Best Low Impedance Headphones: Find best match for you

Headphones are a commodity that we rarely appreciate. We use them for almost everything, especially nowadays, with a deadly pandemic at hand, headphones are essential for online classes, meetings, office work, gaming, and much more. These are audio sources that we rarely notice, but our daily lives will be hampered without them.

Many of you have heard the term impedance. It is imperative when it comes to any audio device and not just limited to headphones. You will see questions all over the internet about headphones, but there will be one question in common, what amplifier to use with a headphone?

Amplifiers are a requirement by several headphones, although nowadays, most headphones do not require the need for an external amplifier; they come built inside. When talking about amplifiers, one common term flies around and is essential to choosing an ideal headphone amplifier pair; that is, impedance.

What is the impedance? Why do we need to know about it? Why is it required? All your questions will be answered along with a list of the best low impedance headphones. Keep on reading.

What is Impedance?

Impedance is a value or a load on the audio device measured in Ohms. You may find it written on the cables or on the specifications sticker on your device. For audio sources, it ranges from 8 – 600 Ohms. The measure of impedance is divided between the two types of audio sources, speakers, and headphones, and so you will see that these are termed differently.

Conventionally, headphones have an impedance of around 32 Ohms, and this is increasingly popular now with all the brands. The reason being, headphones usually do not require high power to run the audio, unlike stereo speakers and other passive speakers, which do. The easy way to distinguish is by checking the values; of course, you will see values as high as 600 Ohms on speakers.

Impedance is an important aspect when you are pairing an amplifier with an audio source. Without the right impedance matched with the audio source such as your headphones or speakers, you will first not have audio, and secondly, a mismatch in the values can damage both of the components.

The significance of low impedance in headphones:

To ensure that you have the best audio quality and that your audio source delivers it accurately, the use of an amplifier is significant. Matching the impedance values of your headphone with the amplifier is essential not to damage the equipment. For headphones, matching the impedance is a little easier than when you are pairing with a speaker.

For headphones, the optimal impedance is taken to be below 50 Ohms. This is because a lower impedance requires a low voltage, meaning; it is compatible with most headphones since they do not require a lot of power to run. Moreover, the low impedance can efficiently produce excellent sound quality and at a higher volume. This feature is also useful as it reduces the production cost as well.

The ten best low impedance headphones: An overview of each

By now, you have understood the basics of impedance and how a low impedance is beneficial for your headphones. The concept is pretty easy, and you do not have to worry about studying for it. Just grab a headphone, read the specifications, match, and you are good to go. Below are ten of the best low impedance headphones in the market that might suit your liking.

Philips SHP9500:

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Specifications:

Product Dimensions: 7 x 7.9 x 3.9 inches
Item Weight: 6 lbs
Frequency Range: 12 Hz to 35 kHz
Sensitivity: 101 dB
Maximum Power Input: 200 mW
Impedance: 32 Ohm
Acoustic System: Open Back
Speaker/Driver Diameter: 50 mm
Magnet Type: Neodymium

Philips has always been good at making their products pristine and of good quality. You may know them from their several other products like the light bulbs, flashlights, RGB light strips, trimmers, and many other household appliances such as TV, Fridge, and even ovens. Philips is everywhere and all around you. So, it is a little strange to hear a Philips headset in the list.

This headset is not just good; it is great. It tells you so much about the craftsmanship of Philips and their dedication towards making a good product. The Philips SHP9500 is a Hi-Fi stereo headphone that suits all your needs. It has a really affordable price, and the performance is a good value for the money. You will not be disappointed with this pair, but the sad part is that it does not include a microphone.

Going into the headset’s details, the clarity of the audio is phenomenal for a budget headphone. It has incredible highs and does not go overboard in clarifying it. The bass can be a little disappointing to some, but it works for a pair of headphones, although it is best not to expect much.

Points for Praise:

A versatile design that is good for gaming, movies, and other activities.
Has high-quality highs which call for clear vocals in the audio.
Inexpensive and great value for money.

Points for Improvement:

The bass is not impactful and sometimes distorting.
Open back design may cause sound leaks and no noise cancelation.

Sennheiser HD569:

Specifications:

Product Dimension: 1 x 3.95 x 10.25 inches
Item Weight: 54 lbs
Frequency Response: 10 Hz to 28 kHz
Sensitivity: 115 dB
Impedance: 23 Ohms
Pattern Pickup: Omni-directional
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): less than 0.2% (1 kHz, 100 dB)
Acoustic System: Closed Back

Sennheiser has been going well with its HD5XX series. It is audio rich and fulfilling and perfect for audiophiles. These headphones are budget-friendly but sound expensive as if you own an expensive pair of headphones. There really is nothing majorly unlikeable about the HD569. You get what you paid for and more. Sennheiser has never disappointed and will not do so with this series.

