beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO Studio Headphones (250 Ohm, Black) | Open Back, Over Ear, Wired Professional Mixing, Music Production, Editing, Audiophile, Black Velour Ear Pads
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Availability:
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Monday, Aug 10
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Size: 250 OHM
Color: Black (Limited Edition)
Features
- Wide Open Sound: Open-back studio headphones for critical listening and professional editing deliver astoundingly precise audio clarity with a wide, natural soundstage.
- Ultimate comfort for extended sessions: Experience luxurious listening pleasure with these open-back studio headphones featuring soft, circumaural, and replaceable ear pads
- KNOW YOUR OHMS: 250 is ideal for pro studio interfaces, dedicated headphone amps, home hi-fi, and audiophile systems.
- Over-ear, open-back, wired headphones with circumaural (around-ear) design, firm yet comfortable professional headband pressure
- Handcrafted in Germany: Traditional craftsmanship with modern excellence: Designed and built by a trusted legacy brand excelling for more than 100 years.
Description
For decades, our PRO headphones have set the benchmark in professional recording studios worldwide. They are the first choice for artists, creators and audio experts, and have come to be regarded as the reference standard. Our wide range of products includes headphones for all applications, such as recording, mixing and mastering, as well as for podcasting and broadcasting. The only question is: what are the best headphones for you? The Reference for the Studio: The wide stereo image and balanced, transparent sound makes the DT 990 PRO a reliable reference point in the studio and a trusted companion for producers and audio engineers. The DT 990 PRO is a reliable tool for studio monitoring, mixing and mastering, as the highly sensitive transducers ensure the smallest adjustments in panning, EQ or dynamics can be easily heard. Spacious, Open Design: With its open design, the DT 990 PRO has an airy, spacious sound with a sense of depth and ambiance that complements room acoustics captured in recordings. The controlled bass and enhanced treble ensure an exceptionally detailed frequency response. The low frequencies are precise and powerful, without being overbearing, while top end is clear and very present without sounding shrill. Total Comfort and One-Sided Cable: The sturdy steel headband gives the headset a secure fit. Soft, adjustable ear cups contribute to great wearing comfort for extended periods. The cable, which is attached on just one side, accommodates frequent adjustment and removal of the DT 990 PROwithout cable tangles. The 80 Ohm comes with a straight cable (not coiled like the 250 ohm). Its extra light weight construction makes it very easy to wear. Specifications:
Brand: beyerdynamic
Color: Black (Limited Edition)
Ear Placement: Over Ear
Form Factor: Over Ear
Impedance: 250 ohm
Brand Name: beyerdynamic
Model Number: 718033
Model Name: DT 990 PRO
Built-In Media: Black Drawstring Bag, Jack Adapter 1/8" to 1/4", T 990 PRO BLACK EDITION
Age Range Description: Adult
Warranty Description: 2-year Beyerdynamic Warranty
Number of Items: 1
Series Number: 990
Global Trade Identification Number: 61
Manufacturer: beyerdynamic
Item Type Name: Headphones
Headphones Ear Placement: Over Ear
Headphone Folding Features: Over Ear
Earpiece Shape: Circumaural (Round)
Control Method: Push Button
Item Weight: 1.2 pounds
Unit Count: 1 Count
Impedance: 250 ohm
Noise Control: None
Sensitivity: 96 db
Audio Driver Type: Dynamic Driver
Frequency Range: 5 Hz - 35,000 Hz
Enclosure Material: Plastic, Steel, Velour
Specific Uses For Product: Entertainment, Gaming, Professional
Antenna Location: Music
Compatible Devices: Universal
Cable Features: Straight
Water Resistance Level: Not Water Resistant
Additional Features: Black Velour Ear Pads, Over Ear, Straight Cord
Headphone Jack: 3.5 mm (1/8") Jack, 6.35 mm (1/4") Jack
Connectivity Technology: Wired
Wireless Technology: Wired
Color: Black (Limited Edition)
Style Name: Over Ear
Carrying Case Color: Black
Theme: Music
Frequently asked questions
If you place your order now, the estimated arrival date for this product is:
Monday, Aug 10
Yes, absolutely! You may return this product for a full refund within 30 days of receiving it.
To initiate a return, please visit our Returns Center.
