-shoe. It features TRRS connectivity so you can attach it to an iOS or Android device without losing access to your phone and also comes with a TRS connector for use with cameras, micro-mixers with TRS inputs, or full-size mixers and audio interfaces using third-party TRS to ¼-inch adapters. The MKE 400 is known as a shotgun microphone because of its single-condenser interface and supercardioid polar pattern that offers extreme rejection of noise from the sides—these types of mics do a great job of keeping the focus on whatever they’re pointed at. The MKE 400 includes switches for gain boost and cut, a bass rolloff switch, plus a zero-latency headphone output jack and dedicated volume control. It comes with a tripod and phone holder for easy positioning on a desk or for use as a handle when shooting livestreams in the field.

What to consider when shopping for the best mics for streaming

All the top microphones will deliver high-quality audio, but mics still differ in various ways. When shopping for a streaming microphone, think about the kind of show you’re streaming and what sort of features the mic can bring to your production values. Make sure you understand the ins and outs of how different pickup (or “polar”) patterns, microphone capsules, and connections work so you won’t have to worry about downtime while your audience numbers dwindle. Remember, with microphones you get what you pay for—they don’t have to cost as much as a car to do their job, but beware the flood of budget-oriented, low-quality mics popping up online. Stick to brands that have established reputations in the audio marketplace.

A pattern of use

Different microphones are designed to capture sound waves from different positions. Cardioid mics pick up sound sources right in front of them and are great for use in the broadcast booth or when only one person’s speaking. Mics with omni patterns respond well to people clustered around it—use them if you’re streaming the conversation at a party or you want to pick up all the ambient noise at an event to help your listeners feel like they’re on the scene. Mics with figure-8 patterns are ideal for interviews; they pick up voices on either side, and reject a lot of the surrounding noise. Many mics have one polar pattern, but a company like Blue makes theirs with the ability to switch the range of the mic’s response.

Types of mics

Generally speaking, the best mics come in two flavors: condenser and dynamic capsules. Many streamers prefer the best condenser mics because they’re great for capturing quiet sounds and subtle nuances. They’re also usually available in a wider range of polar patterns. On the other hand, they can be delicate, don’t do a very good job with loud noises, and also require power from either an internal battery or through a USB connection or a source that can deliver 48v phantom power. Dynamic mics, on the other hand, are robust tools that hold up well to high volumes—and rougher handling. They often have a cardioid polar pattern that does an excellent job rejecting background noise, which is why they commonly turn up in the hands of stage performers and field reporters. These are excellent mics if you’re streaming from a noisy household, comic convention, or bustling office. It’s harder to find them with USB connections, though, which makes them a bit trickier to slide into your audio chain. It’s worth noting that dynamic mics often have a warmer sound, which is one reason radio broadcasters deliver their schtick in such dulcet tones. If you want a more naturalistic sound, it might be worth looking at condenser mics.

On the road again

Streaming tech has reached a point where it’s easy to broadcast live using just a smartphone with a solid LTE or WiFi connection. If you’re traveling, look for small, lightweight mics that can connect to your device via its TRRS jack, or USB or Lightning ports. These mics usually have an extremely directional supercardioid or hypercardioid pattern—they’re colloquially known as shotgun mics—so that when you point them at yourself for a selfie walk-and-talk, pesky environmental noise won’t screw up your stream. It’s worth considering keeping one in your backpack and using a different mic in your home studio.

If you often stream from the road, consider pairing your mic with a micro-mixer like the Roland GO:MIXER PRO-X. This pocket-size mixer has nine audio inputs and connects directly to an iOS or Android device so you can record not only yourself, but also collaborators, musicians, or anyone else.

Making a connection

Microphones can plug directly into most computers via USB or, sometimes, using a traditional audio cable that connects to a USB audio interface. If you’ve got multiple audio sources, a mixer is handy—some have USB outs themselves, while others will also need to plug into an audio interface. While a USB connection is convenient, it does limit the mic to the digital world. If you want to use the mic in other applications, it needs to have an analog output such as balanced XLR or TRS.

FAQs

Final word on picking the best mics for streaming

• Best overall: Blue Yeti
• Best for multiple sources: Elgato Wave:3
• Best professional: Shure SM7B
• Best budget: Rode PodMic
• Best portable: Sennheiser MKE 400

The best mic for streaming is an investment that will serve you well for as long as you stay on the air. If you have clear goals for your streaming, try to find a mic that helps you accomplish them even as you and your online identity grow. But also consider multiple mics for different situations; sometimes the best streaming microphone in the studio or while you’re gaming isn’t ideal for taking to a festival or industry event. In the end, when buying equipment, remember the value of research. Read reviews, consult our guides, and don’t forget to find out what your favorite podcasters are using. Then get out there and make some noise.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best mics for streaming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

The unfortunate reality of rapidly advancing TV tech is that as screens have gotten flatter, so has the sound they output. That leaves flatscreen owners with a choice: find space for a surround-sound setup with bulky subwoofer and satellite speakers, or turn to single-unit soundbars that can simulate an all-around 5.1 or 7.1 speaker setup without the need for threading wires and installing wall mounts. And thanks to the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max, convenience won’t cost you audio quality, though it will cost you $2,499—a major price jump from similar immersion-focused integrated systems like the $999 Vizio Elevate or the Sony HT-A7000. Featuring 13 drivers and the ability to transform any source into 3D audio, this thick slab of sound is for those who want the best soundbar, regardless of price. It’s an investment, but one worthy of the best OLED TVs and best QLED TVs.

The Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max’s design

Accommodating all those speakers (two firing upward and 11 outward) and the 500 watts of power to drive them requires considerable size and weight. At almost 41 pounds, 50 inches wide, and more than 5 inches tall (including the rubber feet), the AMBEO Max is considerably larger than the average soundbar. On the same tabletop as a flagship TV, the Sennheiser soundbar may block a portion of your screen unless the TV is mounted upon a wall or has a height-adjustable stand. 

A small display on the AMBEO’s fabric-covered front face shows basic info, such as input source, volume level, and connectivity status when connected to Bluetooth 4.2 or when Chromecasting from the iOS or Android Google Home app. The brushed metal top panel has an embedded row of essential controls. While, on the back, the Sennheiser AMBEO Max soundbar has three HDMI inputs for connecting components like gaming consoles or Blu-ray players, along with an HDMI TV eARC (Audio Return Channel) output for two-way connection to compatible TVs. This means the AMBEO can pass through 4K and HDR (including Dolby Vision) signals from components to the TV. There’s a subwoofer output should you wish to add one to your system, as well as an optical input for digital audio and an RCA audio input. An Ethernet port is there should you prefer a wired connection over the built-in WiFi. The Google Home app performs Chromecasting and any firmware updates, but there is also a USB port solely for performing firmware updates if needed.

Getting started with the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max

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If your primary setup is source-soundbar-TV, you’ll find everything you need in the Sennheiser AMBEO soundbar box to set up quickly: a standard “figure-8” power cable and a high-speed HDMI cable for an eARC connection for two-way comms with the TV, plus a remote control. The AMBEO may seem like a lot of soundbar (and it is), but it is quite simple to connect to your TV. With my Samsung TV connected in this way, the TV remote would power up and down both the TV and the AMBEO, and the TV remote controlled the AMBEO’s volume while the TV’s internal speakers were bypassed. It’s nice and simple. In the rare case that you don’t have an ARC-compatible TV, you’ll just need to connect an optical audio cable from the TV to the soundbar. 

Using the ceiling and walls to reflect sound is key to the Sennheiser AMBEO soundbar’s ability to simulate surround sound, so the “hardest” part of setting up the soundbar is just making sure none of the speakers, including the upfiring ones, are obstructed by anything. Then, before settling in for your new audio experience, you’ll want to optimize the AMBEO’s internal settings for the room with the included stand-up calibration microphone. You plug this into the front of the soundbar, place the microphone where you will most often be while listening to the system (recommended six or more meters away) and, when prompted from the remote, the AMBEO emits a series of loud frequency sweeps to set levels it saves in internal memory. When finished, just store the microphone somewhere so you can repeat the process again if you move the AMBEO—or the sofa. 

Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar key features

Unlike a lot of A/V companies, Sennheiser comes to soundbars from a pro-audio perspective. It is decades of engineering studio microphones and audiophile headphones that give the German company the confidence to ask serious coin for the AMBEO. For comparison, Sonos, a much younger company that started in multiroom audio systems, asks just $899 for the Arc, its fidelity-first flagship soundbar with Dolby Atmos and Amazon Alexa. 

Considering its price and the pedigree of the 75-year-old brand, the Sennheiser AMBEO soundbar must live or die based on its audio quality and the many ways in which it treats incoming signals to sound like a 5.1.4 surround system (representing two left channels, two right channels, and a center channel; a subwoofer; and four rear channels). In order to do this, the soundbar supports all the major 5.1 and 7.1 surround formats found in legacy movies and games, plus all newer 3D audio ones you’re likely to come across on discs or streaming, including Dolby Atmos; DTS:X; MPEG-H; and even Sony 360 Reality Audio (an April 2021 firmware addition, exhibiting Sennheiser’s desire to futureproof your sizeable investment). But you won’t need to worry about formats for the most part beyond initially setting up HDMI devices. For example, when I connected a Sony PS4 to the AMBEO and chose the audio settings for the game console, it knew the soundbar was compatible with DTS 7.1 and defaulted to that setting. 

Virtual reality

Set up via room correction, the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max pumped out detailed, clear audio with excellent definition and separation in the mid- and high-frequency ranges. It also had a very satisfying bass response, reaching down to a thumping 30Hz while maintaining a natural tonality. However, if you’re a real bass addict who needs to feel the kind of guttural quivering inside that you only get from large loudspeakers or subwoofer-reinforced systems, the AMBEO can’t quite compare to that feeling. 

For about two weeks, I ran nearly every piece of visual and audio media I played through the AMBEO, including the Netflix Army of the Dead movie and the John Wick franchise (both with Dolby Atmos), the PS4 Middle Earth: Shadow of War game in DTS 7.1 sound, and a selection of 21st-century music with which I am intimately familiar, including hip-hop, pop, and a range of electronic music such as dubstep, house, and indie-dance.

With film, the dialogue was more intelligible, maintaining its presence even as dynamic atmospheres stretched across the room. And directional cues increased the excitement exponentially. In the bathhouse scene of John Wick (2014), there’s a sequence when Wick’s target Iosef runs across the screen behind a series of glass panels, bullets transforming each into a spiderweb of cracks in turn. Hearing the bullets fly in as the sound of their impact radiated out caused my head to involuntarily turn, generating one of those “wow” moments that are rare from all but the best gear. Games exhibited similar spatial depths—sound pinging and panning and the virtual world feeling even more visceral with the AMBEO’s 13 drivers sending sounds flying in all directions. 

The Sennheiser AMBEO soundbar treated rumbling sound effects and bass-heavy music equally well—presenting plenty of low-end without distracting from or distorting the overall audio. Playing the squelching symphonics of Daft Punk’s TRON: Legacy Reconfigured on the AMBEO Soundbar Max, either from the Bluetooth connection or from streaming apps on the TV or PS4, was a real joy. The soundbar takes two-channel music and parcels it out across its 13 speakers in unexpected and delightful ways. I quickly preferred music through AMBEO virtualization over my dedicated stereo speakers positioned on both sides of the living room. 

The soundbar’s sound presets and three “AMBEO” 3D sound modes also made for some interesting listening experimentation, where none of the settings really sounded bad, just different. The presets—Movies, Music, News, Sports, and Neutral—are guidelines for the material you’re hearing, but I tended to prefer the dynamic and vibrant spread of the Music preset even for Movies. However, the Movies setting did tend to emphasize dialogue more, which can be helpful during cacophonous action flicks. 

The Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max’s 3D modes are where the soundbar really shows off all of its immersive magic. They can be off or on in one of three settings: Light, Standard, and Boost, which determine the intensity of the soundbar’s ability to “upmix” a stereo sound into the illusion of surround. Movie and TV show audio seems to occupy a space from a few feet on either side of the soundbar and even a couple of feet above it due to the top-firing speakers. Different elements of music seem to dance across with audible width. While each setting has its merits, 3D sound is the name of the game here, so I’m fond of the Boost setting, which transformed familiar songs in interesting ways, digitally separating musical elements and stretching them across a tall, wide stage. However, if you’re used to hearing music in a certain way, Standard and Boost may sound somewhat unnatural.

A ’cast of characters

The built-in equalizer, which you can adjust through a companion iOS and Android app, let me crank up the bass for a little extra oomph and to find a personalized sound for my tastes. This is frankly a low-rated app for a number of reasons and the Android app on my Motorola G Stylus phone would not connect to the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max, even though it was recognized and working to Chromecast through the Google Home app. However, the iOS app on an iPad did connect and it was worth the hassle in the end to get the graphic equalizer and the easier toggling of AMBEO 3D sound modes. From the app, you can also power the AMBEO on/off, select its input source, and control the volume, although with a finicky touch slider that makes subtle adjustments not so easy. 

