The Beyerdynamic We Love: DT770 Anniversary Edition

This is a double author review. Normal text is Lieven, italics are Mike. Disclaimer: Mike’s DT770 Anniversary Edition was a loaner sample from Jaben Indonesia. Lieven got his free sample from Beyerdynamic directly.

 

What is Beyerdynamic up to lately? Not only have they delivered the great T70 and Custom One Pro lately, just to name a few, but they’re back already with an all-black Limited Edition 32Ohm DT770 PRO 88 to celebrate Beyerdynamic’s 88 birthday!  I received a free sample of the L.E. DT770 88 from the Heilbronn based company directly. /Lieven

I envy Lieven for getting to keep the Beyerdynamic DT770 AE sample. I only got to spend roughly a period of one week or so as I borrowed the LE from the local Jaben. I was so impressed with the LE when I auditioned it on the store and so I asked them if I can borrow the demo unit for a review. Over the period of that one week, I grew to love the DT770 LE very much. 

Beyerdynamics, you all know I’m not a big fan.. but the Limited Edition DT770 and the COP are two recent releases from Beyerdynamic that I think is quite different from the rest of the family. First one is the Beyer Custom One Pro. The bass a little boomy, but I think Beyer has finally succeeded in creating a fun sounding headphone with the COP. I won’t say that the COP was influenced by the HD650, but it definitely has a darker, fuller low sound than the usual Beyer family is known for. Unlike the COP, the DT770 Limited Edition is not a totally new product, instead it’s a spin off of the popular DT770 line up. The Limited Edition DT770 is still based on a standard non-tesla Beyerdynamic driver. But they’ve executed it so well, I’d take this headphone anyday over the T70 or T70p. It doesn’t have the technicalities of the T1 or T5p (and I don’t expect it would), but outside from the two flagships, this model is, in my opinion, the third best Beyerdynamic model on their entire line up right now (I’ve yet to listen to the T90, but the T70 was — I’d rather be polite). /Mike

 

 

The Limited Edition Model

The DT770 LE will only be produced in 2012 in Germany and only 4000 units will be made in total, making it Limited but nut THAT limited you will hardly ever see one. Mike was talking about how basic the box and accessories are for a Limited Edition but there actually is a reason behind this, and I quote Beyerdynamic:

The box is based on the 1960’s Beyerdynamic boxes. They were just like this one, we never had a wooden box, therefore we didn’t make one for this limited edition either. The idea was to make this limited edition headphone and present it in a historic looking box. Even the graphic design was based on the 1960’s graphic design.

So there you have it. It’s more of a trip down memory lane for Beyerdynamic and that’s the reason you’re not getting any accessories (besides the ¼ plug) even though I’m sure a lot of people expect a bit more from a LE.  I actually like the LE plates on the ear cups, although the 88 printing could have been a bit more visible.

This version of the  DT770 (5 – 35.000 Hz) comes equipped with a softskin headband and pads, and while The DT770 in general is famous with its velour pads, Beyer chose to use these on the LE and of course it has an impact on the sound. Comfort wise this LE DT770 with its 270gr. does pretty good, it’s no Sennheiser HD700 but I would give it at least 7.5 out of 10 for comfort (where the Senn is 10). Enough about the looks already, let’s move on! /Lieven

Usually you expect extras for a Limited Edition headphone, something fancier and extra accessories. Nothing like that with the DT770 LE. Instead, as Lieven already mentioned, it’s a real trip down memory lane. Not a big deal, especially after hearing Beyer’s explanation for it. After all, it’s the sound we’re concerned about, not fancy boxes. /Mike

 

Sound Impressions

The special thing about the anniversary DT770 is that it’s more than a simple tweak. The pleather pads bring down the tonality to make it darker than the standard DT770. The bass is a little boomy, unfortunately, where the standard DT770 (80Ω and 250Ω) has a better control though with a much leaner body. Overlooking the boomier bass, what really gets me hooked is the zero-grain sound and the much improved soundstage depth. The DT770 and DT880 have always been relatively grainy, and it’s not until the Tesla T1 where I start to hear a grain-free Beyer. The DT770-anniversary has a zero-grain sound that reminds me of the big brother the T5p and this improvement by itself is worth having the special Limited Edition tag.

The soundstage depth improvement makes the Limited Edition a much more three dimensional headphone than the standard DT770, or even the DT880 and DT990. Though you get a more airy sound with the standard DT770 or DT880, mainly due to the use of velour pads, but they simply sound flat once you hear the anniversary DT770. The standard DT770 is one of the headphones with serious detail levels, so I really didn’t expect an improvement on this area. How surprising, the AE managed to pass the detail level significantly and it’s so much more effortless in producing those details (with less treble quantity too). This may not be very evident on the average pop-rock recording, but play a well recorded Jazz or Classical piece and you don’t really have to listen hard to spot the difference. Yet most of all, what strikes me as extremely awesome is how the anniversary does all these details while being smooth and effortless.

Lastly there is no more dry sounding, harsh treble of the standard DT770/DT880s. The anniversary DT770 is very smooth on the treble with excellent extension. The midrange is fuller, though on some recordings the more forward upper mids does get more aggressive than on the standard edition. On the average recordings however I think the LE is more pleasing due to the better vocal presence. Again, overlooking the slightly boomy bass of the Limited Edition, this has got to be one of the best Beyerdynamic headphones around. While models like the T1 and the T5p are technically superior, for some reason I am hooked more to the sound of the anniversary DT770 than the two flagship teslas. Compared to the T70, I don’t think there is a comparison. The T70 is a more precise headphone, but it sounds so metallic and clinical, I really wouldn’t use it for music listening.

What I find puzzling is that Beyerdynamic doesn’t say anything about the sound quality improvements compared to the standard version. Did all those sound improvements happen by accident? Probably not, but usually sound quality improvements would be the first thing a manufacturer boast about. /Mike

 

Continue to the next page…

4.7/5 - (96 votes)
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Lieven is living in Europe and he's the leader of the gang. He's running Headfonia as a side project next to his full time day job in Digital Marketing & Consultancy. He's a big fan of tube amps and custom inear monitors and has published hundreds of product reviews over the years.

680 Comments

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    Andre

    Excellent review guys! I love the 770/80’s but it sounds like they finally made the necessary changes to the LE so great, time to start looking for the 32’s 🙂 I was hoping for a more portable pair and I wasn’t a fan of the COP’s so this is exactly what I was hoping for. Doesn’t look like they are available here in the states yet but please believe I will have my eye on them the second they are.

    • Reply November 8, 2012

      L.

      It really is excellent. They aren’t available yet in the States as far as I know, even here in Europe they’re still very new.

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    Dennis

    I was considering the k550, but this sounds like a serious contender! I get the impression that i shouldn’t use it with my e10 (on low gain) though?

    • Reply November 8, 2012

      L.

      It’s more musical as the K550. And no, I wouldn’t recommend the E10 for this headphone, it doesn’t do it any good.

    • Reply November 8, 2012

      Mike

      Yes more musical than the K550.

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    L.

    Like Mike, I haven’t used the HD650 since I got these headphones. I do feel guilty 🙂

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    Zohar Lee

    any idea how these pair with an RSA P-51?

    • Reply November 8, 2012

      Mike

      Sorry I didn’t have the P-51 to try it with. Power wise the P-51 should suffice though.

      • Reply November 8, 2012

        Zohar Lee

        Thank Mike that’s great to hear

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    Julius

    Color me interested. What a great review! I only recently sold off my Luke Skybeyer DT-770 32 ohm Mod ( A DT-770 with wood cups ). Naturally, I am drooling over this new model now.

    • Reply November 8, 2012

      L.

      I’m sure it’ll be available in the US soon

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    Mike

    Thanks, donunus!

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    L.

    Thanks man!

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    L.

    Thanks H Man!

    I still have the COP and the treble and mids do are better. the ids are more forward and the treble is spicier. It’s not hot. Overall as said, there is way more detail and clarity, more an audiophile sound but still warm and bassy. excellent combo!

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    grizley

    Thanks for this nice review. They’re definitely on my wish-list. I guess not for too long;)

    Just quickly coming back to the comparison with AKG K550, which I own and am/was very happy with. Would you consider DT770 LE in a way “simply better” than K550 or rather “complementary”? I got K550 and was extremely happy with the clarity and soundstage that they offer but only until recently when I became a happy owner of “dark” HD650 which just sounds so much more natural and pleasant to me, especially with vocal or guitar… I still like K550 a lot, but with time I find more and more difficult to motivate myself to listen to them, as HD650 sounds so good with (bit surprisingly) almost any genre of music… But at the same time HD650 tends to be bit “slow” and merciless with some of the lower-quality recordings. Do I get it right, that DT770 LE would be something in between, i.e. dealing better with lower quality recordings, with better PRaT than HD650, but at the same time not so “sterile” as K550 sounds to me? All the headphones driven from Beresford’s Caiman DAC/HeadAmp.

    • Reply November 10, 2012

      L.

      You said it right, it’s in between both! It’s a faster HD650 etc. More musical as K550, etc. I think it’s the perfect headphone if you like a bit of both.

      • Reply November 11, 2012

        grizley

        Thanks L. for the recommendation. I think it will definitely end up in my small collection 🙂

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    breizh

    Hi Lieven/Mike,

    could you tell us about sound leaking, in comparison with the AKG K550 especially ?

    thanks a lot

    • Reply November 10, 2012

      L.

      There’s no sound leaking out that’s for sure. There do is some sound leaking in, you’re not 100% closed of from the outside world but on several occasion people do were standing behind me in my office without having noticed they knocked and came in. I can’t relate to the 550, Mike will reply in a few days when he’s back online

      • Reply November 10, 2012

        breizh

        ok, thanks a lot Lieven !

    • Reply November 14, 2012

      Mike

      I didn’t really do a sound leak-in comparison with the K550 but I would guess roughly similar depending on the fit on your head too, I guess.

      • Reply November 15, 2012

        breizh

        ok Mike,

        Actually i finally received my K550 this afternoon !
        i can’t wait to try it with my asgard + hrt II+ combo, which is a wonderful combination for my DT880

        In fact, in the last 2 years i bought the yulong U100, then the asgard + hrt, following your reviews ! and i enjoy it very much every day !

        thanks again
        richard

        • Reply November 16, 2012

          Mike

          Good to hear that, Richard!

          I’m excited when people enjoy their music!

  • Reply November 8, 2012

    L.

    Yes, they are better in this LE DT770PRO 88 as in the COP

    • Reply November 8, 2012

      H Man

      Thanks Lieven. I really enjoyed this 2 way review with yourself and Mike. Would like to see more in the future like this. Thanks! 🙂

      • Reply November 8, 2012

        L.

        We like it too but it’s not very easy getting double review samples. 🙂

  • Reply November 9, 2012

    SouthSound

    Mike/Lieven, can you guys comment a little more on how the midrange is positioned? I’ve never heard a Beyer before, but I’ve read enough reviews to gather the original 770 has a u-/v-shaped response. Is the 770 AE’s midrange more in line with the treble and bass? Is this still a bass canon or something more balanced that can shine with vocals and other music that requires accurate midrange presence? Also, have you guys swapped pads & heard the AE with the velour, thoughts?

    Thanks for your time..

    • Reply November 10, 2012

      L.

      There’s no real V shape in this Beyer, that’s one thing it makes it special. the mids are full and upfront in perfect harmony with the lows and highs. It still is pretty “bassy” but that’s in the DT770s nature, in Mike’s part of the review he does talk about the bass in detail. We didn’t swap pads as this is specially chosen for the AE, it’s part of the sound change

      • Reply November 13, 2012

        SouthSound

        Thanks, Lieven.. I went ahead and pre-ordered from B&H. Looking forward to hearing my first Beyers when these arrive. A sales rep from another online store said these should hit US shores in late November/early December.

        • Reply November 13, 2012

          L.

          The wait must kill you 😉 Let us know what you think when you get them!

          • Reply November 14, 2012

            SouthSound

            Indeed.. your glowing review doesn’t help ease my impatience, either. 🙂

            As another poster requested above, if you could provide some brief comparisons to the HD600, it would be much appreciated.

  • Reply November 9, 2012

    David

    Hi Mike, you’ve mentioned the online price is between $200~250. May I know which online store are you referring to? I’m really interested in buying one.
    Thank you.

    • Reply November 10, 2012

      L.

      I think I wrote that. It depends on the continent you are in. Just google for it and you get lots of Us and UK shops. They’re not even out in the US yet btw. Cheapest I found them for was 143€ in Holland

      • Reply November 29, 2012

        John Clare

        Any ideas when these will show up in the US? 2012 is almost over…

        • Reply November 29, 2012

          L.

          I figured they were available already

          • Reply November 29, 2012

            John Clare

            Still backordered on B&H (they are listed as a pre-order).

            • Reply November 29, 2012

              L.

              I’m afraid we europeans will have bought them all by then 😉

              • Reply November 29, 2012

                John Clare

                It sure looks that way. Actually I’m European but moved to the US :/. Thinking of ordering them at home.

  • Reply November 10, 2012

    hiam

    Great review . Currently looking at dt 770 ,k550 and hp100. Whats your take on pairing these dt 770 Ae cans with the fiio e17? Would the results be comparable to the ones you got with the e10? or is that too quick an assumption?

    • Reply November 10, 2012

      L.

      I don’t have the E17 and Mike doesn’t have the AE anymore. But in general the amp section on the E10 is better as that of the E17 (where the dac is better accordiing to Mike) so I don’t think it will be the best combination, but that’s a big “Think”. I’d have to listen to it to make a judgement

  • Reply November 10, 2012

    Trent_D

    maybe this will end up like the special edition of the HD580, and become a new headphone once the AE is sold out.

    • Reply November 10, 2012

      L.

      If the 4000 units sell quickly, they just might. Anyway seems like lots of people are ordering the AE after having read this review, so who knows 🙂

      • Reply November 14, 2012

        Trent_D

        I can’t imagine why that would be! You would almost think that you and Mike are getting a kickback from Beyerdynamic (almost).

        • Reply November 15, 2012

          L.

          If only, we’d be rich by now 😀

  • Reply November 10, 2012

    Jose Gomez

    wouldn’t the dt880 had made more sense?

    • Reply November 10, 2012

      L.

      I don’t think so, the DT770 is one of the most popular headphones

    • Reply January 28, 2014

      L.

      As in how?

  • Reply November 11, 2012

    ryan

    hi mike….this one or senn momentum??? the local store price for dt770 ae is on the high side compare to online store….around usd400

    my hand is itching for another headphone

    • Reply November 11, 2012

      L.

      Fun on the move : momentum
      Better quality: DT770 AE

  • Reply November 12, 2012

    law

    • Reply November 12, 2012

      Mike

      $249! Thanks for sharing that link with us, law!

  • Reply November 13, 2012

    Markus

    I pulled the trigger and ordered one after reading your review, which is great by the way. For the time being the only other can I have is the Sennheiser HD 598. How would you compare the sound of the DT 770 LE to the HD 598?
    Last but not least I wanted to ask if the Topping D1 Mark2 is a good amp to pair with the DT 770 LE?

    • Reply November 14, 2012

      Mike

      Markus, the sound is quite different. The HD598 more forward, more mid-oriented, more grainy in sound. DT770LE more bass, more laid back.
      Amp the D1 is good but I enjoy something darker like the Matrix Mini Portable (review here)

      • Reply November 15, 2012

        Markus

        Thanks for the answer Mike,
        My intention was to find a musical can which complements my HD598 and plays most of the genres well. I am quite confident that the DT 770 LE will meet my high expectations. Can’t wait to have them in my hands (on my head).

  • Reply November 13, 2012

    smithj33

    Hey Mike, I know you said you haven’t been using your 650, but how does the 770 LE stack up to the HD600? Obviously more bass, but any any other thoughts? Thanks

    • Reply November 14, 2012

      Mike

      Some of the things I can think of is, cleaner sound better clarity better soundstage three dimensionality compared to the HD600.

  • Reply November 13, 2012

    TokenGesture

    Been looking for a closed can for a while for when I can’t use the leaky old T1. Pulled the trigger on this on the back of your review! Can’t wait to hear them.

    • Reply November 13, 2012

      L.

      Let us now how you like them!

      • Reply November 14, 2012

        TokenGesture

        Very much! I think you guys nailed it in the review – they have the PRaT that I missed from the HD 650 and some sparkle without any fatiguing hot treble. Plenty of detail amidst the warmth. Great cans! Thanks guys

        • Reply November 14, 2012

          L.

          Our pleasure. enjoy the headphone! 🙂

          • Reply November 16, 2012

            TokenGesture

            Got a question for you – if I find the T1 a little harsh in the treble in comparison to this DT770 – what flagship should I have gone for? LCD2? HE500?

        • Reply November 14, 2012

          Mike

          Good to hear that!

  • Reply November 14, 2012

    grizley

    I knew they won’t last long on my wish-list… Ordered:) Got them from houseofsound.ch for a very nice price. I believe you can get them for ~200$ delivered (plus custom & tax fees depending on your country) if you happen to live in Europe or not so far from Europe… Can’t wait to check how my Squeezebox/Caiman DAC combo can drive them;)

  • Reply November 14, 2012

    ryan

    Is this really tat good? To buy or not to buy? How do you compare this with dt880? I wanted a closed phone

    • Reply November 14, 2012

      Mike

      I think it’s more musical than the DT880. Less dry, less bright more bass.

  • Reply November 14, 2012

    Zohar Lee

    So these have arrived – sounding nice already will wait to see how they bed in, however I have noticed one issue with portable use –

    There are two small air vents – one on each side and if it’s windy out it comes in through the vents and it sounds like cable noise, this can unbalance the sound a bit as there is one placed at the front of the R cup and the other is at the back of the L cup – so depending on which way the wind blows it only affects one side.