View our full returns policy here.
To initiate a return, please visit our Returns Center.
View our full returns policy here.
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Top Amazon Reviews
Size: 250 OHM
Color: Gray
This was, most certainly, not an impulse buy on my part but rather the result of a very long search for a good all-around open-back headphone, light and comfortable, with near reference sound quality (yet not overly analytical) and a reasonable price. Was that too much to ask for? Apparently not, since that search led me here: to the Beyerdynamic DT990-Pro-250. Now, for those who are curious (as I was) about that extra "AMS" label as seen here on this Amazon listing: the AMS stands for "American Music and Sound" - this is the US pro-audio distributor of Beyerdynamic. So the AMS is just an unnecessary marketing label - there is just one type of DT990-Pro, which is this one, regardless whether you buy it in North-America, Europe, Asia, etc. That aside, let me start off with the build quality: The DT990-Pro is made entirely of ABS plastic, save for the headband and the forks holding the cans, which are made of metal (aluminum, I'd say, from the weight of it). The head-band is covered with a soft black plastic material held in place by four small clasp-buttons. The DT990-Pro is surprisingly light and extremely comfortable (in this it rivals the other "most-comfortable" headphones I have here, the Sennheiser HD-598). Overall I'd rate the build quality as top-notch, save for the somewhat under-designed cable strain relief (located on the left can). The cable is about 3m log, it is coiled and it ends with a 1/8in jack. A screw-on 1/4in jack is also provided. The strain-relief of the cable at the can attachment point seems (to me) a little too small because the coiled cable is very heavy and with use (given sufficient time) I can see it failing and leading to cable/connectivity issues. Also (this is just a minor personal quibble) the silver velour pads may seem dirty depending on how the light hits them (but again, no big deal, especially since black-velour or leather pads for it are available on Amazon or elsewhere). On to sound quality: Computer/audio gear used during my listening tests: MacBook-Pro w/ Mac OS X 10.6.8 XMOS USB 2.0 Audio Reference Design Asynchronous DAC (44.1-192kHz/24bit), HiFiMeDIY Sabre USB DAC (32-96kHz/24bit), Matrix M-Stage Headphone Amp, FiiO E12-Mont Blanc Headphone Amp Beyerdynamic DT990-Pro Open Headphones (250 ohm, 96dB/mW) Audio-Technica ATH-A900 closed-back headphones (40 ohm, 101dB/mW), Superlux HD-681 semi-open headphones (32 ohm, 98dB/mW), and Sennheiser HD-598 open headphones (50 ohm, 100dB/mW). Playback software: Audacity, iTunes, VLC Source quality: standard CD 44.1kHz/16bit, and native HD 88.2-96kHz/24bit Audio cables: 3.5mm to RCA (3ft), and RCA-to-RCA (3ft), AUVIO and Monoprice brands The Sound (overall conclusion both DACs/HP-Amps): Good dynamics, detail and clarity, well staged and with good imaging. In terms of frequency response these headphones are tuned such as to emphasize/boost the low and high ends. Perhaps the best way to summarize the DT990-Pro sound by comparison with the other three headphones I have here would be this: The DT990-Pro nearly matches the Superlux HD681 in bass impact without sacrificing dynamics, it easily matches the Sennheiser HD598 in mid-range sparkle, staging, and imaging, and gives the Audio-Technica ATH-A900 a good run for the money in terms of highs extension. The closest of my other headphones in terms of overall SQ would be the Sennheiser HD598. However, despite the slightly more neutral presentation of the Sennheiser's, I find the DT990-Pro sound far more preferable. The DT990-Pro has a much better low end, and has smoother, more extended highs without that slight veil characteristic to Sennheiser headphones (clearly the Sennheiser HD-598 are decent cans but somehow I could never get too excited about their sound, hence my search for a different pair of open-back headphones). Also, the DT990-Pro manages to present the high end with what I'd call more "precision" than the ATH-A900 without sounding as grainy, and with just as much aplomb as the Superlux without sounding as (excessively) bright. Note: The DT990-Pro are both high impedance (250ohm) and relatively less efficient than the other cans I mentioned here (they only manage 96dB/mW) and thus amping is a must for anyone wishing to get the most out of them. For instance, my iPod Shuffle 1-st Gen (max output: 0.57Vrms) cannot drive them to any reasonable listening level (without severe clipping) and only manages a lifeless, distorted, garbled presentation, while the MacBook-Pro sound card (1.4Vrms) drives them to sufficiently loud levels but with pretty obvious distortions (for an overall harsh, fatiguing presentation.) Based on my experience with such sources I would not recommend these cans for use with portable devices without a proper amp. Also to note: the DT990-Pro do require at least 8-10hr of initial