Beyerdynamic DT 770

Design

The DT 770s strike us as the more casual set of higher-end headphones. The ATH-ESW9s are definitely more formal, with their wooden ear cups and sheepskin-covered padding. You can customize the DT 770s’ appearance for a price, using Beyerdynamic’s MANUFAKTUR service, while the ATH-ESW9s have the one, classy look to them. In terms of durability, the two headphones are about the same. The DT 770s will be slightly less portable than the ATH-ESW9s, due to the latter’s smaller form factor.

Beyerdynamic DT 770	Audio-Technica ATH-ESW9

Frequency Response

The ATH-ESW9s were slightly more erratic than the DT 770s. They drop below our lower limit in the same spot as the DT 770, but stay outside the limits for a longer period of time. Since the biggest chunk of this divot occurs towards 7kHz, it might make drums sound a bit weak.

Beyerdynamic DT 770	Audio-Technica ATH-ESW9

Distortion

Again, neither of the fancy headphones had distortion issues.

Beyerdynamic DT 770	Audio-Technica ATH-ESW9

Tracking

The ATH-ESW9s did slightly better on this test, with much more even tracking towards the bass end and a less significant shift towards the high end.

Beyerdynamic DT 770	Audio-Technica ATH-ESW9

Isolation

The DT 770 was better at isolating, blocking out a lot more sound in the middle frequencies.

Beyerdynamic DT 770	Audio-Technica ATH-ESW9

Comfort

We had fit issues with both of these. We thought the ATH-ESW9s were too tight from the get-go, and stayed slightly uncomfortable for the entire six hour span we were wearing them. The DT 770s started out much more comfortable, but then the band started to bruise our skulls. Our recommendation, as always, is to try on both for a few hours. Based on our own experience, however, the DT 770s are more comfortable for a short duration, at which point both are equally uncomfortable.

Verdict

There weren’t any major differences between these headphones in terms of audio quality and wear experience. Whether or not you’ll prefer either set of these headphones will likely come down to your own opinions on their sound, form factor, and aesthetics. The ATH-ESW9 are more portable, but they barely block out any external noise, which means they’re not the most travel friendly. The DT 770s aren’t portable at all, but do have better isolating capabilities.

For most people, the DT 770s cheaper price tag and slightly better performance will make it the optimal choice.