Beyerdynamic DT 990 EDITION
Best open-back headphones for audiophiles seeking a spacious, vibrant soundstage.
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 EDITION are open-back, circumaural stereo headphones designed for music enthusiasts and Hi-Fi lovers. They offer a spacious soundstage with distinctive treble and intense bass, making them ideal for rock and pop music. Crafted for exceptional comfort, these headphones feature a flexible headband and soft, breathable velour earpads for extended listening sessions. Built with high-quality components and manufactured in Germany, they are designed for durability with replaceable parts. Available in 32, 250, or 600 ohm versions to suit various audio systems.
$199.99
More DT 770/880/990 Options
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
791
/ 6142
#791 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
-66%
Below average
Operating Principle
Open
/ Open
Who it's for
- Competitive gamers and audiophiles seeking immersive spatial depth
- Long-session listeners prioritizing all-day ergonomic comfort
- Critical listeners wanting to uncover hidden nuances in recordings
Who should skip it
- Treble-sensitive listeners prone to fatigue from bright sound signatures
- Commuters and office workers needing privacy and noise isolation
- Casual users wanting a simple plug-and-play audio experience
Performance breakdown
Soundstage Width
Open-back design creates an expansive, airy environment for complex musical arrangements.
Long-term Comfort
Plush velour pads and lightweight frame make hours of listening effortless.
Build Durability
German-engineered construction with easily replaceable parts ensures lasting reliability.
Treble Clarity
Distinct, sharp highs provide a vibrant edge perfect for rock genres.
Impedance Versatility
Multiple ohm options allow for seamless pairing with various audio setups.
Bass Impact
Intense, punchy low-end response adds significant energy to pop and rock.
Key Specs
Operating Principle
Open
Transmission Type
Wired
Weight
290 g
Frequency Response
5 - 35,000 Hz
Sound Pressure Level
96 dB
Sound Coupling
Circumaural
Cable
Straight with 3.5 mm and 6.35 mm adapter
Earcup Material
Velour
Features
- Open-back design for a spacious, natural soundstage
- Distinct highs and intense bass for a rich, vibrant audio experience
- Exceptional comfort for long listening sessions with soft velour earcups
- Durable construction with replaceable parts
- Available in multiple impedance versions (32, 250, 600 ohms)
- Includes a carrying case
What customers say
Customers consistently laud the Beyerdynamic DT 990 EDITION for its outstanding sound quality, characterized by an expansive soundstage and detailed audio reproduction. A primary highlight is the exceptional comfort, with many users appreciating the plush velour earpads and lightweight design that allow for extended listening without fatigue. The robust build quality also receives frequent praise, contributing to a sense of durability. While some note a brighter treble, most find it contributes to the analytical and engaging listening experience, making it a highly regarded choice for audio enthusiasts.
Know before you buy
The open-back design allows air to pass through the earcups, which creates a wider, more natural soundstage that mimics the experience of listening to speakers in a room. This makes them ideal for critical listening, though it does mean sound will leak out and ambient noise will leak in.
The 32-ohm version is designed for mobile devices and laptops that lack high-powered outputs. The 250 and 600-ohm versions require a dedicated headphone amplifier to reach their full potential in terms of volume and sound quality.
Yes, they are specifically designed for extended use. The combination of a lightweight frame, a flexible headband, and soft, breathable velour earpads helps prevent fatigue during long sessions.
Yes, the DT 990 Edition is built with modularity in mind. Most parts, including the earpads and headband padding, are easily replaceable, which significantly extends the lifespan of the headphones.
With their signature 'V-shaped' sound profile, these headphones emphasize both treble and bass. This makes them particularly well-suited for rock, pop, and electronic music where a vibrant, energetic sound is preferred.
Yes, the headphones include a straight cable with a 3.5 mm plug and a screw-on 6.35 mm adapter, making them compatible with both portable devices and professional home audio equipment.
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