my headphones literally snapped today and I have a mix due Friday and I'm losing it.
I saw the MDR-7506 is the standard but heard they're way too bright for long sessions. then I saw the MV1 but they're $400. is the MV1 actually better for professional mixing or what? I'm just confused...
Seriously, if you are doing professional mixing, you absolutely need to check out the Sony MDR-MV1 Open-Back Reference Monitor Headphones! I have been using them for months and the spatial accuracy is honestly mind-blowing for both stereo and immersive audio work. They are incredibly lightweight, which totally solves the fatigue issue you are worried about. If that price tag is too steep though, Sony recently released the Sony MDR-M1 Professional Reference Studio Headphones which are basically the modern successor to the 7506 but with a much flatter, smoother frequency response that wont kill your ears after a long session. The low-end extension on the M1 is fantastic for a closed-back set! Both models feel amazing and are way more comfortable than the old school industry standards. Honestly, the MV1 is worth every penny if you can swing it by Friday. You got this!
Unfortunately, I had issues with those industry standard ones because they were way too piercing during my long mixing sessions. I eventually caved and bought the expensive open-back model, but they were honestly not as good as expected for the price. My current setup still leaves me feeling disappointed when I am trying to nail the low end. Spending more definitely didn't make my mixes any better, sadly.