What is it?
The BeyerDynamic DT880 is a semi-open studio headphone which combines all strengths of open, transparent headphones with those of more powerful, closed headphones. Specially designed housings and an improved system equalisation make it an ideal studio monitoring headphone, with analytical qualities. Soft earpads and adjustable, sliding, earpieces together with a single-sided connecting cable ensure listening comfort during extended periods of use.
Who is the DT 880 for?
I’ve been producing music in my home studio for over a decade now, and I’ve always wished I could carry my studio around, and make music while I’m travelling and getting inspired by new places. It always seemed like a compromise given that a studio environment offers plug-ins, hardware and, most importantly, sound treatment and monitors. I tried a bunch of headphones, but when I would listen to my mixes back in the studio, the sound just wasn’t precise enough. That was till I was introduced to the DT 880.
Style
With an extremely solid protective case and weighing as little as 295 grams, the DT 880 headphones can pretty much go anywhere. I’ve been travelling ever since I got them, and have been making music in amazing locations with the freedom to be creative and confident with the quality of my mixes. It’s really helped me get out of the studio, and I’ve been making a lot more music as well. These earphones are a lot more intuitive as far as dynamics and stereo treatment are concerned.
Usability
A close friend who is a professional mastering and mix engineer suggested I try the BeyerDynamic DT880 headphones for mobile music production. One of the best things about this model, in particular, is the fact that there is zero ear-fatigue. I can sit wearing them and work for almost 6 to 8 hours at a stretch. This was never possible with other headphones, due to the ear-fatigue, pressure, and discomfort, with the way most headphones fit around the ear. These headphones cover the ear completely but are also semi-open, avoiding any sort of vacuum.
Upside to the DT 880
• Great sound quality; built for professionals.
• Extremely lightweight, and comes with a solid travel case.
• Zero ear-fatigue for continuous workflow.
The Downside to the DT 880
• Quite expensive — in the range of some cheaper monitors.
• If used without a sound-card, has an overall low output.
• Not foldable, and the case takes up quite a bit of space.
| What’s in the DT 880 Box | DT 880 Tech Specs |
| • DT 880 Headphones • Gold Plated Stereo Jacks (1/8″ & 1/4″ Adapter) • Coiled DJ cable • Travel pouch | • Frequency Response: 5 Hz—35,000 Hz • Nominal SPL: 96 dbSPL • Transducer Type: Dynamic • Operating Principle: Semi-Open • Cable: 3m / Coiled Cable • Connector: Gold Plated Stereo Mini Jack 1/8″ & 1/4″ Adapter |
| Approximate Price: INR 20,000/-. |
Final Call
I believe the DT 880’s are a great investment for the travelling musician who makes music on a laptop, or just for someone who’s keen to expand their work hours outside the studio. It’s amazing how closely these headphones can simulate a studio environment.
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