beyerdynamic DT 990 Edition 32 Ohm Over-Ear-Stereo Headphones. Open design, wired, high-end, for tablet and smartphone
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Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges
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Purchase options and add-ons
Brand | beyerdynamic |
Model Name | DT 990 Premium - 32 Ohm Gray |
Color | Gray |
Form Factor | Over Ear |
Connectivity Technology | Wired |
About this item
- The famous DT 990 Premium, 32 ohm version; Stereo Headphone for MP3, iPhone, iPod and home audio applications, analytical, true sound reproduction. Connectivity Technology: Wired
- Made in Germany, innovative "Bass reflex" system for excellent audio performance
- Open design, includes carry case, 11 oz light weight
- Gold vaporized stereo 3.5 mm mini-jack & 6.35 mm adapter
- 2 year manufacturer warranty only when purchased from an authorized beyerdynamic dealer.
Frequently bought together
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Top Brand: beyerdynamic
From the brand
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Audio technology with outstanding sound quality is our great passion at beyerdynamic - and it shows. Anyone who has ever put on a pair of beyerdynamic headphones and listened to music or played their favorite game with one of our headsets will confirm this. Our DT 770 PRO is now a legend and our MMX 300 is recognized as THE professional gaming headset. Made in Germany.
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This Item beyerdynamic DT 990 Edition 32 Ohm Over-Ear-Stereo Headphones. Open design, wired, high-end, for tablet and smartphone | Recommendations | dummy | dummy | dummy | |
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Price | $169.00$169.00 | $109.00$109.00 | $259.00$259.00 | $199.00$199.00 | $149.00$149.00 |
Delivery | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Mar 19 | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Mar 19 | — | — | Get it as soon as Tuesday, Mar 19 |
Customer Ratings | |||||
Sound quality | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.8 | 4.4 | 4.6 |
For gaming | 3.7 | 4.1 | 4.6 | 4.4 | 4.2 |
Comfort | 4.4 | 4.4 | 4.5 | 4.4 | — |
Quality of material | 4.3 | 4.0 | 4.3 | — | 4.4 |
Noise cancellation | 2.8 | — | — | 2.4 | 4.0 |
Sold By | Kaviso | HIFIMAN | Safe 'N Quick | Kaviso | Amazon.com |
connectivity tech | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired | Wired |
headphones form factor | Over Ear | — | Over Ear | Over Ear | Over Ear |
connector type | 3.5mm Jack, 6.35mm Jack | 6.35mm Jack | 3.5mm Jack, 6.35mm Jack | 6.35mm Jack, 3.5mm Jack | 3 5mm Jack |
headphones jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack | 3.5 mm Jack |
cable feature | Straight connecting cable with mini-jack plug (3.5 mm) & ¼“ adapter (6.35 mm) | Detachable | Detachable | Retractable | Detachable |
control type | Media Control | Media Control | — | — | Volume Control |
From the manufacturer
The excellent sound is especially beloved of pop and rock enthusiasts thanks to distinctive highs and lows.
History of beyerdynamic
It all started with the talkie: electrical engineer Eugen Beyer started his own company in Berlin in 1924 to build cinema speakers. His Elektrotechnische Fabrik Eugen Beyer laid the foundations for a world leading manufacturer of headphones, microphones and conference systems – and for today's beyerdynamic GmbH & Co. KG.
The Cult Object Tested and Lauded by Music Lovers
DT 990 Premium Edition - 32 Ohm for Mobile HI-FI
The DT 990 Edition headphones have been winning the hearts of countless HiFi and music enthusiasts since the 1980s. Boasting vibrant and natural sound, these headphones have been a popular choice for many years and are suitable for many music styles.
The DT 990 Edition has been part of the beyerdynamic portfolio for more than 20 years and still enjoys exceptional popularity. All components are available as replacement parts, making the DT 990 Edition a reliable companion for years to come.
