Beyerdynamic has long been a heavyweight in the world of professional audio, and their classic DT series headphones are nothing short of legendary. With the DT Pro X series, they’ve taken a significant step forward, modernizing their iconic lineup to meet the needs of today’s creators and listeners. I’ve been spending some time with both the closed-back DT 700 Pro X and the open-back DT 900 Pro X, and here’s what I’ve found.
The Big Picture: What’s New?
The most significant change with the DT Pro X series is the introduction of Beyerdynamic’s new STELLAR.45 drivers. This new technology brings a few key benefits to the table. Most notably, the headphones now feature a lower 48-ohm impedance. This is a game-changer, as it means you can get a powerful, detailed sound from a much wider range of devices—from pro-grade audio interfaces to a simple laptop or even a smartphone—without needing a dedicated high-power amplifier.
Beyond the drivers, Beyerdynamic has focused on durability and user experience. Both models are built like tanks, a hallmark of the brand, but now feature a detachable mini-XLR cable, a huge quality-of-life improvement. The headband and earpads are also replaceable, making these a truly sustainable long-term investment.
Comfort & Build: Studio-Ready for the Long Haul
The DT Pro X headphones are designed for marathon listening sessions. The build quality is excellent, with a sturdy spring steel headband and a premium feel. The velour earpads are a definite highlight, providing a soft, breathable cushion that prevents your ears from getting sweaty. The clamping force is firm enough to keep them securely in place during a session but not so tight that it becomes uncomfortable.
Sound Quality: Precision and Clarity
Here’s where the two models diverge, offering distinct listening experiences tailored to different needs.
Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X (Open-Back)
The DT 900 Pro X is the heir to the DT 990 Pro. As an open-back headphone, its soundstage is wide and spacious, with a remarkable sense of air and separation. Instruments are precisely placed in the stereo field, making it an ideal tool for mixing, mastering, and critical listening.
- Bass: The low-end is neutral and well-defined. It’s not a bass-heavy headphone, but it has excellent sub-bass extension, allowing you to hear a track’s foundational elements with clarity and without any muddiness.
- Mids: The midrange is wonderfully balanced and articulate. Vocals and instruments are forward and detailed, allowing you to easily pick out nuances in a mix.
- Treble: This is the classic Beyerdynamic signature. The highs are bright, detailed, and analytical. While some listeners might find this “Beyerdynamic bite” a little sharp at first, it’s never harsh or piercing. It’s a double-edged sword: it reveals every detail, but it can also expose poorly recorded or mastered tracks.
Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X (Closed-Back)
The DT 700 Pro X builds on the legacy of the DT 770 Pro, offering the same level of comfort and durability but with a more modern sound profile. As a closed-back headphone, it provides good passive noise isolation, making it a great choice for recording, live monitoring, or just listening in a noisy environment.
- Sound Signature: Compared to the DT 900 Pro X, the DT 700 Pro X has a slightly warmer, more intimate sound. The bass is a little more emphasized, offering a satisfying punch without sacrificing clarity. While the soundstage is naturally less expansive than its open-back sibling, it’s still surprisingly wide for a closed-back design.
- Use Case: Its isolation makes it perfect for drummers, vocalists, or anyone who needs to block out external sound while maintaining a detailed, accurate monitoring experience.
The Verdict
The Beyerdynamic DT Pro X series is a fantastic evolution of a professional audio legend. Both the DT 700 Pro X and the DT 900 Pro X deliver on their promise of studio-grade sound with modern convenience. The lower impedance and detachable cables make them incredibly versatile for both professional and casual use.
If you’re an audio professional who needs an analytical, surgically precise tool for mixing and mastering in a quiet environment, the DT 900 Pro X is an outstanding choice. Its transparent sound and expansive sound stage are second to none in its price bracket.
If you require excellent isolation for recording, monitoring, or simply listening in a less-than-ideal setting, the DT 700 Pro X is a top-tier closed-back headphone. It provides a punchy yet detailed sound that won’t bleed into your microphone.
Ultimately, you can’t go wrong with either model. They are both excellent headphones that honor the Beyerdynamic legacy while bringing it confidently into the future. Both Available for immediate delivery at KShs. 50,000 Each .