Sennheiser HD 490 PRO Open-Back Studio Reference Headphones

The Sennheiser HD 490 PRO is an open-back, over-ear studio reference headphone. Sennheiser says the open design gives a wide, dimensional sound stage and precise localisation. It has a frequency response of 5 Hz to 36,000 Hz (-10 dB) and a 130 ohm impedance.

Key Features

• Open-back, circumaural (over-ear) design
• Frequency response from 5 Hz to 36,000 Hz (-10 dB)
• 38 mm dynamic transducer with neodymium magnets and an ultralight voice coil
• 130 ohm impedance and 105 dB SPL sensitivity at 1 kHz/1 Vrms
• Mixing and producing ear pad sets, both washable and replaceable
• Detachable 1.8 m cable that plugs into either earcup
• Braille-guided L and R earcups and ear pads grooved for glasses wearers
• Open-mesh metal earpiece covers for natural ventilation

Sound Character

Sennheiser tunes the headphone for an uncoloured frequency response across the full spectrum. The low end comes from a cylinder system that Sennheiser intends to be full and clearly defined. The Open-frame Architecture is designed to reduce distortion and resonance, and THD is listed under 0.2% at 1 kHz and 100 dB SPL.

Fit and Comfort

The earcups are angled to position the transducer relative to the ear, and the ergonomics are designed to avoid pressure points. The headphone weighs 260 g without the cable. The open-mesh metal covers allow natural ventilation.

Cable and Accessibility

The detachable 1.8 m cable uses a 3.5 mm jack with a 6.3 mm adapter, and plugs into either earcup. Its coil structure is said to block cable-borne noise. The L and R earcups are Braille-guided, and Sennheiser lists these as patented accessibility features.

Origin and Packaging

Sennheiser engineered the HD 490 PRO in Germany, and the headphone is hand-assembled in Romania. The packaging is FSC-certified.

What's in the box

• HD 490 PRO headphones
• 3.5 mm to 6.3 mm jack adapter
• 1.8 m cable
• Mixing ear pad set
• Producing ear pad set
• Quick guide
• Safety guide