Sennheiser also offers Google Chromecasting through the AMBEO. Setting this up failed several times, but after some dizzying rounds of rebooting the soundbar and the phone, it did connect for successful Chromecasting over WiFi. However, Google Home noted, “This device [the AMBEO] is not optimized for casting,” and when Chromecasting from the phone, the volume was significantly quieter than when paired over Bluetooth. 

So, who should buy the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max?

When you want a strong, sumptuous sound for home theater viewing but also want the “simplicity” of an all-in-one soundbar, Sennheiser’s AMBEO Soundbar Max succeeds. Its mobile app-based functionality still could use some work, but that’s a minor component of the AMBEO setup. Not only would the Sennheiser soundbar be a surround-sound upgrade from TV speakers or other soundbars, but it can easily serve as the primary music speaker for any room in which you place it. There are many all-in-ones that cost less and take up less space, but for the best multidimensional soundbar experience without sacrificing fidelity, the Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max has set a high bar.

The post Sennheiser AMBEO Soundbar Max review: Reaching the upper Atmos-sphere appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Black Friday is still a month away, but that hasn’t stopped Sonos from offering a 20% discount on speaker bundles on its site and through select retailers from now until Oct. 29. Sonos’ speakers and soundbars were designed to work together, and these deals allow you to assemble a full, wireless home theater system in a couple of clicks. Many of these early Black Friday bundles include Sonos’ Era 100 and Era 300 speakers, which impressed us during our reviews.

Sonos Immersive Set with Beam $1,240 (Was $1,426)

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The Sonos Immersive Set is comprised of the second-generation Sonos Beam, Sub Mini, and a pair of Era 100 speakers, which when combined is a compact 5.1 surround sound system. The Beam offers a good sound for its size, which we found in our review, and typically retails for $500 on its own. The system connects to your TV via HDMI, but you can stream music to it wirelessly from Apple devices through AirPlay 2. As a bonus, this set comes with a free, three-month trial to Apple Music, which costs $11 per month.

Check out these other Sonos deals that are music to our ears:

• Sonos Entertainment Set with Beam, $742 (Was $928) (Best Buy)
• Sonos Premium Immersive Set with Arc, $1,756 (Was $2,196) (Best Buy)
• Sonos Entertainment Set with Ray, $566 (Was $708) (Best Buy)
• Sonos Ultimate Immersive Set with Arc, $2,211 (Was $2,596) (Best Buy)
• Sonos Premium Entertainment Set with Arc, $1,358 (Was $1,698) (Best Buy)

The post Save 20% on Sonos speaker bundles during its pre-Black Friday sale appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best sounding		Sonos Move		SEE IT	With both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, this pick will stay synced to your tunes wherever you go.
Best for outdoors		JBL Boombox 3		SEE IT	Play your favorite tracks all day without losing power—this waterproof pick has 24 hours of charge.
Best for parties		Bose S1 Pro		SEE IT	For booming audio and built-in sensors for optimal sound, this speaker is perfect for outdoor spaces and your next party.

A Bluetooth speaker is a great way to listen to the tunes you love anytime, anywhere, and without getting tangled up in an endless maze of cords. With easy portability and quick connectivity, good Bluetooth speakers can elevate any activity. Get better sound during an impromptu movie screening, bust out the backing vocals during a campfire sing-along, and put on the proper playlist for a backyard cookout or trip to the beach. All you need is a Bluetooth-compatible device—like a cellphone, computer, or tablet—and you’re in business. However, not all wireless speakers are created equal; you want to find something with great sound and a sleek design that will also last. We’ve narrowed down the competition to the best Bluetooth speakers so you can spend less time shopping and more time with your favorite playlists.

• Best overall: JBL Boombox 3
• Best ultra-portable: Marshall Emberton II
• Best party speaker: Bose S1 Pro
• Best waterproof: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3
• Best sounding: Sonos Move
• Best for Android: Sony SRS-XG300
• Best desktop: Edifier S1000W
• Best bookshelf: JBL 4305P
• Best budget: Tribit XSound Go Bluetooth Speaker

How we chose the best Bluetooth speakers

The PopSci writers and editors are serious music nerds. We scoured dozens of different options across many well-known brands to find models that best fit various needs and lifestyles. All the speakers on this list achieve a baseline level of sound quality that will do justice to any music you pump through them. We primarily focused on attainable models that blend value with performance but made sure to throw in some premium options for on-the-go audiophiles. Every speaker on the list is portable, though some may require more effort to move than others. Whichever model you pick, you can be confident that it can rock any party you show up at.

The best Bluetooth speakers: Reviews & Recommendations

As with any electronics, we recommend picking the most important aspect of the device for you and focusing on it. So, if you want optimal sound, pick something with serious audio chops. If you want something that will be ultra-tough, be willing to make some concessions when it comes to pure audio quality. If you’re realistic about your needs, you’ll have a better chance of getting a device that fits your life. Whether you’re looking for an extremely durable portable speaker or an extremely versatile stereo pair, however, our top picks for the best Bluetooth speakers deliver quality sound no matter your setup or budget.

Best overall: JBL Boombox 3

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Why it made the cut: Yes, it’s big, but it pumps out enormous sound, and the battery is truly prolific—lasting a full day on a single charge.

Specs

• Battery life: 24 hours
• Weight: 13 pounds
• IP Rating: IP67

Pros

• Loud
• Great battery life
• Slick look despite its size
• Solid connectivity

Cons

• Heavy
• Expensive

The JBL Boombox 3 has excellent sound quality and boasts 24 hours of battery life. The party quite literally never has to stop; in fact, you might have to stop well before the Boombox 2. It’s a great Bluetooth speaker to power a backyard jam or take a guaranteed party with you. With a convenient handle, an IP67 waterproof rating, and the ability to dual charge other devices, this JBL speaker will keep you going when you want to entertain (or listen to back-to-back podcasts all day). Thanks to the new three-way speaker design and 40 Hz – 20 kHz frequency response, thunderous lows come in seismic waves but with plenty of presence in the mids and highs to maintain sonic composure. Bluetooth 5.3 means the signal stays strong and stable, extending hundreds of feet in open air. With the Boombox 3, you can bring the club home … to your house and, with enough volume, your unsuspecting neighbors, too. Of course, all of that comes at a premium: $449 on average. Crave similar punch without the same price? The JBL Boombox 2 is still a great buy for at least $50 less on average.

Best ultra-portable: Marshall Emberton II

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Specs

• Battery life: 30 hours
• Weight: 1.5 pounds
• IP Rating: IP67

Pros

• Highly portable
• Excellent battery life
• Durable

Cons

• Controls take some getting used to

Marshall’s expansion from amps and other hardware used by iconic bands like AC/DC to consumer-level headphones and speakers has been pretty successful. Its speakers have become popular enough for the company to release revised versions of them, which includes the Emberton II, its latest take on a highly-portable mid-tier Bluetooth speaker. The Emberton II retains the iconic gold and black look of Marshall’s amps, with red LEDs showing its power state and battery life.

In our tests, the Emberton II sounds good for its size and price and, thankfully, wasn’t tuned exclusively for listening to rock music. There’re limitations to the amount of balance you can get from a backpack-friendly mono speaker, but we were pleased that Marshall managed to fit two 2-inch drivers inside instead of one. If you’re looking for a speaker that can sound pretty good when cranked up loud for a trip to the beach or backyard party, but is small enough to take with you while traveling on a plane, the Emberton II is the ideal choice.

While we don’t have any significant nits to pick with the sound, the Emberton II’s buttons can be a little annoying to navigate. There’s a standalone power button (thank goodness), but all of the speaker’s other controls: Play/pause, next track, previous track, volume up, volume down, require you to use the circular, golden controller on top of the speaker. It’s tough to know at a glance what moving the controller in any of these directions will do—there’re small glyphs, but they’re difficult to see and won’t be apparent to someone unfamiliar with the Emberton II.

We hope Marshall addresses that usability with the Emberton III. Still, our complaint wasn’t large enough to keep up from recommending this speaker, which excels at its most important job: playing music.

Best party speaker: Bose S1 Pro Portable Bluetooth Speaker System

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Why it made the cut: This Bluetooth party speaker cranks out huge volume while minimizing distortion.

Specs

• Battery life: 11 hours
• Weight: 15 pounds
• Meant for DJs and party pros

Pros

• Unmatched volume
• Excellent sound quality
• Durable

Cons

• Heavy
• Expensive

If you want the loudest Bluetooth speaker, the Bose S1 Pro will give you concert-level volume without sacrificing quality. This PA-inspired Bluetooth speaker is pretty impressive. There is some extra math to be done regarding maximum decibel output because high-end speakers usually have a range of wattage support that affects the sound output. However, the S1 Pro typically peaks at around 109 decibels. It features a 3-channel mixer, with options for reverb and EQ and a dedicated channel for other music sources. The speaker can last up to 11 hours with a QuickCharge function if you’re in a rush. Though it’s a little bigger (and several hundred more expensive) than other models, this speaker is still quite portable and extremely potent. With unparalleled sound quality, it’s truly perfect for parties and private concerts.

Best waterproof: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3

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Why it made the cut: Ultimate Ears has an impeccable talent for pumping out small, waterproof speakers that sound great. This little sound sphere is no exception. It’s awesome all around.

Specs

• Battery life: 13 hours
• Weight: 1 pound
• Bluetooth Range: 131 feet 
• IP Rating: IP67

Pros

• Great sound for its size
• Light
• Small
• Totally waterproof
• Attractive design

Cons

• Not as powerful as other models

The Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3 is one of the best waterproof Bluetooth speakers. If you are looking for a mini Bluetooth speaker that you can easily take with you on the go, look no further than this $99 wonder. The UE WONDERBOOM 3 comes in multiple fun two-tone colors with a flexible handle at the top that can easily be attached to a backpack, bike basket, or even a belt loop. This UE speaker also weighs less than 1 pound so that your speaker won’t drag you down while the sound lifts you up. The battery lasts a full 13 hours and produces amazing 360-degree sound coverage. With an IP67 rating, this Bluetooth speaker is waterproof, it even floats, and Ultimate Ears suggests trying it out in the shower. It’s small but mighty, measuring just four inches tall but packs a punch when it comes to volume, reaching up to 87 dB (almost concert-level loud).

Best-sounding: Sonos Move

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Why it made the cut: This portable speaker seamlessly ties into the Sonos wireless music system and pumps out excellent audio quality, making it one of the best-sounding Bluetooth speakers.

Specs

• Battery life: 11 hours
• Weight: 6.6 pounds
• Bluetooth Range: 300 feet 
• IP Rating: IP56

Pros

• Works with all other Sonos systems
• Fantastic sounds
• Automatically adjusts sound to its environment
• Burly

Cons

• Expensive
• Requires proprietary charging dock

The Sonos Move has a ton of options when it comes to connectivity. Known for its smart speakers, Sonos gear typically operates over Wi-Fi. It can instantly integrate into an existing multiroom Sonos speaker network, connect to Apple AirPlay, and use a built-in Alexa voice assistant that you can enable and disable as you like. But the Move is also capable of connecting to devices via Bluetooth, making it truly portable. It has up to 11 hours of battery life and a super sleek circular charging base. You can easily control all of the various services and settings like Sonos Radio, Alexa, Spotify, Apple Music, and more using the Sonos S2 singular app, making it easy to change things up at the drop of a hat. That’s a lot of options, though they come at a fair amount of dollars: $400 on average. Looking for a Sonos speaker that’s even more transportable and weather-resistant, while also more affordable? Check out the palm-sized IP67 Sonos Roam, which still sports many features and great fidelity but for less than $200.

Best for Android: Sony SRS-XG300

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Specs

• Battery life: 25 hours
• Weight: 6.6 pounds
• IP Rating: IP67

Pros

• Advanced-resolution codec support
• Portability for its size
• Loud sound

Cons

• Price

It should be no surprise that the best Bluetooth speaker we could find for Android has carried over from our best portable Bluetooth speakers. No speaker has come close to the audio quality, codec support, and aesthetics of the SRS-XG300, and we don’t believe in trying to fix what isn’t broken.

Sony has never shied away from making high-end audio hardware, and the SRS-XG300 is its latest premium portable Bluetooth speaker. After years of refining internal components, Sony gave its portable speakers a much-needed top-to-bottom redesign. The SRS-XG300 is a lot sleeker, with a mesh covering pleasing to the eye and a retractable handle that makes the relatively big speaker easier to carry. Indeed, carrying it from room to room or from the car to the beach never felt like a chore. Sony’s focus on building speakers with lights continues here, but they’re no longer a main focal point; LED rings surround the drivers on both sides of this speaker, but they never look garish. Plus, you can turn them off at the push of a button.

The SRS-XG300 is larger than most of our portable Bluetooth speaker recommendations, but the extra space comes with a couple of big benefits. This speaker lasts up to 25 hours per charge while delivering far better sound than smaller speakers. This was the best-sounding portable Bluetooth speaker I tested this year, with refined-sounding lows, mids, and treble without distortion at high volumes. Sibilance and other audio abnormalities were also absent, though this will always come down to how your music was recorded and mastered.

