Beyerdynamic DT 1770 vs T5 3rd Generation Review

Audio engineers, musicians and audiophiles alike are certainly familiar with the Beyerdynamic brand. The DT 1770 and T5 are both high performance closed-back headphones with different applications in mind. The DT 1770 is traditionally designed for professional reference use, while the T5 is geared more towards audiophiles. However, both headphones are a highly enjoyable listen. Separated by a significant price difference, how much better does the T5 perform than the DT 1770? And what are their different characteristics in terms of sound signature?

In the Box

Design

Both headphones sport Tesla dynamic drivers. And although these two models appear to have a similar build, The DT 1770 has a steel headband, while the yokes on the T5 are made from aluminum. As such, the DT 1770 feels heavier than the T5, though the clamping force is about the same. The cable setup is also differenct; the DT 1770 has one cable input on the left ear cup, while the T5 has a split cable with connections on both cups. The DT 1770 also comes with two standard studio style cables, giving you the option between a spiraled design and a longer straight cable. The T5 boasts a “ultra-high-purity OCC7N copper” cable, covered in fabric. It is shorter than the straight cable on the DT 1770, making it naturally more appropriate for casual listening.

The main difference to note in these headphones is the impedance. While the Beyerdynamic T5 is more efficient, at 32 ohms, the DT 1770 is at 250 ohms, requiring quite a bit more driving power.

Sounds Impressions

Soundstage

Although the imaging on both, the DT 1770 and T5 are highly accurate, the space on the T5 feels a little grander, especially in terms of width. At times, the T5 also displays a little more height. At the same time, because of the precise instrument placement on both models, they felt equally immersive and colorful.

Low-End

The difference in bass presence between the two headphones is virtually indistinguishable. That being said, I used leather ear pads on the DT 1770 in this review. And with the velour earpads, the DT 1770 is more tempered in the low frequencies (which is why I actually prefer the leather). Both, the DT 1770 and T5 are also equal performers with respect to transparency in this range. However, the T5 conveys more richness in color, revealing a meatier sound in the low-end. And for many, this difference may make the T5 a more satiating listening experience.

Mids

The relatively even balance in this range is practically the same on both headphones. However, again, the DT 1770 presents a thinner sound than the more fleshed out T5. Some may prefer the leaner precision of the DT 1770 when it comes to acoustic guitars, for example, because its character adds to the sense of separation. But for those who prefer a slightly lusher profile, the T5 would be the better option. There is also little difference in the level of detail in this range, though at times, the T5 reveals more texture in strings and vocals.

Highs

The other main difference between the DT 1770 and T5 lies in this range. The highs feel more extended on the DT 1770, with percussion, for example, coming out more crisp and sparkly. On the flip side, this difference makes the T5 a slightly less fatiguing listening experience. Once again, at times I felt a little more texture on the T5 in this range, but the difference feels almost nominal, given the rather significant price difference between the two headphones.

Summary

Given the impressive soundstage, high level of detail and nicely balanced tuning on both, the DT 1770 and T5, the difference may come down to personality. If you appreciate a leaner profile with more extended highs, the more reference sounding DT 1770 would be the way to go. But if you demand the biggest soundstage, and prefer a richer, more textured sound with easier highs, then the T5 would be the more charismatic choice.

You can buy the Beyerdynamic DT 1770 at Audio 46.

You can buy the Beyerdynamic T5 3rd Generation at Audio 46.