Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO vs Audio-Technica M50X Review

Today, I’m going to compare two of the best-selling headphones of all time in the under $200 price range. Both of these headphones are supposed to be ideal for studio use. In theory, this should mean that they’re both well balanced and detailed. But for those who just want a fun listening experience, which one sounds better? Let’s find out in this Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO vs Audio-Technica M50X Review.

IN the BOX 

FIT and DESIGN 

The Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO has larger and rounder earcups than the M50X. However, the fit on the DT 770 is also quite a bit tighter. As a result, the sound isolation is better on the DT 770. Wearing the DT 770, I enjoyed feeling the extra space around my ears. But the looser, softer fit on the M50X made the listening experience more comfortable. Both headphones feel light and are about the same weight. The M50X has a detachable cable, while the DT 770 does not. Detachable is good because it’s easily replaceable. The M50X swivels flat, while the DT 770 has no folding option at all. As far as aesthetic design goes, you’ve got to choose between the cool vintage look of the DT 770 and the sleek minimalism of the M50X.

SOUND

The DT 770 PRO is defined by it’s perfect balance and detail, while the M50X is characterized by its thumping bass and punchy higher frequencies.

Lows

The lows on the DT 770 PRO are nowhere near as pronounced as those on the M50X. Indeed, the M50X has a much deeper and more emphasized bass. That being said, the bass on the DT 770 is extremely clear and somewhat dry, while the bass on the M50X resonates a little in comparison. With both headphones, the separation between the lows and the rest of the mix are great. But certainly, for pop, hip-hop and EDM, the M50X is the more preferable headphone.

Mids

The mids on the DT 770 are not only perfectly balanced, but they actually exist. The M50X, in comparison, has very scooped out mids, and the high mids are slightly emphasized. As a result, the M50X produces some harshness. The mids on the DT 770 are extremely detailed, separated and full. This is not the case on the M50X. Therefore, in terms of rock and pop-rock, the DT 770 is a much better choice.

Highs

I preferred the highs on the DT 770 as well. They’re a little smoother and more detailed. Listening to Miles Davis, I found the trumpet to be a bit too piercing on the M50X. And playing Whitney Houston, the breathiness and vibrato was more audible on the DT 770. If you listen to a lot of classical and jazz, the DT 770 is the more ideal choice.

Soundstage

The soundstage on the DT 770 and the M50X are similar in width and depth. Both have a great soundstage for the price. But if I had to choose which one felt more spacious, it would be the DT 770.

SUMMARY 

The DT 770 PRO and the M50X have pretty different profiles. The DT 770 is the better all-rounder. It works for all genres and has superior balance and detail. For this reason, it is also the better studio headphone. However, if you tend to mostly listen to pop, hip-hop and EDM, you’ll prefer the punchy, bassy sound of the M50X.

You can find these headphones for the best price at:

Audio 46: Beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO (32 Ohms) Over-Ear Headphones

Audio 46: Audio-Technica M50X Over-Ear Headphones

Amazon: beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO 32 Ohm Studio Headphone
Amazon: Audio-Technica ATH-M50x Professional Studio Monitor Headphones, Black

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SPECIFICATIONS – Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO vs Audio-Technica M50X Review

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