How to Get the Best Bass from Your Headphones
Try these adjustments before buying new headphones.
1Headphone Selection and Fit
Closed-back headphones and tightly sealed earbuds are the best options for bass. Open-back headphones offer natural sound but aren't ideal for punchy bass. The size and material of ear tips matter too. Foam tips can provide better seal than silicone. Software-based fit tests, like Apple's for AirPods Pro, can also be helpful.
2Check Your Headphone Settings
Ensure your headphones comfortably cover your ears. Factors like glasses, hair, or worn-out pads can compromise the seal. Even if you can't change these, being aware of them is important. Check the EQ settings in your headphone app and start by turning off all EQ presets.
3Using EQ Settings Correctly
Stacking EQ settings is a common mistake. Boosting bass in both Spotify and Sony Sound Connect apps can lead to distorted audio. Using your music app's EQ might be a better option. Spotify, Apple Music, and YouTube Music each have different steps to access their EQ settings.
4EQ Curve Over Bass Boost
Bass boost settings might sound good briefly but quickly become fatiguing. Instead, use the EQ curve to adjust specific frequency ranges. Bass lies in low frequencies (left side of the graph). 20-60 Hz controls deep rumble, while 60-150 Hz affects punch and weight.
5Fine-Tuning and Listening Tests
Start with small boosts on the EQ curve and listen to songs across genres. If bass starts overpowering vocals or other sounds, dial it back. Test settings during long listening sessions—what sounds good in a quick test might not be ideal for extended use.
6Testing Different Listening Modes
Different modes like noise cancellation or transparency can subtly affect bass response. Spatial audio features on Apple AirPods and Bose QuietComfort Ultra can also impact bass. Test EQ settings in the modes you use most.
7Trial and Error Approach
Everyone's ears and listening habits differ. Experiment with the EQ curve to find your preferences. Aim for bass that's powerful yet controlled. Trust your impressions over longer sessions, not just quick tests.
8Time for New Headphones?
If you still can't get the bass you want after all these adjustments, it might be time to consider new headphones. Models like Sony WH-1000XM6, Sennheiser HDB 630, Bose QuietComfort Ultra (2nd gen), and AirPods Max 2 deliver strong, balanced bass.