Established in 1924, Beyerdynamic has had an illustrious history with too many ‘firsts’ to go into them all here. They have been at the forefront of headphone and speaker technology for a long time. There M500 proved that ribbon microphones were tough enough and could have a future. They introduced the first electrostatic headphones in 1976. In 1997 the world’s first digital microphone. They were also the Beatles’ headphone of choice for recording.
They have recently made some efforts to rebrand themselves a little. This is because they considered that most people saw them as pro-level headphones only, with big price tags. Now they have made themselves a little more consumer-friendly with affordable headphones.
They have still maintained their presence at the high end, and that will not change. But they now work in areas where the price points are lower. Now a few more of us can have the experience of working with real quality.
In the world of noise-canceling phones, they have made an impact. The ANC might not be able to compete with Bose or Sony, that is true. But most people agree that the Beyerdynamic sound beats both of them. There is no question they are at the top of the game.
Attention to detail, innovation, design techniques, and German engineering all come together. Of course, they are going to be good. We suppose all you need to see is ‘Made in Germany,’ and that’s probably going to be enough. And they are still based in Germany in Wurttemberg. They also have branches in Singapore, India and the US.
So, let’s have a closer look at some of their products and see if we can find the Best Beyerdynamic Headphones for you…
Contents
- Top 10 Best Beyerdynamic Headphones In 2023 Reviews
- 1 Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro Open Studio Headphones
- 2 Beyerdynamic T1 2nd Generation Audiophile Stereo Headphones
- 3 Beyerdynamic DT 880 Premium Stereo Headphones
- 4 Beyerdynamic DT 990
- 5 Beyerdynamic Amiron Stereo Headphones
- 6 Beyerdynamic DT 990 Premium Stereo Headphones
- 7 Beyerdynamic DT 880 Premium Special Edition
- 8 Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro Studio Headphone
- Best Beyerdynamic Headphones Buyers Guide
- So, What Are The Best Beyerdynamic Headphones?
Top 10 Best Beyerdynamic Headphones In 2023 Reviews
1
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro Open Studio Headphones
These headphones have been designed to deliver a great balanced sound. They are for Studio engineers for mixing and mastering and for musicians. They are especially for those who want a top-end performance.
The circumaural, open design creates a sound with a wide spatial platform and feels natural. This makes them ideal for use as reference phones for what engineers call ‘critical listening.’
You can choose to have two sound listening options, analytical or well-balanced, depending on your use. This is achieved by changing the supplied earpad options. They have 45mm Tesla neodymium drivers. There is a detachable cable that fits one side of the phone. You have a choice between straight or coiled cables. Both are supplied.
The listening options we have mentioned. But earpads and headband can also be replaced during long working hours. They have an SPL of 102dB and a frequency response range of 5-40,000 Hz.
They produce an accurate and powerful reproduction of the sound necessary for high-end users. Crisp and sharp highs with deep and defined bass combined with a detailed mid-range produce real sound quality.
The design ensures comfort with quality textiles used in the foam-filled ear pads and headband.
These headphones have been designed for the pros. They might not suit everyone because of the attention to sound detail. But as a provider of real quality reproduction, they are right at the top of the scale. The sounds are incredibly accurate, and you will hear things not heard before. They could be considered expensive, but if they aren’t for the professionals, who will use them?
The sound stage is just stunning, and way above what you would normally expect to hear. In short, they are a master class of headphone production and the best studio Beyerdynamic headphones. They might also be the best Beyerdynamic headphones for mixing. It might be hard to find something to out-perform these.
Pros
- Great design and engineering to produce real quality headphones.
- Extra features to ensure a balanced and critical sound performance.
Cons
- Price is going to scare some people.
2
Beyerdynamic T1 2nd Generation Audiophile Stereo Headphones
First introduced in 2010, they were well-received and went on to win an award for best high-end headphones. A few years later, we have the next version, the second generation, and nothing much had changed. That is a good thing because it didn’t need to.
The headband, once real leather, has been replaced with a leatherette material. The cable is now detachable, which is a very good chance for most people. The cable has also been covered with a textile material. For comfort levels, they are about the same. If anything, they don’t fit quite as tightly as they once did. Some might appreciate that. They are still stable on the head, though.
The main features that made these headphones so popular are still there. The lightweight aluminum construction still makes them feel good and offers stability. And the comfort level is still high. The arm adjusters still give enough scope of movement to fit any size head comfortably.
