Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X Review

ByObeydul Haque

Beyerdynamic has long been a respected name in the audio world, known for crafting headphones that strike a balance between precision engineering and sonic excellence. With the DT 900 PRO X, the German manufacturer introduces a versatile open-back headphone designed to appeal to both studio professionals and discerning music enthusiasts. Released as part of the PRO X series alongside the closed-back DT 700 PRO X, these headphones promise exceptional sound quality, durability, and comfort—all at a competitive price point of around $299 USD. In this review, we’ll explore every facet of the DT 900 PRO X, from its build quality to its acoustic performance, and determine whether it lives up to the hype.

Design and Build Quality

Beyerdynamic has a reputation for constructing headphones that feel like they’re built to last, and the DT 900 PRO X is no exception. Weighing in at 345 grams (without the cable), these headphones are relatively lightweight for an open-back design, making them suitable for extended listening sessions. The construction is a blend of premium materials: a sturdy metal headband, reinforced yokes, and high-quality plastics for the ear cup housings. The headband is padded with soft velour, ensuring comfort without compromising durability.

The ear cups feature a sleek, minimalist design with a matte black finish accented by subtle silver detailing—a look that’s both professional and understated. The open-back grille is a standout feature, not just aesthetically but functionally, as it allows for the airy soundstage that open-back headphones are known for. The ear pads and headband padding are replaceable, a thoughtful touch for professionals who might use these headphones for years in a studio setting. Beyerdynamic even includes a spare pair of velour ear pads in the box, adding value to the package.

The DT 900 PRO X comes with a detachable mini-XLR cable, a feature that enhances its practicality. Two cables are included: a 1.8-meter and a 3-meter option, both terminated with a 3.5mm connector and a 6.35mm adapter. The cables are thick yet flexible, with a coiled section near the headphone end to reduce strain. This modularity ensures that if a cable wears out, you won’t need to replace the entire unit—just swap it out. It’s a small but significant detail that reflects Beyerdynamic’s attention to the needs of its users.

While the headphones don’t fold for portability, they come with a sturdy carrying pouch for protection. For studio use or home listening, this isn’t a dealbreaker, but frequent travelers might find the lack of a hard case or collapsible design a minor inconvenience.

Comfort: A Fit for Long Sessions

Comfort is a critical factor for headphones, especially in the professional audio world where sessions can stretch for hours. The DT 900 PRO X excels here, thanks to its ergonomic design. The velour ear pads are plush and breathable, enveloping the ears without creating excessive heat—a common issue with closed-back designs. The clamping force is moderate, striking a balance between a secure fit and a relaxed feel. At 345 grams, the weight is distributed evenly across the headband, preventing fatigue during prolonged use.

During testing, I wore the DT 900 PRO X for over four hours straight while mixing tracks and later listening to a variety of albums. The experience was consistently comfortable, with no noticeable pressure points. The open-back design also helps with ventilation, reducing the sweaty-ear syndrome that can plague closed-back headphones. For users with larger heads, the adjustable headband offers ample extension, ensuring a custom fit.

One potential downside is that the velour pads, while luxurious, can attract dust and hair over time. Regular maintenance—like swapping in the spare pads or gently cleaning them—will keep them in top shape. Overall, the DT 900 PRO X is among the most comfortable open-back headphones in its class, rivaling models like the Sennheiser HD 660S and even Beyerdynamic’s own DT 1990 PRO.

Sound Quality: The Heart of the DT 900 PRO X

The DT 900 PRO X is equipped with Beyerdynamic’s new STELLAR.45 driver, a 45mm dynamic transducer designed to deliver high performance across a wide range of devices. With an impedance of 48 ohms and a sensitivity of 100 dB SPL, these headphones are surprisingly easy to drive compared to Beyerdynamic’s higher-impedance classics like the 250-ohm DT 990 PRO. This lower impedance means you can plug them into a laptop, smartphone, or audio interface without needing a dedicated headphone amplifier—though a good DAC/amp will still unlock their full potential.

Frequency Response and Tonality

The DT 900 PRO X boasts a frequency response of 5 Hz to 40 kHz, a range that far exceeds human hearing but speaks to the headphones’ ability to reproduce subtle details. Out of the box, the sound signature leans toward neutrality with a slight emphasis on treble clarity—a hallmark of Beyerdynamic’s house sound. However, unlike the piercing highs of the DT 990 PRO, the DT 900 PRO X tempers this brightness for a more balanced presentation.