    Otherwise they are excellent – lovely sturdy build.

    • Reply November 16, 2012

      Mike

      Interesting info on the air vents, Zohar.

      Glad you’re enjoying the headphone!

      • Reply November 16, 2012

        Zohar Lee

        Hi Mike, Yeah they are fantastic – am still getting used to the differences between them and the MS-1’s(with L pads) they replaced – very different sound signature & sound stage.

        I have definitely noticed that the boomy bass you refer to is much tighter and less intrusive when pushed through the P-51, which allows a bit more room for the lower mids.

        All in all very pleased them

  • Reply November 16, 2012

    Fabio_Rocks

    Very nice review guys! I love/hate My Sennheiser hd650, I found lacks some bass compared to my beloved px100ii, but what bore me more is the laidbackness and slowness that does not work well with fast music. My question is: Should I sell the Hd650 and buy this one? Thanks!:)

    • Reply November 16, 2012

      Trent_D

      HD650… lack bass? I don’t think I have heard that one before. I actually am really liking the 650 for rock. Of course, I don’t listen to anything that fast, so the thick low end doesn’t slow me up.

      • Reply November 16, 2012

        L.

        Believe it or not Trent, there are headphones with different/better bass too 🙂

        • Reply November 16, 2012

          Trent_D

          Shirley you jest 😉

    • Reply November 16, 2012

      Mike

      Dear Fabio,
      You should ignore all the HD650 fanboys over here and buy the DT770 LE.

      • Reply November 16, 2012

        Trent_D

        The DT770 does look like a great deal, too. It has been said before, this website is poison for the wallet.

      • Reply November 17, 2012

        Ken Stuart

        Mike, this brings up the point that Senn have chosen to release the Momentum and the HD700 (on either price point side of the HD650) rather than update the HD650 to make it more competitive with phones like the DT770LE. My guess is that they know feel that the original target audience for the HD650 is the people in the HD700 price range, and that people who can’t afford the HD700 are the same ones who are going to like the Momentum instead. The 650/700/800 numbering seems to imply this as well.
        Do you agree ?

        • Reply November 17, 2012

          L.

          But the sound level of the Momentum isn’t at the level of all the before mentionned headphones

          • Reply November 17, 2012

            Ken Stuart

            That’s the point – rather than upgrade the HD650 HiFi Audiophile headphone at that US$500 price point, they chose to introduce a HiFi Audiophile headphone at a higher price point (HD700), and introduce another MidFi headphone at a lower price point US$350 in between the 598 (US$250) and the 650.
            The implication is that they feel that audiophiles can afford the HD700…

            • Reply November 17, 2012

              Trent_D

              What’s wrong with the 650 as is? The cost might be a tad high I suppose. It is nice to see such great competition in the headphone market, though.

              • Reply November 17, 2012

                Nick Tam

                Nothing wrong with it. It just isn’t exciting at times for the average listener.

                What competition? The HD650 has been unrivaled for 8 years, even now. The newer cans come and go and the Beyer crowd doesn’t compare to the Senn crowd.

    • Reply December 4, 2012

      grizley

      I guess I want to throw in my opinion… Absolutely not! Don’t get rid off HD650 to buy DT770LE. Of course it all depends on what kind of music you listen to, how annoyed you are with the slowness of HD650, what kind of sound do you prefer, but having them both I clearly find HD650 superior to DT770LE. My Beyers got already around 75h of listening time and as much as I like them, they play in lower league than Senns. Yes, they are faster than Senns and bit more musical than AKG K550. It feels like great compromise but pls keep in mind that you also do not get the enormous soundstage and detail of AKG and this fantastic, romantic, open and airy sound of HD650 that makes you shiver for instance with every pluck of Clapton’s guitar string in Layla… I could not live without my HD650. I would miss a lot bit sterile, but detailed K550. While with DT770LE, I simply like them in my small collection. Pls take into consideration that my HD650 are possibly not even driven to its full potential by my Beresford’s Caiman DAC and still I consider them to be absolutely mind-blowing and forgive their tendency to “choke” a bit with faster music…

      • Reply December 4, 2012

        L.

        but the AE is a lot easier to drive, I’ve been giving the AE a lot more head time as the HD650 lately

        • Reply December 4, 2012

          grizley

          That’s true L. DT770LE are just fine from almost any source. I somehow spent most of the time listening to my home setup which is mid-/entry- level Squeezebox Touch + Caiman DAC/HeadAmp combo and here HD650 is my clear favourite, though I assume not yet driven optimally. I switch to DT770LE for some faster or generally poorer quality recordings and then it can be more enjoyable than HD650. But having both, I can not imagine trading my HD650 for DT770LE, while the opposite I would consider a clear upgrade… Depends a bit on what is your favourite music genre of course.

          • Reply December 4, 2012

            L.

            I have to say I’m not a fan of the AE when using the CLAS as dac.

            • Reply December 4, 2012

              John Clare

              Don’t leave us hanging L. Why don’t you like the CLAS+AE combo?

              • Reply December 4, 2012

                L.

                ipod + CLAS + C421 is a great combo, but somehow it doesn’t work for me with the AE. It’s not engaging, only on Hi Gain you get the sound you normally get from the AE, and I don’t like that. Laptop + E10 + C421 + AE on the other hand is awesome. AE + any other desktop amp/dac is also awesome. So it must be the CLAS causing this. maybe it’s a bit too analytical/thin(??) for this combo, I’m not sure and I can’t seem to explain it very well :).

                • Reply December 4, 2012

                  John Clare

                  I see the c421 is in every combo you mentioned just now. I wonder if CLAS + National would give a more favourable result?

                  • Reply December 4, 2012

                    L.

                    C421 is my on the go amp 😉 Maybe it would, I’ll try the clas and some other amps

                  • Reply December 4, 2012

                    Trent_D

                    I remember Mike saying in a facebook post that he took the National and CLAS to a local meet, and that they were joking that those two together could make good music out of any headphones.

                    • December 4, 2012

                      Mike

                      Yea that was not a joke though. Of course not like literally all the headphones out there, but we tried it with several difficult headphones and they sound good out of the pairing.

  • Reply November 17, 2012

    Floyd Style

    Hi guys, ho would you compare this headphone to the Grado SR225i? I want to replace my Grado because I can’t wear them more than 1 hour because they are so uncomfortable.

    Is the soundstage comparable? Does it beat the 225i in bass?

    On a side note, I also have the Amperior.

    • Reply November 17, 2012

      Mike

      Floyd,
      Just on the point of soundstage and bass, the DT770 is superior.

      I think a lot of headphones are easily superior to the Grados when it comes to soundstage and bass. Grados aren’t the most refined sounding headphones either. However their presentation does have a special thing about it — the Grado sound you can say and that’s why people keep on getting back to the grados.

      • Reply November 19, 2012

        Floyd Style

        Do you guys know any place in Canada where they sell these german headphones?

        • Reply November 19, 2012

          Mark Ferrosa

          • Reply November 19, 2012

            Mike

            Thanks, Mark.

            • Reply November 19, 2012

              Mark Ferrosa

              You’re welcome Mike. I ordered these cans. Can’t wait!

          • Reply November 20, 2012

            Floyd Style

            thanks Marc, I finally found a local place at 195$ CAD!

            • Reply November 20, 2012

              L.

              do tell us about your findings

            • Reply November 20, 2012

              Mark Ferrosa

              I’m glad that I can help u.

  • Reply November 17, 2012

    sindri1980

    Hi everyone,

    Between the Alo National, C421 and Asgard, which one do you recommend for the DT 770 LE? Do you have a better suggestion?

    Thanks!

    • Reply November 19, 2012

      Mike

      I would go with the ALO National or the Matrix Mini Portable.

      The Yulong, it should work but how good the pairing, I wouldn’t know.

  • Reply November 18, 2012

    ryan

    Finally…got it, got it!

    • Reply November 19, 2012

      L.

      Aaaand?

      • Reply November 19, 2012

        ryan

        And enjoying it. This should be my second last pair of headphones.

        • Reply November 19, 2012

          Mike

          Good to hear that, Ryan!

        • Reply November 19, 2012

          L.

          Wanna bet? 😉

          • Reply November 19, 2012

            ryan

            really…really my second last pair…

    • Reply November 19, 2012

      Trent_D

      Well?

  • Reply November 20, 2012

    John Clare

    Mike and Lieven, you guys like to torture us ;). Seriously though, I got the AKG K550 a few weeks ago on the strength of your review and a few others. They’re great. However, I find myself now wondering if that was the right decision, given that you guys are basically describing this Beyerdynamic as a better relative of the K550. Is the difference that significant? Should I feel buyer’s remorse? 😛

    • Reply November 20, 2012

      Mike

      Hi John,
      We like the DT770 better than the K550 but the K550 also has other strengths that the DT770 doesn’t have. Soundstage I still think the K550 still has the upper hand.

  • Reply November 21, 2012

    ryan

    Have anyone tried velour pads on this?

    • Reply November 21, 2012

      Mike

      Ryan,
      I’m going to ask Lieven to give it a try with velour.

      • Reply November 21, 2012

        L.

        Lieven Doesn’t have velour Beyer pads at the moment. But as this pad was chosen for the AE, I was thinking of sticking to it. I’m not a fan of (p)leather but on this DT770PRO is doesn’t bother me at all.

        • Reply November 22, 2012

          John Clare

          I think part of the curiosity over this is just how much of a difference the pads are making versus whatever changes were made to the drivers. I’ve even seen some people assert that the sound differences in the AE are solely due to the different pads.

          • Reply November 22, 2012

            L.

            Of curse, that’s what Beyer even says themselves, it’s the pads. the drivers weren’t touched as far as we all know

            • Reply November 22, 2012

              John Clare

              Well, surely that’s not completely true. The impedance of 32 Ohms is unique to this edition. Who is to say they stopped there? I just find it hard to believe that the pads alone could influence the sound as radically (grain for example) as you guys have stated.

              • Reply November 22, 2012

                L.

                Agreed. What’s for sure is that they sound really good and different

            • Reply December 9, 2012

              Guest

              From Sweetwaves website: Its newly developed 32 Ohms drivers are based on our world-renowned 80 Ohms and 250 Ohms drivers.

  • Reply November 21, 2012

    Adam

    Thanks for an awesome review! I am seriously considering these as a new cans for a home rig, and therefore have some questions: how would you consider the price/grainess-free & transparency ratio on 770 AE, especially compared to cans like: Senns HD650, Ultrasone PRO900 shure SRH940?
    Would you consider these cans as bass-heavy?
    Which of the abovementioned cans will have the most direct, polished and true to the source vocals and which will be the most “immediate” sounding?
    How would you compare treble extensions between these?

    I can get 770 AE new for approx. 160$ here in Poland – it’s actually much cheaper than _used_ HD600/650/PRO900/SRH940, so my line of thinking is like that – even if they have a sightly bloated bass, IF the sound is grainess-free enough and direct enough – they would be a no brainer.
    I’m just about to complete my main speakers-based rig that includes Yamahas NS-1000M, Audio Lot Singe-Ended Tube/FET hybrid power amp w/ resistor laddder vol. control, all siver-wired etc. (DAC will be Chord/Theta or similar) – and since I’ve been many years using Senns HD485 which are good phones in their price range, in a new reality, I simply need more transparent phones _now_, before I move to the Stax (or maybe, ortho…) world, phones that will be transparent enough but will have a complementary (by what I mean: “Slightly different”, i.e. Good for electronica, dubstep, pop and the like, _but_ with direct, clear vocals…) sound signature to Stax (that’s why I’d prefer sth like Beyer, instead of “detail monster” SRH940. And I assume that regarding to DT 770 AE – they will have more similar sonic balance to orthos than Stax – am I right?). What do you think?

    Thanks $ Rgds

    • Reply November 22, 2012

      Mike

      Grain free, the DT770 32Ω is more grain free than the 650, Pro900, or the SRH940. Pro900 perhaps second best.

      A tad bass heavy but still not a true basshead phone.

      Vocals the most direct, unpolished DT770 LE and the 940.

      Treble extension, they all extend pretty high I really don’t see a cut off on these modern dynamic headphones.

      Staxes, unless you have a top end 009 system, I really don’t enjoy the lesser Staxes. Just because they are electrostatic doesn’t mean they are good.

      Orthos, well, they come in different flavors, I really can’t say if the Beyer is more similar to orthos.

  • Reply November 21, 2012

    Elbert Rijnberg

    It is great with electronic music! Perhaps it’s THE headphone for electronic music. I also have the older 770 80 ohm version and the new LE blows it away c.o.m.p.l.e.t.e.l.y.

    • Reply November 21, 2012

      L.

      Glad to see you like it Elbert. It’s truly great

  • Reply November 21, 2012

    L.

    Hey I missed this question, sorry.

  • Reply November 22, 2012

    Grumpy

    Would you recommend the DT 770 LE for classical music, especially symphonies and strings?

    • Reply November 22, 2012

      Mike

      Yes I would. Though it’s still 2nd to the Hd650 for symphonies.

      Strings, I can’t seem to find a good headphone for strings.

      • Reply November 22, 2012

        Grumpy

        Thank you. What an excellent review!

  • Reply November 22, 2012

    ryan

    hey L…you were saying ” although the 88 printing could have been a bit more visible.”….where is the 88 printing? on the earcups? i didn’t any 88 printing

    • Reply November 22, 2012

      L.

      I guess I was right then huh? 😉 Check out this picture: http://www.headfonia.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/dt770_32_le_03.jpg

      The grey little blocks under the DT770 text on the cups on the side, in the background, are “88” printing, the picture shows it quite clearly.

      • Reply November 22, 2012

        ryan

        hahaha….i didn’t realise those are number 88…..just grey little blocks to me until i see the photos

  • Reply November 25, 2012

    D.r. Hilerio

    How does the DT770’s sound compare to the Philips X1?

    • Reply November 25, 2012

      L.

      The X1 one’s sound is warmer and smoother and it has more bass. It has a thicker sound with even more body/mids. very relaxed sound.

      • Reply December 10, 2012

        andkoppel

        L. Which one of them would you consider a better all-rounder? And, do you find the X1 better that the HD600?

        • Reply December 11, 2012

          L.

          I think the AE is the better all rounder, it certainly has the best price quality ratio of both. The X1 is so smooth and warm. Mike will review the X1 soon. I also have the Denon 600 coming up, thats a X1 and AE contender for sure. X1 and HD600 are so different, the X1 is even warmer as the HD650

          • Reply December 11, 2012

            Ken Stuart

            You should make a Best Quality to Price Ratio Headphones list. Off the top of my head, DT770AE, HE-400 and SE215. Mike would probably add HD202.

            • Reply December 11, 2012

              John Clare

              That list sounds like a great idea. “Best buy”

  • Reply November 27, 2012

    smithj33

    Any reason that a DT770 80 or 250 with the softskin pads wouldn’t sound the same? Can’t find the LE anywhere in the US.

  • Reply November 27, 2012

    L.

    Keep us posted. Let’s hope a few will be available in the US before it sells out.

  • Reply November 30, 2012

    Michael

    so you prefer the sound of the LE version from the one of the 250Ohm?

    • Reply November 30, 2012

      Mike

      Yes for sure.

      • Reply December 1, 2012

        Michael

        Thank you for replying…. and compared to the 880 edition?

        • Reply December 1, 2012

          Trent_D

          Mike says in the review he has never been a Beyerdynamic fan. Since he is raving about this headphone, I might venture a guess to say he likes this better any, save perhaps the flagship models.

          • Reply December 1, 2012

            Michael

            Hmmm… yes you have a point but I would appreciate his opinion too! 🙂

            • Reply December 1, 2012

              Trent_D

              I really want an excuse to buy this headphone.

              • Reply December 1, 2012

                ryan

                My excuse to buy this, I needed a closed back….my next excuse, I probably need an ortho (he500, LCD 2) since I already had open and close dynamics

                • Reply December 2, 2012

                  Michael Psyrras

                  The thing that concerns me is the somehow boomy bass that is mentioned in the review …. I thing that I prefer the less bass than the boomy bass…..

                  • Reply December 3, 2012

                    Michael Psyrras

                    Any comparison with the HD25 1-II would help me a lot … thnx!!!

                    • December 3, 2012

                      Mike

                      The HD25-1 sounds more closed, narrow soundstage but more focused. The bass is definitely not boomy on the HD25-1.

                    • December 3, 2012

                      Michael Psyrras

                      Yes I have listened a lot to the 25s and I am trying to decide between the two

                    • December 5, 2012

                      Michael

                      For classical, opera, vocal, ethnic, jazz.. ??
                      Compared to the 25’s?

                    • December 5, 2012

                      Trent_D

                      The HD25’s are known for having a very focused, closed sound. Great for rock, not so much the classical.

                    • December 5, 2012

                      Michael

                      Thnx for answering… Yes I know but I tend to like this “forwardness” even for the genres I mention above.. for example I like the strings that the 25’s do even though they are not the most neutral… I had the chance to hear a lot to the 25’s but not to the LE’s…
                      As I wrote in a local forum I would like very much a can that would be like the HD25 1-II (body, forwardness, bass, impact) and the AKG K271mkII (air, neutrality) I own, mixed in one…lol!!

                    • December 6, 2012

                      Trent_D

                      Only one way to really find out!

                    • December 7, 2012

                      Michael

                      After loosing the French Amazon offer of the HD650 🙁 back on my initial dilemma hd25 1-II or 770LE…

                    • December 7, 2012

                      L.

