Transcription is the process of listening to an audio or video recording and writing down what is said. This can be a very important task for businesses, especially those in the legal field. In order to ensure accuracy, it is important to use headphones that are specifically designed for transcription.
In this article, I will discuss what makes a headphone ideal for transcription and why it’s so important to have a good pair of headphones when transcribing audio files. I will also recommend five of the best headphones for transcription you can buy in 2023!
| # | Best Transcription Headphones | Price |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Check Price |
| 2 | Sony MDR-7506 | Check Price |
| 3 | ECS WordSmith Transcription Headset | Check Price |
| 4 | Bose Quiet Comfort 35 II | Check Price |
| 5 | Sennheiser HD 558 | Check Price |
Best Headphones for transcription in 2023
There are a few factors to consider when looking for headphones for transcription.
First, the headphones should be comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. Second, the headphones should have good sound quality so that you can hear the recording clearly. Third, the headphones should be able to block out background noise so that you can focus on the task at hand.
1. Audio-Technica ATH-M50x
If you’re looking for one of the best headphones for transcription, the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x is an excellent option. It offers the great sound quality, with clear highs and mids, and it’s also very comfortable to wear. The headphones are well-built and durable, and they come with a detachable cable, which is a plus.
The Audio-Technica ATH-M50X headphones are critically acclaimed for their sonic performance, which has been praised by top audio engineers and pro audio reviewers. Their 45mm drivers deliver accurate sound, making them an ideal choice for transcription. Additionally, their detachable cable ensures that you can easily keep your headphones in good condition.
Circumaural design contours around the ears for excellent sound isolation in loud environments, making them a great choice for busy professionals. Additionally, the earcups are 90 degrees swiveling, so you can easily wear them on one ear for transcription purposes. Finally, their professional-grade earpads and headband material make them more comfortable and durable, so you can use them for long periods of time.
Speaking of the cables; The Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones come with two detachable cables: a coiled 1.2 m – 3.0 m (3.9′ – 9.8′) coiled cable and 1.2 m (3.9′) straight cable. This ensures that you always have a cable that’s compatible with your environment, whether you’re at home or in the office.
The 38-ohm impedance of the headphone makes it a great choice for use with portable devices like mobile phones and tablets. You don’t need to use an extra amplifier to get the maximum volume out of your device, making it a convenient option for on-the-go transcription. Additionally, its 3.5mm connector is compatible with mobile devices and PC/laptops.
Lastly, the amazing thing about the Audio-Technica ATH-M50x headphones is that they’re the #1 seller on Amazon with 15,226 + ratings. This is an incredible accomplishment and goes to show how popular and well-loved these headphones are. Overall, Audio-Technica ATH M50x is my favorite choice for transcription.
2. Sony MDR7506 – Best Headphone Under $100
The Sony MDR7506 is another best headphone for transcription. MDR750 headphones have long been a favorite for both professional and home use. They’re a great choice for transcription because of their neodymium magnets and 40-millimeter drivers, which deliver powerful, detailed sound.
The closed-ear design provides comfort and outstanding reduction of external noises, while the cord ends in a gold-plated plug. The headphones fold up for storage or travel in the provided soft case. They have a frequency response of from 20 Hertz to 20 kilohertz.
Additionally, the headphone has a nice headband with soft padding and deep earcups that make them extremely comfortable to wear. Ears can stay inside the ear cups without having to touch the back, so they won’t get warm or uncomfortable.
The headphone does not have a detachable cable, which is its only drawback. Even so, the cable is very strong, and there are no complaints of it being bad quality or broken. Furthermore, the length of 9.8 feet with a 1/4 inch adapter is perfect for transcription work.
In terms of sound quality, they sound balanced, which is a necessity for transcription work. They have a 10Hz to 20kHz frequency response and 106 dB/W/m sensitivity. Moreover, the headphones have an impedance of 63 ohms, so they’ll sound good on mobile devices or low-power devices, as well, but having a dedicated amp will improve sound quality and clearance.
Overall Sony MDR 7506 is an excellent choice for transcription headphones because of the combination of comfort, portability, and sound quality. Most importantly if you’re looking for the best transcription headphone under $100, then definitely check the Sony MDR-7506.
3. ECS WordSmith Transcription Headset
If you’re looking for a quality transcription in-ear headset, the ECS WordSmith is an excellent option. It features a noise-canceling microphone and superior sound quality, making it perfect for clear and accurate transcription.
Additionally, it’s lightweight and comfortable to wear, making it a great choice for extended use. Plus, it only costs under $50, making it an affordable option for any budget.
In addition to transcription, it is excellent for listening to music and watching movies. Moreover, the headset amplifies the audio of low-quality or low-volume transcriptions very well, so you can hear them clearly even if the audio is inaudible.
Regarding their comfort, these are very lightweight, easy to use, and since there is no headband, the head will not feel any pressure, so they are quite comfortable. There are four different ear tips available, allowing you to select one that is most comfortable for you.
I like the design of the earbuds and they fit well in my ears. You won’t feel any discomfort after transcribing hours of audio.
When it comes to noise isolation, the earbuds are not as good as headphones, but they do isolate a fair amount of noise once the audio is played. The cable of the ECS WordSmith Transcription headset is approximately 10 feet long and includes a remote control.
