Beyerdynamic DT 240 Pro

These headphones from the Beyerdynamic DT Pro series should be familiar enough to most studio connoisseurs. In particular, the open DT 990 Pro, as well as the half-enclosed and closed alternatives DT 880 Pro and DT 770 Pro are certainly classic choices for when it comes to recording and monitoring applications in the studio. But can the DT 240 Pro hope to join their ranks and become a beloved classic as well?

What’s Included?

The Beyerdynamic DT 240 Pro is a simple closed headphone with a classic over-ear design. At first glance, it’s the dimensions of the device that grab your attention. It’s abundantly clear that these headphones not only have studio-based applications, but can also be enjoyed on the go. All the visible components of the headphones are black. It’s only when you adjust the headband does a sliver of silver become visible. Here, you’ll also find the serial number engraved. It’s little details like this that are welcome, especially when you consider the asking price of the DT 240 Pro.

Unfortunately, you won’t find a pair of ear cushions included with the main device, although a carry case with drawstring fastening is thankfully provided, as is a 6.35 mm jack adapter. An alternative cable, however, is lacking.

Processing and Technical Specs

The robust design of these headphones is instantly noticeable. The artificial leather of the ear pads and headband are stitched to a high standard, while the aluminium construction of the headband itself ensures the device is both stable and lightweight. Conveniently located screws along the headband allow for easy maintenance when required, while the cable is reinforced to prevent unwanted wear and tear on the go. However, this reinforcement doesn’t impede enjoyment of the headphone, adding no extra weight and taking nothing away from the overall aesthetic. The gold-plated 3.5 mm jack plugs also ensure optimum corrosion protection is in place, which further reinforces the quality of these headphones.

The DT-240 Pro features dynamic drivers that encompass a wide frequency range. This ranges from super deep 5 Hz up to highs of 35 kHz. With its low average impedance levels of 37.7 Ohm, you’ll find this headphone a solid choice for use with mobile and smart devices. This is due to the fact these types of devices usually have headphone outputs with lower output powers than you’d expect with studio devices.

Handling and Usability

The ear pads of the DT-240 Pro are interchangeable, which stands as another enticing feature of these headphones. As they have a pleasingly soft texture, the pads are barely noticeable when you’ve put these on, even though they sit snug against the ear. Sadly, you won’t find velour pads available as a swap for these headphones just yet, but you’ll have no complaints when it comes to the wearing comfort of these faux leather ear cushions. That’s even true of longer listening sessions. Since the headphones and cable combined weigh a total of approximately 230 grams, they also result in a lower overall contact pressure. This further enhances the comfort and wearability of these headphones, promising fatigue-free listening for longer. What’s more, the headband of the DT-240 Pro is pleasant to the touch with its soft padding throughout the headband. Another neat detail is that the size adjustment feature of the headband has a memory function, remembering the last fit selected for convenience.

The included spiral cable is 130 cm in length at its minimum, making it suitable for use with mobiles or media devices on the go. When it comes to studio use, the cable can be stretched to its full reach of 3 metres. This is in keeping with the length provided by other DT Pro headphones. If you’re not a fan of spiral cables, you’ll be pleased to know that the pre-installed cable is replaceable. Freedom of movement is assured thanks to the fact the cable is one-sided, with flexible attachment to the left or right earpiece.

As the thread of the screw adapter is relatively narrow, the headphones can be plugged into smartphones and tablets enclosed within a protective cover with no fuss. This little detail is a sign the manufacturer has thought about its users and their needs. For example, such a feature makes mobile recording all the more easier. Another plus point worth mentioning is the fact the earpieces are rotatable by 90 degrees. When turned, the headphones can be stored away discreetly in the included carry case, taking up little space. The stiffness of the headband also means you can choose to wear the earpieces at a slightly offset alignment. For example, those who wish to listen via the device with only one ear, while leaving the other ear free to listen to surrounding on-location sounds, can do so with the DT 240 Pro without any fuss. What’s more, when used in this manner, the headphones sit securely for maximum convenience.

Sound

Beyerdynamic promises studio quality, even with mobile applications in the advertising material that promotes these headphones. Spatial sound reproduction is definitely satisfying to the ear, although the stereo width is lacking and differentiation in depth of audio also fails to completely convince. That being said, the DT 240 Pro doesn’t intend to serve as a reference headphone, but seems fit for the task of monitoring recordings on the go and in everyday studio applications. When it comes to signal transitions, they’re decent enough performers, but lack a finely-tuned edge. Its maximum sound pressure level of 101.91 dB, measured as such for this test, proves to be significantly louder than its more expensive siblings from the DT Pro Series.

Although the low bass range doesn’t quite reach the advertised scope, it’s sufficiently rich overall. A slight reduction at 65 Hz means that these headphones don’t quite boom in the bass range. Those who love electronic music and urban styles will certainly sense shallower shades of the bass range, but will struggle to be bowled over. The mid-range of these headphones also lacks vibrancy, but it doesn’t suffer from shrillness, even with signature mid-range signals typical of guitars and synthesisers. On this point, I’d recommend these headphones to guitarists seeking something for monitoring applications during recording sessions as they allow the user to listen to recording audio for long spells without feeling fatigued. The frequency response range upholds assertive vocals and spoken voice signals, while the high-frequency boost at around 11 kHz doesn’t suffer from hissing. All these points make the DT 240 Pro a solid choice for voice recording sessions, with podcasts and on-location recording ideal situations in which to put them to use. Solid shielding from external noise also serves these applications well. However, while defined highs are promised, they failed to materialise in this test. The overall sound output of these headphones never scales significant levels of performance beyond the 11 kHz boost.

The DT 240 Pro is a good choice of headphone for those seeking monitoring applications when recording due to its overall warm sound that lends itself well to audio requiring plenty of tonal sharpness and clarity. Guitars, synthesisers and vocal signals all benefit from this warm, soft reproduction. Ultimately, this means you’re free to work with the incoming signals for longer without feeling fatigued. However, it’s a less suitable choice for sound-critical use in the studio, such as mixing and mastering applications. That being said, the DT 240 Pro has never been promoted as a practical option for such requirements. There are several other models from Beyerdynamic currently available that are highly suitable for these more demanding duties.