Walk into almost any recording studio, radio station or home music setup and there is a good chance you will spot a pair of grey Beyerdynamic headphones. The German company’s DT series has been a studio staple for decades, and the models are still made in Germany, according to Beyerdynamic.
The catch is that the range looks confusing from the outside. The DT 770 PRO, DT 880 PRO and DT 990 PRO look almost identical, and the newer DT 700 PRO X and DT 900 PRO X add another choice. This guide explains the real difference, which comes down mostly to how open the ear cups are and what impedance you need. Prices are from Beyerdynamic’s German online store as shown on 4 November 2026.
See Beyerdynamic Studio Headphones
Contents
Five Models at a Glance
| Model | Design | Impedance | Weight (no cable) | Price (4 Nov 2026) | Was |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| DT 770 PRO | Closed | 32, 80 or 250 ohm versions | 270 g | €149 | €159 |
| DT 880 PRO | Semi-open | Several versions | 295 g | €186 | €199 |
| DT 990 PRO | Open | Several versions | 250 g | €148 | €169 |
| DT 700 PRO X | Closed | 48 ohm | 350 g | €235 | €249 |
| DT 900 PRO X | Open | 48 ohm | 345 g | €228 | €249 |
Prices are in euros on the German store and may vary by version and colour. Specifications are taken from the product pages. Beyerdynamic lists a frequency range of 5 to 35,000 Hz for the classic models and 5 to 40,000 Hz for the PRO X pair.
Closed, Semi-Open or Open: The Key Choice
Closed-back headphones seal the back of each ear cup. They keep sound in and outside noise out, which makes them the right choice for recording vocals or instruments near a microphone, for podcasting and for use in noisy rooms. Beyerdynamic itself recommends closed headphones when you are using a microphone, as less sound leaks into the recording.
Open-back headphones let air and sound pass through the grille. They usually sound more spacious and natural, and many people find them more comfortable over long sessions, but they leak sound both ways. They suit mixing, critical listening and gaming at home, but not recording or a shared office. Semi-open designs sit between the two.
DT 770 PRO: The Closed All-Rounder
The DT 770 PRO is the closed model of the classic trio and the most versatile pick for home studios. It isolates well enough for tracking vocals and is a common choice for DJs, podcasters and anyone who works in a room with other people. The 32 ohm version is the easiest to drive from a phone, laptop or games controller, while the 80 and 250 ohm versions are aimed at studio interfaces and headphone amplifiers. At €149 on 4 November 2026 it was one of the most affordable models in the range.
DT 880 PRO: The Semi-Open Middle Ground
The DT 880 PRO uses a semi-open design. Beyerdynamic describes it as made for neutral monitoring when mixing and mastering, with a transparent and natural sound. It leaks less than a fully open model but still offers some of the spaciousness. At €186 it is the most expensive of the three classic models.
DT 990 PRO: Open and Spacious
The DT 990 PRO is the fully open member of the family and the lightest here at 250 g, according to Beyerdynamic. The company positions it for mastering and analytical listening, and notes that open headphones also work well for gaming and streaming. Its sound is often described as lively, with emphasised treble and bass, which some listeners love and others find bright, so try a pair first if you can.
DT 700 PRO X and DT 900 PRO X: The Modern Pair
The PRO X models are Beyerdynamic’s newer studio headphones. Both use 48 ohm drivers, which Beyerdynamic says makes them easy to drive from mobile devices as well as studio gear, and both have velour ear pads and detachable cables. The DT 700 PRO X is closed for recording and monitoring, while the DT 900 PRO X is open for mixing and editing.
They cost more than the classic models, at €235 and €228 respectively on 4 November 2026, and they are also heavier at around 350 g. In return you get a more modern design with replaceable parts, which can make them a better long-term investment.
Which One Should You Buy?
- Recording vocals, podcasting or working in a shared room: DT 770 PRO or DT 700 PRO X.
- Mixing and long listening sessions in a quiet room: DT 990 PRO or DT 900 PRO X.
- A balance between the two: DT 880 PRO.
- Using a phone, laptop or console without an amplifier: DT 770 PRO 32 ohm or either PRO X model.
- Using a dedicated audio interface or headphone amp: any version, including the 250 ohm models.
Buying Tips
Check the impedance before you add a pair to your basket, as several models come in more than one version. Beyerdynamic’s store also has outlet and B-stock listings, sometimes called B-Ware, which can be cheaper if you are happy with open-box items. If you are buying from the UK, check delivery and any import charges at checkout, as the German store prices are shown in euros.
Spare ear pads and cables are sold separately for many models. That is worth knowing, as replaceable parts help a pair of studio headphones last for many years.
Final Thoughts
There is no single best Beyerdynamic headphone: the right choice depends on whether you record, mix or simply listen. Pick closed for isolation, open for space and comfort, and choose the impedance to match your equipment. Compare the full range and current offers at Beyerdynamic.
Disclaimer: This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through them we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Prices and specifications were checked on 4 November 2026 and may change.