The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO is a no-nonsense, open-back studio headset with a pretty spectacular sound for the price. I would love to use these on the go, but at 250 ohms, you need a decent phone amp to get the volume you need. The DT 990 PRO is advertised as almost identical to the DT 990 PREMIUM, but there are a few differences which you may want to consider before buying.

IN THE BOX

Beyerdynamic keeps it simple with the DT 990 Pro edition versus the DT 990 Premium, which comes in a leatherette zip carry case. The DT 990 Pro includes a black nylon drawstring bag, and the headphone cable is equipped with a gold plated 3.5 mm jack and screw-on 6.35mm adapter.

DESIGN

The coiled cable is single sided and 3 meters (9.8 ft) in length. The steel headband has a black padded cover, which is detachable and presumably designed to easily replace parts. In fact, all parts are replaceable on the DT 990 Pro.

The earpads are a soft grey velour, yet a little firmer than the DT 990 Premium (which are designed for home use) to allow for a bit more movement in a studio setting. I wore them for quite a while, and even with glasses, they remain very comfortable.

The earcups are white, covered with a black plastic grill. The headset feels light at 250 grams and seems very durable in design.

SOUND

Although the DT 990 Pro and the DT 990 Premium are exactly the same in acoustic design, they do sound a little a different.  The softer, slightly looser feel on the Premium actually make the sound a little edgier than the Pro. Personally, I prefer the smoother feel of the DT 990 Pro, and if you’re engaged in critical listening, the Pro would probably be a better bet.

I have nothing bad to say about the sound at any of the frequencies. These headphones are so sweet. Acoustic instruments have a great timber. I especially love the way acoustic guitars feel; they’re perfect for folk or country. The articulate vocals have a nice presence. Delicate, textured voices, like Nick Drake, Lorde or Julia Michaels for example, really seem to shine. Drums have a great transient response, so they sound crystal clear and realistic. Electronic drums really pop, and the bass is deep but not muddy at all. So, hip hop and pop are nice to listen to as well. The mids are smooth and well pronounced, while the highs are sharp without being sibilant.  All in all, you can’t go wrong with the clarity and spaciousness of the DT 990 Pro, as they’re designed for mixing and sound professionals. These cans will impress.

SPECIFICATIONS

Type: Open

Frequency: 5-35,000 Hz

Impedance: 250 Ohms

Sensitivity: 96 dB

Max Input: 100mW

Weight: 250 g (without cable)

Accessories: ¼” adapter, nylon drawstring bag

You can order Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO at Audio46.