Updated: April 2025
Audiophile headphones don’t have to cost $1,000+ to sound incredible. In fact, there are some seriously impressive options under $300 that deliver wide soundstages, deep clarity, and rich detail — whether you’re listening to jazz, electronic, rock, or even just high-quality streaming.
We’ve put together a hand-picked list of the best audiophile headphones under $300 in 2025, all tested, reviewed, and praised by the audio community. Each one offers standout value and excellent sound for the price.
Whether you’re building a home listening setup or just want to hear your favorite tracks the way they were meant to sound, these headphones deliver — and they’re all available through trusted retailers like Amazon, Sweetwater, and B&H.
🔝 Quick Picks
| Headphone | Type | Price (Approx.) | Top Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sennheiser HD 600 | Open-back | ~$299 | Natural, reference-grade sound |
| HIFIMAN HE400se | Planar Magnetic | ~$109 | Entry-level planar clarity |
| Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro | Open-back | ~$169 | Sparkling highs, studio staple |
| Audio-Technica ATH-R70x | Open-back | ~$299 | Lightweight + flat response |
| Meze 99 Classics | Closed-back | ~$309 (watch for sales) | Stylish and warm-sounding |
Click any headphone name to check live pricing and availability → Amazon Deals Page
🎧 1. Sennheiser HD 600 – Legendary Clarity for Under $300
- Type: Open-back
- Impedance: 300Ω
- Price: ~$299
- Rating: ★★★★★ (4.7/5 – Rtings)
The HD 600 is one of those rare headphones that audiophiles and audio engineers both swear by. The sound is incredibly natural and neutral, with a wide soundstage and excellent instrument separation.
✅ Why it’s great: Transparent mids, industry-standard accuracy
⚠️ Heads-up: Needs an amp to shine
🔗 Check price on Amazon | See more on Sweetwater
🔊 2. HIFIMAN HE400se – Planar Magic at a Budget
- Type: Planar Magnetic
- Impedance: 25Ω
- Price: ~$109
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.3/5 – Rtings)
If you’ve never heard planar magnetic headphones before, the HE400se is a game-changer. The sound is fast, punchy, and surprisingly spacious for the price.
✅ Why it’s great: Planar sound for the price of regular dynamics
⚠️ Heads-up: Build quality isn’t premium
🔗 View current deal on Amazon | Buy direct from HIFIMAN
🌀 3. Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro – Bright, Detailed & Studio-Ready
- Type: Open-back
- Impedance: 250Ω
- Price: ~$169
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.5/5 – Head-Fi)
A favorite in studios and home setups alike, the DT 990 Pro is known for its ultra-clear highs and wide, immersive soundstage.
✅ Why it’s great: Bright and detailed with tons of clarity
⚠️ Heads-up: Can be fatiguing for treble-sensitive ears
🔗 Check on Amazon | See Sweetwater’s price
🎚️ 4. Audio-Technica ATH-R70x – Lightweight Studio Precision
- Type: Open-back
- Impedance: 470Ω
- Price: ~$299
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.4/5 – What Hi-Fi)
Designed for professional audio work, the R70x is incredibly light for an open-back headphone. It offers a neutral, detailed sound ideal for mixing or mastering.
✅ Why it’s great: Super lightweight, studio-accurate response
⚠️ Heads-up: Needs an amp to sound its best
🔗 View on Amazon | Check official Audio-Technica store
💼 5. Meze 99 Classics – Style + Sound That Stands Out
- Type: Closed-back
- Impedance: 32Ω
- Price: ~$309 (watch for sales)
- Rating: ★★★★☆ (4.6/5 – Headphonesty)
Beautiful design meets warm, immersive sound. The Meze 99 Classics are stylish, easy to drive, and perfect for casual audiophile listening.
✅ Why it’s great: Gorgeous design, warm tone, no amp needed
⚠️ Heads-up: Not for those wanting a clinical, flat sound
🔗 See latest price on Amazon | Buy direct from Meze Audio