The Shortlist
What we actually
recommend.
Curated picks from our reviews. Gear we've tested and can genuinely recommend for mixing and mastering on headphones.
Headphones
Kiwi Ears Altruva
Under $100
The first sub-$100 headphone we can genuinely recommend for mixing and mastering work.
Watch reviewAUNE AR5000
~£275
A dynamic headphone that outperforms Beyerdynamic and Sennheiser options at this price for mixing work.
Watch reviewVerum One MK2
LCD-X alternative
Can't afford an Audeze LCD-X? This planar delivers serious performance at a fraction of the price.
Watch reviewDACs & Amplifiers
Topping DX5ii
Budget champion
A budget DAC/amp that outperforms the $4000 Lynx Hilo 2 and flagship RME ADI in blind tests.
Watch reviewFIIO K19
Powers any headphone
The endgame DAC/amp for mixing and mastering. Enough power to drive any headphone you throw at it.
Watch reviewBest Portable DAC/Amps
For mixing on the go
Our picks for the best portable DAC/amps when you need to mix away from the studio.
Watch review
These recommendations are based on our own testing and experience.
We only recommend gear we've personally reviewed.
Watch the full reviews on our YouTube channel for the complete breakdown.