break-in to start sounding right (before that the sound is overly bassy, and somewhat unfocused/cloudy). As of this writing I have 30-35hrs on it and for sound quality I'd break things out like this: Bass Extension: 6/10 Bass Impact: 7/10 Bass Texture: 7/10 (solid) Mids Quality: 7.5/10 Highs Extension: 8.5/10 Highs Quality: 8/10 (vivid) Highs Texture: 7.5/10 (soft) Detail/Transparency: 8/10 (clear) Dynamics: 8.5/10 (natural) Soundstage: 8/10 Imaging: 7/10 Other: Isolation: 2/10 (open design) Comfort: 9/10 Design/Aesthetics: 9/10 (classic Beyerdynamic design) Build quality: 9/10 Portability: 5/10 (fairly large size) Improvement w/ Amplification: 8.5/10 (Note: Amping is recommended!) Value at MSRP: (9/10) [I gave it a 9/10 here only because, by comparison, the $30 Superlux HD681 is still a better bang for the buck!] To conclude, the Beyerdynamic DT990-Pro are near reference headphones which sacrifice some neutrality for the sake of a more natural sounding, or rather, a more fleshed-out acoustic presentation. As far as I'm concerned, it suffices to say that the DT990-Pro is the only headphone I have here that I can listen to (with any kind of music) without EQ and not feel that I might be missing something (and that, I think, says a lot). All in all, a remarkable offering from Beyerdynamic, highly recommended!
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Reviewed in the United States on July 2, 2013 by SSD
Size: 250 OHM
Color: Gray
I finally decided to take the plunge into a really nice set of headphones - my nicest set previously was a set of $60 Sennheiser HD 429's. While those were decent, they didn't come anywhere close to some of the high end cans that I had tried and I got tired of being disappointed every time I listened to music or watched a movie with them. After months of shopping around online and reading reviews I decided to visit a music store to try some out. After all my due diligence I had settled on the Audio-Technica ATH-M50S but I didn't buy them at the store since I knew I could get them online for cheaper. Well, when I went to buy them here on Amazon I read through a few reviews and saw Beyerdynamics mentioned over and over again, and after reading a lot about them I decided that I wanted to spend a few more bucks and try out the DT-990 Pro 250 Ohm. It was a bit of a risk since I hadn't tried them in person but knew I could return them if not happy with them. Well, they showed up today - in fact I'm listening to them right now - and let me just say that as soon as I finish this review I'm going to buy another pair for my wife. Bottom line: WOW! The sound that these headphones produce is the most open, deep, detailed, crystal clear sound that I have ever heard. I was a bit concerned about the 250ohm rating at first because I didn't know if my gear would be able to drive them without an amp, but both my PC and Oknyo receiver can power them with no problem. I do have to crank it to about 80% of max volume on my PC to get the sound level that I want, so I'll still probably invest in an amp to be able to drive them at a lower level for cleaner sound. I also want to be able to use them with my wife in the theater room after the kids have gone to bed and I'll need a multi-channel amp to do that. But holy cow these things have low hitting bass, the midrange is tight and crystal clear, and the highs are powerful but not overpowering. They are very well balanced. So far I've listened to some rap/hip-hop, metal, emo, classical, and even opera, and these things shine with any genre! I am so excited to watch a movie them. I really like the open back and I think that'll be nice when watching a movie with the wife so we can still talk to each other without having to completely remove the headphones. These are worth every penny if you're in the market for a nice high-end set of headphones. The only drawback is that you can clearly hear everything that you're listening to on the outside due to the open back, and I imagine they won't block outside noise very well, but I just plan to use them at home in a quiet environment like my office or theater room where it won't matter if they leak a little sound and there won't be any ambient noise to worry about. P.S. Forgot to talk about comfort, which is OFF THE CHARTS! They a have nice furry covers which are extremely comfortable, the clamping pressure isn't too tight, and I FINALLY found a set of cans that has openings big enough to fit my huge ears! With the M50S that I was going to buy my ears hurt after demoing them for about 20 minutes, and the clamping pressure was pretty tight but I read you can stretch them out to improve that. But I've been wearing these straight out of the box for nearly 2 hours now and just took them off and I don't even feel like I've been wearing anything. That is so much better than the normal 5-10 minutes of aching ears after taking off pretty much any other set of headphones that I have ever used. So if you have large ears or a big head these are perfect for you!
