BeyerDynamic has been building headphones and microphones since the company was founded in Berlin in 1924, and today the semi-open-back DT 880 PRO headphone is the second-from-the-top model in the firm's lineup.

Headphones are especially challenging to review. Because a headphone's frequency response depends on the ear canals of the listener, and each person's ear canals are different, a pair of headphones will sound somewhat -- or even substantially -- different to each person.

Headphones are to speakers as motorcycles are to automobiles. Not as generally useful, sure, but significantly better in some respects. And a whole lot cheaper for a given level of performance.

You may wonder why you would need a high-end pair of studio monitoring headphones for ham radio use. Put on a pair of these and you will immediately know the answer. First, these phones fit around, rather than on the ears, making them very comfortable, even when worn for long periods.

Very nice all-around headphone. Does everything well. The standout for me was the tight, fast, detailed bass, some of the best I've heard. I won't go on about all the good qualities of these cans, others have already pointed them out. I had 2 minor complaints and 1 major problem with these.

these 'phones have been sounding better and better during the month so far that I've had them (I was told they may take 300 hrs to "burn-in" and so far its true that they've gotton better and better as I approach that number of hrs).

Comfortable; Durable; Good Bass; Good soundstage; Great clarity; Great Sound

I purchased the DT880 Pros as my first open/semi open headphones, after returning the DT770 Pro 80s due to earaches from the excessive bass. I am a bit of an analytical headphone person with certain genres I listen to.

Built well; high quality materials; soft earpads and headband; analytical; quick; drum-tight sub bass

picky with amps and mastering; heavy cable; drivers press against ears; sibilant; metallic highs; bland mid range; uninvolving; not much musicality

Headphones don't get more comfortable than these DT880s, with their soft cushion and perfect grip. Sound is pleasing, too, thanks to an impressive all-round ability.

Impressive all-round ability

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The Beyerdynamic DT 880s have a semi-open design that combines the attributes of open and closed headphones -- their external sound isn't as loud as it would be with an open design. Comfort levels were among the best we've experienced.

Very comfortable; Padded aluminum storage case; Comes with additional 1/4-inch adaptor and 5m extension cord

Expensive; Sometimes sound a bit narrow

I had not realised how different headphones can sound with the same input until I started searching for a pair to upgrade my old Beyerdynamic DT550 pair. These had lasted for more than 30 years and were very satisfactory. I listen mainly to classical music, from chamber music to opera.