For those who spend hours immersed in sound—be it for production, mixing, or pure listening pleasure—a reliable set of closed-back headphones is essential. The DT 1770 Pro MKII arrives as an evolution of a well-regarded studio staple, aiming to elevate clarity, comfort, and control with a modern twist. With updates to both the internals and subtle design refinements, this model aims to meet the expectations of critical listeners and audio professionals alike.
While its outward appearance might feel familiar to long-time fans, it’s what lies beneath the surface that sets this version apart. Equipped with updated dynamic drivers and a streamlined impedance, the MKII positions itself as more accessible across a broader range of gear, including portable setups. That level of flexibility opens the door for use well beyond the studio environment without compromising fidelity.
Bundled with a thoughtful selection of accessories and two ear pad options, it’s clear that attention has been paid to customisation and workflow efficiency. Whether used in a studio suite or a home mixing environment, the DT 1770 Pro MKII wears the badge of professional audio gear with purpose.
Design and Functionality
The DT 1770 Pro MKII maintains a professional, understated aesthetic that aligns with Beyerdynamic’s reputation for clean, functional design. The matte black finish on the earcups and headband gives it a refined look, while the subtle logo changes lend a more contemporary edge without straying too far from the original.
The earcups are built with solid aluminium yokes that feel durable and premium, supporting the structure without adding unnecessary weight. A soft layer of padding along the headband improves comfort during extended use, and the clamping force, while snug, ensures the headphones stay securely in place.
Two types of ear pads—velour and leatherette—are included to suit different listening environments and preferences. Swapping them is straightforward and lets you tailor the fit and acoustic experience to your needs, whether you’re aiming for breathability or a tighter seal.
A notable upgrade is the drop in impedance from 250 ohms to just 30 ohms, which broadens compatibility with a range of devices. This makes the MKII far more versatile than its predecessor, particularly when paired with mobile gear or simpler desktop setups. You don’t need a powerful amp to unlock its potential.
The headphone cables are detachable and lock into place via mini-XLR, offering both a 3-metre straight and a 5-metre coiled option in the box. This flexible cabling system is ideal for studio sessions, preventing tangling or tugging when you’re moving around a console or desk setup.
A hard-shell carry case is also included to house the headphones and accessories neatly. The structured design offers solid protection for travel or storage, reinforcing the MKII’s image as a tool for serious audio professionals on the move.
Key Features
At the core of the DT 1770 Pro MKII are Beyerdynamic’s Tesla.45 dynamic drivers, which are engineered for maximum precision and clarity. These drivers improve efficiency and reduce distortion at higher volumes, allowing the headphones to maintain detail even during dynamic swings in music or post-production work.
One of the most practical upgrades is the low 30-ohm impedance, which drastically expands the range of compatible playback devices. Whether connected to a portable audio interface, laptop, or professional-grade mixing board, the MKII delivers consistent audio performance with minimal power requirements.
The headphones feature a closed-back design that helps isolate sound without sacrificing spatial depth. This makes them especially useful in noisy environments or shared workspaces where minimising sound leakage is essential for focus and accuracy.
Imaging and spatial separation have been refined in this iteration, offering an expanded sense of space that belies its closed-back build. Sound elements are positioned with greater clarity, giving the user a more accurate reference when mixing or monitoring layered audio tracks.
Comfort has also been given due attention, with soft ear pads that cater to long listening sessions without causing discomfort or fatigue. The interchangeable pad system ensures that users can adjust the feel and frequency response to suit their own preferences or the specific demands of a session.
Durability is a standout point thanks to the headphone’s aluminium frame and robust build quality. Every part feels engineered for longevity, making the MKII a reliable choice for daily studio work or field recording.
The detachable cable system uses locking mini-XLR connectors, which are both secure and easy to manage. The inclusion of both straight and coiled cables allows users to choose based on their setup or movement needs without needing to buy additional accessories.
The carry case included is more than just a nice extra—it’s a solid, form-fitted storage solution that accommodates the headphones, both cables, and ear pads securely. This makes it easy to store the unit safely or take it between locations with confidence.
Experience Using the Product and Performance
Listening with the DT 1770 Pro MKII reveals just how much refinement has gone into its tuning and presentation. The soundstage is surprisingly wide for a closed-back design, offering a three-dimensional quality that enhances immersion.
Stereo separation is crisp, helping to distinguish instruments and vocal layers with pinpoint accuracy. Even in busy mixes, each element holds its space without getting lost in the fold.
The imaging is particularly strong, presenting audio cues with lifelike directionality. This is a huge benefit for producers working with spatial effects or sound placement in post.
Despite being a closed-back headphone, it feels open in how sound expands outward. It rarely creates the boxed-in sensation that often comes with this type of design.
Bass response is powerful yet disciplined, delivering strong low-end presence without overpowering the mix. Subtle vibrations from bass guitars or kick drums come through with great definition and no muddiness.
Low frequencies are tightly controlled, with minimal bleed into the mids. This ensures that bass-heavy content still retains balance and clarity in more complex tracks.
Midrange reproduction stands out with its clean and natural tone. Whether you’re listening to vocal-heavy music or spoken word, the MKII handles it with finesse.
Transients in the mids are precise, giving acoustic instruments a sense of texture and realism. String plucks, snares, and keys all sound articulate without harshness.
Vocals are particularly well-represented, sitting front and centre with ample presence and tonal nuance. Both male and female voices are rendered with clarity and subtle emotion.
High frequencies are bright and detailed, bringing out shimmer and sparkle without causing fatigue. The treble has a restrained sharpness that enhances resolution without becoming piercing.
The headphone maintains control in the upper register, never sounding brittle even at higher volumes. This lends itself to prolonged sessions without listener fatigue.
The combination of dynamic range and tonal balance makes these headphones ideal for both analytical and recreational use. You can critically assess a track or simply enjoy it without compromise.
Comfort is excellent during extended use thanks to the plush padding and even weight distribution. The clamping force is noticeable but not overbearing, helping maintain a secure fit for different head shapes.
Versatility is one of the MKII’s strongest assets, performing equally well across genres and use cases. From detailed editing to casual listening, it adapts to every scenario with minimal fuss.
Conclusion
The DT 1770 Pro MKII brings a welcome set of improvements to an already respected model, enhancing both accessibility and performance. The inclusion of lower impedance, refined imaging, and wider soundstage makes it a more versatile tool across different audio environments. Whether used with high-end studio gear or more modest setups, it consistently delivers detailed, high-fidelity audio.
Its construction feels built for long-term use, with thoughtful touches like detachable cables and interchangeable pads extending both functionality and comfort. These additions help position the MKII not just as a professional tool, but also as a personal listening companion for those who demand quality at every level. Its blend of ruggedness and refinement stands out in the closed-back headphone space.
From its natural mids to its expansive highs and tight, confident lows, the DT 1770 Pro MKII presents a well-rounded sonic profile. It gives users a high degree of control without introducing artificial colouration, staying true to the source in a way that’s both revealing and enjoyable. This tuning suits professionals who need reliability, as well as enthusiasts who crave precision.
With its combination of smart design choices and upgraded internals, the DT 1770 Pro MKII makes a compelling case for itself in a competitive market. It retains the best elements of the original while expanding its capabilities to a wider audience, making it an outstanding option for anyone serious about sound.