In terms of comfort, Sennheiser pads their ear cuffs with memory foam align with a soft material that is extremely comfortable on the ears and ideal for long term sessions, maybe some gaming or music. There are wedge ridges around the ear cuff which can be uncomfortable to some. The headband is thick and fits right on your head.

As for the performance, the closed-back design helps with the bass giving it a punch effect. The mid and high-frequency ranges are decent and not overdone. The vocals are clear and most importantly, there are no distortions in the quality when the volume is increased. Sennheiser has always delivered the right performance even at its budget products and with the HD569, it is just right.

Also, there are some great Philips headphones, that are quite amazing for your better sound experience.

Points for Praise:

The audio is very accurate and palpable.
Comprises a detachable cable, so you do not have to keep it hanging all always.
The sound is balanced, and the volume is loud and clear.

Points for Improvement:

The ear cuffs have wedges that can be irritating.
The audio lacks bass and mids, so the quality is not super.

Audio Technica ATH M50X:

Specifications:

Product Dimensions:4 x 10 x 4.1 inches
Item Weight:1 ounces
Driver/Speaker Size: 45 mm
Sensitivity: 98 dB
Maximum Input Power: 1600 mW
Impedance: 38 Ohms
Frequency Response: 15 Hz to 28kHz

Audio Technica is a brand known by some but its users are consistent in their usage of the Audio Technica products. They have a huge fanbase and it is justified by the performance of their products. Such is the Audio Technica ATH M50X, an outstanding high-end studio monitor headphones that might be a little over your budget but definitely worth the money.

The M50X has a great lightweight build, it is plastic but it does not feel cheap. The drivers are extraordinary and the signature sound of these headsets makes them ideal for DJing, monitoring, and normal usage. The sound is crisp and clear, the details are pristine and with the closed-back design, the bass is also good.

With the box, you are getting a number of accessories. The cables are detachable so you do not have to carry a long wire around your neck all day. Moreover, with the box, you are getting a number of cables in different sizes so you can choose your fit. Overall, Audio Technica ATH M50X delivers phenomenal performance without any mishaps.

Points for Praise:

These have an excellent bass, which is unlikely of many headphones.
Top grade quality ideal for sound stage and music production with clear and accurate audio.
It has excellent noise cancelation or sound isolation for you to enjoy your music.

Points for Improvement:

The ear cuffs can make your ears a little warm, which can be uncomfortable.
Has Bluetooth connectivity issues and sometimes does not support Windows 10.

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro 32:

Specifications:

Product Dimensions: 8 x 4.3 x 6.5 inches
Item Weight: 34 lbs
Headphone type: Over the ear
Sensitivity: 96 dB
Acoustic Type: Closed Back
Frequency Response: 5 Hz to 35 kHz
Impedance: 32 Ohms

Beyerdynamic is an uncommon name to the ears but they are used in the professional sound industry for decades. Its unique V-shaped sound signature makes it suitable for professional-grade audio and that is what the DT 770 Pro offers. In short, these are low impedance headphones that do not break the bank, power-efficient and deliver excellent quality.

Looking at the design of the headphones, they are closed-back which adds to the bass of the product. The DT 770 Pro has great bass reproduction already and with the closed-back design, the performance has upped a notch but not overdone. The quality is clear and clean and most importantly it does not bleed towards the mid ranges.

Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro has great build quality and sustainability. It will stay with you for a long while and its performance will remain unmatched against many retail headphones out there. The power efficiency along with professionalism, these headsets are as good as they say. Plus, the cushions are comfortable and do not cause any discomfort.

Points for Praise:

These have comfortable and soft velour pads, which will keep your ears safe and you happy.
Sturdy build quality, which can be said by the looks of the headphones.
The bass is strong and deep, which is rare to headphones.

Points for Improvement:

The treble can sound bad at high volumes, which is unappreciated.
The longevity of the headphones is surprisingly short.