Inside, the drivers are still angled nicely to produce the accuracy of the soundstage. Tesla technology drivers still produce a powerful and defined sound. Of course, the semi-open design is still producing its variety of sound options, allowing a little ambient sound to get through to the listener.
These headphones are designed, as the first generation were, for home use. In that respect, they are excellent. The sound reproduction maybe not as critical as some other Beyerdynamic products. However, the listening quality is high, and good frequency separation allows the highs and lows to be defined and powerful, but without crowding the mids.
Sound-wise you can hear some subtle changes. The high frequencies are a little smoother than the predecessor. The bass is possibly a bit more powerful. This only goes to improve the home listening experience.
Great headphones and well worth the money you have to pay.
Pros
- Great sound and reproduction.
- Quality build with good materials.
Cons
- Very expensive for home use.
3
Beyerdynamic DT 880 Premium Stereo Headphones
The ever-popular DT880. Been around a few years now and somehow have never lost their appeal. They have always produced a classic sound that people love. The semi-open design has something to do with it. Allowing just enough ambient noise to enter without excluding it completely seems to add to the sound experience.
Another aspect that has made them remain so popular is the comfort level that is built-in. The headband is strong yet soft, and the aluminum yokes ensure plenty of adjustment and stability.
Materials have been selected very carefully, and the proof of their success is that there have been very few changes over the years. The earpads are very soft, and the velour breathes and doesn’t allow the heat to build up around the ear. The other aspect of their comfort is that whilst they are strong, they are also lightweight.
These are the 250-ohm version, which is made specifically for use at home. Then there are other versions for different uses, tracking, mixing, etc.
Being made for working with your music system at home, they have a relaxed sound. The highs and lows not attenuated too much. The bass especially is very present in the reproduction but doesn’t boom. That is one of the appealing things about these headphones. The sounds are neutral and not oppressive; they are therefore easy and comfortable to listen to.
They have a frequency range of 5-35,000 Hz and a modest SPL of 96Db.
Beyerdynamic set a standard with these headphones when they first came on the market twenty years ago. That standard still stands today. You might think the price goes through the roof. It doesn’t. The price point for these headphones is extraordinary, considering the quality.
As far as listening at home goes, these must certainly be considered as one of the Best Headphones by Beyerdynamic.
Pros
- Quality design and materials used in the manufacture and at a great price.
- Great neutral sound reproduction and high comfort level.
Cons
- Nothing we can think of.
4
Beyerdynamic DT 990
Beyerdynamics DT 990 model is one of their more budget line headphones. They are part of a range of headphones produced by Beyer that can work at studio level but do not cost a fortune.
The 990 is a circumaural open-back design that produces a wide and spacious sound. The sound is three-dimensional, and for that needs a wide platform which it certainly has. This is what makes them suitable for studio work.
Once again, Beyerdynamic has held the bass back a bit in the sound reproduction and softened the high frequencies. Both are very present in the sound, but the bass is understated, and the highs not sharp. The frequency response is 5-35,000Hz.
The comfort level is high, as it is with all Beyerdynamic headphones. They understand that if you are building headphones that might have heavy usage, they must be comfortable. These have a single cable attached to one ear cup.
The ear cups are adjustable to get the right fit, and the headband has a sprung steel design. This makes sure you get a secure fit, but as it is sprung, it fits comfortably without too much pressure on the head. They are made to be lightweight, and at only eight ounces are an unobtrusive weight.
These headphones aren’t really designed for the casual listener. They are reference headphones for studio work, albeit at a budget level. The open backs will give you more of a natural sound because they make you feel less isolated than closed earphones.
Great then for the studio engineer on a budget. We won’t say they are the best Beyerdynamic headphones for studio work. But they might be the most cost-effective as the price point is very good.
Pros
- The nice comfort level and good sound.
- Exceptional price point.
Cons
- Some won’t like the coiled cable.
5
Beyerdynamic Amiron Stereo Headphones
There are many things you can say about the quality of Beyerdynamic’s headphones. They all sound great, but sometimes the priorities of the sound are different depending on their intended market. One thing you can always say is that they are going to be comfortable to wear. No, let us change that, very comfortable. The Amiron stereo headphones are not going to prove us wrong on that one. More on this later.
Beyerdynamic is always looking for ways to improve what they offer. This model comes with a case for the headphones and their own stand.
They are an over-ear open-back design that means your listening experience at home has just reached another level. It is fair to say they bring the concert hall into your own home. And that is what they have been designed for. To deliver the best listening experience at home.
