Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro Review | 93 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£130
  • Avg. price in US: ~$180
  • Form factor: over-ear
  • Connectivity: wired
  • Battery life: N/A hours
  • Active noise cancellation (ANC): no

Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro review. Compare 93 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among headphones and if it is worth buying.

4.6

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the headphones' quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best headphones on the market.

Score components:

80.0%

3.4

Technical Score

20.0%

9.5

User score

Poor
3.4

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

3.2

Sound

20.0%

2.7

Features

10.0%

5.9

Design

8.0%

6.2

Connectivity

6.0%

1.0

Battery

4.0%

1.1

Calls & Controls

Poor
9.5

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

9.3

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(16507)
amazon
4.5
(1897)
amazon
4.5
(1514)
amazon
4.7
(221)
amazon
4.7
(8)
United States
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4.7
(16507)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(1897)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(1514)
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(221)
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(8)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

Exceptional
  • 0.2
    Gaming

    Score components:

    35.0%

    0.0

    Audio latency

    25.0%

    0.0

    Low-latency game mode

    20.0%

    1.0

    Can be used as a headset

    12.0%

    0.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    8.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

  • 1.1
    Travel

    Score components:

    28.0%

    1.0

    Active noise cancellation (ANC)

    24.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    18.0%

    4.4

    Weight

    16.0%

    0.0

    Multipoint support

    14.0%

    0.0

    Ambient sound mode

  • 0.2
    Calls

    Score components:

    28.0%

    0.0

    Noise-canceling microphone

    24.0%

    1.0

    Can be used as a headset

    18.0%

    0.0

    Multipoint support

    16.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    14.0%

    0.0

    Companion app

  • 2.4
    Workout

    Score components:

    28.0%

    4.4

    Weight

    24.0%

    1.0

    Water resistance

    20.0%

    4.0

    IP rating

    16.0%

    0.0

    Battery life

    12.0%

    1.0

    Can be used as a headset

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Best rankings

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Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is a legendary open-back dynamic studio headphone handcrafted in Germany, featuring a wide frequency response of 5Hz–35,000Hz, a nominal sound pressure level of 96dB, and a power handling capacity of 100mW. Known for its 'V-shaped' sound signature, it offers a spacious three-dimensional soundstage, analytical high-frequency detail, and precise bass, making it a staple for professional mixing and mastering. Its primary strengths include exceptional comfort for long sessions via plush velour earpads and a robust, fully serviceable spring steel headband construction. However, its prominent treble can be fatiguing or 'piercing' for some users, and the 250-ohm impedance typically requires a dedicated amplifier for optimal performance. Additionally, the open-back design provides zero noise isolation, and the fixed, single-sided coiled cable can be bulky and non-detachable.

Technical Specifications of Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the headphones' technical performance, covering key areas such as sound quality, noise cancelling, microphone performance, battery life, comfort, connectivity, features, and build quality.

When it matters: When you want to compare headphones based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

52.0%

3.2

Sound

20.0%

2.7

Features

10.0%

5.9

Design

8.0%

6.2

Connectivity

6.0%

1.0

Battery

4.0%

1.1

Calls & Controls

3.4
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a technical score of 3.41 points, which is lower than that of 94.9% of products in this category.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.

When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.

Score components:

70.0%

9.3

User reviews

30.0%

10

Popularity

User score:
United Kingdom
amazon
4.7
(16507)
amazon
4.5
(1897)
amazon
4.5
(1514)
amazon
4.7
(221)
amazon
4.7
(8)
United States
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(16507)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(1897)
Amazon_logo.png
4.5
(1514)
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(221)
Amazon_logo.png
4.7
(8)

(Reviews last updated: June 2026)

9.5
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a user score of 9.53 points, which is higher than that of 99.3% of products in this category.
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the headphones.
When it matters: When you prefer headphones that have already been chosen and reviewed by many other users.
10
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a popularity of 10 points, which is higher than 71.9% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the headphones' overall rating with their cost.

When it matters: When you are looking for headphones that offer a strong balance of performance, features, and price.

Score components:

60.0%

4.6

Overall score

40.0%

9.8

Price

6.2
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a quality-to-price ratio of 6.2 points, which is lower than 74.9% of products in this category.
Active noise cancellation (ANC)
What it is: Reduces background noise using active technology
When it matters: When blocking office, travel, or aircraft noise is a priority.