- Open back design
- Strong Bass and Treble
- Comfortable fit due to rugged, adjustable, soft padded (leatherette) headband construction
- 10 ft. single-side cable
- 32 Ohm headphones are perfect for phones, tablets, MP3 players, laptops, and other non-amplified applications
- Gold-plated 1/8" mini stereo jack plu (3.5mm) and 1/4" adapter
DT 990 Edition: Premium HiFi headphones, open
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The cult object - tested and lauded by music loversThe DT 990 Edition has been an integral part of beyerdynamic's portfolio for more than 20 years – Time tested, music lovers galore continue to value the stereo headphones as a reliable companion.
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Spectacular soundThe DT 990 Edition comes in an open back design. This means that background noise outside the headphones remains clearly discernible even at higher volumes.
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Excellent wearing comfortThanks to the combination of comfortable headband and robust yokes made from aluminium, the premium headphones ensure a pleasant fit even for long listening sessions.
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Different impedance's for different applications - Available in 32, 250, and 600 Ohms
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32 OHMS - Ideal for mobile devicesModels with an impedance of 32 ohms are ideal for use on mobile devices such as smartphones or tablets for example.
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250 OHMS - Ideal for home stereo systemsThe 250-ohm headphones were developed primarily for use at home on a stereo system. |
600 OHMS - Ideal for hi-fi headphone amplifiersThe 600-ohm version gets the best out of hi-fi systems with especially powerful headphone outputs or special headphone amplifiers. |
DT 990 - 32 OHM | DT 990 - 250 OHM | DT 990 - 600 OHM | DT 880 Premium | DT 770 PRO | DT 880 PRO | |
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Customer Reviews |
4.5 out of 5 stars
1,988
|
4.5 out of 5 stars
1,988
|
4.5 out of 5 stars
1,988
|
4.5 out of 5 stars
2,303
|
4.6 out of 5 stars
1,790
|
4.6 out of 5 stars
244
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Design | Open (ambient noise penetrates freely in and out) | Open (ambient noise penetrates freely in and out) | Open (ambient noise penetrates freely in and out) | Semi-open (low attenuation of ambient noise) | Closed (powerful isolation of ambient noises) | Semi-open (low attenuation of ambient noise) |
Sound Quality | Strong bass and trebles, analytical, very spacious, voluminous bass, transparent | Strong bass and trebles, analytical, very spacious, voluminous bass, transparent | Strong bass and trebles, analytical, very spacious, voluminous bass, transparent | Neutral, relaxed, relatively spacious, deep but lean bass, transparent | Very spacious, transparent, detailed | Neutral, relaxed, relatively spacious, deep but clean bass, transparent |
Cable (length and type) | 10 ft. single sided cable, 3.5mm with 1/4" screw-on adapter included | 10 ft. single sided cable, 3.5mm with 1/4" screw-on adapter included | 10 ft. single sided cable, 3.5mm with 1/4" screw-on adapter included | 10 ft. single sided cable, 3.5mm with 1/4" screw-on adapter included | 1.6 m / straight cable (32 ohm version), 3 m / straight cable (80 ohm version), 3 m / coiled cable (250 ohm version) | 3 m / Coiled Cable (Single Sided) |
Impedance | 32 OHM | 250 OHM | 600 OHM | 32/250/600 Ohm | 32/80/250 Ohm | 250 Ohm |
Ideal for | Extremely versatile, ideal for phones, tablets, and mobile devices | Primarily for use with home stereo system | Get the best out of hi-fi systems such as headphone amplifiers | - | Wide range of studio, monitoring, mixing, and home listening applications | Critical listening, mixing, and studio use |
Recommended impedance for Phones, Tablets, and Mobile Devices | ✓ | - | - | 32 OHM Available | 32 OHM Available | - |
What's in the box
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Product information
Product Dimensions | 7 x 4 x 8.5 inches |
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Item Weight | 10.2 ounces |
ASIN | B0024NK344 |
Item model number | 483958 |
Customer Reviews |
4.5 out of 5 stars |
Best Sellers Rank | #114,245 in Electronics (See Top 100 in Electronics) #2,815 in Over-Ear Headphones |
Is Discontinued By Manufacturer | No |
Date First Available | July 1, 2009 |
Manufacturer | beyerdynamic |
Country of Origin | Germany |
Item Weight | 10.23 ounces |
Units | 1.0 Count |
Number Of Items | 1 |
Warranty & Support
Feedback
Product Description
The 32 ohm version of the DT 990 Premium line. Excellant choice for MP3 and iPod/iPhone use as well as robust enough for home audio and PC applications. Handcrafted in Germany, the DT 990 is a perfect combination of design and function. This headphone features a true sound definition with phenomenal bass response and the open design.
