Are you tired of the modern-looking retro headphones that seem to dominate the market? Do you want something that looks classic and cool at the same time? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be showcasing the 10+ best retro headphones that are perfect for any music lover. From sleek designs to outstanding sound quality, these headphones are guaranteed to take you back in time while still keeping up with the latest technology.
What are Retro Headphones?
Retro headphones, also known as vintage headphones, are a type of headphones that harken back to the design and style of headphones from a bygone era. These headphones are often characterized by their classic, simplistic aesthetic, which is often made from materials such as leather, metal, and wood. Retro headphones typically have a large, over-ear design, with large ear cups that cover the entire ear. They may also feature a coiled cord, which was a common design element in older headphones. In terms of sound quality, retro headphones can vary widely depending on the model and manufacturer, but many audiophiles appreciate the warm, rich sound that these headphones are known for.
What are the benefits of using Retro Headphones?
Retro headphones, also known as vintage or classic headphones, offer a variety of benefits that make them attractive to many people, including:
- Style: Retro headphones have a unique and classic look that appeals to many people who are interested in vintage or retro style. They can add a touch of nostalgia and personality to your audio setup.
- Durability: Many retro headphones are built with high-quality materials, such as metal and leather, which make them more durable and long-lasting than modern headphones.
- Sound quality: Some retro headphones are known for their superior sound quality, particularly when it comes to reproducing analog audio. They can provide a warm, full-bodied sound that some people find more enjoyable than the digital sound produced by modern headphones.
- Comfort: Many retro headphones feature a padded headband and ear cups that can provide a comfortable fit for long listening sessions. They may also be less likely to cause ear fatigue or discomfort than some modern headphones.
- Affordability: Depending on the brand and model, retro headphones can be more affordable than modern high-end headphones with similar features.
Why are Retro Headphones still relevant?
Retro headphones are still relevant because they offer a unique combination of style, comfort, and sound quality that is hard to find in modern headphones. Many people appreciate the classic design of retro headphones, which often features large, over-ear cups and a headband that harkens back to the golden age of audio equipment. This vintage look has become fashionable again in recent years, particularly among those who value individuality and a sense of nostalgia.
Here Are The Top 10+ Best Retro Headphones
Now that we’ve covered the basics, let’s dive into the main topic. Here are the 10+ best retro headphones in 2023:
1. Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones Black
Product Details:
| Brand | Audio-Technica |
| Color | Black |
| Model Name | ATH-AD700X |
| Product Dimensions | 11 x 5 x 88 inc |
| Item Weight | 1.25 pounds |
Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X is a premium set of headphones designed for audiophiles who seek an immersive sound experience. With an open-air design, these headphones provide a wide and natural soundstage, allowing users to hear their music as if they were in a concert hall. The headphones feature 53 mm drivers with copper-clad aluminum wire voice coils that produce crystal-clear audio with deep, accurate bass and detailed highs. The ATH-AD700X also comes with a 3D wing support system that ensures a comfortable fit for extended listening sessions. Whether you’re a music producer, gamer, or just a music enthusiast, the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X headphones are an excellent choice for an immersive audio experience.
2. Koss Pro-4AA Studio Quality Headphones, Standard Packaging,Black,Full-Size
Product Details:
| Brand | Koss |
| Color | Black |
| Model Name | Pro-4AA |
| Product Dimensions | 7.87 x 5.12 x 1.97 inc |
| Item Weight | 1.85 pounds |
The Koss Pro-4AA Studio Quality Headphones are a popular choice for audiophiles, professional musicians, and sound engineers. These full-size headphones offer excellent sound quality and a durable design that can withstand the demands of daily use in a studio or on the go. The headphones feature a closed-back design that provides excellent noise isolation, allowing you to focus on your music or audio work without being distracted by external sounds. With a standard packaging and sleek black finish, the Koss Pro-4AA headphones are a classic and timeless choice for those who demand high-quality audio performance.
3. Monoprice – 116150 Modern Retro Over Ear Headphones with Ultra-Comfortable Ear Pads Perfect for Mobile Devices, HiFi, and Audio/Video Production Black
Product Details:
| Brand | Monoprice |
| Color | Black |
| Model Name | 116150 |
| Product Dimensions | 9.5 x 9.15 x 4.7 inc |
| Item Weight | 1.1 pounds |
The Monoprice 116150 Modern Retro Over Ear Headphones are a popular choice for audio enthusiasts who want high-quality sound at an affordable price. These headphones are designed with ultra-comfortable ear pads that make them perfect for extended listening sessions on mobile devices or during audio/video production. The sleek black design adds a touch of modernity to their retro-inspired look. The headphones are versatile and can be used for a range of purposes, including HiFi listening, podcasting, or gaming. With their impressive sound quality and comfortable fit, the Monoprice 116150 headphones are an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable and affordable audio solution.