                      Those are different. Bass impact, great body, warm less aggressive, unoffensive treble = AE. The HD25 is more aggressive, treble, punchy bass, less oundstage, on ear (blah!) Etc etc etc

                    • December 14, 2012

                      Michael

                      Ordered…

                    • December 26, 2012

                      Michael

                      Well I have them for two days and the initial impressions are very good… the main characteristic of their sound and fit is “non tiring” in the most positive way… I mean that “non-tiring” doesn’t mean lack of detail or highs at all!

                      The bass is for me more elastic than boomy, in every way not too controlled. I would like it to be a little more controlled but it’s not at all bad as it is (depending and on the recording). The mids are definitely there but I would like some more presence (I like the “in your face” presentation of the HD25 1-II for example)!

                      Anyway these are very initial impressions and I will come back in some days…

                      Generally I am quite pleased with the overall performance … if only a taaad more mids!!

                    • December 26, 2012

                      L.

                      Have you listened to other Beyers? 🙂

                    • December 26, 2012

                      Michael

                      No I have not!

                    • December 28, 2012

                      Michael

                      Sorry for the double post…
                      The other Beyer I want to audition for sure is the 880 edition 600ohm! From what i read it has the best sound between the 880s and I am very curious about how it sounds!

                    • December 28, 2012

                      Mike

                      It sounds like a regular 250Ω 880, but smoother across the frequencies.

                    • December 28, 2012

                      Michael

                      So … this is enough to prefer it to the others.. No?

                    • December 28, 2012

                      Michael

                      And another question: what amp do you think would be the best for the LEs? No matter portable, transportable or desktop! Ideally I would like to get a portable and a desktop but no money left… 🙂
                      I own the O2 and the E9i!
                      How do they respond to beter equipment?
                      How much money would you spend to amp them, and to “better” in every way the amps I already have?
                      Τhnx!!!

                    • December 28, 2012

                      L.

                      The O2 does really good with the AE but you have a little less bass. that’s why I, on the go, use it with the C421 with bass boost. the AE doesn’t need a big amp to make it shine. as a matter of fact even at home I normally use the C421 with the AE, or the Woo Audio 2, but that is overkill for the AE.

                    • December 29, 2012

                      Michael

                      In no way I would want more quantity of bass from the LEs … Some more quality though (control) yes for sure…
                      You think that c421 is a worthy improvement over the O2 I already have? (with no BB for sure 🙂 ), or a better source as Mike says?
                      All the above speaking for portable devices because at home I think I have a quite good source (m.mini – hiface2 & evo dac – A+)

                      And something else… i think that the velour pads improve the bass a bit..

                    • December 29, 2012

                      Mike

                      The C421 I think has sweeter mids and overall a more musical sound signature over the O2. It will not however improve the quality of the bass. You need something like the Burson amps for that (yes improving bass is not easy).

                    • December 29, 2012

                      Nate

                      Would the C421 be sufficient if I am planning to listen from my laptop? is It better to get a standalone DAC on top of the C421?

                    • December 31, 2012

                      Michael

                      Nate I think that a DAC is mandatory… an amp too of course!!

                    • December 31, 2012

                      Michael

                      For my portative needs I think I will stick with the O2 for now and I will try to get a better source in the future!
                      For in house use.. what about a Vioelectric model? I know that you said that V200 is too much for the LEs but I tend to have o positive feeling about this company…
                      I am considering Vioelectric because I want the amp to pair well with my other cans too (K701, K271mkII, TH-7B… HD650 and 25 1-II -to come hopefully-)

                    • December 29, 2012

                      Mike

                      I think amp requirements is not that heavy for the 770AE. What made a difference is a better source. I would get an improved source and go direct.

                    • December 29, 2012

                      Michael

                      Such as…???
                      Now I use the O2 with an iPod and with my Galaxy Nexus runing the NeutronMP

                    • December 29, 2012

                      Mike

                      You can add a CLAS to the Ipod, or look at the audiophile players such as Ibasso DX100, Hifiman HM602/HM801, Altmann Tera Player, Astell & Kern AK100.. There are a lot really.. Here are some links:

                      http://www.headfonia.com/the-player-astell-kern-ak100/

                      http://www.headfonia.com/altmann-micro-machines-tera-player-review/

                      http://www.headfonia.com/colorfly-c4/

                      http://www.headfonia.com/the-fostex-hp-p1/

                    • December 29, 2012

                      Trent_D

                      You can get the hifiman HM601 for a mere $200.

                    • December 29, 2012

                      Mike

                      I think it’s my favorite beyer so far..

                    • December 29, 2012

                      Michael

                      Now I lost you.. 🙂 you mean the LEs or the 880/600ohm?

                    • December 29, 2012

                      Mike

                      Sorry. I mean the LE is my favorite beyer so far.

                    • December 26, 2012

                      Michael

                      No I haven’t. Except from some minute listening to the COP and to the 1350 (or 50p I don’t remember) within a very bad system and with very low quality music so this doesn’t count I suppose.
                      After the 770LE I should hear some more Beyers though

                    • December 27, 2012

                      Mike

                      Very good impression, Michael. I agree with the mids as well.

                      Elastic vs Boomy??? You lost me there.

                    • December 28, 2012

                      Michael

                      Thnx Mike… Well may be my english are not so good.. 🙂
                      By saying that I find the bass more elastic than boomy I mean that if we put from one side the hyper-controled bass and to the other the boomy bass the “elastic” bass is somewhere in the middle and the bass of the LEs is imo somewhere in the limit between elastic and boomy… I don’t know if it’s clearer now!
                      In any way if we decide to say that their bass is boomy definitely it isn’t so much that it can limit the music pleasure. From the other hand I would like it to be more controlled for sure!!!!!

                    • December 28, 2012

                      Mike

                      Clear enough, Michael, and I agree. I use the adjective “slightly boomy”. 😉

                    • December 7, 2012

                      Trent_D

                      If you were going to go with the HD650 before, the 770 AE would be more along those lines.

        • Reply December 1, 2012

          ryan

          Mike says, ”I think it’s more musical than the DT880. Less dry, less bright more bass.”

  • Reply December 4, 2012

    Mark Ferrosa

    Mike and Lieven are right. Very detailed and balanced cans. Lighter on bass than dt770 pro 80. Maybe i try velour pads later.

    • Reply December 6, 2012

      smithj33

      Mark, how is the bass? Too boomy or non-issue?

      • Reply December 6, 2012

        Mark Ferrosa

        No problem about the bass. I tried new velour pads and I didn’t like it: too bright treble and less bass. Softskin pads provide better sound balance and don’t get too hot as my old ath-m50.

        • Reply December 6, 2012

          L.

          The pads are good 🙂

          • Reply December 6, 2012

            Mark Ferrosa

            For sure!

        • Reply December 17, 2012

          Ni Hao

          How does this DT 770 LE compared to your ath-m50?

          • Reply December 17, 2012

            Trent_D

            The review has a comparison of these two phones.

            “The good old Audio-Technica M50, one of my first headphones I owned, sounds a lot more forward and bright, with less body and bass. It’s also very clear but less detailed and a lot less musical. It do is more neutral or analytical to my experience. /Lieven”

          • Reply December 18, 2012

            Mark Ferrosa

            Ath-M50 is less detailed and not so musical, as Lieven already posted but my m50 sounds darker than Dt770AE.

            • Reply December 18, 2012

              L.

              That’s…impressive

              • Reply December 19, 2012

                Mark Ferrosa

                It seems that there are differences between some m50 editions. I bought mine from Amazon UK 2010/dec.

          • Reply December 18, 2012

            L.

            The good old Audio-Technica M50, one of my first headphones I owned,
            sounds a lot more forward and bright, with less body and bass. It’s also
            very clear but less detailed and a lot less musical. It do is more
            neutral or analytical to my experience.

  • Reply December 6, 2012

    andy

    why these are better then akg 550 ?

    • Reply December 6, 2012

      L.

      I’m pretty sure we answered that yesterday or a couple of days ago 😉

      • Reply December 10, 2012

        andkoppel

        I don’t know if better but more natural sounding and without that artificial highs I find in the AKGs.

  • Reply December 6, 2012

    John Clare

    Paid for. Should be here next week. Hoping for a faster paced version of the HD 650…

    • Reply December 6, 2012

      L.

      Keep us posted! What amp and source will you be using?

      • Reply December 6, 2012

        John Clare

        Will do! CLAS+National but I also have the c421 :).

    • Reply January 16, 2013

      Rogier Schreurs

      Is it’s level comparable with the 650?

  • Reply December 6, 2012

    smithj33

    Just wanted to post for people in the US, B&H is taking orders with expected availability Dec 30.

  • Reply December 6, 2012

    Jack Shen

    I purchased my DT 770 Pro 32 after reading your review and comparing them against my K550 (which I also bought thanks to your review in May). I don’t think one is superior to the other. Although the 770 has a great bass, the K550 has *much* more detail and clarity in the treble. In my conclusion I think the 770 is a good compliment for the K550, I use it for gaming and movies but the K550 is still king for music 🙂

  • Reply December 6, 2012

    L.

    Check out what Headfonia reader Keph is doing to his DT770 AE!

    https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.497661130278589.122647.145341288843910&type=1

    🙂

    • Reply December 6, 2012

      John Clare

      For those of us who can’t spot what’s going on, can you explain please?

      • Reply December 6, 2012

        L.

        You don’t have FB? It’s a DT770 AE with LCD2 pads

        • Reply December 6, 2012

          John Clare

          I do have FB but I couldn’t tell what the difference was. Thanks!

    • Reply December 6, 2012

      Mark Ferrosa

      I would like to know about sound and comfort chages if possible.

      • Reply December 6, 2012

        L.

        It’s being talked about on FB

        • Reply December 6, 2012

          L.

          And while you’re there, don’t forget to like our FB page 😉

          • Reply December 6, 2012

            Mark Ferrosa

            Oops! I still don’t have a facebook profile.

        • Reply December 6, 2012

          Mark Ferrosa

          Ok. I just saw the pics.

  • Reply December 7, 2012

    John Clare

    In the US B+H is starting to fulfill orders and the headphones as of this message are in stock. Sweet Wave also has some.

  • Reply December 7, 2012

    Pavel Kostychev

    Just received my DT770 LE!
    Pure joy (1 hour burn)! My setup: macbook pro + Fiio E10 (DAC) + Musical Fidelity X-Can v3. I found that sound is very detailed comparing to my AH-D2000. Also the bass extension is very good. Thanks a lot for review.

    • Reply December 7, 2012

      L.

      Glad you like it and enjoy the AE, it’s hard not to! I like the E10 dac with the AE as well.

  • Reply December 7, 2012

    L.

    I’m wondering how many people ordered the AE after having read our review 😀

    • Reply December 9, 2012

      Trent_D

      More than one I would guess.

      • Reply December 10, 2012

        andkoppel

        I did. The AE just arrived and out of the box they are fun. I like them better than the AKG550 that sound a bit artificial and metalic to me.

        • Reply December 10, 2012

          Julius

          Like chewing on foil paper

    • Reply December 10, 2012

      John Clare

      I ordered mine based on your review. I also ordered the K-550 based on your review. The K-550 truly is reference quality but even with a good seal it doesn’t have enough base in my opinion, and the piercing treble and upper mid gives me a headache :/. I’ve gone back to my modded Sennheiser HD 558 – so much more fun, but I still need a closed headphone. My DT-770 AE arrives today. Will let you know.

      • Reply December 11, 2012

        John Clare

        Got them. Sounded a bit odd for the first few minutes but seems to have settled a bit. What do you think the burn-in time on these is?

        I think you guys nailed the review on this one. Smooth…. Reminds me of my modded HD 558 but without the open headphone’s wider soundstage, the bass is more controlled, and zero grain. Definitely better technicalities than the 558 – approaching the K-550 but without the harsh “chewing on foil paper” as Julius puts it. And very musical. Worth the wait. I’ll reserve judgement on the fatigue for now since I’ve only been listening for a short while. iPod -> CLAS -> National

        Btw, if you want to compare the AKG K-550 to the DT-770 AE or a Sennheiser, put on (*gulp*) Ke$ha’s “We R Who We R”. I know, I know, it’s compressed pop, but really, try it out – it’ll make you hate the K-550. I tested it on the Wife after she said: “But you already have 2 sets of expensive headphones”. Then I made her listen to that song on the K-550 and she immediately grimaced in horror. The HD-558 then blew her mind. The AE is even better.

        Thanks L and Mike.

        • Reply December 11, 2012

          John Clare

          Noticing the boomy bass more after several hours of listening. It’s a little fatiguing.

          • Reply December 11, 2012

            L.

            I love the bass 🙂 The advantage of using the C421 is that you have a BB switch for when you want more or less bass. Mostly it is “ON”. So does this make you like the AE less?

          • Reply December 14, 2012

            ryan

            Agree with John…

            Went back to the HD650 for a while yesterday for classical/orchestral…

            For low-mid volume listening, the AE is enjoyable with a little of the boomy bass…but when I am listening to classical/orchestra, I would push the volume higher than normal listening level…this is where the AE starts to distort whereby the HD650 still manage up to the maximum volume level.

          • Reply December 14, 2012

            Mike

            Yes otherwise it would be perfect.

        • Reply December 11, 2012

          Trent_D

          That isn’t fair to the K550. All you are saying is that it laid out a lousy recording. It can sound pretty awesome with some good recordings.

          • Reply December 11, 2012

            John Clare

            You could view it that way, but I think it also shows that the K-550 is not a good all-rounder.

            • Reply December 11, 2012

              Trent_D

              I agree there. It isn’t a good jack of all trades.

    • Reply December 12, 2012

      Isaiah Mackler

      I did! Should arrive on Thursday.

    • Reply December 29, 2012

      Jakob Hviid

      Well i just ordered mine. 🙂 Great review. Thanks!

    • Reply January 2, 2013

      James Fleming

      On the strength of this review I’ve ordered one.

      Now to figure out which amp to get 🙂

  • Reply December 8, 2012

    Julius

    I just purchased a used Dt770 limited. Hopefully, I will enjoy it.

    • Reply December 8, 2012

      Trent_D

      Where did you find one of the used variety? Let us know what you think.

      • Reply December 9, 2012

        Julius

        There is one Demo used set left on Ebay. Get on it quick if you want to buy it http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=271118008512&ssPageName=ADME:X:BORO:US:1123

        • Reply December 9, 2012

          Trent_D

          Thanks, but if my wife sees one more piece of new audio gear come my way, she’ll have me.

          • Reply December 9, 2012

            Julius

            I had the same sentiment. I canceled my offer on it and think I’d rather wait until I can demo it before purchasing anything. I am perfectly happy with my customs and my HE500. Gotta kill the collector in me…

            • Reply December 9, 2012

              Trent_D

              I finally have my HD650, a dacport lx and a crack kit on they way, and what am I thinking? “Hmmm, this HE500 looks nice…” It never ends for people like us, I imagine.

              • Reply December 9, 2012

                Julius

                The HE500 is still my favorite open back. Shame really, my Bottlehead just stopped working a few days ago and needs to be sent in for repairs :[ Are you going to shoot for the Speedball?

                • Reply December 9, 2012

                  Trent_D

                  Yes. I snagged one during their cyber monday sale. 15% off. I am also going to build one of their power cords to see if it really makes a difference. Do you have the Crack or the Sex?

                  • Reply December 9, 2012

                    Julius

                    Basic Crack. I’ve never heard any other versions.

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Trent_D

                      Have you heard the he-300, not to suddenly jump ship.

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Julius

                      Yep. I’ve owned both versions.

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Trent_D

                      The reason I ask is that I have the HD650, which is great for classical, and the Superlux HD660 which I am loving for rcok, but now my attention is turning to something to handle what lies in between. I was thinking the HE-300 might be a cheaper, and easier to drive answer than the he-500. What do you think (I;m talking for jazz, folk, vocals, etc)?

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Julius

                      I don’t think the HE300 is Intimate or immersing enough to be used as a specialist headphone for those genres. I can’t recommend anything for those genres because I still have not found anything suitable in that price range that satisfies me for Jazz or Vocals.

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Trent_D

                      I did listen to the he300 awhile back, and I recalled loving it for jazz, but my memory isn’t so great.

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Ken Stuart

                      What is the problem with the HD650 for Jazz/Folk/Vocals ?

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Trent_D

                      It works well. I would like something a little faster, and perhaps a tad more forward. And heck, who am I kidding. I would love to have headphones of different flavors. A hifiman would be a good next one.

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Julius

                      Trust your gut. You know what might make you happy more than anyone else. 🙂

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Trent_D

                      I’m a huge geek. It will always be something else.

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Julius

                      Amen, Brotha’. Amen.

                    • December 9, 2012

                      Trent_D

                      So say we all!

          • Reply December 9, 2012

            L.

            That’s why I have all my orders delivered at my parent’s place 😉

            • Reply December 9, 2012

              Trent_D

              I would get caught, and then it would be even worse.

        • Reply December 9, 2012

          NubTAM94

          If there aren’t any takers… I’ll have it.

          Maybe not.
          I’m still broke after raiding ebay for tubes for my Crack

          • Reply December 9, 2012

            Trent_D

            What was your best Tube find?

  • Reply December 9, 2012

    smithj33

    Just wanted to throw this out there in case some missed it, but these are different drivers. From their website: Its newly developed 32 Ohms drivers are based on our world-renowned 80 Ohms and 250 Ohms drivers.

  • Reply December 10, 2012

    Wilson Yee

    Hi Leven, have you tried the DT770 AE with the La Figaro339?If you do so, can you share your experience?

    • Reply December 10, 2012

      L.

      Of course I have, the result actually is pretty good for a 32 ohm headphone but the AE is very easy to drive. It’s like the WA2 but a bit warmer, more bass. The WA2 is clearer and clearer, both great with the WA2!

  • Reply December 11, 2012

    andkoppel

    I like the AEs much better than the HFI-780. They sound more natural and mature. Less bass and highs (thankfully so) than HFI. And AEs has a neutral and nice mid, which I don’t remember the Ultrasones having any at all.