Play music the way it was intended
The DT 990 is an open dynamic headphone of exceptional quality and suitable for all music styles; whether you are into pop, classical or jazz, the DT 990’s will deliver the true sound as it was originally intended to.
Natural and balanced sound
The reduced weight of the diaphragm and moving coil result in a similar pulse characteristic as electrostatic headphones, and in combination with a carefully tailored frequency response provide a natural and balanced sound.
Uncompromised comfort
Soft ear and headband pads together with a single-sided cable ensure listening comfort during extended periods of use. The DT 990 is still manufactured in Germany providing an excellent quality.
Customer reviews
Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.
To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.
Learn more how customers reviews work on AmazonCustomers say
Customers like the sound quality, quality, and comfort of the headphones. For example, they mention that the bass frequencies are easy, the sound stage is greatly expanded, and the headphones are built very well. Customers are also happy with appearance, clarity, and speed. That said, opinions are mixed on the fit.
AI-generated from the text of customer reviews
Customers like the sound quality of the headphones. They say that the sound is crisp, and much better than what they've used in the past. The bass frequencies are easy, and the power is just right. The sound stage is greatly expanded, and they give a satisfying thump. For most applications, the output is perfectly fine.
"...Classical music sounds excellent as well - John Eliot Gardiner's recording of Beethoven's Symphonies on period instruments is ridiculous on these...." Read more
"...I am shocked at how impact-full the bass can be something I didn't expect from open back phones yet highs that are natural sweet and can sparkle...." Read more
"...These 32 Ohm headphones have the overall clarity and highly defined bass that was lacking in all the others...." Read more
"...Another thing I noticed when listening is the treble sounds incredibly high even with the EQ adjustments. Almost ear piercing high...." Read more
Customers like the quality of the headphones. They mention that the headphones are high quality in terms of both sound and comfort. They are built very well, have excellent sound stages, and have superior overall mids. The DT-990's are excellent headphones with a great sound stage and, overall, they are stunning headphone on good recordings. The performance of the 58X is stunning with good recordings, and it performed well with classical and rock. The service from Beyerdynamic lasted for a long time before they ran into a small issue. Overall, customers are happy with the quality and performance of these headphones.
"...response, the DT880s may be a better choice, but these are extremely good at what they do and frankly I would choose these again, recommend them to..." Read more
"...I can say that they appear ot built very well. The cord is heavy and appears to be durable. The constuction is solid, yet lightweight...." Read more
"...Hope this helps! UPDATE: Had these for a year and they are goin strong!! Still sound just as good or better then when I got em!..." Read more
"...I listen to a broad range of music, and this performed well with classical and rock, but was most noticeably agreeable with acoustic and percussive..." Read more
Customers like the comfort of the headphones. They mention that the ear pads have an extremely soft velour covering over an angled plush material, and the DT990 ear cushions are padded with veloured-like material.
"...The DT990 ear pads have an extremely soft velour covering over an angled plush material that contours your head better than typical earcups...." Read more
"...Comfort - The most comfortable headphones I have worn. I don't think there is any problem here for anyone...." Read more
"...well suited for movies and music overall very natural as well as more comfortable as the cups are oval and fit around the ear better but the DT-990..." Read more
"...These are super-soft, padded velour-like ear-pads. The travel adjustment for the ear pieces is not great...." Read more
Customers like the value of the headphones. They say the price is well worth it for the quality and sound quality that you're getting in return. Some say the headphones are a solid $150 headset with a slightly more expensive option.
