Beyerdynamic has long been a benchmark name in professional audio, and with the DT 990 Pro X, the German manufacturer aims to modernize a classic without compromising its core identity. As part of the brand’s new X series, the 990 Pro X integrates STELLAR.45 drivers and updated styling while maintaining the open-back clarity and iconic sound signature that made the original DT 990 Pro a studio staple. Whether you’re mixing, mastering, or just diving deep into your favorite records, this updated model promises enhanced precision, broader accessibility thanks to its 48-ohm impedance, and the kind of surgical stereo imaging that critical listeners demand. But does this refined evolution truly offer a meaningful upgrade for professionals and audiophiles alike?
What You Get
- DT 990 PRO X
- 3.0M (98 ft.) MINI-XLR-CABLE (MINI STEREO JACK 3.5MM)
- 6 1/4″ ADAPTER (6.35 MM)
- DRAWSTRING BAG
Look & Feel
Beyerdynamic has been touching up their mainline studio headphones with the X series, and that comes with a few improvements. The 990 Pro X keeps the same basic structure of the original with some reshaping. The grille patterns are thicker so you see less of the grey material underneath. The text across the earcups is also changed to Beyerdynamics’ newer scheme, completing a fresher look. You can expect the same padding from past models, with the earcups sporting Beyerdynamic’s classic velour ear pads. If you’re not a fan of the pinch that Beyerdynamic headphones sometimes have, the 990 Pro X doesn’t change that. I like the snug and secure fit of Beyerdynamic’s headphones, so the 990 Pro X felt comfortable for me.
Design
With the X series, Beyerdynamic is implementing its STELLAR.45 drivers into its entire lineup of headphones. This is a dynamic unit that notably reduces the impedance of these headphones significantly. With an impedance of 48 Ohms, you should be able to use the 990 Pro X with any system, including any standard 3.5mm or quarter-inch headphone jack.
Soundstage
With any open-back headphone from Beyerdynamic, you know you can expect a soundstage that will allow for a clear assessment of spatial imaging. The original DT 990 Pro had very accurate positioning, which the Pro X easily replicates. What the Pro X improves on is precision. Instruments are carved out in the mix with almost exact placement in the stereo field.
It feels surgical, while still offering a wide, spacious sound field to get properly immersed in. Nothing floats around while listening through the DT 990 Pro X. Everything is strictly where it should be, as true to the original mix as you can get. There’s tons of space between sound elements, and it shows a bit of live dimension even with its flatter, more linear presentation. Layers of sound fold under and over each other with grace and articulation, especially with sounds that are hard panned to the left and right channels.
Low End
These headphones have never had the most aggressive bass, but for sound mixing and critical listening, this is the exact performance you may need. You get a touch of sub-bass rumble to establish a present foundation, but the timbre of the frequencies is very neutral. It might lack a great impact, but individual bass notes will always sound physical and pointed in the mix. If the bass doesn’t play a huge role in the specific track you’re listening to, chances are the tone will reflect that. The DT 990 Pro X can replicate a large scale of bass when called upon, and you’ll always get a deep and clear response.
Mids
This is where the DT 990 Pro X makes a strong case for being your next studio tool. The midrange is elevated on these headphones, starting with the full resonance of the low-mids emitting a surprising warmth. It’s a tight tone that doesn’t cloud the rest of the sound signature, especially when it comes to the flatter mids that come right after. These frequencies exhibit great balance and have a significant drive to them that pushes everything forward. It makes the DT 990 Pro able to respond with both intimacy and roominess. Details are plentiful and displayed in a manner that is easy to localize. Vocals are slightly lifted up, with harmonies surrounding them with the same level of crisp resolution and accuracy.
Highs
There’s always a caveat with Beyerdynamic headphones, where no matter how much you might enjoy their sound, the highs might still be an obstacle. This is never a huge problem for me personally, but if you’re not a fan of Beyerdynamic’s characteristic sharpness, the DT 990 Pro X might not convince you. The DT 990 Pro X never sounds harsh or piercing, though. It always conveys tight control, even when featuring raw treble that isn’t shy. I like the edge that Beyerdynamic headphones have in their high frequencies, but if you don’t, then the DT 990 Pro X doesn’t make any significant changes that will make them easier to consume.
Summary
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro X proves itself as more than just a cosmetic refresh. Its STELLAR.45 driver implementation brings welcome improvements to detail retrieval, imaging accuracy, and overall efficiency, making it a more versatile tool for today’s studios and home setups. With a finely balanced midrange, a spacious yet controlled soundstage, and just enough low-end presence to ground your mixes, the 990 Pro X is a formidable option for those who demand analytical clarity. While the signature Beyerdynamic treble bite is still present and might deter some listeners, fans of the brand’s articulate highs and uncompromising sonic transparency will feel right at home. For engineers, producers, and audiophiles seeking a reference-grade open-back headphone that doesn’t require a dedicated amplifier, the DT 990 Pro X delivers compelling value and modern studio-ready performance.
The Beyerdynamic DT 990 Pro X is available at Audio46 and Audio46 Express.
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