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Reviewed in the United States on January 9, 2014 by J.L.
Size: 250 OHM
Color: Gray
I am what you might call a "budget audiophile." I care deeply about sound quality, but I simply can't afford the kind of system I would want. Instead, I own a few pairs of high quality headphones, store my music in the Apple Lossless (ALAC) format, and play everything through a quality external DAC and headphone amp, the (unfortunately discontinued) Nuforce Icon HD. I was hoping that the DT-990-Pro would combine the best features of the Sennheiser HD 598 and the Audio-Technica ATH-M50, and that's more or less exactly what it does. Let me explain. About 50-60% of my music library is hard rock and heavy metal (everything from Black Sabbath, Deep Purple, and Guns N' Roses to Metallica and Pantera to extreme death and black metal like Suffocation, Nile, Immortal, etc.). Before I bought the DT-990-Pro, I owned two pairs of headphones, the HD 598 and the ATH-M50. The HD 598 dominates the M50 in almost every respect that audiophiles care about: significantly more clarity and detail, a wider and deeper soundstage, much better instrument separation, etc. Moreover, the 598 is known for its "laid back" presentation: the lower frequencies are recessed relative to the M50, and the higher frequencies sound "rounded out," so you don't get any booming bass or sharp (and possibly fatiguing) sibilance. Because of this, the HD 598 is ideal for recreational listening of jazz, classical, and lighter music that emphasizes clean vocals (I'm a big Fiona Apple fan, for example, and the HD 598 remains my go-to for that kind of music). However, with such a laid back presentation, it is suboptimal for hard rock and metal. With the 598, you don't get heavy and pronounced bass tones, the sharp "THWAP!" of the kick drum, and guitar solos that really soar above the music; in general it's just too smooth and wimpy for that kind of music. For this reason, I found myself reaching for the M50 whenever I wanted to listen to rock and metal, but I hated making the sacrifice in sound quality. Enter the DT-990-Pro. Some reviewers have complained about its relatively pronounced lows and highs, but in my opinion, that is precisely what makes it excellent for harder rock (as well as hip hop and electronic music). With the DT-990-Pro, you get a clarity and soundstage comparable to the HD 598--the DT-990-Pro is arguably slightly more accurate than the HD 598, especially at higher frequencies, but the HD 598 has more soundstage--combined with the "kick" of the M50. I no longer have to make any kind of tradeoff when I listen to Slayer and Testament. Now, these headphones are at the same time very versatile, and suit a wide variety of music. I am impressed by how good they sound no matter what I throw at them: Brahms, Dvorak, John Coltrane, Charles Mingus, Ornette Coleman, Hendrix, Pink Floyd, Depeche Mode, Aimee Mann, Radiohead, the Wu-Tang Clan. So do not get the impression that these are "specialty" headphones suitable only for rock and metal. Far from it. As other reviewers have already noted, the DT-990-Pro is very, very comfortable--indeed the most comfortable headphones I have ever worn. A word of advice: at 250 Ohms of impedance, it does require a headphone amp to be driven properly and produce sufficient volume. If you plan on listening directly through a laptop or portable music device, I recommend the 32 Ohm "Premium" model. Given its excellent sound and versatility, the DT-990-Pro may be the best headphone in its price range.