We can recommend the SRS-XG300 to anyone, but especially Android users whose devices support the LDAC codec. Without getting too into the weeds, devices that support this technology can play higher-resolution audio at a bitrate of 990kbps (kilobytes per second), which is approaching full CD quality (1,411kbps). For reference, aptX (a more commonly used audio codec) compresses audio to a rate of 352kbps. This difference doesn’t matter when you’re streaming music from Spotify (which streams at a maximum of 320kpbs), but it does if you’re subscribed to services such as Apple Music, Amazon Music, or TIDAL, which provide higher-resolution tiers that can take advantage of that LDAC bandwidth. These features come with a steep price tag, and the SRS-XG300’s most technically impressive feature is limited to folks with a handful of devices, which is why we couldn’t definitively label this the best-sounding Bluetooth speaker overall. If you care about audio quality, though, there’s no other portable Bluetooth speaker that deserves your consideration.

Best desktop: Edifier S1000W

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Specs

• Battery life: N/A
• Weight: 36.3 pounds
• IP Rating: N/A

Pros

• Classic look
• Balanced sound
• Multiple inputs

Cons

• Not portable
• Large

Edifier has slowly become one of our go-to audio companies because of its ability to cram a lot of performance into speakers that don’t cost a lot of money. The S1000Ws show off what Edifier is capable of when it’s less budget-constrained, and the result is wonderful. Computer speakers are typically pretty bad—laptops are too thin for premium audio hardware, PC towers have no speakers at all, and all-in-one PCs don’t fare much better. Apple is the exception here, but we wouldn’t recommend setting up a MacBook Pro for your next deep listen of Dark Side of the Moon or Midnights.

On the other hand, the S1000Ws are equipped with everything you could ask for from Bluetooth computer speakers for serious music listening or video watching. Each cabinet features a 5.5-inch woofer and 1-inch tweeter, and EQ knobs on the back allow you to fine-tune their bass and treble to your liking. We didn’t find that necessary in our tests, as music, podcasts, and videos all sounded crystal clear at all volume levels. There was no overblown bass creeping up and muddying the mids, or crunchy treble making us wince every time a cymbal was hit. Instead of reinventing the wheel, Edifier took what it learned from optimizing sound for budget audiences and expanded the speakers performance.

In our experience, setting up the S1000Ws only took about five minutes once we had them out of their box. All we had to do was connect the two speakers together with a thick connector cable, and plug one of the speakers into an outlet. To use Bluetooth, we hit the button on the speakers’ remote with the Bluetooth symbol. The S1000Ws went into pairing mode, and we were connected almost instantaneously. Suppose you want to listen to higher-fidelity music. In that case, you can connect these speakers to your computer using a Y-cable (also included) or wirelessly using AirPlay 2 if you’re using an Apple product. These speakers also feature optical audio and coaxial input if you want to use the S1000Ws as stereo speakers for your TV.

Many popular Bluetooth speakers are portable, but if you need a stereo pair on your desk for listening to music throughout the day, the Edifier’s S1000Ws are our choice. Their audio quality, connectivity options, and eye-catching appearance make them a triple threat in the best way possible.

Best bookshelf: JBL 4305P

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Specs

• Battery life: N/A
• Weight: 35.6 pounds
• IP Rating: N/A

Pros

• Plentiful analog and digital inputs
• Subwoofer output
• Intuitive user interface

Cons

• Size
• Price

If you need a Bluetooth speaker and balk and the idea of a budget, look no further than the JBL 4305P Studio Monitors, whose premium design is evident both inside and out. Inside each of the 4305P’s wooden cabinets are a custom-designed 5.25-inch woofer and 1-inch tweeter powered by a 300 Watt Class-D amplifier that splits its power between both speakers. Put plainly, the JBL 4305Ps are the speaker equivalent of a muscle car inside a well-crafted wood veneer cabinet.

Bluetooth 5.1 is provided, but it’s the loophole we’re using to include a pair of speakers that’s dear to our heart and a joy to our ears. What you’ll really want to take advantage of with this $2,200 pair of powered speakers is a veritable cornucopia of upscale connectivity options, which includes a pair of XLR inputs, an AUX input, an optical audio input (which could make them the best for TV if you’re not interested in spatial audio), a USB port, and an Ethernet jack, plus network support for AirPlay 2. JBL also built a Chromecast into these speakers, so you can send audio to them easily using an iOS or Android device. The two speakers can be connected using an Ethernet cable or Wi-Fi, which offers convenience at the cost of audio quality. Both connectivity methods allow you to stream high-resolution music to the 4305Ps, but Wi-Fi connectivity tops out at 24-bit / 96kHZ rather than 24-bit / 192kHZ.

Speakers in this price range can feel stuffy and for “audiophiles only,” but JBL managed to make the 4305Ps feel oddly approachable by fully supporting wireless audio in a classic aesthetic. We also like that the source knob on its primary speaker is clearly labeled, and a series of LEDs and glyphs on top allows you to see which input is selected. Most people aren’t going to need the power of JBL’s 4305Ps. Still, these aspirational home speakers prove that serious audio companies can build Bluetooth into some of their most premium-powered speakers. These speakers bust the myth that you must choose between wireless audio and premium sound.

Best budget: Tribit XSound Go Bluetooth Speaker

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Why it made the cut: Our pick for the best small Bluetooth speaker, the Tribit XSound Go brings excellent sound quality and battery life for a very small amount of money.

Specs

• Battery life: 24 hours
• Weight: 13 ounces
• IP Rating: IPX7

Pros

• Cheap
• Long battery life
• Solid sound for the price

Cons

• Other speakers sound better

Tribit’s XSound speaker is designed to withstand drops, dust, dips, and dents. The overall sound quality isn’t as crisp as a higher-end speaker, but you won’t have to worry about damage during an outdoor trip or toddler encounter. It is IPX7 waterproof in up to 3 feet of water for 30 minutes and has a Bluetooth range of up to 100 feet. The battery lasts up to 24 hours, so it’s perfect for outdoor activities like hiking, fishing, and cycling. It also has an attached strap to take your music on the go. It has improved sound quality and connectivity over the previous model, which was already an excellent value for its price, making it the best cheap Bluetooth speaker.

Things to consider when choosing the best Bluetooth speaker

Sound quality

Larger Bluetooth speakers tend to offer more volume and generally better sound quality. It’s hard to get great sound out of tiny drivers (for more on that, check out our primer on what makes up a speaker). Some smaller speakers, like the Ultimate Ears models, typically punch above their weight when it comes to pure quality, so find a balance between fidelity and utility.

Bluetooth range

Most modern Bluetooth speakers have a connectivity range between 66 and 100 feet, but some can stay connected up to 300 feet. If you plan to cover a big area, it’s worth ensuring you get the maximum range you can find.

Battery life

If you opt for a portable Bluetooth speaker, battery life often coincides with its overall size. Small speakers don’t have much power, but they also don’t have much room inside for battery capacity. Some offer as little as eight hours, while others can promise up to 24 hours on a charge and beyond. Even if you’re not planning to rock out for 24 hours at a time, more battery capacity allows you multiple listening sessions without having to get back on the charger. It’s also worth noting that those estimates are just that. To truly max out battery life, you must keep the volume lower than 50% and other environmental conditions like temperature ideal.

Ruggedness

Some battery-powered Bluetooth speakers are tougher than others. You can determine that durability based on the Ingress Protection (IP) code. If you want a truly tough model, check for an IPX7 rating, which means it can work while fully submerged underwater. IPX6 is still good, but not quite as good. Most portable speakers are fairly rugged, but it’s worth spending a little extra to get something that will last.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best Bluetooth speakers

• Best overall: JBL Boombox 3
• Best ultra-portable: Marshall Emberton II
• Best party speaker: Bose S1 Pro
• Best waterproof: Ultimate Ears WONDERBOOM 3
• Best sounding: Sonos Move
• Best for Android: Sony SRS-XG300
• Best desktop: Edifier S1000W
• Best bookshelf: JBL 4305P
• Best budget: Tribit XSound Go Bluetooth Speaker

The best Bluetooth speaker is well within the realm of possibility if you take into consideration where you want to groove, how long you want to dance the night away without charging, how crisp and clear you need your audio to be, and when you’ll want to take it on the go. We recommend starting with our favorite speakers and best picks to begin building your new, portable sound system. Load up your favorite playlists, gather your friends, and get ready to rock out with one of the best wireless speakers.

The post The best Bluetooth speakers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall		Marantz Cinema 70S		SEE IT	Perfect for a multidimensional, multi-room system.
Best gaming		Sony STR-AN1000		SEE IT	4K 120Hz video and Dolby Atmos support in a PlayStation-perfect package.
Best budget		Denon AVR-S570BT		SEE IT	5.1 surround capabilities for just under $350.

If you’re setting up a home theater, a killer game rig, or even a multiroom music system, an AV receiver (AVR) is necessary for tying it all together. It can function as your system’s hub, accepting, decoding, and routing various audio sources and formats, passing through HDMI signals, and providing connection and amplification for all your speakers. In the alphabet-soup world of home entertainment technology, figuring out which AVR is right for you isn’t easy. We aim to inform and demystify your shopping experience by recommending the best AV receivers in various price ranges and for different applications.

• Best overall: Marantz Cinema 70S 
• Best 4K under $500: Yamaha RX-4VA 
• Best 7.2: Denon AVR-X2800H
• Best for home theater: Arcam AVR31 
• Best for gaming: Sony STR-AN1000
• Best low profile: Marantz NR1711 
• Best budget: Denon AVR-S570BT

How we chose the best AV receivers 

We considered dozens of the best AV receivers and amplifiers for this story and focus on those that offer overall excellence in their price range. We also wanted to present products that excel for specific applications, such as gaming or audiophile music listening or multichannel surround sound. All our recommended units are made by solid, reputable companies and should give you years of excellent performance. The PopSci writers and editors have decades of combined experience writing about technology and home theater gear. These recommendations are a mixture of first-hand experience, spec comparisons, user impressions, peer recommendations, and scouring critical AV receiver reviews. 

The best AV receivers: Reviews & Recommendations

The best AV receivers integrate the various components of your home theater and music system. Most offer optical and analog (RCA) inputs in addition to their HDMI ports. That way, AVRs can incorporate digital sources like Blu-ray players, streaming devices, game consoles, smart TVs, analog turntables (although you might need a phono preamp), or older CD or DVD players. AVRs receive audio over the internet (some by WiFi and others Ethernet) and via Bluetooth from your mobile devices; many can provide wireless multiroom audio. A home theater with a music system and maybe a gaming system would be unmanageable without an AV receiver as its nerve center. You can assume that each AVR we mention includes a remote control and a setup/calibration system.

Best overall: Marantz Cinema 70S 

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Why it made the cut: Get it for the Marantz sound quality and enough channels for true Dolby Atmos.

Specs

• Channels: 7.2
• Power: 50W per channel (into 8 Ohms, THD: 0.07%, 2-ch driven)
• HDMI ports: 6in/1 out
• Highest Video Supported: 8K    

Pros

• High-quality Marantz audio
• Dolby Atmos and DTS:X, both hardwired and virtual.
• Built-in HEOS

Cons 

• Remote lacks backlight

Marantz’s 70S packs the performance of a full-sized AV receiver into a package compact enough to fit in most media centers. It supports Dolby Atmos audio, can pass through Dolby Vision video at 8K, and even has a built-in phono preamp.

In our tests, the Cinema 70S was surprisingly simple to set up. We plugged in our Q Acoustics 3020i bookshelf speakers and Q Acoustics 3050i towers, connected the receiver to a Sony OLED 55-inch BRAVIA XR A80L Series 4K Ultra HD TV using an HDMI cable, and followed the on-screen instructions, which walked us through testing each speaker to ensure it was connected correctly. We could also connect the receiver to our WiFi network using a pair of included antennas, enabling the ability to stream media from Apple devices using AirPlay 2. There’s also a built-in Ethernet port if you’d prefer to hardwire your setup completely. Within 15 minutes of unboxing the sleek but substantial feeling receiver, we were up and running.

We filled most of the Cinema 70S’ HDMI inputs with all three current-generation game consoles, the latest Apple TV 4K, and connected a Denon DCD-900NE CD player to one set of its RCA inputs. We had no problem using the Apple TV to stream Dolby Atmos tracks, playing Xbox Series X games like Diablo IV with Dolby Vision enabled, and enjoying every bit—pardon the pun—of our CD collection through Denon’s latest player. There were no ticks or dropouts during our hours of playing and listening, either.

Devices connected to the Cinema 70S over HDMI have the ability to wake the receiver and TV using their respective remotes, which makes jumping into a game or using the Apple TV to stream media more convenient. The receiver always recognized when a device was turned on and automatically switched to the correct input. We could tell this was true because the receiver would show the connected device’s name (and its current volume level) on the tiny screen built into its circular portal-like screen.

Overall, we were incredibly pleased with how well Marantz’s Cinema 70S performed under several circumstances, and its variety (and quantity) of inputs mean it’ll likely be your one-stop shop for both analog and digital music listening and video watching. Some nice-to-have features (like backlit buttons on its remote) were missing, but the core functionality far exceeded our expectations, especially given its incredibly reasonable size.

