Due to the pandemic, over the last year people around the world have had to adjust to new working environments, whether it’s from their living room, a hybrid workspace, or back in the office. No matter where you’re working, it’s important to remain productive. Whether you’re working from the comfort of your own home or in the office, we’ve rounded up some of the best music and gear to keep the productivity flowing.

The Power of Music

Music is more than just a means of entertainment. A 2019 study found that music can activate reward centers in your brain. In other words, listening to your favorite music gives you that motivation you need whether it’s learning a new skill, or for everyday work.

Due to COVID-19, a survey at VeryWell Mind reported that 79% of people, the majority of which were probably working from home, turned to music to cope with the stress of the pandemic. Because music has been proven to trigger for a variety of chemical reactions, like stress-relief to motivation, it’s no wonder why so many have turned to music. According to research, when you are in a positive mindset or a good mood, it improves your outcomes.

Music Genres and Their Effects

Classical Music

If you are in need of motivation, studies have shown classical music can help to complete tasks more efficiently. A theory called “the Mozart Effect” suggests that classical music acts as a catalyst in the brain by enhancing brain activity. This activity is suggested to improve a person's health and overall well-being.

One factor that contributes to this theory is that classical music contains no words and is strictly instrumental. Because this genre of music does not have lyrics, it’s less distracting for listeners, resulting in improved focus.

Scala Radio, a British classical music station, along with psychologist Dr. Becky Spelman performed a study to determine if background music hindered or improved work efficiency. Based on their findings, employees that completed their task of transcribing two 600-word sets of song lyrics with classical background music completed the task faster than those in silence.

Next time you’re in need of some motivation, look for a classic music playlist on Spotify, Pandora, or wherever you find your music!

Nature Music

Sounds like waves crashing, wind, or sounds of nature have proven to enhance cognitive function as well as concentration. According to research from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, natural sounds can boost mood and focus.

It’s no secret that the environment also plays a huge role in productivity. Whether you are battling distractions from working from home or an open office environment, it’s important to find the right music to counteract unwanted noise. According to a study from the Journal of the Acoustical Society of America, natural sounds like a breeze or water resulted in better employee productivity and improved workplace mood.

If you’re looking for music that boosts your mood, increases productivity, and even releases stress, try natural sounds, like Spotify’s “Atmospheric Calm” playlist.

Lo-fi Music

Lo-fi music or “low fidelity” music is great for boosting moods. This type of music is ideal for tedious tasks since it has quiet beats with relaxing nuances. Check out this Lo-fi playlist with over 22 hours of music to keep you motivated for those long workdays.

The Best Audio Gear for Productivity

To further enhance your productivity, having the right workspace and gear is essential – including audio gear! See below for everything you need to enhance your productivity, from in-ear headphones for listening to classical music and nature sounds, to turntables for your favorite background music.

The ATH-ANC300TW QuietPoint® Noise-Cancelling Headphones are perfect for reducing noise, providing extreme focus for those hectic workdays, from catching up on emails to zeroing in on a complicated report. These in-ear headphones provide 5.8 mm drivers, feature a built-in mic, and a quick hear-through function that allows you to hear outside noise when desired.

For those who prefer over-ear headphones, the ATH-ANC900BT QuietPoint® Wireless Active Noise-Cancelling Headphones are a great choice. These over-ear headphones feature digital hybrid noise-cancelling technology and are equipped with 40 mm drivers. Not only will these headphones provide a means to concentrate, but also comfort with memory-foam earpads.

The AT-LP120XBT-USB Direct-Drive Turntable is the perfect addition to an office or work-from-home space. Featuring Bluetooth wireless connectivity, a specially designed DC servo direct-drive motor, and an adjustable dynamic anti-stake control, it will fill your workspace with the music you need for the utmost productivity. Easily connect to wireless speakers, headphones, computers, stereos, and more for your preferred method of listening.