"...Better than ever - cannot knock these at all. Worth the money, sound great, look and feel as good as the day they were new. Sound better than new...." Read more
"...Absolutely ridiculous!! I have adjusted to the digital age and crammed all my CDs into my iPod Classic ...." Read more
"...of my starter headphones, I wanted to upgrade, and really, price for quality is fantastic with many good choices in this price range or less...." Read more
"...In my opinion the Grados are by far the better value...." Read more
Customers like the appearance of the headphones. They say it looks good, has a good balance between passively cancelling out noise and being comfortable to wear. Customers also appreciate the crisp sound and the open ear design.
"...The box was very clearly used and beat up, but the headphones themselves were very nice and the only signs of previous use were fingerprints on the..." Read more
"...The long -What do I like?Sound - Pristine reproduction, almost completely uncolored. Pure, clean bass and excellent sound imaging...." Read more
"...and music overall very natural as well as more comfortable as the cups are oval and fit around the ear better but the DT-990 feel slightly lighter...." Read more
"...The bass takes getting used to, but they completely grew on me. Beautiful presence and warmth...." Read more
Customers like the clarity of the headphones. They mention that the highs are crisp and clear, the treble is clean and clear without any grain, and the sound imaging is sufficiently open and spacious providing good spatial and acoustic cues. Overall, customers are satisfied with the clarity and detail of the product.
"...of use I've gotten adjusted to the sound of the highs and the clarity is really nice...." Read more
"...Modern rock is also handled with ease - uncolored and clear...." Read more
"...The best thing about these, and what I was hoping for, is the overall clarity and precisely defined bass. It is here in spades...." Read more
"...not so with the Beyerdynamic DT990's, these bad boys are crystal clear...." Read more
Customers like the speed of the headphones. They say the response is amazing on the low end, they are faster in the lower part and also more crisp in the high frequency. They sound terrific and powerful with lots of smooth base and great mids. They serve their purpose well and are paired with an amazing amp. The DT990s handle 600ohms flawlessly without any issues and are just right.
"...It sounds so good! Modern rock is also handled with ease - uncolored and clear...." Read more
"...These aren't the fastest cans out there, but they are energetic and musical. A good amp helps with their bass response and quickness a bit...." Read more
"...It sounds alive, and propulsive, and it makes me feel the music and form a better connection to it...." Read more
"...The bass is tight, detailed and fast. Not heavy like bass head cans, but very real and present...." Read more
Customers are mixed about the fit of the headphones. Some mention that the ear cups are perfect fit and adjust with no problem, while others say that the headband is larger than average to distribute the pressure. The cups on these are large enough they don't touch their ears, but some say that they are a little tight around the ears. The soundstage is big, but can almost be too big sometimes. The cable is almost too long, and the mids were recessed, which felt very limiting. However, they have quickly broken in and have a perfect fit.
"...The ear cups are absolutely massive and I can't imagine anyone having trouble fitting their ears in these, even people with bigger heads...." Read more
"...with wearing these concerned me a bit as they seemed a bit tight around the ears but have quickly broken in and are getting more comfortable...." Read more
"...Bass is less deep than the M50s, but plenty deep and very clean. You just don't quite feel it in your chest the same way as the M50s...." Read more
"...I'm not a big guy and don't have a big head but they are a little tight...." Read more
Reviews with images
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Top reviews
Top reviews from the United States
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I purchased the 32 ohm version of these headphones for $170 as I bought them Open Box (Perfect Condition) from a different seller on Amazon. I attached images for this review because it is very truly in perfect condition and I'm very happy with my purchase. The box was very clearly used and beat up, but the headphones themselves were very nice and the only signs of previous use were fingerprints on the metal parts of them which were easily removed.
