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You are comparing the Marshall Monitor III ANC and the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO. Both are over-ear headphones designed for studio and audiophile use. This marshall vs beyerdynamic noise cancelling headphone comparison highlights a key split. One model offers active noise cancellation and wireless connectivity. The other provides open-back acoustics and a wired connection. You need to decide between portable convenience and critical listening accuracy based on your specific audio workflow.
Connection
Wireless
Wired
Back Design
Not listed
Open-Back
Features
Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency Mode
Not listed
Impedance
Not listed
80 Ohm
Weight
14.2 ounces
9.5 ounces
Choose the first if
- You want to block out ambient noise with active cancellation
- You need wireless freedom for travel or casual listening
- You prefer a rugged design with spatial audio features
Choose the second if
- You require an open-back design for natural soundstage imaging
- You are mixing or mastering and need distortion-free fidelity
- You want a lighter, serviceable headphone for long studio sessions
Verdict
The Marshall Monitor III ANC is the better choice if you prioritize noise cancellation and wireless convenience. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO suits professionals who need open-back acoustics and wired reliability for critical listening.
Marshall vs Beyerdynamic ANC Comparison
connection type
Edge: Marshall Monitor III ANC
The Marshall Monitor III ANC uses wireless connectivity, allowing you to move freely without cables. It supports 70 hours of playback with active noise cancellation enabled, or 100 hours without it. In contrast, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is a wired model. It connects via a 3-meter straight cable with a threaded 1/4-inch adapter for 1/8-inch jacks. This means you need a source device with a compatible jack or an adapter. If you prefer untethered listening and long battery life, the Marshall option is superior. If you want a reliable wired link with no charging needed, the Beyerdynamic wins.
noise control
Edge: Marshall Monitor III ANC
The Marshall Monitor III ANC features active noise cancellation with three adjustable levels. It also includes a transparency mode that lets in ambient sound. The technology continuously measures ambient noise to block unwanted sounds. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO has no active noise cancellation or electronic features. Its open-back design naturally leaks sound and lets outside noise in. This makes it unsuitable for noisy environments like airplanes or busy offices. For travelers or commuters who need to block distractions, the Marshall is the clear choice. For quiet studio use, the Beyerdynamic does not require such features.
back design
Edge: Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO utilizes an open-back design. This creates a natural soundstage and detailed spatial imaging, which is ideal for critical listening, mixing, and mastering. It reveals subtle audio nuances for accurate decisions. The Marshall Monitor III ANC does not specify an open-back design, implying a closed or semi-closed construction typical for noise-cancelling headphones. Closed designs isolate sound better but can feel more enclosed. If you prioritize a wide, airy soundstage for professional editing, the Beyerdynamic is better. If you need isolation and bass response, the Marshall is preferable.
weight and build
Edge: Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
The Marshall Monitor III ANC weighs 14.2 ounces and has a rugged, foldable design. It comes with a premium hard case and soft ear cushions for comfort. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is lighter at 9.5 ounces. It features a lightweight construction and soft, replaceable circumaural ear pads. The Beyerdynamic is also handcrafted in Germany with serviceable parts for longevity. While the Marshall offers a protective case and foldability, the Beyerdynamic is significantly lighter. For users who wear headphones for many hours, the lower weight of the Beyerdynamic may reduce fatigue.
sound features
Edge: Tie
The Marshall Monitor III ANC includes Dynamic Loudness to optimize treble, mids, and bass at every volume. It also introduces Soundstage spatial audio to create a wider, more immersive presence. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO focuses on pure fidelity with an extended frequency response of 5–35,000 Hz. It is designed as a true sonic magnifier for distortion-free audio. The Marshall adds digital enhancements and spatial effects. The Beyerdynamic offers a neutral, detailed reference sound. If you want enhanced bass and spatial immersion, choose Marshall. If you want accurate, uncolored audio for mixing, choose Beyerdynamic.
Which headphones match your workflow
Commuters wanting silence and portability
Our pick: Marshall Monitor III ANC
The Marshall Monitor III ANC provides 70 hours of wireless playtime with active noise cancellation. You can adjust three levels of noise cancellation or use Transparency mode. The foldable design and hard case make it easy to pack. You get freedom from cables while blocking out ambient noise during travel or noisy commutes.
Studio engineers needing accurate monitoring
Our pick: Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO features open-back design for a natural soundstage and detailed spatial imaging. The 80-ohm impedance suits professional studio outputs and home audio setups. You get a 5–35,000 Hz frequency response for distortion-free audio. The wired connection ensures zero latency for critical editing and mixing tasks.
Listeners prioritizing comfort and longevity
Our pick: Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO weighs only 9.5 ounces and features soft, replaceable circumaural ear pads. You can wear these lightweight headphones for prolonged sessions without fatigue. The handcrafted German engineering ensures durability. All parts are fully serviceable, offering ultimate longevity for your audio gear compared to sealed wireless alternatives.