    • Reply December 13, 2012

      ExpectationGap

      Hmmn… While I agree that the AE is more natural and mature, the HFI-780 is pretty forward with plenty of mid and (initially) bright highs. Personally – the AEs aren’t my cup of tea, I’m returning them to sweetwaveaudio.com – so if your in the market, you can nab a barely used, open-box set of these.

  • Reply December 12, 2012

    John Clare

    Any ideas on what would be the closest open back headphone equivalent of the DT-770 AE?

    • Reply December 12, 2012

      Mike

      Maybe the Fidelio L1. Not really equivalent, but if you want the closest open back equivalent then the L1.

      The Beyer T5P actually is also quite similar but that’s a flagship reference model and it’s also a closed back.

      • Reply December 26, 2012

        andkoppel

        Mike what kind of upgrade, if any would the T5P be?

        • Reply December 26, 2012

          Mike

          Sorry, what do you mean by that?

          • Reply December 26, 2012

            andkoppel

            How would you compare the DT770LE to the T5p? Both being closed headphones and portable. Or in other words what do you get for 1,000 more dollars from Beyerdynamic if you choose the T5p?

            • Reply December 26, 2012

              Mike

              Well the difference in audio is never linear to the money you spend, so it’s not going to be $1,000 of a difference.

              The T5P is more refined, smoother, more controlled bass. It definitely is a more capable headphone technically. Is it a more fun headphone to listen to? Not necessarily. The 770LE indeed is an excellent value.

  • Reply December 12, 2012

    Bookaboo

    Hi Mike, had a listen to the Dt770 LE through the ipod and found the mids a little recessed and the highs a bit spiky – will both of these attributes improve with amplification – specifically with a tube amp as I loved the detail and separation I was hearing but found the treble a little annoying. I’m a huge HD650 fan BTW 🙂

    • Reply December 12, 2012

      Mike

      A tube amp would improve it vastly, and also a better source.

      • Reply December 12, 2012

        John Clare

        I was thinking of getting a bottlehead crack but I thought that was only for high impedance headphones, not the AE?

        • Reply December 12, 2012

          L.

          The Crack is OTL, so yes. I did try the AE with it and it does fine, at home I do use the AE on all of my OTL amps, but the Crack is the least good with the AE tbh.

          • Reply December 12, 2012

            John Clare

            Interesting but makes sense. What are the best tube amps for the AE then?

            • Reply December 12, 2012

              L.

              It’s mostly the tubes that influence the sound of the OTL amp. I for one really like the WA2 with the AE

              • Reply December 12, 2012

                John Clare

                Thanks! Who needs a second kidney anyhow…

                • Reply December 12, 2012

                  Trent_D

                  That’s the spirit!

  • Reply December 20, 2012

    Brandon

    I bought a pair of DT 770 Pro 32’s after reading this review as my first pair of headphones and have been very pleasantly surprised. Thanks for the insightful review!

    • Reply December 20, 2012

      L.

      Glad you like them!

      • Reply December 20, 2012

        Brandon

        Not trying to be a nuisance but would you be able to recommend any sub $800 amps? Thanks!

        • Reply December 20, 2012

          L.

          For what headphones? Tube or non tube?

          • Reply December 21, 2012

            Brandon

            Which would you recommend for the dt 770 Pro 32’s? I don’t really mind whether it’s a tube or non-tube 🙂

            • Reply December 21, 2012

              L.

              339! 😀 Serious though, any decent amp, tube or non tube can drive the DT770 AE just fine, I mostly use it with the $180 C421 on the go and at work and with the WA2 or 339 at home.

  • Reply December 21, 2012

    Paul

    I’m no audio expert, but I bought a pair of the DT 770 pro LE’s on the strength of this review, and I have to say that they sound like they were designed just for me.

    For the money, they’re perfect!

    Thanks for the review, for my ears, it was spot on!

    • Reply December 21, 2012

      Trent_D

      From the response, it sounds like they were designed for a lot of people. I think Mike and L deserve a kickback from Beyer.

      • Reply December 21, 2012

        John Clare

        I agree with Trent.

      • Reply December 21, 2012

        Mike

        Thanks, Trent.

        Lieven is getting a free Beyerdynamic T-shirt I think. 🙂

      • Reply December 21, 2012

        L.

        We’re just happy to have found this gem and made so many people happy listeners

    • Reply December 21, 2012

      Mike

      Really happy to hear that, Paul!

  • Reply December 21, 2012

    Radu

    I also think of getting these headphones. I need them mostly for hip-hop, electronic and maybe some ambient. Are they really good for these genres, I really want a nice punchy and extended bass.

    Should I go up with the price for HE-400?

    Thanks in advance!

    • Reply December 21, 2012

      L.

      Maybe for those genres you are best of with a an even more bass focused headphone. HE400 is nice too.

  • Reply December 21, 2012

    giantstairs

    Great review! I was hoping someone could point me in the right direction to find these at a good price shipped to Spain. Thanks!

    • Reply December 21, 2012

      L.

      Thank you. the big sites are selling it for around 200. Only some local sites go under that price, lowest I have seen is 143€ in Holland. I don’t know any local spanish sites, sorry. Google? One of our readers maybe?

      • Reply December 21, 2012

        giantstairs

        The site from Holland doesn’t seem to ship to Spain. I have emailed another site but so far no response. Don’t know of too many eu shops and I don’t know of any local stores that carry Beyerdynamic. Amazon Spain doesn’t have them either.
        I can however get the Philips L1 and X1 for less than 200€ shipped. Is it worth it to hold out for the LE’s?

        I listen to a mix of music, jeff buckley, foo fighters, xtc, to keith jarrett, coltrane and some classical. They don’t have to be closed, although it woudn’t hurt and comfort is a priority. I also had a thought to save some cash and pick up the Creative Aurvana Live. Has anyone here had a chance to compare some of these options?
        Thanks!

        • Reply December 22, 2012

          L.

          X1 is very good too. review soon (january)!

    • Reply December 26, 2012

      Michael

      thomann???

  • Reply December 21, 2012

    ryan

    Is the T5p bigger than dt770?

    • Reply December 22, 2012

      Mike

      More or less same

    • Reply December 27, 2012

      Albert Harris

      the most different thing is the clamping force.. T5p much more comfortable than 770 AE. i need more than one month only for stretch his headband using my novels.. with T5p i could enjoy it start from the first.

  • Reply December 22, 2012

    Isaiah Mackler

    These things are ridiculously comfortable, and though I like them better amped, they don’t sound horrible straight from an ipod. I’ve finally found a headphone I can wear for hours without fatigue of any kind. Just love them! What a great all rounder. Thanks for the review!

    • Reply December 22, 2012

      L.

      Glad you like it!

    • Reply December 22, 2012

      Mike

      Thanks, Isaiah!

  • Reply December 24, 2012

    andy

    will be good combination with audinst mx1 ? i want fiio e10 bud in the review is said it is not good combination

    • Reply December 26, 2012

      andy

      please ?

      • Reply December 26, 2012

        Trent_D

        They just said the soundstage wasn’t the best. The e17 would improve that.

        • Reply December 27, 2012

          andy

          isnt audinst od udac 2 better than e17 ?

          • Reply December 27, 2012

            Mike

            Udac2 < E17 < Audinst HUD-MX.

    • Reply December 27, 2012

      Albert Harris

      centrance dacport will be a nice combo with this AE. Audinst MX1 learly has a narrower soundstage than DACport.. the other option, you could try fostex hp-p1. the combination quiet awesome..

  • Reply December 26, 2012

    Alex Burrows

    Can these compete with the HE-400s?

    • Reply December 26, 2012

      Mike

      Yes, definitely.

    • Reply December 28, 2012

      Julius

      I got my first listen last night. For a closed back, these are excellent and I wish I had the cash to buy them. I have no closed backs right now, but if I could get one ( ahem, coughmikegetmeafreeloanerkty) I would have the cable trimmed and would use it to sit outside with or something like that. The Beyer is smoother in the upper region but vocals actually sound smaller, but the overall depth and width of the Beyer is noticeably bigger than the HE400.

      • Reply January 4, 2013

        Uhh As

        Comparing the DT 770 AE and HE-400, which one has better/deeper bass?

        Are you saying HE-400s have better mids but worse soundstage than DT 770 AE?

        • Reply January 4, 2013

          Julius

          I feel safe in saying the HE400 has much more powerful and deep bass than the Beyer AE. Everything on the HE400 sounds physically larger, but the Beyer has better sound staging qualities in general, better depth, more of a sense of width, more air and separation. I also think the Beyer has the superior upper region, its was noticeably smoother and less harsh than the HE400.

  • Reply December 27, 2012

    Albert Harris

    Dear My.. Mike and L, both of you really can write! you made this 770 AE sounds very good!.. Mine now at four month age, and already fully burned. Mike, Please do not hesitate to ask me for the AE if you would like to do some comparison. My boarding house only ten minutes from AH and you can always find me at STC. In my experience, this AE works very well with Fostex Hp-P1. with Burson 160D, somehow AE produce so many bass, and that impact of bass hurt my head. for my cur i think i love my AE more then my T1.. the simplicity is awesome!

    • Reply December 27, 2012

      Mike

      I think more people should have a listen on this AE.

      Hopefully Beyer won’t make this into a limited number production cause it’ll be a shame. I don’t want to see the AE price go up to $700 because it’s no longer being made.

  • Reply December 27, 2012

    Richard Lange

    just ordered my pair yesterday, i’m so excited to use it mainly for the computer connected to a creative x-fi titanium =(*_*=)

    • Reply December 27, 2012

      Mike

      Very nice, Richard!

      • Reply January 4, 2013

        Richard Lange

        just holding’ em now on my ears and i totaly got what i needed,
        rich sound, really crystal crushing, spacious highs,
        vividious, sparkling mids (if EQ’d right)
        and fully strong, seperated bass…
        FULL DETAIL ON EVERY ASPECT

  • Reply December 27, 2012

    L.

    I just read another post by someone saying the M50 has more bass as this DT770 AE and I honestly have no idea where they keep getting that from. It’s so wrong. What do you think?

    • Reply December 28, 2012

      Mike

      The M-50 does have more bass quantity though the impact is less, and the bass is muddier than the 770AE.

      • Reply December 28, 2012

        L.

        not my M50 🙂

  • Reply December 28, 2012

    driver74

    How would these, or the Custom One Pro for that matter, perform unamped and with low quality streams (i.e. internet radio)? I really like how
    the M-80s I have sound (they seem to be very forgiving), but the all-day
    comfort I’m looking for isn’t there. I never knew how bright red my ears could get.

    • Reply December 28, 2012

      Mike

      Comfort to me is roughly similar. They clamp less and is circumaural vs the M-80’s supraaural, so I think these are more comfortable than the M-80.

      The DT770 AE has better clarity, better technicalities, where the COP is darker and bassier.

  • Reply December 28, 2012

    Yago Vázquez Montes

    Hi Mike, are this better than Fidelio L1?
    I wouldn’t like something with more recessed mids than the Fidelio…

  • Reply December 29, 2012

    Paul

    These cans get better and better!!! Just listened to close mic’d recording of Suzanne Vegas’ Luka and I cried just a little bit, awesome stuff!!

  • Reply December 30, 2012

    Isaiah Mackler

    Does anyone have a portable bag or case they use with the DT770 AE?

    • Reply December 30, 2012

      Michael

      I bought the Beyer case together with the cans… it is somehow big but it protects very well and it isn’t expensive! It also has enough space to put the cables, iPod and amp in if you take some care.. I rap the amp in a smal peace of plastic with air-bubbles!!

    • Reply December 30, 2012

      L.

      I use one of the bags of my other Beyers 😉

  • Reply December 31, 2012

    smithj33

    Finally placed my order. I figured I would wait until the last day of 2012 and if they were still available I would take the chance. I will say I don’t have high expectations after listening to numerous other Beyers and being 90% happy with my HD580….but I like to be surprised, so we will see in a few days.

    • Reply December 31, 2012

      L.

      I think you’ll be surprised, in a good way 🙂

  • Reply December 31, 2012

    Dende Zwölf

    I got my DT 770 LE last Friday and as a big fan of my LCD-2 and JH16 Pro I am totally excited about this headphone! Especially for some electronic music with heavy basslines (e.g. Dub Techno, Ambient Dub).

    Thank you for the applicable review!

    Greetings from Germany 🙂

    • Reply December 31, 2012

      L.

      Our pleasure!

  • Reply January 1, 2013

    Julius

    Just not sure if I want to pull the trigger on the AE. I am selling off my HE500, my ears need something new. But, I am very happy with my Sony MA900 for all purpose enjoyment so I am really looking for something warmer, larger sounding and immensely comfortable. Ahh stress

    • Reply January 2, 2013

      Mike

      The MA900 sounds larger and more open. Bass quantity is more or less the same, with more control on the MA900.. but headphones, you know can’t be evaluated based on sections like that. As much as I think the MA900 is one of the finest Sony headphones (I really should do a review on it), I think the 770AE is better.

      • Reply January 2, 2013

        Robert_T

        I think the 770AE got to me, I got a thing for limiteds, I’m now very close to buying this. Mike, do you think the 770AE would do great with rock, vocals, jazz, and edm? Or should I look at other headphones?

        • Reply January 2, 2013

          Mike

          Rock, Vocals, Jazz are good. It has a good genre bandwith the 770AE.

          EDM?

          • Reply January 2, 2013

            Robert_T

            Oh, electronic dance music, house, trance, etc. Just bite the bullet just now, and because of that I’m in need of a cheap portable amp haha.

            What sub 100$ amp do you think would synergize well with the 770AE?

            • Reply January 3, 2013

              John Clare

              In my opinion there’s no genre that sounds bad on these phones, for what it’s worth. The more I listen to them the more I can’t imagine a better all-rounder closed headphone. They’re that good. (Can’t help you with the sub-$100 amp really other than to say they do really well with the JDS Labs CMoyBB)

              • Reply January 3, 2013

                Robert_T

                I got the impression that the JDS Labs Cmoy doesn’t work well with low impedance phones. But I’ll keep that in mind.
                Thanks for the suggestion.

                • Reply January 3, 2013

                  Trent_D

                  The DT770 are easy to drive, so the cMoy shouldn’t have any problem

                  • Reply January 3, 2013

                    John Clare

                    JDS Labs’ CMoyBB is basically the same as the c421 and you’ve seen what Lieven and Mike have said about it. DT-770 isn’t a problem for it.

      • Reply January 2, 2013

        Julius

        I have a ton of things to say about the MA900, maybe we can do a dual review again sometime in the future on it.

  • Reply January 2, 2013

    Nate

    Just ordered my DT 770 LE. Now I need an AMP/DAC to go with it. I only have my laptop as a source. Would the E17 works well with the DT 770 LE? I am looking for something not too pricey, preferably less than $300

    • Reply January 2, 2013

      Michael

      A/quest Dragonfly ???

      • Reply January 2, 2013

        Mike

        The Dragonfly, I’ve never auditioned it.

        • Reply January 2, 2013

          Michael

          Well me neither but I have read the most positive reviews from many different people.
          As long as the Nates source is a laptop only it fits his needs I suppose and it also should drive the LEs adequately given the fact that they dont need much power…

          • Reply January 2, 2013

            Mike

            Yes, thanks for the suggestion, Michael.

          • Reply January 2, 2013

            Nate

            Thanks for the answer Michael. I assume I would need an amp to go
            with the Dragonfly right? I would love to get a standalone dac + c421
            but that would cost way too much (more than the headphone itself) I also
            absolutely need a DAC because my laptop output is awful. Dragonfly seems really nice, but may be a tad bit too pricey for the 770 LE. I am just wondering if there would be a lot of improving moving up from the E17.

            • Reply January 2, 2013

              L.

              Stoner Acoustics UD100 dac ($49)+ C421. done! 🙂

              • Reply January 3, 2013

                Guest

                Do you have any advice on the cable connect the dac and amp? is it a big deal? I might just get a DF and C241 since my birthday is coming up soon 🙂

                • Reply January 4, 2013

                  L.

                  As cheap as possible 😉

            • Reply January 2, 2013

              Michael

              No you will not need an amp ..well for now 🙂 🙂 .. the DF is a H/phone amp too. That’s why I suggested it because the LEs are easy to drive! In the future may be a not very expensive amp like c421 will improve things! DF has behind it people that really know digital (G. Rankin)…
              In any way all these are my personal thoughts… I am sure Mike and L. know very well what they are suggesting …

      • Reply January 12, 2013

        dalethorn

        I tried the Dragonfly from WinXP and Foobar2000, and it played OK on some difficult tracks. Clark Terry’s Sugar Blues has some intense horns and they played loudly without any added distortion. The DT770-LE-32 seems about 3 to 5 db less efficient than the Momentum.

    • Reply January 2, 2013

      Mike

      The E17 would work, yes.

    • Reply January 3, 2013

      Nate

      • Reply January 4, 2013

        Trent_D

        I almost did it…

  • Reply January 4, 2013

    Mike Roderigo

    hey guys,
    is this pair of can really such a no brainer good all around choice for musical closed experience?
    I’m plannig to pair it with the upcoming centrance hifi-m8, and listen to music in bed once my two little girls are sleeping.
    seems a good choice to me.

    • Reply January 4, 2013

      L.

      you can’t go wrong with this one!

      • Reply January 5, 2013

        Mike Roderigo

        thanks for the feedbacks guys.
        I just ordered. I’ll keep you informed.

    • Reply January 4, 2013

      ryan

      You really have to buy it.

  • Reply January 4, 2013

    b.l.