On the latest models, the transducer has had some modifications. These have reduced any vibrations caused by the sound and made the whole listening experience sharper and more accurate.
Tesla technology has made the drivers far more efficient, and the sound they reproduce is wide and expansive. High frequencies are clear and concise and not too sharp, especially at higher volumes. The bass is held under control and is audible clearly but without dominating. This leaves the mids with a pure, uncluttered sound that literally soars. A concert hall wrapped around your head!
It might not be an exaggeration to say that these are one of the most comfortable phones out there. The padding on the headband and ear cups is soft and gently rests on your head rather than gripping it. The adjustments easy to make that will fit everyone.
Great comfort and a great sound. And if the Classical concert is your thing then possibly the best classical music Beyerdynamic headphones. The price point is set about right for this kind of quality, though it will put some people off.
Pros
- Great sound for listening at home.
- Well made with a high comfort level.
Cons
- The price might put some people off.
6
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Premium Stereo Headphones
The 990 range from Beyerdynamic’s has impressed people since the 1980s. Styles change, music changes, but for many people, these are still there ‘goto’ headphones.
They are an open back design that allows outside sounds in. It also means that your sound is audible by those near you.
Many people prefer open-back headphones. The design allows air to enter the ear cups and reach the driver. This has the advantage of stopping the build-up of pressure, which will affect what you are hearing. Any little echoes inside the phones are then removed. This gives them a large soundstage and a spatial awareness that is lacking in closed phones.
They deliver a very rich sound that continues to be appreciated by a lot of people. Nice, crisp highs that are not overdone. A rich, warm bass that doesn’t threaten to overflow and mids that are clean and concise. A near-perfect listening experience that crosses the genre barricade easily and comfortably.
Comfortable, of course, as that is a design element always at the front with Beyerdynamic headphones. Soft, breathable ear pads made from velour and an adjustable headband allow you to get the perfect fit.
In case you are confused that there seem to be two DT990s, there are. One is this model, the Premium, the other the Pro. They are virtually the same, except the Premium has softer fittings for home enjoyment. The Pro has a slightly stiffer build for working in the studio where stability in movement is important. All other elements, including the transducers, are the same.
They have gold plated fittings on the 3.5mm mini-jack and the adapter. The frequency response is 15-24,000 Hz.
Still as impressive after all these years. They are still great value for money and could be the Best headphones made by Beyerdynamic.
Pros
- Good design and material in a proven product.
- The great price point for such quality of sound.
Cons
- Some will prefer a closed-back design.
7
Beyerdynamic DT 880 Premium Special Edition
Another Beyerdynamic headphone that has been around for a number of years. The 880 is another classic in their range. These have the classic Beyer semi-open design that sits rather obviously halfway between closed and open back. Allowing just a little external ambient sound to enter.
The sound is as you might expect from the 880 range. It is rather relaxed in its production and neutral sounding. An understated bass that doesn’t crowd the mids and high frequencies that are not too sharp. The mids sitting neatly between them not affected by volume increase.
A classic style for listening to the nuances of jazz and classical music. In fact, these could be the best Beyerdynamic classical music headphones. The sound is rich and warm and delivers a calm ambiance. The frequency response is 5-35,000Hz.
The comfort levels are what you expect from Beyerdynamic headphones. Earpads made from a breathable velour that helps to stop heat build-up. The over-ear design and a comfortable headband that is fully adjustable, making sure the fit is good and too tight.
This is very similar to the DT 880 headphones. The Chrome edition has all the same sound and design features as its illustrious cousin. The only real difference being in cosmetics. The two earpieces have an added chrome trim and an improved headband. They also include a very nice carry case to protect them.
Still a classic set of headphones, they carry on providing real quality of sound. Just a few upgrades on this version, making it worth considering to own a unique product.
Pros
- Quality build using quality materials with a few new extras.
- Great sound that is wide and neutral.
Cons
- None really,
8
Beyerdynamic DT 1770 Pro Studio Headphone
The DT 1770 Pro Studio headphones are an impressive set at first glance. Designed for studio work, there is something reassuringly understated in their design.
They are an over-ear closed-back design that has a tougher build than many other Beyerdynamic models. They are built with a steel headband and some tough ear cups that will withstand a heavy work schedule. Even though they might have a rugged feel to them, they are still supremely soft and comfortable to wear.