Sound Quality:
I'm no expert on audio but I do prefer to have the best audio I can for a decent price, and these just about fit the bill. They are open-back headphones and the soundstage is amazing. These are my first ever pair of open-back headphones and I am blown away by how awesome they sound. The bass is perfect but not overpowering. The mids are fine, they aren't nearly as recessed as some people claim. The highs can be a bit tinny and painful but I think that's just from being so used to bassy headphones before these. After a day or two of use I've gotten adjusted to the sound of the highs and the clarity is really nice. If it bothers you too much you can always download an EQ program to soften them a bit.
[Edit - One month after purchase: The highs have softened by a ton and are really pleasant. I'm not sure if it's due to break-in or just me getting used to them, but they are astounding sounding headphones. Best purchase I made this year, without a doubt. Great for gaming, watching movies/shows, and listening to music. Fantastic!]
Build:
Absolutely phenomenal! These are extremely light at 290 grams and the metal parts are sturdy. My only complaint with the build is that the adjustable parts of the headband are a bit wobbly and tend to "snap" into place randomly if you didn't adjust it perfectly. It's a minor issue that really doesn't take away from the experience, it's just a bit of a scare every once in a while if you forget they do that sometimes. Definitely not worried about them breaking at all, I think it's just a compromise from having more adjustability in the ear cups. The grills are metal and tend to attract fingerprints, as well as the tabs on the headband. The supports connecting it to the headband are also metal but have a more matte finish that doesn't seem to attract prints at all. The other parts are plastic with the headband being covered in an interesting layer of leather/foam material.
[Edit - One month after purchase: No problems with build at all, still. The cable seems to coil up on its own which is a bit of a pain, but really the least of my concerns.]
Comfort:
Pretty darn good. I'm used to having gaming headsets that are designed for hours and hours of use, and at this rate, I don't think any earcups will be as comfortable as the ones on Razer headphones. I don't know how they make those so insanely soft and plush, but they will forever be my favorite. The DT990 ear pads have an extremely soft velour covering over an angled plush material that contours your head better than typical earcups. They aren't as plush as my old Razer headsets, but they don't really need to be because these headphones are so light. The ear cups are absolutely massive and I can't imagine anyone having trouble fitting their ears in these, even people with bigger heads. I have a medium/small head and small ears and these adjust to even smaller sizes than I need, but I'm not sure that people with absolutely massive heads will get quite the size they need. I added a photo of them fully extended, if that may help. The headband is soft but still firm, but they are so light that doesn't really matter. The clamping force is okay, they don't feel like they'll fall off my head easily but I do wish it was just a *tiny* bit looser. It's not unbearable at all though, and it seems like I just need to get used to it. The open back nature also adds to comfort, somehow. It doesn't feel like the sound is coming from anywhere, it's just there near your ears, instead of traditional closed-back headphones which feel like the sound is actually being projected from a source into your ears. For these, the sound just... happens. It's really lovely. Very easy to forget you're even wearing headphones.
[Edit - One month after purchase: The clamping is no longer an issue. I can wear these all day with no headaches. Either got used to them or they loosened up a bit with use. Either way, they're wonderful. I tried replacing the ear cups with leather ones, but they made the sound signature less unique and the openness of the headphones was compromised more than I'd like. After going back to the originals, I'd have them no other way. Brainwavz XL Large Sheepskin Leather Replacement Memory Foam Earpads - Suitable For Many Other Large Over The Ear Headphones - Sennheiser, AKG, HifiMan, ATH, Philips, Fostex, Sony (Sheepskin Leather) ]
Accessories:
These came with a carrying case/bag that is leather and zips closed that is packed with nice foam. Not much extra room in there and I feel like it could have been downsized and contoured more, instead of being a huge rectangular shape. Also came with a screw-on adapter for amps, but I don't use it because I don't have an amp (or need it for the 32 ohm version). The cable is attached, which I would prefer it be detachable. It is very long and should have no issues reaching any of your systems, but it is definitely no good for mobile use unless you have a way to store a ton of cables wherever.
