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The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm headphones deliver open-back sound with replaceable ear pads and a 3-meter cable. You might seek beyerdynamic dt 990 pro 80 alternatives if you need closed-back isolation or a different driver type. The list includes 6 options that share key specifications with the original model. These picks overlap in features like wired connections and over-ear fits. Some users prefer planar magnetic drivers for lower distortion. Others may want a closed design for noise isolation. The selected headphones maintain the studio monitoring focus of the DT 990 PRO. They offer similar comfort and connectivity for professional use. Each alternative addresses specific needs while keeping core specs consistent. You can choose based on your preferred soundstage or driver technology. The following recommendations highlight practical differences in build and audio reproduction.
How each alternative compares
FiiO FT1 Pro 95mm Planar Headphones
The FiiO FT1 Pro uses a 95mm planar magnetic driver, which is significantly larger than the dynamic drivers in the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO. This larger driver size often provides faster transient response and lower distortion. Like the DT 990, it is an open-back wired model designed for studio mixing and audiophile listening. However, it lacks the specific 80-ohm impedance rating of the Beyerdynamic, which may require different amplification. You should choose this if you want a wider soundstage and more detailed high-frequency reproduction. The trade-off is a potentially heavier build and a price point that places it in the premium category rather than the professional standard tier.
Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back
The Sennheiser HD 560 S is another open-back over-ear option, but it features a detachable cable, whereas the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO comes with a fixed 3-meter cable. The Sennheiser weighs 8.48 ounces, making it slightly lighter than the 9.5-ounce Beyerdynamic. It is designed for neutral sound reproduction, which differs from the Beyerdynamic's signature bright treble. Both are wired and target critical listening, but the HD 560 S prioritizes a flat frequency response for accurate monitoring. You might prefer this if you find the Beyerdynamic's sound too sharp. The detachable cable offers easier replacement, while the Beyerdynamic offers a longer standard cable length out of the box.
Philips Fidelio X2HR Open-Back Wired Headphones
The Philips Fidelio X2HR is an open-back wired headphone that weighs 13.4 ounces, making it heavier than the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO. It features a detachable cable, similar to the Sennheiser, offering repairability that the fixed-cable Beyerdynamic lacks. The X2HR is Hi-res certified, suggesting a focus on high-fidelity detail. It is positioned as a budget-friendly alternative for studio monitoring. You should consider this if you need a replaceable cable and pads but want a lower cost. The heavier weight might affect long-term comfort compared to the lighter Beyerdynamic. It shares the open-back design for a spacious soundstage but targets a different price segment while maintaining wired connectivity for professional use.
Shure Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones
The Shure SRH440A is a closed-back design, which is the primary difference from the open-back Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO. This closed design provides noise isolation, preventing sound leakage and blocking external noise, which the open Beyerdynamic cannot do. It is wired and over-ear, suitable for studio mixing and monitoring. The Shure weighs 9.01 ounces, slightly lighter than the Beyerdynamic's 9.5 ounces. You should choose this if you work in a noisy environment or need to isolate your audio. The trade-off is a less natural soundstage compared to the open Beyerdynamic. It offers reliable durability and balanced audio for professionals who prioritize isolation over spatial imaging.
Sennheiser HD 660S2 Open-Back Headphones
The Sennheiser HD 660S2 is an open-back over-ear headphone designed for audiophiles and gamers. It weighs 10.6 ounces, which is heavier than the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO. This model is noted for deep bass and a spacious soundstage, differing from the Beyerdynamic's brighter profile. It is wired and lacks a specified impedance in the data, but targets high-fidelity listening. You might pick this if you prefer a warmer, bass-heavy sound signature for music and gaming. The Beyerdynamic is often preferred for critical mixing due to its clarity. The HD 660S2 offers comfort for long sessions but targets a different sonic preference, emphasizing depth and spaciousness over the Beyerdynamic's analytical precision.
HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones
The HIFIMAN HE400SE uses a planar magnetic driver, offering low-distortion stereo sound. It is an open-back, over-ear wired headphone, similar in form factor to the Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO. However, it weighs 13.8 ounces, making it significantly heavier than the 9.5-ounce Beyerdynamic. The planar driver technology aims for accurate reproduction with minimal coloration. You should consider this if you prioritize driver technology and portable source compatibility. The Beyerdynamic is a standard dynamic driver model. The HIFIMAN offers a different sonic character with potentially faster response times. It targets audiophiles seeking detailed stereo imaging, though the weight may be a factor for extended listening sessions compared to the lighter Beyerdynamic.
