
Sennheiser HD 490 Pro
MusicRadar calls it 'the best overall studio headphone available right now.' Sonarworks rates it 9.4/10, calling it their 'new top pick' that 'dethrones the Sennheiser HD 650.'
Our Verdict
MusicRadar's 'best overall studio headphone available right now.' Sonarworks rates it 9.4/10 as their 'new top pick' that 'dethrones the HD 650.'
Score Breakdown
Pros & Cons
✓ Pros
- •Best overall studio headphone (MusicRadar)
- •Innovative low-frequency cylinder for accurate bass
- •Includes dearVR MIX-SE plugin
- •Two ear pad sets (Mixing and Producing)
- •Lightweight at 260g
✗ Cons
- •130Ω requires decent amplification
- •Open-back limits tracking use
- •Relatively new (less proven)
Specifications
| Driver Size | 38mm neodymium |
| Impedance | 130Ω |
| Frequency Response | 5Hz-36.1kHz |
| Weight | 260g |
| Design | Open-back |
Who Is This For?
Best For
- ✓Home studio mixing
- ✓Budget-conscious professionals
- ✓Those wanting accurate bass
Not For
- ✗Tracking sessions
- ✗Those without headphone amps
Where to Buy
Appears In
Best Wireless Earbuds 2025
Ranked #4
Alternatives to Consider
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