Best 4K under $500: Yamaha RX-4VA 

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Why it made the cut: It offers a surprisingly rich feature set for the money if you don’t need every bell and whistle.

Specs

• Channels: 5.2
• Power: 80W per channel (into 6 ohms, 0.06% THD)
• HDMI ports: 4 in/1 out
• Highest video supported: 4K currently, 8K upgrade via firmware available soon

Pros 

• Affordable price for a surround-capable receiver
• Supports multiple video and music formats
• Will support 8K and VRR, QMS, ALLM and QFT with a future firmware update

Cons

• Requires (free) HDMI board replacement for 4K/120Hz gaming
• No Dolby Atmos height virtualization or DTS Virtual:X support
• No phono input

This 5.2-channel unit makes a solid centerpiece for home theater, gaming, and music listening. With four HDMI 2.1 inputs and an eARC output—along with optical, coaxial, and analog RCA inputs (but no phono inputs for a turntable)—it’s compatible with a wide range of gear. The unit supports Dolby and DTS surround sound decoding, streaming via WiFi, Apple AirPlay 2, and Spotify Connect, and can be voice-controlled with Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant. 

The RX-4VA comes with Yamaha’s MusicCast multiroom system (minus the speakers, of course), allowing you to connect with other compatible Yamaha components wirelessly. A USB port lets you play music from an external storage device. 

On the negative side, the RX-4VA doesn’t support virtualized Dolby Atmos or DTS Virtual:X. It’s also one of the receivers whose chipset has an HDMI 2.1 bug that cannot handle 4K/120Hz gaming for Xbox Series X or NVIDIA RTX30. Fortunately, Yamaha offers a free HDMI board update program to fix it. Although it supports HDMI 2.1, it doesn’t support 8K out of the box. However, Yamaha will soon offer a firmware update that will add 8K capabilities as well as VRR (Variable Refresh Rate), ALLM (Auto Low-Latency Mode), QMS (Quick Media Switching), and QFT (Quick Frame Transport), which are HDMI 2.1 features designed to enhance gaming. Together, this makes it a top-value 4K AV receiver that retails for $599 but is typically offered under $500 and is future-proofed for when 8K flatscreens come down to a more approachable price.

Best 7.2: Denon AVR-X2800H

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Why it made the cut: This mid-priced AVR has a full feature set and is ready for the future.

Specs

• Channels: 7.2
• Power: 95W per channel (into 8 ohms, THD: 0.08%)
• HDMI ports: 6 in /2 out
• Highest video supported: 8K     

Pros 

• Broad multichannel format support
• Lots of connectivity options
• 8K video pass-through

Cons

• Dirac support requires jumping up to a higher-priced model

Surround sound used to be synonymous with 5.1 speaker configurations, but the advent of Dolby Atmos and other “3D” audio formats have helped usher in the era of 7.2 systems. Denon’s AVR-X2800H is well-equipped for this job, serving up a solid 90W of power per channel and supporting Dolby Atmos, Atmos Height Virtualization, DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X surround audio formats. 

Virtual surround sound formats will never be able to usurp or equal the experience of additional physical speakers, but they’re nice to have as you build your setup. Beyond HDMI ports, the AVR-X2800H is stacked with RCA, optical audio, and coaxial inputs. There’s even a built-in phono preamp if you plan on hooking up your turntable to the receiver.

Audio is important when selecting the right AV receiver, but it’s only one-half of the equation. The AVR-X2800H also delivers on the “V” side of things by passing through 8K/60Hz or 4K/120Hz video and supporting the latest HDR formats, including Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and HLG. If you plug in a game console or 4K Blu-Ray player, you will like what you see and hear.

On the wireless connectivity front, the AVR-X2800H stacks up well, too. It supports Apple’s AirPlay, Bluetooth, HEOS, and can be integrated into Apple HomeKit or Google Assistant smart home ecosystems. It feels like the only protocol this receiver doesn’t support is Dirac Live, an optional piece of software that continuously analyzes your room to adjust and optimize your speakers’ output. If that sounds appealing, you’ll need to jump up to Denon’s AVR-X3800H, a 9.4-channel stereo receiver that’s even more immersive (but also pricier).

If you’re looking to expand your surround sound system beyond five channels and a single subwoofer, Denon’s AVR-X2800H should be your first choice.

Best for home theater: Arcam AVR31 

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Why it made the cut: It can process up to 16 channels of multichannel audio.

Specs

• Channels: 7.2
• Power: 120W per channel (into 8 ohms at 0.02% THD, 2-ch driven)
• HDMI ports: 7in/3 out (HDMI 2.1)
• Highest Video Supported: 8K

Pros

• 16 channels of processing
• Broad multichannel format support
• Dirac Live room correction tailors the sound to your room’s acoustics (microphone included)
• Class G amplification provides excellent sound  
• Spotify Connect, TIDAL Connect, MQA, and Roon support

Cons

• No phono input for turntable two-channel use
• Price

Arcam’s high-end AV receiver offers seven Class G amplification channels, offering better efficiency than the typical Class B or AB designs. It also can process 16 channels simultaneously. Using its preamp-outs to feed an additional power amp, you could configure a 15.2 system. The AVR31 has Dirac Live room correction and a measurement mic to calibrate all those speakers correctly. 

Moreover, it offers broad support of multichannel audio formats: Dolby Atmos, TrueHD, Digital Plus, DTS:X (but not DTS:X Pro), IMAX Enhanced, and Auro 3D. From an HDMI standpoint, it offers seven in and three out, including one eARC output. All HDMI is 2.1, supporting 4K/120Hz and 8K/60Hz signals (but no VRR/ALLM). HDCP 2.3 technology and Dolby Vision, HDR10, HDR10+, and HLG support even ensure compatibility with 4K and 8K Ultra HD sources and TVs. But there isn’t really 8K content to concern yourself with, so if your goal is a pure signal path and clean power that can convey any soundtrack’s every nuance, you’ll get what you pay for (and you’ll pay around $5,500 on average).

Unlike Arcam’s previous generation, the AVR31 has Bluetooth Audio w/ aptX HD, WiFi, Apple AirPlay 2, Google Chromecast support, and an FM tuner. You’ll need a phono preamp to connect a turntable. But overall, if you’re looking to set up a massive multichannel system in a dedicated home theater, especially if you’re installing numerous wall-mountable speakers, etc., the AVR31 makes an outstanding central hub to build around.

More interested in the A rather than the V when it comes to an AVR? If streaming music is your primary pursuit, ARCAM recently unveiled the Radio Series, featuring two-channel integrated amplifiers that can receive audio from every source imaginable except HDMI.

Best for gaming: Sony STR-AN1000

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Specs

• Channels: 7.2
• Power: 165W per channel (into 8 ohms, with 0.9 % THD, 1-ch driven)
• HDMI ports: 6in/2out (eARC)
• Highest Video Supported: 8K

Pros

• Supports 4K video output at 120Hz
• Compatible with Dolby Vision, Hybrid Log Gamma and IMAX Enhanced High Dynamic Range
• Works with Dolby Atmos, DTS:X, DTS Virtual: X, and DTS X Pro surround formats

Cons

• No tuner or phono inputs

While many people now associate Sony strongly with the PlayStation 5, the company has a long history in personal audio (well before we could afford AV receivers, we couldn’t live without our Walkman, hello). And its STR-AN1000 is a slam dunk regardless of your preferred next-gen. gaming console. Its most important feature is its ability to pass 4K video at 120Hz courtesy of its HDMI 2.1 ports, which allows you to play games at up to 120 frames per second. Most games still top out at 60 frames per second for technical reasons, but cutting-edge titles that push the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X to their limits can take advantage of it.

Similarly, the receiver can pass through Dolby Vision HDR video, the high dynamic range format supported by the latest consoles. The STR-AN1000 can also pass through 8K video at 60 frames per second, which gives you a nice cushion when it comes to future-proofing your setup alongside a Mini-LED 8K TV. Visuals are the most important factor to consider when choosing an AV receiver specifically for gaming, but that doesn’t mean audio doesn’t count.

Both the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X have titles with a Dolby Atmos mix, and other surround sound formats have been commonplace in games for a couple of console generations. The STR-AN1000 supports all major surround sound formats and can be connected to seven sets of speakers and a pair of subwoofers. You’re covered if you have the space for a 7.2 speaker setup for your gaming rig.

Some of this AV receiver’s shortcomings, like the lack of a radio tuner and phono input, are forgivable, given its eye toward the future. Support for wireless streaming protocols like Apple’s AirPlay 2 and Google’s Chromecast, compatibility with Sonos’ hardware ecosystem, and the ability to control the receiver using a Google Home-compatible speaker more than make up for it.

The STR-AN1000 is an excellent AV receiver whether you’re playing the latest games, or using your console for video streaming or 4K Blu-Ray playback. And if you decide you want more connectivity and current at the heart of your system and you have the expanded budget to match, a January 2023 press event unveiled additional top-tier contenders for AVR receiver of the year.

Best low profile: Marantz NR1711 

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Why it made the cut: The half-size frame and full feature set will appeal to anyone with a space-limited home theater setup.

Specs

• Channels: 7.2
• Power: 50W per channel (into 8 ohms, with 0.08 % THD, 2-ch driven)
• HDMI ports: 6in/1out (eARC)
• Highest Video Supported: 8K

Pros

• Slimline form factor saves space
• 8K support provides future-proofing
• Comprehensive implementation of Dolby and DTS multichannel formats

Cons

• Only 50W per channel

The NR1711 is a diminutive 3.5 inches in height, about half that of the typical AVR. Yet somehow, Marantz was able to engineer it with a competitive feature set for its $800 price range. Because of its half-sized housing, Marantz had to scale down the amplifier size, so its power output is only 50W per channel. But unless you’re setting it up in a large room, it should still give you plenty of oomph. 

Gamers short on space will appreciate the NR1711’s “Slimline” form factor. They’ll also love its 8K support, which will serve them well for the next generation of gaming consoles like the PS5 and Xbox Series X. Home theater buffs will appreciate the impressive list of surround formats supported by the NR1711, such as Dolby Atmos, Dolby Speaker Virtualizer, Dolby Digital Plus, and Dolby Surround. DTS is also well represented with DTS:X, DTS Virtual:X, DTS Neural:X, and DTS Digital Surround, to name just some. 

You can set up and calibrate your system with built-in Audyssey MultiEQ, Dynamic EQ, and Dynamic Volume processors. If you want to spin some vinyl, the NR1711 sports phono inputs alongside its other analog I/O. Additional goodies include Bluetooth, WiFi support, AirPlay 2, HEOS, and Alexa support.

Best budget: Denon AVR-S570BT

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Why it made the cut: It offers a low-cost path into the surround-sound world.

Specs

• Channels: 5.2
• Power: 70W per channel RMS at 8 ohms, 0.07 percent THD, two channels driven.          
• HDMI ports: 4in/1out (ARC)
• Highest video Supported: 8K HDR pass-through

Pros 

• Low price for a 5.2-compatible AV Receiver
• 8K video pass-through and Dolby Vision support
• Quality sonics

Cons

• No Atmos support

The Denon AVR-S570BT is an entry-level AVR that can handle Ultra-HD content such as 4K Blu-ray and HDR video, and play audio encoded in most of the latest surround sound formats. It lacks Dolby Atmos support, which will be a sticking point if you’re living on the cutting edge, but beyond that, it’s remarkably capable.

Its most impressive feature is its 8K video pass-through capability, which comes courtesy of HDMI 2.1 ports. It also impresses on the video side by supporting 4K video pass-through at 120Hz and Dolby Vision HDR, which is the format used for the latest video games and 4K video releases. Ultimately, anyone on a budget will find a lot to like about this receiver.

We mentioned the AVR-S570BT’s only audio fault earlier, but its lack of Atmos support isn’t a big deal, given the receiver’s price. It does support Dolby TrueHD and DTS-HD, so any game or film soundtrack with a 5.1 surround sound mix will sound correct. The AVR-S570BT is also compatible with Apple’s AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth for wireless music streaming.

Overall, if you’re not trying to keep up with the latest and greatest but want to watch movies or play games in 5.1 surround sound, the Denon AVR-S570BT will get you there for less without sacrificing very much.

What to consider when shopping for the best AV receivers

You have many variables to consider with a product as complex as an AVR. Some essential questions include: Can it support what I have (or want to have) in my system? How many HDMI inputs do I need to cover all my gear and have at least one leftover for expansion? Does it support the main surround format I plan to use? Does it deliver enough power per channel to give me plenty of distortion-free volume, given the size of my room? Does it offer 8K support so that I’m future-proofed? Does it have phono inputs for my turntable? Do I need to match my speakers to an AVR? The best AV receivers cover a pretty extensive range of features and prices. Look for the one that will best meet the needs of your current or planned home theater setup.

Is 8K video capability important in an AV receiver?

Right now, 8K isn’t necessary because there’s precious little 8K content available, even if you have an 8K TV. But that will likely change in the next couple of years, and if it’s important for you to watch shows and movies or play games with the best quality available, you’ll need a receiver that supports it. Fortunately, most of the products that we recommend in this article do.

How many channels do I need if I want a receiver that supports Dolby Atmos?

