Beyerdynamic
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO
Best reference headphones for professional studio mixing and critical listening.
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO headphones are benchmark-setting studio headphones designed for sophisticated listening, mixing, and mastering. Featuring advanced Tesla technology, they deliver high resolution and output power with brilliant highs, detailed mids, and precise bass for sublime sound quality. The open-back, circumaural design provides a natural and extremely spatial sound, making them a reliable reference. Crafted in Germany with high-tech textiles and replaceable ear pads and headband, these headphones offer exceptional comfort for long studio sessions. They come with two sets of velour ear pads, allowing you to choose between a balanced or analytical sound tuning.
$399.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
74
/ 5520
#74 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
-32%
Below average
Transmission Type
Wired
/ Wired
Who it's for
- Audio engineers requiring surgical precision for critical mixing tasks
- Professional producers needing reliable gear for long studio sessions
- Audiophiles who enjoy customizing their sound signature for different genres
Who should skip it
- Commuters or office workers needing privacy and noise isolation
- Listeners sensitive to sharp high-frequency peaks and treble fatigue
- Casual users wanting a simple plug-and-play mobile listening experience
Performance breakdown
Soundstage Accuracy
Open-back design creates a wide, natural environment for critical mixing tasks.
Build Durability
German engineering ensures these withstand the rigors of daily studio use.
Long-term Comfort
Plush velour pads make extended mastering sessions feel effortless and fatigue-free.
Frequency Resolution
Tesla drivers deliver surgical precision across the entire audible spectrum.
Tuning Versatility
Interchangeable pads allow for quick shifts between analytical and balanced profiles.
Drive Requirements
High 250-ohm impedance necessitates a dedicated amplifier for optimal performance.
Key Specs
Transmission Type
Wired
Nominal Impedance Headphones
250 ohms
Weight Headphones Without Cable
370g
Headphone Frequency Response
5-40,000 Hz
Nominal Sound Pressure Level
102 dBSPL (1mW/500Hz)
Sound Coupling To The Ear
Circumaural (Around The Ear)
Cable & Plug
3-pin XLR plug, 6.35 mm (1/4") stereo jack plug, 3 m straight cable & 5 m coiled cable
Driver Size
45 mm
Features
- High-resolution Tesla driver technology for superior sound reproduction
- Open-back design for a natural and spatial soundstage
- Two sets of interchangeable velour ear pads for customizable sound tuning
- Exceptional comfort with high-tech textiles and ergonomic design
- Robust construction, handcrafted in Germany for durability and quality
- Detachable, single-sided cable with mini-XLR connector for convenience
- Includes a hardcase for protection and portability
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO for its exceptional sound quality, highlighting its remarkable detail and analytical precision that truly elevates the listening experience. The robust, premium build quality also receives widespread acclaim, assuring users of its durability and professional grade construction. While a significant investment, many find its performance and craftsmanship deliver outstanding value, making it a highly recommended choice for critical listening and studio work.
Know before you buy
Yes, with a nominal impedance of 250 ohms, these headphones require a high-quality headphone amplifier or a professional audio interface to reach their full potential. Plugging them directly into a standard laptop or phone will likely result in low volume and lackluster dynamics.
The two sets of velour ear pads are designed to alter the sound signature. The 'balanced' pads provide a slightly more neutral, natural sound, while the 'analytical' pads emphasize detail and precision, making them ideal for critical mixing and mastering tasks.
While they are engineered as a professional reference tool for mixing and mastering, many audiophiles enjoy them for casual listening due to their expansive soundstage and high-resolution detail. However, keep in mind that the open-back design means sound will leak out, and you will hear ambient noise from your surroundings.
Yes, the DT 1990 PRO features a detachable, single-sided cable that connects via a mini-XLR plug. This makes it easy to replace the cable if it wears out or to switch between the included straight and coiled options.
These headphones are designed for extended wear, featuring high-tech textiles and an ergonomic headband. While they are robust and weigh 370g, the plush velour padding and circumaural design generally provide excellent comfort for long studio sessions.
The open-back design provides a natural, spatial soundstage that is excellent for imaging, but it does not produce the same physical 'thump' as a closed-back model. However, the Tesla drivers still deliver precise, tight, and well-defined bass that is accurate enough for professional reference.
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$400