Prologue. The more often I began to remind in reviews that I do not work with sound professionally, the more often I began to receive headphones for professional use. (Apparently full-size PRO-segment headphones are more in demand than others). Now let's move on to the review.
Over the course of several years, I have periodically described various headphones from the famous German company Beyerdynamic. I gradually became acquainted with all the current models, simultaneously comparing them with each other in various combinations. At the same time, the Beyerdynamic headphones I reviewed could not be called new. In most cases, these were well-known, long-standing and well-proven models.
At the very beginning of this year, I finally received real new products from the eminent company for review. We are talking about two models, namely Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X and Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X. In addition to the review of the new products, I will definitely compare them with the legendary ones, as written on the boxes, Beyerdynamic DT 770 PRO and Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO.
Packaging and equipment
The Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X have the same boxes. The packaging material is recycled cardboard, painted black. There is an orange strip pasted on the right, which shows the headphones and the model name. This strip goes not only through the title side, but also extends onto the side edges, as if being a kind of seal. That is, now you can visually determine whether the box has been opened before. In the middle, everything is also made of cardboard; no foam protection is provided. The headphones are located on a cradle and their bowls are separated by an additional cardboard partition.
In addition to the headphones themselves, in the box you will find: a thick neoprene case with a drawstring, two detachable cables 1.8 and 3.0 m long, two adapters from 3.5 to 6.3 mm (one for each cable), a tape with a plastic retainer (most likely for tightening the cable), many different booklets with excellent printing quality and several stickers with the logos of the company and the Pro X series.
As you can see, the equipment package of the new products has expanded significantly and one of the main advantages of the headphones is now a detachable cable. It also only attaches to the left earcup, has a miniXLR connector, and is made of a rubberized material. According to the information on the box, the 700 Pro X and 900 Pro X are assembled in Germany.
Connection cable
You won't find the currently popular Bluetooth here. Connection is made only via wire. The package includes a three-meter cable with a rubberized insulating coating, with which you can connect the device to a home analog amplifier, computer or Hi-Fi player. My only complaint is that the cable is too long for mobile use. It would be better if the company included an additional wire up to 1 meter long.
Please note that the cord is equipped with 3.5mm gold-plated connectors that have small threads to lock tightly into the socket. Therefore, it will not be possible to use inexpensive connecting cables from other manufacturers.
Design and ergonomics
The design of the new Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X headphones is radically different from both the DT 770 Pro and DT 990 Pro. The appearance is discreet, without unnecessary decorative details. The color of the main components of the headphones, not counting the ear pads, is black. The shape of the bowls has been changed, now more reminiscent of the older models DT 1770 Pro and DT 1990 Pro. The headband padding does not go all the way around it and is no longer on the buttons. It is probably made of eco-leather and is located only under the lower part. The ear pads remained velor, gray in color, but changed their profile and shade - they became thicker and darker.
The plastic is of high quality and, due to its structure, fingerprints are practically invisible on it. The channel markings are printed on the inside of the headband in black, so they are not very visible. At the same time, you can very quickly navigate by the cable on the left earcup and by the special orange thin strip on the inside of the headband, also located on the left side - this is convenient.
The ergonomics of the 700 Pro X and 900 Pro X are another significant difference from the DT 770 and 990. Tactilely, the materials of the new headphones are very pleasant; no squeaks or other sounds were detected when using the headphones. Both pairs have gained noticeable weight: 350g (700 Pro X) versus 270g (DT 770) and 345g (900 Pro X) versus 250g (DT 990). Indeed, the headphones feel heavier in the hand and on the head. Due to thicker ear pads and greater tracking force, the new models fit tighter. This left me with two opinions: the positive thing is that the headphones fit tightly and even with sudden movements are unlikely to fly off your head; negative – after a while you may feel tired. In addition, there is less room for the ears. The 700 Pro X and 900 Pro X headphones are the case when wearing comfort is best assessed personally.
pros
- the headphones are hand-assembled in Germany and have a reliable, vibration-resistant design;
- special Tesla technology with powerful specially shaped magnets is used;
- the device is equipped with a convenient removable cable, which, if desired, can be replaced by purchasing from the manufacturer;
- The headphones have soft ear pads that do not interfere with the ventilation of the skin of the ears;
- The product provides the clearest possible sound with careful study of the entire frequency range.
Sound
As you know, the DT 770 and DT 990 models had different resistance options. For example, the DT 770 had impedances of 32, 80, and 250 ohms to choose from. This partly determined the main use cases - from mobile sources to studio equipment. The new DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X are available only in the 48 Ohm version, which expands the range of different connections. In addition, the included short cable provides additional convenience when connecting to various portable sources.
And the most important thing is the sound. Even though the DT 700 are closed-back and the DT 900 are open-back headphones, their overall sound delivery is similar. When listening to music, it is better to choose a neutral source that has good control of low frequencies and does not emphasize the midrange.