| # | Product | Best for | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones Best overall | Studio mixing and critical listening | |
| 2 | FiiO FT1 Pro 95mm Planar Headphones Best premium | Audiophile listening and studio mixing | |
| 3 | Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back Also great | critical listening and studio monitoring | |
| 4 | Philips Fidelio X2HR Open-Back Wired Headphones Best budget | studio monitoring and hi-res wired listening | |
| 5 | Shure Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones Best closed-back | studio monitoring and mixing tasks | |
| 6 | Sennheiser HD 660S2 Open-Back Headphones Also great | Audiophiles and gamers seeking deep bass | |
| 7 | HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones Best stereo | Audiophiles seeking low-distortion planar sound |
Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones
Best for: Studio mixing and critical listening
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing, Gaming
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 8.7 × 4.7 × 9.1 inches
These open-back wired headphones feature an 80-ohm impedance designed for studio and home audio use. They deliver a wide frequency response from 5 to 35,000 Hz for detailed spatial imaging. The over-ear design weighs 9.5 ounces and includes a 3-meter cable with a 1/4-inch adapter. You get a natural soundstage suitable for critical listening and mixing tasks.
- 80-ohm impedance suits studio outputs and home setups
- 5–35,000 Hz frequency response for detailed audio
- Open-back design provides natural soundstage
- Replaceable circumaural ear pads for comfort
- Includes 3-meter cable with 1/4-inch adapter
- Heavier build at 9.5 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Open-back design offers less isolation than closed models
- Wired connection limits portability for mobile use
- You need a wired studio headphone for mixing
- You prefer open-back designs for wide soundstages
- You want replaceable parts for long-term use
- You require wireless connectivity for mobile use
- You need active noise cancellation for isolation
- You prefer lightweight headphones under 8 ounces
Verdict: Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm suits professionals needing accurate spatial imaging for mixing. It fits users who value replaceable comfort and wired reliability over portability.
FiiO FT1 Pro 95mm Planar Headphones
Best for: Audiophile listening and studio mixing
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Form Factor
- Open-Back
- Driver
- Planar Magnetic
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing
- Color
- Black
The FiiO FT1 Pro uses a 95x86mm planar magnetic driver with a 1μm ultra-thin diaphragm. This open-back wired design delivers a wide lateral soundstage and frequency response up to 40kHz. Weighing 374g, it suits audiophiles and studio mixing. The sapphire and aluminum dual-coating enhances resolution. You get precise capture of subtle musical nuances through its uniform magnetic field design.
- 95x86mm flat unit for wide soundstage
- 1μm ultra-thin PET diaphragm
- Frequency response up to 40kHz
- Sapphire and aluminum dual-coating
- Open-back wired connection
- 374g weight is heavier than typical dynamic drivers
- 95mm driver size is large for some head sizes
- Wired connection limits mobility
- You need high-resolution audio for studio mixing
- You prefer open-back sound for a wide soundstage
- You want detailed frequency response up to 40kHz
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You need a lightweight headphone under 300g
- You prefer closed-back isolation for noisy environments
Verdict: FiiO FT1 Pro Planar Magnetic Headphones fit audiophiles seeking detailed, wide-stage sound for critical listening. The large driver and high-resolution coating make it ideal for studio work where accuracy matters.
Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back
Best for: critical listening and studio monitoring
- Connectivity
- 3.5 mm, 6.3 mm
- Form Factor
- Over-The-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Audiophiles
- Color
- Black
The Sennheiser HD 560 S delivers neutral reference sound through open-back over-ear design. Its E.A.R. Technology tilts drivers for a wide soundstage and lifelike depth. You get extended low-end reach with clear bass performance. The headphones weigh 8.48 ounces and measure 6.06 inches in length. A detachable cable includes a 3.5mm jack adapter. This model suits audiophiles seeking accurate audio reproduction.
- Neutral frequency response for accurate sound
- Open-back design expands sound waves naturally
- E.A.R. Technology tilts drivers for wide soundstage
- Detachable cable with included 3.5mm adapter
- Heavier build at 8.48 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Larger physical dimensions with 6.06 inch length
- You prioritize neutral, reference-grade audio accuracy
- You use the headphones in a quiet home studio
- You prefer open-back designs for natural soundstage
- You need active noise cancellation for travel
- You require a lightweight option under 7 ounces
- You need a closed-back design for isolation
Verdict: Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back offers precise audio fidelity for critical listening. You should choose this if you value neutral sound reproduction over portability.
Philips Fidelio X2HR Open-Back Wired Headphones
Best for: studio monitoring and hi-res wired listening
- Connectivity
- 3. 5Mm Stereo; 1/4-Inch
- Form Factor
- Over The Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Connection
- Wired
- Features
- Detachable Cable
- Use
- Studio
The Philips Fidelio X2HR is an open-back, over-ear wired headphone designed for studio use. It features 50 mm neodymium drivers with an LMC diaphragm and Hi-res Audio certification for extended frequency response. The build includes a lightweight hammock headband with genuine leather and replaceable velour ear-pads. With a detachable 3.5 mm cable and a weight of 13.4 ounces, it offers a comfortable fit for long listening sessions.
