Looking Beyond the Monoprice Monolith Closed-Back Planar Headphones? 6 Alternatives Worth a Look
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The Monoprice Monolith M565C uses a 66mm planar magnetic driver in a closed-back design. It offers strong audio isolation and studio-grade comfort for extended sessions. If you are seeking monoprice monolith over ear planar alternatives, you might want different specifications or form factors. Some users prefer open-back designs for a wider soundstage. Others need wireless connectivity or active noise cancellation. The Monolith is also quite heavy at 2.53 pounds. You may want a lighter option for portability.
This list includes 6 options that share key traits with the M565C. All selected headphones are over-ear models intended for studio use. The list covers both closed-back and open-back acoustic designs. You will find wired and wireless connectivity options. Some models use planar magnetic drivers like the original. Others rely on dynamic drivers for different sound characteristics. The alternatives were chosen because their specs overlap with the original. This ensures you can compare apples to apples. You can find a model that better fits your specific needs. The following sections break down each pair of specifications.
Our top pick: Monoprice Monolith Closed-Back Planar Headphones.
How each alternative compares
AKG K92 Closed-Back Studio Headphones
The AKG K92 is a compact over-ear option that weighs only 7.05 ounces, making it significantly lighter than the 2.53-pound Monolith M565C. It shares the closed-back acoustic design and studio focus, offering similar passive audio isolation. However, it lacks the planar magnetic driver technology, relying instead on a smaller driver size typical of budget studio headphones. This model suits users who prioritize portability and a tight fit over the expansive soundstage and high efficiency of planar designs. It is a practical choice for critical listening where weight and size matter more than driver type.
PreSonus Eris Noise Canceling Headphones
The PreSonus Eris HD10BT introduces active noise canceling and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity, features absent in the wired Monolith M565C. While both are closed-back over-ear headphones for studio use, the PreSonus model weighs 14.4 ounces, much less than the Monolith’s 2.53 pounds. It trades the planar magnetic driver for wireless convenience and electronic noise suppression. This alternative fits listeners who need to move freely or work in noisy environments where passive isolation is insufficient. It sacrifices the acoustic transparency of planar drivers for modern wireless utility and active interference reduction.
HIFIMAN Arya Unveiled Open-Back Planar Headphones
The HIFIMAN Arya Unveiled shifts from closed-back to open-back design, fundamentally changing its acoustic behavior. Like the Monolith, it uses a planar magnetic driver, but the open enclosure sacrifices audio isolation for a wider, more natural soundstage. It weighs 14.6 ounces, far lighter than the Monolith’s 2.53 pounds. This model is ideal for quiet studio environments where sound leakage is not a concern. It offers greater acoustic transparency compared to the contained sound of the M565C. Choose this if you value precise, uncolored audio reproduction over the noise-blocking benefits of a closed-back enclosure.
HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Open-Back Headphones
The HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet also features a planar magnetic driver, matching the Monolith’s driver type. However, it uses an open-back design, unlike the M565C’s closed-back structure. This provides better acoustic detail but less noise isolation. Weighing 15.2 ounces, it is significantly lighter than the 2.53-pound Monolith. The stealth magnet technology aims for precise audio playback. This alternative suits audiophiles and studio users who prioritize sound accuracy and lightweight comfort. It is the better choice if you work in a controlled, quiet space where isolation is less critical than driver performance and physical weight.
HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones
The HIFIMAN Sundara is a closed-back planar magnetic headphone, sharing the acoustic design and driver type with the Monolith M565C. It uses stealth magnet technology and a thin diaphragm for high-fidelity sound. Weighing 15.2 ounces, it is much lighter than the Monolith’s 2.53 pounds. It is wired-only, matching the Monolith’s connectivity. This model fits listeners who want planar performance in a more portable package. It offers similar studio-grade precision but in a form factor that is easier to transport. Choose the Sundara if you prefer a lighter, closed-back planar option without the bulk of the M565C.
