Beyerdynamic
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO MKII
Best open-back headphones for professional studio mixing and mastering.
Experience the evolution of studio sound with the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO MKII headphones. These open-back headphones feature newly developed TESLA.45 drivers for unparalleled resolution and impulse response, perfect for critical mixing, mastering, and editing. Enjoy a natural, spatial soundstage and exceptional comfort during long sessions thanks to plush velour earpads and a pressure-relieving headband. Crafted in Germany with premium materials, these headphones offer durability and a long-term investment in professional audio quality. They come with multiple earpad options and a protective hard case.
$699.99
Owner Satisfaction
4.7
/ 5
Category Rank
74
/ 5520
#74 in Headphones
Price vs Category Average
+19%
Above average
Usage Style
Over-ear
/ Over-ear
Who it's for
- Listeners wanting customizable sound signatures for different creative projects
- Audio engineers requiring surgical precision for critical mixing tasks
- Studio professionals working long hours in demanding production environments
Who should skip it
- Budget-conscious buyers looking for a simple plug-and-play setup
- Listeners sensitive to sharp high-frequency peaks during long sessions
- Commuters or office workers needing privacy in shared spaces
Performance breakdown
Audio Resolution
The TESLA.45 driver delivers surgical clarity for the most demanding ears.
Soundstage Accuracy
Open-back design creates a wide, natural environment for precise spatial imaging.
Build Durability
German engineering ensures these withstand years of rigorous daily studio use.
Long-term Comfort
Plush velour and ergonomic pressure relief make marathon sessions feel effortless.
Versatility
Swappable earpads allow for quick transitions between mixing and mastering profiles.
Driveability
Low impedance makes these highly compatible with various professional audio interfaces.
Key Specs
Usage Style
Over-ear
Operating Principle
Open
Transmission Type
Wired
Nominal Impedance
30 ohms
Weight
376 g
Headphone Frequency Response
5-40,000 Hz
Nominal Sound Pressure Level
110 dBSPL (1 mW/500 Hz)
Sound Coupling to the Ear
Circumaural
Features
- Newly developed TESLA.45 driver technology for enhanced resolution
- Open-back design for a natural and spatial soundstage
- Includes two types of velour earpads for different sound signatures
- Exceptional comfort for long listening sessions
- Durable, high-quality construction made in Germany
- Replaceable parts for extended lifespan and sustainability
- Detachable mini-XLR cable for convenience and flexibility
- Comes with a high-quality hard case for storage and transport
What customers say
Customers consistently praise the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO MKII for its exceptional sound quality and robust build. Users frequently highlight the detailed, analytical audio reproduction, making it a favorite for critical listening and professional mixing. The headphones are also celebrated for their outstanding durability, promising years of reliable performance. Many find them remarkably comfortable, even during extended sessions, further enhancing the premium user experience. This combination of superior audio fidelity and lasting construction establishes its strong reputation.
Know before you buy
The MKII version features the updated TESLA.45 driver technology, which provides improved resolution, lower distortion, and a more refined impulse response compared to the original model.
While they are engineered for critical mixing and mastering, their natural, spatial soundstage makes them an excellent choice for audiophiles who enjoy a detailed, high-fidelity listening experience at home.
With a nominal impedance of 30 ohms, these headphones are relatively easy to drive. However, to get the best performance and clarity out of the TESLA.45 drivers, we recommend using a dedicated headphone amplifier or high-quality DAC.
The two sets of velour earpads are tuned to provide different sound signatures, allowing you to choose between a more analytical, neutral profile for mixing or a slightly warmer, more musical profile for general listening.
Yes, the DT 1990 PRO MKII uses a detachable cable with a 3-pin mini-XLR connector at the headphone end, making it easy to replace or swap between the included 3m straight and 5m coiled cables.
Yes, Beyerdynamic designed these with longevity in mind. Key components like the earpads, headband padding, and cables are easily replaceable, ensuring the headphones can remain in service for many years.
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$700