    I just got my pair today, I dont know if my pair defective or there is some roll off @ higher frequencies. It hurts my ears sometimes because it sounds really sharp @ the ~10khz. but I am not sure… because my only other headphone is hd 650 which isnt sparkly at all.

    • Reply January 4, 2013

      b.l.

      its only specific to some songs too

      • Reply January 4, 2013

        dalethorn

        If you check the curve at Innerfidelity in the large PDF, it shows a huge peak around 8.5 khz for the regular edition DT770. These things vary a lot if you read these measurements, so there are all kinds of possibilities. Do you have the genuine 88th anniversary edition?

        • Reply January 5, 2013

          b.l.

          … i got it from dale audio, packaging and build both seems legit. I am not sure if this is defective or how its suppose to sound.

        • Reply January 5, 2013

          Mike

          I think that sounds about right with the regular 770s.

          • Reply January 5, 2013

            dalethorn

            I’ve had my finger on the B&H order button for awhile now, and hoping that the AE/SE edition has much less peak around that 8.5 khz area. Tomorrow at 6pm B&H ordering resumes and I don’t want to make a mistake.

      • Reply January 5, 2013

        b.l.

        sorry wrong spot.

    • Reply January 5, 2013

      Mike

      Thanks for posting that. I don’t think I’ve encountered anything like that with the one I use for the review.

      Maybe somebody else can help.

      • Reply January 5, 2013

        b.l.

        I am seriously loving this can because of how far and well it extends down, and how smooth the highs are and the soundstage- but whenever a girl says “she” or “spanish” there is that sybaliance that annoys me without any eq; Maybe its my amp? Maybe its just my ear being too use to the HD650?

        • Reply January 5, 2013

          L.

          What amp and dac? No sharp s here anyway, but I like to use warm sounding amps

          • Reply January 5, 2013

            b.l.

            i am just using a nuforce hdp.

            • Reply January 8, 2013

              stan zorin

              NuForce hdp is a bright/treble happy and a bit thin sounding amp. On badly engineered music it makes headphones sound more shrill and sibilant. Try getting some more mellow sounding amp like GoVibe Porta Tube or ALO the Continental
              or ALO the National.

          • Reply January 5, 2013

            b.l.

            http://www.mediafire.com/download.php?tvx86a6h6tqi1cw I first noticed it on this song on 1:05 it hurts my ear until 1:15; and it doesn’t on my AKG702 or HD650

            • Reply January 6, 2013

              Mark Ferrosa

              This sybilance will fade away. You just need more time to burn it in.

              • Reply January 6, 2013

                Mark Ferrosa

                *sibilance.

              • Reply January 7, 2013

                andkoppel

                +1 sibilance dissapears after 100+ hours of use.

            • Reply January 7, 2013

              dalethorn

              This track has very strong high frequencies and any headphone with a “flat” or neutral treble is going to sound bright and possibly harsh here. It’s a fun track though.

        • Reply January 6, 2013

          ryan

          No sibliance for mine

        • Reply January 6, 2013

          b.l.

          uh my bad I meant around the 12~13 khz, I re-tested alot; I am seriously thinking this is defective; I can not listen to any songs with female vocals with s in their songs without a -8db on my equalizer

  • Reply January 6, 2013

    Julius

    I just purchased my own DT770 AE. I am super curious to see how it stacks up against my trusty Sony Ma900 and HE400.

    • Reply January 6, 2013

      ryan

      Hahaha…You couldn’t resist this

      • Reply January 6, 2013

        Julius

        Too many people email and ask me about this set on my Facebook page. My short time with it was very enjoyable, I doubt any of us audiophiles would be able to resist it at the price I got it.

    • Reply January 6, 2013

      ryan

      add denon ad700 for comparison as well

    • Reply January 6, 2013

      L.

      Not really :p 😉

  • Reply January 6, 2013

    Nick Tam

    Just snatched up a pair from Jaben Singapore. This is such a fun listen that isn’t a bass monstrosity… I’m happy as a nut here

    • Reply January 7, 2013

      ryan

      I pm’ed you in facebook

      • Reply January 7, 2013

        Nick Tam

        I don’t think I got any messages… whaddya about?

  • Reply January 7, 2013

    Julius

    Does the DT770AE benefit from the Digizoid Zo2?

    • Reply January 7, 2013

      L.

      You need more bass?

      • Reply January 7, 2013

        Julius

        Yep

    • Reply January 7, 2013

      Mike

      You can add bass to any headphones using the Zo.

      • Reply January 8, 2013

        Julius

        Heh…I’m aware of what the Zo does. Does it benefit or not, was my question.

  • Reply January 7, 2013

    Julius

    How do the DT770 velours sound with it?

    • Reply January 8, 2013

      Mark Ferrosa

      Less bass, more treble. No good.

      • Reply January 8, 2013

        Mike

        Thanks, Mark

        • Reply January 8, 2013

          Julius

          Can you compensate with proper EQ?

          • Reply January 8, 2013

            Mark Ferrosa

            I didn’t try. I guess this isn’t a good idea.

            • Reply January 8, 2013

              Julius

              Lol. Well, I have the velours and the DT770 coming in the mail soon, so I’ll let you know what I think of it with my EQ setup.

              • Reply January 8, 2013

                Mark Ferrosa

                Ok! It’s always nice to have a second point of view.

                • Reply January 8, 2013

                  Mike

                  Happy to see all these modding going on

                  • Reply January 8, 2013

                    Julius

                    I don’t think this is a mod. But, I would love to slap some wooden cups on the DT770 once I get them. Make it a lot like my Luke Skybeyers I had years ago. Man…I really miss those.

                    • January 8, 2013

                      Mark Ferrosa

                      Even Beyer mods its products. My old dt770 pro 80 came with cheaper foams. Result: hair inside the left drive twice.

                      :/

              • Reply March 21, 2013

                George Lai

                Hi Julius. How are the velour pads on the DT770 LE? I got my DT770 LE a week ago but the pads are so sticky and hot in the tropics? Thanks

  • Reply January 7, 2013

    謝文翊

    I just bought DT770 Pro LE and I’m glad that I read Headfonia.
    LE is so good, it performs way better than its modest price tag suggests.
    Great reviews and accurate insight from Headfonia!

  • Reply January 8, 2013

    smithj33

    Got mine, and have to say….not a big fan. I need a closed phone for night listening because the wife doesn’t like the open phones at night and I thought this one would be the one, but unfortunately it’s going back. Bass is a tad fuzzy and has an artificial thump in the mid-bass. For well recorded material it’s not too bad, but I listen to all genres. Sub bass was good though. They are pretty revealing phones and doesn’t do anything positive for poorly recorded songs. The highs are nice, but a tad sizzle-y at times with cymbals. The real killer for me is vocals. A bit fuzzy and subdued compared to my HD580. I am very partial to vocals and the 770 doesn’t have the organic, inviting vocals of the 580. Actually the 770 is less detailed and a tad cold in the vocal range. Oh well, you buy, try and learn. Glad I tried these out and they should be more popular at their price point.

    • Reply January 8, 2013

      Mike

      Thanks for sharing!

      • Reply January 8, 2013

        smithj33

        I should have mentioned, anyone worried about Beyers less than forward mids will be happily surprised.

    • Reply January 8, 2013

      L.

      Sorry to hear, I think you’re one of the first not to like it. What is your source and amp if I may ask?

      • Reply January 9, 2013

        smithj33

        I know my setup isn’t new or high end, but it serves the HD580 very well. It’s a DIY SOHA tube hybrid amp. I rolled different tubes and opamps. My DAC is an old school Entech which I find more spacious and resolving than some newer inexpensive DACs. I also tried with some of my DIY CMoys and an iPhone 4S. I know it came across as I hated it, but that’s not the case. I actually really liked it for rock and hip-hop, but I listen to a lot of female vocals and it just couldn’t come close to the HD580. Male vocals were fine for the most part.
        Isaiah, I have tried a lot of phones and I think I am just a Sennheiser guy and I have to deal with it. I might give the Momentum a try or the DT250.

        • Reply January 9, 2013

          Mike

          The HD580 is indeed a classic. That and the HD650 is still very high on my list.

        • Reply January 12, 2013

          L.

          Sennheiser makes awesome headphones! If you prefer the 580 sound, I’d say enjoy it. The AE can’t be good for everyone, it would be the end of our hobby 😉 I’ll have to look up the Amp, I’d love to know more about it.

    • Reply January 8, 2013

      Isaiah Mackler

      I’ve been ABing the DT770LE w/ the Momentum, and I could see why you might say this. If you’re not amping the DT770, an amp tightens up the bass some. But as of right now, I’m enjoying the mids more from the Momentum unamped than the DT770. I think you might like the Momentum. The vocals are both warm and detailed. The price increase is steap, but if you’re not already using a portable amp, I’m not finding the Momentum really needs one.

      • Reply January 8, 2013

        Isaiah Mackler

        But if you want to rock out, I’d definitely take the DT770. Just a very nice earthy, live feel to it w/o losing detail. Nice instrument separation, too. I think the Momentum may have more polish and clarity but the DT770 is more viscerally enjoyable.

  • Reply January 9, 2013

    Kevin Clark

    I love the 770’s. I really think people need to give these at least 100 hours break-in. The treble and bass both settle down over time. I think these are the most musical headphone I’ve ever owned. I’m glad I found this site.

    • Reply January 9, 2013

      Reality Bites

      Agreed, mine have been burned in for upwards of 150 hours. The sound is definitely worth waiting for and quite different from ootb, with much better manners 🙂

      • Reply January 9, 2013

        L.

        I didn’t experience that much of a change really and they have hundreds of hours on them

  • Reply January 9, 2013

    Nohsung Kang

    Mike, how’s AE on female vocal compared to W5000?

    • Reply January 9, 2013

      Mike

      Vocals are nice but w5000 is way better

      Sent from my mobile device. Sorry for any mistype.

      • Reply January 9, 2013

        Nohsung Kang

        1 more question, sorry to bother you. Now I own HD650 for classics, RS1i for rock/metal, W5000 for female vocal songs. If I buy 770AE, what music genres will it shine than others? My curiosity is killing me and my wallet. I’m using Burson Soloist and Chord QuteHd DAC.

  • Reply January 10, 2013

    Ni Hao

    Would like to share my views on the 770LE.

    After reading this review, I was very keen about the 770LE. Currently, I own the k550 & HD600. Since Mike “would go for this anniversary DT770 over the AKG’s K550”. I told myself I’ve got to try it. And I did.

    The genre of music I listen to are vocals, classical and pop. The sound of 770LE is more up front, forward mids, smaller soundstage than k550. It’s a good sounding headphones and I’m sure mike and L have many praise for it.

    So I shall share the negative things i noticed.

    After listening to several of my test tracks, I switched to the k550 and realised that the 770LE does not sound as natural as the k550. There’s this spike in the higher frequency that’s very annoying, very noticeable in female vocals. I think someone had a similar experience, in the recent comments. The 770LE sounds vivid, clear and quite neutral (except for the spike). Not bassy at all, but the soundstage is small and unnatural. It actually sounded low-fi compared to the k550.

    Since both the k550 & 770LE are around the range of $200-300. I would strongly recommend those who are interested to try the k550 as well.

    Personally, I would be more happier to have the k550 to “accompany me in the afterlife”

    Cheers 🙂

    • Reply January 10, 2013

      L.

      Can we ask with what amp and Dac that is?

      • Reply January 10, 2013

        Ni Hao

        I was using Ipod > Fiio L2 interconnect > O2. Audio tracks are in Apple Lossless or 320K mp3.

        • Reply January 11, 2013

          L.

          Have you tried it straight out of the ipod or with another amp? 😀

        • Reply January 11, 2013

          L.

          Thanks for the info. Good thing we don’t all love the same type of sound, right? 🙂

          Enjoy the AKG!

        • Reply January 17, 2013

          dalethorn

          Try the ‘Piano’ EQ setting on the ipod. It works with the O2 and fixes the sound good I think.

    • Reply January 10, 2013

      Mike

      Thanks for sharing sharing your thoughts. Is Ni Hao your real name?

      Sent from my mobile device. Sorry for any mistype.

      • Reply January 10, 2013

        Ni Hao

        Nope, but it’s close 😉

  • Reply January 11, 2013

    Isaiah Mackler

    I’m addicted to my DT770 LE. What is an open back that has a similar sound signature but is overall an upgrade? I’m preferring my DT770 to my HD600, but realistically, open back is better for work. But it have to be as close to as comfortable too! I think their comfort is part of the fun of these phones.

    • Reply January 11, 2013

      L.

      Good question!

  • Reply January 11, 2013

    dalethorn

    Got my DT770 32 ohm Special Edition about 5 minutes ago, and fired it up for an instant impression. It’s really good right out of the box. Worst case, the sibilants are no worse than an average hi-fi headphone with full (not rolled off) treble. Excellent! The only other thing I thought was obvious was a slight “cavernous” sound quality, which would be a small emphasis somewhere in the lower mids. That could also be just my impression after listening to the ATH ESW11Ltd which is emphasized toward the upper mids. I think I’ll keep this and sell it for twice the price when supplies run out.

    • Reply January 11, 2013

      L.

      I wouldn’t do that 😉

      • Reply January 12, 2013

        dalethorn

        Just kidding. I don’t think anyone would offer enough to justify giving the LE edition up. The sound is , ummm – neutral isn’t technically correct, but it fits so well in between all the extremes and whatever, it’s probably the thing you’d want to always have around.

        • Reply January 12, 2013

          L.

          True but I mean that I think there will be a “new” normal edition with the same characteristics once these are sold out, like Mike already suggested. Which would mean the AE value wouldn’t increase

    • Reply January 13, 2013

      dalethorn

      I’ve never had a headphone that changed signature so much with different amping. Out of ipod/iphone, a slightly cavernous and too-dark sound, and any reduction in the low end made the upper treble too sharp. The PA2V2 or FiiO E17 amps made this worse. Switch to the Audioengine D1 or Dragonfly and suddenly everything is good. The highs are still a bit zippy, and if I had a valve/tube amp I’d sure like to give that combination a try.

      • Reply January 13, 2013

        dalethorn

        After trying EQ settings for several hours with Foobar2000, I finally settled on -2 db at 3.5k, -4 at 5k, -6 at 7k, -4 at 10k, and -2 at 14k. It’s crude and a parametric treatment would do better, but at least that setting makes the treble sound good on a wide range of music tracks.

        • Reply January 13, 2013

          Mark Ferrosa

          I do the same with my Fiio E10/laptop and poweramp/xperiaMini/E11 amp.

          • Reply January 13, 2013

            dalethorn

            Once I figured out this treble-trim, I settled in for a long listen. I can’t be sure this is the best sound I’ve ever heard in my house, but it has to be close. It’s marvelous.

            • Reply January 13, 2013

              Mark Ferrosa

              These cans are pure fun!

              • Reply January 14, 2013

                Mike

                Good to hear you guys are enjoying it!

      • Reply January 14, 2013

        Reality Bites

        This is probably a bit of a stretch, but if you have an Arcam Alpha 3 laying around, the AE’s sound fantastic paired with it 🙂

        • Reply January 14, 2013

          dalethorn

          Life isn’t fair. I’m not rich enough for all the amps I want, but I am enjoying the D1 and Dragonfly. I see Sennheiser has a uber-cool looking amp now for $1500 or more. Someday….

          • Reply January 14, 2013

            L.

            Yes, this hobby can be depressing 🙂

        • Reply January 14, 2013

          Mike

          Thanks for sharing that!

  • Reply January 11, 2013

    b.l.

    May I just ask how these sound different from the “normal” dt 770 pros?

    • Reply January 12, 2013

      Mike

      Didn’t I cover that on the review? Sorry

      Sent from my mobile device. Sorry for any mistype.

    • Reply January 12, 2013

      Mark Ferrosa

      770 Pro 80 wins on bass (more control) and comfort (velour pads), 770 AE is better on soundstage, mids and is more balanced than other 770s.

      • Reply January 12, 2013

        Mike

        Thanks, Mark

        Sent from my mobile device. Sorry for any mistype.

        • Reply January 12, 2013

          Mark Ferrosa

          You’re welcome Mike.

  • Reply January 16, 2013

    Rogier Schreurs

    Hey Lieven, how does this thing stack up against the DT990? I’m kind of interested in these since they’re about €140-150 in Holland; the same price as an ordinary DT770

    • Reply January 16, 2013

      L.

      It’s been a while since I listened to the DT990/600. The soundstage on the 990 is bigger of course and treble is a lot hotter. I do think the bass on the 990 has more detail and it is “larger”. The mid section on the 770 AE are much thicker and forward. The 770 is a more fun headphone

      • Reply January 19, 2013

        Rogier Schreurs

        Sounds like a good complement to the 990. However both links on the AE are currently dead… and so is something in the left cup of my DT990 it’s at Beyer now 🙁

        • Reply January 19, 2013

          dalethorn

          My experience with the 770LE is it’s very sensitive to amping, so if you pick the right amp, it might work well for you.

    • Reply January 16, 2013

      Reality Bites

      Just buy some, if you don’t like them you will be able to sell them for more than you paid very shortly 😉

  • Reply January 16, 2013

    dalethorn

    I discovered a very good thing yesterday, given that the 32 ohm AE was targeted at mobile use, yes? The ‘Piano’ EQ setting on ipods/iphones reduces the peak in the upper treble while leaving the rest of the treble alone, and it cleans up a lot of the hollow/boomy sound lower down, while leaving the good bass alone. My new ipod touch is now playing the 770AE with better sound and soundstage than my laptop with Foobar2000 and the Audioengine D1 DAC. Been comparing side by side all day.

    Edit: ipod out from LOD to PA2V2.