AKG K361BT Wireless Closed-Back
The AKG K361BT offers wireless Bluetooth connectivity and stereo audio, contrasting with the wired Monolith M565C. It is a closed-back over-ear headphone, similar in acoustic design, but weighs only 9.17 ounces versus 2.53 pounds. It lacks planar magnetic drivers, using standard dynamic drivers instead. This model prioritizes portability and battery life over the expansive soundstage of planar technology. It is suitable for mobile studio work where wireless convenience is essential. Pick this alternative if you need a lightweight, wireless solution for critical listening on the go, rather than the stationary, high-isolation performance of the Monolith.
Quick picks
Our 7 picks
Monoprice Monolith Closed-Back Planar Headphones
Best for: Studio monitoring and sound isolation
- Noise Cancellation
- Audio isolation
- Form Factor
- Over-ear
- Driver Size
- 66 mm
- Recommended Use
- Studio
- Acoustic Design
- Closed-Back
- Driver Type
- Planar Magnetic
View on Amazon: Monoprice Monolith Closed-Back Planar Headphones Affiliate link
The Monoprice Monolith M565C features 66 mm planar magnetic drivers in a closed-back over-ear design. This configuration provides strong audio isolation, keeping outside noise out and music in. The large faux leather earpads and padded headband support extended listening sessions. It is a practical choice for studio monitoring or critical listening in environments where sound leakage matters.
Pros
- 66 mm planar magnetic drivers for detailed audio
- Closed-back design ensures excellent audio isolation
- Large faux leather earpads for comfort
- Padded headband reduces pressure during long sessions
Cons
- Heavy build at 2.53 pounds
- No active noise cancellation, only passive isolation
- Wired connection limits portability
Good fit if
- You need to prevent sound leakage in shared spaces
- You prioritize planar magnetic driver accuracy
- You listen for extended periods in a studio
Skip if
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You prefer lightweight headphones for travel
- You need active noise cancellation technology
Verdict: Monoprice Monolith M565C Planar Headphones deliver precise planar magnetic sound with effective passive isolation, making them ideal for studio work or focused listening where sound containment is necessary.
AKG K92 Closed-Back Studio Headphones
Best for: compact studio monitoring and critical listening
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear, Circumaural
- Connectivity
- 1/8" plug, 1/4" adapter
- Driver Size
- 40mm
- Recommended Use
- Studio
- Acoustic Design
- Closed-Back
- Color
- Black
View on Amazon: AKG K92 Closed-Back Studio Headphones Affiliate link
The AKG K92 is a closed-back, circumaural headphone designed for critical listening and studio use. It features 40mm drivers and includes a 1/4" gold screw-on adapter alongside a standard 1/8" gold plug. Weighing 7.05 ounces, it offers a compact build. This model suits professionals needing reliable wired monitoring without wireless complexity.
Pros
- Closed-back acoustic design for isolation
- Includes 1/4" gold screw-on adapter
- Weighs only 7.05 ounces
- Gold-plated 1/8" plug for durability
Cons
- 40mm drivers are smaller than the 66mm planar drivers in the Monolith
- Wired connection limits mobility
- No active noise cancellation
Good fit if
- You need a lightweight studio monitor for critical listening
- You require a closed-back design for isolation
- You want a durable wired connection with gold-plated components
Skip if
- You prefer planar magnetic drivers for deep bass extension
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You want active noise cancellation
Verdict: AKG K92 Closed-Back Studio Headphones provide a compact, wired solution for studio monitoring. They fit users who prioritize isolation and portability over the large driver size found in planar alternatives.
PreSonus Eris Noise Canceling Headphones
Best for: Active noise canceling and wireless studio use
- Noise Cancellation
- Active Noise Canceling
- Form Factor
- Closed-Back, Over-Ear
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth 5.0, wired
- Driver Size
- 40 mm
- Noise Cancellation Type
- Active Noise Cancelling
- Recommended Use
- Studio
View on Amazon: PreSonus Eris Noise Canceling Headphones Affiliate link
The PreSonus Eris HD10BT offers active noise canceling in a closed-back over-ear design. It uses 40 mm drivers for sound reproduction and connects via Bluetooth 5.0 or wired. This model suits you if you need studio-quality isolation and wireless convenience. The build measures 7.5 inches high and weighs 14.4 ounces. You get reliable control over your listening environment.
