The Short Answer
The ATH-M50x is more portable, V-shaped with elevated mid-bass and forward highs, and works from any source including phones. The DT 770 Pro has deeper bass extension, wider soundstage, more durable construction, and benefits significantly from a dedicated amplifier.
For studio monitoring and gaming: DT 770 Pro. For portable and general use: ATH-M50x. For long-term value: DT 770 Pro.
Specs Comparison
| Audio-Technica ATH-M50x | Beyerdynamic DT 770 Pro | |
|---|---|---|
| Impedance | 38Ω | 80Ω or 250Ω |
| Sensitivity | 99 dB/mW | 96 dB/mW (80Ω) |
| Frequency response | 15–28,000 Hz | 5–35,000 Hz |
| Weight | 285g | 270g |
| Cable | Detachable (3 cables included) | Coiled, non-detachable (Pro) |
| Typical price | ~$149 | ~$149 (80Ω) |
Sound Signature: The Key Differences
ATH-M50x
The ATH-M50x has a V-shaped tuning that became the industry standard for “exciting closed-back headphone” for a decade. Mid-bass is elevated — bass guitar and kick drums have punch and presence. The midrange is slightly recessed, which creates a sense of separation between bass and treble. The high-end is forward but controlled — detailed without sibilance on most material.
The overall character is engaging and flattering for pop, hip-hop, R&B, and electronic music. For mixing and monitoring, the mid-bass emphasis and recession in the lower midrange creates a slightly misleading picture — bass will seem heavier in a mix on the ATH-M50x than it actually is on reference speakers.
DT 770 Pro
The DT 770 Pro is also V-shaped, but differently so. Its bass extends deeper with less mid-bass bloom — the emphasis is more in the sub-bass and upper bass rather than the mid-bass hump of the ATH-M50x. The result is bass that sounds more physical and less warm.
The DT 770 Pro’s treble is brighter and more prominent than the ATH-M50x. High-frequency detail is exceptional — cymbals, strings, and electronic hi-hats are reproduced with accuracy. The treble emphasis Beyerdynamic is known for is present but more controlled here than in the DT 990 Pro.
Soundstage on the DT 770 Pro is noticeably wider than the ATH-M50x despite both being closed-back. This makes a meaningful difference for gaming and for music with complex stereo information.
Comfort and Long-Session Use
Both headphones are comfortable for extended sessions, but differently:
- ATH-M50x: The ear cups fold flat and rotate for portability. The clamp force is moderate. The pleather ear pads tend to cause heat buildup in warm environments and degrade faster than velour. After 2–3 hours, most users notice warmth around the ears.
- DT 770 Pro: Velour ear pads do not cause heat buildup. The headband clamp is firmer initially but loosens with use. Most users find the DT 770 Pro more comfortable for 4+ hour sessions due to the velour padding.
Build Quality and Durability
This is not a close competition. The DT 770 Pro’s coiled cable is non-detachable on the Pro version, which is a minor limitation for portability — but the rest of the headphone is built to last decades. Velour ear pads, replaceable headband cushion, metal headband reinforcement, and Beyerdynamic’s history of manufacturing durability make the DT 770 Pro the longer-term investment.
The ATH-M50x’s detachable cable is convenient, but the pleather ear pads crack within 2–3 years of regular use and official Audio-Technica replacement pads are expensive. Third-party options are available but inconsistent.
Use Case Recommendations
| Use Case | Better Pick |
|---|---|
| Studio monitoring / mixing | DT 770 Pro |
| Gaming | DT 770 Pro |
| Portable use (commuting, travel) | ATH-M50x |
| Phone/laptop use without amp | ATH-M50x (38Ω) |
| Long listening sessions (4hr+) | DT 770 Pro (velour pads) |
| Hip-hop and electronic music | Either — personal preference |
| Classical and acoustic | DT 770 Pro (wider soundstage) |
| DJ monitoring | ATH-M50x (swivel cups) |
| Long-term durability | DT 770 Pro |
Which Should You Buy?
Buy the ATH-M50x if:
- You need a portable headphone that works from any source
- You want three cables in the box (coiled, straight long, straight short)
- You use them for commuting or travel regularly
- You prefer the ATH-M50x’s mid-bass warmth
- You want the swivelling cups for single-ear DJ monitoring
Buy the DT 770 Pro if:
- You’re using them at a desk with a dedicated amp
- Build quality and long-term durability matter
- You game and want better soundstage
- You want velour ear pads that don’t cause heat buildup
- You’re doing studio monitoring or casual mixing
The DT 770 Pro is the better long-term investment if you’re primarily using headphones at a desk. The ATH-M50x makes more sense if portability is a priority and you don’t want to deal with amplification.