Pioneer DJ HRM-6 Review – Outstanding Transparency from Sub-$200 Cans

Design:
Features:
Performance:
Value:

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While not subject to the same attention as some of the other models on our chart of the best studio headphones under $200, this pair of DJ HRM-6’s from Pioneer certainly demand respect. Part of the Japanese brands’ Studio Monitor Series, they promise ‘complete clarity and comfort’. Let’s see if they deliver where it matters the most…

Design

The DJ HRM-6s are one stylish pair of headphones. While the design is relatively basic – and very similar to the cheaper HRM-5s – the simplicity of them resonates with us and they have the air of a higher-end pair. The adjustable stainless-steel headband is rugged but flexible, and features ample cushioning – as do the ear pads, which are made with soft leather outers and memory foam padding. These are over-ear closed-back cups, with very good noise isolating capabilities.

With a nice fit, it’s a very comfortable set, which bodes well if you are planning to spend countless hours in the studio. The earcups swivel, allowing for single-ear listening, while the whole pair folds down into a neat package for easy storage. The overall build is very sturdy too – better quality than the HRM-5s, as you’d expect for the higher price.

Features

Starting with the tech specs and the DJ HRM-6s feature 40mm HD driver units, which accurately reproduce frequencies of up to 40 kHz, while taking a lot of volume (maximum input of 2,000mW). They feature a slightly higher impedance of 45 ohms, compared to the 32 ohms of the HRM-5s.

Meanwhile, in the box, it’s cable overload with both a 1.2-meter coiled cable (extending to 3-meters) and a 3-meter straight cable, as well as a shorter 1.2-meter straight cable, which is very handy for listening on the go without getting tangled up. On that note, this pair comes with its own leatherette carrying pouch and a screw-on 1/4” adapter.

Performance

While the DJ HRM-6s look and feel the part, they are backed up by outstanding performance. There’s a frequency response of 5 to 40000Hz which is great, delivering a flat sound that is balanced across the spectrum, although there is a little extra thump in the bass. The transparency and detail make them a superb partner for mixing and monitoring sessions in the studio. They aren’t completely noise-cancelling (there is a tiny bit of bleed), but due to the noise-isolating design, they make for an excellent choice for mixing on the go.

Conclusion

While the casual listener should probably look elsewhere, the flat, detailed sound reproduction on offer from the DJ HRM-6s is just the ticket for DJs, music makers and sound engineers needing transparency both in the studio and on the go. Pioneer live up to their promises! With a solid build, great comfort and pro clarity, they prove great value at under $200.

You can watch more on Pioneer’s Studio Monitor Series in the video below:

For more info about the Pioneer DJ HRM-6, click here.
For more Studio Headphones Under $200, click here.