  • Bass: The low end is tight and controlled, with excellent extension down to the sub-bass frequencies. Listening to tracks like Billie Eilish’s “Bad Guy,” the kick drums hit with precision rather than overwhelming boominess. It’s not the warmest or most exaggerated bass, which suits the open-back design and studio-oriented focus, but it’s satisfying for most genres.
  • Midrange: Vocals and instruments in the midrange are clear and forward without being overly recessed or shouty. On Norah Jones’ “Come Away With Me,” her voice floated naturally in the mix, with the piano accompaniment retaining its warmth and texture. The mids are slightly less lush than some competitors like the Sennheiser HD 600, but they’re accurate and detailed.
  • Treble: The treble is where the DT 900 PRO X shines—and occasionally stumbles. It’s crisp and airy, revealing micro-details in cymbals and strings, as heard in Vivaldi’s “The Four Seasons.” However, on poorly mastered tracks or bright recordings (think early 2000s pop), the highs can edge into sibilance. It’s not fatiguing for most listeners, but treble-sensitive users might notice it during long sessions.
Soundstage and Imaging

As an open-back headphone, the DT 900 PRO X delivers a wide, expansive soundstage that feels almost speaker-like. Listening to Pink Floyd’s “Dark Side of the Moon,” the spatial cues—echoes, panning effects, and layered instrumentation—were rendered with impressive width and depth. Imaging is precise, allowing you to pinpoint the placement of instruments in a mix, which makes these headphones a fantastic tool for critical listening and mixing.

Compared to closed-back models, the DT 900 PRO X sacrifices isolation for this openness. Sound leaks both ways: you’ll hear ambient noise, and others will hear your music. This makes them less ideal for noisy environments or shared spaces but perfect for quiet studios or home setups.

Versatility Across Genres

From classical to electronic, the DT 900 PRO X handles a broad spectrum of music with aplomb. Daft Punk’s “Get Lucky” showcased its rhythmic punch and detail retrieval, while Mahler’s Symphony No. 5 highlighted its ability to manage complex orchestral dynamics. For gaming, the wide soundstage enhances immersion, though the lack of a detachable mic limits its appeal for multiplayer setups.

Features and Accessories

The DT 900 PRO X keeps things simple, focusing on core functionality rather than flashy extras. The detachable cable system is the standout feature, offering flexibility and longevity. The included 1.8m and 3m cables cater to different use cases—short for portable devices, long for studio desks. The 3.5mm-to-6.35mm adapter is threaded, ensuring a secure connection to professional gear.

There’s no active noise cancellation or Bluetooth, which isn’t surprising for an open-back studio headphone. The carrying pouch is basic but functional, though a hard case would have been a welcome addition for the price. The spare ear pads are a thoughtful inclusion, reinforcing the headphones’ serviceability.

Performance in Professional Settings

For audio engineers and producers, the DT 900 PRO X is a compelling option. Its neutral-leaning sound profile and detailed imaging make it a reliable reference tool for mixing and mastering. During a test mix of a rock track, the headphones revealed subtle imperfections—like a slightly harsh vocal reverb—that were less apparent on consumer-grade cans. The open-back design aids in judging stereo placement and reverb tails, though you’ll need a quiet room to avoid bleed.

The 48-ohm impedance is a boon for professionals on the go. I plugged the DT 900 PRO X into a Focusrite Scarlett 2i2 interface and a MacBook Pro, and it performed admirably without additional amplification. Pairing it with a dedicated amp like the Schiit Magni Heresy brought out even more dynamic range, but it’s not a necessity.

Comparison to Competitors

  • Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO: The DT 990 PRO (250 ohms) is brighter and less refined, with a narrower soundstage. The DT 900 PRO X is easier to drive and more comfortable, making it a clear upgrade.
  • Sennheiser HD 660S: The HD 660S offers a warmer, more intimate sound with slightly better mids, but its 150-ohm impedance demands more power. The DT 900 PRO X wins on versatility and price.
  • HIFIMAN Sundara: The Sundara has a more laid-back treble and planar magnetic drivers for a different flavor of detail. It’s a close call, but the DT 900 PRO X feels sturdier and more practical for studio use.

Pros and Cons

Pros:

  • Exceptional soundstage and imaging for an open-back design
  • Comfortable for long sessions with replaceable pads
  • Easy to drive at 48 ohms, no amp required
  • Durable build with detachable cables
  • Balanced sound with detailed treble and tight bass

Cons:

  • Treble can be bright on certain tracks
  • No hard case included
  • Open-back design limits use in noisy environments

Final Thoughts

The Beyerdynamic DT 900 PRO X is a triumph of engineering, blending studio-grade performance with enough versatility to satisfy audiophiles and casual listeners alike. Its open-back design delivers a spacious, detailed soundstage that excels for critical listening, mixing, and immersive music enjoyment. The comfortable fit, replaceable parts, and easy-to-drive drivers make it a practical choice for a wide audience.

At $299, it’s priced competitively against rivals like the Sennheiser HD 660S and HIFIMAN Sundara, offering a compelling mix of build quality, sound, and value. It’s not perfect—the treble brightness might irk some, and the lack of portability features could deter travelers—but these are minor quibbles in an otherwise stellar package.

If you’re a producer seeking a reliable reference headphone, an audiophile craving detail and openness, or simply someone who values quality audio gear, the DT 900 PRO X deserves a spot on your shortlist. Beyerdynamic has once again proven why it’s a titan in the headphone world, and the DT 900 PRO X sets a new standard for what an open-back headphone can achieve in this price range.

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