The DT 990 PRO is the open-back studio headphone for critical listening and precise editing. For decades, it has been a trusted reference among audio professionals – known for its spacious, detailed sound and remarkable transparency. A true “sonic magnifier,” it reveals even the smallest flaws in a mix – perfect for critical evaluation and correction. Handcrafted in Germany. An icon – trusted for generations.
REVEALS WHAT OTHERS CONCEAL
When every detail matters, the DT 990 PRO delivers the clarity you need. Its open design, brilliant highs and precise spatial imaging make even subtle noise, clipping or digital artifacts audible – perfect for professional editing and critical listening.
EXTREME COMFORT
The single-sided cable allows the headphones to be put on and taken off frequently without cables getting tangled, and soft, adjustable ear cups provide for added comfort. The robust spring steel headband design ensures that the over-ear headphones also offer a secure fit.
DIFFERENCE COMPARED
TO THE DT 990 PRO
Soundwise, both models are identical as they feature identically designed acoustic transducers. First of all, they are distinguished by the black design elements and secondly, the Black Edition model is equipped with a straight 3m cable and the standard version with a spiral cable.
In professional environments, one thing matters above all: reliability. The DT 990 PRO has been handcrafted in Germany for decades – built with care, expertise, and materials made to last.
What does that mean for you? A headphone that won’t quit, even after years of daily use. And if something does need replacing – every part is serviceable. No throwaway product, no compromises – just a tool that’s with you every step of the way.
The DT 990 PRO, DT 990 PRO X, DT 900 PRO X, and DT 1990 PRO MKII (open-back) are generally well-suited for gaming and streaming.
For use in combination with a microphone, we recommend closed-back headphones, as they provide better isolation from external noise and reduce sound leakage into the microphone. Open-back models offer a more spacious and natural soundstage but may bleed into sensitive microphones and cause feedback at high volumes.
What is the difference between the classic DT models and the PRO X models?
Classic DT models like the DT 770 PRO or DT 990 PRO have been studio standards for decades. They are available in various impedance versions to ensure optimal compatibility—whether you're using a compact interface in a home studio or a professional setup with a headphone amplifier.
The PRO X models, on the other hand, feature the STELLAR.45 driver, developed in Germany. This modern driver design ensures consistent sound quality across a wide range of playback devices—from mobile gear to high-end studio amplifiers. With an impedance of 48 ohms, they are especially versatile.
Additionally, PRO X models come with detachable cables, whereas the classic DT models have fixed cables. All models are handcrafted in Germany and designed for long-term use, thanks to their replaceable components.
Which ist the best headphone for mixing and mastering?
For mixing and mastering, open-back headphones are typically the preferred choice, as they offer a natural sense of space and an uncolored representation of the frequency spectrum. The DT 900 PRO X delivers a particularly linear and precise sound image, making it ideal for these tasks. For those seeking maximum detail and resolution, the DT 1990 PRO MKII is a high-end option, offering excellent depth, clear bass, and detailed highs.
While models like the DT 990 PRO and DT 990 PRO X also feature an open design and outstanding spatial imaging, they are primarily intended for critical listening and precise editing, rather than tonal balancing during mixing.
As a closed-back alternative, the DT 700 PRO X is a strong candidate. Thanks to its linear sound tuning, it can also be used for mixing—especially in environments where open-back headphones are not acoustically feasible.
What are the differences between the PRO and Edition models?
The PRO models (DT 770 PRO, DT 880 PRO, DT 990 PRO) are designed for professional applications, e.g. in the recording studio. The Edition models are suitable for use at home on the stereo system. The corresponding models of both product families PRO and Edition are hardly distinguishable in terms of sound, as long as they have the same impedance (e.g. DT 880 Edition / 250 Ohm and DT 880 PRO / 250 Ohm sound the same). The DT 990 Edition and the DT 990 PRO (in the 250 Ohm version) sound identical. The identical transducers are used. However, the Edition models have a slightly softer contact pressure for comfortable music enjoyment at home, while the Pro headphones sit a little tighter on the head to stay in place even during faster movements in everyday studio use. In addition, the Pro version comes with a coiled cable and the Edition version with a stretched cable. In addition, the Edition version is available in three different impedances.