Last but not least, as I mentioned earlier, the headset is capable of picking up the low and poor audio quality and amplifying it, so you will hear it louder. When you plug it into your computer, keep the volume at a low level and then increase or decrease so you can hear the audio clearly.
In any case, it is a great headset for transcriptions and costs between $40 and $50, so if you’re interested in an earphone, give ECS WordSmith a shot.
4. Bose Quiet Comfort 35 II
Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones are a top pick for anyone looking for headphones ideal for transcription work. They deliver exceptional sound quality, with clear audio and voice pick-up.
Additionally, they feature three levels of world-class noise cancellation, so you can focus on your work in any environment. The headphones are also Alexa-enabled, so you can access music, information, and more with just your voice. While writing, you can search through your voice and immediately get the results, which enhances the work efficiency.
And to make them even more versatile, they come with a Bose AR-enabled — an innovative, audio-only version of augmented reality. With the Bose Connect app, you can easily pair your headphones, customize settings, and access future updates.
Speaking of battery life, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones offer up to 20 hours of listening time. So you can work all day without having to worry about recharging.
In terms of comfort, the headphones feature soft ear cushions and a headband that evenly distribute pressure. As a result, you can wear them for hours without experiencing any discomfort. Control buttons are also conveniently located on the ear cups, so you can easily adjust the volume or skip tracks.
So if you’re looking for the best wireless headphones for transcription work in 2022, the Bose QuietComfort 35 II Wireless Bluetooth Headphones should be at the top of your list.
5. Sennheiser HD 558
When it comes to headphones perfect for transcription work, how can Sennheiser not be on the list? And for transcription Sennheiser HD 558 Headphones is an excellent option.
They offer an audiophile-grade listening experience, with rich audio and a sound reflector that immerses you in the music. The open-back design also allows for a natural soundstage and exceptional clarity. However, if you plan to use them in a noisy environment, you should consider closed-back headphones as an open-back design will let not allow you to focus on the audio which is definitely you don’t want.
But if you work in a quiet environment you should consider the Sennheiser HD558 headphones(open back). The open-back design is more comfortable for long listening sessions and they provide an exceptional sound quality that is perfect for transcription work.
Additionally, the headphones have a field-strengthened neodymium ferrous magnet system, which delivers exceptional sound quality.
The headphones also have a twist and lock single-sided cable that eliminates tangles and makes exchanges quick and easy. Plus, the gold-plated 1/4 inch plug with a 1/8 inch adapter ensures a high level of connectivity. And to top it all off, the Sennheiser HD 558 headphones come with a two-year warranty.
So if you’re in the market for open-back headphones that are perfect for transcription work, the Sennheiser HD558 Headphones should be at the top of your list.
Buying Guide: Look For these 5 things in a transcription headphone
1. The headphone you choose should be comfortable
For transcription work, it is important to find headphones that are comfortable to wear for extended periods of time. The headphones should be lightweight and have a cushioned earpiece so that they do not cause fatigue or discomfort. The headband should be adjustable so that it can be customized for a comfortable fit.
You may want to consider over-ear headphones rather than earbuds, as they tend to be more comfortable.
2. How a headphone for transcription Sound
The most important factor to consider when looking for transcription headphones is sound quality. You want to be able to hear the audio recording clearly so that you can accurately transcribe what is being said. Look for headphones that have good sound reproduction and offer a clear, crisp sound.
3. Choosing between In/On/Over-Ear headphones For transcription
The three main types of headphone designs are in-ear, on-ear, and over-ear.
In-ear headphones are small and compact, making them easy to carry around with you. They fit snugly into your ear and can provide good sound quality. However, they can be uncomfortable to wear for extended periods of time.
On-ear headphones are larger than in-ear headphones, but they offer more comfort. They sit on top of your ears and have cushioned ear cups. On-ear headphones can also provide good sound quality.
Over-ear headphones are the largest type of headphones. They cover your entire ear and provide the best sound quality. However, they can be bulky and heavy to wear.
If you plan on using your headphones for transcription purposes, comfort and sound isolation are key. You will likely be wearing your headphones for long periods of time, so it is important to choose a design that is comfortable and provide you with some kind of noise isolation. In my opinion, over-ear headphones are the best type to use for transcription as they can provide the best sound quality and noise isolation.
4. Importance of Noise Isolation/Cancellation
The headphones should also be able to block out background noise so that you can focus on the task at hand. Look for headphones that come with a noise-canceling feature to reduce ambient sounds. This will help you stay focused on the recording and avoid any distractions.
5. Build Quality and Price
Build quality and durability are important factors to consider when looking for headphones for transcription. Look for headphones that are well-made and designed to withstand everyday use. Additionally, look for headphones that come with a warranty in case of any defects.
Finally, consider the price of the headphones. transcription headphones can range in price, so find a pair that is within your budget. However, it is important to remember that you get what you pay for and quality headphones typically cost more than lower-quality ones.
Conclusion
It’s important to have the right headphones for transcription, which will make your work easier and more efficient. As you can see from our list of the 5 best headphones for transcription in 2022, there are plenty of options available- even if these aren’t necessarily designed specifically with transcription in mind.
It’s up to you what type or design is most important to you and how much you want to invest; this guide should help point out some good choices that fit a variety of budgets.