Importance: HIGH

no
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro does not support active noise cancellation. 27.4% of headphones support active noise cancellation.
Driver type
What it is: Type of speaker driver technology used
When it matters: When the underlying sound character and driver technology matter to you.

Importance: MEDIUM

dynamic
Driver size
What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

Importance: MEDIUM

45 mm
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses a driver size of 45 mm, larger driver size than 83.6% of headphones and equal to 2.4% of headphones.
Number of drivers
What it is: Total number of speaker drivers per earcup
When it matters: When multi-driver designs are part of your buying criteria.

Importance: LOW

1
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses 1 drivers, equal to 96% of headphones.
Lowest frequency
What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=10 Hz

5 Hz
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro reaches a lowest frequency of 5 Hz, lower lowest frequency than 86.3% of headphones and equal to 10.8% of headphones.
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Noise-canceling microphone
What it is: Built-in microphone reduces background noise during calls
When it matters: When you take calls in busy spaces and want your voice to stay clearer.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Can be used as a headset
What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is not headset-ready, while 15.3% is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
Number of microphones
What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=2

0
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has 0 microphones, fewer microphones than 74.1% of headphones and equal to 25.9% of headphones.
Boom microphone
What it is: Includes detachable boom microphone for voice clarity
When it matters: When you need stronger voice clarity for gaming, streaming, or work calls.

Importance: LOW

N/A
Microphone SNR
What it is: Signal-to-noise ratio of the microphone
When it matters: When call clarity matters and you want your voice picked up more cleanly instead of buried in background hiss.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >80 dB

N/A
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Connectivity
What it is: Available connection methods (wired, wireless, Bluetooth, etc.)
When it matters: When the headphones need to match how you listen across wired and wireless devices.

Importance: HIGH

wired
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro supports wired connectivity, equal to 52.6% of headphones.
Bluetooth version
What it is: Version of Bluetooth technology supported
When it matters: When wireless stability, efficiency, and feature support matter more than treating Bluetooth as a box-check spec.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=5.0

N/A
Maximum Bluetooth range
What it is: Maximum wireless operating distance from source device
When it matters: When you move around rooms and want fewer dropouts from your source device.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=10 m

N/A
Audio latency
What it is: Delay between audio and video in wireless mode
When it matters: When you watch video or play games and need sound to stay in sync.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: <60 ms

N/A
Multipoint support
What it is: Supports simultaneous connections to multiple devices
When it matters: When you switch often between a phone and a laptop during the day.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
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Ambient sound mode
What it is: Allows external sounds to pass through for awareness
When it matters: When you need to stay aware of traffic, voices, or announcements.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
EQ support
What it is: Allows customization of sound profile via equalizer
When it matters: When the stock tuning is not enough and you want to shape bass, mids, or treble to match your taste.

Importance: MEDIUM

no
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro does not support EQ customization. 23.3% of headphones support EQ.
Companion app
What it is: Dedicated mobile app for customization and updates
When it matters: When software customization, updates, and extra controls matter.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Adjustable ANC levels
What it is: Allows adjustment of noise cancellation intensity levels
When it matters: When you move between quiet rooms, offices, streets, and public transport and do not want one ANC setting for every situation.

Importance: LOW

Good value: >=4

N/A
Voice assistant support
What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

Importance: LOW

no
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro does not support voice assistants. 60.9% of headphones support voice assistants.
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Battery life
What it is: Playback time on a single charge
When it matters: When you commute, travel, or work long shifts and do not want charging breaks to interrupt listening.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >45 hours

N/A
Battery life with ANC
What it is: Playback time with active noise cancellation enabled
When it matters: When you plan to keep noise cancellation on for most of the day.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: >40 hours

N/A
Charging time
What it is: Time required for a full battery charge
When it matters: When you often need the headphones ready again after short breaks.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <=2 hours

N/A
Quick charge
What it is: Provides quick playback time with short charging period
When it matters: When a short top-up needs to deliver useful playback before you leave.

Importance: MEDIUM

N/A
Battery capacity
What it is: Total energy storage of the internal battery
When it matters: When you are estimating how much battery headroom the design may have before relying only on the official runtime claim.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: >=720 mAh

N/A
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Brand name
What it is: The manufacturer or brand of the product.
When it matters: When you prefer a specific ecosystem, support network, or design philosophy.

