Why are the beyerdynamic dt 990 pro hated/dislike in the Audio community?

Why are the beyerdynamic dt 990 pro hated/dislike in the Audio community?

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro headphones are generally regarded as solid, high-quality headphones, particularly within the open-back category, but they do have a certain reputation and not everyone in the audio community is a fan of them. Some of the criticism stems from a few design choices, sound signature characteristics, and the fit that make them less ideal for certain users or use cases.

Here’s why some people dislike or criticize the DT 990 Pro:

1. Treble (High-End) Peaks

• One of the most frequent criticisms of the DT 990 Pro is its boosted treble. The headphones have a distinct V-shaped sound signature, with emphasized bass and treble, but the treble peaks can be harsh or sibilant for some listeners, especially with poorly recorded or overly bright material.
• This boost in the upper frequencies can lead to fatigue for extended listening sessions, particularly for people who are sensitive to high-end frequencies.
• The sharpness or brightness of the treble can be particularly jarring when listening to music that already has a lot of high-frequency content (e.g., acoustic music, classical, or certain genres of rock and pop).

2. Bass Response (Sub-bass Emphasis)

• While the bass is generally punchy and deep, it can sometimes feel a bit over-emphasized in comparison to the midrange. This can create an unbalanced sound for some listeners, particularly those who prefer a more neutral, accurate reproduction of audio.
• The bass may also be a bit boomy and may bleed into the midrange, making the overall sound feel less clear or muddy for some users, especially in complex tracks with a lot of low-end activity.

3. Soundstage and Imaging

• While the DT 990 Pro’s open-back design theoretically offers a wider soundstage compared to closed-back headphones, it doesn’t always perform as well as some other open-back headphones in terms of imaging (the ability to accurately place sounds in space).
• The soundstage is wide, but some people feel the separation between instruments or the clarity of the imaging isn’t as precise as they would like, particularly compared to other open-back headphones like the Sennheiser HD 600 or Audeze series.

4. Comfort and Fit

• Comfort is a subjective issue, but some users report that the earpads of the DT 990 Pro feel too small or shallow for their ears. The clamping force can also be too strong, leading to discomfort during long listening sessions.
• The headband is also a point of contention for some. It’s a bit on the stiffer side, and combined with the heavy clamping force, it can feel tight or uncomfortable for certain head shapes.
• Additionally, the velour ear pads can feel a little cool or not as breathable as other materials, which can cause heat build-up over time, making them less comfortable in hot environments.

5. Build Quality

• While the build quality is generally good and sturdy, the plastic frame can feel a bit cheap compared to other premium headphones at the same price point.
• The headband adjustment mechanism is made of plastic, which can give a creaky feeling when adjusting, and some feel that it’s not as robust as it could be.

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6. Specialized Usage

• The DT 990 Pro is often seen as more of a “specialist” headphone rather than an all-arounder. They work well for casual listening and critical listening in a controlled, quiet environment, but they’re less suited for studio monitoring or mixing where a flat, neutral response is often desired. The emphasis on bass and treble can skew the accuracy of sound for professional use.
• Because of the treble peaks and bass boost, they might not be ideal for people who need accurate, uncolored sound for tasks like audio production, mixing, or mastering.

7. High Impedance (250 Ohm Model)

• The 250-ohm version of the DT 990 Pro requires a more powerful headphone amplifier to reach its full potential. While it’s not a huge deal for audiophiles who already have powerful DAC/amp setups, it can be an inconvenience for users with portable devices, smartphones, or low-power audio sources.
• Some people find it frustrating that the DT 990 Pro needs a decent amplification setup to sound optimal, as it’s not very efficient on its own. The 32-ohm version addresses this issue but still doesn’t appeal to everyone.

8. Target Audience & Expectations

• The DT 990 Pro is often marketed as a headphone suited for audiophiles, studio professionals, and enthusiasts, but its sound signature (with the treble boost and bass emphasis) can feel more colored than those looking for a neutral or accurate reference headphone.
• Some audiophiles and professionals prefer headphones that are closer to flat in their sound signature for critical listening, mixing, or mastering, and the DT 990 Pro doesn’t fit into that mold perfectly due to its more “fun” and exciting sound signature.

Summary of Criticisms

• Bright, harsh treble can be fatiguing or sibilant.
• Bass boost can feel boomy or overemphasized.
• Fit and comfort issues due to the clamping force and ear pad design.
• Imaging and separation may not be as precise as other open-back options.
• Plastic build quality may not feel premium compared to higher-end headphones.
• Impedance requires a powerful amplifier for optimal performance.

Who Might Like the DT 990 Pro?

Despite the criticisms, the DT 990 Pro is still widely appreciated by many for:

• Casual listening or enjoying genres that benefit from a V-shaped sound signature (e.g., EDM, rock, pop).
• Those who enjoy a wider soundstage and a dynamic, punchy sound.
• Audiophiles on a budget looking for open-back headphones that provide an immersive experience without breaking the bank.
• People who are looking for comfortable, long-term listening sessions (assuming the fit is suitable).

