Beyerdynamic upgrades DT 1770 Pro and DT 1990 Pro studio headphones with new drivers and improved comfort
Beyerdynamic has just updated two of its popular studio monitoring headphones, the DT 1770 Pro and the DT 1990 Pro. Both models were first introduced in 2016 as premium versions of the popular DT 770 and DT 990 Pro, offering a step-up in terms of build quality, comfort, and conveniently detachable cables. Further, both models (particularly the open-back DT 1990 Pro) are perfectly suited for and popular among audiophiles, or simply for casual listening in a non-professional setting. The MKII versions offer those same upgrades as well as some new refinements.
First off, the new 45 mm TESLA.45 driver is claimed to improve resolution while lowering distortion, thanks to a weight-optimised coil and the diaphragm made of high-performance PEEK polymer. With an input impedance of 30 ohms, both headphones are easily driven by mobile devices too, and not just studio gear.
The DT 1990 Pro MKII is an open-back model, with a “natural spatial sound quality” that’s more suited for mixing and mastering, whereas the DT 1770 Pro’s closed-back design lends itself more to recording and monitoring, where sound leakage and external noise needs to be minimised.
With the DT 1990 Pro MKII, the company has reduced the treble response at 8 kHz while retaining it at 10 kHz, and it’s claimed that “the selected sound signature prevents ear fatigue during long studio sessions”. For the DT 1770 Pro MKII, Beyerdynamic mentions that “the bass is more prominent” and “the high-frequency range has been fine-tuned for a more balanced sound across the entire spectrum”.
On a more concrete note, the new headband features memory foam and a ‘fontanelle recess’, which prevents unnecessary pressure on the sensitive top portion of the skull. This is the spot that typically first gets uncomfortable, even painful, specially with heavier or not very well padded headphones during longer sessions.
As before, both models also come with detachable cables with mini-XLR connectors, so not only can you swap it with a longer cable if desired, or one with a mic and USB-C connector for mobile use, but it also means that a faulty cable will not render the entire headphone useless.
Each one comes with two types of ear pads, the DT 1770 Pro with a velour and a leatherette one, and the DT 1990 Pro with two kinds of velour offering different sound signatures. A hard carrying case is also included, as are two cables, a 3 m straight one and a 5 m coiled one.
The DT 1990 Pro MKII and DT 1770 Pro MKII can be ordered on the Beyerdynamic website for $599. On Amazon, as of now only the DT 1990 Pro MKII is available to pre-order, with shipping starting mid November. However, we also highly recommend the recently launched DT 770 Pro X Limited Edition, which is not only much cheaper at $200, but also offers most of the same features like the TESLA.45 drivers, detachable cable and comfortable headband with recess.
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