Importance: MEDIUM

Beyerdynamic
Form factor
What it is: Overall design type of the headphones (over-ear, on-ear, in-ear, etc.)
When it matters: When comfort, portability, and isolation depend on the overall headphone style.

Importance: HIGH

over-ear
Weight
What it is: Total weight of the headphones
When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: <150 g

250 g
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro weighs 250 g, heavier than 61.3% of headphones and equal to 1.5% of headphones.
Acoustic design
What it is: Type of acoustic design (open-back, closed-back, semi-open)
When it matters: When you need the right balance of isolation, leakage, and soundstage.

Importance: HIGH

open-back
Clamp force
What it is: Amount of clamping pressure applied to the head
When it matters: When comfort and fit security matter during long sessions.

Importance: MEDIUM

3.5
Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a clamp force of 3.5, lower clamp force than 68.7% of headphones and equal to 5.5% of headphones.
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Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro vs the average headphone

  • 13 Hz lower bass extension
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
    What it is: Lowest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When deeper bass extension matters for your music or movie listening.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <=10 Hz

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.5 Hz vs 18 Hz
  • 5 mm larger driver size
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (45 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
    What it is: Diameter of the speaker driver unit
    When it matters: When you want extra hardware context behind how the headphones may handle bass weight, scale, or overall presentation.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (45 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.45 mm vs 40 mm
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
    What it is: Shows whether the headphones end in a built-in 3.5 mm male plug instead of relying on a separate detachable cable.
    When it matters: When direct wired compatibility with older devices or adapters matters.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
  • 15,000 Hz higher treble extension
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (35,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
    What it is: Highest audio frequency the headphones can reproduce
    When it matters: When treble extension and overall frequency reach matter to you.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=24000 Hz

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (35,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.35000 Hz vs 20000 Hz
  • 14 mm more spacious earcup width
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro offers more spacious earcup width than the average headphone (57 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
    What it is: Internal width of the earcup cavity
    When it matters: When earcup fit affects comfort and pressure around your ears.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro offers more spacious earcup width than the average headphone (57 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.57 mm vs 43 mm
  • Open-back design
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
    What it is: Shows whether the headphones use an open-back housing that lets air and sound pass through more freely than a closed design.
    When it matters: When you listen in quiet places and care more about spacious sound than blocking outside noise or preventing sound leakage.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
  • 1.8 m more useful cable length
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (3 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
    What it is: Length of the supplied audio cable
    When it matters: When your desk, TV, or audio setup needs more or less movement range.

    Importance: LOW

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (3 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.3 m vs 1.2 m
  • 19.2% higher user score
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.53 vs 8.000).
    What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the headphones.
    When it matters: When you want to understand how headphones perform in real listening and how reliable they are in terms of comfort, audio quality, battery life, and long-term use.
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a higher user score than the average headphone (9.53 vs 8.000).9.53 vs 8
  • 14 mm more spacious earcup width
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro offers more spacious earcup width than the average headphone (57 mm vs 43 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup width of 43 mm.
  • 1.8 m more useful cable length
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro offers a more useful cable length than the average headphone (3 m vs 1.2 m). The average headphones have a cable length of 1.2 m.
  • Open-back design
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses an open-back design, while the average headphone does not. 9.3% of headphones have an open-back design.
  • 0.8 lower clamp force
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a lower clamp force than the average headphone (3.5 vs 4.3). The average headphones have a clamp force of 4.3.
  • 13 Hz lower bass extension
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a lower lowest frequency than the average headphone (5 Hz vs 18 Hz). The average headphones reach a lowest frequency of 18 Hz.
  • 5 mm larger driver size
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses a larger driver size than the average headphone (45 mm vs 40 mm). The average headphones use a driver size of 40 mm.
  • 15,000 Hz higher treble extension
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a higher highest frequency than the average headphone (35,000 Hz vs 20,000 Hz). The average headphones reach a highest frequency of 20,000 Hz.
  • Direct 3.5 mm plug
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro includes a direct 3.5 mm plug, the average headphone does not. 38.8% of headphones have a 3.5 mm male connector.
  • Fixed cable
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • 14.7% higher weight
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is heavier than the average headphone (250 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
  • Tangle-prone cable
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
  • 2 mm tighter earcup height
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has tighter earcup height than the average headphone (58 mm vs 60 mm). The average headphones offer an inner earcup height of 60 mm.
  • No passive noise reduction
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
  • 6 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
  • 7 dB SPL lower sound pressure level
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a lower sound pressure level than the average headphone (96 dB SPL vs 103 dB SPL). The average headphones reach a sound pressure level of 103 dB SPL.
  • Not headset-ready
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
  • No voice assistant support
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • 32 years older release date
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro was released earlier than the average headphone (1,985 vs 2,017). The average headphones were released in 2,017.
  • No passive noise reduction
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
    What it is: Shows whether the headphones reduce outside noise through physical sealing, fit, and materials rather than active electronics.
    When it matters: When you want better isolation from fit and seal alone, even with ANC turned off or not available.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro does not offer passive noise reduction, while the average headphone does. 82.7% of headphones have passive noise reduction.
  • No voice assistant support
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
    What it is: Compatible with voice assistants like Siri, Alexa, or Google Assistant
    When it matters: When hands-free control is part of your daily routine.