    • Reply February 10, 2013

      Michael

      Well, I was thinking PA2V2 too for my LEs can you please say some more about their pairing???
      According to Mikes review i think this amp will pair well to the LEs…

      • Reply February 10, 2013

        dalethorn

        Using it now, iPhone to LOD to PA2V2, playing WAV rip of William Orbit’s Optical Illusion (Billy Buttons Mix) – that’s a high-energy music track — my amp was set by the guy in Canada to average gain, however that’s done (it’s not selectable by me). When I started before playing music with the iphone on and ready to go, in a very quiet place, I could turn up the volume on the amp (iphone volume is bypassed in LOD) to 4 o’clock (5 o’clock is max) before I hear even the faintest noise. But that’s quite a bit louder than playback volume – maybe 20 db. The bass in this track is strong, but doesn’t affect the mids at all. Trombone Shorty and Backatown has *very* heavy bass, but the spectrum is clear and clean. So let’s see – a good vocal test: Jennifer Warnes Rock You Gently: Good. Chris Isaak Wicked Game: Perfect. Actually I haven’t found a vocal that doesn’t play well with this combo. I’ve used this amp every day now for about 8 months, and the worst case is with the bassiest tracks on the 770LE, I get tighter control on the computer USB with Dragonfly or Audioengine D1. But I never hear anything I’d put a negative on, like harshness or lack of clarity. Even though I’ve had the 770LE for only about 6 weeks, the 770 has so much detail, if this amp had any issues they would pop out like a sore thumb.

        • Reply February 10, 2013

          Michael

          So you mean that even everything else is quite good the bass is loose? This is something I wouldn’t want…

          • Reply February 10, 2013

            dalethorn

            It’s pretty good with a small USB DAC, but not as tight with just an iPod or iPhone. But, the only strong bass I have heard with the iPhone alone is never very tight anyway. The DT770LE performs strong (but not fat or boomy) bass as good as any headphone whether used with amp or not, so I don’t know of a better choice.

            • Reply February 11, 2013

              Michael

              Thank you for your answers…
              Well in my opinion the LEs need an amp that will give a better control to the bass…
              So If I understand correctly the combination iPod-LOD-PA2V2-770LE does not have the most tight bass. Yes?

              I was wondering if you have the O2 (I have) and how does the two amps compare with the LEs and iPod… in any case I don’t expect the PA to be a better amp than the O2 but from the other hand O2 isn’t as portable. Actually I am using it in house moslty

              • Reply February 11, 2013

                Michael

                Mike or Lieven do you have any comments about the PA2V2 with the LEs??
                If as I read in the review, the PA2V2 has a forward sound with good PRAT I think that these two will pair well… is this right?
                Thnx !!

                • Reply February 12, 2013

                  Mike

                  Unfortunately I lost my PA2V2 long long time ago.

                  • Reply February 12, 2013

                    Michael

                    Sorry to hear…

              • Reply February 11, 2013

                dalethorn

                I had the O2, which is a more complex amp than the PA2V2 (internally, not operationally). So the O2 may be better technically, yet the PA2V2 somehow manages a ‘larger’ image in my experience somehow. Could that be a coloration? Dunno. But while the O2 (by JDS or possibly Epiphany) might be better, I don’t see it doing better bass control. The only significant difference I hear is with a USB DAC/amp like the Dragonfly. If you get the O2, I hope you get the best possible sample, since the design spec calls for just average components.

                • Reply February 11, 2013

                  Michael

                  I already have the O2 (by jds) .. I am searching for something more portable!!

                  • Reply February 11, 2013

                    dalethorn

                    I get it. The PA2V2 is more portable than the O2, but there’s still that volume knob that’s easily bent. The guy who makes the PA2V2 even tells customers how to re-bend it if it arrives in the post crooked from impact. My FiiO E17 is better in portability, but at best I don’t think it sounds any better than the PA2V2, through its analog (‘Aux’) input. I’d like to buy a slimline amp like the E17 that sounds a lot better, but doesn’t cost a fortune. I could see $250 USD maybe, since I paid almost $150 for the E17.

                    • February 11, 2013

                      George Lai

                      Headstage Arrow 4G is USD299. I got that to use as a portable as the PA2V2 was just too cumbersome as a portable.

        • Reply February 11, 2013

          George Lai

          Hi Dale. The gain can be set by turning the two blue screws inside the PA2V2 amp.

          • Reply February 11, 2013

            dalethorn

            Thank you George! Very helpful!

            • Reply February 11, 2013

              George Lai

              You’re most welcome, Dale. You’ve been able to help everybody, including me, and this is the first time I’ve been able to reciprocate.

  • Reply March 10, 2013

    Edison

    how is the pairing with Audinst HUD-MX1?

  • Reply March 28, 2013

    jtr3

    I must be the only one who was a little disappointed with the LE bass impact. From this review I was ready to enjoy the bass and new-and-improved mids. For sure the mids are quite nice, definitely better than my old 770 Pros. But the bass is much lighter in these, and nowhere near the impact of something like the HE-400. That’s too bad.

    • Reply March 28, 2013

      dalethorn

      One problem I see is the earpad material doesn’t seal well to my head until it warms up a while, then the bass gets a little better. Even then it’s not a big impact like planars, which cost more and have their own issues.

      • Reply March 29, 2013

        jtr3

        I realize planers are not the fairest of comparisons, but my 20-year-old DT770s have considerably more impact, even unamped. I immediately noticed the fit being looser and less sealed, too.

        • Reply March 29, 2013

          dalethorn

          Did you try the new velour pads on the DT770LE?

          • Reply March 29, 2013

            jtr3

            No, I read that bass would be reduced. Should I try it? I have a new set of 770 velours that I just put on my old cans last week. Or are there differ velours just for the LE?

            • Reply March 29, 2013

              dalethorn

              If it’s hard to do or risks damaging the edges, then probably not worth doing. As far as I know Beyer sells the same pads for all 770s.

            • Reply March 29, 2013

              Mark Ferrosa

              That’s the price you pay for a detailed and balanced sound on this LE. Keep the old 770 If you like the bass. I’m selling my old Pro 80. I prefer my 770 AE.

              • Reply March 29, 2013

                Mike

                Plus and minuses. Yes the 80ohm has stronger bass impact, the LE more bass body.

              • Reply March 29, 2013

                jtr3

                The more I listen to these, the more I agree with you. It is the price I pay.

            • Reply March 29, 2013

              George Lai

              Hi, it just so happens I had an email from Beyerdynamic. They discourage using velours from 880/990 on the 770, and pleather from 770 onto the 880/990. Here in the humid tropics, pleather can be really warm and sticky and to alleviate that, sometimes I put those surgical mask type ear muff covers on my 770. It’s about USD5 for 50 pairs on Amazon.

            • Reply March 29, 2013

              George Lai

              I forgot. I didn’t get them from Amazon but from scansound.com. My bad.

            • Reply March 29, 2013

              Mike

              Velours usually reduce bass quantity, yes.

          • Reply April 8, 2013

            George Lai

            I finally managed to put the Beyer velour pads on the DT770LE. Suffice to say Barry White sounded like Lionel Richie. I guess Beyer knows what it’s doing.

            • Reply April 8, 2013

              L.

              Some actually might prefer Lionel over Barry though 😉

              • Reply April 8, 2013

                George Lai

                That’s what the DT880 is for, Lieven

            • Reply April 8, 2013

              Mike

              🙂

              Thanks for the update, George.

    • Reply March 29, 2013

      L.

      We all like the bass. What amp are you using with the DT770 AE? Maybe the AE just is not bass heavy enough for you? have you tried the COP yet?

      • Reply March 29, 2013

        jtr3

        I’ve used both the O2 and the Meridian Explorer. I haven’t tried the COP, perhaps I should.

        I get used to the LE sound after listening for a while and enjoy it. Then I put on the old 600-ohm Pros and feel the bass impact I was missing, but loose a noticeable amount of mids in male/female vocals and acoustic guitar. The reason I haven’t tried the COP is I’m not sure if it would be a duplicate of one of the 770s I already have.

        • Reply March 29, 2013

          Mike

          Maybe you should check out the HD650 article. That headphone is synonymous with bass impact.

          • Reply March 29, 2013

            jtr3

            I remember reading that article and really enjoying it. I’ll try to audition the 650 at next months Head-Fi meet so I know for sure. I’m also curious about the T70, mostly because I’m a fan of Beyerdynamic comfort, but I don’t know how it will stack up in the low end.

            • Reply March 29, 2013

              Mike

              The T70 is tuned very clearly for monitoring. Sharp transients, almost no warmth, thin mids, very clean bass. I really don’t recommend it for music.

              • Reply March 30, 2013

                dalethorn

                T90?

                • Reply March 30, 2013

                  Mike

                  I haven’t heard the T90, Lieven should be getting one.

                  • Reply March 30, 2013

                    L.

                    It arrived today. Forget about it if he needs bass

                    • March 30, 2013

                      Mike

                      Thanks, L

                    • April 18, 2013

                      L.

                      Bass is good and very detailed but doesn’t have the Senn body, by far

        • Reply March 29, 2013

          dalethorn

          When I first read yesterday’s post, I grabbed the DT770LE and fired up a few FLACs with the Microstreamer DAC. I thought “yes, there isn’t a lot of bass impact”. But the bass can have way different impact depending on circumstances. When it’s quiet late at night or very early morning, and I put the LE on and give it a minute to settle, then listen without any distractions, the bass impact is very good. A stronger bass headphone in that same circumstance would not sound good. So keep the stronger one for other circumstances.

        • Reply March 29, 2013

          Burju

          Please do check if your Meridian Explorer is the original version(around 47 ohm on headphone out impedance) or the newer version (around 5 ohm) with lower impedance on its headphone out. If you using it solely thru headphone out, original Explorer sounds better with higher impedance headphone >300 ohm, lower impedance will sound like a big lost in bass impact. My HE400 lost its bass impact using explorer’s headphone out.
          Cheers

          • Reply March 29, 2013

            jtr3

            I have the original for now. While decreased damping factor will have some impact on bass with these 32-ohm cans on the ME, it doesn’t account for the same difference I observed when using the O2.

  • Reply April 12, 2013

    Guest

    Has anyone tried the Pico Slim with the LE? How’s the pairing?

    • Reply April 12, 2013

      dalethorn

      If you run that amp off of a good DAC it will sound spectacular with great bass definition. I don’t have the Pico Slim, but 2 headphone amps I run from the iphone LOD don’t have quite as good of bass detail with the DT770LE.

  • Reply April 16, 2013

    Rogier Schreurs

    Hey Lieven, wat vind jij een goede prijs voor een nieuwe dt770 32Ω LE?

    • Reply April 16, 2013

      L.

      Hi. I’ll reply in English as we’d like everyone to understand. When the AE came out it was available in the Netherlands for 143€, prices in the US were a bit more expensive. I don’t think you can still get the AE from Beyer directly so that means it’s “sold out”. luckily for you 4 launch is still selling it for 143€. Get it before it’s gone… https://www.4launch.nl/shop/#p-4-productid-129333

      • Reply April 17, 2013

        Rogier Schreurs

        Yeah, I thought i sent you a personal message haha. Alright thanks! This review keeps haunting me, maybe buying it will silence my demons 😉

        • Reply September 6, 2014

          Rogier Schreurs

          I’m gonna get one, I’m gonna get one, I’m gonna have it and love it and call it squishy and it shall be my squishy… Well, I am pretty stoked to finally find out what the buzz is all about!

          • Reply September 6, 2014

            L.

            Keep us posted!

            • Reply September 13, 2014

              Rogier Schreurs

              Well, for one thing the clamping force is absolutely killing! I mean just wow! it’s my least comfortable headphone by a mile. I haven’t listened to it that much cause my brother got an L2 the day before I got this, but I do love the sound this thing creates. That is, just as long bass levels on the track are kept within certain limits, cause the bass is a bit hard. Concerning that note It think there might be something wrong with my DT990, cause it appears to be the least bass heavy headphone (next to the L2, DT770 AE, AKG K181DJ and HD580.) Though it sounds absolutely fabulous… I’m confused, haha. AE really shines with a lot of Lounge/chillout/ambient/space music by the way!

              • Reply September 14, 2014

                Headfonia_L.

                My DT990 had way more bass. thanks for the message, I do hope you get over the clamping issue, I don’t have that problem

                • Reply September 14, 2014

                  Rogier Schreurs

                  Blimey Lieven, this thing really is a piece of joyous music equipment! And still it’s got a good bit of technicalities. The amount of bass makes it at picky headphone from time to time, sometimes I prefer it with my X-can V8P and sometimes the headphone amp in my Microstreamer and some songs just won’t work with it, but the ones that do… yih boy! 😀

      • Reply April 17, 2013

        dalethorn

        That’s a great price for a really good headphone.

        • Reply April 17, 2013

          Carl

          Dale, is there anything else around the 770 LE’s price that you would take over the 770? Just curious.

          • Reply April 17, 2013

            dalethorn

            As a closed headphone around $250 USD? Hard to say – the M100 from v-moda is $60 higher and too muddy without some bass reduction. The $200 Soundmagic HP100 is really good, but a little on the lean-sounding side for my taste. The Senn Amperior and Momentum have good sounds but cost $100 more, and I think the LE is at least as good. The Philips L1 is a possibility, but still has a pumped-up upper bass. The Shure 940 could work if you don’t mind stuffing some extra foams into the earcups to cut down the brightness. But right out of the box, I think the LE wins, and I hope they release a standard version. At less than $200, it would be killer.

            • Reply April 17, 2013

              Carl

              Thanks for those thoughtst! That’s a great one-paragraph summation of the headphone landscape in-and-around the LE’s terrain, really succinct and insightful.

              I was kinda just curious, as I have been thinking a little about the 770 LE & Philips L1 as possible 2nd ‘phones to my D600.

              Also, I’ve noticed that your opinion of various ‘phones performance hinges on changing their EQ using either desktop or i-device settings, which I never seem to see other reviewers do. This interests me for various reasons …
              I seem to recall that recently you stated in a comment that the LE was listenable to you only if you moderated its treble peak somehow? Does this also indirectly indicate that for you its ‘as is’ sound doesn’t by itself quite cut it?
              Anyway, thanks for your thoughts – I always find them interesting and both entertaining/informative and think you presence makes Headfonia an even better place to come visit(and I already think it’s pretty near perfect!)
              Be well.

              • Reply April 17, 2013

                dalethorn

                You could certainly play the LE flat – whatever peak you might hear would vary from person to person because there’s a lot of human variation in that area especially (around 8-10 khz), and everything else makes a difference too. With some amps I could just forget about EQ, but others sharpen it up where it becomes more noticeable. A valve(vacuum tube) amp would be ideal, and a mini-dac like the Dragonfly is the opposite of that. I spent several hours with the LE today, and it continues to amaze me with its detail – bass detail as well as treble. To me it’s a lot closer to ideal than the Philips, because the Philips’ bass emphasis takes over the presentation to a large extent, and there’s nothing like that going on with the LE. Still, there are a lot of people who favor the big bass, so it’s hard to guess. Like I told Val Kolton a few times, even 2 days ago – if I were working a headphone and amp shop in Southern California, I could sell DT770’s and Philips L1’s hand over fist (in Val’s case the lineup was slightly different). The thing is to get a synergy going, and I had it working today with the 770LE. So maybe the next thing is to think about the amp.

            • Reply April 17, 2013

              L.

              The X1 is only 190€ here, that’s also an amazing headphone under the 200€ level

              • Reply April 17, 2013

                George Lai

                Hi Lieven, for us in the Anglophile world, how does one order from this Italian website? Their prices are very tempting.

                • Reply April 18, 2013

                  L.

                  That’s Dutch, a shop in The Netherlands. They only deliver to European countries I think

                  • Reply April 18, 2013

                    George Lai

                    Ha Ha, miscommunication I believe. Amazon Italy is in the Netherlands and is in Dutch? Double Dutch. It’s okay, Lieven. Cheers

                    • April 18, 2013

                      dalethorn

                      I spent several more hours today with the 770LE and verza DAC playing WAV tracks from my 7-gen iPod Touch – just amazing. The LE’s won’t last forever, so grab one when you have the chance.

                    • April 18, 2013

                      L.

                      But I never spoke of Amazon.IT in the comments, only of the 4launch.nl shop. Don’t get it

                    • April 18, 2013

                      George Lai

                      My bad. Different thread. Sorry.

  • Reply May 7, 2013

    Richard Liu

    Hey Lieven, you said that you “would go for this anniversary DT770 over the AKG’s K550.” They’re both on my list for consideration, and I was wondering why you would pick the ‘boomier’ DT770 over the K550.

    • Reply May 7, 2013

      L.

      I think that has been covered multiple times already on here. The simple answer is because the AE is more fun and has more bass

  • Reply May 8, 2013

    Kelvin King

    • Reply May 8, 2013

      dalethorn

      First we need to get some of the new ones tested to be sure they sound the same. Then I need to advertise my genuine LE for $750 so I can buy a new 770-32 plus the new A20 amp.

      • Reply May 8, 2013

        L.

        They are exactly the same. We’ve known about this for quite a while now and it is due to the enormous popularity of the retired AE.

        • Reply May 10, 2013

          k1ngp1ng

          Any leaks on retail price?

          • Reply May 10, 2013

            L.

            Havent seen it yet

      • Reply May 8, 2013

        George Lai

        Dang. I shoulda bought more than one.

        • Reply May 27, 2013

          L.

          Not really as they are releasing the normal 32ohm version now as well

          • Reply May 27, 2013

            George Lai

            Think I will get the COP then.

            • Reply May 27, 2013

              L.

              Listening to it right now. love the Bass sliders!

              • Reply May 27, 2013

                George Lai

                Though I’d feel a bit extravagant having both the 770LE and a COP.

                • Reply May 27, 2013

                  L.