Atmos is a pretty “hot” format now, offering the dimension of height and the traditional directionality of surround sound to create an even more immersive sonic environment. Many movies now offer Atmos mixes, which can be spectacular. Atmos systems require a receiver with seven channels at the minimum for a hardwired system, consisting of a 5.1 speaker setup with two additional Atmos ceiling-mounted speakers. If you don’t want to mount speakers in the ceiling, you could get Atmos-enabled speakers that fire forward and upward. The latter bounces the sound off your ceiling to simulate having speakers up there. (And don’t forget the speaker wire!)

Another option is an Atmos-enabled soundbar, like the Sennheiser AMBEO or the Sony HT-A7000. Such products create an Atmos-like effect from one multi-speaker device. Finally, several receivers in this roundup support Virtualized Atmos, which simulates Atmos from whatever speaker configuration you have. The soundbar and the virtualized Atmos won’t compare to hardware-based Atmos systems, but you do get some of the effects, and it’s a lot less money. DTS:X is a competitor to Atmos and gives you a similar immersive effect. It also has a simulated version, DTS Virtual:X. Again, it would be best to have a receiver or soundbar that supports it.

HDMI input and output

On the HDMI outputs on AVRs, you’ll see the letters ARC or eARC. ARC stands for Audio Return Channel and eARC (Enhanced Audio Return Channel), introduced with HDMI 2.1. Both ARC and eARC allow bidirectional audio. With the emergence of smart TVs, which stream content from the internet, you need a way to get the audio from that content out of your TV and into your AVR or soundbar so that it gets amplified and routed to speakers. If you have eARC, it supports up to 24-bit/192kHz audio, as well as uncompressed audio from 5.1 and 7.1 surround content. In addition, it works with compressed formats like Dolby Atmos and DTS-HD Master Audio coming from your TV. And don’t forget the HDMI cables!

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best AV receivers

• Best overall: Marantz Cinema 70S 
• Best 4K under $500: Yamaha RX-4VA 
• Best 7.2: Denon AVR-X2800H
• Best for home theater: Arcam AVR31 
• Best for gaming: Sony STR-AN1000
• Best low profile: Marantz NR1711 
• Best budget: Denon AVR-S570BT

As you may have noticed from our roundup, there are a lot of choices and a wide range of prices in the AVR market. To decide which is right for you, you need to consider the price and the kind of system you’re trying to create. Do you want to move from 5.1 to a more complex multichannel format, like a 7.1 or an Atmos system? Will you also have to upgrade your TV and speaker system to achieve your goals? Because AV receivers are multifaceted and encompass or support so many technologies, it helps to be as informed as possible when deciding which one to buy. In this article, we’ve offered you a diverse range of products and information. However, you still have plenty of issues to consider regarding the specifics of your system, the space you’re putting it in, and your goals for the system before you can choose which of the best AV receivers is best for your needs.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best AV receivers in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

Best overall		Sony ICD-UX470 Digital Voice Recorder		SEE IT	This compact recorder has a retractable USB-A plug for easy data transfer.
Best digital		Zoom H1n Portable Recorder		SEE IT	The H1n records wide stereo audio and can handle high sound pressure levels.
Best budget		Akaluli Digital Voice Recorder		SEE IT	This is a simple and easy-to-use recorder hidden inside a standard ballpoint pen.

Voice recorders are convenient and portable tools. They can document lectures, interviews, conversations, and any other environmental audio you may want to listen back to later. Unlike magnetic tape designs of yesteryear, today’s voice recorders record to internal flash media or SD cards to deliver better file organization and compatibility with computers. Voice recorders range widely in terms of audio quality; some designs are capable of recording wide stereo sound at high bitrates, while others excel at capturing compressed audio and speech alone. Knowing the difference can profoundly affect your listening experience. If you’re looking for a quick solution for capturing audio on the go, the best voice recorders will have your back and make sure you don’t miss a single detail.

• Best overall: Sony ICD-PX470 Digital Voice Recorder
• Best digital: Zoom H1n Portable Recorder
• Best voice-activated: EVISTR 32GB Digital Voice Recorder
• Best for street interviews: Blast Mic
• Best long-distance recording: Dictopro X100 Voice Recorder
• Best for students: Sony ICD-UX570 Digital Voice Recorder
• Best for audio pros: Zoom H6 All Black Recorder
• Best budget: Akaluli Digital Voice Recorder

How we chose the best voice recorders

Since they’re often used for capturing live discussions, interviews, and lectures in critical scenarios with the intent to review and playback, we selected the best voice recorders with quick startup time and an easy-to-use interface. 

Most of our picks can record with the single press of a button, ensuring you don’t miss out on any details when capturing audio. We also aimed to include voice recorders that are small and portable, which is an important design consideration that helps users travel light and draws less attention to the fact that they’re recording in the first place. 

The most compact picks on our list tend to record lower-quality files, while relatively bulkier ones can record high-fidelity audio. In making sure the entire spectrum of audio quality is represented, this list can accommodate everything from the most casual recording applications to critical production situations.

The best voice records: Reviews & Recommendations

Voice recorders are fairly simple devices that consist of microphones, recording controls, playback, and file storage systems. In a pinch, there’s one built-in (or available to download) in every modern smartphone. But the best voice recorders are set apart by portability, quality of recording, and ease of use, saving users time and allowing them to focus on the conversation or lecture at hand.

Best overall: Sony ICD-UX470 Digital Voice Recorder

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Why it made the cut: Expandable storage and quick-charging features make this pocket-sized recorder a good option for frequent use on short notice.

Specs

• Memory: Up to 32 GB
• Weight: 6.4 ounces
• Recording format: WAV, MP3, WMA, M4A

Pros

• Built-in USB; no cable required
• MicroSD slot for expandability, plus 4 gigabytes of built-in memory
• 55 hours of battery

Cons

• Requires AAA batteries

This compact voice recorder from Sony features automatic file organization and a handy selection of onboard controls. The design makes it the best voice recorder for interviews. Key among its front-panel buttons are two playback navigation buttons. One fast-forwards 10 seconds, and the other rewinds three seconds. This functionality, combined with the unit’s automatic file labeling system, allows users to review recordings quickly and efficiently, making this a good tool for transcribing interviews and other spoken-word recordings.

Other standout features of this design include a headphone jack for playback and a 55-hour battery life. Unfortunately, you’ll need to keep a set of AAA batteries around since the recorder doesn’t have an internal one (we suggest rechargeable batteries). The external microphone input appeals to users who want more control over their recordings. When using the unit’s onboard stereo microphones, users can toggle between normal stereo, wide-field, and focused recording modes. When it’s time to transfer files to the computer, this voice recorder has its own USB connector that pops out and retracts with a simple switch.

Best digital: Zoom H1n Portable Recorder

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Why it made the cut: The H1n is a rugged portable recorder built by an industry-leading audio company that features easy controls and 90-degree stereo recording.

Specs

• Memory: Up to 32 GB
• Weight: 2.4 ounces
• Recording format: WAV, MP3

Pros

• High SPL limit for recording loud sources like concerts
• Built-in microphone cage
• Wide 90-degree stereo recording
• Records to SD card for flexibility

Cons

• Requires AAA batteries
• Plastic construction can be noisy when handling

Zoom portable recorders are well-known in the audio and video production industry as a great option for capturing audio on-site at events due to their relatively high durability and sound quality. The H1n aims to pack this reputation into a compact and affordable digital recorder that can be used for a wide variety of purposes from concerts and musical sampling to interview and lecture recording. Because it has a high volume limit and records in resolutions of up to 24-bit/96 kHz, this is the best digital voice recorder to consider if sound quality is your primary concern.

Design-wise, the H1n has a relatively streamlined user interface and a monochrome display that is controllable via a series of buttons on the front panel. It has one-touch recording and automatic distortion prevention, which are key features that help this recorder excel in settings where setup time is limited or non-existent. 

Its array of two condenser microphones record in a fixed X/Y stereo configuration, allowing users to pick up a wide field of audio without any adjustment required, and these microphones are protected within a cage that’s integrated into the body of the recorder.

The H1n’s plastic construction allows it to be portable and lightweight. Ideally, the H1n should be mounted on a stand using its built-in threaded mount, but if you need to operate it in handheld mode, consider wrapping the body in a microfiber cloth or other dampening material. The H1n also uses traditional AAA batteries, which can feel slightly inconvenient and antiquated in terms of portability (and don’t forget to hold onto used ones to dispose of them properly). Still, it does prevent the need to stop and charge up when the battery runs out. That’s another reason pros like it.

Best voice-activated: EVISTR 32GB Digital Voice Recorder

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Why it made the cut: The combination of voice activation, built-in storage, audio file support, and audio quality, all packed into a tiny form factor made this recorder a top pick.

Specs

• Memory: 32 GB
• Weight: 5.9 ounces
• Recording format: MP3 and WAV

Pros

• Records high-quality audio
• 32 GB of internal storage
• Compact design fits easily into your pocket
• 12-hour battery life

Cons

• Small size means small screen
• No mic jack

Despite its compact form factor, the EVISTR 16GB Digital Voice Recorder offers a large amount of recording features and the best overall value. As mentioned, the EVISTR Voice Recorder is small—small enough to comfortably fit inside your pocket, in fact. Its audio quality, on the other hand, is anything but small. It’s voice-activated, and even in noisy settings, the sound quality is clear and intelligible, with little background noise. In a quieter environment, like a classroom, recordings absolutely shine. Similarly, the EVISTR Voice Recorder comes with 16GB of internal storage, which, again, is a fairly large amount considering the recorder’s size.

In terms of functionality, the EVISTR Voice Recorder features an intuitive and easy-to-use interface that makes operating it a breeze. All of the expected recording and playback features are included, as well as some more advanced features like a voice-activated recording mode and “dynamic noise cancellation.”

The one drawback to the EVISTR 16GB Digital Voice Recorder might be its lack of a microphone jack. However, that likely won’t be an issue for most users and definitely doesn’t compromise the recorder’s tremendous overall value.

Best for street interviews: Blast Mic

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Why it made the cut: Unlimited cloud storage and eight hours of battery life give you plenty of time to channel your inner Narduar or Billy Eichner.

Specs

• Memory: Uses smartphone storage
• Weight: 4.9 ounces
• Recording format: WAV

Pros

• Lightweight
• Can be put on a tripod
• Lossless recording

Cons

• Plosives happen easily without included pop filter

Street interviews are some of the most popular TikToks on the platform. If you’re looking for a wireless way to record high-quality audio, look to the Blast Mic. All you need to get started is a WiFi connection and the Blast Radio mobile app. After you’re done taking the streets asking hard-hitting questions like “name a woman for $1,” your audio will be uploaded to your Blast Radio channel. You can keep it on your channel, or you can record audio right on the mic to download, edit, and export later. You get a lossless WAV file, which means the final product will sound pristine and crystal clear. Sorry, tiny mic—your days might be over, thanks to the Blast Mic.

Best for long-distance recording: Dictopro X100 Voice Recorder

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Why it made the cut: With two ultra-sensitive mics that can capture high-quality audio from 40 feet away, the Dictopro X100 Voice Recorder is an ideal solution for anyone who needs to do some long-distance recording.

Specs

• Memory: 8 GB
• Weight: 2.47 ounces
• Recording format: MP3, WAV

Pros

• Ultra-sensitive mics capture audio from up to 40 feet away
• Voice-activated recording
• 8GB of internal storage
• Sleek design with color LCD display

Cons

• Not always intuitive controls
• No microSD card support

The Dictropro X100 is a very stylish, pocket-sized recorder that somehow manages to perform just as well as it looks. Two ultra-sensitive microphones with dynamic noise reduction allow the Dictopro X100 to record high-quality sound at distances up to 40 feet away, making this recorder especially useful for recordings captured from afar, such as in a lecture hall. You can record those files in either WAV or MP3 format.

Long-distance recording aside, the Dictopro X100 includes several other useful recording features, including a voice-activated function that allows you to record audio without pressing a button. Perhaps not as cool as voice-activated recording, but arguably even more useful is the Dictopro’s 8GB of internal storage, which supports up to 700 hours of recordings.

Additional features include a headphone and external mic port, the ability to function as an MP3 player, and even an alarm clock—something you rarely see in a handheld voice recorder. One feature that is missing, however, is a microSD card port, which means you’ll have to rely on the Dictopro’s 8GB of internal storage.

Best for students: Sony ICD-UX570 Digital Voice Recorder

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Why it made the cut: Pocket-sized portability, plenty of storage, and quick-charge features make this recorder a great recording solution for students and other users on the go.

Specs

• Memory: 4GB (internal); up to 64GB (microSD/microSDHC)
• Weight: 1.76 ounces
• Recording format: MP3, LPCM

Pros

• Three recording modes help capture audio in any setting
• 4GB of internal storage and microSD support
• Easy-to-read OLED display
• Fast-charging battery

Cons

• OLED display might be too bright for some users

The slim and sleek Sony ICD-UX570 Digital Voice Recorder offers several features that make it an excellent solution for students or those recording in a classroom setting. For example, the recorder’s stereo mics and three distinct recording modes—Normal, Focus, and Wide-stereo—allow users to capture sound naturally, regardless of whether they are in a small classroom or large lecture hall. In addition to its superior sound quality, the Sony ICD-UX570 Digital Voice Recorder also comes with 4GB of built-in storage, which is almost 160 hours of compressed audio. And when you’re ready to transfer your recorded audio, simply plug the Sony ICD-UX570 Digital Voice Recorder into any compatible device using the recorder’s built-in USB.