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Reviewed in the United States on January 20, 2015 by James Bondarchuk
Size: 250 OHM
Color: Gray
I’ve been using the DT 990 Pro headset for a while now, and overall it’s one of the best audio experiences I’ve had—especially for the price. Sound Quality: This is where it really shines. The audio is super clear with a wide soundstage, which makes a huge difference for gaming and music. You can hear footsteps and directional cues way better than with typical headsets. The bass is present but not overwhelming, and the highs are very crisp (sometimes a little too crisp depending on the track). Comfort: Extremely comfortable. The velour ear pads are soft and breathable, and I can wear them for hours without any discomfort. The clamping force is just right—not too tight, not too loose. Build Quality: Feels solid and durable. Definitely built to last. The cable is attached (not detachable), which might be a downside for some people, but it hasn’t been an issue for me. Things to Consider: • These are open-back, so sound leaks in and out. Not ideal if you’re in a noisy space or don’t want others hearing your audio. • They don’t have a built-in mic, so you’ll need a separate one for gaming or calls. • Depending on the version (like 250 ohm), you may need an amp to get the best performance. Final Thoughts: If you care about sound quality and comfort, these are absolutely worth it. Just make sure you understand the open-back design and setup requirements before buying. Verdict: Amazing for gaming, music, and long sessions—just not for noisy environments or plug-and-play simplicity.
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Reviewed in the United States on April 6, 2026 by Beau Bidwell
Size: 250 OHM
Color: Gray
BeyerDynamic DT 990 PRO bought Aug 26 2014, 1 month ago, $175 US Sennheiser HD 560 ovation II bought March 23 1994, about 20 yrs ago, $350 CDN ($330 US). I wanted a replacement headphone for my HD 560 (ovation II), which has reached the end of its life cycle. I wanted one that would be cheaper and sound as good as the HD 560 once did. It must be comfortable for continuous hours of use. I'm 50 and I compose, mix and master my own tunes using a midi controller keyboard and VSTs. I decided on the DT 990 PRO. At $175 on Amazon US they were in my price range, but at double the price on Amazon Canada they were not, which is why it can pay to shop Amazon US. First, the claims. Sennheiser writes in its manual "Audiophile quality 'open-aire' stereo headphone considered by many to be among the finest in the world." For 1994, I agree. BeyerDynamic writes "The weight of the diaphram and moving coil of this headphone is approx. 20% compared to other current models. As a result, the DT 990 PRO offers similar pulse characteristics as electrostatic headphones." Hmm. My concern is they don't say if the reduced weight would shorten the diaphram's lifespan. My guess is yes, or why would they leave this out? Something to consider before buying. Next, the specs. Both are circumaural. HD 560: 14-35KHz 10 dB, 300 Ohms, 200 mW power, 94 dB, <0.2% THD, 2.5N headband pressure, 210g. DT 990 PRO: 5-35KHz, 250 Ohms, 100 mW power, 96 dB, <0.2% THD, 3.5N pressure, 270g (box says 250g). With my (unreliable?) fish scale, I weighed the HD 560 at 170g and DT 990 PRO at 190g. Half the mW power means the DT 990 PRO can't take as much abuse as the HD 560. Again, something to consider before buying. The comfort level. The DT 990 PRO makes the top of my head tender after hours of use. Unacceptable, so I unbuttoned and removed the headband wrapper and replaced it with a patch of felt. This makes the headphones feel/seem lighter, reduces pressure around the ears, and I can use them for hours without much discomfort. But it does appear to change the sound quality very slightly. Because of this I would have given it a lower 3 rating, if it weren't for the sound... The sound. Elite. I knew the HD 560 was lacking in bass, even when I bought them. The DT 990 PRO adds a lot of bass; almost too much, and throughout the frequency spectrum. This has the effect of increasing presence and bringing out subleties everywhere that are lost with the HD 560. Highs and mids are lowered, and bass goes down into the subs with clarity and power. However, the sound stage is much wider, making it harder to locate the pan positions of instruments. For example, with the HD 560's small sound stage, it's easy to say "the trumpet is 20 deg to left of center". With the DT 990 PRO it's not as easy. The DT 990 PRO's highs, mids and bass are exceptionally clear and nuanced, but my HD 560 has had 20 years of heavy use and abuse, invalidating a real sound comparison quality-wise. I can say this: play Lisa Kelly on my HD 560 and she sounds perfect, clear, effervescent, and blends nicely with the music. Play her on the DT 990 PRO and she's singing right in front of me, with a naturally slight tremolo in her sound. Almost creepy. I think that's due to the added bass power and wider sound stage. The negatives. I wear glasses and they squeak against the earpads. Adjusting my glasses forward