Beyerdynamic MMX 100 and MMX 150 Headset Review - Do Price Cuts Change Things?

Introduction

Hello everyone, it's Joe from Gatri Tech, and today we'll be diving into a detailed comparison of some older Beyerdynamic headsets, specifically the MMX 100, MMX 150, and the more recent MMX 200. Despite these models being older, recent price drops have potentially enhanced their value significantly, making it worthwhile to revisit how they stack up in the current market.

Introduction to the Models

The Beyerdynamic MMX series includes the MMX 100, MMX 150, and the wireless MMX 200. Initially, these headsets were launched at higher price points, but they have since seen considerable price reductions. The MMX 100 is a purely analog headset, the MMX 150 is a wired model with a built-in USB DAC, and the MMX 200 is the wireless version that originally retailed for $ 250 but is now available for $ 200.

Price Breakdown

• MMX 100 (Analog):

  • Original Price: $ 100
  • Beyerdynamic Website: $ 70
  • Amazon: $ 50

• MMX 150 (USB DAC):

  • Original Price: $ 150
  • Beyerdynamic Website: $ 100
  • Amazon: $ 80

• MMX 200 (Wireless):

  • Original Price: $ 250
  • Current Price: $ 200

Physical Features and Build Quality

MMX 100

The MMX 100 is purely analog, meaning it connects via a headphone jack. It includes a detachable cable with an in-line push button for mic control and a volume wheel. It comes with a standard TRRS combo jack cable, allowing it to be used with gaming controllers, laptops, and other devices. There’s also a Y-adapter cable that separates the headphone and mic signals for PC use, reducing cross-talk and providing clearer audio.

MMX 150

The MMX 150 includes a USB-C connection for digital audio. This model features a clickable volume wheel with tap-to-mute functionality, and it also includes an ambient mode to hear your surroundings. Like the MMX 100, it supports TRRS connections for broader compatibility with gaming consoles.

MMX 200

The MMX 200 is the wireless option with a USB-C dongle for connectivity. It features a power button, wireless mode switch, and a harder-to-spin volume wheel. This model retains similar build quality to the others, with aluminum forks and leatherette pads but is slightly lighter due to the wireless nature.

Comfort and Fit

Ear Pads and Clamp Force

All three headsets showcase similar designs with leatherette ear pads and memory foam padding. However, the MMX 100 has the most pronounced clamp force, which may cause discomfort during extended use. The MMX 150 has a slightly lighter clamp, while the MMX 200 is the most comfortable, thanks to its deeper ear pads and lighter clamp force.

Sound Quality and Microphone Performance

Objective Measurements

The Beyerdynamic MMX series headsets share a noticeable bass-forward signature, with mid-range and treble tuning closely adhering to the Harman curve. However, the strong bass shelf can tilt the overall sound profile, making it somewhat more immersive for single-player games but less competitive for FPS titles.

Channel Balance

Channel balance across the MMX series is generally excellent, though there may be slight variances, particularly with the MMX 150, skewing slightly to the left.

Microphone Quality

All models utilize the same high-quality microphone capsule, providing excellent voice clarity and sensitivity. However, the MMX 150 and MMX 200 might require volume adjustments to avoid overly loud outputs.

Subjective Sound Quality

Analog and DAC Examples

The MMX 100's performance heavily depends on the quality of the DAC it's connected to. With a good external DAC, it could potentially outshine the MMX 200. The MMX 150’s built-in DAC offers a cleaner, consistent audio experience without needing additional equipment.

Wireless Performance

The MMX 200, despite its wireless convenience, lacks some of the tactile bass quality and full sound depth potentially due to wireless compression. This makes the wired MMX 150 sound slightly better in direct comparison.

Conclusion

Overall, the significant price drops have made the MMX 100 and MMX 150 more competitive. At $ 50, the MMX 100 is now a steal, though potential comfort issues and cable reliability need to be considered. The MMX 150’s built-in DAC at $ 80 to $ 100 offers a balanced proposition. For those needing wireless functionality, the MMX 200 provides solid performance but isn’t necessarily the best purely in terms of sound quality.

Keywords

• Beyerdynamic
• MMX 100
• MMX 150
• MMX 200
• Wireless Headset
• USB DAC
• Analog Headset
• Sound Quality
• Comfort
• Microphone Performance
• Price Reduction

FAQ

What are the main differences between the MMX 100, MMX 150, and MMX 200?

• The MMX 100 is purely analog with a 3.5mm headphone jack, the MMX 150 includes a USB DAC for digital audio, and the MMX 200 is a wireless model with a USB-C dongle.

Which headset offers the best microphone quality?

• All three models feature the same microphone capsule and provide excellent voice clarity. However, they might require volume adjustments, particularly the MMX 150 and MMX 200.

How do the price reductions affect the value of these headsets?

• The significant price drops make the MMX 100 a great value at $ 50, improving its competitiveness in the market. The MMX 150's built-in DAC at lower prices also enhances its value proposition.

Are the MMX series headsets comfortable for long usage?

• The MMX 200 is the most comfortable due to lighter clamp force and deeper ear pads. The MMX 100 and MMX 150 have more pronounced clamp force, which could cause discomfort over extended periods.

What are the build quality concerns?

• Some users have reported issues with cable connections in the analog and USB models. Additionally, the MMX 100 cable may experience micronics, causing noise from cable movement to be audible.

Which headset is best for competitive gaming?

• The MMX 150, with some EQ adjustments, may offer a good balance for competitive gaming. However, alternatives like the SteelSeries Nova 1 might provide better comfort and competitive tuning in the lower price range.

By revisiting these headsets in the context of recent price drops, their value proposition changes significantly, and understanding these differences can help make an informed buying decision.