Other student-friendly features include the voice recorder’s compact build, which allows it to be carried to and from class easily, a bright OLED display, and a built-in rechargeable battery that can last up to 27 hours. That same battery also supports fast-charging tech, which yields up to 1 hour of recording time off of only a 3-minute charge.

Best for audio pros: Zoom H6 All Black Recorder

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Why it made the cut: The Zoom H6 All Black Recorder offers more professional-grade features than any other handheld recorder on the market and is an ideal recording solution for those looking to put some serious muscle behind their production.

Specs

• Memory: Up to 128 GB (microSD/microSDHC/microSDXC)
• Weight: 4.4 ounces
• Recording format: MP3, WAV

Pros

• Swappable X/Y stereo microphone capsule
• Four XLR/TRS mic/line level inputs
• Up to 20 hours of battery life
• Supports microSDXC cards up to 128GB

Cons

• Professional-level recorder means it is very costly

The Zoom H6 All Black Recorder is a professional-grade handheld recorder that features swappable stereo mic capsules, versatile six mic/line inputs, and support for up to 6-track recording—making it an ideal recording solution for podcasts, musicians, and content creators of every stripe and in any setting.

Despite an innumerable list of recording features, the H6 is incredibly user-friendly. Its front panel is arranged in such a way that it prioritizes the more essential controls, including the transport buttons and the gain control and pad selector for the XLR/TRS inputs. Operations are also made easier thanks to the H6’s full-color LCD display that is angled slightly to give users a constant clear view of the screen.

In terms of file format and quality, the H6 lets you record audio as WAV files up to 24-bit/96 kHz. You can track as MP3 files as well. The H6 records those files to any compatible SD card with up to 128 GB of storage.

The H6 All Black handheld recorder is definitely meant for professional setups, which is why it carries such a hefty price tag. The value is actually quite good when you consider the exhaustive list of features it includes, and it involves many less components than a typical mobile recording rig, but you’ll want to make certain you actually need those features before doling out the cash for this high-end recorder.

Best budget: Akaluli Digital Voice Recorder

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This voice recorder doubles as a pen, allowing users to jot down notes while reviewing their recordings—and it’s cheap.

Specs

• Memory: 32 GB
• Weight: 0.6 ounces
• Recording Format: WAV

Pros

• One-touch recording
• On-device playback
• Records high-quality files
• Real working pen

Cons

• Built-in storage is not expandable
• Can’t turn off onboard LEDs

When it comes to note-taking, it can be difficult and cumbersome to keep pace with speakers and lecturers whether you’re typing on a computer or writing in a notebook. This voice recorder for lectures from Akaluli looks like something straight out of a spy movie and aims to offer a streamlined note-taking process that covers all the bases. It’s a working ballpoint pen, but there’s a 32-gigabyte digital voice recorder inside. Users can begin recording audio of their surroundings with a single press of the top button, and the onboard memory can store roughly 400 hours of audio before requiring a file cleanup.

Compared to other best voice recorders, this unit excels at being discreet and easy to use. It’s literally a ballpoint pen, so it blends in with any office environment, and it offers convenient features like one-touch recording, automatic file organization, and automatic saving in the event of low battery. It comes with a USB cable as well as a small pair of earbuds, so users can enjoy full functionality right out of the box without the need to purchase extra items. 

If you anticipate needing a voice recorder with expandable storage, a pen recorder isn’t the best option. It’s limited to 32GB of built-in storage. This pen recorder also sports LED indicator lights for recording status and battery status, but these can’t be turned off at will, so some users may find them disruptive in dark environments.

What to consider when buying the best voice recorder

At their most basic, handheld voice records all perform the same basic function. To choose a handheld voice recorder that’s good for you, consider how you intend to use it. If you’re looking to record vocals for singing, consider one of the best microphones for vocals. In general, a good voice recorder should produce clear, intelligible audio, be easy to use, and be portable. Here is what you should know:

Audio quality

Manufacturers often save space on voice recorders by recording at lower bitrates and in compressed formats. This is usually fine for note-taking applications and transcription purposes, but if you want to use your recorded audio in a production setting, go with a voice recorder that records in high-quality formats like the Zoom H1n or the Sony ICD-UX570. Bear in mind that the higher the quality you’re recording, the faster you’ll run out of storage space.

Laws regarding recording conversations

In some states, you can’t just plop down a recorder and press “record” without getting consent from all parties involved. 38 states and D.C. have “one-party” consent requirements when recording phone calls or conversations. That means only one person—yourself included if you’re in the conversation—needs to consent to be recorded. The other 11 states—California, Delaware, Florida, Illinois, Maryland, Massachusetts, Montana, Nevada, New Hampshire, Pennsylvania, and Washington—require all-party consent, meaning everyone in the conversation has to agree to be recorded. Getting this consent is as simple as asking, “Can I record this conversation?” beforehand. If you really want to keep receipts, get confirmation to record in writing, or get verbal confirmation off the record (while the recorder is not running) and then confirm on the record (while the recorder is running) that they consented to being recorded. If you can’t remember all this, some lawyers went to school for this—and posted the nitty-gritty of these laws online—who you can reference.

Type of recording

The human voice occupies a specific frequency range, which is why certain technologies, including noise-canceling headphones and smartphone microphones are particularly good at separating it from background noise. If you’re recording speech primarily for note-taking purposes, consider a voice recorder like the SciTech Mini Digital Voice Activated Recorder that automatically enhances speech while ignoring background noise.

Capacity

Voice recorders with higher storage capacities are better suited for the unpredictable conditions of remote recording, whether you’re conducting interviews, recording concerts, or sampling environmental audio. If you’ll be using your voice recorder for sustained periods in offsite locations, consider a design that uses SD cards or other removable media to ensure that you don’t run out of space when you need it. The Zoom H1n is particularly good for this type of use, or you can opt for the Sony ICD-UX570, which has its own dedicated internal memory plus SD card compatibility.

Discreet form factor

If you’re looking to record audio without drawing attention to that fact, a traditional voice recorder may not make the cut. Products like the Akaluli Digital Voice Recorder and the SciTech Mini Digital Voice Activated Recorder can record high-quality audio while remaining relatively inconspicuous, which can help put interviewees at ease and improve the quality of your interactions.

Editing software

While this guide is dedicated to the hardware you’ll need to create recordings, you should make sure the one you choose supports the MP3 or AAC audio formats. These common formats are compatible with all free or paid audio editors, music production software, and other recorders and media players for Windows and macOS. Selecting higher-quality audio formats like FLAC, ALAC, or AIFF will eat up more space, which means your recorder won’t be able to hold as many recordings.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best voice recorders

• Best overall: Sony ICD-PX470 Digital Voice Recorder
• Best digital: Zoom H1n Portable Recorder
• Best voice-activated: EVISTR 32GB Digital Voice Recorder
• Best for street interviews: Blast Mic
• Best long-distance recording: Dictopro X100 Voice Recorder
• Best for students: Sony ICD-UX570 Digital Voice Recorder
• Best for audio pros: Zoom H6 All Black Recorder
• Best budget: Akaluli Digital Voice Recorder

Voice recorders are a helpful tool for eliminating the challenge of sustained note-taking and listening, allowing people involved in lectures, conversations, and interviews to remain engaged. When it’s time to review your audio, the best voice recorders also offer easy playback functions to make transcription a breeze. If you’re looking for a convenient way to create recordings, make notes, or keep tabs on the go, a dedicated voice recorder can do all the heavy lifting for you.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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Best overall		Arturia Pigments		SEE IT	Deep and versatile.
Best analog		u-he Diva		SEE IT	You’ll swear it’s actually analog.
Best for pros		Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2		SEE IT	Sound design has never been so much fun.

There’s never been a better time to produce music digitally, thanks to the evolution of synth VSTs. What used to be a prohibitively expensive endeavor that required thousands of dollars of pricey hardware and outboard gear is now possible with a laptop, a decent set of studio monitors, and a MIDI controller. Fueling the fire of this production revolution are top-quality Virtual Studio Technology (VST) instruments and effects. Thanks to ever-improving computing power, the sound of these virtual synthesizers—which load into your computer as plugins in a DAW, or digital audio workstation—are now almost indistinguishable from their hardware counterparts. Whether you can hear the difference in the mix arguably doesn’t even matter anymore. Listeners surely don’t notice! And, because synth VSTs aren’t bound by real-world rules, advanced features, new and novel forms of synthesis, and astonishing, built-in effects are par for the course. And all at a fraction of the cost of hardware. There will always be a place for physical musical instruments but right now, many of the most exciting things in music production are happening in the computing realm. Here are our picks for the best synth VSTs on the market now.

• Best overall: Arturia Pigments
• Best free: Surge XT
• Best for beginners: Roland Cloud Juno-106
• Best for pros: Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2
• Best analog: u-he Diva
• Best wavetable: Xfer Records Serum
• Best loop-based/best sampler/best ROMpler: Native Instruments Kontakt 7

How we chose the best synth VSTs

The VST market is already massive, and companies release new versions every day. And that’s before you even start counting freeware instruments. To arrive at our list of the best synth VSTs we considered several points, such as sound quality, the types of synthesis (how it generates the sound), an abundance of patch-shaping parameters, extras like built-in effects and sequencers, and price—including free synths. We also looked at the level of difficulty of use. Will beginners feel comfortable with it, or is it better suited for pros? After narrowing things down, we amalgamated the results of our personal experience with general industry consensus and critical response to assemble this list of the best synth VSTs. Viva la VST revolution!

The best synth VSTs: Reviews & Recommendations

When shopping for a VST synth, remember to keep your end goal in mind. What kind of music do you intend to make with the instrument? If your goal is synthwave, something suitably retro and vintage-sounding is in order. However, a virtual analog synth won’t cut the mustard (or even the mayo) if your musical sandwich needs acoustic and real-world ingredients. In that case, you may need a sampler. Also, remember that beyond its musical capabilities, this is a piece of software with technical specifications, so ensure that your computer and DAW can handle it—both in terms of format and CPU hit. Finally, have fun. There’s very little that’s more exciting than a new synthesizer to loosen up your controller and bring your studio monitors to life.

Best overall: Arturia Pigments

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: A synthesizer that can do it all and sound great doing it.

Specs

• Formats: VST2, VST3, AAX, AU
• Synthesis types: Virtual analog, wavetable, additive, sample-based, granular
• Effects: Yes

Pros

• Stunning sound quality
• Variety of sound engine types
• Plenty of modulation possibilities

Cons

• Could be challenging for beginners
• CPU hog

Arturia is one of the top VST synth developers in the world. It made a name for itself creating deliriously great-sounding emulations of classic synthesizers. For its first original VST synth, the French company brought all of its decades of experience to bear in Pigments, a modern instrument with a deep variety of sound engines and parameters.

Think of Pigments like a colorful build-your-own dessert bar where you get to stack up the sweet flavors however you see fit. Start with the sound-generating oscillators: You can have up to three of these, with virtual analog, wavetable, samples, and additive (building up harmonic partials) available. After this comes the filter, or actually filters, with 10 types culled from a variety of famous synths ready to slide into two slots. Modern music is all about modulation, and Pigments comes packed with envelopes, LFOs, step sequencer-like function generators, and more. Colorful visual feedback that lives up to the instrument’s name makes this relatively easy to understand. Finally, there’s an extensive effects section, including ones taken from Arturia’s many famous effect unit emulations.

Pigments is not a beginner’s instrument; it’s deep and complex and powerfully capable. To get the most out of it, you need to know your way around subtractive synthesis, how to manipulate a wavetable, and how granular synthesis works. However, this also makes it incredibly versatile and able to turn out sounds that will easily fit into any genre. The presence of a sample sound engine alone makes it usable in everything from electronic music to film-scoring. 

One caveat: all that power requires CPU so make sure your system can handle it or be prepared to freeze or bounce tracks.

With its deep synthesis options, customizable modules, and powerful modulation parameters, Pigments could be the only VST synth you ever need.

Best free: Surge Synth Team Surge XT

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Why it made the cut: This free and open-source VST synth is ridiculously powerful.

Specs

• Formats: VST3, AU
• Synthesis types: Virtual analog, wavetable, FM, physical modeling, more
• Effects: Yes

Pros

• Free
• Great sound quality
• Plenty of synthesis options

Cons

• May scare beginners off

You don’t have to spend a lot of money for quality synth VSTs. In fact, sometimes you don’t have to spend any money at all. Case in point is Surge XT, a deep and dynamic freeware synthesizer. What started as a paid synth by developer Vember Audio has now evolved into an open-source passion project by a team of volunteer developers known as Surge Synth Team. As more people come on to work on it, the synth continues to evolve almost organically.