Additional Notes:
I bought these primarily for gaming and exclusive desktop use (so mostly gaming, music, watching videos, shows, etc. Basically everything you'd use headphones for) and so far they have been excellent for everything I have used them for. I may need to find a way to amp up the volume a bit, because currently everything is maxed on my computer to get the desired loudness, but for most situations it has more than enough volume. Just a few games lack in the super loud end, but it's really not a big deal. I think it's because I have an older motherboard, so newer computers or people with amps absolutely shouldn't have any issues with volume. Also, the open-back sound leakage is NOT BAD! I was so worried these would leak too much sound for other people, but I can barely even hear it leaking out at max volume. It definitely does leak but if you're in a room by yourself blasting music, I doubt anyone walking past your room with an open door would even hear a thing. You could probably listen in the same room as someone else and not have an issue either, just keep the volume lower.
Sound quality: 9.5/10
Build quality: 8.5/10
Comfort: 9/10
Accessories: 6/10
Overall, I'm very happy with these headphones. Definitely would recommend for anyone looking for an audio upgrade in the mid-high tier.
[Edit - One month after purchase: Buy these. You won't regret it. Seriously. If you're looking for a more flat response, the DT880s may be a better choice, but these are extremely good at what they do and frankly I would choose these again, recommend them to everyone I know, and give them as gifts. Even for $200, these are great. Total bargain.]
Reviewed in the United States on May 11, 2018
I purchased the 32 ohm version of these headphones for $170 as I bought them Open Box (Perfect Condition) from a different seller on Amazon. I attached images for this review because it is very truly in perfect condition and I'm very happy with my purchase. The box was very clearly used and beat up, but the headphones themselves were very nice and the only signs of previous use were fingerprints on the metal parts of them which were easily removed.
Sound Quality:
I'm no expert on audio but I do prefer to have the best audio I can for a decent price, and these just about fit the bill. They are open-back headphones and the soundstage is amazing. These are my first ever pair of open-back headphones and I am blown away by how awesome they sound. The bass is perfect but not overpowering. The mids are fine, they aren't nearly as recessed as some people claim. The highs can be a bit tinny and painful but I think that's just from being so used to bassy headphones before these. After a day or two of use I've gotten adjusted to the sound of the highs and the clarity is really nice. If it bothers you too much you can always download an EQ program to soften them a bit.
[Edit - One month after purchase: The highs have softened by a ton and are really pleasant. I'm not sure if it's due to break-in or just me getting used to them, but they are astounding sounding headphones. Best purchase I made this year, without a doubt. Great for gaming, watching movies/shows, and listening to music. Fantastic!]
Build:
Absolutely phenomenal! These are extremely light at 290 grams and the metal parts are sturdy. My only complaint with the build is that the adjustable parts of the headband are a bit wobbly and tend to "snap" into place randomly if you didn't adjust it perfectly. It's a minor issue that really doesn't take away from the experience, it's just a bit of a scare every once in a while if you forget they do that sometimes. Definitely not worried about them breaking at all, I think it's just a compromise from having more adjustability in the ear cups. The grills are metal and tend to attract fingerprints, as well as the tabs on the headband. The supports connecting it to the headband are also metal but have a more matte finish that doesn't seem to attract prints at all. The other parts are plastic with the headband being covered in an interesting layer of leather/foam material.
[Edit - One month after purchase: No problems with build at all, still. The cable seems to coil up on its own which is a bit of a pain, but really the least of my concerns.]