4. HamiltonBuhl SchoolMate Deluxe Stereo Headphone Gray with 3.5mm Plug
Product Details:
| Brand | HamiltonBuhl |
| Color | Gray/Black |
| Model Name | HA7 |
| Product Dimensions | 3.5 x 8.5 x 7.25 inc |
| Item Weight | 8 ounces |
The HamiltonBuhl SchoolMate Deluxe Stereo Headphone in Gray with a 3.5mm plug is a high-quality audio accessory designed for students and educators. With superior sound quality and durability, these headphones are perfect for use in educational environments such as classrooms, computer labs, and libraries. The headphones feature an adjustable headband and soft ear cushions for comfortable wear, even during extended listening sessions. They also have a 6-foot cord and a gold-plated 3.5mm plug for easy connection to various devices. Whether used for listening to educational materials, multimedia presentations, or music, the HamiltonBuhl SchoolMate Deluxe Stereo Headphone is an excellent choice for any educational setting.
5. Koss Porta Pro Limited Edition Rhythm Beige On-Ear Headphones, in-Line Microphone, Volume Control and Touch Remote Control, Includes Hard Carrying Case, Wired with 3.5mm Plug, Rhythm Beige
Product Details:
| Brand | Koss |
| Color | Beige |
| Model Name | Porta Pro |
| Product Dimensions | 7.44 x 6.34 x 3.11 inc |
| Item Weight | 1.01 pounds |
The Koss Porta Pro Limited Edition Rhythm Beige On-Ear Headphones are a stylish and practical choice for anyone in need of high-quality headphones. These headphones are designed with an in-line microphone, volume control, and touch remote control for easy use. The set also comes with a hard carrying case for easy portability. The wired headphones have a 3.5mm plug for universal compatibility with most devices. The Rhythm Beige color adds a touch of sophistication to the headphones, making them suitable for use in any setting. In this article, we will take a closer look at the features of the Koss Porta Pro Limited Edition Rhythm Beige On-Ear Headphones and explore what makes them an excellent choice for music lovers and audiophiles alike.
6. Panasonic Retro Bluetooth Wireless Headphone With Microphone, Deep Bass Enhancer, 24 Hours Playback – RP-HTX80B-H (Matte Steel)
Product Details:
| Brand | Panasonic |
| Color | Gray |
| Model Name | RP-HTX80B-H |
| Product Dimensions | 3.7 x 7.9 x 10.2 inc |
| Item Weight | 15.2 ounces |
The Panasonic Retro Bluetooth Wireless Headphone with Microphone, Deep Bass Enhancer, 24 Hours Playback – RP-HTX80B-H (Matte Steel) is an exceptional pair of headphones that offer a perfect blend of modern technology and retro design. These headphones are wireless, allowing users to move around freely without any wires getting in their way. The deep bass enhancer ensures that the user can enjoy their music to the fullest, while the 24 hours playback time ensures that they can listen to their favorite tunes for an extended period of time without having to worry about recharging. The RP-HTX80B-H (Matte Steel) headphones are an excellent choice for music lovers who want a stylish and high-quality pair of headphones that deliver superior sound quality.
7. House of Marley Positive Vibration 2: Over-Ear Headphones with Microphone, Wireless Bluetooth Connectivity, and 10 Hours of Playtime (Black)
Product Details:
| Brand | House of Marley |
| Color | Black |
| Model Name | Positive Vibration |
| Product Dimensions | 8.63 x 8.13 x 3.75 inc |
| Item Weight | 4.7 ounces |
The House of Marley Positive Vibration 2 over-ear headphones are a stylish and eco-friendly option for music lovers who value high-quality sound and sustainability. These headphones feature wireless Bluetooth connectivity, allowing for seamless pairing with smartphones, laptops, and other Bluetooth-enabled devices. The headphones also come equipped with a built-in microphone, making it easy to take calls while on the go. With up to 10 hours of playtime, these headphones are perfect for long listening sessions, and their comfortable, over-ear design ensures a snug and secure fit. Plus, with their sleek black finish and distinctive House of Marley branding, these headphones are sure to turn heads wherever you go.