a bit removes the squeak. For some reason, compared to the DT 990, the PRO bends the earcup extenders to fit inside the headband wrapper. Because the cups can rotate left/right, the extenders tend to catch and snap hard against the metal headband, making an awfully loud click in my ears when I put them on. Again, unacceptable for $175 headphones (now $200). To fix this, unbutton the headband wrapper and forcefully bend the extenders until they're straight, away from the metal headband and wrapper. BeyerDynamic says all parts are replaceable, yet the headphone cord doesn't detach from the earcup. This can be good, as my HD 560 frequently shorts at the earcup connectors. I hate the small, flimsy custom connectors on the HD 560. But it's also bad - I could unplug and replace the HD 560 cord (3 times!). I wonder how to replace the cord on the DT 990 PRO when it goes? A DIY task? I'm using a Pyle Pro PHA40 amp rated at 80 Ohms. An amp makes a difference, but I think the DT 990 PRO needs a good, matching rated amp to get the most out of it. Some reviewers have complained of ear fatigue after prolonged use. The manual does recommend a lower listening volume. As for lack of bass; this is false. There is more than enough bass, when amped. Despite the heavier weight, negatives, and my headband and extender fixes, I'm happy with my purchase, and it's a worthy successor in sound to my HD 560. But, I can only hope it will last 20 years, like my HD 560 ovation II did. (PS: my HD 560 were made in Ireland not Germany, DT 990 PRO are made in Germany. Two awesome countries!) YK
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Reviewed in the United States on September 24, 2014 by ykaccount
Size: 250 OHM
Color: Gray
Well, I once hated headphones but these phones are changing my mind. Why did I hate headphones? First of all, headphones are uncomfortable. They're heavy, hot and clamp your head like a vise. These are none of the above. The DT-990 Pro 250 is light in weight with soft velour ear cups. Since they don't have plastic ear cups that induce sweating, they don't feel hot. The headband is tight enough but not too tight on my head (hat size 7 1/2). It's a bit astonishing to me that these headphones feel as good as they do. Another reason I hated headphones was the boxy sound that seems to emanate from the center of my skull. A bit of research indicated to me that this condition is more likely to occur when using closed back headphones. The DT-990 Pro 250 is an open back design. The soundstage is broad. Maybe not as broad as listening in a well laid-out room with precisely placed and designed speakers but the soundstage is open and broad enough for me to distinguish individual musical instruments and their position in reference to the overall musical program. Again, I'm astonished at the openness of the sound field. Finally, I hated headphones for the reason many others like them--the isolation involved. I know there are other types of headphones available today that allow outside sounds to be heard but the only phones I had ever used in the past were those that tried to shut me off from the outside world. Sometimes, being isolated is good. But I prefer to be aware of what's happening around me. The DT-990 Pro 250 headphones allow in enough environmental sounds to keep me connected but not enough to be distracting. I want to know if the phone rings, someone knocks at the door, the dog barks or Mr. Murderous Home Invader is coming through the bedroom window. I've only had these headphones for one day. From what I've read on Amazon and on other websites, the sound of these phones will improve as they "burn in". I've witnessed this sound improvement with time and use happening with stereo speaker systems and with two SACD players so I know it's possible. But even without the break-in period, the DT-990 phones sound good to me. Some reviewers complain of the mid-bass being overly boosted and the treble being too prominent. I don't have golden ears but I don't find these characteristics present. The design of the phones does color the musical programming somewhat but, in my opinion, this adds a little punch without going so far as to be obtrusive. When the UPS guy delivered my package yesterday, I was listening to John Hiatt's "Dirty Jeans and Mudslide Hymns" CD. It has typical bass heavy production, however, the headphones never sounded boomy at all and I could pick up details in the recording I had never noticed. Since classical music is where I listen most closely, I then put on the RCA Living Stereo SACD of the Boston Pops doing "Gaite Parisenne". There's lots of high frequency sounds on this recording but I never noticed any irritating, piercing treble out of the headphones. Next I played another RCA Living Stereo SACD, Fritz Reiner conducting the Chicago Symphony in Dvorak's Symphony No. 9. This is a superb full orchestra recording. Again, I felt astonished at the details coming out in this CD through these headphones. Today, I've listened to selections from Arthur Rubenstein's Chopin CD box set and Martha Argerich's EMI concerto box set. The phones can pick up too much detail