Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro

The open-back reference standard for mixing and critical listening

Best for: Podcast producers and mixers who want open-back reference headphones for critical listening and editing

The DT 990 Pro is an open-back, over-ear wired headphone built around beyerdynamic's diffuse-field tuning, delivering a frequency response of 5 Hz to 35 kHz at 250 ohms. The open acoustic design provides a wide, spacious stereo image suited to mixing and referencing. Velour ear pads and a robust metal headband make it comfortable for extended studio sessions. Handcrafted in Germany with most components replaceable.

Key features

5 Hz - 35 kHz frequency response
Open-back, over-ear design - NOT for recording
250 ohm impedance - amp recommended
Velour ear pads for extended comfort
3m coiled cable
Handcrafted in Germany with replaceable parts

Our take

The DT 990 Pro is one of the most widely used reference headphones in home studios because the wide imaging makes it easier to hear stereo placement and spatial balance in your audio. The 250-ohm version sounds best with a dedicated headphone amp or a quality audio interface - an entry-level interface port will get you there but a proper amp headroom is audible. The V-shaped tuning (enhanced treble and bass) is something to know about going in: it's not perfectly flat, so it rewards ears that have calibrated against it. But for years, podcasters and producers have mixed on these and gotten results that translate well to other systems. Not suited for recording - the open back bleeds.