Beyerdynamic T51p issues/experiences

[DNADave]

I am looking at treating myself to an upgrade to my current portable headphones (AKG K451s) and the Beyerdynamic T51p seems to be well-regarded in terms of sound quality at my budget of around £150. Just a bit concerned, though, as I have read a number of reviews commenting on problems with the cable which apparently is non-detachable. Also, some have said that the build quality generally is not brilliant.

I would be really interested to hear about anyone's experience with these cans, particularly regarding longevity and how robust they might be for the daily commute. Any other suggestions for portable on-ears at about the £150 price mark would be appreciated. Comfort is a factor for me as I am a glasses wearer. My portable kit is an iPod classic playing standard iTunes files linked to a Fiio E7 headphone amp via a line out cable.

Thanks very much!

 

[dalethorn]

I am looking at treating myself to an upgrade to my current portable headphones (AKG K451s) and the Beyerdynamic T51p seems to be well-regarded in terms of sound quality at my budget of around £150. Just a bit concerned, though, as I have read a number of reviews commenting on problems with the cable which apparently is non-detachable. Also, some have said that the build quality generally is not brilliant.

I would be really interested to hear about anyone's experience with these cans, particularly regarding longevity and how robust they might be for the daily commute. Any other suggestions for portable on-ears at about the £150 price mark would be appreciated. Comfort is a factor for me as I am a glasses wearer. My portable kit is an iPod classic playing standard iTunes files linked to a Fiio E7 headphone amp via a line out cable.

Thanks very much!

Generally, the T51p (like its cousin the DT1350) has an excellent build, but the very thin double-entry cables break easily at the earcups. Mine broke, and I am extremely careful with cables. The T51p sounds very different from the DT1350, although they are essentially the same build and drivers. The T51p earpads are one of the best on-ear pads ever made, and I bought 2 sets to use on my DT1350's.

I would recommend that anyone using the T51p do not equalize it. It's OK in sound as is, probably better than the Senn Momentum on-ear, but my attempts to EQ it, even with a great parametric equalizer, just made the sound too choppy.