    Importance: LOW

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro does not support voice assistants, the average headphone does. 60.8% of headphones support voice assistants.
  • Fixed cable
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
    What it is: Cable can be removed or replaced
    When it matters: When you care about easier cable replacement, simpler storage, or the option to swap to shorter, longer, or upgraded leads.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a fixed cable, while the average headphone has a detachable one. 62% of headphones have a detachable cable.
  • 6 dB/mW lower sensitivity
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.
    What it is: Sound pressure output level per unit of input power
    When it matters: When you plan to use weaker sources like phones, handhelds, or entry-level dongles and still want enough volume.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: >=106 dB/mW

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has a lower sensitivity than the average headphone (96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW). The average headphones have sensitivity of 102 dB/mW.96 dB/mW vs 102 dB/mW
  • Not headset-ready
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
    What it is: Shows whether the headphones can handle voice chat and calls in addition to normal audio playback.
    When it matters: When one pair needs to cover music, calls, meetings, and gaming chat.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is not headset-ready, while the average headphone is. 84.7% of headphones can be used as headsets.
  • 14.7% higher weight
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is heavier than the average headphone (250 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.
    What it is: Total weight of the headphones
    When it matters: When long listening sessions make wearing comfort more important.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: <150 g

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is heavier than the average headphone (250 g vs 218 g). The average pair of headphones weighs 218 g.250 g vs 218 g
  • 1 fewer microphones
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.
    What it is: Total number of built-in microphones
    When it matters: When call pickup quality and beamforming support matter to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: >=2

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro has fewer microphones than the average headphone (0 vs 1). The average headphones have 1 microphones.0 vs 1
  • Tangle-prone cable
    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.
    What it is: Cable designed to resist tangling
    When it matters: When you often carry wired headphones in a bag or pocket.

    Importance: LOW

    Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro uses a tangle-prone cable, while the average headphone is easier to manage. 64.2% of headphones use a tangle-free cable.

Graphic comparison of Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro and

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro?

  • Extremely comfortable velour ear pads that are often described as 'pillows' for the ears.
  • Exceptionally wide and open soundstage with precise imaging, making it a top choice for competitive gaming.
  • Highly durable, robust build quality featuring a spring steel headband and high-quality plastics.
  • Great value for the price, offering professional-grade detail and resolution.
  • Excellent for critical listening and studio mixing, as its analytical sound helps reveal subtle imperfections.
  • Modular design where almost every part (pads, headband, drivers) is user-replaceable.

What customers dislike about Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro?

  • Aggressive treble peaks (especially around 6kHz and 8.5kHz) that can be sharp, sibilant, and fatiguing.
  • The 250 Ohm version is difficult to drive and generally requires a dedicated headphone amplifier to reach its full potential.
  • Non-detachable cable makes replacement difficult if damaged, unlike many modern competitors.
  • Open-back design results in significant sound leakage and zero noise isolation, making it unsuitable for public use.
  • The mid-range is notably recessed or 'v-shaped,' which may make vocals and certain instruments sound distant.
  • The 250 Ohm model can sound underwhelming and flat when used with mobile devices or basic computer outputs.