Pros
- Active noise canceling reduces environmental noise
- Bluetooth 5.0 wireless connectivity
- Closed-back over-ear design for isolation
- Includes wired connectivity option
Cons
- 40 mm drivers are smaller than the 66 mm drivers in the Monolith
- Planar magnetic technology is absent from the specifications
- Heavier build at 14.4 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
Good fit if
- You need active noise canceling for focused listening
- You prefer closed-back isolation over open-back designs
- You want Bluetooth wireless freedom with wired backup
Skip if
- You require planar magnetic drivers for specific sound signatures
- You prefer ultra-lightweight headphones for long sessions
- You only want open-back acoustic designs
Verdict: PreSonus Eris HD10BT ANC Headphones provide active noise canceling and Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity in a closed-back form. This model fits you if you prioritize isolation and wireless convenience over planar magnetic driver technology.
HIFIMAN Arya Unveiled Open-Back Planar Headphones
Best for: quiet studio monitoring and critical listening
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Recommended Use
- Studio
- Acoustic Design
- Open-Back
- Driver Type
- Planar Magnetic
- Color
- Black
- Weight
- 14.6 ounces
View on Amazon: HIFIMAN Arya Unveiled Open-Back Planar Headphones Affiliate link
The HIFIMAN Arya Unveiled is an open-back, over-ear planar magnetic headphone designed for studio monitoring and critical listening. It removes the traditional grill to prevent sound wave reflection, aiming for a wider soundstage and purer audio. The driver uses a nanometer-thick diaphragm and Stealth Magnet technology for low distortion. Weighing 14.6 ounces, it offers a substantial build. You should consider this if you prioritize acoustic transparency and detailed sound reproduction in a stationary setting.
Pros
- Open-back acoustic design for a wider soundstage
- Planar magnetic driver with nanometer-thick diaphragm
- Stealth Magnet technology reduces distortion
- No grill to prevent sound wave refraction
Cons
- Open-back design allows sound leakage
- Not suitable for noisy environments
- Requires magnetic veils to protect drivers
Good fit if
- You need accurate sound for studio work
- You want detailed audio in a quiet room
- You prefer open-back planar magnetic headphones
Skip if
- You need noise isolation for travel
- You want wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You prefer closed-back headphones
Verdict: HIFIMAN Arya Unveiled Open-Back Planar Headphones are ideal for audiophiles and studio professionals seeking detailed, uncolored sound in a quiet environment. They suit listeners who value acoustic transparency over portability or noise isolation.
HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Open-Back Headphones
Best for: Studio monitoring and accurate planar magnetic playback
- Form Factor
- Over-ear
- Connectivity
- 3.5 mm, 6.35 mm
- Recommended Use
- Studio
- Driver Type
- Planar Magnetic
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 4.69 × 4.09 × 2.83 inches
View on Amazon: HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Open-Back Headphones Affiliate link
The HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet is an over-ear planar magnetic headphone designed for studio use. It features a nanometer-thickness diaphragm and acoustically invisible stealth magnets to reduce distortion. The build combines metal and high-grade plastic for durability. It includes a user-replaceable connector and a crystalline copper cable. This model suits listeners seeking accurate, full-range sound with a lightweight, adjustable fit.
Pros
- Planar magnetic driver with stealth magnet design
- Nanometer thickness diaphragm for reduced distortion
- User-replaceable 3.5 mm connector for cable swapping
- Lightweight metal and plastic construction
Cons
- Wired only with no Bluetooth connectivity
- Open-back design offers no passive noise isolation
- No included carrying case or hard shell
Good fit if
- You want accurate planar magnetic sound for studio work
- You prefer a lightweight over-ear design for long sessions
- You value user-replaceable connectors for durability
Skip if
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity for mobile use
- You require closed-back isolation for noisy environments
- You want a fully wireless portable headphone setup
Verdict: HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Over-Ear delivers precise planar magnetic audio through its stealth magnet design. It fits audiophiles and studio users who prioritize sound accuracy and lightweight comfort over wireless convenience.
HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones
Best for: Hi-fi listening and studio monitoring
- Form Factor
- Closed-Back Over-Ear
- Connectivity
- 3.5 mm, 6.35 mm
- Audio Features
- Hi-Fi
- Recommended Use
- Studio
- Driver Type
- Planar Magnetic
- Dimensions
- 12.4 × 10 × 7.05 inches
View on Amazon: HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones Affiliate link
The HIFIMAN Sundara features a closed-back planar magnetic design with stealth magnet technology. Its NEO supernano diaphragm is 80% thinner than common units, aiming for fast response and detailed imaging. The build includes hand-assembled beechwood ear cups and a detachable dual-sided 3.5mm cable. This wired headphone suits listeners seeking high-fidelity sound in a studio-oriented package.
Pros
- Stealth magnet design reduces sound reflections and diffraction.
- NEO supernano diaphragm is 80% thinner for fast response.
- Hand-assembled beechwood ear cups for acoustic benefits.
- Detachable dual-sided 3.5mm cable with 6.35mm adapter.
Cons
- Closed-back design may limit the natural soundstage of planar drivers.
- Requires an external amplifier for optimal planar magnetic performance.
- Wired-only connectivity restricts movement.
Good fit if
- You want high-resolution audio with detailed imaging.
- You prefer a closed-back design for isolation.
- You value premium materials like beechwood ear cups.
Skip if
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity.
- You require active noise cancellation.
- You want lightweight earbuds for travel.
Verdict: HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones deliver detailed, high-fidelity sound through stealth magnet technology and a thin diaphragm. They fit listeners who prioritize acoustic precision and wired connectivity over wireless convenience.
AKG K361BT Wireless Closed-Back
Best for: portable studio monitoring
- Form Factor
- Over-ear
- Battery Life
- 24 hours
- Connectivity
- Bluetooth, Wired
- Driver Size
- 50 mm
- Audio Features
- Stereo
- Recommended Use
- Studio
View on Amazon: AKG K361BT Wireless Closed-Back Affiliate link
The AKG K361BT offers closed-back over-ear listening with both Bluetooth and wired connectivity. It features 50 mm drivers and a 24-hour battery life. The design includes a foldable hinge and slow-retention foam earpads for comfort. This model suits professionals needing portable studio monitoring without the bulk of heavier planar magnetic alternatives.
Pros
- Bluetooth and wired connectivity options
- 24-hour battery life
- Foldable design with articulated hinge
- 50 mm drivers for extended bass
Cons
- Closed-back design limits soundstage width
- Smaller 50 mm drivers compared to 66 mm planar models
- Lacks active noise cancellation
Good fit if
- You need lightweight headphones for travel
- You prefer wireless convenience with wired backup
- You want closed-back isolation for studio use
Skip if
- You require open-back soundstage clarity
- You prioritize large planar magnetic drivers
- You need active noise cancellation
Verdict: AKG K361BT Lightweight Over-Ear provides reliable wireless performance and comfort for mobile studio work. It fits buyers who value portability and battery life over the expansive soundstage of open-back planar headphones.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Monoprice Monolith Closed-Back Planar Headphones | AKG K92 Closed-Back Studio Headphones | PreSonus Eris Noise Canceling Headphones | HIFIMAN Arya Unveiled Open-Back Planar Headphones | HIFIMAN Arya Stealth Magnet Open-Back Headphones | HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones | AKG K361BT Wireless Closed-Back |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Noise Cancellation | Audio isolation | not stated | Active Noise Canceling | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Form Factor | Over-ear | Over-Ear, Circumaural | Closed-Back, Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-ear | Closed-Back Over-Ear | Over-ear |
| Battery Life | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | 24 hours |