                  I agree, overall the DT770AE is the better headphone, but the COP be be really fun with bass heavy music.

      • Reply May 27, 2013

        John123John

        http://www.amazon.com/electronics/dp/B0006NL5SM
        So this is the LE version but with a unlimited (regular) name?
        but the other ohm versions of the dt770 are the same as before?

        oh what the heck, still says LE? Im so confused.. How will buyers of the used market know if theyre buying the old version or the new version?

        • Reply May 27, 2013

          Dave Ulrich

          Well, it is the only 770 that is 32 ohms. Plus, the LE says limited edition on the side. So, when the non-LE 32 ohms 770 comes out, it should NOT say limited edition on the side.

          • Reply May 27, 2013

            L.

            That’s correct

    • Reply May 8, 2013

      L.

      I posted that on FB already 😉

  • Reply June 7, 2013

    Garry

    So according to comments here, DT770 LE + velour pads is a no-go.
    I am looking to get a Beyer mostly because of their comfy velour pads.
    Anyone have experience with the COP + velour pads?

  • Reply July 17, 2013

    Gonza

    Hey can you review/compare the new dt770 pro 32 ohms to the AE? thankss

    • Reply July 17, 2013

      L.

      same thing, different badge?

    • Reply July 17, 2013

      dalethorn

      If the new 32 ohm has the plastic pads like the Limited Edition, it should sound exactly the same.

  • Reply August 27, 2013

    George Lai

    For those with big ears and find the standard pleather earpads too small, and don’t wish to use Beyer velour earpads, use the Brainwavz HM5 pleather earpads. USD17 from MP4Nation.net with free shipping. Now I don’t have to get rid of my DT770 AE.

    • Reply August 27, 2013

      Mike

      Thank you for sharing George.

  • Reply September 14, 2013

    Stefan Jakovljevic

    Hey, I have a question. I was looking through some ads and I have found DT 770 32 Ohm headphones. The price is OK, around 100 euros, but unfortunately it does not say if they are Limited Edition or not. Is there a regular edition with 32 Ohm impedance? And if there is, how does it compare to the Anniversary Edition?

    • Reply September 14, 2013

      L.

      The Ae was a limited edition. But is was so successful (our fault) that they decided to make a normal 32 ohm DT770. It is exactly the same, it just doesn’t have the AE logo.

      • Reply September 14, 2013

        Stefan Jakovljevic

        Hey Lieven, I have another question if I may ask. I saw you post 4launch.nl site on some comment underneath as a place with low-priced headphones. Are there any other sites (Dutch or European) where I can find secondhand or low-priced audio equipment, headphones mostly? I know there is markplaats and ebay, any other.

        Regards, Stefan

        • Reply September 14, 2013

          L.

          amazon.de
          amazon.fr
          amazon.es
          amazon.it
          amazon.co.uk
          thomann
          soundconsult
          audiogarden
          headsound
          Google 😉

    • Reply September 14, 2013

      Stefan Jakovljevic

      Yes, I have found that information. But as the ad is for used headphones, are there any older 32 Ohm 770s than the Limited Edition?

  • Reply October 24, 2013

    Daniel

    I own a pair of Audio Technica ESW9A’s and Denon D750s. I find that the ESW9A’s sound OK played through an iPod and sound much better through a higher voltage source such as a laptop with better DAC. Anyway I find that they don’t seal well and aren’t as clear as I would hope. SO I ended up buying a pair of T70Ps… Unfortunately they sounded so flat, had no bass whatsoever, and were way too bright with loads of sibilance… The D750s I loved but unfortunately they sounded so muddy and dark without an amp, I listen to my headphones on the go and don’t want to have an AMP/DAC combo with me. So anyway, I was wondering how these DT770 32 Ohm Pro’s compare to the DT880s which are semi-open? I loved the sound of the DT880s although the bass was a little recessed. The T70Ps were the worst headphones from Beyer I ever heard. Also how do these 32 ohm 770Pros sound compared to some of Audio Technica’s offerings such as my ESW9, or even the ESW10, ES700, or ES10, (these are the other ones I am debating between). I would also love to know how they compare to Ultrasone Signatures or Editions. Thanks so much!!!

    • Reply October 24, 2013

      dalethorn

      I only know the ESW9a and DT-770LE (limited edition, which is now the new standard 32 ohm model). The ESW9a highs are soft, i.e. rolled off, while the DT-770-32 has full highs (not bright though), except there’s a slight treble peak around 8-9 khz that may be a problem for some people, and it was for me so I EQ’d it. Moving to the mids, I find the ESW9a nearly perfect – I don’t find anything wrong in fact. The DT-770-32 has a huge sounding midrange that I find has a somewhat hollow sound to it, although I don’t recall anyone else mentioning it. The bass is different between these two headphones, but rather than try to analyze the exact differences, I’ll just say the difference to me was unimportant compared to the very important differences in the mids and highs. The DT-770-32 is essentially non-portable in my view, while the ESW9a is very portable. The DT-770-32 is very comfortable, going fully around my ears, while the ESW9a has those weird little pads that are beveled so just the narrow top of the bevel goes against my ears. I got used to it, but it’s not as good as the flatter pads they use on the ESW11-LTD.

      • Reply October 24, 2013

        dalethorn

        BTW, portable to me means as I go places without a backpack or other large bag to stash headphones into, then when I’m not listening I pull the earcups down and wear the headphone around my neck with cord tucked into pocket. The ESW9a works great that way.

  • Reply December 10, 2013

    Punit Shetty

    Bought one because of this review, Lovin it. My Portable closed HP collection is now complete. Have the Beyer DT 1350, Senn HD 25 Alu Anniv Ed & this.

    • Reply December 10, 2013

      L.

      It’s my night stand headphone for the moment

    • Reply December 10, 2013

      Mike

      Glad to hear that!

    • Reply December 10, 2013

      dalethorn

      There’s always the new T51p. I love it!

  • Reply December 24, 2013

    tand

    Hi guys,

    Got my hands on a DT 770 manufaktur 32 ohm.

    i was expecting a bass headphones. But it really isnt. Quite tame bass. But the trable to my ears is quite shocking. Drove me almost crazy when I was a bit hungover yesterday morning.

    So could you tell me whats the soundsignature of this can? Is it a bass monster and is my headphone broken? Or is it what I have?

    Anyway the main difference with the headphone on review is that mine has velours pads and has different cups. Would changing the pads to pleather change the sound?

    Thanks alot. Hope you can help me out.

    • Reply December 24, 2013

      L.

      This is a DT770 AE review, you have a completely different model. Of the DT770 PRO series the 80Ohm has the most bass. The Manufactur (are you sure?) is a consumer version and can indeed sound like you say. Beyer treble is very extended and important. In the AE everything is more linear.

      Also, the pads change mote than you think. But in conclusion, you have another version.

      • Reply December 30, 2013

        tand

        Hi L,

        So when people mention bas heavy headphones its the 770 pro version?
        Whats so different? Is the 80 ohm version also bass heavy?

        Yeah
        got the receipt rom beyerdynamic and everything.All custom. Looks real
        nice black on black. New 260€. Is the premium version with the wings.

        • Reply December 30, 2013

          L.

          The Pro 80ohm is the bass heaviest of the 770 series
          I can fully recommend the Beyer COP with the adjustable bass ports

  • Reply January 22, 2014

    MD2020

    What a wealth of information this site has, and the layout is so clean and useful! Thanks for doing this. Anyway, what are the current amp recommendations for the DT 770 32 ohm in the sub $300 range? Looking around it looks like the Torpedo, Dragonfly, and Audioengine D3 work. Any other suggestions? What about the Schiit Vali?

    • Reply January 22, 2014

      Dave Ulrich

      The problem with the Vali is the image has no depth to it. The DT 770 32 does. If it wasn’t for that, I actually think that would be a good pairing. I like the Torpedo myself.

      • Reply January 22, 2014

        MD2020

        Thanks Dave! I may have to wait a while since the Torpedo is at the upper limit of my budget. Do you think the JDS Labs cmoy would be a cheaper alternative for now? My goal is to tighten up the bass.

        • Reply January 22, 2014

          Dave Ulrich

          What is your source?

          • Reply January 22, 2014

            MD2020

            MacBook Pro. No DAC (yet). I figured I’d get the headphones and amp nailed down first.

            • Reply January 22, 2014

              L.

              you won’t tighten up the bass with a Cmoy with BB 😉

              • Reply January 23, 2014

                MD2020

                Ouch, my wallet was afraid of that 🙂 I guess I’ll be saving up for the Torpedo then. Thanks Lieven and Dave.

                • Reply January 23, 2014

                  Dave Ulrich

                  I can also recommend the dacport lx as a source.

                  • Reply January 23, 2014

                    MD2020

                    Thanks Dave, I’ll have to put that one one the list.

    • Reply September 13, 2014

      Rogier Schreurs

      HRT Microstreamer is a bit overpowered for my taste. Though I DO appear to listen at lower volume levels than most people I know. I’d take a look at the ifi products as well if I were you

  • Reply March 12, 2014

    Sean Higgins

    For what it’s worth, I have my DT770 AEs plugged into an iFi iDSD and they sound as good as they ever have. I set Foobar2000 to convert pcm to dsd on the fly and the sound is smooth, tight, and feels just right. Your mileage may vary, but I thought I’d share this pairing in case anyone else is on the lookout.

    • Reply March 12, 2014

      Dave Ulrich

      Thanks!

    • Reply September 13, 2014

      Rogier Schreurs

      I am! Tried the Nano iDSD two days ago, right after I got my AE. I will try out the Full iDSD and maybe even get it, though I prefered the iDSD with my DT990 and my AE with my HRT Microstreamer.

  • Reply April 9, 2014

    Deskolim Cheong

    How if AE compare to L2(many reviewers get AE over than L1)? Seems like L2 is also got many fans.

    • Reply April 9, 2014

      L.

      Well the old AE, now the 32Ohm version, is a closed headphone. The L2 is an open headphone. L2 and AE are very good, and very different. The L2 driver is the better one, but the Beyer just has a special sound.

      • Reply April 9, 2014

        Deskolim Cheong

        It’s that the same AE version(not limited for only 4000?) with the new 32ohm version? or still AE better? Considered to buy, because i found they still have AE version stock.

        • Reply April 9, 2014

          Dave Ulrich

          It should be the exact same headphone.

        • Reply April 9, 2014

          L.

          The AE is the same as the 32 version, just more expensive as it is a limited version

  • Reply May 2, 2014

    tand

    HI lievens,

    Which pleather cushiosn do you have? Is it the perforated pleather cushions. Or is it totally closed. I am referring to the backside of the cushions.
    Have you ever tried it with a velours?

    • Reply May 2, 2014

      L.

      My AE now has the Velour pads. The original pleather pads had the holes in them. I like the better over all with the velours. For bass I just use my COPs

  • Reply May 25, 2014

    Joe

    I have seen some comments and measurements which says AE and new 32 ohm version are actually different sounding headphones. (en.goldenears.net) Looks like new 32 ohm version has more treble and less bass than AE. What do you guys think?

    • Reply May 26, 2014

      dalethorn

      I wish I had both, but even then, I can’t imagine why they would sound different outside of earpad differences. wasn’t the AE equipped with different pads than the DT770 Pro versions? And maybe that’s the difference?

      • Reply May 26, 2014

        Joe

        Maybe Beyer tuned AE differently from their regular dt770 models. The review praises AE that they are better than regular dt770. Those good qualities mentioned might not be there with new 32 ohm version. Some commented that AE and new 32 ohm version are same below, I am just saying that might not be true.

        • Reply May 26, 2014

          dalethorn

          I mentioned it because (I think) the AE used different earpads from the regular models, so see if that’s a factor.

        • Reply May 26, 2014

          L.

          Beyer confirmed they were exactly the same apart from the looks

    • Reply May 26, 2014

      L.

      I call BS 🙂

  • Reply July 4, 2014

    Pedro Oliveira

    Mike and lieven really sorry for bothering….
    My last headphones have been the white box ath m50, sennheiser hd 25, momentum over ear, mdr 1r and sony mdr v6. By using this headphones i reached a concluaion i hate too coloured and warm sound, the mdr 1rs to my ears sounded muffled and lacked bass impact. I love and still have the hd25 but they sound too confined, i liked the bass of the ath m50s but did not like the recessed mids and plasticky and unatural treble and i loved the momentums sound, a bit boring for edm but i loved it, did not loved the confort of the momentums though and sold them…. I listen mostly to pop, rock and edm and i beliece my 2 favourite headphones so far are indeed the over ear momentums and the hd25s….
    Having described my preferences do you guys think this beyer would suit me? (I can get a used le for 100 euros in mint condition) would the 80 ohm version be better for me? I also hated the k550 by the way, weird fit, lacking bass and to much treble (to me ot sounded steryle)….

    Right now i only have the hd25 and the v6….

    On paper this dt770 looks cool but i am affraid the bass will not sufice me as i my 2 favourite headphones so far have a very generous amount of bass…. I am also a bit afraid of the famous beyers treble reputation…. If they sound like the hd25 thats ok, but if thwy sound like the k550 no way i am getting them…

    Hope you guys can help me understand how the dt770le sounds because to be honest i never tried any beyer in my life….

    • Reply July 5, 2014

      dalethorn

      In a word, no. You should get something that has a wider soundstage and good bass impact (but not muddy) and not soft on both ends like the Momentum. The Philips L2 might be a possibility. The Sennheiser HD25 Aluminum might be good. The Shure SRH840 is way, way better than the M50, and very little coloration. Very little. I really liked the MrSpeakers Mad Dog – bass, treble, mids – all very good. It’s very hard to top what you have until the price goes way up, but the Shure 840 is the most uncolored and hifi headphone I know of at $200 and below, then the Mad Dog at approximately $300. I have had the Philips L1 which is rather bassy, but I’ve heard the L2 is better.

      • Reply July 5, 2014

        Pedro Oliveira

        Thank you very much for yout reply dale…. 🙂
        Love your video reviews by the way…:-D
        The amperior would be had anything that i dont have on my hd25?
        From the headphones i mentioned i had, wich one of them is closer to the dt770 ae in terms of sound signature? Are they really that bass light when compared to the 80ohm version….?

        At 100 euros these guys seemed like a good bet for my taste because i thought i was getting the fun and bassy sound of the 80ohm version but more refined an more adequate sensitivity for portable players… Seems not after all… I really hoped they could be fun like my hd25 but with a muchbbiggersoundstage…. :'(

        • Reply July 5, 2014

          dalethorn

          Hi – None of your headphones are similar to the DT770. The 770 is very good in its own right, but has a warm upper bass to low mids, and does not have the solid low bass like the M50. What you describe that you wish for is very much the same for most of us – a solid bass with good impact and detail/clarity. A liquid and uncolored midrange. A treble with great detail but no peaky areas. The Amperior is better than the HD25, and there is a review here that says the “HD25 Aluminum” is better than the Amperior. But if I were using the Aluminum, I would need to re-tune the bass, to boost the lower bass a little and reduce the upper bass a little. I had just the Amperior, but I understand the tuning, and adjusting the bass as I described would make it much better.

  • Reply July 5, 2014

    Pedro Oliveira

    In wich ways do you think the amperior is better than the hd25 (i know the aluminium are even better but also are more expensive)? The bass is much stronger (i kind of liked the bass response of the on ear momentums…)? For someone who has and loves the hd25 do you think the amperior is worth getting as an improvemente or the changes in sound are too subtle?
    Returning to the dt770 ae…
    So with wich headphones could these dt770s be compared? Do you think they are able to perform at least decently with the genres i listen, or would the 80ohm version suit me better?
    Wich musical genses do you guys think that the dt770ae portrays better?

    Cheers…

    • Reply July 6, 2014

      dalethorn

      Innerfidelity covered the HD25/Amperior differences pretty well. If you can find an Amperior they are very cheap today. I think the Aluminum is still full price. I don’t know anything that sounds like the DT770. It’s like being in a very large room, almost like a cavern, but it’s not the same as the big soundstage of a Sennheiser HD800. The HD800 is neutral to slightly bright, while the DT770 is darker with a warmer low end. But you’re looking to get a more hi-fi sound from where you are, and the DT770 is not that. You might want to go to Edd’s site (NobleHiFi) and read his reviews of the DT770, DT880, DT990 etc., and get a better idea of how they compare.

  • Reply July 9, 2014

    Pedro Oliveira

    Whats weird is that while checking some measurement graphs these appera to be bassier than the amperiors and ath m50s and even bassier than the 80ohm dt770s…… Also i have been trading messaging with some headfiers and the opinions are different , some say they do not have much more bass than the mdr v6, while other claim there are no sonic differences between all dt770 models (at least very noticeable ones) and that they all share the same soung sig. Do you guys think that if i had the velour pads to the dt770 le’s the bass will become even fuller or at least more controled and punchy?

    Cheers…

    • Reply July 9, 2014

      L.

      no, less controlled and punchy with velours

      • Reply July 9, 2014

        Pedro Oliveira

        Thank you very much for your reply L. So how loose os the bass and how much is it in quantity? Are they at least bassier and punchier than the v6 or the sony mdr 1r? Anywhere near the ath m50? I can get this limited edition real cheap but since i cant try them without buying i am still very confused about the bass…. Do you think they have plenty of bas to at least enjoy edm (and some rock stuff like biffy clyro or artic monkeys) decently? How loose is the bass? Mdr 1r loose? Aurvana live loose? Hd500 series loose? 😀

        Sorry once again for all the trouble m8….

        • Reply July 10, 2014

          dalethorn

          When you have time to spend with the DT770, I don’t think you’ll be so focused on how the bass sounds exactly – you’ll be listening and thinking “wow – this is soooooo different from the M50, Sony, Amperior, etc.”

