beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro Headphones

The Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro is a semi-open studio headphone renowned for its analytical sound and comfortable design. Favored by professionals and audiophiles alike, it delivers a balanced and transparent soundstage, making it ideal for studio monitoring, mixing, and mastering.

Design and Comfort

The DT 880 Pro feature a durable plastic and metal construction. The earpads and headband padding are made of soft velour, providing good comfort for long mixing sessions. The headband is adjustable but clamping force may be tighter than some headphones for a secure fit during monitoring. The earcups are circumaural in size and should fit most ears well. The coiled cable is permanently attached and single-sided to allow for easy rotation of the earcups. Overall, the build quality feels solid and the replaceable earpads/headband make servicing convenient.

Semi-Open Design

The semi-open design of the DT 880 Pro strikes a balance between the spaciousness of open-back headphones and the isolation of closed-back models. This design allows some sound to leak in and out, creating a wider soundstage than closed-back headphones while still providing some degree of noise isolation. This makes them suitable for use in environments where complete isolation is not necessary, but a natural and open sound is desired.

User Feedback: Some users have noted that the sound leakage can be noticeable in quiet environments, so they may not be the best choice for use in libraries or shared workspaces.

Analytical Sound

The DT 880 Pro is known for its analytical sound signature, which is characterized by a flat frequency response and a balanced presentation. This makes them ideal for critical listening applications such as studio monitoring and mixing, where accuracy and detail are paramount. The headphones don’t artificially boost any particular frequency range, resulting in a neutral sound that allows you to hear the audio as it was intended.

User Feedback: Some users have described the sound as “clinical” or “lacking in warmth,” which can be a matter of preference. Others appreciate the accuracy and detail that the analytical sound provides.

Comfortable Fit

Comfort is a key consideration for headphones that are intended for long periods of use, and the DT 880 Pro excels in this area. The soft velour earpads provide a comfortable seal around the ears, while the adjustable headband ensures a secure and personalized fit. The single-sided cable further enhances comfort by reducing tangles and allowing for greater freedom of movement.

User Feedback: Users consistently praise the comfort of the DT 880 Pro, with many stating that they can wear them for hours without discomfort.

Durable Construction

The DT 880 Pro is built to withstand the rigors of professional use. It features a sturdy steel headband and high-quality plastic construction, ensuring that it can handle everyday wear and tear. The replaceable parts are a significant advantage, as they allow you to extend the lifespan of the headphones by replacing individual components as needed.

User Feedback: The DT 880 Pro has a reputation for durability, with many users reporting that their headphones have lasted for years without issue.

High Impedance

The 250 ohm impedance of the DT 880 Pro makes it well-suited for use with professional audio equipment such as headphone amplifiers and audio interfaces. Higher impedance headphones generally require more power to drive but can offer better sound quality and a wider dynamic range.

User Feedback: Some users have found that the DT 880 Pro benefits from a dedicated headphone amplifier, which can improve the volume and overall sound quality.

Wide Frequency Response

With a frequency response of 5 - 35,000 Hz, the DT 880 Pro covers the full range of human hearing, capturing the subtle nuances and details in your audio. This wide frequency response contributes to the accurate and detailed sound that the headphones are known for.

User Feedback: Users appreciate the ability of the DT 880 Pro to reproduce a wide range of frequencies, from the deepest bass to the highest treble.

Value

Providing reference-grade studio sound for around $200, the DT 880 Pro offer outstanding value for money based on customer feedback and professional reviews. Their open, natural sound rivals audiophile headphones costing over $400. When combined with replaceable parts and a proven comfortable design, the DT 880 Pro are considered an excellent studio investment at this price point.

For context, comparable open-back studio headphones from competitors cost significantly more - Sennheiser HD 600 around $300, AKG K712 Pro $350, HiFiMan Sundara $350. The beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro punch well above their price bracket in terms of detailed, spacious sound that satisfies discerning audio engineers. While the permanent cable may be less convenient, reviewers agree this is a worthwhile tradeoff for the sound quality achieved.

Considering both amateur and professional reviews, the beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro provide exceptional studio quality and long-term value at a mid-range price point. Their natural, open sound makes them a customer favorite in the sub-$300 bracket.

Conclusion

The Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro is a versatile and high-quality headphone that excels in studio environments and critical listening applications. Its combination of analytical sound, comfortable fit, and durable construction makes it a popular choice for professionals and audiophiles. While the semi-open design and high impedance may require some consideration depending on your use case, the overall performance and value of the DT 880 Pro are undeniable.