| Connectivity | not stated | 1/8" plug, 1/4" adapter | Bluetooth 5.0, wired | not stated | 3.5 mm, 6.35 mm | 3.5 mm, 6.35 mm | Bluetooth, Wired |
| Driver Size | 66 mm | 40mm | 40 mm | not stated | not stated | not stated | 50 mm |
| Noise Cancellation Type | not stated | not stated | Active Noise Cancelling | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated |
| Audio Features | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | not stated | Hi-Fi | Stereo |
| Recommended Use | Studio | Studio | Studio | Studio | Studio | Studio | Studio |
| Acoustic Design | Closed-Back | Closed-Back | Closed-Back | Open-Back | not stated | Closed-Back | Closed-Back |
| Driver Type | Planar Magnetic | not stated | not stated | Planar Magnetic | Planar Magnetic | Planar Magnetic | not stated |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | black&orange | Black |
| Dimensions | 9.84 × 10.2 × 3.94 inches | 8.66 × 4.33 × 9.25 inches | 3 × 6.25 × 7.5 inches | not stated | 4.69 × 4.09 × 2.83 inches | 12.4 × 10 × 7.05 inches | 4.33 × 8.86 × 9.25 inches |
| Weight | 2.53 pounds | 7.05 ounces | 14.4 ounces | 14.6 ounces | 15.2 ounces | 15.2 ounces | 9.17 ounces |
| Size | Headphone (Over the Ear) | K92 | One Size | einstellbar | Adjustable | adjustable | K361 |
| Model | M565C | 3169H00030 | HD10BT | Arya Unveiled | Arya Stealth Magnet Version | SUNDARA Closed-Back | K361-BT |
If you also plan to add room bass hardware, evaluate monoprice 60 watt powered subwoofer alternatives for your setup.
Frequently asked questions
Which closed-back planar headphones are best for studio work?
The HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back Planar Headphones are a strong choice for studio monitoring. They use stealth magnet technology and a thin diaphragm for high-fidelity sound. The closed-back design provides acoustic isolation, making them suitable for focused listening environments where sound leakage must be minimized.
Are there open-back planar alternatives to the Monolith?
Yes, the HIFIMAN Arya Unveiled and Arya Stealth Magnet models offer open-back designs. These headphones prioritize acoustic transparency and a wider soundstage over isolation. They are ideal for quiet studio settings where you need precise, uncolored audio without the closed-back seal of the Monolith.
What is the lightest closed-back studio headphone option?
The AKG K92 Closed-Back Studio Headphones weigh only 7.05 ounces. This makes them significantly lighter than the 2.53-pound Monolith M565C. They feature a compact over-ear form factor with a closed-back design, offering passive isolation for users who prioritize portability and comfort during extended sessions.
Do any alternatives offer active noise canceling?
The PreSonus Eris HD10BT ANC Headphones include active noise canceling technology. They combine this feature with Bluetooth 5.0 connectivity in a closed-back form. This model suits listeners who need wireless convenience and electronic isolation, differing from the passive isolation found in the planar magnetic Monolith.
Which planar headphones use stealth magnet technology?
The HIFIMAN Sundara Closed-Back and Arya Stealth Magnet models utilize stealth magnet technology. This design aims to reduce distortion and improve detail retrieval. Both options deliver precise planar magnetic audio, catering to audiophiles and studio professionals who require high accuracy and clarity in their monitoring workflow.
Is there a wireless planar headphone alternative?
The provided list does not include wireless planar magnetic headphones. The HIFIMAN Sundara and Arya models are wired only. If you require wireless convenience, the PreSonus Eris HD10BT or AKG K361BT offer Bluetooth connectivity, though they do not feature planar magnetic driver technology.
How do the HIFIMAN Arya models differ from the Monolith?
The HIFIMAN Arya Unveiled and Stealth Magnet are open-back, while the Monolith M565C is closed-back. The Arya models focus on acoustic transparency and soundstage width. The Monolith provides stronger passive isolation. Both use planar magnetic drivers, but their acoustic designs serve different monitoring environments.