Specifications
- The type of headphone design is open dynamic.
- The stated frequency range is from 5 to 40,000 hertz.
- The harmonic coefficient does not exceed 0.05%.
- The rated power carried by the headphones is 200 mW.
- The weight of the device excluding the connecting cable is 340 grams.
- Nominal impedance 250 ohms.
- The maximum SPL is 124 decibels.
Looking at these headphones, it may seem that the manufacturer Beyerdynamic has forgotten that one of the current trends among audiophiles is the refusal to use standard wires with a 3.5 mm jack in favor of wireless technologies and USB or Lightning connections. Home headphones of the Beyerdynamic Amiron Home model limit the user in the choice of sound sources and places to listen to music. They insist that the owner takes the musical compositions as seriously as possible.
After a detailed study of the hero of the review, one can be grateful for this approach of the German manufacturer and the fact that the company does not follow the general trend. Beyerdynamic managed to release a truly unique product that will appeal to any connoisseur of high-quality sound.
Sound of Beyerdynamic DT 700 Pro X and comparison with DT 770 Pro 80 Ohm
In terms of professional use, in my opinion, the DT 700 Pro X are focused on mid-range work. The voice, the sound of mid-frequency instruments and vocal parts are what you first notice.
In the midrange, the headphones sound full and solid. Instruments and vocals are conveyed bodily. Vocalists are often brought forward and can even sound a little intrusive.
The bass plays clearly, it is solid and dense.
High frequencies are clearly audible, although not the most detailed, but without being overly bright or harsh. In terms of RF analytics, the DT 700 is inferior to the DT 770.
It's best to start comparing the DT 700 Pro X and DT 770 with ergonomics. As I said, the 700 Pro X weigh more, fit tighter on the head and have less room for the ears in the middle of their ear pads. The sound of the headphones is quite different. In short, for analytics, accurate bass transmission, lightness and airiness of highs, I would give preference to old friends - DT 770 PRO. On the other hand, if your priority is working with voice or vocals, you need a thick sound or drive in music, the DT 700 Pro X will be the best choice. Also, the new model may be suitable for listening to rock music, electronic genres or vocal works (except opera, since the 700 Pro X lacks airiness).
Where can I buy?
Do you want to buy a Beyerdynamic Amiron Home? The products of this company are offered in Russia by the Clife online store. Our catalog presents a wide range of headphones and headsets from Beyerdynamic, as well as other world-famous manufacturers. Direct purchases of goods allow us to set the lowest possible prices for them for end customers.
You can place an order using the button on the website or contact our managers by phone. The company provides delivery of headphones to any address within Russia.
Sound of Beyerdynamic DT 900 Pro X and comparison with DT 990 Pro
Play
The sound presentation of the DT 900 Pro X generally has the same features as the DT 700 Pro X. The greatest attention is paid to the mid frequencies. At the same time, due to the open design, the sound is transmitted with less bass dominance, and the DT 900 Pro X headphones themselves feel more balanced than the DT 700. The manufacturer itself specifies the phrase “Studio headphones for critical listening” for the 900 Pro X, which is not available for 700 Pro X.
Since I had the opportunity to compare the DT 900 Pro X with the DT 990 at 250 Ohms, the first difference is the different scenarios for using the headphones. The DT 990 250 Ohm version should be used with powerful sound sources or studio equipment. Much more tolerant in this regard, the DT 900 with an impedance of 48 Ohms opens up quite well with portable sources. The cable of the DT 990 is not removable, twisted and rather heavy, so the left bowl can sometimes be distorted on the head, which is not the case with the DT 900. In terms of stage width, the DT 990 are superior to the new DT 900 and play openly, brightly, and in detail at high frequencies. The downside of this sound in the DT 990 is: increased requirements for the quality of the material, sharpness of presentation and periodic synthetics at high frequencies.
TESLA technology
The ideal sound of the headphones is based on a unique technology from Beyerdynamic, which was named TESLA in honor of the famous engineer and physicist. This is a powerful magnetic drive that ensures clear playback and low harmonic distortion. This combination improves the performance of the headphones.
Previously, the company's dynamic systems were manufactured using standard neodymium magnets. The magnet is now ring shaped and placed around the coil. According to the manufacturer, this approach allows more energy to be transferred to the membrane. The advantage to the house is that it becomes more detailed and dynamic. This technology is difficult to understand mentally, but after using the Beyerdynamic Amiron Home, you are unlikely to want to go back to products from other manufacturers.
Alternatives to Beyerdynamic Lagoon ANC
The market for premium wireless headphones with active noise cancellation is now crowded, and there are a huge number of options for purchase. The Beyerdynamic Lagoon ANC faces some serious competition. The first obvious candidate is the Sony WH-1000XM3. Yes, not the newest, but this only means that their price is gradually decreasing - until it is finally replaced by some other model.