- 50 mm high definition neodymium drivers
- Hi-res Audio certified
- Replaceable deluxe memory foam ear-pads
- Detachable 3.5 mm cable included
- Heavier at 13.4 ounces compared to lighter competitors
- Lower driver size than 60 mm or larger alternatives
- You want open-back sound for studio monitoring
- You prefer replaceable velour ear-pads for comfort
- You need a detachable cable for easy replacement
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You prefer closed-back isolation for noisy environments
- You want a lighter build under 12 ounces
Verdict: Philips Fidelio X2HR Open-Back Headphones suit listeners who prioritize driver quality and comfort for studio work. They are a solid choice if you value replaceable pads and Hi-res certification over wireless convenience.
Shure Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones
Best for: studio monitoring and mixing tasks
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Closed-Back
- Use
- Studio, Mixing
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 10 × 9.85 × 3.23 inches
The Shure SRH440A is a closed-back, over-ear wired headphone designed for studio monitoring and mixing. It features a balanced sound signature and an extended frequency response for accurate audio reproduction. The build includes a detachable locking cable and cushioned earcups for comfort. Weighing 9.01 ounces, it offers a collapsible design for portability. This model suits professionals needing reliable noise isolation and device compatibility.
- Closed-back design reduces ambient noise
- Balanced, detailed sound signature for monitoring
- Detachable locking cable for durability
- Collapsible design for easy storage
- Optimized impedance for various audio interfaces
- Heavier at 9.01 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Wired connection limits wireless mobility
- Standard closed-back isolation rather than open-back spaciousness
- You need closed-back isolation for studio monitoring
- You prefer a balanced, accurate sound signature
- You want a durable headphone with a detachable cable
- You require wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You prefer open-back headphones for a natural soundstage
- You need ultra-lightweight headphones under 8 ounces
Verdict: Shure SRH440A Closed-Back Studio Headphones provide reliable noise isolation and accurate monitoring for studio professionals. They fit users who prioritize wired durability and balanced audio over wireless convenience or open-back spaciousness.
Sennheiser HD 660S2 Open-Back Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles and gamers seeking deep bass
- Connectivity
- Wired
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Use
- Audiophiles, Gaming
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 3 × 7 × 7 inches
The Sennheiser HD 660S2 is an open-back over-ear headphone designed for audiophiles and gamers. It features 42mm transducers and an ultra-light aluminum voice coil to deliver detailed highs and deep bass down to 27.5 Hz. Weighing 10.6 ounces, it offers a spacious soundstage and plush ear cushions for long listening sessions. This model provides refined acoustic performance for desktop use.
- 42mm transducers with ultra-light aluminum voice coil
- Deep bass extension down to 27.5 Hz
- Open-back design for a spacious soundstage
- Plush ear cushions for fatigueless listening
- Heavier build at 10.6 ounces compared to lighter alternatives
- Open-back design limits sound isolation in noisy environments
- Fixed 3-inch length may not fit all head shapes
- You want deep bass extension for gaming or music
- You prefer open-back sound for a natural soundstage
- You need comfortable ear cushions for long sessions
- You require closed-back design for noise isolation
- You need a lightweight headphone under 8 ounces
- You prefer wireless connectivity over wired use
Verdict: Sennheiser HD 660S2 Open-Back suits listeners who prioritize deep bass and a spacious soundstage for long gaming or music sessions. It is ideal for those who value comfort and detailed highs in a wired setup.
HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones
Best for: Audiophiles seeking low-distortion planar sound
- Connectivity
- Wired, 3.5 mm, 6.35 mm adapter
- Form Factor
- Over-Ear
- Back Design
- Open-Back
- Driver
- Planar Magnetic
- Use
- Audiophiles, Studio
- Ear Style
- Stereo
The HIFIMAN HE400SE is an open-back, over-ear headphone featuring planar magnetic drivers. These drivers cover nearly the entire diaphragm, reducing distortion compared to conventional dynamic designs. The stealth magnet design minimizes wave diffraction for accurate sound. With high sensitivity, it pairs well with low-voltage portable sources. The lightweight headband aims for comfort during long sessions. It suits audiophiles seeking detailed, low-distortion stereo audio.
