Hey, I've been thinking about picking up these headphones to supplement my K-701s, because they don't provide the 'punch' I want from some of my bassier songs. Don't get me wrong, they are great, but the force behind the sound just isn't always there. So I was thinking about the DT 990s because I've read they have nice bass response in reviews and are good all round, but I'm a bit confused about the various levels of impedance they are sold at. I see models at 32, 250 and 600 ohms but I don't know which to get. Is there a difference in sound quality between them? I have a headphone amp for my iPod that should drive the 250 ohm model but I don't understand why difference impedance levels are needed. Also, if anyone could suggest some headphones with nice bass response at a similar price range (I'll consider higher if it's worth the money) that'd be great, too. Thanks in advance.
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- PurpleAngel
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Hey, I've been thinking about picking up these headphones to supplement my K-701s, because they don't provide the 'punch' I want from some of my bassier songs. Don't get me wrong, they are great, but the force behind the sound just isn't always there. So I was thinking about the DT 990s because I've read they have nice bass response in reviews and are good all round, but I'm a bit confused about the various levels of impedance they are sold at. I see models at 32, 250 and 600 ohms but I don't know which to get. Is there a difference in sound quality between them? I have a headphone amp for my iPod that should drive the 250 ohm model but I don't understand why difference impedance levels are needed. Also, if anyone could suggest some headphones with nice bass response at a similar price range (I'll consider higher if it's worth the money) that'd be great, too. Thanks in advance.
Beyerdynamic DT990 series (32, 250, 600-Ohm) do their best when they are working with at least a decent headphone amplifier.
32-Ohm and 600-Ohm (and some 250-Ohm) are the "Premium" series, built for more comfort
The Pro 250-Ohm have a slightly tight clamp over the Premiums, better seal for working in a studio.
600-Ohm usually sounds the best, 250-Ohm second place (both have to use a headphone amplifier).
The 32-Ohm is something that can be sold to someone that will not use a headphone amplifier.
But, using a headphone amplifier with the 32-Ohm brings out it's best.

Beyerdynamic DT990 series (32, 250, 600-Ohm) do their best when they are working with at least a decent headphone amplifier.
32-Ohm and 600-Ohm (and some 250-Ohm) are the "Premium" series, built for more comfort
The Pro 250-Ohm have a slightly tight clamp over the Premiums, better seal for working in a studio.
600-Ohm usually sounds the best, 250-Ohm second place (both have to use a headphone amplifier).
The 32-Ohm is something that can be sold to someone that will not use a headphone amplifier.
But, using a headphone amplifier with the 32-Ohm brings out it's best.
Aha, thanks for the info! With this in mind I think I'll pick up the 600 ohm model since I have a headphone amp. As a side note, if anyone knows of any bassy headphones for a similar kind of price that you could recommend that would be good, so I can look at some other options before taking the plunge with the DT 990s.
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- 2dyclectic
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- Beyerdynamic DT 990
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