Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro
The open-back DT 990 Pro is a budget route to open-back mixing and a strong value in the enthusiast tier. The open design opens up the soundstage but bleeds freely, ruling it out for tracking, and its 250-ohm impedance needs a proper headphone amp rather than a weak output. For mixing on a budget with adequate drive on tap, it's a long-standing favorite.
Scores
BreakdownHideOverall73±3Caliber-forward blend — tier caliber + within-tier price rank 30%, value 25%, confidence 20%, compatibility 15%, upgrade path 10% — renormalized over applicable dimensions; excluded here: compatibility (no ecosystem dimension).
Scores
BreakdownHideCaliber-forward blend — tier caliber + within-tier price rank 30%, value 25%, confidence 20%, compatibility 15%, upgrade path 10% — renormalized over applicable dimensions; excluded here: compatibility (no ecosystem dimension).
The ± band on the overall score reflects sourcing confidence — wider when fewer specs are verified.
How each score is computed: our scoring methodology.
Specifications
| Spec | Value | Verification |
|---|---|---|
| design | openSourced | Sourced |
| impedance ohms | 250Sourced | Sourced |
2/2 detail specs sourced. Amber rows are flagged for verification — we show them as reported, not confirmed.
Verdict
Best for
- Open-back mixing on a budget
Who should skip this
- Tracking (open bleed); weak headphone amps (250Ω)
Where to buy
List price $144
Prices are a guide and can change — confirm the current price on the retailer's site before buying.
Prices last checked Jun 15, 2026 — retailer prices change often, so click through for the current price.
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Compatibility
No platform-specific compatibility requirements — this works in any standard music production setup.
Upgrade path
A solid enthusiast pick that carries into higher-tier setups as your needs grow.