Comfort:
Pretty darn good. I'm used to having gaming headsets that are designed for hours and hours of use, and at this rate, I don't think any earcups will be as comfortable as the ones on Razer headphones. I don't know how they make those so insanely soft and plush, but they will forever be my favorite. The DT990 ear pads have an extremely soft velour covering over an angled plush material that contours your head better than typical earcups. They aren't as plush as my old Razer headsets, but they don't really need to be because these headphones are so light. The ear cups are absolutely massive and I can't imagine anyone having trouble fitting their ears in these, even people with bigger heads. I have a medium/small head and small ears and these adjust to even smaller sizes than I need, but I'm not sure that people with absolutely massive heads will get quite the size they need. I added a photo of them fully extended, if that may help. The headband is soft but still firm, but they are so light that doesn't really matter. The clamping force is okay, they don't feel like they'll fall off my head easily but I do wish it was just a *tiny* bit looser. It's not unbearable at all though, and it seems like I just need to get used to it. The open back nature also adds to comfort, somehow. It doesn't feel like the sound is coming from anywhere, it's just there near your ears, instead of traditional closed-back headphones which feel like the sound is actually being projected from a source into your ears. For these, the sound just... happens. It's really lovely. Very easy to forget you're even wearing headphones.
[Edit - One month after purchase: The clamping is no longer an issue. I can wear these all day with no headaches. Either got used to them or they loosened up a bit with use. Either way, they're wonderful. I tried replacing the ear cups with leather ones, but they made the sound signature less unique and the openness of the headphones was compromised more than I'd like. After going back to the originals, I'd have them no other way. [[ASIN:B076SLL6BK Brainwavz XL Large Sheepskin Leather Replacement Memory Foam Earpads - Suitable For Many Other Large Over The Ear Headphones - Sennheiser, AKG, HifiMan, ATH, Philips, Fostex, Sony (Sheepskin Leather)]]]
Accessories:
These came with a carrying case/bag that is leather and zips closed that is packed with nice foam. Not much extra room in there and I feel like it could have been downsized and contoured more, instead of being a huge rectangular shape. Also came with a screw-on adapter for amps, but I don't use it because I don't have an amp (or need it for the 32 ohm version). The cable is attached, which I would prefer it be detachable. It is very long and should have no issues reaching any of your systems, but it is definitely no good for mobile use unless you have a way to store a ton of cables wherever.
Additional Notes:
I bought these primarily for gaming and exclusive desktop use (so mostly gaming, music, watching videos, shows, etc. Basically everything you'd use headphones for) and so far they have been excellent for everything I have used them for. I may need to find a way to amp up the volume a bit, because currently everything is maxed on my computer to get the desired loudness, but for most situations it has more than enough volume. Just a few games lack in the super loud end, but it's really not a big deal. I think it's because I have an older motherboard, so newer computers or people with amps absolutely shouldn't have any issues with volume. Also, the open-back sound leakage is NOT BAD! I was so worried these would leak too much sound for other people, but I can barely even hear it leaking out at max volume. It definitely does leak but if you're in a room by yourself blasting music, I doubt anyone walking past your room with an open door would even hear a thing. You could probably listen in the same room as someone else and not have an issue either, just keep the volume lower.
Sound quality: 9.5/10
Build quality: 8.5/10
Comfort: 9/10
Accessories: 6/10
Overall, I'm very happy with these headphones. Definitely would recommend for anyone looking for an audio upgrade in the mid-high tier.
[Edit - One month after purchase: Buy these. You won't regret it. Seriously. If you're looking for a more flat response, the DT880s may be a better choice, but these are extremely good at what they do and frankly I would choose these again, recommend them to everyone I know, and give them as gifts. Even for $200, these are great. Total bargain.]
The long -
What do I like?
Sound - Pristine reproduction, almost completely uncolored. Pure, clean bass and excellent sound imaging. Instrument / performer location is nearly transparent with these, creating a wide soundstage. A great test album for these 'phones is the Bill Evans Trio album "Exporations". "Nardis", "Israel" and "Elsa" feature some very low acoustic bass from Scott LaFaro and very delicate brush work on the drums. These are the first headphones that I have heard that reproduce this so well. Classical music sounds excellent as well - John Eliot Gardiner's recording of Beethoven's Symphonies on period instruments is ridiculous on these. It sounds so good! Modern rock is also handled with ease - uncolored and clear. Perfect bass response, and when you want a boost in the bass, the DT990s handle the extra kick easily. I used the EQ on my headphone amp to boost the bass as a test, and found no problems or muddiness. IMHO, these phone do not need the bass boosted - they sound great with no EQ.
