It seems that this review just got about 8% easier as this pair of pairs of headphones seem to be somewhat identical apart from the cup, which bears their respective company branding. I've checked the specs and everything tallies, even down to the unique Nickel plated plugs. So unless something else comes up that radically sets them apart, consider them to be the same thing.




In The Box: The statutory pouch and screw fit adaptor, but unlike the rest of the group, these are Nickel plated. I really don't think it makes that much difference and is actually a better match.



Looks: These fall very much into the design rulebook category - Black and Silver in just the right amount and separation, and having a very chunky appeal too. Although essentially being the same, the Audio Technica cup is nicely understated, unlike the Denon which has the logo emblazoned in all its shiny Chrome glory.



Build Quality: Very good. The chunky look seems to be reflected in the ruggedness too. Being the fairly regular design that it is, the only weak spot seems to be the swivel mechanism, that like all the others of this type feels like an overly aggressive shove into your bag might see them break. Thankfully, these have 180° swivels, so they're more likely to turn than snap. But it's a fixed cable, so if it goes, you're into a fresh pair of cans. And given the price, it's something to consider.



Sound Quality: 53mm drivers and the widest frequency range ensures that the sound from these is right up there with the best. Denon claim that bass response is better on theirs, and I would tend to agree. But perhaps this is a placebo effect because my brain thinks it might be. The difference is probably best described as minimal, but the sound is really good from both nonetheless.



Isolation: As over-ear headphones, the isolation does depend on the ability of the ear piece to seal against your head. In this respect, the Audio Technicas and Denons do a good job.



Comfort and Stability: No real surprises here. Both stay glued to your head pretty well. But because of the 180° swivels, they tend to fit your head a little better than others. And because of this swivel, pushing to one ear in a hurry isn't an issue wither.

Compactness: Both push up into the head band and fit neatly into your DJ baggage.



Value for money: This is where these headphone differ slightly. To all intents and purposes, these are much the same, but Denon are more widely available. That said, the Denons average at £20/$40 more expensive. I honestly can't pick out a major difference, so in this respect I'd have to pick the Audio Technicas. And from a VFM point of view, the build and sound quality, paired with the 180° swivel makes either of these a solid investment - provided the cable doesn't break.

Summary

Having used both at length for some time, the quality is clear. Either pair will serve you well. The build is good, sound quality top notch and isolation is ideal. I don't like fixed cables so that's a minus mark for me. But given the price difference, the Audio Technicas seem to be the better bet. But either pair are great DJ headphones.

Hype: Build quality - sound quality - 180° swivel
Gripe: Fixed cable