Side by side
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro MKII vs Sennheiser HD 490 Pro
Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro MKII
32 positive (94%) · 2 mixed (6%) · 0 negative (0%)
Trust + time weighted: +96%
AI summary — not a quote
The Beyerdynamic DT 1990 Pro MKII is highly regarded as a precision-driven monitoring tool that improves upon its predecessor with a more refined tonal balance. It is characterized by its exceptional speed, transparency, and technical integrity, powered by updated 45mm Tesla driver technology. While it maintains a bright and analytical signature, users note it is highly scalable and sensitive to source equipment, allowing it to shift from a clinical monitoring tool to a more musical experience depending on the DAC/amp pairing.
Pros
- Extremely fast transient response and agile bass control
- High level of transparency and micro-detail retrieval
- Precise imaging and accurate spatial placement
- Low impedance makes it easier to drive while remaining highly scalable
Cons
- Energetic treble can be perceived as sharp or overly bright with analytical sources
- May lack the 'smooth' or 'musical' warmth found in consumer-tuned headphones like Sony
Top excerpts
With the Sony player, it becomes more musical and relaxed. Bass response gains a subtle sense of body compared to more analytical sources. The low end remains tight and controlled, but the Sony output adds a slight warmth that enhances perceived weight.
The DT1990 PRO MKII represents Beyerdynamic’s continued commitment to precision driven monitoring with a refined tonal balance compared to its predecessor. Built around Tesla driver technology, it delivers a highly resolving and dynamic presentation that is particularly sensitive to source characteristics.
It's a great experience, but for me, not as smooth and musical as a Sony. Both help you feel different emotional timbres for different music genres.
The DT1990 PRO MKII's low frequency response is an example of control and discipline.Sub bass extension is present and can reach low frequencies without artificial boosting. There's a clear sense of depth, especially in well recorded electronic and cinematic material.
The DT1990 PRO MKII establishes its identity through precision, control, and exceptionally well managed driver response.
Sennheiser HD 490 Pro
484 positive (81%) · 78 mixed (13%) · 36 negative (6%)
Trust + time weighted: +75%
AI summary — not a quote
The Sennheiser HD 490 Pro is widely praised as a professional-grade open-back headphone that prioritizes extreme comfort and a neutral, analytical sound signature. Users frequently highlight its exceptional soundstage and imaging, making it a favorite for both critical audio work like mixing and mastering, as well as competitive gaming. While its 'clinical' nature is a strength for professionals, some casual listeners find the sound profile 'boring' or 'thin,' particularly regarding bass impact and vocal warmth.
Pros
- Exceptional comfort and lightweight design suitable for all-day wear
- Excellent soundstage and precise imaging for gaming and professional monitoring
- Versatile sound tuning via two included sets of ear pads (Mixing and Producer)
- Highly responsive to EQ adjustments
Cons
- Sound signature can feel 'sterile' or 'flat' for casual music enjoyment
- Bass may lack the physical impact or 'thump' desired by bass-heavy listeners
- Upper frequencies can occasionally sound thin or brittle with certain pads
- Isolated reports of quality control issues
Top excerpts
If you have issues with comfort, the HD490 is about as good as it gets (as someone else said, quite similar to the Meze 109 Pro). I like the 490s quite a bit better (sound wise) than the HD6xx
You should be fine with anything from Sennheiser from 500 series, so HD560S/505/550, including possibly HD58X from american Drop store, and also HD490 Pro.
There are plenty of new models which I would consider though, but I haven't tested them yet, so I can't make a recommendation. Those would be HD490 Pro, HD550, and HD505.
and I haven't yet tried the most recent HD560S nor the highly praised HD490 Pro
There is also HD490 Pro which reportedly has lower clamp force, and is particularly comfortable