The latest Momentum Wireless 3 from Sennheiser also deserves attention. Although they are larger in size, the Momentum 3 is excellent in every other way, although it costs significantly more than the Lagoon ANC. If you choose among more expensive models, there is an excellent option in the form of Bowers & Wilkins PX7. Quality materials, luxurious design and great sound make them seem more expensive than they actually are.
Don't forget about the Bose Noise Canceling Headphones 700 or AKG N700NC. Both models have high sound quality and stylish design, so they can easily compete with all the options listed above.
And these are just the most obvious rivals. It is clear that a new lighting system alone is not enough to stand out from other competitors. Luckily, Lagoon ANCs have much more to offer and the odds of success are high.
Bottom line
Beyerdynamic Lagoon ANC headphones provide crisp, rich, clear sound. Their active noise cancellation is better than average, with two useful modes. The included app can also help you customize the soundstage to suit your preferences.
Unfortunately, with what they offer, there are some drawbacks, like a control panel that easily misses false positives, and most notably the high price. There are slightly more attractive options in this price range.
Is it worth buying?
You decide! Don't get me wrong, I also like the Lagoon ANC, but they would be a lot easier to recommend at a much lower price point.
Music from your pocket
It is convenient to consider an Apple gadget as a typical portable player, be it an iPhone or (as in my case) an iPod Touch, which is essentially the same iPhone, only without a communication module. But since the class of headphones in question is quite high, and Apple is known for its habit of independently deciding how good the quality of music a user should hear, I decided to add another portable device to the test - the Wileyfox Swift Android smartphone. There are no special chips in it, but in its class of devices it stands out with a fairly high resolution and a noticeably more linear frequency response.
Audiophile players are a good thing, but most often we listen to music from such devices
The main specificity of all portable devices is their work in the bass region. The deeper the bass, the more power is required to reproduce it, and the built-in amplifiers of smartphones usually have a power of no more than 2-3 mW. As a result, manufacturers are faced with a choice: reduce the depth of the actually reproduced bass, compensating for this with equalization, or allow things to happen naturally, risking that the amplifier will be overloaded with bassy music and a powerful load, and the bass will turn out to be uncontrollable. Apple took the first path, and Wileyfox took the second.
With headphone output
I decided to cover the topic of stationary Hi-Fi devices from two sides. The first option for using headphones in home Hi-Fi usually comes down to using the corresponding output (it is in the amplifier, AV receiver or CD player).
If you are not yet aware of new trends, get acquainted: modern mid-range hi-fi now looks like this
The Bluesound Node 2 network player was chosen for this role. On the one hand, it is a full-fledged Hi-Fi component, and on the other, a compact device that can be used as a desktop network player that works with both active acoustics and headphones.
Source: iPod Touch
The iDX 200 iE headphones did not produce much bass, emphasizing vocals and the sibilance area. Percussion occasionally played solo, the complex music lacked integrity, and the instruments sounded disjointed. The difference between MP3 and FLAC was slightly noticeable, but the superiority of Hi-Res was basically not audible.
The Custom Street, with its ports closed, gave a sense of greater detail and a slightly smoother tonal balance. After opening the port one notch, the sound became significantly bassier, but on some tracks the bass was no longer controlled and became booming. At two bars he finally lost control.
The Custom One Pro Plus headphones, even with the ports fully open, did not produce enough bass - it sounded booming and somewhere far from the listener. The mid frequencies were soloed, the upper frequencies were in short supply. I couldn’t shake the feeling that they were playing with cheap in-ear headphones for 100 rubles.
T1 turned on. There is catastrophically little bass, but otherwise the sound is surprisingly good. Unexpectedly smooth tonality with a wide stage created the impression of high-quality sound, but no matter what file was played, it seemed that it was all MP3 with a bitrate of 128 to 320. The reason for this was the high resolution at the upper frequencies, at which one could hear one’s own device noise.
Conclusion: Full sound was provided by headphones with the least smooth frequency response and the lowest resolution. The higher the class of headphones, the more strange and unpredictable the result. It is logical to assume that for the iPod Touch you need to choose cheaper models.
Recommended Model: Sounded best with the Custom Street, also compatible with the iDX 200 iE, especially with a little EQ work.
Active Noise Cancellation ANC
The active noise cancellation feature on the Beyerdynamic Lagoon has two modes. A pleasant discovery is that the first of them does not change the sound in any way and at the same time blocks almost all external sounds.
When switched to full power (second position), ambient noise is muffled even more, but the soundstage becomes much more crowded and unnatural. A barely noticeable hiss appears in the background. Therefore, unless you are near a building that is about to be demolished, it is better to leave noise reduction in the first mode.