Comfort - The most comfortable headphones I have worn. I don't think there is any problem here for anyone.
Construction - Okay, these are only a few weeks old. I cannot attest to the long-term durability. I can say that they appear ot built very well. The cord is heavy and appears to be durable. The constuction is solid, yet lightweight. I think it'll do just fine over time.
Comparison - I do NOT own 43 different pairs of expensive headphones. (As it seems many reviewers claim to own!) I have one other pair of "real" headphones; Grado mid-priced (~$100) headphones that sound great as well. The DT 990 kills them, leaves them in the dust so to speak - as they should for the price difference! (But I still love the Grados!) What I was able to do a few months ago was visit this absurd electrincs shop in Tokyo (Akihabara) and audition a ton of 'phones with my own MP3 files. The DT 900s were among them. The only headphones that I thought were this good were the Sennheiser's with "wood-trim" and the DT 880. (Sorry, I forgot the model number of the Sennheiser) I cannot give you a run-down of this model compared to that model ad infinitum. The DT 990s sounded better (to me) than many 'phones costing quite a bit more - some AKGs (I think the Quincy Jones model) and Audio Technica were hundreds more expensive and IMHO were inferior to these. I can tell you that I love the sound of these and do not regret buying them.
I am not going to comment on noise isolation. These are open type 'phones, as anyone intelligent enough to read has already discovered in the product description. If you are reading this and don't know what that means, do an internet search on that term.
Plus that, they are GERMAN made and engineered! (If you don't know it by now, literally every product made in Germany is superior to similar products made elsewhere with one exception - dental floss.) This product again reinforces my admiration for German engineering. Simply awesome product!
I hope that this review helps you to decide what to buy. I had a very difficult time deciding, and had the good fortune of being able to visit Tokyo prior to buying. I was able to audition dozens of headphones in a store there, Akihabara. I don't think that you will find that here in the US. (If there was a store like that here, all of the audition headphones would either be broken or stolen, sadly.)
Update - December 30, 2012 -
Fantastic 'phones!!!! I am fully aware that nearly all headphones exhibit some type of "break-in" where the audio qualities may change slightly after some hours of use. I can only say that the Beyerdynamics sound better to me than they did a month ago. Hard to qualify that, really... I think that they sound more "open" and transparent. Excellent 'phones, no change in my opinion from earlier. Just a very fine audio product and the best headphones I have heard. Easily in the category of "Would buy again."
Update - January 2014 -
Better than ever - cannot knock these at all. Worth the money, sound great, look and feel as good as the day they were new. Sound better than new. Very happy with these after living with them a bit now...
I recently bought the much cheaper Bro' of these Beyerdynamic DTX 910 Stereo Headphones for Portable and Home usage (Silver Black) for use away from home, and am very pleased with those for $70.
Top reviews from other countries
Ho rodato queste cuffie per circa 21 ore e devo dire che la qualità é quella promessa. L’ho collegata a un Nad 302 e a un cd player Rotel r c d 975 (anni 90) il suono é compatto e coerente, gli acuti non escono mai fuori dal seminato la gamma media é perfetta e i bassi sono molto godibili.▫️La costruzione poi é esemplare quasi tutta in metallo. La Beyerdynamic sa come tener testa a modelli di altri brand molto più costosi & famosi.▫️Sono felicissimo di questo acquisto.▫️Rapporto qualità prezzo elevatissimo !
Varm rekommendation.
Une réponse en fréquence pas plate, il est généreux (sans exagération) dans les basses et un peu dans les aigus aussi. Je préfère ça à un casque trop "plat" comme le DT-880 qui va me faire augmenter les basses fréquences dans un mix exagérément.
Rappelons que nos oreilles ont moins de sensibilité dans les extrémités du spectre, et ça s'accentue avec l'âge. J'ai essayé et possédé beaucoup de casques, et celui-là reste mon préféré.