COMPARISON OF OUR OPEN-BACK STUDIO HEADPHONES
DT 990 PRO X vs. DT 990 PRO vs. DT 900 PRO X vs. DT 1990 PRO MKII
If you’re interested in open-back studio headphones, you’ll quickly notice: there’s a wide range to choose from – and the differences often lie in the details. To help you find the model that truly fits your workflow, it’s worth taking a closer look at each variant.
In this blog post, we compare our German-made open-back studio headphones in terms of sound, technology, and design. Included in the lineup: the new DT 990 PRO X. We’ll show you how it differs from other open-back headphones in our studio portfolio – and which model best suits your everyday studio needs.
INHALTSVERZEICHNIS
Application
All the models compared here are open-back studio headphones and, thanks to their design, offer an especially airy, natural, and spacious sound. While the DT 990 PRO and DT 990 PRO X are specifically designed for critical listening and editing, the DT 900 PRO X and DT 1990 PRO MKII are also ideal for mixing and mastering.
They deliver transparent sound reproduction with a realistic stereo image – perfect for anyone who relies on the most accurate sound assessment in their work.
Sound
DT 990 PRO X vs. DT 900 PRO
Both models share a similar sound signature: bright, analytical, and with impressive spatial depth – ideal for critical listening and precise editing.
The DT 990 PRO X is the open-back counterpart to the DT 770 PRO X and features our new STELLAR.45 driver with 48 ohms. The result: an extended frequency response from 5–40,000 Hz, low total harmonic distortion (THD), and detailed, dynamic playback across a variety of playback devices.
The classic DT 990 PRO has been a studio standard for decades. Its open design and wide stereo image make it a top choice for musicians, producers, and sound engineers around the world.
DT 990 PRO X vs. DT 900 PRO X
Both models use the STELLAR.45 driver but differ in tuning. The DT 990 PRO X has a slightly brighter sound and offers a wider stereo stage – ideal for analytical listening and editing. The DT 900 PRO X is tuned more neutrally and, thanks to its balanced sound profile, is perfectly suited for mixing, mastering, and long sessions without listener fatigue.
DT 990 PRO X vs. DT 1990 PRO MKII
The DT 990 PRO X delivers an airy, transparent sound with a slight treble boost and a wide stereo image. With its analytical tuning, it acts as a kind of “sonic magnifying glass”: the finest details and imperfections in a mix become audible and can be corrected with precision. Especially when used alongside studio monitors, the DT 990 PRO X is an excellent complementary tool.
The DT 1990 PRO MKII offers a more balanced overall sound with an even higher resolution across the entire frequency spectrum. The bass is deep and controlled, mids and highs are clearly defined. Its precise spatial imaging makes it the ideal headphone for reference-level mixing and mastering.
Impedance
Both the DT 990 PRO X and the DT 900 PRO X are equipped with the modern STELLAR.45 driver and feature an impedance of 48 ohms. The combination of a powerful neodymium magnet and an ultra-light, copper-plated voice coil enables exceptionally fine sound resolution with minimal distortion. Thanks to their low impedance, both models can be easily driven by a wide range of devices – from audio interfaces in home studios to mobile playback devices or professional monitoring systems.
The DT 990 PRO is available in two impedance versions. The 80-ohm version is ideal for use with typical audio interfaces or mixing consoles in home and project studios, while the 250-ohm version fully unleashes its sonic potential in professional studios with powerful headphone amplifiers.
Learn more: Want to dive deeper into the topic of impedance and how it affects headphone performance? In this blog post you’ll find all the relevant information and helpful tips on what to consider when buying headphones.
For the highest level of sonic precision, the DT 1990 PRO MKII is the go-to choice. It features two German-made TESLA.45 drivers and, with an impedance of 30 ohms, offers exceptionally high efficiency, outstanding detail reproduction, and a distortion-free sound – even at high volumes. This makes the DT 1990 PRO MKII the ideal choice for professional applications such as mixing, mastering, and reference listening in the studio.
Design und Ausstattung
DT 990 PRO X vs. DT 990 PRO
Compared to the iconic DT 990 PRO, the DT 990 PRO X offers a range of modern design upgrades tailored to the needs of today’s musicians, sound engineers, and producers. Instead of a fixed cable, the DT 990 PRO X comes with a detachable 3-meter straight cable featuring a lockable mini-XLR connector – ideal for flexible workflows and easy cable replacement in everyday studio use.
Another comfort upgrade: the newly developed headband padding with a fontanelle recess, which effectively reduces pressure points during long sessions. In terms of included accessories, both models are equally equipped: a carrying pouch and a 6.35 mm (¼”) adapter are included.
DT 990 PRO X vs. DT 900 PRO X
The DT 990 PRO X and DT 900 PRO X both feature the powerful STELLAR.45 driver system and come with a detachable cable and lockable mini-XLR connector – a clear advantage for studio flexibility. While the DT 990 PRO X design echoes the iconic look of the classic DT 990 PRO, the DT 900 PRO X presents a distinct, modern aesthetic. A practical everyday detail: the DT 900 PRO X includes not only a 3-meter cable but also a shorter 1.8-meter cable, ideal for desktop use or on-the-go listening.
DT 990 PRO X vs. DT 1990 PRO MKII
Both the DT 990 PRO X and the DT 1990 PRO MKII offer premium features and excellent build quality, making them well-suited for professional studio use – though they differ significantly in application and target audience. The DT 990 PRO X impresses with its rugged design, detachable mini-XLR cable, and high wearing comfort – ideal for engineers and musicians who value flexibility and long-lasting quality.
The DT 1990 PRO MKII is aimed at professional sound engineers and musicians who demand maximum precision. Premium materials, anodized metal components, and two sound tuning options via interchangeable ear pads make it the reference model among beyerdynamic’s open-back studio headphones. The included “Producing Velours” pads provide a fuller sound with subtle bass enhancement, while the “Mixing & Mastering Velours” offer a more analytical tuning. Two included cables – a 3-meter straight cable and a 5-meter coiled cable – along with a sturdy hard case complete the package.
Whether you’re looking for open-back studio headphones for analytical listening, detailed editing, or precise mixing and mastering – within our DT studio headphone portfolio, you’re sure to find the model that meets your sonic needs and fits your workflow.