In short, while the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is far from universally loved, it definitely has a strong following among those who appreciate its open-back design, sound signature, and value for money. The criticisms usually center around personal preferences regarding sound characteristics (especially the treble), comfort, and use case.

1. Why does everyone use DT 990 Pro?

The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is popular for several reasons:

• Affordable: It offers a good balance between performance and price, especially for open-back headphones.
• Sound Signature: The V-shaped sound (boosted bass and treble) is energetic and exciting, making it appealing to many listeners who enjoy a lively sound.
• Wide Soundstage: Being open-back, it offers a spacious and immersive soundstage, great for casual listening and gaming.
• Comfort: The velour ear pads and overall design are relatively comfortable for long listening sessions, making it a common choice for those who spend a lot of time wearing headphones.
• Durability and Reliability: Beyerdynamic is known for making high-quality, durable products, and the DT 990 Pro is no exception.
• Versatile for Audio Enthusiasts: While it’s not perfectly neutral, its character is still relatively balanced for a variety of music genres, from classical to electronic.

2. Do DT990 Pros need an amp?

Yes, the DT 990 Pro headphones, especially the 250-ohm version, do require a dedicated headphone amplifier to drive them properly. While they can work with devices like smartphones or laptops, they will sound much better and reach their full potential with an amp, which provides the necessary power to drive the high impedance. The 80-ohm version is less demanding and can be used with less powerful sources, but still benefits from amplification for optimal performance.

3. Which country made Beyerdynamic?

Beyerdynamic is a German company, founded in Berlin, Germany, in 1924. It is one of the oldest and most respected audio equipment manufacturers, known for producing high-quality headphones, microphones, and other audio devices.

4. Is the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro USB?

No, the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro is not a USB headphone. It uses standard 3.5mm or 1/4″ (6.35mm) audio plugs for connection. If you’re looking for USB headphones, you’d need to explore other models specifically designed for USB connections (e.g., gaming headsets with built-in soundcards).

5. What is the difference between 250 ohm and 80 ohm?

The main difference between the 250-ohm and 80-ohm versions of the DT 990 Pro lies in impedance:

• 250-ohm Version: Requires more power to drive properly and is typically used with a dedicated amplifier or high-powered audio source (e.g., a desktop amp or audio interface). It can deliver better sound quality, with improved clarity, especially at higher volumes.
• 80-ohm Version: Easier to drive with lower-powered devices like smartphones, laptops, or portable audio players. While it doesn’t have the same level of sound refinement as the 250-ohm version, it still offers good performance and can be used without needing an external amplifier.

Summary: If you have a powerful amplifier or audio interface, the 250-ohm version will provide better overall sound quality. The 80-ohm version is more versatile for portable use without needing an amp.

6. Is DT 990 Pro good for mixing and mastering?

The DT 990 Pro is generally not ideal for mixing and mastering because of its V-shaped sound signature, which emphasizes bass and treble while potentially muddying up the midrange. In mixing and mastering, a more neutral and flat-response headphone is usually preferred to provide an accurate representation of the audio.

However, some people use the DT 990 Pro for casual or light mixing, as it offers good clarity in the high-end and decent bass. But for professional audio work, headphones like the Sennheiser HD 600/650 or Beyerdynamic DT 880 Pro (which are more neutral) are generally preferred.

7. What is the difference between 980 Pro and 990 Pro?

The DT 980 Pro and DT 990 Pro are very similar but with one key difference:

• DT 980 Pro: This model is a closed-back headphone, offering better isolation from the outside world and less sound leakage. It is a good option for people who want the quality of the DT 990 Pro with better noise isolation (e.g., in noisy environments or for recording).
• DT 990 Pro: The DT 990 Pro is open-back, which means it has a more natural and wide soundstage, but it does not provide any isolation and lets sound leak in and out.

Both share similar sound signatures (V-shaped with boosted bass and treble), but the DT 980 Pro will isolate better from external noise.

8. Why do all streamers use the same headphones?

Many streamers tend to use similar headphones, like the Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro or Audio-Technica ATH-M50x, for several reasons:

1. Clear Sound for Streaming: The DT 990 Pro has a wide soundstage and clear highs, making it great for listening to game audio, commentary, and music during streams.
2. Comfort: These headphones are comfortable for long streaming sessions, making them ideal for those who wear them for several hours at a time.
3. Durability: Beyerdynamic headphones are known for their build quality and long-lasting performance, which is essential for streamers who need reliable gear.
4. Affordability for Quality: While not cheap, the DT 990 Pro offers a high-quality sound at a relatively affordable price for its performance, making it a popular choice for streamers who need high-end audio without spending a fortune.
5. Familiarity: Many streamers and content creators tend to follow trends or recommendations from fellow streamers. As a result, popular headphones like the DT 990 Pro become a common choice within the community.

In summary: The DT 990 Pro is popular because of its sound quality, comfort, build, and relatively affordable price compared to other high-end headphones. It’s a versatile choice for casual listening, gaming, and streaming, which is why it’s often favored by streamers.

Why are the beyerdynamic dt 990 pro hated/dislike in the Audio community?