The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is an open-back, over-ear wired studio headphone with a 3.5mm-to-1/4-inch adapter, replaceable velour ear pads, and a 2-year manufacturer warranty. It is built in Germany and marketed for studio mixing, mastering, and critical listening applications.
19 mentions · 7 threadslast mention Aug 2025
Real comments from Reddit, linked to the original thread. Nothing paraphrased.
Don’t know, might be because it has to be connected to dedicated amp. Can anyone guide me towards the adjustment of equalizer to little warm tone. Also would I be making mistake by switching it to dt 990pro (250ohms) for better soundstage. Can anyone tell me more about dt 990pro and difference in the sound between it.
Still though, why is the baffle made out of paper - focal and sennheiser use metal mesh
100% yes. I had zero issues with piercing treble on the 770. The 990 were just to sibilant for me and way more piercing than the 770. So if you're on the edge already, don't do it.
The material itself is probably super cheap but the R&D that went into choosing that specific material at that thickness to alter the acoustics is what you’re paying for
Looks good!
I cannot stress enough how different 990s sound with fresh and worn pads. After I replaced them - I was not particularity happy with the sound of the headphone I knew very well. Very bright and harsh. ... In case of 990s - they have plenty of kick. My vote is still for 990 pro. I used 770s and 990s for 3 years or so. Never did I felt that 770s sounded better.
The 990 and deadly treble are basically a meme at this point. ... If not, you may be looking for something a little more laid back.
Out of the box, the DT990 Pro would feel better. ... The DT series of Beyerdynamics are known to be built like tanks. ... If it makes any difference, the DT990 Pros have replaceable parts readily available.
I recently picked up the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro (80 Ohm), and while the build is fantastic, the sound out of my current setup (no audio interface yet) honestly feels underwhelming—borderline awful at times. I’ve tried playing with EQ settings, but nothing really fixes it.
I don't know if the 2i2 is any better, but i wouldn't recommend an audio interface for headphones, unless you don't plan on recording.
Love the DT 990 Pro after getting used to the sound, dethroned my DT 1990 weirdly enough.
Meanwhile, the DT 990 have a treble spike that many people find fatiguing in longer listening sessions. So if you are at all treble sensitive, they might not be a good choice for you.
depending on your motherboard 2i2 could sound worse, cheapest good sounding audio interface is Motu M2, 2i2 is alright for mic input but not for headphone out, \~$30 FiiO KA11, Jcally JM20 Max and Shanling UA Mini all sound better and are a lot more powerful even tho they are tiny
I’d recommend a different pair of headphones and getting a Schiit Magni Unity or FiiO K11. ... HD560S maybe or 6XX if you can save some bucks buying it pre-owned.
Probably nothing special about the material itself. The insane amount of R&D that goes into this type of thing is what makes it special
The 990 shares the same driver as the 770, so it won’t be an upgrade. You’ll just experience less bass and a larger soundstage.
I don't understand what the pipeline is that leads so many people to buy DT990s. I think they are well-suited to middle-aged listeners with significant presbycusis but I'm not sure who else.
I feel like Beyerdynamic will be better for you. I also find that they are more comfortable. Sennheisers have pretty weak bass, they are better for less bass-focused music.
Yeah, open back headphones are better and have bigger soundstage. However 990 has even more highs and bass is shallower. If you want improvement, you should first figure out how to use EQ profiles to normalise the response and get better sound that way. After getting good results, you can start looking into stuff like 560s, DT990, DT880, R70X.
Reports converge on one recurring issue: **listeners repeatedly describe the treble as harsh, sibilant, or fatiguing**, with several calling the 990's brightness a known quirk of the line rather than a one-off unit problem. Build is reported as sturdy, with owners noting replaceable parts and a tank-like feel, though at least one thread questions why the driver baffle uses paper rather than metal mesh. Multiple mentions note the headphones need a dedicated amp to sound their best, adding cost and complexity beyond the sticker price. Pad condition is also reported to shift the sound noticeably, with fresh velour described as brighter and worn pads as calmer. **Buyers who want a laid-back, warm signature are advised elsewhere**, while those chasing a spacious, energetic studio-monitor style sound with treble they can EQ or tame report getting along with them fine.