Given its collective nature, practically every facet of Surge XT has an almost bewildering variety of options. The oscillator section alone has 12 different algorithm types, from standard virtual analog and wavetable to different FM varieties, physical modeling, and even a port from a modular synth. You could spend days just exploring the sound generation section, and that’s without mentioning the dual filters, each with a ton of different configurations, some taken from other freeware instruments like Odin and OB-Xd. Modulation is similarly deep and extensive, as is the effects section. There’s plenty more too.

If Surge XT has a drawback, it’s that it’s almost too complex. With so many options, you’d be forgiven for finding yourself lost in the permutations. This can make it intimidating for beginners. Thankfully, there are presets to help get you started—unsurprisingly, almost 3000 of them. But if you’re going to have a problem, too much of a good thing is a fine one to have.

Best for beginners: Roland Cloud Juno-106

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Why it made the cut: Roland’s emulation of its classic polysynth sounds just like the real thing.

Specs

• Formats: VST3, AU, AAX
• Synthesis types: Virtual analog
• Effects: Yes

Pros

• Gorgeous sound
• Uncluttered layout
• Perfect for beginners

Cons

• CPU hungry

Roland made a name for itself by releasing some of the most popular analog synthesizers of the 1980s. One of those, the Juno-106, has gone on to become something of a legend. With its uncluttered interface, streamlined signal path, and gorgeous tones, it has become classic hardware for synth-pop and dance music. The company has now released its own VST version and it’s the perfect instrument for beginners to get their heads around subtractive synthesis.

The sound starts with a single oscillator. Here called a DCO (Digitally Controlled Oscillator), it has a particularly smooth and stable tonal character. This passes through a single and lovely filter before hitting the effects section. The famous Juno chorus effect is included but Roland has beefed up this section to include distortion, reverb, delay, and other common effects. And while the signal path may be easy to understand, sound quality is not lacking in any way, with a depth and profundity to match the hardware original.

It’s not all sunshine though. As with other, modern VST synths, sound quality has a price tag and it’s usually paid by the CPU. You can reduce polyphony (the number of notes you can play at a time) to address this but this will also affect your ability to play complex chords.

Juno-106 is part of Roland Cloud’s subscription service. You can access it by paying a monthly or yearly fee or buy it outright for $149. Both options have their benefits; it’s for you to decide which is the more attractive. Either way, you’re getting access to one of the best—and easiest to use—synthesizers ever made.

Best for pros: Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2

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Why it made the cut: With both samples and unique wavetables, Omnisphere is capable of wholly original sounds.

Specs

• Formats: VST2, VST3, AU, AAX
• Synthesis types: Wavetable, sample-based
• Effects: Yes

Pros

• Deep sound design
• Unique sample library
• Hardware integration

Cons

• Expensive

Some synths, like the Juno-106 (above), offer a limited palette of sounds. That’s OK. They do one thing and they do it well. And then there are synths that do pretty much everything. That’s Spectrasonics’ Omnisphere. And the clincher is it sounds like heaven.

Omnisphere combines samples with synthesis—in this case, DSP-generated wavetables. Because of the samples—many recorded bespoke by Spectrasonics itself—the instrument can go beyond the usual familiar synthesized sounds into completely uncharted territory. This makes it the go-to program for professional sound designers working in film, television, and the video game industry. Beginners beware: this is a seriously high-level instrument. Wallets also beware: Omnisphere comes with a pro-level price tag.

Spectrasonics was founded by hardware synthesizer designer Eric Persing (Roland, Alesis) so it’s no surprise that it allows you to use your real-world synth as a MIDI controller. Finally, the either/or question of hardware versus software has been answered with a resounding “both.”

When it’s time to level up in the VST synth game, Omnisphere is the obvious choice.

Best analog: u-he Diva

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Why it made the cut: Diva’s analog dream synth combines the best bits of famous instruments into a jaw-droppingly beautiful whole.

Specs

• Formats: VST2, VST3, AU, AAX (currently Windows only)
• Synthesis types: Virtual analog
• Effects: Yes

Pros

• Incredible sound quality
• Modular approach to synthesis
• Deep sound design

Cons

• Heavy CPU usage

With so many famous analog synthesizers released in the 1970s and 1980s, wouldn’t it be amazing if we could somehow combine them all into one gorgeous instrument? Take, say, the oscillator section from a Moog Minimoog and combine it with the filter circuit from a Korg MS-20. That’s the idea behind u-he’s Diva, an analog-style synthesizer that offers not only this kind of flexibility, but also sounds absolutely stunning in the process.

At first blush, Diva appears to be your standard analog synthesizer. It has an oscillator section, filter, and envelopes. Move along, nothing to see here, right? Not quite. You can choose from a number of alternatives for each of these sections, building up the ideal signal path for your target sound. This offers a level of flexibility you don’t often get in traditional analog emulations. Diva goes deeper, though, with additional controls for fine-tuning—even offering modifications to the “circuit” itself. It’s all finished off with a comprehensive effects section.

None of this would mean anything if Diva didn’t have the sound quality to back it up, but it does. Oh, does it ever. It can be luscious and creamy or wild and wooly, just as you expect a hardware synth to be. Close your eyes and you’ll swear you’re playing an analog synth from 1980. You do have to pay the piper in the form of CPU consumption, though.

If you’re after analog authenticity but don’t want the headache and hassle of owning a room full of cantankerous old synths, Diva is the way to go.

Best wavetable: Xfer Records Serum

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Why it made the cut: Ultra-clean wavetables and plenty of modulation options make Serum a digital synth god.

Specs

• Formats: VST2, AU, AAX
• Synthesis types: Wavetable
• Effects: Yes

Pros

• High-quality sound
• Workflow oriented
• Effects suite

Cons

• CPU hungry

If you’ve listened to EDM or any other kind of dance music in the last few years, you’ve likely heard Xfer Records’ Serum in action. This wavetable VST synth has come to dominate the sound of electronic music and for good reason: it’s absurdly powerful and it sounds astonishingly good.

Xfer Records didn’t invent wavetable synthesis. That honor goes to Wolfgang Palm, who made it famous with his PPG Wave instruments in the 1980s. They used dynamic digital samples to create new textures and tones. These sounds were also full of aliasing, or digital noise, however. While some find aliasing charming, Xfer Records clearly does not and has managed to wipe it completely clean from Serum. The result is a synth with all the inherent power of wavetables that is also mind-blowingly smooth and crystalline.

Serum also offers more than just the usual scannable wavetables, with a whole host of table manipulation options. You can warp them in a variety of ways, from subtle to complete annihilation. You can even import your own wavetables and draw in original manipulations.

With tons of modulation possibilities—the source of the wubs, or fluttering bass sound, so popular in dance music—plus tons of filter types, effects, and a massive unison mode for stacking oscillators into single, fat tones, Serum is your one-stop-shop for dance floor destroying sounds. Just keep an eye on your CPU meter—Serum can be a ravenous monster.

Best loop-based/best sampler/best ROMpler: Native Instruments Kontakt 7

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Why it made the cut: Kontakt is the sampler to have if you work with sample libraries, want to make your own, or both.

Specs

• Formats: VST2, VST3, AU, AAX
• Synthesis types: Sample-based, wavetable
• Effects: Yes

Pros

• Many libraries available
• Drag and drop sampling
• Built-in filter and effects

Cons

• Expensive

There are different kinds of VST instrument users. If you’re the type that likes working with real-world sounds like violins, guitars, and acoustic percussion, you’re going to need a sampler. Likewise, if you want to make your own sample packs. In either case, the choice is clear: Native Instruments’ Kontakt 7.

Native Instruments is a real player in the VST synth game, with an almost endless amount of famous releases in its stable (Massive, anyone?). Kontakt 6 is the jewel in its crown and practically an industry unto itself. All those expensive orchestra sample libraries aimed at composers and wannabe Hans Zimmers? They all run on Kontakt. If you have any interest at all in soundtrack work, Kontakt needs to be in your plugin folder. While third-party libraries must be purchased separately, Kontakt 6 does include a large and very usable factory library for immediate gratification.

Kontakt 6 is more than just a ROMpler, powerful though it is. It’s also incredibly useful for making your own sample packs. You don’t need to be a software developer to get the most out of it either. With drag and drop sample importing, easy editing, built-in filters and effects (many taken from NI’s own effects plugin line), and now even a wavetable engine, you’ll be sampling in no time.

Things to consider when shopping for the best synth VSTs

What is a VST?

Put simply, a VST is a plugin instrument, audio effect, or MIDI effect that you can load into a separate application, usually a DAW (see below). The term VST can be used in the broad sense to refer to all music plugins in general (and this is how we’re using it primarily in this list) or, confusingly, a specific format of music plugin. At the format level, VST stands for Virtual Studio Technology and was invented by audio developer Steinberg in 1996 for use in its Cubase DAW. The most recent iteration of the company’s VST standard is VST3. You may see the term VSTi used. This is an older abbreviation that refers to a VST-format instrument. 

Other plugin types include AU (Audio Unit) for Apple computers and AXX (Avid Audio eXtension) for Pro Tools software. Some DAWs will accept only one format, like Logic (AU) or Pro Tools (AAX). Others, like Ableton Live, accept multiple ones (AU, VST2, VST3). Check your DAW’s technical specifications to find out what formats are compatible.

What is a DAW?

A DAW is a digital audio workstation. It’s a music-making application and, as the name suggests, a kind of virtual studio. It’s fully self-contained and allows you to make music with essentially just a computer. Some famous DAWs include Steinberg Cubase, Avid Pro Tools, Apple Logic Pro X, and Ableton Live. They are all a little different in terms of workflow but share many similarities. They allow you to record audio, work with MIDI to sequence notes, and load instrument and effects plugins. Most come pre-stocked with a selection of plugins to get you started and also accept third-party plugins, such as the ones on this list.

What kind of music are you making?

As with any instrument, the first thing to address when buying any music production software is does it match the music that you intend to make? Just as you probably wouldn’t buy an accordion to make heavy metal, a retro-sounding virtual analog synth might not be the best complement for dark trap. Or maybe it would—that decision is ultimately up to you and your creative needs.

Software support

There are also technical considerations. As computers age and operating systems are updated, software developers have to make choices about how far back they are willing to support. Make sure that the program you’re about to drop $200 on will run on your system. There’s also the matter of 32- and 64-bit apps. Modern operating systems no longer support 32-bit programs. While you should not run into any conflicts with the VSTs on this list, some older ones (and especially freeware plugins) may not work if they haven’t been updated to 64-bit. 

Format

Your chosen DAW has restrictions, too. There are different plugin formats, such as VST and AU. We’ll explain this in more detail, but remember that not all plugins will work in every DAW. 

Performance requirements

Finally, there’s the issue of CPU usage. Many modern VST synths are power-hungry beasts. After all, there’s a reason they can rival hardware in terms of sound quality. Ensure you have a laptop for music production and audio interface that are up-to-spec before spending money on a CPU vampire. Nothing kills the studio vibe like stuttering audio and drop outs. Plus, new hardware often comes with new software, so you might get some bonus VSTs.

Synthesis types

Every synthesizer, soft or hard, generates sound through a form of synthesis. Think of synthesis as sonic alchemy—the process by which raw sound gets transubstantiated into throbbing bass, searing leads, soft pads, or whooshy effects. Much like the many different kinds of chemical reactions in the world, there are a number of different ways for sound to come together. 

Virtual analog is traditionally the most popular form of synthesis for VST synths. This digitally mimics the real-world warmth and power of electricity coursing through a hardware synthesizer, like a Moog Minimoog or Roland Juno-60. This is also known as subtractive synthesis, as you start with a harmonically complex waveform and subtract frequencies and amplitude from it. 

FM, or Frequency Modulation, was the first major digital brand of synthesis to challenge analog. It involves waveforms (usually sine waves) modulating other waveforms to generate new harmonics. Yamaha’s DX7 rode FM synthesis into 1980s pop ubiquity. 

Wavetable synthesis starts with a sample that changes over time—for example, a bright brass patch that becomes progressively darker. This sample is called a wavetable, and you have control over a number of parameters, such as playback position. Although this technology goes back to the late 1970s, it’s had a resurgence lately in modern music thanks to VST synths like Native Instruments’ Massive and Xfer Records’ Serum (see below). Other forms of synthesis include sample-based, granular, additive, physical modeling, and many more.

FAQs

Final thoughts on the best synth VSTs

• Best overall: Arturia Pigments
• Best free: Surge XT
• Best for beginners: Roland Cloud Juno-106
• Best for pros: Spectrasonics Omnisphere 2
• Best analog: u-he Diva
• Best wavetable: Xfer Records Serum
• Best loop-based/best sampler/best ROMpler: Native Instruments Kontakt 7

There’s a vast world of incredible synth VSTs out there, no matter your musical style. While the sheer number of instruments on the market may initially seem overwhelming, the good news is that there are synths out there that will definitely work for you. You can also often try before you buy. Many offer free trial periods so you can make sure that the instrument will work with your genre and DAW/computer. Have fun and enjoy making music.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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Total Package		Native Instruments Komplete 13		SEE IT	A huge and well-rounded collection of time-tested synthesizers and effects, along with recent genre sounds, best purchased at this deeply discounted bundle price.
Mixing and Mastering		iZotope Music Production Suite 4		SEE IT	This wonderland for mixing and mastering music includes innovative AI tools for helping both beginners and professionals achieve results.
One-Stop Shop		Reason Studios Reason+		SEE IT	The flagship Reason 11 software works as both a plug-in and a standalone music workstation, and the Reason+ subscription includes all the instruments and effects, as well as weekly sound packs.

