Music Connection recently had the opportunity to chat with Michael Boehringer, product manager at beyerdynamic, about the company’s latest innovation—the DT In-Ear Series. During our conversation, Michael shared insights into the design philosophy behind beyerdynamic’s new in-ear monitors.
Can you give me an overview of the beyerdynamic DT In-Ear Series?
Boehringer: Our goal with the DT In-Ear Series was to provide tailored solutions for a wide range of professional use cases. Each model is finely tuned for a specific application or tonal preferences. The beyerdynamic DT IE Series includes four specialized models, each tailored for distinct monitoring needs. The DT 70 IE offers a neutral, uncolored response ideal for mixing and critical listening. The DT 71 IE emphasizes low-end power and clarity, making it perfectfor drummers and bassists.
The DT 72 IE features a midrange boost to highlight vocals and guitars, while the DT 73 IE is finely tuned for classical instruments and keyboards, delivering articulate, natural detail. Together, these models give professionals a precise, purpose-built tool for every performance or studio scenario. By offering four clearly defined models, we make it easy for professionals to find the right sound and tool for their on-stage specific needs, all without compromise on build, comfort, or durability. At the heart of the series is the DT 70 IE which are designed for mixing and critical listening. The DT 70 features a linear, uncolored sound signature that was developed with the Fletcher-Munson curve in mind.
The Fletcher-Munson curves is an acoustic reference tool that illustrates how human hearing perceives different frequencies at varying loudness levels. At lower volumes, our ears are less sensitive
to bass and treble, which can cause music to sound unbalanced. These curves are essential in audio design, helping engineers create equipment that maintains a natural tonal balance across all listening levels.
What was the overall design philosophy behind the beyerdynamic DT In-Ear Series?
Boehringer: The DT In-Ear Series was designed to deliver professional-grade sound and outstanding comfort for both stage and studio use. Rather than relying on traditional multi-way balanced armature systems, we took a different route by developing the series around a dynamic driver.
Can you tell us a bit about beyerdynamic’s Tesla driver technology and how it has been integrated into the DT In-Ear Series?What benefits does it bring to in-ear monitoring applications?
Boehringer: At the core of the DT In-Ear Series is our TESLA.11 driver—a proprietary dynamic driver originally developed for our high-end Xe-lento line. Our TESLA.11 driver offers extremely low distortion—with a Total Harmonic Distortion (THD) of less than 0.2 percent at 500 Hz—re-sulting in highly accurate audio reproduction.
THD indicates how much unwanted harmonic content is added to the signal—so the lower the value, the cleaner and more faithful the sound. The compact size of the driver also allowed us to design a slimmer, more ergonomic housing that enhances both fit and passive isolation. The result is a series that meets the highest expectations of musicians and sound engineers alike. With its implementation in our DT series, we’re bringing that same premium sound performance to musicians and engineers. Handmade in Germany, the TESLA.11 offers several key advantages over traditional balanced armature setups: excellent resolution, impressive impulse fidelity, and extremely low distortion—measured at less than 0.2 percent THD at 500 Hz.
This results in a clean, highly detailed sound that lets professionals hear every nuance—essential for both live monitoring and critical studio work.
In a crowded IEM market, what do you feel sets the DT In-Ear Series apart from other in-ear monitors in its class, particularly for professional musicians and engineers?
Boehringer: We feel that what sets the DT In-Ear Series apart is a blend of cutting-edge technology, handmade German craftsmanship, real-world durability and an affordable price point. The TESLA.11 driver, once exclusive to our high-end consumer line, is now available to professionals in a form designed to meet the rigors of stage and studio. All models feature a high-quality MMCX connector system and are rigorously tested to tight tolerances. Additionally, the DT 70 IE, DT 72 IE, and DT 73 IE are IP68 certified—offering full protection against dust and even temporary submersion.
The DT 71 IE features IP65 certification, making it resistant to dust and water jets. These features are
combined to offer exceptional performance and reliability in any environment. Fit and comfort are critical for IEMs used onstage or during long studio sessions.
What ergonomic considerations went into the DT In-Ear Series’ design?
Boehringer: We understand that fit and comfort is just as important as sound quality, especially for long sessions and stage performances. Thanks to the compact size of the TESLA.11 driver, we were able to create a slimmer housing that fits more naturally in the ear canal. The shape was refined using hundreds of MRI-based ear impressions to ensure maximum comfort and a secure fit. This not only improves long-term wearability but also contributes to a more consistent listening experience and sound isolation of up to -39 dB.
Does the DT In-Ear Series feature a user-replaceable cable system, and if so, what type of connectors are utilized?
Boehringer: All of the DT In-Ear Series models feature a user-replaceable cable system using robust, gold-plated MMCX connectors. We chose MMCX over standard 2-pin connectors because of their superior stability and longevity, especially in the demanding conditions of live performance.
The included cable also minimizes noise when handling the cable and is built to stand up to the rigors of professional use.
What accessories are included with the DT In-Ear Series out of the box, and how much flexibility is offered in terms of ear tip fit and user customization?
Boehringer: Each model in the DT In-Ear Series comes with a full set of professional accessories to ensure comfort, durability, and seamless integration into any workflow. The kit includes five pairs of silicone ear tips, three pairs of ComplyTM memory foam tips, replaceable cerumen protection filters, a gold-plated 6.35 mm adapter, and a rugged carrying case.
This thoughtful package allows users to achieve a personalized fit, optimize sound isolation, and keep their gear safe. The beyerdynamic DT 70 IE Series of in-ear monitor are priced at $499.99 USD per model. Find out more at global.beyerdynamic.com/dt-ie-series.