Bowers & Wilkens P9 Signature:

Specifications:

Product Dimensions: 42 x 6.69 x 8.66 inches
Item Weight: 57 ounces
Frequency Response: 2 Hz to 30 kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): less than 0.2% (1 kHz, 10 mW)
Sensitivity: 111 dB/V at 1 kHz
Maximum Power Input: 50 mW
Impedance: 22 Ohms
Driver Size: 40 mm

Bowers & Wilkens, the name itself should tell you about their quality and performance in the audio world. They provide top-notch performance and aesthetics giving you a premium feel. Some of their products are even padded with fine leather just to give you an idea as to what you are getting into.

These are certified and recommended by many audiophiles and audio engineers as the best sounding headphones in the market. These comments alone speak for the credibility of the Bower $ Wilkens P9 Signature. The over-ear design is beautiful and the red leathering gives it a premium look.

In terms of sound quality, these are an absolute beast that will caress you to sleep. The trebles are crystal, the mid and high ranges are clear and detailed and the bass is incredible. The build quality is sturdy and has high longevity due to its foldable aluminum handles which add to its versatility, durability, and comfort.

Points for Praise:

These are comfortable on the ears despite its boxy ear cuff design.
They look good and do not ruin your fashion or aesthetics.
It is highly compatible with smartphones and other portable devices.

Points for Improvement:

They are heavier than they look, which can be straining on the user.
The highs, specifically the high notes, cause distortions, which is unwelcome.

Beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless:

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Specifications:

Product Dimensions:07 x 4.13 x 5.9 inches
Item Weight:4 ounces
Frequency Response: 5 Hz to 40 kHz
Maximum Playback Time: 30 hours
Impedance: 38 Ohms
Sensitivity: 100 dB
Batteries Required: 1 Lithium Polymer Battery (included)

Another one of Beyerdynamics products on the list and this is an expensive one at that. The Beyerdynamic Amiron Wireless is a breathtaking headphone with a minimalistic look that does not scream expensive and performs exceptionally in any task. The wireless capability of the headphones makes the connectivity simpler and its use, versatile.

It is uncommon to see great battery life in wireless headphones and Beyerdynamic just proved them wrong with the Amiron wireless. You are getting about 30 hours of playback time which is huge depending on your usage. Even if you use them all day, you will still have 6 more hours which is incredible.

Moreover, it has a profile aptX function which lets you choose high-quality audio streaming through Bluetooth. The sound is spacious and clean with no distortions or screeching. The bass is good enough but not bold and the build quality is sturdy to the teeth. The rugged design might be unfavored but once you put them on, you will not want to remove them until the battery dies on you.

Points for Praise:

Due to the high-frequency response, they have detailed audio and clear sound.
Has a great battery life, so you can listen for long hours before having to charge them.
It has a Bluetooth profile aptX function that enables high-quality audio streaming.

Points for Improvement:

There is no noise cancelation despite the high price point.
There are sound leaks in the ear cuffs, so the audio is not loud enough.

Ammoon Takstar Pro 82:

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Specifications:

Product Dimensions:8 x 9.1 x 5.7 inches
Item weight:9 lbs
Maximum Power Input: 50 mW
Rated Power: 20 mW
Frequency Response: 10 Hz to 20 kHz
Sensitivity: 96 dB
Impedance: 32 Ohms
Driver Diameter: 40 mm
Transducer Principle: Dynamic

A budget approach to a similar performing headphone. The Takstar Pro 82 is a great headphone with a low price point that works as well as its expensive competitors if not better. The headset has a good build quality, might not be the best-looking headphones but will surely make you move with its audio reproduction.

The mids and highs are on the flat to neutral region so there is nothing to complain about. The cable is detachable which is a plus since the first thing that is prone to damage is your cable and they provide a lot of size options in the box. Another great addition is the inclusion of a hardcover case. This is essential for traveling and you do not have to spend extra.

The Takstar Pro 82 is the best budget pair of headphones, otherwise work as studio monitors which can be used for anything such as movies, music, gaming, and even some professional audio work or music production. It also features a brass dial that lets you choose your appropriate bass level for the optimal experience.

Points for Praise:

It comes with a lot of accessories which are useful and meet your requirements.
Good bass and not overpowered that it is distorted.
Balanced and precise audio quality with good highs.

Points for Improvement:

The audio quality is not as satisfactory as other alternatives.
Not a durable product for hardcore users.

Audeze LCD 1:

Specifications:

Product Dimensions: 28 x 10.31 x 6.77 inches
Item Weight: 8 ounces
Frequency Response: 10 Hz to 50 kHz
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): less than 0.1% at 100 dB
Sensitivity: 120 dB
Maximum Power Input: 5 Watts RMS
Impedance: 16 Ohms
Driver Size: 90 mm

The Audeze LCD 1 is an odd one to write about. You may have heard of this product or you may not but when you actually get to use one of these, they will surprise you. The performance is on par with many high-end headphones and being the first of the many LCD series, these do a good job in being the first planar magnetic headphone for beginners.

