My Experience With Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO
In 2006, a friend recommended I try a new pair of headphones for my music production needs. I needed something decent sounding, and comfortable to wear, for at least a couple of hours a day. And I laid my eyes upon the Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO. Let’s begin!
About Beyerdynamic
It all started with the talkie: electrical engineer Eugen Beyer started his own company in Berlin in 1924 to build cinema speakers. His “Elektrotechnische Fabrik Eugen Beyer” laid the foundations for a world leading manufacturer of headphones, microphones and conference systems.
Today the name Beyerdynamic is synonymous with a wide range of high quality and professional audio products, which includes microphones and headphones for professional studio or stage application, as well as for high-end music listening at home or an ideal companion for the best possible sound on the go.
Some Specifications
- Open-back studio reference headphones for mixing and mastering
- 250 ohms, 45-mm dynamic Tesla neodymium driver
- Headphone frequency response 5-40,000 Hz
- Nominal sound pressure level 102 dB SPL (1mW/500Hz)
My Personal Thoughts
For the last 10 years, I used the DT990’s, the predecessor of the DT 1990’s. My first pair was used for about 8 years, which is still working to this day, just needs a new headband and ear pads never failed me once. Then I got a new pair of DT990’s about 2 years ago for my daily use. Before I get on to the topic at hand, the DT 1990 PRO, let me first explain something about headphones; when it comes to mixing and production, you need open back headphones. Open back sound more natural, balanced, and are more comfortable for longer use. Having headphones sit over your ears is the only type you should wear. The DT990’s were super transparent, clean, balanced, and the sound that the Tesla drivers produced were exceptional. I managed to land these Beyerdynamic DT 1990 PRO from our friends at AVL Electronics. There are significant improvements in design, comfort, and look.
The DT1990’s out of the box just feels natural to wear. The exterior is equipped with high end and rugged material, which is also equipped with a detachable cable, which I think is nice. The Tesla drivers really produce what I think is by far the best sound in its range. Compared to the 990’s, the 1990’s are able to produce a significantly cleaner low end, and the top end is sharper which gives you the ability to zone in and balance it out. I find the midrange as always on the DTs, by far the most transparent out there. Also, the overall listening level without using a headphone amplifier on the DT1990’s feels slightly louder than the 990s, thanks to the Tesla driver technology. Overall, the DT1990’s is a professional studio grade pair of headphones, that could easily play an integral part in your production workflow or use it for your Mixing & Mastering applications. A wonderful way to A/B your music. If you are eager to get an idea of what mixing & mastering is or want to begin you can check out our mixing tips!
Client:AVL Electronics
Agency: At The Chamber
Creative Director and Concept Designer: At The Chamber