at times--I could detect foot tapping and breathing during one of the live Argerich performances. But the pianos always sound natural, lively and forward if slightly lacking in warmth at times. I expect "warmth" will develop with continued use. I've also plugged the DT-990's into my Kindle Fire HD tablet and listened to parts of the MP3 of Nicola Benedetti's "Fantasie" compilation. I know many feel MP3 is not true high fidelity, inferior to other downloadable formats as well as CDs. Still, it's the direction recorded music is headed today and it can be entirely satisfying and enjoyable, especially when one listens with the DT-990s. Ms. Benedetti's "Lark Ascending" sounds every bit as good to me on the MP3 through these headphones as it does from the original CD played over my B&W home speakers. Time will tell and many things can occur. If I can remember, I will update this review over time with more on how these phones break in and how they perform long term. UPDATE, July 6, 2013: Well, those who said the phones would "burn in" knew what they were talking about. I've barely used my home speakers since taking possession of these headphones in May and the sound has improved significantly. They have definitely developed that "warmth" I was hoping for. I enjoy listening to music more every time I use them. There is one point I do dislike about these phones after extended use and familiarity with them. They are not very aesthetically pleasing to my eye. The brown plastic grid and white lettering on the exterior ear pieces of the Pro model really look kind of cheap and Mickey Mouse. I guess it's a style that some might like but I'm not exactly joyous about it. The other DT-990 models look a lot better, however, they cost considerably more and they are said to sound the same. For the price difference, I would still buy the Pro model. Can't see them when I'm wearing them anyway.
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Reviewed in the United States on May 22, 2013 by A photographer
Size: 250 OHM
Color: Gray
First of all, here's my wannabe audiophile setup: Fiio E17K DAC, Apple Iphone 4S or Lenovo E530 laptop. I use primarily Flac high quality audio files on the laptop and convert them to .M4A files for the iPhone. Personally, I can tell a huge difference between these types versus MP3's. Anyway, I just returned a new pair of $300 PSB M4U after being totally unimpressed. I have $60 Yamaha RH5MA and $160 Audio Technica ATH M-50's to compare with these DT-990's. These are the 250 Ohm version and they will need a good amplifier to push them if you like to listen to your music loudly. I do and even my E-17K DAC did not give me as much volume as I would like when I really rock out. Other than that, I absolutely adore these BeyerDynamics. From what I can tell, these are identical in sound and quality to the much more expensive "Premium" model, these are the AMS DT-990 Pro series. They are robust and extremely comfortable, much more comfortable than the PSB's and M-50's and even better than the RH5MA's. The PSB M4U's have serious quality control issues, both metal covers on the headband broke and fell off within three days. Additionally, one of the audio cables did not have a left channel. These DT-990's will make you feel like the Lobot character on the original Star Wars (Cloud City, Lando's assistant) but they are like holding a tiny kitten lightly to your ears as far as comfort. The adjustment stays adjusted, it does not slide up and down like most earphones. Sound is the most important aspect of earphones, right? These have superb sound right out of the box. While I found the PSB M4U's to have no better soundstage than the M-50's or even the $60 Yamahas, the DT-990's have a clarity that surpasses the others by a long way. I really like my other headphones, those RH5MA's are awesome for their price and the M-50's were worth the additional price but these cans have more clarity, a wider stage, a generally warmer feel than the others. I have about 200 hours on the RH5MA and M-50's and had about 40 on the PSB M4U's, the DT-990's had better sound than any without any burn-in period. Unless the sound actually gets worse as I continue to use these, I have very high expectations. So far, I have around 20 hours using them and they are fantastic. What the DT-990's do not have is a huge amount of bass; plenty for me when I listen to Van Halen, Led Zep, Fleetwood Mac but if you're into dance music, you may want more. The highs and mids are terrific to me, every instrument is clear and realistic, the vocals are precise and I haven't had the painful highs that I had in the others. Of course, I need to get some more amplifier under these to really know how they will sound at high volume. I have never had the opportunity to listen to super premium headphones like the BeyerDynamic Tesla, Sennheiser HD 800 or Grado PS-1000 so understand that my experience is with headphones $300 and under. If anybody wants to send me a free pair of Tesla or HD-800, just let me know. As I save up for my next step up to over $500, I am confident that I will be a very happy camper during the wait.