Expert reviews

R
reviewed.com
24/06/2016

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO headphones offer pristine sound quality with almost zero distortion and an exceptionally balanced frequency response. They feature a highly durable design with a metal-core headband, robust plastic joints, and soft, cloth-padded ear cups that provide a very comfortable initial fit. The open-backed cup design creates a spacious, immersive soundstage for...Read more

H
head-fi.org
05/05/2010

The Head-Fi showcase reviews for the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro highlight a robust, comfortable, and classic open-back design featuring exceptional comfort for long sessions. Acoustically, these headphones are praised for their wide soundstage, detailed treble, and punchy, deep bass, making them highly engaging, though the V-shaped frequency response results in a recessed midrange....Read more

T
thesoundapprentice.com
23/12/2013

The The Sound Apprentice review praises the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO (250-ohm) as an exceptional value-oriented, audiophile-grade headphone that balances analytical details with dynamic enjoyment. The reviewer notes several major pros, highlighting a wide, airy soundstage and excellent instrument separation that makes vocals crisp and horns shimmer realistically. The audio features a...Read more

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rtings.com
24/06/2016

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO are highly consistent, durable open-back headphones designed for critical, analytical listening with an exceptionally bright sound profile. They excel in studio environments due to a robust metal frame, comfortable, stable fit, and a wide, immersive soundstage, though they possess a non-detachable, coiled cable. While precise, their, open design results...Read more

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xander51.medium.com
22/01/2018

In a review on Medium, Alex Rowe highlights the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 Ohm headphones as a highly enjoyable open-back option, praised for an exceptionally wide soundstage, precise imaging, and superb comfort due to velour pads. Key strengths include accurate mid-range frequencies, which remain clean alongside energetic bass, making them excellent for immersive, long-term...Read more

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forum.headphones.com
27/05/2020

In his review of the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (250 Ohm) on The HEADPHONE Community, reviewer Chrono highlights several structural and performance strengths. Pros include an incredibly rigid, tank-like build quality that remains extremely lightweight at 249 grams. The headphone features spectacular comfort due to its soft velour earpads and low clamp force, making it easy to wear for...Read more

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audiosciencereview.com
31/01/2021

The Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro (250 ohm) is an open-back headphone priced at around $160 that features a lightweight design and large, round earcups that provide excellent long-term comfort after a brief break-in period. It is highly praised for its exceptional spatial qualities and robust durability. However, the reviewer noted physical cons regarding the build quality, specifically...Read more

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thehonestaudiophile.com
28/06/2021

The Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro (250 ohm) is a durable, open-back headphone praised for its natural and realistic presentation across various audio profiles. Its primary strengths include an exceptionally wide soundstage with fantastic depth and layering, making it ideal for gaming, movies, and critical listening. The bass is described as plump, detailed, and impactful without becoming...Read more

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eiaudio.de
29/11/2021

In this review of the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO (2021 manufacturing date), author Karsten Hein provides a critical assessment of the open-back, over-ear headphones while using them to digitize a vinyl record collection. On the positive side, the author praises their elegant visual design over rival AKG models, noting that the aesthetic initially drew him to purchase them over expert...Read more

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soundguys.com
19/11/2024

The SoundGuys review of the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO describes these open-back headphones as a comfortable, durable choice for professional audio work and long listening sessions, featuring a robust metal headband, soft velour earpads, and exceptional sonic detail. Key strengths include a lightweight build and an analytical sound profile that aids in mixing and identifying audio...Read more

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cms-buttler.de
10/12/2024

The CMS-Buttler review highlights the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro 250 Ohm as a highly popular, studio-grade headphone tailored for analytical tasks like mixing and mastering. Its standout pros include a robust and durable design featuring highly comfortable velour ear pads that avoid creating pressure points, alongside a spacious open-back construction that ensures good ventilation...Read more

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game2gether.de
29/08/2018

The beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (250 Ohm) is an open-back, over-ear studio headphone that performs exceptionally well for competitive PC gaming. A major strength is its world-class comfort; weighing just 250 grams, it features cloud-soft velour ear pads and a flexible, cushioned spring-steel headband that prevents sweating and feels weightless even during 10-hour sessions. In terms of...Read more

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bonedo.de
05/09/2023

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (80 Ohm) is an open-back, over-ear studio headphone that adapts a classic 1980s design to the modern "low-impedance trend," making it easier to drive using mobile devices and weaker headphone outputs without losing volume or quality. Built in Germany, it features robust construction with a flexible steel headband, replaceable velour ear pads, and a...Read more