Music and technology are two constants in human society, so it’s fitting that most of today’s artists satisfy their creative drive and the public’s insatiable appetite for sound through music production software on computers. The basic setup includes a digital audio workstation (DAW) program for recording and mixing tracks, which may come free with your computer or cost a few bucks. And those DAWs often offer generous toolkits. But producers with a vision should complement their DAW with the best music production software to suit their specific goals. Will you perform your own songs? Will you stay behind the scenes, mixing and mastering songs for the next Post Malones and Ariana Grandes of the world? What about writing musical scores? All those new Netflix shows aren’t going to compose music for themselves. Fortunately, there are outstanding music-creation suites for every artistic agenda, and here is our selection of the best music production software programs. 

• Best overall: Native Instruments Komplete 13 
• Best for mixing and mastering: iZotope Music Production Suite 4 
• Best for synth addicts: Arturia V Collection
• Best for one-stop shoppers: Reason Studios Reason+
• Best for composers: EastWest ComposerCloud X 
• Best free: MeldaProduction MFreeFXBundle 

The best music production software: Reviews & Recommendations

In addition to complementing the built-in features of your DAW software of choice, the best music production software complements your creative goals as well. Are you essentially a one-person show like Tyler, the Creator? The number of interesting individual plug-ins and virtual instruments for music-making runs into the thousands, so rather than piecing them together one by one, some of the best music production software options bundle together cohesive groups of excellent professional plug-ins for much lower prices than purchasing them separately. Each product here is a winner, so choose according to your own situation.

Best overall: Native Instruments Komplete 13 

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Germany’s Native Instruments was an early pioneer in integrating software instruments and sound effects into complete production suites. As its name implies, Komplete 13 ($599) supplies a comprehensive collection of 68 digital instruments, sounds, and processors for producing and mixing music. Thirty sample-based instruments outfit you with not only a full band’s worth of guitar, bass, drum, piano, and classic keyboard sounds, but also orchestral horns, strings, and the traditional instruments from cultures all around the world. More than a dozen synthesizer plug-ins cover recreations of classic synths and many synthesis styles, such as virtual analog and FM, and the Massive X wavetable synthesizers have been very influential in the worlds of dubstep and trap bangers. The REAKTOR modular environment lets you build instruments that haven’t existed previously.

Komplete 13 finishes off with something of almost everything in the realm of audio processing, including the Guitar Rig 6 suite of amplifier emulations and guitar-style effects, as well as a complement of reverb, delay, EQ, compressor, distortion, modulation, and other effects and dynamics plug-ins. Komplete 13 comes on a portable hard drive packing more than 36,000 sounds and 320GB of material. The high-end Komplete 13 Ultimate ($1,199) package adds another 50 instruments and effects and more than 500GB of additional audio material. Most of that comes in the form of orchestral and cinematic instruments providing brass, woodwinds, strings, mallet percussion, and complex soundscapes for modern professional scoring. All Komplete 13 plug-ins can operate within the included Komplete Kontrol software, which allows perfectly mapped hardware control from Native Instruments keyboard controllers such as the Komplete Kontrol A49 ($219) or S49 MK2 ($669). 

Best for mixing and mastering: iZotope Music Production Suite 4 

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Audio plug-ins like the graphical waveform-based Nectar for vocal processing, Neutron for mixing, Ozone for mastering, and RX for audio cleanup and repair were already industry favorites before iZotope imbued them with machine-learning AI assistants. Now, the latest versions in Music Production Suite 4 come with “Assistant” functions that automatically perform certain audio processes based on your input and the analysis of a growing database of thousands, if not millions of other tracks. But don’t worry, you can change any of the automated suggestions they make, whether you want to tune-up or intentionally trash a frequency. Your creativity drives the process.

The music mixing software suite also includes Tonal Balance Control 2, another of iZotope’s AI-assisted breakthroughs, which works with all the Neutron and Ozone plug-ins within a DAW session and adjusts them to meet the optimal levels of 12 tonal balance zones based on the optimal levels for different musical genres or any of your chosen reference songs. Rounding out the suite are VocalSynth 2 for beautiful-to-bizarre vocal effects and vocoding, Insight 2 for detailed track metering, three professional reverb plug-ins, and Stutter Edit 2 for rhythmic effects.

All told, Music Production Suite 4 is the best place to start for musicians who want to try mixing and mastering their own music for distribution. If its upfront price of $999 is too steep and you’d rather pay a monthly subscription, iZotope’s Music Production Suite Pro ($24.99/month) gives you most of the products in the Music Production Suite 4, including all of the AI-assisted mixing and mastering products, with the added bonus of Melodyne Essential, which can perform the kind of vocal trickery popularized by T-Pain, Kanye, and Future.

Best for synth addicts: Arturia V Collection 9

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Imagine a studio filled with the most famous vintage analog and digital synthesizers, organs, and electric pianos that fueled your favorite music from the ’70s to today: every Stevie Wonder and Herbie Hancock funk classic, every Kraftwerk and Depeche Mode synth-pop gem, and most of the glowstick-powered rave jams. When you wake up from that dream, feel good knowing that you can pack that fantasy studio into your laptop for $599 with the Arturia V Collection 9, a bundle of 32 instrument emulation plug-ins with a total of more than 14,000 preset sounds covering the best-loved timbres from beloved classic keyboards like Moog Minimoog analog synth, Yamaha DX-7 FM digital synth, the Hammond B-3 organ, Rhodes and Wurlitzer electric pianos, Mellotron, and much more. Arturia’s KeyLab keyboard controllers, like the KeyLab MKII 49 ($499), are designed to seamlessly manipulate the vintage emulations in V Collection 8 with their knobs, buttons, faders, and pads.

Best for one-stop shoppers: Reason Studios Reason+

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Since it added multitrack audio recording several versions back, Reason Studios Reason 11 really qualifies as full-fledged DAW software. But it stands out with its one-of-a-kind interface that arranges its analog-style mixer and all of its many instruments and effects into a fully configurable Rack, whose backside view allows you to connect and reconnect any of the individual devices together in infinitely creative configurations with virtual patch cords. Its unique, self-contained workflow and constantly expanding add-ons shop has made Reason a favorite among DIY music producers and songwriters since the dawn of the millennium. But these days Reason 11 is not only self-contained beat maker software but it also works as a plug-in workstation inside of any other major DAW software, allowing you to route whatever you’ve recorded through Reason’s expansive signal chain. With the Reason+ subscription ($19.99/month), subscribers get the Reason 11 standalone/plug-in workstation; 80 instrument, audio effect, MIDI effect, and audio utility devices; plus weekly sound pack downloads. The instruments comprise dozens of versatile, powerful, and fun synthesizers, samplers, and drum machines that when combined with the productivity-friendly Reason workflow, make up a musical laboratory perfect for discovering modern pop, hip-hop, and dancefloor-filling hits.  

Best for composers: EastWest ComposerCloud X

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Like most areas in music and pro audio, scoring music for pictures (movies, TV, video games) is a hyper-competitive field where composers would do well to differentiate themselves. One possible way to do that is to use the absolute highest-quality sound libraries for composing with the most realistic and meticulously recorded samples of orchestral instruments available. Anyone can hear a stark difference in realism between the brass and strings instruments included with Apple Logic Pro X, for example, and those of a renowned company like Spitfire Audio, which constantly strives to make more comprehensive and realistic virtual instruments that run into the hundreds or even thousands of dollars per title.

Even if composers of moderate means acquire a few libraries covering the basic orchestral needs, what do they do when they need something rarer like a sitar or a dulcimer? Enter EastWest, one of the first music-making software companies to embrace the subscription model for ComposerCloud X ($29.99/month), a collection of 70 orchestral, choir, and piano sound libraries all aimed squarely at professional scoring. In all, it grants access to more than 40,000 virtual instrument variations covering brass, woodwinds, strings, vocals, drums/percussion, guitars/bass, pianos/keyboard, and world/ethnic categories. EastWest, and its associated brand Quantum Leap, make some of the most revered products in the business and ComposerCloud X includes all newly released products as they come out, such as the recent Hollywood Orchestra Opus Edition. 

Best free: MeldaProduction MFreeFXBundle

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While all DAW software now comes with at least some stock plug-ins for adding audio effects or often-crucial dynamics processors like EQ and compression, not every DAW includes every type of plug-in. And sometimes the stock plug-ins are light on perks like visual representation audio waveforms in their interfaces. Also, every reverb, distortion, or other effect plug-in is unique in some way, and it can only help to collect a few of each kind and choose your favorites (without going overboard and neglecting the actual work of making music). MeldaProduction makes a vast array of quality instrument and effect plug-ins, but you can pick up 37 of its very useful products for no cost in its MFreeFXBundle.

There are no instrument plug-ins, but this is still the most generous free bundle available. Its plug-ins cover the effect bases with the essential reverb, compressor, distortion, flanger, phaser, filter, ring modulator, and more, but there are also more rare and very useful utilities that your DAW may not include. For example, there is a stereo image widener, an instrument tuner, pitch correction, a visual metronome, a text-editing notepad, and quite a bit more. Also unusual for free plug-ins, the MeldaProduction plug-ins provide waveform displays for almost every effect that deals with audio. For example, the MAutopan performs the programmed panning of a track from left to right in the stereo image, but you can also see and adjust the waveform of the panning oscillator visually. MFreeFXBundle limits you in certain ways—the biggest being the inability to save your own presets. However, you can upgrade the entire bundle to allow preset saving, resizing of the windows, and several other features by paying a whopping $59.  

What to consider when choosing the best music production software

Assuming you have DAW software, which is the foundation for production, this guide concentrates on the best music production collections of audio plug-ins to complement that main software. There are some options, like Reason Studios’ Reason, that actually function as both a plug-in and a standalone DAW, but we’re primarily going to look at the best music production software for specific use cases. 

If you’re in a band and your focus will be on mixing and mastering songs that are mostly recorded from instruments, there are packages that emphasize tone cleaning and sculpting plug-ins over virtual instrument plug-ins. If, on the other hand, you can’t get enough synthesizer sounds or are obsessed with ’80s-esque retro-wave music, there are very synthesizer-focused collections. Composers will use a lot of virtual instrument plug-ins but need sample libraries that are based on acoustic orchestras rather than otherworldly tones, and there are options for that.

Big plug-in collections are investments in your musical career, but you can opt to make that investment as a single upfront price or try one of the growing number of subscription music software packages. Subscriptions allow you to get started producing music now if you don’t have the budget for the full-priced software, and they give you the latest updates to everything. However, many people prefer to pay once and not think about it again, and not all the best music production software is available via subscription.  

If you’re using a hardware controller to work with your DAW software, that same hardware may be able to also give you seamless, hands-on control of your music production plug-ins, as well. Both Native Instruments and Arturia make keyboard controllers that come pre-mapped to work with their music production plug-ins and also offer control over many of the best DAW programs too. 

You keep mentioning DAW software. What, exactly, is it?

Digital audio workstation software is sophisticated, deeply featured software for recording, editing, arranging, and mixing multiple tracks of audio for music, movie/TV productions, podcasting, and so on. They’re names you likely recognize, including Ableton Live, Apple Logic Pro X, FL Studio, and Avid Pro Tools. Most DAWs also support multiple MIDI-note tracks, which use virtual instruments such as synthesizers, drum machines, and samplers. Along with that comes support for third-party effects and processing plug-ins, as well as external hardware controllers. The DAW is what you use for framing the song’s structure, while plug-ins are great for the detailing.

OK, so what should I know about plug-ins?

The plug-in software that DAWs support are individual programs that work inside of the DAW. The producer “plugs in” these programs to an audio or MIDI track in the DAW. Instrument plug-ins generate sound either as digital synthesizers or by triggering audio files such as drum sounds or sampled acoustic instruments. Effect plug-ins treat a DAW track’s audio to some form of processing, such as adding echo or filtering the audio frequencies. Other MIDI plug-ins, such as an arpeggiator, determine how notes are played back, and some plug-ins are strictly visual, such as frequency spectrum analyzers, which present a display of audio waveforms.

Most plug-ins must be used within a DAW program, but some also work as standalone software. There are several common plug-in formats—such as VST, AudioUnits, and AAX—and your DAW software must support a plug-in’s particular format to work with it. All the plug-in collections in this guide support multiple plug-in formats and both Mac and Windows computers so that they will work with all the major DAWs.

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Final thoughts on the best music production software

• Best overall: Native Instruments Komplete 13 
• Best for mixing and mastering: iZotope Music Production Suite 4 
• Best for synth addicts: Arturia V Collection
• Best for one-stop shoppers: Reason Studios Reason+
• Best for composers: EastWest ComposerCloud X 
• Best free: MeldaProduction MFreeFXBundle