High-end semi-open headphones with true sound definition and phenomenal bass response
Reproduces immersive three-dimensional acoustics with 5 Hz to 35 kHz frequency response
Combines best of open and closed technologies to reproduce complete sound spectrum
Single-sided cable, replaceable soft ear pads, and padded headband for comfort
1/8-Inch gold-plated stereo mini jack and 1/4-inch adapter
Product Review
Product Description
Proving that not all headphones are created equal, the award-winning Beyerdynamic DT 880 high-end headphones combine the strengths of both open and closed technologies to reproduce the complete sound spectrum in stunning detail. The high frequencies sound crystal clear without ever coming across as unpleasant, the balanced mids sound analytical and strong, and the bass is voluminous without being too obtrusive. In total, the phones produce a rich frequency response of 5 Hz to 35 kHz, making everything from classical music to hip-hop to big-budget movie soundtracks sound rich and immersive. The DT 880 headphones are also extremely comfortable during extended listening sessions, with a single-sided cable, replaceable soft ear pads, and a padded headband. And as an aesthetic bonus, the phones offer classic grilles made of high-grade steel. Other features include a semi-open back design, an innovative bass-reflex system, a gold-plated 1/8-inch mini stereo jack plug, a 1/4-inch adapter, and a black carrying case. Made in Germany, the phones weigh 10.4 ounces and carry a two-year warranty.
I do not have much experience with comparing of headphones, but I simply adore these. I use these beyerdynamic DT 880's mainly for listening to music (but they are also great for movies as well). I use them mainly in combination with my (humble?) NAD C-352 Stereo Integrated Amplifier for listening to CD's and DVD's. I have not yet tried them in combination with a headphone amplifier plugged into a mobile player or computer, but directly connected to the NAD C-352 they sound just wonderful, certainly the best I have personally heard so far - but I do have a limited budget ;-).
These DT 880's from beyerdynamic are actually only my second pair of high-end (?) headphones I have ever owned. Actually, my preferred way of listening to music is via headphones. I live on my own, I do have a pair of wonderful speakers (the exquisite, clean and clear-sounding Monitor Audio Silver RS6 - in a sense they sound quite like the headphones under review here), but one does have to take the...Read more
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These sound wonderful, especially when driven by a quality headphone amp. Top to bottom, lows, mids and highs, these headphones reproduce all types of music faithfully. The presenation and soundstage are a bit forward of what Sennheiser offers, but not so pronounced as to conflict with more sweeping classical pieces. Even on high-engergy rock music, they shine.
The comfort is top-notch, though if you haven't worn full-size over-the-ear (circumaural) headphones, anything in this class will require an adjustment. The round earpads do allow a variety of positions, whereas other 'phones with oval pads may form to your head slightly better, they do not allow variation in position.
The Sennheiser HD650 may edge out this headphone in ultimate performance, but not by a wide margin. The price and comfort are big advantages of this headphone, so many people may make this their overall top choice.
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Although I prefer the AKG K701 for most of my listening, this competing entry from Beyer is so close that it's almost a coin toss. (One recent comparison in a headphone artcle came up with a dead heat.)
This is surprising, considering that the DT880 is one of the most reasonably priced of the major mid-priced headphones. The bass is full but nicely textured - not a touch of bass bloat to be found here. The highs are detaied and never seemed sharp to me, and the overall sound offers a huge soundstage. Instead of the music being on top of your, these Beyers lend a perceived distance of a few feet; ths makes classical music sound doubly elegant, and surprisingly makes rock music grandiose in an appealing kind of way.
These headphones don't require a headphone amp, but certainly profit from one. The 30 ohm version makes for more volume, though the 250 ohm version is standard, and best for most daily listening.