- Planar magnetic drivers for significantly lower distortion
- Acoustically invisible stealth magnets reduce wave interference
- High sensitivity matches low-voltage portable audio players
- Dual-sided 3.5mm cable with 6.35mm adapter included
- Heavier build at 13.8 ounces
- Wired connection limits mobility
- Open-back design does not isolate noise
- You want low-distortion planar magnetic sound
- You use low-voltage portable hi-res players
- You prefer open-back stereo audio for home
- You need wireless Bluetooth connectivity
- You require noise isolation for noisy environments
- You prefer lightweight dynamic driver headphones
Verdict: HIFIMAN HE400SE Planar Magnetic Headphones deliver accurate, low-distortion stereo sound for home listening. They fit users who prioritize driver technology and portable source compatibility over wireless convenience.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO 80 Ohm Headphones | FiiO FT1 Pro 95mm Planar Headphones | Sennheiser HD 560 S Open-Back | Philips Fidelio X2HR Open-Back Wired Headphones | Shure Over-Ear Wired Studio Headphones | Sennheiser HD 660S2 Open-Back Headphones | HIFIMAN Open-Back Planar Magnetic Headphones |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connectivity | Wired, 3.5 mm | Wired | 3.5 mm, 6.3 mm | 3. 5Mm Stereo; 1/4-Inch | Wired | Wired | Wired, 3.5 mm, 6.35 mm adapter |
| Form Factor | Over-Ear | Open-Back | Over-The-Ear | Over The Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Back Design | Open-Back | Open-Back | Open-Back | Open-Back | Closed-Back | Open-Back | Open-Back |
| Connection | Wired | Wired | – | Wired | Wired | – | Wired |
| Driver | – | Planar Magnetic | – | – | – | – | Planar Magnetic |
| Fit | Over-Ear | – | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear | Over-Ear |
| Features | – | – | Detachable Cable | Detachable Cable | – | – | – |
| Use | Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing, Gaming | Audiophiles, Studio, Mixing | Audiophiles | Studio | Studio, Mixing | Audiophiles, Gaming | Audiophiles, Studio |
| Color | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Black | Silver,Black |
| Ear Style | – | – | – | – | – | – | Stereo |
| Dimensions | 8.7 × 4.7 × 9.1 inches | – | 6.06 × 3.07 × 5.67 inches | 4.33 × 7.48 × 9.06 inches | 10 × 9.85 × 3.23 inches | 3 × 7 × 7 inches | 12 × 10.5 × 7.09 inches |
| Weight | 9.5 ounces | – | 8.48 ounces | 13.4 ounces | 9.01 ounces | 10.6 ounces | 13.8 ounces |
| Size | 80 OHM | 95 millimeters | size | Classic Fidelio | X2HR | One Size | Medium | – |
| Model | DT 990 PRO-cr | FT1 Pro | 615104356146 | X2HR/00 | SRH440A | 700240 | He400SE |
Frequently asked questions
Are there closed-back alternatives to the open-back DT 990 PRO?
Yes, the Shure SRH440A offers closed-back design for studio monitoring. This configuration provides reliable noise isolation, unlike the open-back DT 990 PRO. You should choose this if you prioritize wired durability and balanced audio over the spacious soundstage typical of open designs.
Which alternative uses a planar magnetic driver?
The FiiO FT1 Pro and HIFIMAN HE400SE both use planar magnetic drivers. These drivers are larger than the dynamic units in the DT 990 PRO. The FiiO model features a 95mm driver for detailed sound, while the HIFIMAN delivers low-distortion stereo imaging for home listening.
What is the weight difference between the DT 990 and the Sennheiser HD 560 S?
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO weighs 9.5 ounces, while the Sennheiser HD 560 S is lighter at 8.48 ounces. Both are over-ear models designed for critical listening. The Sennheiser offers precise audio fidelity with a detachable cable, making it a practical choice for studio work.
Can I get a budget-friendly open-back option?
The Philips Fidelio X2HR serves as a solid budget-friendly open-back alternative. It features a detachable cable and Hi-res certification for wired listening. This model suits listeners who prioritize driver quality and replaceable pads for studio monitoring over wireless convenience or premium build materials.
Is there an option with deep bass for gaming?
The Sennheiser HD 660S2 is ideal for gamers seeking deep bass. It features an open-back design for a spacious soundstage and detailed highs. This model fits users who value comfort during long sessions and prioritize a wired setup for accurate audio reproduction in games.
Do these alternatives require batteries or wireless connection?
No, all listed alternatives are wired headphones. The Beyerdynamic DT 990 PRO, FiiO FT1 Pro, Sennheiser HD 560 S, Philips Fidelio X2HR, Shure SRH440A, Sennheiser HD 660S2, and HIFIMAN HE400SE all use wired connections. This ensures reliable performance without the need for charging or battery management.