          • Reply July 10, 2014

            Pedro Oliveira

            I am sure i will Dale, but i just want to make sure the bass will suffice my taste and that will be fun enough to preovide me some edm fun every once i a while…. Thats my only doubt…. I am sure they will kick all i have in terms of soundstage and confort thats for sure, but i want them to be fun enough and not steryle like some k550. I want to make sure they are at least more bassy than the 1r and v6. If they are i am clicking the buy button right away…. (Without being to colored as the 1r as well, those sounded tooooo muffled….)

            • Reply July 10, 2014

              dalethorn

              I don’t know how to answer those questions. I think the bass is OK, but it doesn’t stand out like some other headphones. I guess the best advice is whatever the review says, or compare the review to other reviews.

  • Reply August 1, 2014

    Jort Ruhof

    Lieven and Mike, I read a fair amount of reviews from both of you with great interest. I would like to compliment you on all your expert work, it sure feels detached and thorough!

    I’m 46 years but still a hifi-headphone starter with a very broad non-classical music taste (mostly on an IPhone 5). I want to buy my first and hopefully fantastic HiFi-headphone system. From your reviews I understood that the right amp/dac is crucial here. You both wrote very positive about the DT770AE and the HD650.
    Can you help me (and others) with comparing your best possible portable DT770AE-amp/dac combo to your best portable HD650-amp/dac combo to your latest knowledge.
    Where does the one combination excel compared to the other, looking at things like beautiful 3-dimensionality, the wide soundstage, sparkling dynamics, a bass who is really there but not overdone, upfront midds and clear highs but not painful, and where are there similarities in excellence. (I prefer a portable amp/dac system because I lot of times I’m not at home.)

    And o yeah, is there a amp/dac portable which comes in second for less than 500 dollars and still gives you a very big smile on your face that stays there. (If ithere’s not a portable one than a home-version is fine.)

    Many thanks for your expert advice in advance!
    Best regards,
    Jort

    • Reply August 6, 2014

      Jort Ruhof

      Lieven, you must be very busy reviewing al the new stuff after your well deserved holidays. So I can understand you are not able to answer soon, and besides, you already told somewhere; “I would go for the L2 instead of Bayer 770LE, it’s a higher quality sound for sure.” So the old 770LE is history, no more talking about that one, long live the new king L2. Which leaves me with the same questions, but now compairing the L2 with the ideal portable amp (for a bit better bass, the Duet?) vs HD650 with the (to your latest knowledge) ideal portable amp however max 600 euros and all listened to with an iPhone5/MacbookPro.
      Could you find some time after the next to weeks for my questions underneath?
      Where does, through your ears, one of the above headphone/amp combinations excel compared to the other and where do you see similarities in excellence? I know, open vs closed, hard to compare, but still, please do give it a try.
      And what if the amp is maxed to 300 euros which combi would you than make for the HD650 (perhaps the Matrix for portable and the A20 for home?) and the L2?
      And 3 the most important one; at the end of the day, which of these Headphone/Amp/iPhone combinations would you prefer and why?

      • Reply August 6, 2014

        L.

        Hi yeah sorry, very busy here.

        The L2 wins on technicalities over the DT770AE. Personally on fun factor to me, the DT770AE/32 wins. It depends what sound you’re after.

        The Duet is very good, the new picollo too and also the brand new Fiio E11K. In that exact order. All have enough power for the HD650

        Price quality to 300: HD650 or L2 + Crack

        All time: HD650 + OTL amp like 339/WA2/Crack
        Portable: HD650 + Duet or Theorem

        • Reply August 7, 2014

          Nat PML

          Remember when I was complaining about the L2’s brightness the other day (EQ didn’t help)?

          I re-read your DT770AE review, and bought a DT770 32 ohms, and I LOVE it !
          Sounds great, not expensive, and it totally replaced the L2 for me when I need a low impedance headphone.

          I must say that I find the way you describe sound in your reviews very accurate, L. Whether people share your taste or not, your writings are a great base to make one’s choice.

          Thanks for the wonderful discovery !

          • Reply August 7, 2014

            L.

            Thank you Nat. I appreciate it

        • Reply August 8, 2014

          Jort Ruhof

          L, does your answer “All Time” mean that the HD650 is your all time favorite? And does it also mean that in your (dark, 3-dimentionality, very deep) sound preference, when both perfectly amped, the HD650 wins it for you over the DT770AE/32 ? /Alvast super dank voor je oprechte antwoord./

          • Reply August 8, 2014

            L.

            Oh yes, Tee HD650 is one of the old Kings. It’s still in my top 5 of best headphones ever. To me it is a lot better than the DT770AE/32. Graag gedaan!

            • Reply August 8, 2014

              Jort Ruhof

              Are you willing to share your personal top 5 of best headphones ever?

              • Reply August 8, 2014

                L.

                Only 5?

                Sennheiser Orpheus
                Sennheiser HD650
                Audeze LCD2/3 (see how I cheated there?)

                Audeze LCD-XC
                Hifiman HE-500 (and not the 560)

                • Reply August 8, 2014

                  Jort Ruhof

                  Very cool, thanks!

                  Last december you all shared your top 2013 products with us in your review called “Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!” . Your personal views were VERY interesting insights!
                  Valentine was extremely enthusiastic about the Schiit Vali amp. He called it the ultimate amp game changer what’s your personal opinion about it? And how does it pair with 650?

                  And Mike wrote in aug 2012 about the Matrix Mini-Portable: No airy sound, but the bass weight and the full mids) the result is über dark, I love it. Perfect portable for the HD650.
                  I’m curious: The two above together with the Duet, Picollo, Thorem. In what exact order would you place them paired with he 650?

              • Reply August 8, 2014

                dalethorn

                Can anyone share their top 5? (why, yes, of course): AKG K812, Beyer T1, Alpha Dog, Grado PS500, Shure 1840. (hope you don’t mind)

                • Reply August 9, 2014

                  L.

                  Good idea for a new topic!

        • Reply August 11, 2014

          Jort Ruhof

          Thanks for sharing your personal portable amp preference to drive the HD650 on an iPhone5 and MacBook Pro, being Duet/Picollo/E11K. Very nice that you gave here three different price ranges for the best quality and fit.
          Are you also willing to share with me your personal three most up-to-date portable amp preferences to drive the DT770AE/32 best? I understood that this headphone is very sensitive to amping. I’m afraid for a hot treble or a hollow sound for this headphone, and I do like a good firm bass. Many thanks in advance!

          • Reply August 11, 2014

            L.

            Duet
            C5
            Picollo

            • Reply August 12, 2014

              Jort Ruhof

              In that exact order? And the Matrix Mini Portable would it come to you on 4th place? Mike wrote enthusiastically about it’s fit with the DT770AE/32. Thanks.

              • Reply August 12, 2014

                L.

                they are amps, not DACS.
                Matrix mini is very nice indeed. The top 3 I said was just 3 price categories

                there are so many amps, I can’t suggest them all

              • Reply August 12, 2014

                L.

                No. just 3 suggestions for each price category. you can rank them yourself according to their price

  • Reply August 9, 2014

    Michael Dowling

    Hey Lieven and Mike! Huge thanks for all your insightful words. I was wondering if you ever put pleathers on an 80 ohm 770? I put some on mine and the sound is much darker, the treble easier and the bass a bit punchier. Much closer to how you describe the 32 ohm. I wonder if the pads are the thing…? Thanks again for all the great work you do in articulating our hobby.

    • Reply August 9, 2014

      L.

      Hi Michael,

      The 80ohm version is known for having the most bass (besides the M version perhaps). With the pleathers you would indeed get even more pronounced bass. The 32/AE version shouldn’t come that close in the bass section. And thanks!

      • Reply August 9, 2014

        Michael Dowling

        They’re certainly a lot less fatiguing on the treble end. I really like the difference. I think I’ll have to try the 32 ohm one day!

  • Reply August 13, 2014

    Nat PML

    L, we love this headphone. Everyone wantsto use it, so we consider buying another one. It’s a shame, as I’d rather discover new headphones.

    Is there a higher end DT770, a big brother whose sound is similar, just better in Beyerdynamic’s catalog ? (reading your T90, I wondered if it could be the one)

    • Reply August 13, 2014

      L.

      No there isnt. T90 is audiophile detail level and spicy treble. THe DT880 doesn’t match either. The DT770 sound is so typical it’s not in the other models.

      • Reply August 13, 2014

        Nat PML

        Thank you for the great answer.

        I will probably wait my personal taste evolve before trying one of those then, some ears education is needed.

        • Reply August 13, 2014

          dalethorn

          I like the AKG K712 a lot, although it sounds different from the DT770. The discounts are good now.

  • Reply August 15, 2014

    sasa208

    This looks like a wonderful headphone, thank you for the great review!
    However, I have some difficulty in finding them. I have just tried the NAD viso HP50
    and I liked them very much. Within my price range of 200 euro’s at the moment. I also tried the B&W P7, and they sounded even a bit better in the mids and highs to me, more neutral maybe. But to expensive.
    Comparing the NAD especially and the P7 to this headphone, which one would you take, what is the difference?
    Thank you again!

    • Reply August 16, 2014

      dalethorn

      I think you would find the DT770 better long-term than the P7, especially in the bass. The HP50 would be better as a lifestyle sound (like the Momentum) and the DT770 better for detail.

      • Reply August 16, 2014

        sasa208

        Thank you Dale. Do you mean the DT770 AE specifically or also the regular DT770 Pro’s? The regular Pro’s can be had for just 120 euro’s now, less then the HP50’s. The DT770 Pro AE is hard to find and more expensive as the HP50’s.
        The HP50 would be the safe choice for me, as I have already tried them and I like them a lot. The DT770 Pro AE edition intrigue me however 🙂

        • Reply August 17, 2014

          dalethorn

          I haven’t heard any DT770 except the 32 ohm anniversary edition. The impedance won’t make much difference if you have a capable amp, but the earpads will make a difference. Velour versus pleather makes a big difference. But if you like the HP50, which I think of as a very normal headphone, you might not like the DT770, since it’s very different.

          • Reply August 17, 2014

            sasa208

            Thank you all very much for the info! 🙂

            • Reply August 18, 2014

              Marc

              You’re welcome guys!

        • Reply August 17, 2014

          Marc

          I have the DT770 AE and had the 770 Pro 80. The AE is clearer an detailed. The 770 Pro 80 has tighter bass, but its sound is more v shaped and grainy. Go for AE.

          • Reply August 17, 2014

            L.

            Thanks Marc

  • Reply December 15, 2014

    John B

    I can’t find the DT770 AE anymore online, but found the DT 770 32 ohm (non-AE) instead. How do these compare to the DT-770 AE ? are the differences just about design and packaging ? Do they sound different ?

    http://www.amazon.com/Beyerdynamic-DT-770-PRO-32-Headphone-Monitoring-Applications/dp/B008POFOHM/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1418658782&sr=8-2&keywords=dt+770

    Thanks a lot !

    • Reply December 15, 2014

      Headfonia_L.

      I must have answered this question a hundred times 🙂
      Yes, the 32 ohm version sounds identical to the AE version. Beyerdynamic confirmed it as well. They made the 32 ohm version because the AE was a huge hit.

      You will enjoy it for sure, it still is my nightstand headphone

  • Reply January 6, 2015

    Ilja Dudinov

    Hi Lieven,

    Have you had any experience with DT 990 Pro 250Ohm or DT 990 Edition 32Ohm? I’m looking to get Beyer A20 amp and connected it to my E10K. I’m a clear mid- and treble junkie, but also like a good bass. In these terms how would closed 770AE fare against 990Pro/Edition? I know they’d have different signature, but my preference is European electronic music (70’s like Space, Jean Michel-Jarre, etc.), good rock oldies FLAC’s and other vinyl rips

    Any input you can share?

    • Reply January 6, 2015

      Headfonia_L.

      I have the DT770AE, I sold my DT990/600. The 990’s are more v shaped than the DT990, I think you would like the DT770 more with the A20, as you say you like mids

      • Reply January 6, 2015

        Ilja Dudinov

        Yeah. All I can check on demo stands around here is Shure and Sennheisers, Beyers purchase first only 🙂 I’m this guy with old HD215’s that once to buy ultimate music listening cans for under 250EUR

        So DT770 Pro 32Ohm are the same tech as AE, correct? Comments below pretty much state that, but there’s no PRO part in them comments below. If yes, then I probably order them.

        Thank you!

        • Reply January 6, 2015

          Headfonia_L.

          Did you look at the picture? 😉
          Yes the PRO 32 is the same as the AE version, except for the logo and box. It’s selling for 145€ right now

          • Reply January 6, 2015

            Ilja Dudinov

            No, I didn’t come here to look at the pictures. I came here to annoy you and I’m succeeding 😉

            Thank you for recommendation! Ordered them.

            P.S. if I won’t like them, I’ll find you where you live and make you listen to Rick Astley for 6 hours straight! I promise!

            • Reply January 6, 2015

              Headfonia_L.

              I like Rick, he’s back from my teen years. Even went to one of his gigs a few years ago 😀

              • Reply January 6, 2015

                Ilja Dudinov

                Another question. I see you’re crazy about HD650’s. So for critical listening where every frequency matters you still prefer closed phones? Just curious

                • Reply January 6, 2015

                  Headfonia_L.

                  it’s a mix of both closed and open, dynamic and ortho. For critical listening most important is that you know your headphone 100%

                  • Reply January 10, 2015

                    Ilja Dudinov

                    Got my DT770 Pro 32. Comparing to my Senn HD215 it’s definitely night and day. Althought they don’t look like much 🙂

                    So much more mid-trebles if I could call them this. And bass…oh man. Smoooooth like butter. And it’s semi-mid-fi. Just wow, man! Thank you for this review. Made my day. Again 🙂

                    • January 10, 2015

                      Headfonia_L.

                      Glad you like it, it’s a great headhone

  • Reply October 6, 2015

    Ant

    Hi, sorry if you answered this question already. How do these compare to the dt770 600 ohm version? Thanks for your help!

    • Reply October 6, 2015

      Headfonia_L.

      I don’t think I ever listened to the 600 ohm version of the DT770, sorry

      • Reply October 6, 2015

        Ant

        Ok, thanks for your time.

    • Reply October 6, 2015

      dalethorn

      If the earpads change, that makes a big difference. Beyer uses pleather, velour, fabric, etc.

  • Reply October 7, 2015

    Ant

    Have you listened to both versions?

    • Reply October 7, 2015

      dalethorn

      Lieven has not. I have not. Probably Nathan has not. One guy you could try is Edd at Noble Hi-Fi (google it). He has quite a bit of info there, and even though his site may be out of date generally, it should be good for the 770/880/990 series.

      • Reply October 7, 2015

        Ant

        Thank you Dale! Ill check it out

        • Reply October 8, 2015

          dalethorn

          I went to Noble – they didn’t review the 770, but they mentioned it in the 880 review. I went to the Beyer site and they show the 80 to 250 ohm models with velour earpads, and the 32 ohm with pleather pads. I prefer pleather because it doesn’t accumulate sweat and change the sound after a time. Amazon has a sale on the 770-32 for about $135.

          Edit: If you check the review comments, I think you’ll find that the 770-32 is the most popular headphone ever at Headfonia.

          • Reply October 8, 2015

            Ant

            I actually had them at one point. I really liked them. Ive been looking for a good set of closed cans that’ll match up with my woo wa3. I found a set of 600 ohm i was thinking of buying. Have you heard the DT1770 yet?

            • Reply October 8, 2015

              dalethorn

              No, but if I do hear anything good I might order it. The DT770-32 has a lot of detail for a non-Tesla headphone, and I think the 1770 is Tesla, so it has a lot of potential.

            • Reply October 8, 2015

              Headfonia_L.

              The DT1770 nis a mix of the T1 and the DT770. also look at the LCD XC

              • Reply October 8, 2015

                Ant

                I’m definitely leaning towards the dt1770. Just waiting on the HFN review 🙂

            • Reply October 8, 2015

              Headfonia_L.

              Why do you want 600Ohm?

              • Reply October 8, 2015

                Ant

                My desktop amp is a woo audio wa3. I figured the high impedance would work better since it is an OTL.

  • Reply July 12, 2016

    Taisser

    Have you tried the dt770 pro 32 since this?

    • Reply July 12, 2016

      Lieven

      Yes. I even have another one coming in next week

  • Reply October 30, 2017

    Mateo

    Would a good pair with the Cayin n3 in high gain, without the need of an amplifier? The boomy bass could be controlled?

  • Reply February 13, 2018

    Fabio

    I ordered the dt770 32 ohm, 6 years of waiting were too much. LOL
    The headphones I like the most: Sennheiser hd600, Sennheiser hd25, Shure se215.
    Usually, I like mid-forward headphones and I hope the dt770 32 does not sound too V-shape, just slightly.
    I’ll get them tomorrow, we’ll see 🙂

  • Reply October 1, 2018

    Musikverein

    By the way, I just replaced my old and dying 32ohm Version with a new(studio oriented) 250 Ohm Version since it has reached a sensational nice <120€ Level.
    I am running it wit a Dragonfly Red in my second office.
    This retro/eternal comfort and the sound is still a m a z i n g. And they obviously tuned it over the years which made them even better.
    Plus, I listened to an Aeon Closed recently for comparison and while I might say there is a significant difference in terms of technicalities and a smooth and balanced soundscape –
    the gap is not that wide.

    • Reply October 1, 2018

      Lieven

      That’s a really good price indeed. Still a great headphone

      • Reply October 1, 2018

        Musikverein

        Yep. I would go as far as to say the best closed can at this pricepoint.
        I am actually surprised that the 250Ohm one is that fine. Less grainy on top and with a deeper, yet less hollow, more realistic soundstage.

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