Marshall Monitor III ANC
Best for: Long battery life and spatial audio
- Noise Control
- Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency
- Battery Life
- 70 hours (ANC), 100 hours
- Connectivity
- Wireless
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Spatial Audio
- Soundstage
- Features
- Active Noise Cancelling, Microphone, Active Noise Cancellation, Long Playtime
The Marshall Monitor III ANC are wireless over-ear headphones with active noise cancellation and transparency mode. They offer 70 hours of playtime with ANC on, or 100 hours without. The design includes a rugged, foldable build and soft ear cushions. Sound features Dynamic Loudness and a new Soundstage spatial audio mode. Weighing 14.2 ounces, they suit listeners who want long battery life and immersive audio.
- 70 hours of battery life with active noise cancellation
- Three levels of noise cancellation plus transparency mode
- Dynamic Loudness adjusts treble, mids, and bass
- Soundstage spatial audio for wider presence
- Foldable design with premium hard case
- Heavier at 14.2 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Standard size may not fit all head shapes
- Limited to two color options
- You need long battery life for travel
- You want adjustable noise cancellation levels
- You prefer a rugged, foldable build
- You prioritize lightweight comfort
- You need multiple color choices
- You want a compact, non-foldable design
Verdict: Marshall Monitor III ANC Wireless headphones deliver strong battery life and customizable noise cancellation. They fit listeners who value rugged design and immersive spatial audio.
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
Best for: studio mixing and critical listening
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing, Gaming
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 8.7 × 4.7 × 9.1 inches
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO (80 Ohm) is a wired, open-back over-ear headphone designed for studio mixing and critical listening. It features a 5–35,000 Hz frequency response and an 80-ohm impedance suitable for home audio and professional outputs. The 9.5-ounce build includes replaceable ear pads for comfort. You should choose this if you need detailed spatial imaging for editing, but you must accept the lack of wireless connectivity and noise isolation.
- 80-ohm impedance for versatile studio and home use
- Open-back design provides natural soundstage
- 5–35,000 Hz frequency response reveals audio details
- Replaceable circumaural ear pads for longevity
- Wired connection limits mobility
- Open-back design offers no passive noise isolation
- 9.5 ounces is heavier than the Marshall Monitor III
- You need accurate spatial imaging for mixing
- You prefer wired connections for studio work
- You want replaceable parts for long-term use
- You require active noise cancellation
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You want to block out external noise
Verdict: Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm is ideal for editors who prioritize soundstage accuracy over portability. It fits professionals who value serviceable parts and detailed audio reproduction.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Marshall Monitor III ANC | Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones |
|---|---|---|
| Noise Control | Active Noise Cancelling, Transparency | – |
| Battery Life | 70 hours (ANC), 100 hours | – |
| Connectivity | Wireless | Wired, 3.5 mm |
| Form Factor | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Spatial Audio | Soundstage | – |
| Back Design | – | Open-Back |
| Connection | Wireless | Wired |
| Fit | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Features | Active Noise Cancelling, Microphone, Active Noise Cancellation, Long Playtime | – |
| Use | Studio | Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing, Gaming |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | 6.1 × 2.76 × 8.66 inches | 8.7 × 4.7 × 9.1 inches |
| Weight | 14.2 ounces | 9.5 ounces |
| Size | Standard | 80 OHM |
| Model | 1006861 | DT 990 PRO-cr |
Frequently asked questions
Can the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO block out background noise?
No, it cannot. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is an open-back wired headphone. Open-back designs do not seal the ear, so they let outside sound in. They lack active noise cancellation hardware. You should choose the Marshall Monitor III ANC if you need to block ambient noise while commuting or working in loud environments.
Does the Marshall Monitor III ANC support spatial audio?
Yes, it does. The Marshall Monitor III ANC features customizable noise cancellation and spatial audio capabilities. This allows for an immersive listening experience. The wireless design adds to the convenience. It is a strong choice for listeners who value rugged design and immersive soundscapes over wired precision.
Which headphone is better for critical studio mixing?
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is better for critical mixing. It is designed for audiophiles and studio professionals who prioritize soundstage accuracy. The open-back design provides detailed audio reproduction. The Marshall Monitor III ANC focuses on wireless convenience and noise cancellation, which serves different needs than precise studio monitoring.
How heavy is the Marshall Monitor III ANC compared to the Beyerdynamic?
The Marshall Monitor III ANC weighs 14.2 ounces. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO weighs 9.5 ounces. The Beyerdynamic model is lighter. The Marshall headphones are larger, measuring 8.66 inches in height. You should consider the weight difference if you plan to wear the headphones for long periods during travel or studio sessions.
Do I need an amplifier for the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO?
You might need one. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO comes in an 80 Ohm version. Higher impedance headphones often require more power to reach full volume. The Marshall Monitor III ANC is wireless and self-powered. It does not require an external amplifier, making it easier to use with portable devices.
Is the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO wireless?
No, it is not. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO uses a wired connection. It does not have built-in batteries or Bluetooth. The Marshall Monitor III ANC offers wireless connectivity. You can move freely without cables when using the Marshall model, which is ideal for active use or commuting.