8. JLab Rewind Wireless Retro Headphones | Bluetooth 4.2 | 12 Hours Playtime | Custom EQ3 Sound | Music Controls | Noise Isolation | with Microphone | Throwback 80s 90s Design | Black
Product Details:
| Brand | JLab |
| Color | Black |
| Form Factor | On Ear |
| Product Dimensions | 5.91 x 1.06 x 3.54 inc |
| Item Weight | 2.01 ounces |
The JLab Rewind Wireless Retro Headphones are a perfect combination of vintage style and modern technology. With Bluetooth 4.2 connectivity, 12 hours of playtime, and custom EQ3 sound, these headphones offer an immersive listening experience. The throwback 80s 90s design adds a touch of nostalgia to your music listening sessions. In addition to providing excellent sound quality, the JLab Rewind headphones also feature music controls, noise isolation, and a built-in microphone, making them perfect for on-the-go use. Whether you’re listening to your favorite tunes or taking a phone call, the JLab Rewind Wireless Retro Headphones are sure to provide an enjoyable and comfortable experience.
9. Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphone, Black
Product Details:
| Brand | Marshall |
| Color | Black |
| Model Name | 1005773 |
| Product Dimensions | 6.3 x 6.3 x 3.4 inc |
| Item Weight | 6.3 ounces |
The Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphone in Black is a sleek and stylish audio accessory that combines high-quality sound with exceptional comfort. Designed with the iconic Marshall aesthetic, these headphones boast a durable, ergonomic design that makes them perfect for use at home or on the go. With advanced Bluetooth technology, they allow for seamless wireless connectivity, and their long battery life ensures that you can enjoy your music for hours on end. Whether you’re a music aficionado or simply looking for a reliable pair of headphones, the Marshall Major IV On-Ear Bluetooth Headphone is sure to impress.
10. Koss QZ-99 Noise Reduction Stereophone, Standard Packaging
Product Details:
| Brand | Koss |
| Color | Black |
| Model Name | Noise-Cancelling-Feature |
| Product Dimensions | 8.63 x 4.13 x 8.38 inc |
| Item Weight | 15 ounces |
The Koss QZ-99 noise reduction stereophone is a high-quality audio accessory that has been designed to provide users with a superior listening experience. This innovative product uses advanced noise-cancelling technology to block out background noise, allowing users to focus on their music or audio without any distractions. With its comfortable over-ear design and high-fidelity sound, the Koss QZ-99 is the perfect choice for anyone looking to enjoy their audio in peace and quiet. This product comes in standard packaging and is designed to be easy to use and set up, making it an ideal choice for both casual listeners and audiophiles alike.
11. Beoplay H95 Premium Comfortable Wireless Active Noise Cancelling (ANC) Over-Ear Headphones with 38 Hours Battery Life and Protective Carrying Case, Chestnut
Product Details:
| Brand | Bang & Olufsen |
| Color | Chestnut |
| Model Name | H95 |
| Product Dimensions | 7.8 x 7 x 2 inc |
| Item Weight | 11.4 ounces |
The Beoplay H95 is a premium over-ear headphone that offers exceptional comfort and advanced features for an unparalleled listening experience. With its wireless connectivity and active noise cancelling (ANC) technology, the H95 is designed to provide immersive audio and exceptional noise isolation, making it ideal for music lovers, commuters, and travelers alike. With a battery life of up to 38 hours, these headphones will last you all day without needing to be charged. The headphones are also crafted with luxurious materials, including lambskin ear cushions, anodized aluminum discs, and soft leather headband padding, and come with a protective carrying case for safe and convenient storage. Whether you’re listening to music, watching movies, or taking calls, the Beoplay H95 delivers exceptional performance and comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions About Retro Headphones
Did headphones exist in the 80s?
Yes, headphones did exist in the 1980s. In fact, headphones have been around since the late 1800s, but their popularity grew in the 20th century with the development of electronic devices such as radios, phonographs, and later on, portable cassette players and Walkmans. In the 1980s, headphones were commonly used with portable music players, and there were many different types of headphones available, from over-ear headphones to in-ear headphones.
What is the oldest pair of headphones?
The concept of headphones, which are essentially small speakers that are worn over or in the ears, dates back to the late 1800s. However, the earliest headphones were not intended for personal listening but rather for use by telephone operators and radio operators. The first commercially available headphones were the Brandes headsets, which were invented by Nathaniel Baldwin in 1910 and went on sale in 1915. These early headphones were large and bulky, and they were typically connected to their audio source by a cord.
What is BTS headphone?
BTS headphones refer to headphones that are designed and marketed by or in collaboration with the South Korean boy band BTS. BTS has collaborated with various headphone brands to release limited edition headphones featuring their branding and design elements. These headphones are typically marketed towards BTS fans and are often sold in limited quantities.
Conclusion
We hope this buying guide will help you find the best retro headphones to suit your requirements. If you want our recommendation, go for the Audio-Technica ATH-AD700X Audiophile Open-Air Headphones. The metal honeycomb casing and 3D Wing Support that contours to your head design set these retro-styled headphones out from the rest.
Happy Shopping!