The headband is fully adjustable, and the ear cups replaceable if needed. Included with the phones are a choice of ear cup materials. Both velour and leatherette are provided. They do have a tight clamping effect with the fit, but that is for stability.
They have a wide frequency range of 5Hz to 40kHz and a high SPL. This should allow you to make good decisions about what you’re hearing. The detail is clear and the dynamics powerful, so if you are using them in the studio, those decisions are made easier.
The 45mm Tesla neodymium drivers ensure that every nuance in the sound is clear. Whether you are recording live or listening to playback, the detail is excellent. Given the accuracy of reproduction, they are also ideal for mixing and mastering. They could easily be thought of as the best Beyerdynamic headphones for studio work.
They are a great sounding headphone for studio work. The frequencies are balanced, and the sounds are neutral and clear, as you would expect from a Beyerdynamic quality product.
It has two detachable cables, coiled and straight, that are three meters long. It comes with a carrying bag.
Pros
- Great build with a tough, sturdy working profile.
- Studio quality sound reproduction.
Cons
- Some might think them expensive.
Best Beyerdynamic Headphones Buyers Guide
Choosing The Beyerdynamic Headphones To Suit
When you decide to upgrade and to buy real quality, it is a daunting experience. There is a lot to choose from, and the price tags can be a little daunting. But before you go out and break the bank, there are a few decisions to be made. Obvious decisions possibly, but it does no harm to cover them here. The big question is, what are you buying them for? You are going to spend what might be some serious cash on headphones. You need to know what you will use them for.
There are probably two major choices. To upgrade your listening experience at home or to use it in a recording studio at whatever level you work. We will assume you are not going to use them in the gym. If you are, it could be an expensive mistake.
At Home
Your requirement for home use is likely to be a lot different than for a studio role. You will want possibly a less critical headphone and one that produces a big sound stage. Everything will be just a little understated because it is just for pleasure. You will still hear all the nuances and interesting musical touches but in a different way.
Perhaps the low and high frequencies will be pulled back a bit, so there is a nice balance to the sound that is rich and warm. What style of music you might listen to will also play its part. We are not sure that Beyerdynamic’s headphones will perform so well with very bass-heavy genres.
Classical music and Jazz, though, will come alive with all the musical expression and subtlety rising to the surface. You will hear things you may never have heard before. Rock and Pop will suit as well where the emphasis on the performance of the mids will shine through. There are a lot of very good choices in the headphones we have looked at. Some of which have been considered industry standards for many years.
The Studio
This is where it gets a little tricky. Where in the studio? That is the first question. In some studios, there are two very different types of headphone design which are used for different things. Closed-back headphones are often used for recording tracks, and open back are used for mixing. Different principles behind the designs. There are, of course, semi-open designs that try to satisfy both requirements.
If you are a pro, then you will likely have both types. One set for the recording of tracks and one for the mixing. Most of us mere mortals won’t go that far and choose one design. That might probably be the Open back design. You can get away with recording using open back, even though it might not be the best option.
But for mixing, you definitely need the right ambiance and sound, that would have to be open-backed. That is a decision that will be different for everyone as they set their own priorities.
The Budget
This is where you might need to sit down and take a breath. They can get a bit expensive. Beyer does not make cheap versions of anything. They make some lower costs than their top of the range product range. The quality will still be there, but you just set yourself a budget. A reasonable one.
The fact that you’re looking at all means you are serious about the upgrade. But you just go into it knowing what you can spend and what you can’t. There are some seriously good headphones, but they come at a price. To get some quality, you haven’t got to sell your house, in our reviews, we found some Beyer products that were a great value.
Take your time and get what’s the best Beyer for you.
Other options
If you’re not sure that you want a pair of Beyerdynamics, it’s well worth checking out our in-depth reviews of the best Sennheiser Headphones, the best Studio Headphones for Home Recording, the best Headphones for Guitar Amp, the best Headphones for Electronic Drums, and the best DJ Headphones currently available.
So, What Are The Best Beyerdynamic Headphones?
When you are confronted with so much quality, it is very hard to make that decision. It must be made, though, as we said, in the context of what you will be using them for.
We will use ours in the studio, and so that will determine the features we require. Even so, there are still several options. After much thought, we have decided that for our purpose, we wanted the best Beyerdynamic headphones for studio work. We have therefore chosen the…
Clinically efficient and great sounding, they are just outstanding.
Our choice for the Best Beyerdynamic Headphones.