If you're in the market for high-end studio headphones that deliver exceptional sound quality, the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro should be at the top of your list. With a price tag of $529.00, these headphones are an investment, but for serious audiophiles and professionals, they are worth every penny. In this review, we will delve into various aspects of the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro, including sound quality, comfort, noise cancellation, battery life, connectivity, and price.
Sound Quality
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro headphones are renowned for their outstanding sound quality. Equipped with 45 mm dynamic Tesla neodymium drivers, these headphones offer a frequency response range of 5 Hz to 40 kHz. This wide range ensures that you'll hear every detail in your music, from the deepest bass to the highest treble.
One of the standout features of the DT 1990 Pro is its ability to deliver an incredibly detailed and accurate soundstage. This makes them perfect for mixing and mastering, as well as for listening to classical music, where the spatial arrangement of instruments is crucial. Users have praised the headphones for their clarity and precision, noting that they can pick up nuances in recordings that other headphones might miss.
However, it's worth noting that the DT 1990 Pro is considered to be on the brighter side. There is a noticeable spike in the treble region around 8 kHz, which can be problematic for those sensitive to high frequencies. Some users have found this brightness uncomfortable for long listening sessions, but this can be mitigated with EQ adjustments.
Comfort
Comfort is a critical factor when it comes to studio headphones, especially for long sessions. The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro excels in this area with its soft, replaceable ear pads and headband. The headphones come with two sets of ear pads: analytical and well-balanced. This allows users to choose the pads that best suit their preferences and needs.
The ear pads are made from high-quality materials that provide a comfortable fit without causing fatigue. The headphones are also relatively lightweight at 1.5 pounds, making them suitable for extended use. Users have reported that the DT 1990 Pro remains comfortable even during long studio sessions, thanks to its ergonomic design.
Noise Cancellation
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro is an open-back headphone, which means it does not offer active noise cancellation (ANC). Open-back headphones are designed to provide a more natural and spacious sound, but they do allow external noise to enter. This makes them less suitable for noisy environments but ideal for quiet studio settings where sound isolation is not a primary concern.
For those who require noise cancellation, the DT 1990 Pro may not be the best choice. However, the open-back design contributes to the headphones' excellent soundstage and overall audio quality, making them a preferred option for critical listening and professional use.
Battery Life
As a wired headphone, the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro does not have a battery and therefore does not require charging. This eliminates the need to worry about battery life, making them a reliable choice for long studio sessions or extended listening periods.
Connectivity
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro features a single-sided, detachable cable with mini-XLR connectors. The headphones come with two pairs of cables: a 3-meter straight cable and a coiled cable. This provides flexibility in different usage scenarios, whether you're in the studio or on the go.
The detachable cable design also enhances the durability of the headphones, as it allows for easy replacement of the cable if it becomes damaged. The mini-XLR connectors ensure a secure and stable connection, minimizing the risk of audio dropouts.
Price
At $529.00, the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro is a premium product with a price to match. While this may seem steep, the headphones offer exceptional value for money, given their superior sound quality, comfort, and build. For professionals and serious audiophiles, the investment is justified by the performance and durability of these headphones.
Additional Features
The DT 1990 Pro comes with a premium hard case for storage and transport, ensuring that your headphones are protected when not in use. The headphones are also highly repairable, with parts readily available for nearly all components. This makes them a long-term investment, as you can easily replace worn-out parts rather than buying a new pair of headphones.
Conclusion
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro is a top-tier choice for those seeking high-quality studio headphones. With their exceptional sound quality, comfortable design, and durable build, they are well-suited for professional use and critical listening. While they may not be the best option for those who need noise cancellation or are sensitive to bright treble, their overall performance makes them a standout product in the market.
If you're serious about your audio experience and are willing to invest in a pair of headphones that deliver on all fronts, the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro is an excellent choice. Whether you're mixing and mastering in the studio or enjoying your favorite classical recordings, these headphones will not disappoint.