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Reviewed in the United States on June 19, 2013 by Blind Dad
Size: 250 OHM
Color: Gray
I will post what I posted on Head-Fi. Before I get to the review I should add that this has not been burned in yet so this is an impression of the initial sound. I should also add I listen to mostly pop, but also bass heavy music as well as other genres. The term audiophile basshead would best fit me and my sound signature taste. Equipment: - FiiO E12 amplifier - Behringer UCA222 DAC - ViPER4Windows audio software Comfort: You'll have to try them on to really appreciate their comfort. The revviews say there is a heavy clamping force but I beg to differ...it's quite low and enough to the point where it stays on your head and is hardly noticeable. The earpads are very soft and have a ridonkulous amount of cushion to them, they're like pillows and they engulf my ears which is nice. 11/10, far more comfortable than my electrowaves with DT770EVB earpads. Sound: Bass - Not as strong as open cans, and not nearly as strong as all of the reviews claim...but still strong for open cans. These do have bass, don't get me wrong...but not basshead pleasing without EQing and adjusting other bass related settings. Once everything is adjusted properly, it can provide some nice bass, but it still lacks a bit in quantity. The quality is quite good though, although like one review I came across said, it does sacrifice quantity for quality. It was a bit difficult finding the right settings, but I will definitely post a picture of those below for insight. I also did find the right driver to rattle, it is probably a hair, but it has not gone away yet...will have to figure out how to fix that. 9/10 Mids - I am not too concerned about the mids, and haven't had cans that are good with mids...so I cannot say much here. I will say, and take this with a grain of salt considering my situation, that the vocals of songs were stunning. I haven't heard vocals like that from anything and am very impressed. Some said that the mids were a bit recessed...I would agree if the bass is set high enough, it can definitely overpower the mids if that is the case. I would disagree when it comes to the vocals though, they were right up front regardless of the bass. 9/10 Highs - The supposed killing factor for most...I say that's pure bollocks. I am treble sensitive, I don't like piercing notes as they give me a headache. When I first put these on, I did so with an amp and that's it. I can see why people say it can be a bit much, but it's nothing to be concerned about. I did get a little bit of fatigue from the treble, but people are over exaggerating. I found the treble to ever so slightly sibilant, but nothing major. 8.5/10 Leak - These are open cans, expect them to let in sound, and let out sound. I can hear my TV quite well, with these on as I type. While it is a tiny bit muffled, it's still very much audible and it's of acceptable volume. As for sound going out, these do leak more than you would expect, so be prepared for that. If you have your EQ/software settings set to a more dark sound it will not leak as much, but them mids and highs are going to be heard loud and clear. 6/10 Imaging - Not quite sure what this is, but following the definition I would say these do that quite well. Cannot say much else, but reproduction does seem to be good. I don't know if this fits here or not, but poorly recorded songs or songs with poor quality will definitely suffer in all sections. I won't rate this. Soundstage - This is what impressed me the most. I was frequently surprised at hearing an instrument or sound I never knew was there in quite a few songs. The soundstage is much wider than I expected, and throughly impressed me. 10/10 Build quality: I would tent to agree with the others on this. Everything is good...it's German made, so it not a surprise. I really don't need to add to this as others have already said what I'd say. 9/10 Design: I'll keep it short and sweet since this isn't really relevant. It's nice, but I definitely prefer the premium look. Plastic doesn't appeal to me, but it is designed well. I won't rate this. Overall I'd say this would earn an 8.5/10. It could do better in aspects, but it is quite well. If "audiophile basshead" fits you, then this will likely appeal to you, if you lean more towards a heavier basshead it likely won't. I for one am happy with it...can't wait to hear how it sounds at 100 hours. It could use a bit more bass though. I will update when the 100 hour burn in is complete. I have about 4-5 hours under the belt, but due to the rattling issue I am likely going to RMA so I will have to start over again.
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Reviewed in the United States on January 7, 2015 by Justin