The open-back design is suitable for indoor usage since sound can be heard from the speakers. It features a low impedance driver and yet measures up to the high-end devices and can even match with high-end amplifiers, DACs, and other audio sources without depleting the performance.

If you are looking for an entry-level planar magnetic headphone, the Audeze LCD 1 is a great fit for you. They do the job well and can reproduce any kind of audio be it during gaming sessions or movies, without distorting the quality.

Points for Praise:

Affordable and delivers highly detailed audio.
Has a detachable cable for convenience and portability.
Comfortable and relaxed design quality.

Points for Improvement:

The headphones have an audio bleed so sound leaks.
Does not have an in-built microphone.

HIFIMAN HE400S:

Specifications:

Product Dimensions: 43 x 3.90 x 5.39 inches
Item Weight: 77 lbs
Frequency Response: 20 Hz to 35 kHz
Sensitivity: 98 dB
Maximum Power Input: 6 Watts RMS
Impedance: 22 Ohms
Transducer Type: Planar Magnetic

HiFiMan is a brand that specializes in bringing you the latest and greatest headphone technology at the cheapest price. The HiFiMan HE400S is one of those devices which is a planar magnetic headphone, tuned and polished to compete against high-end brands and products. The performance is something to experience and the quality is simply great.

The bass is a questioning factor of these headphones and they are excellent. The bass is impactful and packs a punch but also slightly dull at the same time. You can change the ear pads for better bass but otherwise, you are good to go. The mid and high ranges are also smooth and clean with the addition of clear vocals and instrumentals. Having these boosted is a blessing in disguise.

The price point that the HE400S command is challenging yet convenient. Because you go in to buy the product without expecting much and then you return home satisfied with a great set of headphones that did not break the bank. Also, as a plus, the ear cuffs are comfortable for long jamming sessions.

Points for Praise:

They are cheap for planar magnetic headphones that do not break the bank.
Comfortable to the ears for their ergonomic design and soft ear cuffs.
Has great control over the mid-frequency ranges.

Points for Improvement:

The build quality feels cheap and the headphones do not feel high quality.
The audio quality is dry or flat and the bass is not deep at all.

Meze 99 Neo:

Specifications:

Product Dimensions: 45 x 8.67 x 4.33 inches
Item Weight: 57 lbs
Frequency Response: 15 Hz to 25 kHz
Sensitivity: 103 dB at 1 kHz/1 mW
Impedance: 26 Ohms
Driver Size: 40 mm
Transducer Type: Dynamic
Rated Power Input: 30 mW
Load Rated Power: 50 mW
Total Harmonic Distortion (THD): less than 0.03% (1 kHz, 1 Vrms)

The Meze 99 Neo in one word is amazing! You can take a look at the headphones and you will know how comfortable these headphones would feel on your ears. The oval design of the ear cuffs will just cover your ears up, keep them nice and comfortable and caress them with smooth music that is not screeching or annoying to any extent.

The sound performance is crisp, clear, and pristine along with the addition of a premium look that enthralls all your attention and others too. You can use them while studying, attending classes, music, gaming, and even some music production. The best part yet, the ear pads are made with memory foam so the comfort level is extraordinary.

Moreover, the self-adjusting headband is so convenient, you do not have to struggle to get the right fit for your head. Just put the on and enjoy. All of Meze users have never been left dissatisfied and the Meze 99 Neo just adds to that number. Premium look, feel, and performance; that is what these headphones are all about.

However, if you are looking for some Audiophile Headphones that are great for Gaming, then this might take your attention for a bit.

Points for Praise:

Has great sound quality with excellent customer satisfaction.
Premium quality build and sturdy material.
Comes with a lot of accessories to check all your needs.

Points for Improvement:

There is an audio leak and the bass and mid frequencies are lost through these.
They are a little too big or bulky to carry around.

Final Verdict on the low impedance headphones:

As you already know by now the significance of low impedance headphones, they are great for headphones and highly power efficient. You can get a lot out of a small amplification and these headphones are just proof of what is said. Whatever your budget is, there is always a headphone that is suitable for you at that price point and by now, your choice should be clear.

Ziad Hossain

Engineer and Tech Journalist.Read More