Headphones for Electronic Drum Kit

English Translation and Rewritten Version:

Which Headphones Are Best for an Electronic Drum Kit?

If you own (or are planning to buy) an electronic drum kit, you’ll definitely need a good pair of headphones. Sure, there are great speaker systems for e-drums — but one of the biggest advantages of electronic drumming is being able to play silently. That’s where headphones come in. And trust me: this is not where you want to cut corners.

Imagine spending €1500 on a quality drum kit and then plugging in a €25 pair of headphones. It just doesn’t do your kit justice. You won’t get the sound detail or the immersive feel that a good set of headphones can provide — and that directly affects your playing experience.

Frequency Response: Feel the Kick

Headphones for drumming need to reproduce low frequencies well — especially for the kick drum, which often goes as low as 20Hz (the very bottom of human hearing). While most headphones handle high frequencies well (typically up to 20kHz), it’s the sub-bass where many cheap models fall short. A proper pair will let you actually feel the groove, not just hear it.

Comfort: Drum for Hours Without Discomfort

Drumming sessions can easily last an hour or more, so comfort is crucial. Everyone’s head is shaped differently, so try to find a fit that works for you. Look for headphones with soft ear pads and a well-balanced headband. If they start pinching after five minutes, they’re not the right ones for your practice sessions.

Types of Headphones

There are three main types:

In-ear – Small earbuds that go inside the ear canal
On-ear – Sit directly on top of the ears
Over-ear – Enclose the ears completely

For drumming, on-ear and over-ear headphones are best. Just make sure they’re cushioned well, especially for on-ear models, since they press directly on the ears.

Open vs Closed-Back

There’s also a key design difference:

Closed-back headphones – Block outside noise and prevent sound leakage
Open-back headphones – Let ambient sound in and out

For playing drums, especially at higher volume or with others nearby, closed-back headphones are the better choice. They give you more isolation and focus.

So, Which Headphones Should You Get?

Several music retailers offer dedicated lists of headphones specifically chosen for electronic drumming. These models are optimized for sound clarity, punchy bass, and long-term comfort.

If you’re serious about your e-drumming experience, don’t treat your headphones as an afterthought. They’re just as important as the kit itself.