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bonedo.de
21/09/2018

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is an iconic, open-back dynamic studio headphone that has maintained immense popularity in professional and home studios since the 1980s. Manufactured in Germany, it features an open design with circumaural (over-ear) earcups, comfortable light gray velour padding, a robust metal headband construction, and an overall weight of 250 grams without its fixed...Read more

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hifi.de
18/03/2022

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is a legendary studio headphone that also serves as a great choice for home high-fidelity listening. It is an open-back, over-ear model made in Germany that has kept its basic design since the 1980s. The headphones cost 159 Euros and are built for mixing, mastering, and everyday music enjoyment. This model has several big advantages like its great...Read more

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kopfhoerer.de
10/10/2015

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is a timeless studio classic that delivers an exceptionally well-balanced, high-quality analytical sound across the entire frequency spectrum, making it a reliable choice for final mix monitoring and Hi-Fi listening. According to the kopfhoerer.de review, its primary pros include an incredibly comfortable, airy over-ear design with plush velour ear pads,...Read more

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eiaudio.de
29/11/2021

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is a lightweight, over-ear open-back headphone manufactured in Germany, noted for its high build quality and long-term comfort due to its soft velour pads and modest clamping force. However, the reviewer highlights several design drawbacks for audiophile use, specifically the non-detachable, coiled "telephone-style" cable which limits upgrade options and...Read more

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delamar.de
No Date Provided

The beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is a highly reliable, open-back studio headphone handmade in Germany that is tailored specifically for mixing and monitoring in quiet environment settings. It earns a strong score of 4.5 out of 5 due to its exceptionally detailed sound reproduction, clear distortion-free playback, and an outstanding sense of spatial presentation. Weighing 250 grams...Read more

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forum.tellementnomade.org
08/06/2013

The Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro (250-ohm version) is an open-back studio classic known for its light 250-gram build and outstanding comfort, featuring exceptionally soft velour ear pads and a highly durable, fully repairable design. Sound-wise, it delivers a natural and highly detailed audio experience with a wide soundstage and deep, well-controlled bass. Its signature emphasizes...Read more

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leclaireur.fnac.com
26/06/2024

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is a 5-star rated, studio-oriented open-back headphone designed primarily for quiet, indoor listening environments. Evaluated thoroughly by Labo Fnac, it stands out for its masterful, well-defined sound signature and incredibly high sensitivity, which pairs excellently with high-end, expensive hi-fi equipment. Weighing 345 grams, this circum-aural...Read more

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lesnumeriques.com
11/09/2014

The Beyerdynamic DT990 Pro is a 250-ohm, open-back dynamic studio headphone that received a perfect 5 out of 5 rating for its exceptional build quality, comfort, and performance. Built primarily for professional studio monitoring and Hi-Fi listening, it features a highly robust and slightly flexible metal chassis combined with easily replaceable velvet ear pads and a removable...Read more

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apploide.com
21/09/2020

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro headphones are an open-back, over-ear studio model that has gained massive popularity among streamers like Ninja. Operating at a high impedance of 250 ohms, they require a dedicated amplifier to unlock their full audio potential, though they can technically plug into basic devices. While the reviewer notes that casual gamers can find much cheaper...Read more

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misauriculares.com
09/11/2018

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO (250 Ohm) is an open-back dynamic headphone praised for its exceptional comfort, lightweight design, and outstanding microdynamics relative to its price point. Built with a sturdy metallic core headband featuring a removable cushion, it utilizes large, soft circular velour earpads that measure 6.5 cm in diameter and 2.5 cm in depth, making it highly...Read more

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forum.tomshw.it
27/01/2018

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (250 ohm) offers exceptional comfort with soft velour ear pads, but features a non-removable, heavy coiled cable and a rigid frame. While the packaging is sparse, the open-back design delivers superior spatial positioning and acoustic fidelity, punching above its price point for studio and critical listening. Optimal performance requires dedicated...Read more

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audioreview.nl
23/06/2025

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is an open-back studio headphone celebrated for its airy, natural, and highly spatial soundstage that enables precise audio mixing and micro-detail detection. Handcrafted in Germany, it is a durable tool trusted by professionals for its transparent, honest sound reproduction across a wide 5 to 35,000 Hz frequency range. It comes in various models to match...Read more

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